Right now, I am watching what may be my all-time favorite West Wing episode: Isaac and Ishmael. The story is simple: the White House is on lock-down and a group of high school students are taught about the origins of fundamental Islam by the various characters. The episode was made in response to anti-Muslim sentiments following 9/11.
One of the first stories I heard on the news this morning that Attorney General Holder is thinking of holding some of the Al Quaeda terrorists on trial in Brooklyn. The court house for United States District Court for the Eastern District of New York is mere blocks from my apartment. If you exited my building on the Cadman Plaza West side, crossed the street, and walked through Cadman Plaza Park (which is roughly the width of Eddie's) and you would be at the court house. Heck, I can see the court house from my bedroom (I would have a better view if the trees were chopped down, but whatever).
My mother works mere blocks from the Southern District court house, where Khalid Sheikh Mohammed -the mastermind of the 9/11 attacks- will be tried.
Protectors across the country are protesting these people being put on trial in American courts. One of their fears is that the people in the area will be put in harm's way. Guess what? Me and my family will be in harms way. And I have no problem with it. From the get-go, I have been for putting these terrorists on trial.
A few weeks ago, I asked my conservative Republican father what his thoughts were about the trials. He responded, "we are Americans. That's what we do." I tweeted this line and it was retweeted by the University of New Mexico's College Democrats chapter.
The night of the 9/11 Attacks, President Bush said "America was targeted for attack because we are the brightest beacon for freedom and opportunity in the world. And no one will keep that light from shining." How can we keep that light aglow if we don't give even our enemies due process? Hell, we did so for the Nuremberg Trials.
What makes the Holocaust truly different from what happened on that summer day in September 2001? Both were systematic. The only difference were the races/religions of the majority of the victims and their nationality. Suddenly, are we saying "if you kill millions of Jews, you get a trial; but, if you kill thousands of our people, you get a military tribunal"?
What are these protectors truly protesting? I will be in harm's way, but I'm not complaining. There goes public safety. They don't deserve a trial? Denounce the Nuremberg Trials and then we'll talk. They could get off? A jury of New Yorkers, really?
I know this card has been played once too many, but I think it is just another reason to oppose the Obama Administration.
I want to leave you all with this: (warning: if you are not a Star Wars fan, just stop here) Negelecting any love stories, Anakin Skywalker learns that Emperor Palpatine is the Sith Lord. Anakin says that Palpatine deserves a trial for his betrayal of the Republic. Mace Windu says that Palpatine is too dangerous to be left alive. Would you kill Palpatine because he betrayed the public and openly admits it or would you let him stand trial?
Here's another one: from Thank You For Smoking
I have yet to have heard a philosophical argument about 9/11 (minus Acts of War versus Crimes), but I think this explains the true underlying argument within our hearts.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Sunday, October 4, 2009
Flag Burning
I'll begin by telling you all that, honestly, I do not know how I stand on the issue. I find that burning the American Flag is disrespectful to all for which the United States stands. On the other hand, I also find it to be a legitimate form of protest. My interest in this issue started when the other night, I was watching DVR-ed reruns of The West Wing and the episode began with this clip:
The text of the proposed "Flag Burning Amendment" is
But what does that mean. Researching this issue, I read that some constitutional scholars think that that broad a text could go so far as to preventing tattoos of the flag, flying it upside down, keeping it in the rain, or even virtue images. Yes, the text does say "physical desecration," but according to a report by the 108th Congress said "'desecrate' means deface, damage, or otherwise physically mistreat in a way that the actor knows will seriously offend one or more persons likely to observe or discover his action." Also, do our American Values fall into the confinds of a piece of cloth? But, say, as a bad example (but the first that came to mind), we write a letter of protest of the government and we have a copy of the flag printed on the letter, is that defamatory to the flag? Don't we have a duty to protest our government?
Like I said, I don't know how to stand on flag burning.
The text of the proposed "Flag Burning Amendment" is
"The Congress shall have power to prohibit the physical desecration of the flag of the United States."
But what does that mean. Researching this issue, I read that some constitutional scholars think that that broad a text could go so far as to preventing tattoos of the flag, flying it upside down, keeping it in the rain, or even virtue images. Yes, the text does say "physical desecration," but according to a report by the 108th Congress said "'desecrate' means deface, damage, or otherwise physically mistreat in a way that the actor knows will seriously offend one or more persons likely to observe or discover his action." Also, do our American Values fall into the confinds of a piece of cloth? But, say, as a bad example (but the first that came to mind), we write a letter of protest of the government and we have a copy of the flag printed on the letter, is that defamatory to the flag? Don't we have a duty to protest our government?
Like I said, I don't know how to stand on flag burning.
The Bottom Line with the Green Movement
I'll keep this short. I can understand people not believing in global warming. But, what is so wrong with the general green movement? Is recycling all that bad? We're making more of something by using existing resources. I'm done reading my newspaper and I want others to be able to enjoy newspapers, so I provide the paper to make another paper. Is that so preposterous?
Last time I checked, oil is a non-renewable resource. When we're out of oil, we're done completely. For that reason, wouldn't it beneficial for our future to invest in some other forms of energy (preferably renewable so we won't have a future energy crisis)?
Yes, we will need to change our lifestyles a bit, but is change all that bad when it is for the better?
Answer me this: how can someone call themselves a "fiscal conservative" and not be for green technology?
Last time I checked, oil is a non-renewable resource. When we're out of oil, we're done completely. For that reason, wouldn't it beneficial for our future to invest in some other forms of energy (preferably renewable so we won't have a future energy crisis)?
Yes, we will need to change our lifestyles a bit, but is change all that bad when it is for the better?
Answer me this: how can someone call themselves a "fiscal conservative" and not be for green technology?
Monday, September 14, 2009
How's This for Excessive Spending?
As I am sure we all heard, there was a major tea party in D.C. this past weekend. The protesters complain about taxation and spending. They hate the Stimulus Package. They hate the health care bill. They hate foreign aid. They hate progressive taxes.
They also hate excessive government bureaucracy. I have one piece of excessive spending and government bureaucracy that no one has ever mentioned.
Next time you are hanging out in Downtown D.C., walk to the Department of Agriculture, then walk to the Department of Commerce, then Labor, and continue walking around to all of the cabinet-level departments that everyone forgets. Then, to finish it off, head to the Capitol. You will notice that each bureau has its own police force. I understand that each government office should have some security, but its own police force?
First off, I am curious to know who has the jurisdiction to prosecute someone who the, say Capitol police, arrest.
I do not know why there is a need for this much bureaucracy and excessive spending. But, however, our friends on the Right have never mentioned this. They seem to care more about social spending
Here is my solution to the police force issue: The President nominates a Governmental Police Commissioner that shall be in charge of all police forces within the government (with the exception of special cases such as Military Police forces and the Secret Service) and a joint committee of the House and Senate confirm. The Police Commissioner, then, appoints police chiefs for each department (i.e. Agriculture Department Police Chief). Those Chiefs, then, manage all of the police that are stationed in that department.
My plan gives a direct chain of command and provides necessary resources to other bureaus when needed (like when other police precincts are called to a scene). If there is a fault with my plan, please comment.
Let's see what the so-dubbed 'teabaggers' have to say about this.
They also hate excessive government bureaucracy. I have one piece of excessive spending and government bureaucracy that no one has ever mentioned.
Next time you are hanging out in Downtown D.C., walk to the Department of Agriculture, then walk to the Department of Commerce, then Labor, and continue walking around to all of the cabinet-level departments that everyone forgets. Then, to finish it off, head to the Capitol. You will notice that each bureau has its own police force. I understand that each government office should have some security, but its own police force?
First off, I am curious to know who has the jurisdiction to prosecute someone who the, say Capitol police, arrest.
I do not know why there is a need for this much bureaucracy and excessive spending. But, however, our friends on the Right have never mentioned this. They seem to care more about social spending
Here is my solution to the police force issue: The President nominates a Governmental Police Commissioner that shall be in charge of all police forces within the government (with the exception of special cases such as Military Police forces and the Secret Service) and a joint committee of the House and Senate confirm. The Police Commissioner, then, appoints police chiefs for each department (i.e. Agriculture Department Police Chief). Those Chiefs, then, manage all of the police that are stationed in that department.
My plan gives a direct chain of command and provides necessary resources to other bureaus when needed (like when other police precincts are called to a scene). If there is a fault with my plan, please comment.
Let's see what the so-dubbed 'teabaggers' have to say about this.
Friday, September 11, 2009
No Words Can Be Found: 2 New Yorkers' Stories
So, as a New Yorker, I guess I should chime in about how this day, 8 years ago, was for me.
I, at the time, was living out in Long Island. 9/11/01 was a warm, sunny day. It went on like any other day, I guess.
Throughout the day, however, students were being called out of class and told to bring their belongings. They never returned. No reason was given.
In my science class, as we always did, we opened with a prayer. The teacher made the intention to be to find a cure for all of the problems of the world. I raised a proverbial eyebrow to that. However, the day before, we were praying for young girls in Northern Ireland that were being harassed on their way to school; therefore, I thought we were praying for that (in another way).
Things really got eerie when I heard that my school's only male teacher was seen crying by a classmate. In my twelve-year-old innocence, I thought that the teachers were killing students (I must have been watching too many action movies).
Then, as my class was walking from lunch to recess, another classmate tells me that the principal wanted to see me. "Oh no! I'm next," I thought. With my legs shaking, I walked up to my principal. She told me that there was someone here to see me. I did not know who it could have been.
As it turns out, the person picking me up was, in fact, three people -a close friend, his mother (also a friend of my mother), and his little sister. My friend's mother told me that my mom had something to talk to me about. I, for some reason, thought that it was related to my asthma. I was told to gather up my belongings to leave with them. I was unsure if I would be gone for the rest or the day or not (obviously, I wished that would be the case). I went to my homeroom and got my belongings and we left.
As we walked to the parking lot, my friend told me "You know the World Trade Center?"
I instantly was reminded of when me, my brother, his wife, his two sons, and my father went to the observation deck a few years prior. "Yeah," I responded.
"Well, it's gone."
Huh? I thought to myself. I was told what happened by my friend and his mother.
We went to my house to get some clothes together just in case I would need to spend the night. I ended up staying with my friend and his family at their house, across town, for a few hours while my parents were working on getting themselves home.
When I heard about the attacks on the Pentagon and the World Trade Center, I could not help but think of how eerily close this was to scenes in a video game I was playing at the time - "Red Alert 2." That video game, a few days later, was banned by some stores.
When my family finally regrouped, I went into the guest bedroom in my house and wept into bed, wishing that this was just some nightmare. I ended up falling asleep for about 45 minutes. When I awoke, I realized that the nightmare was a reality.
While this is my story of how a part of my innocence was shattered that day, the true heroism of September 11th is best told through the experience my mother went through that day.
My mom was a partner in a law firm. Her office was a few blocks away from Grand Central Terminal. On 9/11, she had court in Brooklyn. While she was leaving her office, a lawyer from another firm located on that floor told her that a plane just crashed into the World Trade Center. My mother's father's best friend was the Executive Director of Catholic Relief Services and his office was hit when a plane crashed into the Empire State Building 50 years prior; so, my mom thought nothing of it.
She got on the Lexington Avenue Line (4/5/6) subway and took it downtown and under the East River to Borough Hall in Brooklyn. The Lexington Avenue Line, it should be noted, travels under the World Trade Center. Right as the second plane hit, my mom was only feet below.
She got to Brooklyn Supreme Court and saw her co-counsel and opposing-counsel by the court steps. She was told that another plane hit. She did not need to be told anything else.
Now, the question was where she would go. Mass transit was suspended. She couldn't get a cab. She had family in the Flatbush section of Brooklyn, so she headed that way -a seven mile walk. She realized that she would need water. She went to a bodega and bought a bottle.
Her walk, to this day, is the time she was most proud to be a New Yorker. New Yorkers are thought to be mean-hearted; truly, we're anything but. In 2006, New York was named the most polite city in the world. We may not say "good morning" to everyone we pass, but if someone needs directions or drops something, we help. People were lending cell phones so people could call loved ones, people comforted each other. My mom, in fact, gave away about half of her water.
Eventually, my mom got to her cousin's house and was able to get a taxi to the city line, where my father (who merely walked and then waited at Penn Station for mass transit to restart in order to pick me up and head home) picked her up.
One of my favorite movies is Spider-Man. My favorite scene is when Spider-Man is trying to save a Roosevelt Island tram filled with kids from the Green Goblin. People crowed onto the Queensboro Bridge, which runs parallel to the tram and began to throw debris at the Green Goblin in order to hinder him attacking Spider-Man as he saved the kids. One man says that they are all New Yorkers and "when you mess with one of us, you mess with all of us." That is what 9/11 meant to every New Yorker. At first, it did not seem like an attack on America, but on New York. But, every New Yorker, then, joined together for the good of all. We all knew in our hearts: "United we stand, divided we fall.
"
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Yet Another 'Scandal?'
Oh boy! Here we go again with the Cardinal Newman Society. Their latest 'scandal' is how Georgetown University giving an honorary doctorate to the President of the AFL-CIO (whom is for gay marriage
What I am going to say is my interpretation and by no means am I speaking for any University.
When a school has a speaker come, it is not always an endorsement of the speaker. Go google "define: school" and you will see that the top hit is "an educational institution." Schools have speakers come to inform pupils on a subject or way of thinking. When schools give some honor to a speaker, again it may not be an endorsement, but more an endorsement of the role the person plays in society and/or the education of others.
A teacher would be failing if he or she never presented other ways to attack a problem or other schools of thought. Think of this math problem:
Was either solution better than the other? No, they were the same. The only difference was the approach made to finding the solution.
Has it ever occurred to groups like the Cardinal Newman Society that, perhaps, by taking a different education route, it will come to the same result? Perhaps, taking the "wrong" route will lead people who do not adhere to take a route that, when properly traversed, will get the person to the same place. You can look at a road map right now and see that there are more than one way to get from point A to point B; one may be a longer and more difficult route, but, the rewards are the same in the end.
Let me give you an example from my life: I, like most people, at one point, doubted God's existence. However, I had (and still have) an interest in the paranormal (which is spoken poorly upon in the Old Testament). During some free research, years ago, I found confirmed reports of demonic possessions by impartial parties. I realized that if there was an evil force, then there would have to be a good force because, unless there was some type of competition, the evil force would have no reason to posses others. That good force must be God.
Even if a person does not make it to the end of the path and nothing changes, there was no harm nor foul based upon the preliminary education.
Notice how I did not bring up how the Catholic Church happens to be vehemently pro-labor union nor the response from Georgetown?
What I am going to say is my interpretation and by no means am I speaking for any University.
When a school has a speaker come, it is not always an endorsement of the speaker. Go google "define: school" and you will see that the top hit is "an educational institution." Schools have speakers come to inform pupils on a subject or way of thinking. When schools give some honor to a speaker, again it may not be an endorsement, but more an endorsement of the role the person plays in society and/or the education of others.
A teacher would be failing if he or she never presented other ways to attack a problem or other schools of thought. Think of this math problem:
| 2x + 4 = 4 | |
| (2x)/2 + (4/2) = 4/2 | 2x + 4 - 4 = 4 - 4 |
| x + 2 = 2 | 2x = 0 |
| x + 2 - 2 = 2 - 2 | 2x = 0 / 2 |
| x = 0 | x = 0 |
Was either solution better than the other? No, they were the same. The only difference was the approach made to finding the solution.
Has it ever occurred to groups like the Cardinal Newman Society that, perhaps, by taking a different education route, it will come to the same result? Perhaps, taking the "wrong" route will lead people who do not adhere to take a route that, when properly traversed, will get the person to the same place. You can look at a road map right now and see that there are more than one way to get from point A to point B; one may be a longer and more difficult route, but, the rewards are the same in the end.
Let me give you an example from my life: I, like most people, at one point, doubted God's existence. However, I had (and still have) an interest in the paranormal (which is spoken poorly upon in the Old Testament). During some free research, years ago, I found confirmed reports of demonic possessions by impartial parties. I realized that if there was an evil force, then there would have to be a good force because, unless there was some type of competition, the evil force would have no reason to posses others. That good force must be God.
Even if a person does not make it to the end of the path and nothing changes, there was no harm nor foul based upon the preliminary education.
Notice how I did not bring up how the Catholic Church happens to be vehemently pro-labor union nor the response from Georgetown?
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Thank You Teddy!
I guess someone has to chime-in about the late Senator Edward "Ted" Kennedy.
There is nothing that I can say that has not yet been said by any of the talking heads in the media about his life, career, strength, courage... well, you get the point.
Instead, I will tell you a story. One year ago yesterday, was the day I became a supporter of then-Senator Barack Obama. I can tell you exactly where I was: sitting in an over-sized chair that my family has dubbed "The Death Chair" in my living room in my summer house. My mother was sitting adjacent to me on the sofa. The two of us were watching the Democratic National Convention.
As many of you may know, I was a strong Hillary Clinton supporter. After Sen. Obama received enough votes to be the Democratic nominee, I still was still weary to support him. I found the Senator to be inexperienced and disingenuous. Unless he chose then-Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton to be his running-mate (which I thought to be a winning ticket), I was planning on voting for Ralph Nader. I still had my qualms, however, even after then-Senator Joseph Biden was chosen to be the Democratic Vice Presidential Nominee.
Being the good Democrat that I am, I watched the Convention religiously. I openly cheered when some of my favorite Senators, Congressmen, and Governors took the podium to give their two cents.
My mother and I were curious if Senator Kennedy would make an appearance at the Convention. The Convention was in Denver and he was undergoing treatment in Massachusetts. He was only diagnosed 2 months prior, there is no way he could make it out there, my mother and I thought.
Then, at around 9:15 PM EST, the announcer introduced Caroline Kennedy and we knew who was coming next: her Uncle Ted.
Regardless of all of the treatment he went through, he looked as healthy and as strong as ever. If I remember correctly, when Sen. Kennedy took the stage, I myself stood up and cheered in my living room.
It was at 9:33, when Sen. Kennedy said
At 9:34 P.M. EST on August 25, 2008, I re-united with my party in a nominee for President.
Within the next few days, my mother (who was planning on writing-in Senator Clinton) joined the Obama band-wagon; and, a few days after that, my (paleo-conservative) Republican father (a McCain supporter) moved to be a supporter of Senator Obama (though the initial spark for the change in his vote was due to a certain unqualified Vice Presidential nominee that shall remain anonymous). For the next two months until the election, my family, with each passing day, became more and more supportive of the Democratic Nominee for President.
On November 4, 2008, I was watching the returns with my parents. The number of states with votes "too close to call" grew ever larger. It was around 10:30 PM that my parents went to bed. I had work the next day, but had no obligation to a time-frame when which to arrive. I budgeted myself until 1 AM to stay awake.
I figured that the returns would go on until 1 in the morning. So, I put on a television show that I had recorded from earlier that evening - 90210. (Yes, I watch 90210. I have a thing for teen dramas -I don't know why- and the star -Shenae Grimes- is my celebrity crush.) I get about 10 minutes into the show, when at 11 PM, from the back of my ear, I hear the voice of Charlie Gibson originating from my parent's bedroom; "For the first time in American History, the country will have an African-American President." To say that I started screaming would be an understatement (I have little doubt that the three young children in the apartment next-door to mine woke-up).
When I heard the news that I helped change (in more ways than one) come to this nation, I felt overly proud (in a way that words will never describe). And, I, for one, owe that all to the late Senator Edward Kennedy.
Thank You "Teddy!" May you rest in peace.
There is nothing that I can say that has not yet been said by any of the talking heads in the media about his life, career, strength, courage... well, you get the point.
Instead, I will tell you a story. One year ago yesterday, was the day I became a supporter of then-Senator Barack Obama. I can tell you exactly where I was: sitting in an over-sized chair that my family has dubbed "The Death Chair" in my living room in my summer house. My mother was sitting adjacent to me on the sofa. The two of us were watching the Democratic National Convention.
As many of you may know, I was a strong Hillary Clinton supporter. After Sen. Obama received enough votes to be the Democratic nominee, I still was still weary to support him. I found the Senator to be inexperienced and disingenuous. Unless he chose then-Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton to be his running-mate (which I thought to be a winning ticket), I was planning on voting for Ralph Nader. I still had my qualms, however, even after then-Senator Joseph Biden was chosen to be the Democratic Vice Presidential Nominee.
Being the good Democrat that I am, I watched the Convention religiously. I openly cheered when some of my favorite Senators, Congressmen, and Governors took the podium to give their two cents.
My mother and I were curious if Senator Kennedy would make an appearance at the Convention. The Convention was in Denver and he was undergoing treatment in Massachusetts. He was only diagnosed 2 months prior, there is no way he could make it out there, my mother and I thought.
Then, at around 9:15 PM EST, the announcer introduced Caroline Kennedy and we knew who was coming next: her Uncle Ted.
Regardless of all of the treatment he went through, he looked as healthy and as strong as ever. If I remember correctly, when Sen. Kennedy took the stage, I myself stood up and cheered in my living room.
It was at 9:33, when Sen. Kennedy said
For me this is a season of hope - new hope for a justice and fair prosperity for the many, and not just for the few - new hope.Within those two minutes, in which he said those four, short paragraphs, I became a supporter of Barack Obama for President of the United States. Senator Edward Kennedy, a man I, in many ways, idolized, told me that two of the most important issues for me -universal health care and gay rights- would be accomplished under an Obama presidency. I told myself that if Senator Kennedy, someone with whom I shared a dream for America, knew that this was the right person for the job of President of the United States, then he was my nominee.
And this is the cause of my life - new hope that we will break the old gridlock and guarantee that every American - north, south, east, west, young, old - will have decent, quality health care as a fundamental right and not a privilege!
We can meet these challenges with Barack Obama. Yes, we can, and finally, yes, we will!
Barack Obama will close the book on the old politics of race and gender and group against group and straight against gay.
At 9:34 P.M. EST on August 25, 2008, I re-united with my party in a nominee for President.
Within the next few days, my mother (who was planning on writing-in Senator Clinton) joined the Obama band-wagon; and, a few days after that, my (paleo-conservative) Republican father (a McCain supporter) moved to be a supporter of Senator Obama (though the initial spark for the change in his vote was due to a certain unqualified Vice Presidential nominee that shall remain anonymous). For the next two months until the election, my family, with each passing day, became more and more supportive of the Democratic Nominee for President.
On November 4, 2008, I was watching the returns with my parents. The number of states with votes "too close to call" grew ever larger. It was around 10:30 PM that my parents went to bed. I had work the next day, but had no obligation to a time-frame when which to arrive. I budgeted myself until 1 AM to stay awake.
I figured that the returns would go on until 1 in the morning. So, I put on a television show that I had recorded from earlier that evening - 90210. (Yes, I watch 90210. I have a thing for teen dramas -I don't know why- and the star -Shenae Grimes- is my celebrity crush.) I get about 10 minutes into the show, when at 11 PM, from the back of my ear, I hear the voice of Charlie Gibson originating from my parent's bedroom; "For the first time in American History, the country will have an African-American President." To say that I started screaming would be an understatement (I have little doubt that the three young children in the apartment next-door to mine woke-up).
When I heard the news that I helped change (in more ways than one) come to this nation, I felt overly proud (in a way that words will never describe). And, I, for one, owe that all to the late Senator Edward Kennedy.
Thank You "Teddy!" May you rest in peace.
Sunday, August 16, 2009
There's Just No Reasoning With Some People
Hello all,
With all the media attention they're getting (thanks, Lou Dobbs), the "birthers" do not seem to be going away - to the chagrin of reasonable Americans. I feel that the fact that a movement so nonsensical could gain a following in our country is quite depressing. The desire to oust a Democratic President driven on changing America for the better is driving some to make some outrageous claims. The worst part of this whole debacle is that there are Republicans in Congress who have recently stated they're "not sure" if the President was born in Hawaii. Perhaps it is party politics, but more likely it is to appease the crazies they represent. There should always be strife and disagreement in politics, but such strife and disagreement must always be strongly based in reality.
We can only hope that the media will stop their incessant (though sometimes entertaining) coverage of these nitwits. To paraphrase Mr. Bill Maher, the "birther" controversy is "not a conflict between Democrats and Republicans. It is one between sentient beings and lizard people."
Democratically yours,
RP
P.S. - Listen to their European dentist/lawyer/real-estate agent for a good laugh.
With all the media attention they're getting (thanks, Lou Dobbs), the "birthers" do not seem to be going away - to the chagrin of reasonable Americans. I feel that the fact that a movement so nonsensical could gain a following in our country is quite depressing. The desire to oust a Democratic President driven on changing America for the better is driving some to make some outrageous claims. The worst part of this whole debacle is that there are Republicans in Congress who have recently stated they're "not sure" if the President was born in Hawaii. Perhaps it is party politics, but more likely it is to appease the crazies they represent. There should always be strife and disagreement in politics, but such strife and disagreement must always be strongly based in reality.
We can only hope that the media will stop their incessant (though sometimes entertaining) coverage of these nitwits. To paraphrase Mr. Bill Maher, the "birther" controversy is "not a conflict between Democrats and Republicans. It is one between sentient beings and lizard people."
Democratically yours,
RP
P.S. - Listen to their European dentist/lawyer/real-estate agent for a good laugh.
Saturday, August 8, 2009
The Hypocrisy of Anti-Health Care Reform
Below is a clip from CNN Newsroom with Rick Sanchez. It has an interview with Rick Scott, Chairman of Conservatives for Patient's Rights. Just watch it and you will see how this is proof that we need health care reform since Scott openly admits the corruption of health insurance companies.
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Why I Do Not Get Tea Parties
Today is the NYC Tea Party and a few of my republican friends are going. The tag line for it is that we have to curb wasteful spending. I'm cool with that, but, as I wrote on my Twitter last night, I wanted to know what spending is bad (I asked for line numbers). As of this writing I had not gotten a response. The reason why there was so much opposition to the clean energy bill that was passed last week is the 600 page porkbarrell spending amendment. No one I personally know read the bill. That's fine, but don't go on attacking something with which you haven't familiarized yourself.
The reason for porkbarrell spending is (wait for it) to get re-elected. Legislators know that if they do not help their constituents, they won't be re-elected (shocking, huh).
The Federal Budget for Fiscal Year 2008 included multimillion dollar spending (I forget the real number, but it was in the $100 million range) for the Army Corps of Engineers to drudge the Jones Inlet in New York. Who sponsored this legislation? Peter King (R-NY). The Jones Inlet is the collection of towns across the channel from Jones Beach, NY which consists of Lido Beach and Point Lookout. The total year-round residents total up to about 3000 (the summertime is double that) -the figures were estimated from the 2000 census. These two towns are beach communities.
Why do I give this example? Because I live in this area in the summer. In 2006, after 10 days of straight rain and a high tide, my basement was flooded (as well as just about everyone else's in the area). If it wasn't for the high tide and the ever growing coastal erosion, the septic systems would have brought the water down to the beach. It does not take a structural engineer to know that this flooding could have increased the possibility of mold growing as well as hurt the structural integrity of the houses. How was this solved? We got more sand on the beach.
If someone from, say Idaho, read the provision in the 2008 Budget and saw that millions of tax dollars are going to small beach communities, they would likely get rather angry.
Legislators know that 'bringing home the pork' will remind their constituents that the person that legislator got their friend employed at the new post office; their brother got his Social Security check; they protected the structural integrity of his house.
Is there wasteful spending? Yes. But not all spending is bad. Some actually helps the locals of that district. Unless you are from that area and understand the way of life there, you cannot be so critical of porkbarrell spending.
I will leave you with a quote from my NYC Politics professor from last night:
"Health Care reform will cost $1 Trillion over 10 years, but, in 6 months, we have given $1 Trillion to the banks."
The reason for porkbarrell spending is (wait for it) to get re-elected. Legislators know that if they do not help their constituents, they won't be re-elected (shocking, huh).
The Federal Budget for Fiscal Year 2008 included multimillion dollar spending (I forget the real number, but it was in the $100 million range) for the Army Corps of Engineers to drudge the Jones Inlet in New York. Who sponsored this legislation? Peter King (R-NY). The Jones Inlet is the collection of towns across the channel from Jones Beach, NY which consists of Lido Beach and Point Lookout. The total year-round residents total up to about 3000 (the summertime is double that) -the figures were estimated from the 2000 census. These two towns are beach communities.
Why do I give this example? Because I live in this area in the summer. In 2006, after 10 days of straight rain and a high tide, my basement was flooded (as well as just about everyone else's in the area). If it wasn't for the high tide and the ever growing coastal erosion, the septic systems would have brought the water down to the beach. It does not take a structural engineer to know that this flooding could have increased the possibility of mold growing as well as hurt the structural integrity of the houses. How was this solved? We got more sand on the beach.
If someone from, say Idaho, read the provision in the 2008 Budget and saw that millions of tax dollars are going to small beach communities, they would likely get rather angry.
Legislators know that 'bringing home the pork' will remind their constituents that the person that legislator got their friend employed at the new post office; their brother got his Social Security check; they protected the structural integrity of his house.
Is there wasteful spending? Yes. But not all spending is bad. Some actually helps the locals of that district. Unless you are from that area and understand the way of life there, you cannot be so critical of porkbarrell spending.
I will leave you with a quote from my NYC Politics professor from last night:
"Health Care reform will cost $1 Trillion over 10 years, but, in 6 months, we have given $1 Trillion to the banks."
Sunday, June 28, 2009
An Open Question
A few days ago, Katie Naranjo and Jamarr Brown launched their campaign website for President and Vice President, respectively, of College Democrats of America. The CDA Constitution requires that the President and Vice President be of opposite sexes?. My question is: what happens if one of the two is transgendered/transsexual? The Democratic Party is supposed to support people of any sexuality, but how do we as a party determine a person's sex?
Friday, June 12, 2009
In coalition with PSJ and Anti-War
If you are around the Bronx, there is a protest taking place tomorrow at Fordham Road. This is happening in response to Senator Pedro Espada's switch to the Republican Party that is really make things crazy in the Bronx political scene. If you are around tomorrow, this is an important thing to be involved in as a member of the community.
In front of Senator Espada's empty "District Office"
By joining with the Senate Republicans, Espada ensures the defeat of an important bill that would have protected tenants and affordable housing in New York!
Bronx tenants are likely to face serious challenges finding stable, safe, and affordable housing. Recently, Bronx tenants and their allies had been hopeful that a Democratic controlled State Senate would pass important legislation that would help protect tenants and preserve affordable apartments. This legislation would have been especially important in Senator Espada's district, which has 77,000 rent-regulated apartments, the majority of which are occupied by Latino and working class families.
In handing the State Senate over to Republican Leadership, Pedro Espada has directly halted legislation, which would have protected all 77,000 of those rent regulated apartments in his district, and all over New York City.
Tenants and other constituents of Senator Espada's district are also angry by the disregard that their Senator has shown them by failing to open an office in his district where he can offer services to the constituents he claims to represent. This is particularly offensive, given that it is well known that Senator Espada lives in the wealthy suburb of Mamaroneck, far outside of his Bronx district.
Tenants are offended by the fact the Pedro Espada is falsely claiming to
act in the name of his constituents and of Latino empowerment. Instead of fighting to pass legislation to support his tenant-heavy district, he
fought to take power for himself!
Protest Senator Pedro Espada's
Betrayal of Bronx Residents
Friday, June 12, at 11:30 a.m.
400 E. Fordham Road
Betrayal of Bronx Residents
Friday, June 12, at 11:30 a.m.
400 E. Fordham Road
In front of Senator Espada's empty "District Office"
By joining with the Senate Republicans, Espada ensures the defeat of an important bill that would have protected tenants and affordable housing in New York!
Bronx tenants are likely to face serious challenges finding stable, safe, and affordable housing. Recently, Bronx tenants and their allies had been hopeful that a Democratic controlled State Senate would pass important legislation that would help protect tenants and preserve affordable apartments. This legislation would have been especially important in Senator Espada's district, which has 77,000 rent-regulated apartments, the majority of which are occupied by Latino and working class families.
In handing the State Senate over to Republican Leadership, Pedro Espada has directly halted legislation, which would have protected all 77,000 of those rent regulated apartments in his district, and all over New York City.
Tenants and other constituents of Senator Espada's district are also angry by the disregard that their Senator has shown them by failing to open an office in his district where he can offer services to the constituents he claims to represent. This is particularly offensive, given that it is well known that Senator Espada lives in the wealthy suburb of Mamaroneck, far outside of his Bronx district.
Tenants are offended by the fact the Pedro Espada is falsely claiming to
act in the name of his constituents and of Latino empowerment. Instead of fighting to pass legislation to support his tenant-heavy district, he
fought to take power for himself!
Saturday, June 6, 2009
Register for the 2009 CDA National Convention!
Hey College Dems!
If your haven't registered for this year's College Democrats of America Convention from July 23-26th in Washington, DC, you're in luck! The deadline for early registration--only $50-- has been extended through June 15th.
This year's convention will feature the election of the new CDA executive board, several political trainings, speakers from across the Democratic political world, and even a trip to a Nationals' baseball game! Whether you're already interning in Washington or coming from across the country, this year's CDA Convention is a great opportunity to get more involved in Democratic politics and meet some amazing people!
Remember, early registration lasts until June 14th-- so check out collegedems.com right now and click on the right side "CDA Convention 2009" tab to register, check out the agenda, and read the FAQs.
See you there!!
If your haven't registered for this year's College Democrats of America Convention from July 23-26th in Washington, DC, you're in luck! The deadline for early registration--only $50-- has been extended through June 15th.
This year's convention will feature the election of the new CDA executive board, several political trainings, speakers from across the Democratic political world, and even a trip to a Nationals' baseball game! Whether you're already interning in Washington or coming from across the country, this year's CDA Convention is a great opportunity to get more involved in Democratic politics and meet some amazing people!
Remember, early registration lasts until June 14th-- so check out collegedems.com right now and click on the right side "CDA Convention 2009" tab to register, check out the agenda, and read the FAQs.
See you there!!
Thursday, June 4, 2009
College Dems: Help out on a NYC citywide campaign this summer!
Dear Democrats:
If you want to volunteer or intern on this exciting campaign, please contact the campaign by emailing Josh at jlopez@melindakatzforny.com . Also, if you know anyone who may also be willing to help, please do not hesitate to invite them to be a part of the campaign and give them Josh's contact information. To learn more about Melinda Katz, visit her website at http://melindakatzforny.com
--
College Democrats of Fordham University
http://www.fordham.edu/democrats
The campaign season this year is heating up, and Democrats in New York need your help. If you're registered to vote in New York City, here's your chance to get involved in competitive races, build up your resume with on-the-ground experience on some of the largest elections in the country this year, and help Democrats get on the ballot in local elections. We are looking for campaign workers who would enjoy being a part of something fun and exciting, and at the same time bring commitment, dedication, and eagerness to political campaigns.
As you may already know, this time of the campaign cycle is crucial for candidates in citywide elections. In order to get on the ballot, a candidate must first collect a specific number of petition signatures by a given deadline. We need your help getting signatures. The first two weeks of petitioning are extremely important, and starting Tuesday, June 9th, candidates for every office in the city will begin collecting these signatures.
One candidates in particular is looking towards College Democrats in order to help collect petitions: Melinda Katz
The Melinda Katz for Comptroller campaign is offering concerned citizens and voters a wonderful opportunity to join and contribute to an elite team of highly talented individuals who are working together to help the candidate become New York City Comptroller. As Land Use Chair in the New York City Council, Melinda funded 90,000 units of affordable housing, protected more than 7,500 New York City blocks in historic neighborhoods from development, built new schools in all five boroughs of New York City and created tens of thousands of jobs.
Now Melinda is running for New York City Comptroller, where she will use the resources of that office to guarantee Federal stimulus dollars free up credit and create jobs, as opposed to fattening the bonuses of Wall Street executives. For local companies that are profitable but struggling under unsustainable debt racked up in periods of easy credit, she will tap pension funds as a source of capital while restructure their balance sheets in order to return them to viability.
If you want to volunteer or intern on this exciting campaign, please contact the campaign by emailing Josh at jlopez@melindakatzforny.com . Also, if you know anyone who may also be willing to help, please do not hesitate to invite them to be a part of the campaign and give them Josh's contact information.
--
College Democrats of Fordham University
http://www.fordham.edu/democrats
If you're in the NYC
Hello All-
Happy Summer everyone!
I hope everyone is off to a restful vacation. Firstly, I wanted to thank you for all of your work this past school year. Fordham Dems has really improved and it's all due to you. We have some amazing things planned for next semester including a big speaker of our own.
In the meantime, I wanted to let you know of the volunteer opportunties for those of you in the New York City region. As you know from my various plugs throughout the semesters, I work for Speaker Quinn of the New York City Council. She is currently running for relection in her district (Manhattan 3rd). If you have some free time and would like some campaign experience with some wonderful people, please think about the Quinn 2009 campaign. A couple of us helped out at an event a few weeks ago and they really like Fordham students and are completely flexible with days and times. If you are interested, you can email Nick at nwrolf@gmail.com. Hope to see you there. Have a great summer and please keep in touch!
The campaign will be marching in the Queens Pride parade this Sunday, information is below:THIS SUNDAY, JUNE 7th
PLEASE MARCH WITH
NYC COUNCIL SPEAKER CHRISTINE C. QUINN
AND
THE MEMBERS OF THE NEW YORK CITY COUNCIL
AT THE
2009 QUEENS PRIDE MARCH
Please join Speaker Christine C. Quinn in celebrating Queens Pride 2009!
Where: The parade starts at 89th Street and 37th Avenue and goes down 37th Avenue, ending at 75th Street.
When: Sunday, June 7, 2009 @ 11:00 a.m.
March begins: 12:00 p.m. sharp
RSVP: Visit the following web site to RSVP: http://www.council.nyc.gov/events. Or call Erik Bottcher at (212) 788-5646.
Please meet us at 11:00 a.m. at 89th Street and 37th Avenue. Erik Bottcher will be reachable on his cell phone at (917) 406-0269.
Directions
By public transportation, take the #7 subway train to the "74th Street - Broadway" station. The parade starting point is one block from the subway.
By car, the nearest expressway is the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway. From either direction, you get off at the "Broadway/Roosevelt Ave" exit ramp. Then drive up Broadway 3 blocks to the intersection of 37th Road & Broadway to reach the festival. The parade route is one block away from the festival on 37th Avenue between 75th and 89th Streets
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Personality Attacks
The other day, I came across an acquaintance's Facebook account. I saw the this person was a member of a group for people that cannot stand Bono. I looked at the group's message board and there were no explanations of why they dislike the rockstar. The closest to a reason I ever came across was a dislike of his demeanor. (One person quipped "what is the difference between God and Bono? God does not go around acting like Bono.") I do not believe that that is an adequate reason to hate a person.
Why do I tell this story? I have noticed this same criticism in politics (on both sides of the aisle). Critics of individual politicians typically do not criticize policies (though that happens often enough); instead, they criticize how they play to the crowds. People will say that they act too much like a celebrity, become too emotional, act too professional, act too informal, and so on. However, recall that people act differently in different situations (for example: talking to your best friend versus talking to a supervisor). Not to mention, everybody's personality is different. When people criticize personalities, they are, in fact, making character attacks. Unfortunately, all is fair in love, war, and politics.
Why do I tell this story? I have noticed this same criticism in politics (on both sides of the aisle). Critics of individual politicians typically do not criticize policies (though that happens often enough); instead, they criticize how they play to the crowds. People will say that they act too much like a celebrity, become too emotional, act too professional, act too informal, and so on. However, recall that people act differently in different situations (for example: talking to your best friend versus talking to a supervisor). Not to mention, everybody's personality is different. When people criticize personalities, they are, in fact, making character attacks. Unfortunately, all is fair in love, war, and politics.
Friday, May 29, 2009
College Democrats of America National Convention
Hi Dems,
This summer, the national College Democrats of America Conference is being held in Washington, D.C. from July 23 - 26. New York is a leading contender for State Federation of the Year so we want to get AS MANY New Yorker's down to DC as we possibly can.
If you are interested in attending, you can register at www.collegedems.com. Registration is $50 if you sign up BEFORE MAY 31!! After May 31, registration goes up to $65.
Here is a link to the fb event page for convention --> http://www.facebook.com/events.php?ref=sb#/event.php?eid=77439029024
Hope to see everyone there. Feel free to message me back if you have any questions
Ian
President, CDNY
ian.rivera@collegedemsny.com
This summer, the national College Democrats of America Conference is being held in Washington, D.C. from July 23 - 26. New York is a leading contender for State Federation of the Year so we want to get AS MANY New Yorker's down to DC as we possibly can.
If you are interested in attending, you can register at www.collegedems.com. Registration is $50 if you sign up BEFORE MAY 31!! After May 31, registration goes up to $65.
Here is a link to the fb event page for convention --> http://www.facebook.com/events.php?ref=sb#/event.php?eid=77439029024
Hope to see everyone there. Feel free to message me back if you have any questions
Ian
President, CDNY
ian.rivera@collegedemsny.com
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Ethnicity on the Courts
Most people have heard Judge Sonia Sonomayor's statement about reading the law as a Latina versus a [white] man. This has been construed to mean that she will legislate from the bench (because of, also, a butchered joke) and is a reverse racist.
It is impossible not to be an impartial judge. I know that that is a radical thing to say, but if you think about it, it is not that absurd. Everyone is different. We all have biases. We all have inclinations. We all see things differently than everyone else based on our intelligence, upbringing, culture, race, religion, experiences, affiliations, and etcetera. So, of course, we will use our individuality in deciding.
Last night, on Anderson Cooper 360, John King asked that if a judicial nominee said that he would read the law in terms of a white man, would the person be confirmed. The politico said that no judicial nominee would have a history of such statements. Before I went to sleep last night, I thought about this topic. If you say "White man," an image of some type of dominance comes to mind. Similarly, if you say "black man," one would think of someone who was once marginalized. There are so many stereotypes that this plays for:
I know that this sounds bigoted, but realize that society has somehow (I'm no sociologist, so I don't know how) implanted these thoughts in our heads. Of course, however, most people know that these stereotypes are not true. What I think Judge Sonomayor was meaning by her statement was merely an embrace of her ethnic background. Embracing one's heritage is nothing of which to be ashamed. Tell me, what high school did not have an Asian-American club, an African-American club, an Irish-American club, a Polish-American club (you get the point)?
It is impossible not to be an impartial judge. I know that that is a radical thing to say, but if you think about it, it is not that absurd. Everyone is different. We all have biases. We all have inclinations. We all see things differently than everyone else based on our intelligence, upbringing, culture, race, religion, experiences, affiliations, and etcetera. So, of course, we will use our individuality in deciding.
Last night, on Anderson Cooper 360, John King asked that if a judicial nominee said that he would read the law in terms of a white man, would the person be confirmed. The politico said that no judicial nominee would have a history of such statements. Before I went to sleep last night, I thought about this topic. If you say "White man," an image of some type of dominance comes to mind. Similarly, if you say "black man," one would think of someone who was once marginalized. There are so many stereotypes that this plays for:
- Latino
- lazy
- blond
- dumb
- Irish
- drinker
- Asian
- good at math
- red-head
- angry
- southern
- racist
- north-easterner
- conceited
- person wearing glasses
- smart
I know that this sounds bigoted, but realize that society has somehow (I'm no sociologist, so I don't know how) implanted these thoughts in our heads. Of course, however, most people know that these stereotypes are not true. What I think Judge Sonomayor was meaning by her statement was merely an embrace of her ethnic background. Embracing one's heritage is nothing of which to be ashamed. Tell me, what high school did not have an Asian-American club, an African-American club, an Irish-American club, a Polish-American club (you get the point)?
The Contract of Marriage
Currently, I am watching Larry King. George Takei and his husband are discussing the recent California Supreme Court ruling on Prop 8. They made a good point, though, for over 20 years, they sleep in the same bed and kiss each other good night, it makes the biggest difference in the world on being married. They said that most would not understand the difference between personal commitment and marriage, but I have a good analogy: think of the difference between a pact that is sealed by a hand shake versus one that is done by a legally notarized contract -the later is simply a deeper bond. Though (at least in the State of New York) oral contracts can be legally binding, they are not as significant as a written document. Similarly, making a deal between loved ones verses one with the whole society makes a world of difference.
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Catholics vs Obama
Oh, how this story seems to keep on playing endlessly. I just saw this video:
For those of you that have been living on a rock for the past two months, conservative Catholics are angry that President Obama is speaking at Notre Dame. Why? Because he is 'pro-abortion.' First off, NO ONE IS PRO-ABORTION! Being pro-choice means that the decision is not up to you, but up to the decider. Morality is a personal thing (anyone that has ever read Kant would know that); I have personal morals that some people may not follow (like, how I make it my duty to always wish friends 'Happy Birthday' -something that not everyone can agree with or could follow). That duty can only be a moral if everyone can follow it. Well, on the issue of abortion, to begin this argument, only women can choose that.
Second off, these people that oppose Obama speaking never seemed to have a problem with conservative speakers that are -if you weigh it- more opposed to Catholic Social Teaching. (I am working on a more extensive blog post on that very topic, which is forthcoming.) The argument is that since Obama is pro-choice he is opposed to fundamental Catholic beliefs. Maybe one, but other issues are just as heavily weighted. Health care, environment, anti-war labor, death penalty, and poverty -all of these are necessary to be consistently pro-life. So, Obama who is wrong on one issue suddenly has more moral baggage than Newt Gingrich (whom spoke at Fordham University last month) whom is wrong on all of the other ones? Why is one life suddenly more precious than another? All of those issues are necessary to sustain life, why does one trump them all? A friend of mine once said "conservatives care about babies up until the point they are born." I will not go so far as to say that, but when I look at the hypocrisy of all of this, I cannot help but feel that he is right.
The radical liberal would say that President Bush is just as wrong as Obama on the life issue because of the War in Iraq. I do not know what to make of that (to make a poor pun, such a weighing is 'above my paygrade'). I doubt that if President Bush spoke at a Catholic University, the Cardinal Newman Society would make it an issue (they certainly did not for Newt).
I will be honest, at face value, I am not consistent on my views on Catholic Social Teaching, but I look at the issues on a more philosophical level that makes the issue more complex -but that explanation is for another time (I blame my Jesuit education).
For those of you that have been living on a rock for the past two months, conservative Catholics are angry that President Obama is speaking at Notre Dame. Why? Because he is 'pro-abortion.' First off, NO ONE IS PRO-ABORTION! Being pro-choice means that the decision is not up to you, but up to the decider. Morality is a personal thing (anyone that has ever read Kant would know that); I have personal morals that some people may not follow (like, how I make it my duty to always wish friends 'Happy Birthday' -something that not everyone can agree with or could follow). That duty can only be a moral if everyone can follow it. Well, on the issue of abortion, to begin this argument, only women can choose that.
Second off, these people that oppose Obama speaking never seemed to have a problem with conservative speakers that are -if you weigh it- more opposed to Catholic Social Teaching. (I am working on a more extensive blog post on that very topic, which is forthcoming.) The argument is that since Obama is pro-choice he is opposed to fundamental Catholic beliefs. Maybe one, but other issues are just as heavily weighted. Health care, environment, anti-war labor, death penalty, and poverty -all of these are necessary to be consistently pro-life. So, Obama who is wrong on one issue suddenly has more moral baggage than Newt Gingrich (whom spoke at Fordham University last month) whom is wrong on all of the other ones? Why is one life suddenly more precious than another? All of those issues are necessary to sustain life, why does one trump them all? A friend of mine once said "conservatives care about babies up until the point they are born." I will not go so far as to say that, but when I look at the hypocrisy of all of this, I cannot help but feel that he is right.
The radical liberal would say that President Bush is just as wrong as Obama on the life issue because of the War in Iraq. I do not know what to make of that (to make a poor pun, such a weighing is 'above my paygrade'). I doubt that if President Bush spoke at a Catholic University, the Cardinal Newman Society would make it an issue (they certainly did not for Newt).
I will be honest, at face value, I am not consistent on my views on Catholic Social Teaching, but I look at the issues on a more philosophical level that makes the issue more complex -but that explanation is for another time (I blame my Jesuit education).
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Media Studies Misses You, Jack
Right now I am watching Anderson Cooper 360 (instead of writing a paper). Dr. Sanjay Gupta is discussing the case of the partial face transplant at the Cleavland Clinic this past December. I ask myself why he declined Obama's offer to be Surgeon General. I know that he wanted to be able to keep working with his patients. But, how many patients can he have close ties with if he is a neurosurgeon and a CNN contributor? Neurosurgies can take hours, but he still does his reports. I guess it is true that you sleep less when you get older.
I begin to think how Kal Penn is now working for the Obama Administration. Two seemingly celebrity-types were approached to work for the President. Certainly, my counterparts on the other side of the aisle will say that this is more proof that he is more of a celebrity than a President. But are the two that different?
Presidents walk red carpets, don't they? Presidents are approached for autographs and photos, right? Presidents have name-recognition, yeah? A celebrity is nothing more than someone that is widely popular. So why not use other 'celebrities' to spread your message? Most celebrity-run political movements have several celebrities and few (if any) politicos.
Choosing Gupta and Penn was one of the smartest moves by the President. Why? "Medium is the Message." Every time I think of that Marshall McLuhan quote, I realize how brilliant the father of Media Studies was. I am a believer that Pope John Paul II and Ronald Reagan are so idolized is that they were first actors. Actors are trained in how to appeal to a certain audience and hone the message that way. The medium -the actor's craft- is the message -the idea or proposition trying to be conveyed. You never see a public speaker say a bold proposition as a first point. It is always the last. The effective speaker begins on a universally accepted proposition and will slowly flow into the proposition. If you do not believe me, watch the 2003 State of the Union; President Bush started on much more 'compassionate' conservative themes that democrats could agree upon and, eventually, highlighted a plan for war in Iraq. His speechwriters were brilliant.
Why not choose celebrities (even if they are b-list) to work for your administration? They, in theory, know how to shape the message so people will get what message is trying to be conveyed. Of course, you do not want to mention what is hot-button issue in one state, but will in a state that is cooler on the issue. Celebrities, from my experience, know how to give concise question answers in some media (like television) and more thought-provoking answers in others (like magazines). One must realize who the target audience is when shaping a message to communicate. Celebrities, likely, know who follow them (like strong women follow Oprah and teeny-boppers follow the Jonas Brothers), so if a celebrity says "I support this candidate because [issue followers coincide with celebrity]," the follower will listen. While typing that last sentence, I wonder if Obama would have done so well if Oprah had not enforced him; since all of time is based on cause and effect, I will never know. Kal Penn certainly knows that stoner-film and medical drama lovers will listen to what Obama, through him, says. I am also sure that Sanjay Gupta would have the same scenario with people that care enough about current events, but do not care to watch
C-SPAN all day out of quickly-induced boredom (like me). Using the proper communicator, people will listen.
Obama was smart in implementing new media in spreading his message. Young people aren't reading newspapers. They're online. Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube -Obama used it. It was a genius move. When you want to research a topic, you don't go to a library and go into the card catalog (like our ancestors did), you go do a Google search. A quick search on Obama and an noun would (and still will) reap thousands (if not millions) of results. Chances are, the top hits would be from legitimate sources (including official websites). So, when people wanted to know how Barack Obama stood on an issue, the top hit would be a blog post or a video. I cannot speak for you all, but I read (and remember) almost every website I read (not necessiarly true for schoolwork, however) (which, can make me seem to be a creeper when I accidentally remember what someone posted on Facebook weeks prior -but that is a whole other issue).
I am not saying that the President is manipulative. I am sure that President Obama knows that millions of Americans agree with him on many issues. But, if those people do not know that he agrees with them, they will not vote for him. He is just, strategically, expanding his base.
You may be asking why I chose this title for this post. One of the things I am most proud of in my family's heritage is that my (now deceased) second-cousin was Jack Culkin, a man the New York Times dubbed the "Man that Invented Media Studies." Culkin was a protege and close friend of McLuhan. Some of my mother's fondest childhood memories was with Jack. Because of her passing on these stories, I have investigated and, hence, realized how much ourselves is shaped by the media. If I ever run for President, I will be sure to have bloggers and Hollywood-types working in my communications department.
I begin to think how Kal Penn is now working for the Obama Administration. Two seemingly celebrity-types were approached to work for the President. Certainly, my counterparts on the other side of the aisle will say that this is more proof that he is more of a celebrity than a President. But are the two that different?
Presidents walk red carpets, don't they? Presidents are approached for autographs and photos, right? Presidents have name-recognition, yeah? A celebrity is nothing more than someone that is widely popular. So why not use other 'celebrities' to spread your message? Most celebrity-run political movements have several celebrities and few (if any) politicos.
Choosing Gupta and Penn was one of the smartest moves by the President. Why? "Medium is the Message." Every time I think of that Marshall McLuhan quote, I realize how brilliant the father of Media Studies was. I am a believer that Pope John Paul II and Ronald Reagan are so idolized is that they were first actors. Actors are trained in how to appeal to a certain audience and hone the message that way. The medium -the actor's craft- is the message -the idea or proposition trying to be conveyed. You never see a public speaker say a bold proposition as a first point. It is always the last. The effective speaker begins on a universally accepted proposition and will slowly flow into the proposition. If you do not believe me, watch the 2003 State of the Union; President Bush started on much more 'compassionate' conservative themes that democrats could agree upon and, eventually, highlighted a plan for war in Iraq. His speechwriters were brilliant.
Why not choose celebrities (even if they are b-list) to work for your administration? They, in theory, know how to shape the message so people will get what message is trying to be conveyed. Of course, you do not want to mention what is hot-button issue in one state, but will in a state that is cooler on the issue. Celebrities, from my experience, know how to give concise question answers in some media (like television) and more thought-provoking answers in others (like magazines). One must realize who the target audience is when shaping a message to communicate. Celebrities, likely, know who follow them (like strong women follow Oprah and teeny-boppers follow the Jonas Brothers), so if a celebrity says "I support this candidate because [issue followers coincide with celebrity]," the follower will listen. While typing that last sentence, I wonder if Obama would have done so well if Oprah had not enforced him; since all of time is based on cause and effect, I will never know. Kal Penn certainly knows that stoner-film and medical drama lovers will listen to what Obama, through him, says. I am also sure that Sanjay Gupta would have the same scenario with people that care enough about current events, but do not care to watch
C-SPAN all day out of quickly-induced boredom (like me). Using the proper communicator, people will listen.
Obama was smart in implementing new media in spreading his message. Young people aren't reading newspapers. They're online. Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube -Obama used it. It was a genius move. When you want to research a topic, you don't go to a library and go into the card catalog (like our ancestors did), you go do a Google search. A quick search on Obama and an noun would (and still will) reap thousands (if not millions) of results. Chances are, the top hits would be from legitimate sources (including official websites). So, when people wanted to know how Barack Obama stood on an issue, the top hit would be a blog post or a video. I cannot speak for you all, but I read (and remember) almost every website I read (not necessiarly true for schoolwork, however) (which, can make me seem to be a creeper when I accidentally remember what someone posted on Facebook weeks prior -but that is a whole other issue).
I am not saying that the President is manipulative. I am sure that President Obama knows that millions of Americans agree with him on many issues. But, if those people do not know that he agrees with them, they will not vote for him. He is just, strategically, expanding his base.
You may be asking why I chose this title for this post. One of the things I am most proud of in my family's heritage is that my (now deceased) second-cousin was Jack Culkin, a man the New York Times dubbed the "Man that Invented Media Studies." Culkin was a protege and close friend of McLuhan. Some of my mother's fondest childhood memories was with Jack. Because of her passing on these stories, I have investigated and, hence, realized how much ourselves is shaped by the media. If I ever run for President, I will be sure to have bloggers and Hollywood-types working in my communications department.
Saturday, May 2, 2009
Rename Swine Flu?
Yesterday, listing to a local New York radio show "John Gambling in the Morning," one caller asked why the Swine Flu is not being called "Mexican Flu" (or for that matter, why Bird Flu is not called "Asian Flu"). The (obviously racist) argument was that since the viruses originated in a certain area, it should be named as such and the reason it was not named that way is because of political correctness.
There are two problems with the argument:
There are two problems with the argument:
- They are named the way they are because the virus came from certain types of animals. Swine = pig or hog or boar. Bird/Avian = birds. The viruses somehow moved from being limited to a certain genius of animals to humans (which, coincidentally, is what is believed to be the basis of HIV/AIDS). It just so happens that it started in certain areas outside the United States.
- The last big outbreak about Swine Flu was in 1976 (and, before that, in 1918) and it was not related to Mexicans.
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Bachman Watch
If you have not heard of Congresswoman Michelle Bachman (R-MN), do yourself a favor and look her up. She is insane. The DCCC (a few days ago) launched a new page called "Bachman Watch," I suggest you look at it (read it after you see the Wikipedia page on her -don't lie, I know that it is your primary source for information on a topic).
Some of the things this woman has said and done and believes in include (I got these from a variety of sources that are just a Google search away):
If you all think a commentary is needed, I'll do one, but I think much of this speaks for itself.
Some of the things this woman has said and done and believes in include (I got these from a variety of sources that are just a Google search away):
- Tried to ban Disney's Aladdin from elementary schools because it promotes witchcraft and paganism
- The (conservative, "family values") Family Research Council is the "front lines of defense for the American people"
- Opposition to trade schools and on-the-job training for workplace skills
- Sarah Palin "easily has more qualifications than Senator Obama and Senator Biden put together if you look at Executive Experience [emphasis added] She has been in the Executive position for two years! . . . She is one sharp lady! . . . She has made tough decisions all across the scene. And, I think women all across America are going to love what they see in Sarah Palin; I was taken with her and I know a lot of American women will be. She's very strong, very tough, a committed, loving mother. But, she knows how to be a good executive and how to take on her own party and how to make thing happen. There is no reason why people won't understand this once they understand that people in Alaska -85% of people in Alaska [emphasis added] have a positive approval rating for Sarah Palin."
- [James Carville says to Larry King that he is astounded that this is the best pick that the Republican Party could come up with. Bachman finds it offensive to women.] "There are a lot of competent American women. Sarah Palin easily is a competent woman. She's proved herself in business; she's proved herself in politics. She has come up from nowhere to be somebody. And, she is someone we can all be very proud of. She is one competent, tough cookie. People are going to love her." [James Carville tells her that he supported a woman -Hillary Clinton- for President.] "And, with that, I think a lot of American women are going to be delighted with Sarah Palin because she exudes competence in everything she has ever done. She has a very good record and should be proud to run on that record. McCain really hit it out of the park with this pick."
- Insertion of Creationism to public school curriculum
- Wants to ban all gay rights. Also, LGBT people have "sexual dysfunction" or "sexual identity disorders."
- Opposes minimum wage increases
- Opposes online poker
- "I find it interesting that it was back in the 1970s that the swine flu broke out then under another Democrat president Jimmy Carter. And I'm not blaming this on President Obama, I just think it's an interesting coincidence." (The last time was actually under Gerald Ford.)
- Believes that Congress should be investigated for those with anti-American leanings
- Said that once argued that she couldn't support the economic recovery act because America was 'running out of rich people'
If you all think a commentary is needed, I'll do one, but I think much of this speaks for itself.
Yearbook photo and End of the Year Social!
Hey Everyone!
Hope you are all enjoying your last day of classes. We will be taking our club photo for the yearbook this Thursday, April 30th at 2:30 in McGinley Second. Hope you all can make it.
Also, a reminder that tonight is our End of the Year Social. We will be meeting at Walsh HALL Gate (Nnt the gate next to Walsh Library). We will then be walking down Arthur Ave. to Umberto's for some food, drink and celebration of all of our hard work, success and Obama's 100th day in office! Hope to see you all there.
Hope you are all enjoying your last day of classes. We will be taking our club photo for the yearbook this Thursday, April 30th at 2:30 in McGinley Second. Hope you all can make it.
Also, a reminder that tonight is our End of the Year Social. We will be meeting at Walsh HALL Gate (Nnt the gate next to Walsh Library). We will then be walking down Arthur Ave. to Umberto's for some food, drink and celebration of all of our hard work, success and Obama's 100th day in office! Hope to see you all there.
Young Republican rates Obama
Please watch this video and then read my commentary below
This girl does not know what she is talking about.
Firstly, the President is not a celebrity. No one is a celebrity. Celebrity status comes from name recognition and prestige (mostly encouraged by the media -but that is a whole other discussion). So, the guy likes to go to the beach? Is that wrong? Is relaxing and having a good time suddenly a sign that someone is not fit to lead? He likes to play and watch basketball. I cannot name a single President that has not, in some way, not partaken in some sporting activities. The thing that I find funny is that this girl says that the President is not spending enough time working when the last republican president spent more time vacationing than working. If you look at the press releases, Obama is working during the day and relaxing at night. Wait, don't most normal people do that too? Jessica Simpson once called President George W. Bush "a normal guy," adding, "but he runs the country." Honestly, we must remember that all of our elected officials are humans and they have the same emotions, desires, and needs that each and every one of us has. So, to criticize a President for relaxing and having fun every now and then is saying that they must reject their humanity, which is just absurd.
The President himself did not sign-off on Air Force One flying by the Statue of Liberty (nor knew about it for that matter), his military liaison did. And, by all accounts, the President was 'furious' about what happened. (To be fair, NYPD and FDNY did know about it, but the public was not notified.) But what does police violence, if I may ask, have to do with this situation?
As for Guatanamo Bay, Obama had planned to close it since the campaign. In fact, John McCain said that he would close it as well. It was doomed no matter what.
As for signing bills, I am not sure if this girl knows the difference between a bill and an Executive Order. He has not signed that many bills (the biggest is the Stimulus Bill), but he has done a lot of Executive Orders (which can be overruled by Congress). If this young woman wants to change policy, why doesn't she just write to her representatives (or is that too hard)?
I guess this is another manifestation of how uninformed the American populous is.
This girl does not know what she is talking about.
Firstly, the President is not a celebrity. No one is a celebrity. Celebrity status comes from name recognition and prestige (mostly encouraged by the media -but that is a whole other discussion). So, the guy likes to go to the beach? Is that wrong? Is relaxing and having a good time suddenly a sign that someone is not fit to lead? He likes to play and watch basketball. I cannot name a single President that has not, in some way, not partaken in some sporting activities. The thing that I find funny is that this girl says that the President is not spending enough time working when the last republican president spent more time vacationing than working. If you look at the press releases, Obama is working during the day and relaxing at night. Wait, don't most normal people do that too? Jessica Simpson once called President George W. Bush "a normal guy," adding, "but he runs the country." Honestly, we must remember that all of our elected officials are humans and they have the same emotions, desires, and needs that each and every one of us has. So, to criticize a President for relaxing and having fun every now and then is saying that they must reject their humanity, which is just absurd.
The President himself did not sign-off on Air Force One flying by the Statue of Liberty (nor knew about it for that matter), his military liaison did. And, by all accounts, the President was 'furious' about what happened. (To be fair, NYPD and FDNY did know about it, but the public was not notified.) But what does police violence, if I may ask, have to do with this situation?
As for Guatanamo Bay, Obama had planned to close it since the campaign. In fact, John McCain said that he would close it as well. It was doomed no matter what.
As for signing bills, I am not sure if this girl knows the difference between a bill and an Executive Order. He has not signed that many bills (the biggest is the Stimulus Bill), but he has done a lot of Executive Orders (which can be overruled by Congress). If this young woman wants to change policy, why doesn't she just write to her representatives (or is that too hard)?
I guess this is another manifestation of how uninformed the American populous is.
Friday, April 24, 2009
Web Site Transitioning
Last night, I had to transition the CUA College Democrats' website and Facebook to reflect the new Executive Board (a transition that went far from smoothly). During the process, I asked myself how Macon Phillips (White House Director of New Media) transitioned the White House site to reflect the new president and redesign. Thinking about it, my respect for Phillips grew.
Websites work like this:
Each website has a domain name (like google.com) and the domain name stands in for what is called an IP Address, which is like a phone number for the Internet. However, remembering IP addresses is not easy (one could be something like 209.63.739.610). So, to ease one's memory, things called Domain Name Servers (DNS) exist. They, when there is a site requested, change the URL to the IP address of the server in which the web page resides.
So, my guess on how Phillips transitioned whitehouse.gov is that he simply had a site ready on a new server and then had the record on the DNS change to reflect the new server.
If only my website transitions were so simple.
Websites work like this:
Each website has a domain name (like google.com) and the domain name stands in for what is called an IP Address, which is like a phone number for the Internet. However, remembering IP addresses is not easy (one could be something like 209.63.739.610). So, to ease one's memory, things called Domain Name Servers (DNS) exist. They, when there is a site requested, change the URL to the IP address of the server in which the web page resides.
So, my guess on how Phillips transitioned whitehouse.gov is that he simply had a site ready on a new server and then had the record on the DNS change to reflect the new server.
If only my website transitions were so simple.
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
The Hypocricy of the Tea Parties
It's funny that the Tax Day Tea Party Protests only happen now, under Obama. Apparently Obama is a socialist because he wants to return tax rates for the highest-income bracket of Americans to 10 points below the rate under the Reagan Administration? In addition, the majority of Americans want MORE, not less, government intervention in this recession. Economists on both sides of the aisle have long been admitting that increased government spending is not only necessary, but the best way to get us out of the Recession. I'm sure none of these Tea Party protesters ever said a word when Bush created the biggest national debt in decades with his unnecessary spending and wars in both Iraq and Afghanistan. It's too bad these protesters are going so far to the fringe that they don't even reflect the beliefs of Main Street. According to Gallup.com:
If we want to get back on our economic feet, we're going to need to spend now, shake up the economic system, and get it built on some solid bedrock. No need to go repeating the mistakes of the past.
And really? Tea-bag the White House? Do none of you really know what that means?
Matt Cashman is an agitated political ecologist who likes to blog from a lake-side log cabin.
A new Gallup Poll finds 48% of Americans saying the amount of federal income taxes they pay is "about right," with 46% saying "too high" -- one of the most positive assessments Gallup has measured since 1956. Typically, a majority of Americans say their taxes are too high, and relatively few say their taxes are too low...
The poll also finds 61% of Americans saying they regard the income taxes they have to pay this year as fair. There has been very little change on this measure in the last six years...
Implications
As the remaining U.S. tax filers prepare to send their income-tax returns before the April 15 deadline, Gallup finds Americans' views of their federal income taxes about as positive as at any point in the last 60 years. This may reflect the income-tax cut that was part of the $787 billion economic stimulus plan, as well as a continuing sense of patriotism with the country fighting two wars.
If we want to get back on our economic feet, we're going to need to spend now, shake up the economic system, and get it built on some solid bedrock. No need to go repeating the mistakes of the past.
And really? Tea-bag the White House? Do none of you really know what that means?
Matt Cashman is an agitated political ecologist who likes to blog from a lake-side log cabin.
Monday, April 13, 2009
Some News That Most of You Will Not Care About Reading
Most of you will not care for this, but I do, so I will report it. As some of you may know, I attended Xavier High School in Manhattan, which was founded by Fordham Jesuits (originally as a college, but there were a lot of changes that occurred over the years, which, I will not get into). Obviously, you cannot tell one school's story without the other.
Some new additions and old members to/of Xavier's Board of Trustees:
I know that just about none of you will care about this, but I do, so back off! (To sort-of quote Billy Madison).
Some new additions and old members to/of Xavier's Board of Trustees:
- Rev. Joseph A. O'Hare, S.J. (President Emeritus of Fordham) -old
- Rev. Robert Grimes, S.J. (Xavier Class of 1970) (Dean of Fordham College at Lincoln Center) -old
- Jennifer Mussi (Assistant Dean for Student Leadership and Community Development at Fordham)
I know that just about none of you will care about this, but I do, so back off! (To sort-of quote Billy Madison).
Newt: I Dont Care About Puppies
Yesterday, Newt Gingrich said on ABC's This Week that he finds the story about the puppy Malia and Sasha Obama got (as promised by their father on election night) to be irrelevant. Those of you that have not heard, the new first dog named "Bo" was revealed to the public over the weekend. Even though it is not a political story, it is still relevant. It is a feel-good story. We have all heard enough about terrorism and the economy, why not a story on how the President kept the promise that he made to his kids as a change of pace. It was sweet of Senator Kennedy to give the dog to the Obamas. Though Newt may not be interested in the story, some people may find it interesting. Newt is out of power, so why do people find what he says to be relevant?
Sunday, April 12, 2009
How to Save Money in These Trying Times (A Nerd's Perspective)
With the economy the way that it is, there is a easy way to save money that can range from a few hundred to a few million dollars. This would be great for so many organizations *cough* State of New York *cough*.
If you all are unfamiliar with any of the aforementioned products, Wikipedia them. Honestly, some organizations spend millions on program licenses, this could solve financial problems in just a few clicks. Sometimes I wonder why so many CIOs are so in love with Microsoft. I guess the reason is because they were raised on it (as was I). But with operating systems that cost $300, how can that devotion be justifiable? This economy has caused us all to make changes, why not change our favorite operating system or word processing program?
- Open Source
- switch to Linux, Apache HTTP Server, MySQL database, PHP, and Open Office.org. They are all open source (free) alternatives to proprietary products like those from Microsoft (and are traditionally more efficient).
- Google offers free versions of their products like GMail, Docs, and Chat that are specific for governments, schools, and nonprofits. With 7GB worth of memory for email, there is no reason to complain about server space limitations on emails.
- Mozilla
- Everyone with a braincell has realized why Firefox is superior to all other browsers and has switched. But, not enough use Thunderbird (an alternative to Outlook).
If you all are unfamiliar with any of the aforementioned products, Wikipedia them. Honestly, some organizations spend millions on program licenses, this could solve financial problems in just a few clicks. Sometimes I wonder why so many CIOs are so in love with Microsoft. I guess the reason is because they were raised on it (as was I). But with operating systems that cost $300, how can that devotion be justifiable? This economy has caused us all to make changes, why not change our favorite operating system or word processing program?
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Explain This To Me
My dad did my taxes for me the other day. To put it simply, this will be the first year that I do not get money back due to the State of New York. Though I am a bit upset about it, I do not mind really. I am considered an upper-echelon on the NYS tax bracket. I believe that the rich should pay more in taxes. The rich have more to lose if the government does badly:
Now, I know conservatives believe that progressive taxes lead to communism/socialism, but are leftist ideals all that bad? Truly speaking, communism is the best form of government because it is a lack of government. As John Locke would put it, it is the State of Nature. Everyone serves everyone else; economy is based on bartering; but, there are no set rules and everyone is judge and jury for each other (and since there would be no unbiased punishments, government was created). As long as justice is truly fair, the State of Nature is perfect. It is the ideal "I scratch your back and you scratch mine." We all help each other for the betterment of society and we see that the better we work, the more we can accumulate in other goods and that wealth is shared. People argue that it goes against human nature, but if we are made in God's image, we are, by nature, good and loving. So, where does this selfishness come from? I don't know. Someone explain that to me as well.
The rich are the CEO-types. A lot of their money is in the stock market. If the stocks do poorly, they lose money. If the stocks do poorly, who also loses money? The government (that is why NYS has so many problems right now). If the CEO-types stay responsible with their companies (unlike Enron or Bernie Madoff with other people's funds), that company does better, hence, the economy does better, hence the government does better. In all, it keeps everyone honest.Now, I may not be a CEO-type, but if I espouse that the belief, I cannot complain about my tax returns. I debated this subject with some CR friends of mine and, even though they did not fall into my category (and also do not believe in a progressive tax), they did not agree with progressive taxes. I am saying that I am being hurt by a progressive tax and, yet, believe in it and they say it is wrong. It makes no sense to me. Someone explain it to me.
Now, I know conservatives believe that progressive taxes lead to communism/socialism, but are leftist ideals all that bad? Truly speaking, communism is the best form of government because it is a lack of government. As John Locke would put it, it is the State of Nature. Everyone serves everyone else; economy is based on bartering; but, there are no set rules and everyone is judge and jury for each other (and since there would be no unbiased punishments, government was created). As long as justice is truly fair, the State of Nature is perfect. It is the ideal "I scratch your back and you scratch mine." We all help each other for the betterment of society and we see that the better we work, the more we can accumulate in other goods and that wealth is shared. People argue that it goes against human nature, but if we are made in God's image, we are, by nature, good and loving. So, where does this selfishness come from? I don't know. Someone explain that to me as well.
A Return to Justice
Yesterday's Justice Department decision to drop the prosecution of former Senator Ted Stevens (R-Alaska) was something that illustrated the essence of postpartisan change that President Obama promised he would bring to Washington.
Some on the left may view this decision as the administration capitulating on the pledge to crack down on corruption and change the culture of Washington. After all, Stevens certainly was involved in some shady dealings. His guilt is very possible in this case. However, the charges against him are not what determined the importance of Wednesday's decision by Attorney General Eric Holder. Rather, the acknowledgement of government misconduct in the investigation and trial demonstrate the commitment of the Obama administration to turning the page on politically motivated decisions at DOJ.
So maybe a weathered, corrupt member of the Republican old guard walks free. But this is not Ted Stevens vindication, but rather a sign that the administration is doing just what Obama has for so long told us we must: acknowledging that government is not the instrument with which political grudges should be settled. While perhaps a downer in terms of galvanizing his party for the political games many have grown accustomed to our leaders in Washington being little more than generals of, Holder's decision emphasizes the importance of fairness at the Justice Department, a welcome change of course from the Ashcroft/Gonzales/Mukasey years. After all, a government that seeks to fulfill its duty to the American people rather than serve as a battleground for partisan warfare, something that the Obama brand has always been about, is a change that's tough to believe in until we see it. Let's hope this is just a preview of that.
Some on the left may view this decision as the administration capitulating on the pledge to crack down on corruption and change the culture of Washington. After all, Stevens certainly was involved in some shady dealings. His guilt is very possible in this case. However, the charges against him are not what determined the importance of Wednesday's decision by Attorney General Eric Holder. Rather, the acknowledgement of government misconduct in the investigation and trial demonstrate the commitment of the Obama administration to turning the page on politically motivated decisions at DOJ.
So maybe a weathered, corrupt member of the Republican old guard walks free. But this is not Ted Stevens vindication, but rather a sign that the administration is doing just what Obama has for so long told us we must: acknowledging that government is not the instrument with which political grudges should be settled. While perhaps a downer in terms of galvanizing his party for the political games many have grown accustomed to our leaders in Washington being little more than generals of, Holder's decision emphasizes the importance of fairness at the Justice Department, a welcome change of course from the Ashcroft/Gonzales/Mukasey years. After all, a government that seeks to fulfill its duty to the American people rather than serve as a battleground for partisan warfare, something that the Obama brand has always been about, is a change that's tough to believe in until we see it. Let's hope this is just a preview of that.
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Fail!
No, this is not a post about Rush Limbaugh wanting President Obama to fail. This is my inner nerd coming out (take that as a fair warning).
Tonight, we, the Fordham College Democrats are hosting Ari Melber of The Nation magazine and he will discuss the role of New Media in the new administration. Researching the White House Office of New Media, just a little while ago, I learned that the White House has added a blog. At exactly noon (and four minutes before Barack Obama took the Oath of Office, I may add), the entire site changed from listing President George W. Bush to President Barack Obama (along with a complete redesign). The first post on the blog, which was posted at the same time the new website went live, the first blog post was also written, authored by White House Director of New Media Macon Phillips.
Looking at the blog, I saw that they posted a link to the corresponding RSS feed. Looking at the code of the feed, I saw that it was not an RSS feed, but, instead, an Atom feed. Simply put, feeds are web pages that can be subscribed to like a email newsletter, without sending an email. The difference between RSS and Atom feeds is the coding behind them. RSS allows for people to create custom frameworks, but must stay within certain parameters (like putting HTML in the pages). However, Atom feeds are meant to be more like HTML web pages with the modularity that comes with them. People prefer RSS feeds because they have been around longer, allow for more customization, and is the programming choice for podcasting. The RSS/Atom format war is not a big problem since systems like Feedburner allow for converting one type of feed into another.
Well, I emailed the White House about it (no joke, I really emailed the White House about how they got the feed type's name wrong) and who I would contact about a job or internship in the White House Office of New Media (assuming that is the name). I will see how it comes out. What can I say? New media is my thing (hence, my title).
Getting back to the White House and new media, Obama's campaign and presidency thus far has been shaped by new media. As we have all heard, Obama loves his Blackberry. He goes on Facebook, Twitter, (and I assume), YouTube, and other social networking and web 2.0 -user-generated web content (like this blog)- sites. Guess who also goes on those sites? Young people (us). By appealing to the people where they roam, of course you will influence them and get them to vote for you. People no longer want phone calls, they want Facebook messages. New media is here to stay and the Obama Administration knows it, they have a Facebook, they have a Twitter, they have a YouTube, they have a blog. (Wait, come to think of it, we have all of that stuff as well.) They know that to get the message out, you need to be where your constituents are; in this case, in front of a screen.
These sites have sparked debates over privacy issues, but what is there to really be afraid of? Like with how President Obama has always shown himself, we should be what is referred to for nerds as a WYSIWYG (pronounced "wizzy wig") -What You See Is What You Get. By showing our true selves, not just in politics, but in business, and relationships, we can get better results. You say to your boss "we should have a company outing to boost employee morale," the boss will likely do it; but if enough people suggest it, chances are, the boss will do it. The problem is that we all hide behind a veil (or, in this case, a screen -not to say, necessarily, that it is a bad thing) and say it to everyone but the boss. The boss finds out and thinks you are insulting his leadership and fires you. Now, this may be a simplistic example, but look at the deeper meaning. The boss has should realize that this is who he has as employees, he chose them and they do the work. If he does not cater to him in some way, work will not be done.
In the same way, President Obama realizes that he needs the average American to work with him. Whether it be writing to one's senators and congressman, or signing up for a new program, or even to just pray for him. But to do that, he must 1) earn the person's trust and 2) listen to what the person wants in order to cater to him or her. By going on his Twitter every night (as he does) or his Facebook, or what have you, President Obama can see what the issue of the moment is to you and I.
New media has not reduced the level of personal contact, but widened it. The only difference between talking to someone face-to-face and sending him or her a text message is the level of intimacy (which can be a make or break for some interpersonal relationships, but that is a whole other issue entirely).
Tonight, we, the Fordham College Democrats are hosting Ari Melber of The Nation magazine and he will discuss the role of New Media in the new administration. Researching the White House Office of New Media, just a little while ago, I learned that the White House has added a blog. At exactly noon (and four minutes before Barack Obama took the Oath of Office, I may add), the entire site changed from listing President George W. Bush to President Barack Obama (along with a complete redesign). The first post on the blog, which was posted at the same time the new website went live, the first blog post was also written, authored by White House Director of New Media Macon Phillips.
Looking at the blog, I saw that they posted a link to the corresponding RSS feed. Looking at the code of the feed, I saw that it was not an RSS feed, but, instead, an Atom feed. Simply put, feeds are web pages that can be subscribed to like a email newsletter, without sending an email. The difference between RSS and Atom feeds is the coding behind them. RSS allows for people to create custom frameworks, but must stay within certain parameters (like putting HTML in the pages). However, Atom feeds are meant to be more like HTML web pages with the modularity that comes with them. People prefer RSS feeds because they have been around longer, allow for more customization, and is the programming choice for podcasting. The RSS/Atom format war is not a big problem since systems like Feedburner allow for converting one type of feed into another.
Well, I emailed the White House about it (no joke, I really emailed the White House about how they got the feed type's name wrong) and who I would contact about a job or internship in the White House Office of New Media (assuming that is the name). I will see how it comes out. What can I say? New media is my thing (hence, my title).
Getting back to the White House and new media, Obama's campaign and presidency thus far has been shaped by new media. As we have all heard, Obama loves his Blackberry. He goes on Facebook, Twitter, (and I assume), YouTube, and other social networking and web 2.0 -user-generated web content (like this blog)- sites. Guess who also goes on those sites? Young people (us). By appealing to the people where they roam, of course you will influence them and get them to vote for you. People no longer want phone calls, they want Facebook messages. New media is here to stay and the Obama Administration knows it, they have a Facebook, they have a Twitter, they have a YouTube, they have a blog. (Wait, come to think of it, we have all of that stuff as well.) They know that to get the message out, you need to be where your constituents are; in this case, in front of a screen.
These sites have sparked debates over privacy issues, but what is there to really be afraid of? Like with how President Obama has always shown himself, we should be what is referred to for nerds as a WYSIWYG (pronounced "wizzy wig") -What You See Is What You Get. By showing our true selves, not just in politics, but in business, and relationships, we can get better results. You say to your boss "we should have a company outing to boost employee morale," the boss will likely do it; but if enough people suggest it, chances are, the boss will do it. The problem is that we all hide behind a veil (or, in this case, a screen -not to say, necessarily, that it is a bad thing) and say it to everyone but the boss. The boss finds out and thinks you are insulting his leadership and fires you. Now, this may be a simplistic example, but look at the deeper meaning. The boss has should realize that this is who he has as employees, he chose them and they do the work. If he does not cater to him in some way, work will not be done.
In the same way, President Obama realizes that he needs the average American to work with him. Whether it be writing to one's senators and congressman, or signing up for a new program, or even to just pray for him. But to do that, he must 1) earn the person's trust and 2) listen to what the person wants in order to cater to him or her. By going on his Twitter every night (as he does) or his Facebook, or what have you, President Obama can see what the issue of the moment is to you and I.
New media has not reduced the level of personal contact, but widened it. The only difference between talking to someone face-to-face and sending him or her a text message is the level of intimacy (which can be a make or break for some interpersonal relationships, but that is a whole other issue entirely).
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
No Condoms
Pope Benedict XVI has declared that condoms are not allowed and are ineffective to prevent HIV infection while on tour in Africa. The Pontiff says that the only true method for prevention is sexual abstinence.
Some may think that Benedict is keeping the same stance as Pope John Paul II; but, if one looks at his history, he or she would see that the current pontiff was a staunch liberal when he started in the magistarium (and got more and more conservative has he went up the proverbial food chain).
Benedict's rationale is that condoms only make the issue worse. Truth be told, he is right. If one thinks, oh, I'm using protection, I will be fine, they may use condoms as a crutch and neglect to think that there is still a chance of contracting HIV.
When approaching sexual education, one must realize that to prevent any issues, the best method is to be say (but educated on why).
Some may think that Benedict is keeping the same stance as Pope John Paul II; but, if one looks at his history, he or she would see that the current pontiff was a staunch liberal when he started in the magistarium (and got more and more conservative has he went up the proverbial food chain).
Benedict's rationale is that condoms only make the issue worse. Truth be told, he is right. If one thinks, oh, I'm using protection, I will be fine, they may use condoms as a crutch and neglect to think that there is still a chance of contracting HIV.
When approaching sexual education, one must realize that to prevent any issues, the best method is to be say (but educated on why).
2 Things I Do Not Get
- Conservatives cling to Barry Goldwater, yet forget his liberal stance on social issues like how he was pro-choice on abortion, pro-civil rights, pro-gay rights, and against forcing religion on people.
- Ronald Reagan (multi-part):
- He came up with the 11th Commandment (Thou shall not speak poorly of a fellow republican), but Reaganites never follow it.
- He was a major part of the Religious Right, yet was not religious himself.
- His own kids (with maybe the exception of Michael) hate him, yet he is found to be pro- Family Values.
- Barry Goldwater, his mentor, could not stand him.
Saturday, March 7, 2009
CDA Site
This evening, I learned that we, the Fordham College Democrats (Rose Hill) did not have a page on the College Democrats of America site. So, I took it upon myself to create one. I have had a lot of experience with the site's social networking system and I can say that it is a great tool to connect with other college democrats. You all should join, the url is below.
http://partybuilder.collegedems.com/page/group/FordhamUniversityRoseHill
http://partybuilder.collegedems.com/page/group/FordhamUniversityRoseHill
My Ram Opinon That Was Not Published
Having read the point-counterpoint two issues ago and the article by Jayme DeSocio in the latest issue of The Ram, I did not understand why nobody saw the good that having wi-fi in the Ram Vans could cause.
I am a commuter from Brooklyn (a part that taxis will travel to) and I am involved with the College Democrats and PRIDE Alliance, so I leave campus some nights as late as 11 PM. I do not like having to wait up to 20 minutes for a D train, so I take the Ram Van down to Lincoln Center.
I have an iPod Touch (think iPhone without a phone while having the addiction power of a BlackBerry) and I survive on it –I listen to music, play games, even check train schedules on it. I am also neurotic about checking my email (when I am in the library, I can typically be found at a computer with my flash drive plugged in and my copy of Thunderbird Potable open). So, my iPod Touch is my life.
Coming home about a month ago, after I arrived at Lincoln Center, I went to check my email on my iPod Touch. I go to the screen to choose a network and I see “Fordham I-Van.” I ask myself what that is and I realize that the Ram Vans now have wi-fi.
I have just recently become web liaison -Fordham IT speak for webmaster- for the College Democrats and PRIDE, so after meetings, there is usually a need to update the Facebook group or Google Calendar or send out necessary emails. Without the wi-fi, I would be up until 1 or 2 am just doing this work after I take care of my personal needs.
I take the Ram Van after dark, and, since I lack night vision, I cannot exactly do my reading for class for the next day at that time. Luckily, my iPod Touch has a backlight, so I can do some work, albeit extracurricular.
Before the wi-fi, I would find myself wasting my time playing solitaire or watching the passing scenery on the West Side Highway. Now that I have Internet access on the Ram Van, I can do necessary projects, send out emails, and Facebook stalk my friends.
Now, faculty can post assignments and staff can send out emails. This improvement to the University will allow the school to run more efficiently.
Though wi-fi in the Ram Vans may look to be an improper use of University funds since the campus does not yet have complete wireless Internet, people should take note that this is a big help for the students, faculty, and staff of Fordham University that need to be connected to the web at all hours (like most of us are now)
(Note: I wrote this originally on my iPod Touch.)I have just recently become web liaison -Fordham IT speak for webmaster- for the College Democrats and PRIDE, so after meetings, there is usually a need to update the Facebook group or Google Calendar or send out necessary emails. Without the wi-fi, I would be up until 1 or 2 am just doing this work after I take care of my personal needs.
I take the Ram Van after dark, and, since I lack night vision, I cannot exactly do my reading for class for the next day at that time. Luckily, my iPod Touch has a backlight, so I can do some work, albeit extracurricular.
Before the wi-fi, I would find myself wasting my time playing solitaire or watching the passing scenery on the West Side Highway. Now that I have Internet access on the Ram Van, I can do necessary projects, send out emails, and Facebook stalk my friends.
Now, faculty can post assignments and staff can send out emails. This improvement to the University will allow the school to run more efficiently.
Though wi-fi in the Ram Vans may look to be an improper use of University funds since the campus does not yet have complete wireless Internet, people should take note that this is a big help for the students, faculty, and staff of Fordham University that need to be connected to the web at all hours (like most of us are now)
(Note: I wrote this originally on my iPod Touch.)
I am a commuter from Brooklyn (a part that taxis will travel to) and I am involved with the College Democrats and PRIDE Alliance, so I leave campus some nights as late as 11 PM. I do not like having to wait up to 20 minutes for a D train, so I take the Ram Van down to Lincoln Center.
I have an iPod Touch (think iPhone without a phone while having the addiction power of a BlackBerry) and I survive on it –I listen to music, play games, even check train schedules on it. I am also neurotic about checking my email (when I am in the library, I can typically be found at a computer with my flash drive plugged in and my copy of Thunderbird Potable open). So, my iPod Touch is my life.
Coming home about a month ago, after I arrived at Lincoln Center, I went to check my email on my iPod Touch. I go to the screen to choose a network and I see “Fordham I-Van.” I ask myself what that is and I realize that the Ram Vans now have wi-fi.
I have just recently become web liaison -Fordham IT speak for webmaster- for the College Democrats and PRIDE, so after meetings, there is usually a need to update the Facebook group or Google Calendar or send out necessary emails. Without the wi-fi, I would be up until 1 or 2 am just doing this work after I take care of my personal needs.
I take the Ram Van after dark, and, since I lack night vision, I cannot exactly do my reading for class for the next day at that time. Luckily, my iPod Touch has a backlight, so I can do some work, albeit extracurricular.
Before the wi-fi, I would find myself wasting my time playing solitaire or watching the passing scenery on the West Side Highway. Now that I have Internet access on the Ram Van, I can do necessary projects, send out emails, and Facebook stalk my friends.
Now, faculty can post assignments and staff can send out emails. This improvement to the University will allow the school to run more efficiently.
Though wi-fi in the Ram Vans may look to be an improper use of University funds since the campus does not yet have complete wireless Internet, people should take note that this is a big help for the students, faculty, and staff of Fordham University that need to be connected to the web at all hours (like most of us are now)
(Note: I wrote this originally on my iPod Touch.)I have just recently become web liaison -Fordham IT speak for webmaster- for the College Democrats and PRIDE, so after meetings, there is usually a need to update the Facebook group or Google Calendar or send out necessary emails. Without the wi-fi, I would be up until 1 or 2 am just doing this work after I take care of my personal needs.
I take the Ram Van after dark, and, since I lack night vision, I cannot exactly do my reading for class for the next day at that time. Luckily, my iPod Touch has a backlight, so I can do some work, albeit extracurricular.
Before the wi-fi, I would find myself wasting my time playing solitaire or watching the passing scenery on the West Side Highway. Now that I have Internet access on the Ram Van, I can do necessary projects, send out emails, and Facebook stalk my friends.
Now, faculty can post assignments and staff can send out emails. This improvement to the University will allow the school to run more efficiently.
Though wi-fi in the Ram Vans may look to be an improper use of University funds since the campus does not yet have complete wireless Internet, people should take note that this is a big help for the students, faculty, and staff of Fordham University that need to be connected to the web at all hours (like most of us are now)
(Note: I wrote this originally on my iPod Touch.)
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