hockeycestmoi

A rally .... finally

2009-03-10T17:20:00.000-07:00

Before the market opened Citi explained how they were profitable again and boom!! May I say it again BOOM!! Good news the rally started and never ended. The best news is there was no midday swoon. In fact, the last 30 minutes provided an upswing. If you listened to Obama, you would be ahead. Of course, the talking heads pulled the bulls out of the closet today...If said Dow 5000, you are a chump, today. Yesterday, you were prophetic. Cramer was giddy with delight. Ah, yes,we are all Bulls, today.

I am happy.This is a good start. Let's hope the other financial institutions agree. Until then,great day...afterwards..the light may be at the end of tunnel.This time it won't be a train.

Another down day...with some laughs

2009-03-09T18:29:00.000-07:00

When I started this blog on the downward spiral in the stock market, I doubted I could keep up but sometimes you simply cannot make up this stuff...so here are the headlines in Yahoo Finance!! today... the day opened with Meck offering to buy out Schering Plough for $41billion,

The market opened lower

Market opens lower after Merck Schering Plough deal ( Is the author suggesting some connection).

An one hour laterm the market is up

Market turns positive on Merck Schering Plough deal ( The author explains how the the deal is good news.

Next..the market is about even:

Market is choppy on Merck Deal ( Uh?)

Market dives

Market falls on Investor uncertainty ( Finally,he gets it. There is no tie between the Merck deal and the market. The market is trading on fear, not fundamentals. Nothing happened during the to cause a 200 point spread, ending in negative territory.)

In a normal market a big deal would be greeted with a minor rally. As the market approaches 6000, the "experts" are calling for 5000. What else is new. Enough for today.

Roller Coaster Ride

2009-03-06T14:59:00.000-08:00

The day ended up, imagine that and close to the Obama bottom.

Cramer took his shot at the Obama bottom not holding. Well, at least Obama and moi are willing to stick with it.We may be off 5% but we are willing to have our name associated with it. Cramer will call several bottoms and remind us how he was right. A broken clock is right twice a day.

I thought the high unemployment right would drive the market down. Instead it opened higher...a rally... well then for no reason that I could tell the market dove. The rally scared the market. It was upredictable. For another unknown reason, the market ended on a rally. Based on what? The question is what happened in one day that would cause the market to change in value by 6%..the answer..rumors, fear...nothing logical.

I cannot wait for the day when the markets are boring again. After all the important news, earnings, economic reports and the like are in before the opening bell. It is the only way to have orderly markets. By 10:30, the day used to be over. there would be some selling by the end of the day. The void during the day is filled with unsubstantiated rumors, remrks by the economic gurus and CNBC blathering away joined by the FOX business channel. Imagine if the markets behaved more orderly, traded on real data. They would have no ratings..so they have to move the markets.

Perhaps the most prophetic comment was the market will lag the recovery. I can live with that. Anything the market does between now and April is noise.Earnings season is around the corner. The reports will arrive. I expect good news, better profits. They will no doubt be discounted by the markets. Eventually, fundamentals have to mean something, again.

Today, oh the pessimism

2009-03-05T15:38:00.000-08:00

So much for the Obama bottom. Yet,I remain optimistic. There was good news today...better then expected retail sales, WalMart reported more than 5% increase year ever year comp sales. Other retailers who reported lower sales were better than expected. The ECB and England cut interest rates by 0.5%. Factory orders were better than expected. Even jobless claims were better than expected.We are not talking great times but there is a trend. So, even though the Obama bottom did not hold I will stay with it.

So,why then a 4% drop? Citi group dropped to $1.00 or less.GMmay go well go bankrupt.This is old news. The words being used are "concern","worry" and "fear". The leaders of industry are no longer leading. The masters of the universe are slaves to rumors. The groupthink has decided better to ignore all the good news and follow the rumors. Aren't business people supposed to be hard edged nuber crunchers not rumor mongerers. Maybe John Stewart had it right last night skewering CNBC. Worth finding it onloine if you have not seen it.

There was one other concern. The Chinese stimulus may not be enough. Any day that goesby without the government,US or somebody else's doesn't throw in more money, the market tanks. Of course,when they do,the choruses of Socialism start. Obama should stick with his plans.He has them. Wall Street is absolutely out of ideas, no leadership.

Cramer:

He went ballistic tonight blaming Obama for the fall.Yesterday,he was calling for the rally. He shouldjoin leagues with Rush Limbaugh,his new BFF. The way to deflect how terribly wrong you are is place the blame elsewhere.

Laura Rowley:

Excellent piecee on Yahoo Finace, today....where is allthe AIG money going? CDS insurance is being paid. Who is receiving the money (our bailout money).

CNBC:

They simply cannot find enough people who are negative enough. 5000,anyone,4,000 and 3,000. Stop falling all over yourselves. Don't get me wrong I am astrong proponent of capitalism and I certainly do not agreee with the popular position that Obama is a socialist. Perhaps another day.

BUY

Today in the market

2009-03-04T17:38:00.000-08:00

After losing about 50% of my investments, I decided to begin blogging as a way to vent and rant. Before I begin my rant, I am calling the market bottom. Actually, I am calling it the Obama bottom. He called it yesterday. The bull market is here. Indeed, the socialist,wealth destroyer has called the bottom and if you listened you would be up 2% in one day. Mr. Cool explained how the P/E ratios were attractive, now. He is doing better than Cramer. The only advice he provides is buy and sell looking into a rear view mirror.

Groupthink defeated

The big news today was not the Chinese stimulus package...why is is a great idea when China does it but a disaster when we do it here? Maybe, the market mavens have it all wrong. Obama launched his program to save homes. More on that later. Groupthink..yes.. every market commentator has gone very negative. Why? They hate being wrong and most of them have been throughout this cycle. A few have remained optimistic, Kudlow and Kass, to name my favorites. Today, their collective gloom began to take a back seat. "We are all bulls now."Even the apopletic Cramer is calling this a rally..after calling the market toxic. It is Wednesday and there is still Thursday and Friday...to change.

Today the President released his plan to prevent foreclosures. The plan is well thought out and targets homes and owners that can and willbe saved. The market will love it. (For now,they can't say so.) Kudoes to Donny Deutsch, for shutting up motor mouth Michele Caruso Cabrera. No sooner than the plan is announced does chirpy begin finding fault, speaking over the reporter discussing the plan. Donny explained it is a plan... it is not perfect. It does not save everyone. It should not.Michele is more concerned that it does not save investor property. She's right. Investors ought not be saved. Maybe next time.

Frankly, I have had some problems with the administration's programs. They are becoming more aggressive and getting out the message. Confidence will be restored. The Obama bottom......

The rally was very good despite the sell off in the last hour. It had to happen. Too much optimism.....well...we can't have that.

Mortgage Holiday

2007-12-03T19:03:00.000-08:00

I am taking a Mortgage Holiday. I have been making mortgage paymennts for about twenty years, now. Every month, the mortage company is paid in full. They can count on my check. I have the money, don't get me wrong. I am just tired of being a sap.

I just read where the government is going to work with banks to help "serious" homeowners who got caught in the subprime mess pay or extend their mortgage. In some cases, those stuck with A.R.M.'s will be allowed to extend their payments under the lower interest rate. So, rather being a sap, I am gong to stop my mortgage payments. Why not? Apparently, if you are irresponsible the government will help you. Who knows after missing a few payments, the mortgage company may offer me a lower rate. Why not? I am a very good risk.

Let's get a few things straight, the government has no business getting involved. Once they do, people who do not deserve a break will get it. That is not the government's responsibility. We do not need a means test for subprime mortgage. The lending companies and borrowers are perfectly capable of handling the individual cases. If a subprime lender goes under, so be it. The markets are very efficient. The strong borrowers will continue to hold on to their homes. Someone who has a zero down loan is paying rent.

Meanwhile, I am planning my morgage holiday.If you are like me, don't be a sap, take a mortgage holiday. I cannot think of a better way to send a message to the banks and government.

Good Neighbors...more

2006-08-22T18:16:00.000-07:00

I did promise I would writ more about being good naighbors..you have to read the first blog. There, I discussed the US proximate neighbors, Mexico and Canada. Canada is a very good neighbor and Mexico is well a bit of a problem neighbor.

The world is a smaller place, now, globalization, air travel, even the internet. What does that mean? It means we can visit our global neighbors without leaving out living room or in my case, my easy chair. True we get to spy on the global neighborhoods without going there. It is fun, really. But let's pretend for a moment we are restless and want to see if there is better neighborhood. A good neghbor is one you can trust to have over for coffe, chat and not worry about your silverware being stolen. With that in mind, let;s load up the car and take sdrive through the global neighborhoods.

Central America:

I know you want to visit the nicer neighborhoods..but I am driving so we leave our lovely NAFTA neighborhood and drive to the closest neighborhood....so let's wave to Mexico and visit Central America. Alright, we are not getting out of the car. The neigborhood is a mess. The kids are noisy. Each neighbor is ready to pick a fight with his neighbor. Nicauaraga is ready to get into with it El Salvador. Gualtalema is a broken home.,,,ready for a divorce and Panama, well forget it. Then, as we are about to leave we see Costa Rica..the front yard looks great. The kids are neatly dressed. We stop to chat for a while.

Invite them over for coffee, you have to be careful with the silverware, linens and well lock the pantry. Lesson...suddenly you understand Mexico and thankful they are there to keep out these nighbors..ok we will not complain so much about Mexico.

South America

We continue south and wecome upon South America. This neighborhood is a patchwork of large opulent homes. Problem is Brazil and Argentina, among other can't pay their mortgage or taxes. Columbia and Peru are disasters and the Venezuela house has a strict father. Our initial impression is well it is nicer than Central America but not much nicer. We drive around more and suddenly we come on Chile...a nice house and we stop and chat. The house is busy...the kids are clean. We actually sit down and have a coffee. It is obvious they hate the neighborhood, In fact they keep asking if they can be part of our neighborhood (NAFTA). We say why not, the coffee is great. Their big secret is a huge fence to protect them from the rest of the neighborhood,,,the Andes Mountains. They say it works,,,,we nod in agreement.

So would we have the rest of South America over for coffee. I guess we would, well everyone except Venezuela and maybe Columbia or Peru. The silverware is safe. In all likelihood they will insist on bringing wine and dessert and you know iti s going to be a long night.

Europe

Ah, the EC, this has to be good. It is. The neighborhood is pristine. You drive around. The people are friendly and remind you so much of the folks back home. Evertone invites you over the coffee. You like it here but you do notice the houses are close together and everyone os on the front porch. So you stop, everywhere for coffee. They ta;l all about themselves ask you questions.... after a while and another glass of wine, it starts. The French tell you secrets about the Germans. The Germans tell you the Italians do not have a very nice house. England tells you can't trust Germany...your head is spinning. Let's face it this a great neighborhood but really we need more space between each other.... also, you know they are talking about us behind your back.

So, yes we would have coffee...but you have to be sure to have coffee with everyone and not to offend anyone,,,and if you invite France, be sure you invite Germany or they will be upset at you. You will not have to worry about the silverware..well some may decide to bring over their own silverware....and don't be surprised if they drop in unannounced...

the rest for another blog

Stand up,stand down, yeah when do we leave?

2006-08-13T10:34:00.000-07:00

With all the news from Lebanon /Israeli conflict and the latest terrorist plot foiled, this may be good time to remind everyone our troops are still risking their lives in Iraq.....with no prospect of coming home.

Mr. Bush has filled our heads with rhetoric...we won't cut and run. If we do the terrorsits will win. When asked directly, the response is when Iraq stands up, we will stand down. I continue to hear news repotrs of Iraqi citizens being murdered in great numbers. I also read about American troops getting killed. These troops are the sons, daughters, brothers, sisters and parents of Americans at home...and for the love of God, please don't show their family saying their family memeber belived in the cause but drown out the voices of those who say they believe their loss was a waste.

Now, I don't speak rhetoric or BS fro that matter, so what does when they stand up, we will stand down mean anyway, what are the measures? How are we the average citizen supposed to keep score? Is there a number of Iraqi troops and police officers that ned to be trained...if that is the case..then please let's have them come to the US for Boot Camp and Police training..at least they will be safe while in basic training... We can measure that and the country will behind it. It would be welcomed. is it when the terrorists are stopped as measured by a stopage in IED's and bombings....Let me say, the IED's may stop when we leave nad the bombings will go on forever until the Sunnis. Shites and Kurds get along...good luck. In fact, why would Iraq wish us to leave, we are providding free security. If you are waiting for the government to say leave..good luck..and if they ever did, it would not be because they like us. Let's face it, many cities would love to have the full force of the US army enter some of the inner city neighborhoods and not leave until all crime is stopped. They would save a ton of money if police protection. You have a very similar situation on Iraq,,,are these insurgents are gangs. AS time goes by, I believe the latter. So you have left us on quagmire by trying to change this country. You have left this mess to the next president.

Here is my exit strategy. It is bold. Let's begin with the truth. Iraq is not a country. It is a creation of the British Empire. The Yugoslavia of the Middle East.It is composed of Sunnis, Shites and Kurds. So let's fix what we can. Allow the Kurds to establish their own country, Kurdistan. Once you do that, dangle the NATO membership carrot. Really, they will become members of NATo. That will offer them protection from Iran and Turkey. Turkey is a NATO member. They may balk at having Kurdistan in NATO..but it does provide them a measure of security....and then the oil can flow through Turkey. Turkey and Kurdistan become friendly and Iran stands ground. Iran does not want to have the full force of NATO come down on them if they even look at Kurdistan the wrong way.

So, now we have saved Kurdistan. Now we deal with Southern Iraq. The goverment now has tow real factions Sunnis and Shites. Here is the truth. These two sides may have to have a civil war. That is what is happening now, our troops are in the crossfire. At this point, you need to involve our friendsin the region, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait et al. Now, they have a formenting insurgency next door. Their job is to assist in quelling the insurgency. We did our job..we got rid of Saddam Hussein's regime. Thye can sit by and watch the remaining part of Iraq adopt another Saddam or help the country become like them..not a democracy but at least friendly to the United States. After all, we call Saudi Arabia, a friend but they are not a democracy...why are forcing Iraq to become a democracy?

What Health Care Crisis?

2006-08-11T16:29:00.000-07:00

There is a crisis but it is definitely a Health Care crisis in this country. Canada and the UK have a first world Health Care crisis. The system, while availablle to all, is not functioning correctly. The system is inadequately funded. The evel of health care has been comprimised. There are indeed waits for operation. That is not to say if you are gravely ill you do not get treatment but if you need a replacement knee, or worse yet open heart surgery, you may have to wait. Your quality of life is comprimised. That is a first world health care crisis. That situation would be totally unacceptable in the United States..se what do we have..we have a health insurance crisis and here is my stump speech..any serious candidate for office should feel free to borrow these ideas. I wish you would.

The USA has more than enough healthcare facilities. It has on fact the best healthcare in the world...really, I know, for a fact. But the means by which we obtain healthcare, through health insurance is failing and failing terribly. In fact, it is UnAmerican. You see most of us do not own our healthcare policy...think of it, if you get health insurance from your company whose name is on the card...quick check..aha..in most cases, you see the company's name. Where is your name? Now look at the driver's insurance, whose name ison that card..your name..wowwhat a revelation. So you have healthcare because you are presently part of a large group. Now tell me, how many choices do you have whne you get health insurance from your employer...two, maybe three, if you're lucky. Now if you are let go, leave or get fired what happens uh you lose your policy.. excuse me that was never your policy to begin wiht anyway. We live in thta dred every day. I hate my job but I need the benefits. Doesn't that sound lovely....

I want companies out of health insurance. What is wrong with a plan where the company issues you a voucher for healthcare that coveres whatever insurance policy you currently have. Now, you can stay in your current plan or buy another policy..now the policy has your name on it. The fact is your company sees paying you health care benefits as an expense and thus motivated to reduce this expense. It is usually reduced by increasin your deductible or reducing your coverage.... hey,,,I can do that or not.

Now here is the beauty of the voucher..now every company that provides their employees healthcare, will provide vouchers..so if you leave company A for company B..you carry your policy with you and guess what company B provides you a voucher, part of your employment terms. It gets better, really. Small businesses are creating most of the new jobs in this country. Really they are, including self employed people. Now, they do not have to compete with big companies to provide healthcare,,they can provide vouchers for their employees because thise employees will already have their own health care policy. Of course, all those people in HS in health benefits can start working in more productive areas.

As individuals, we have responsibility, yes we do. At the same time we have control of our own healthcare. But wait there is more.....We all get concerned if we arelet go, how do we keep our health care or under my system...voucher.... the state provides unemployoment insurance,....well the health insurance voucher is a large part, now of your salary. You pay separately for Unemploymeny Health Insurace....you got it. You lose your job this insurance continues to pay your voucher..you are basically covered.

Oh, I hearit now..but if I try to buy health insurance on my own it is so much more expensive. Of course, it is, the system has been distorted to where heath insurance is provided through massive groups..no one wants to deal with the individual...but once you do....well that little salamander will be calling you and offering you quotes on lower cost health insurance. The plan is radical but it is American..individual ownership, self responsibility and taking charge of your own destiny.

Hey it's radical..but any other way and we will be continuing to talk about a healthcare crisis.

Good Neighbors

2006-08-10T16:58:00.000-07:00

As I reaad and watch endless news coverage of the Isreali Lebanon ( Hezbollah ) crisis or war I find my self saying Lebanon needs to a better neighbor. Yes, they brats, Hezbollah running around throwing racks at their neighbor and doing nothig about it. So all Israel can do is teach your kids a lesson. Then again I do not live in Israel or Lebanon. This I feel somewhat detached from the entire crisis. I live in the United States of America. So what do I think of our proximate neighbors. I doubt Canada or Mexico will be attacking the US anytime soon but are they good neighbors. Let's see..oh yeah..the world is smaller place, so I guess I have to write piece on the world..but you can't drive to say France or Russia. but you can drive to Canada and Mexico or they ca walk here, so I will be a simpleton and focus o the proximate neighbors or overland neighbors.

CANADA

I have to admit to be born in Canada, so yes this will be toattly objective. Canad is a good neighbor. They do a pretty good job of keeping out the miscreants and other low lifes... mostly they do a decent job of protecting the US from well, terrorists. IN fact they actually break up terrorist plots. Mind you, the most recent ones are charmingly referred to the gang that couldn't shoot straight.

Of course, with gay marriage, decriminalised marijuana and a lower drinking age, one has to imagine Canada as the neighbor who is throwing a wild party, hippie commune and den of iniquity. It may seem that way but they are polite and are certain to turn off the loud music by 10 pm. Alos, Canada has a pretty nice house lots of land, aside from cheap cotton goods and shrimp, there is very little Canada covets from the United States. Of course we all know of the unlonest unprotected border in the world. Let's leave it that way...a fence would hurt the view from the kitchen.

So Canada is a good neighbor or neighbour, to keep them happy. They throw a heck of a party and yes all Americans are welcome, just remember to clean up after yourself. And the neat thing is you can do anything there and no one will tell.....

MEXICO

OK not a very good neighbor, not your Lebaono neighbor but let's face it. They have a messy backyard and they want all our stuff. They really do. We would prefer they fix up their place. Imstead, they would rather play in our backayard and pool. Some people let them provided they clean the pool and mow the lawn, literally. Then you have those Americans who tell Mexico to go get their own pool.

Now Mexico covets everything America has...hey we sent them WalMarts isn't that enough? Also, they trespass and really don't even ask..really, drink your lemonade. Whenever Mexico throws a party, America pays..it just does not seem fair....then again look at Mexico's neighbors and one can appreciate their own dilemna.

Canada is by far the luckiest countrry in the world if you think about it. They only have one neighbor, the US of A

Bush's worst nightmare

2005-10-23T18:18:00.000-07:00

The nice thing about videotape is you always get the chance to loook at it later, even two years later. This week the prosecutor may hand down indictments for Rove, Libby and others for having leaked the name of Valerie Plame. That would be devastating to this adminstration but at least the decision will be clearcut. Rove and Libby and possibly others resign. There will be the press conferences and statements.

If no idicymenst are handed down but the special prosecutor's report staes Rove, Libby and possibly others did indeed leak the name of Valerie Plame but that act in itself did not rise to an indictable act, then roll tape. In September, 2003 said if there was a leak in "my" administration, he would basically deal with. The statement was in responseto a reporter's quaestion and obviously an unscripted moment. The use of "my administration" is intriguing. He took ownership of that situation. This would toss the president into an area he does not enjpy, the grey area. He won an election by not parsing words. He won the election because middle America knew where he stood on Iraq, terrorism, and a myriad of issues. He would then have to explin what he meant by he would handle the leakers. Middle America would not accept a slap on the wrist. They would not expect anything less than Rove and Libby being fired and tossed out of the White House. Nothing less than the values argument is at stake, here.

Yet, the president would find homself very alone in that moment. Obviously, he cannot consult with Rove or Cheney whose hands may not exactly be clean. Rumsfeld would be of no use and Condi Rice needs to avoid this, if she inrends to run on 2008. Finally, Harriett Miers is of no use. That leaves Scott McClelland and Andrew Card. You can guess Scott's answer after being misled. Andrew Card may be helpful....but the president is pretty much alone. He has to weigh his firendship and loyalty to Karl Rove against the values that broght him the presidency.

In the end, the indictments relieve him of this burden.

Screaming Fire in a Crowded Theather

2005-10-09T17:36:00.000-07:00

The constitution protects free speech....how ever it has been said you cannot scream fire in a crowded theater and hide behind the first amendment. We almost had that in evidence this past week in New York City. This is how I view the most recent elevated terror alert in the New York City subway system and the continued flubs by the White House, especially Homeland Security. It should be called Homeland Insecurity. I have not felt any safer since this bureaucracy was created.

Lets start with the likely real story and not the ones put forth by the Mayor. The real story is somehow, WNBC channel 4 got a tip or some information regarding a "possible" terrorist plot whereby terrorists may bomb the subway system. Their preferred mode of delivery may have been a briefcase, pretty original, or a baby stroller. The televisions station contacted the mayor's office who decided triumphantly to advise the city o the threat before WNBC went with the story. Never mind checking the facts or how credible the threat is.....let's panic the public.

The mayor and police commisioner in a comical news conference advise the public to be careful on the subway and avoid carrying packages, especially baby strollers, backpacks and brief cases. Keep in mind, 4.7 million New Yorkers use the subway every day to get to work. I live in New Jeresy and visit "the city" once a month. Now, how do you tell a person going to their office, to leave home their briefcase. How do you expect these people to carry their lunch. Never mind those papers the may need at the office. The mayor advised his citizens to look for suspicious individuals.....everyone in New York looks suspicious...look for the normal people and see what is wrong with them. There has not been an incident.....but the mayor could only do what he can. He was advised the report they had an important degree of specificity.

The real Keystone Cops in this holy mess is that unholy trinity of Homeland Security, the White House and the media, in this case. They left Mayor Bloomberg out in the cold. Let's start with Scott McCullen who in a press conference, during the debacle, stated the source was not credible. President Bush in the middle of another embarassing episode for Homeland Security, stated they were getting better at sharing information with local officials...but perhaps not quite as efficient as they were at sharing it with the media. So, let's square the president's remarks with his spokesman. Indeed, both are credible, if not their sources of information. So, Homeland Security shares with local officials ( and the media ), specific information that may not be credible. I am going to blow up the Empire State Building at 10:15 a.m. Monday, with a bomb on the seventeenth floor..is that specific enough? As for credibility, not so much!! I guess this is better than two years ago when Homeland Security had news conferences regarding credible informationregarding an imminent attack but no specificity. They have come so far.

After the FEMA debacle in the Gulf......huh, we do not help directly, our role is to coordinate.... and now this, it is time to recognize Homeland Security for what it is, a bloated bureaucracy, totally inept at any kind of communication or coordination. Let' s get rid of the thing and replace it by a leader who is capable of keeping the disparate agencies in line and talkingto each other. Actually, that is what the President should do but he gave up on that, a long time ago....not enough good photo ops.

Rovegate... a follow up

2005-10-08T12:30:00.000-07:00

On July 27, I posted a blog regarding Karl Rove and how his role in the Valerie Plame affair may upset the presidency..or at least give the democratic party a few seats in the upcoming midterm elections. If course I did not expect how much the White House would bungle the response to Hurricane Katrina. This was not a good summer for the Republicans and well, Fall is not looking very good, too.

Now, Karl Rove is being recalled to testify in front of the Grand Jury. How is he going to square his testimony with that of Matt Cooper. The latter named him as a source. Before we begin feeling sorry for Karl Robe's plight, losing his job, at a minimum, at worse a prison sentence, let's not forget what he may have done. He disclosed the name of a CIA operative. Well, so did Scooter Libby. But ir shws to what extent this man is willing to go to defame others. He has taken glee in attcking the patriotism of liberals. He has distorted facts, twisted arms and bullied people to force through a neo-conservative agenda. He will do anything. So, I will not feel sorry for him and neither should you.

Karl Rove is a con artist. He is more dangerous than your average grifter, though. This grifter is very close to the center of power. He has access to your pocketbook and state secrets. Is this the individual you want lurking in the halls on the White House? He abused his powers. I hope the judge considers this along with a perjury charge.

After Rove's grand jury testimnoy, George W. Bush will have little choice bit to fire him and ban him from the White House. That will be the cry from both sides of the House. The president is loyal to his friends. This is an admirable quality. Karl Rove is a scoundrel and does not deserve that trust.

"New" New Orleans ..let's get it right this time

2005-10-02T08:45:00.000-07:00

I have visited New Orleans quite a few times in the past few years..usually conventions or trade shows. In fact, I was scheduled to be there the last wek in September. I was never impressed by New Orleans. During my last trip I dined with a colleague at one of New Orleans finest establishemnts, Antione's. The food was excellent and the best smoked gumbo I have ever had. My colleague bemonaned the fact that the city has become so low brow. It used to be a great city with outstanding restaurants and jazz. It had all the elements to be a world class, French and Spnaish influence in Cuisine and African American jazz. It was all there. Unfortunately, the city decided to become a touirist mecca without handing its infrastructure problems. The convention center in so far away from Bourbon Street, one needs to take a cab. The convention center, itself was becoming old and dated. Your typical executive would prefer not to do business in New Orleans or hold conventions, there. Reason being, the city has become associated with drunkenness and crime. I have heard of stories where speakers had to cancel their talks because they had partied all night. Bourbon Street is no more than one T-shirt shop after another. Many a conventioneer has been warned to avoid all side streets off Bourbon Street.

The city needs to renew itself after this tragedy. That is why I believe Mayor Nagin's call to have residents return is plain stupid. Before anyone returns to New Orleans, permanaently, he owes it to his citizens to present a master plan....beyond fixing the levees. His call is no better than the plantation master calling back his slaves. If this offends, so be it...I am a liberal. The pooreer residents of New Orleans were trapped in their homes. They had no means to evacuate. You do not begin repopulating those areas. What is the rush, anyway? In fact, if the poorer residents find employment elsewhere and a life..... wish them the best...that is true America.

I mentioned a Master Plan, didn't I? Well. here are my recommendations:

(1) Do not allow the government to solve the problem. They could not fix the levees. As such they are part of the problem. Their role is to provide an environment so investors are willing to come back. That inculdes effective law and order and getting rid of curruption. The goverment needs its own hurricane sweeping through it.

(2) The private sector will solve the problem...... i fyou have not noticed despite the recnet slowdown, this country is on a continuing real estate boom. Yes and the land around New Orleans in prime real estate...near the Gulf and warmer, albeit, more humid climate. The provate sector would build better homes and more solid construction. Obviously, these homes will be more expensive. Yes, New Orleans could become a prime place for retirees....active communities.

As for displaced residents, developpers are very generous in this way. The government could even stipulate it.... I am certain there will be many takers....

(3) The government's role is limited to reasonable zoning, demanding green spaces be built with water features, designed as retention ponds.....and yes, in exchange for the property they turn over to developpers, they may request the builing of low to moderate income housing. Again, if the private sevtor begins investing heavily, they have a reason to invest in the needed infrastructure

(4) As for the downtown area...it should be allowed to keep its charm but needs a face lift. That will only happen with stricter bylaws.... I am not suggesting we turn New Orleans into Disney World....but closer to what the Las Vegas strip has become. Above all else, New Orleans has to become high brow, once again...... and that is not easy.

Let's not pour monet down the drain in New Orleans.. instead let's provide seed money and the environment to allow the city to renew itself.

Rovegate

2005-07-27T18:56:00.000-07:00

Karl Rove may have unintentionally leaked the name of Valerie Plame. But the real story is where will the ongoing investigation lead. These investigations take their own course. Special Prosecutor Fitzgerald has been at this for a while, too long, to uncover the name of who leaked the name. Now we know he has called George Tenet and other top CIA officials. Wouldn't you have loved to be a fly on the wall for that testimony. Just as the Whitewater investigation led by Kenneth Starr spawned the Monica Lewis affair, this can lead to the real cover up in this case...What did President Bush really know when he made the case for war in Iraq.

Say what you want about Karl Rove, he would not reveal the name of a CIA operative. That would be unAmerican. Karl Rove would not break that law and he is too smart. In his zeal to get back at Joe Wilson, he let slip the name of Valerie Plame. Once he did that, he had to give Bush cover. That meant not telling him he may have ben the leak. He is loyal to George Bush and would not drop that burden on him. Also, Rove may have believed the leak was elsewhere. To this day, I still doubt he has told the President he may have been the leak. Karl Rove will resign and mainain his dignity and he will return to his best role, the whisperer. But, just like Watergate he may have unwittingly given the Democratic Party, a prize they never expected...the presidency.

The President called for an investigation into this leak. He had no choice. Now, he has a special prosecutor looking into places, he may not want him to look and speaking to people, he would prefer be kept quiet. Had Karl Rove come forth, all this would have been handled. Just as in Watergate and Whitewater, it is not the crime but the cover up. It appears that is what we have here. Will we finally learn through this investigation, what intelligence the president really had in making the case for Iraq? Will we uncover a plan to go to war...no matter what?

So, thank you, Karl, you really stepped in it this time.

In Defense of Howard Dean

2005-06-08T18:59:00.000-07:00

The Democratic Party is once again eating one of their own. Indeed, Howard Dean has uttered some controversial statements, recently. As the Chairman of the Democratic Party, he is being assailed by his own party. Joe Biden and a cast of others are disassociating themselves with Dr. Dean. The Chairman of the Republican Party has never launched outrageous statements towards against the Democratic Party. I don't mind what Dr. Dean said. It is about time somebody in the Democratic Party does express some outrage. Let's not forget Howard Dean energized the base of the party. He was at the grassroots and yes he had the courage to attack President Bush on the war being wrong. He was ahead of the curve.

Let's analyze the statements he made. The first was no one in the Republican Party worked an honest day. He did not mean Republicand. He meant the leaders of the party, Presindent Bush, Cheney and Haliburton, Tom Delay.... He said the Republican Party is a white Christian Party. The point is the aprty is not the big inclusive tent, it claims to be. Dr. Dean is expressing his outrage, yes. The Democratic Party leadership should stand au and say...Howard Dean is expressing the frustration we all feel. Instead, they muzzle him. The election is three and a half years away and the Democrats are afraid of offending anyone. They are campaigning, already. I don't think Howard Dean should be trhe Chairman. He has a higher calling, leader of the party. I would rather see Howardd Dean lose than a middle of the raod candidate. The middle class is being assaulted in this country. The poor are ignored.... deliver us Howard Dean. We need a change.

A good couple of weeks for Liberals

2005-05-18T09:24:00.000-07:00

Hey, we have had a good couple of weeks, really...consider

Dennis Miller.....It started with the Dennis Miller show being canceled by CNBC. I always liked and enjoyed Dennis Miller. I was not crazy about his right turn. I always thought of Dennis Miller, as a down the middle person. So, I did not judge his show because of his conversion. The fact is he was no longer funny. He became impish. His style become confrontational. He was no longer funny. The only part of his show worth watching was the Varsity Panel. There, too, he began to berate liberal memebers of the panel. I am glad CNBC came to its senses. I wonder who Dennis will blame.

Social Security...W's plan continues to flounder. His own party is no longer returning his phone calls. W is running around the sky is falling, except whne it comes to providing tax decreases to the wealthiest Americans.

John T. Bolton...He is being sent to senate without a recommendation from the comittee. Well, then, why bother with the committee. His confirmation hearings exposed him as a self absorbed ideologue who is elective with the facts. He walks over employees and blocks reports that did not support his view of the world. No wonder, W wants him. The UN needs a reformer not a bull in the China shop. This is our best pick for an Ambassador. I guess W has decided we have not made enough enemies.

The filibuster...... The idea of a senator filibustering is never appealing. I assume this action is never taken lightly. But let's go ahead and change the constitution for the sake of nominating conervative activist judges. Great move, I am certain the electorate will thank you in 2006.

Finally, George took a victroy lap in Eastern Europe on the 60th anniversary of VE day. I don't recall W fighting in WWII or any war, for that matter. The hubris he demonstrated had no bounds. The idea that VE day ended the war for only a part of Europe. Others continued to fight!! The man wishes to rewrite history, now. Good move, George, if you were around you would have beat Hitler, then what what attack Stalin.... Just what the world needed then, a deeper World War....

Walmart..the solution to the Healthcare crisis

2005-04-18T16:49:00.000-07:00

I am not a fan of WalMart. For better or worse, the majority of this country and Canada disagrees with me. Everyone else seems to love WalMart. Well, they may not love WalMart but certainly enjoy shopping there. WalMart really does not care whether you love them, they just want you to shop there and you will be rewarded with low prices. Wal Mart does do that. They are able to deliver products and services more efficiently, and thus have lower prices. It demonstrates free markets operating at their best.

No one needs a dose of the free markets behaving correctly more than the healthcare industry. Let's face city hospitals have outlived their usefulness. They are great if you live in a city. They happen to be convenient. Most of us live the suburbs or exurbs. We are closer to shopping malls and big box stores, like Walmart. Next, most of the large city hospitals are located on some pretty expensive real estate. Most of these hospitals could be converted, indeed some are, into co-ops. So we keep the teaching hospitals and the the more important ones. I have always wondered why people living in half million dollar homes or more have to schlep into the city to get decent medical care.

Next WalMart runs the diagnostic clinics and some hospitals. In the Walmart hospital you are greeted by a retired nurses or a nurse who are simply fed up with hospitals. The WalMart Hospital would only have a main level and a lower level with a coffee shop run by McDonalds. . You give the nurse your symptoms and select from a list of possible diagnostic tests, X-ray, blood test, urine test, MRI...of course you would be provided with a price list. You decide what tests are needed. My wife has diagnosed herself with more accuracy than most doctors. Let's face it with the net and Websites like WebMD. you have all the information you need. It's a new world, the doctor can no longer leverage information against you.

The technicians take the X-rays and results are e-mailed to India to be read. You see a doctor, only after you have had the diagnostic tests have been completed and a report is available. The doctor would have to spend no more than fifteen minutes with you deciding whether you need more tests or provide a diagnosis or treatment. Being WalMart, they would have a Walgreen, next door. All this may be provided for a fraction of the cost....

Meanwhile, your spouse may continue shopping for the day. Your time is spent more efficiently and you would not have to pay for parking. Hey, do you have a better idea?

Career Advice: One step ahead of the falling dominoes

2005-04-18T15:56:00.000-07:00

When you get close to a quarter century with the same company you reflect back on your career. I made that mistake the other day. I realized the four positions I had, no longer exist. The image was sobering. All I have done is kept one step ahead of the falling dominoes. That is the way it goes today. If you think the grass is greener on the other side. During my tenure with my company, I had two opportunities to move to another company. I have learned both those jobs have also been abolished. The dominoes fall around me. The analogy of falling dominoes is much closer to the truth than you may believe. Mt company, other companies do not see departments, business groups, regional offices as individuals. They are faceless, when the positions are abolished, they are all abolished at once just like the dominoes toppling each other, in a stampede.

My wife has unfortunately been in the path of the falling dominoes three times. She was an excellent worker, well educated but ended up in departments which were eventually dismantled. Her reviews were excellent. Once the dominoes fell, there was no room for her within the company. Despite her excellent work ethic, other departments were protecting their domino.

You would think my story is one of survival. It is, in fact part survival, part thriving. You do need both. I know quite a few people, friends and family who got caught in the falling dominoes. These are good people who just could not get out of the way of the falling dominoes. I now feel compelled to provide some career advice:

1) Move on..... You can bet the job you have now will not exist in a few years, it will be reorganized, restructured, abolished...when? I have no idea. But it will one day be in the path of the falling dominoes. You best defense is to continually renew yourself. Be prepared to accept another position..even it is a "lateral" promotion.

2) Look for the signs and react........ New technologies often lead to falling dominoes. Yeah, computers were going to make our jobs easier..no, it just meant you no longer needed a typist. Companies no longer need regional outposts. If you think you could work in a satellite office like the Midwest, forget it. Be ready to move your office home or yourself to the head office. Another sign is any change in top management. If you disagree with the new rules, start planning to leave, now.

3) If you are caught in the falling dominoes, take my advice, it is not personal. You were at the wrong place at the wrong time. You need that attitude when you begin looking for another job. After all, the reason you had your job in the first place is because other dominos fell. Accept it as a company renewing itself.

4) Here is the good news, you have more time than you think. Pay attention. Whenever companies begin to lean one way, rule of thumb, it takes one to three years to act. You are in fact more nimble than the organization. So you do have plenty of time to "move on", distinguish yourself. You have to do it because once those dominos fall they fall quickly and without regard to who may be in the path. If you decide not to do anything, and many people do

The answer is not always to move with a company. If I had done that, I would have been twice unemployed. Always be prepared to learn and accept anything new within your company

So, I will celebrate a quarter century with the same company, even though the company has had five different names. Yes, my company renews itself constantly.

Shopping at BJ's

2005-04-06T18:15:00.000-07:00

This Sunday my wife said we were shopping at BJ's Wholesale Club. We had received a $10.00 coupon in the mail towards a one year membership...and on top of that we get 3 free months. So, instead of $40.00 for a one year membership, we got 15 months for $30.00, saving us a grand total of $1.33 for the privilege of shopping there. The concept of paying to shop is something I aprreciate.in fact, I would like to see every retail store have a cover charge or two drink minimum.

I research BJ's on the net. I am about to google BC...no..quite the sites I had hoped to find find. I tried BJ's wholesale club. They have a website www.bjs.com. That is one letter away from a website, I would rather not visit, especially on Sunday. The have everything. I decide we should go. Hah.

Once at BJ's we were processed. We provide two forms of ID and had our mug shot takes. Just what I needed one more useless ID picture. Oh well, this will stop all those freeloaders trying to shop at BJ's Wholesale for free. It is exactly those cheats who have caused membership fees to skyrocket to $40.00 per year unless you have a coupon.

Once inside, my cynicism fell. The place is a wonder of the shopping world. Grocery on steroids. Where else can you buy one gallon containers of peanut butter, vats of margarine and pounds, not ounces of dry roasted peanuts. So we did what every American should do in such an auspicious place. We got a cart and shopped. I left my wife to the more mundane food products and went to the man's area...grills and big screen TV's.

A gas grill got my attention....I have one, already..but this is BJ's. The cooking area measured not in square inches but square feet. Where else would you the 20 pound rib rolls sold at BJ's. My grill could not handle it. Iy came with two gas cylinders and an optional tank farm. I passed. Then I saw it a plasma TV. A 42 inch plasma TV for $1799. I was hoping no one else knew about this. I summoned the electronics expert in the store. Ok, he wore a BJ's tag and was in the same aisle as me. I asked him him about the 42 inch plasma TV. I asked him what it was, he answered $1799., if you are a member, after all membership has its privileges. I asked what looked like the area manager for electronics. OK, his tag said "Hi, may I help You." I asked him the same question and he replied it was a 42 inches plasma TV and added "Pretty good deal" That was it he had me. I had to have it. Hey it's a 42 inch plasma TV for $1800, excuse me $1799. You would have to be nuts to pass it up. I started looking for my wife.

Her cart was full with 10 pounds of Raisin Bran, five pounds of peanut butter, enough paper towels to wallpaper Trump Tower. She was stalking the Poland Spring Water. The deal was incredible, 15 cents per half liter bottle. Fifteen cents....that is almost as cheap as tap water. We passed for now. Now that we're members, we can come back any time. Although it is a bit disconcerting purchasing groceries that will outlast you.

Anyway, I am glad we are members. Security, that's why. I told my wife if there is a terrorist worse year a nuclear attack we are bunkering down at BJ's. They have everything and we're members. They have to let us in.

A culture of living

2005-03-29T15:46:00.000-08:00

The tragic Terri Schiavo story is raising and stoking cultural divise issues. Those who support re-inserting the feding tube stake their claim by adopting the "Culture of Life". This is the same slogan espoused by those who wish to eliminate abortion, beginning of life issues. Now they wish to control "end of life" issues. End of life is death but discussing "death" issues would be awful. I wish there were no abortions. Abortions represent a personal failure and a failure by our society to assist young mothers. These lives should be preserved through adoption. They sya "Choose Life". So, I guess I must chose death.

Well, I believe in the culture of living. That is the time between beginning of life and end of life. That is the part, collectively and as individuals have control. My culture of living involves having clean air and water and not allowing industries to pollute the air and water. The culture of living involves providing decent health care and not worrying aboutlosing your health care after your last pycheck. The culture of living means good education, so those who live will have good jobs, not only for only oursevles but for the generation coming behind us.

So, I can only the Republican Party is willing to embrace my culture of living as much as they embrace "culture of life". The best thiing is they are not mutually exclusive. Also, we on the left, need a slogan, too.

Terri Schiavo... theater of the absurd

2005-03-28T16:45:00.000-08:00

Like many of us, I have followed or at least tried to follow this story in hopes of understanding what good will come of this. I am sad to say, I see nothing of value arising from this. I would hope through this, we would appreciate "end of life" issues better. It was my hope someone would have the courage to step forward and see the plight of Terri Shivao and relate it to the that millions of people starve everyday and nothing is done. Perhaps this would lead legislators to look more closely at conditions in hospitals and hospices. That will not happen. Terri will die and all for not. Her plight has been exploited by politics and other so called right to life groups. We have here theater of the absurd.

Thousands of families deal with these issues every year. They handle end of life issues without the help of the courts and the government. It is a personal and a family matter. So what happened here.....

We have been drawn into what is a dysfunctionial family's problem. This train wreck started thirteen years ago, the last time Michael Schiavo and the Schindlers spoke. The acrimony is so deep between the families, they forgot about Terri. How many of us wish to go our graves, knowing our families are not at peace. Both sides lack respect for each other. I believe Michael Schiavo should have recused himself and left the decisions to the Schindlers. That could only happen if there is a dialogue between the two sides. They have themselves to blame here. The Schindlers get extra marks for hiring Randall Terry, a disgraced Christian Conservative..for having had an affair with a younger. He is a public figure and that is on the record. I have no problem making this judgment.

The public has been cheated. Both sides misrepresent the facts, to the point where trying to discuss this situation on the merits is impossible. Instead, we take a side and find ourselves arguing over the facts..what facts. It is that point my wife and I agreed it was useless discussing this issue. If there were a videotape of Terri Shiavo stating she would not wish to kept alive this way, the Schindler's lawyers would have claimed the videotape was fake. That is how far the sides are apart. To think, we could have been spared all this, if Dr. Phil or Oprah would have become involved.

It has made for compelling Reality TV... and just as silly... The sequel will be who gets the rights to the Terri Schiavo story. I am certain we will be treated to two versions. I am at the edge of my seat, waiting

Terri Schiavo,,,,the last straw for Florida.

2005-03-25T07:49:00.000-08:00

I do not have a strong opinion, one way or another on this spectacle. It is a family tragedy. I will focus on what good may come out of all this. The state of Florida should be made a ward of the Federal Government. This is the last straw. In 2000, a group of citizens tried to kidnap Ilian Gonzales. Really, they believed they were in their right to take the poor kid away from his dad. Later that year, the nation was held hostage because Floridians could not read a ballot to vote. It was then determined they could not count. Now, we have this train wreck. Apparently, washing your dirty laundry through the courts and media is the state pastime in Florida. Laws and reason, especially facts, play no role in how Floridians behave. We should take away their due process and have every Floridian take a civics course.

So, why do events in Florida hold the country? It is the hurricane syndrome. The media sends too many reporters to cover hurricanes. Any woman in a nightgown living in a trailer park can become a national spokesperson. In between hurricane seasons, they miss the attention. So, they create a national scandal. However, this is one is the last straw. The USA is a capitalist nation. This scenario is totally unproductive. Florida is a drain on the economy. Don't the Schindlers and Schiavos have jobs? What about the protestors? I would hope they have jobs. These are not productive members of the society.

On the other hand, every nation needs a Florida, a nice warm sunny place to go in the winter. It has another important role. Florida is the sink trap of the nation. But every so often, one needs clean rhe sink trap. Florida is where all the nut cases gravitate. You cannot go any further south than Florida, geographically or intellectually. The state is an amalgam of illegal immigrants, con men and other low lives. Well, the trap is full, call the plumber or get some Drano.

I am not suggesting the federal government keep it forever, just long enough so the drain works efficiently. I am for state rights....They abused them , they lose. George only has to call Jeb and explain to him he is taking over for a while. After all, wouldn't we all help our brothers with the plumbing?

English as the ONLY Official Language of the US

2005-03-20T08:43:00.000-08:00

Here is my vote for adopting English as the official language of this country. My views are very liberal on most issues ..but this is not a liberal/conservative issue. Being a resident alien of the US, I am in favor of legal immigration. I believe all countries can be enriched through immigration... Provided they join the club and play by the rules.

The fact is once English is adopted as an official language, all government documents will be available in English. That is your right. Being served, if you will, in any other language is a privilege. You cannot demand it and the government does not have to provide it. Any immigrant has an obligation to learn English. Why? For one thing it may help he or she to find a better job. Even in countries whose linguistic duality is based on history find having two official languages to be well, patently unfair. Being a Canadian, I can attest to this fact. I am fluent in French and English..And also a third language. The only reason I am fluent in French is that I lived in Quebec. If I lived in Alberta, I doubt I would be speak French.

So, why bring this up? Canada is officially bilingual. As a Canadian citizen, I have a right to be served in either French or English.....It sound so idyllic. It is anything but that. Here is what really happens..The French speaking minority, mainly from Quebec, will tend to dominate the civil service sector because well they speak French. They have a disproportionate effect on policy. The English majority feels left out, at times. The same is occurring in Belgium and other countries..... Such as the United States of America..... When was the last time you went to Motor Vehicles Department?

In many states, including New Jersey, Texas and Florida, the language being spoken is Spanish. Why? Because these states, among others have decided to offer their services in Spanish. So, if you live in any of these states and have no reason to be fluent in Spanish, well good luck getting a state job. Yes they may be clerks now, but they eventually become supervisors and administrators. That is patently unfair. I am not suggesting passing a law banning Spanish. That is prejudice. I am suggesting we adopt English as the ONLY official language in this country.

I would appreciate any comments. Thank you for reading.

Baseball, Steroids and Sportsmanship

2005-03-19T13:01:00.000-08:00

Like most sport fans, I watched as much as possible of the steroids in baseball hearings. We were led to believe baseball had a very murky policy regarding the use of illegal substances in the collective bargaining agreement. If you missed it, Bud Selig was so outraged of a policy he controlled he practically declared he would personally take any player using steroids to the shed and cane him. Well, that is what he sounded he would do. The policy was murky regarding the penalty. The commissioner at his discretion would either suspend a ballplayer for 10 days or fine him $10,000. Of course, if the player were suspended, his name would be public. The congressmen were disgusted and the lawyer for the MLB in charge of the policy did an awful job of explaining it. The reason for the latitude being provided id for players who come forward and admit to taking illegal substances. A player should not be punished to the fullest extent of the policy if they come forward, voluntarily. They do into rehab.

If a player is caught using drugs or in possession of illegal drugs, it is a criminal matter. There are examples in industry, so do not get all outraged. If you fail a drug test when applying for a job, the company does not turn its findings over to the authorities. Should a company find illegal drugs on you, aside form being fired, the company can report you to the authorities. That is the law.

The players followed a panel of families whose sons died as a result of steroid abuse. The first spectacle was totally unnecessary and only stoked the flames at the hearings. No wonder Mark McGwire, Sammy Sosa, Rafael Palmeiro and Jose Canesco must have felt they were at the Salem witch trials. As for Curt "Republican Party" Schill-ing, his sanctimonious attitude was simply too much to bear. He felt no responsibility to take action when he saw a player taking illegal substances, but had no problem calling them cheaters. So which is it? If a player on your team does it, it os not cheating but if a player on another does it is? If they were interested in learning anything the players should have been granted limited immunity.

These are pro athletes who earn big money. They are expected to perform at a high level. They will do anything they can to prolong their careers. Pro athletes today are bigger, stronger and faster. That can be traced to improved nutrition, longer workouts and greater dedication to the game. Ball players no longer show up out of shape at spring training. Have some benefited from steroids? Probably.....but steroids by themselves are controlled substances. You can get a script for steroids. Maybe if steroids were administered by physicians and the athletes monitored during their career, they would not be abused. It may be radical but why not.

Regarding the abuse of steroids by children...where are the parents...... Supplements such as creatin can effect the same results. However, if parents are willing to say it is OK to take creatin to change your body, well how far away can steroids be?

A few ideas for the NHL

2005-03-13T15:39:00.000-08:00

Hockey remains my passion. These days it is skating, mostly. Nonetheless, Hockey is a great game and the NHL does need to do something special in the off-season of they wish not only to keep their fans but grow. Here are a few ideas......

1) Open up the game. Fans would love to see more scoring. The ice surface is too small when you look at the size and speed odd the current players. The center ice area between the blue lines needs to be wider. The referees need to call the clutching and grabbing. Let's encourage more passing and skating and discourage headmanning the puck and create scrums in the offensive zone. These measures are fan but they do not address how to better market the sport and the brand.

The following measures address those points.

2) Professional Roller Hockey League..Yes...You read this right. There are presently disparate professional roller hockey leagues in North America. Many if the players in these leagues are ex hockey players or semi pro players who never made it to the NHL. The NHL should organize a professional Roller Hockey League. More Americans roller blade than ice skate because well, you do not need ice to play roller blade. Actually, I do both. Most of my team mates from my ice hockey team, play roller hockey in the summer. A couple did so, professionally. In other words, the trend is happening. The NHL should catch on to this.

The NHL should give away the rights to broadcast games to ESPN. Why not? This league would create a ready base of new ice hockey fans. Whenever I play a pick up game of ice hockey. I am surprised how many guys started playing roller hockey and decided to play ice hockey in the winter.

3) The NHL and NHLPA should sponsor a NASCAR team or even a race. There are no more loyal fans in sports today than NASCAR fans. This marriage is not as strange as it may sound. Several NASCAR drivers list ice hockey as their favorite sport. There are several parallels between NASCAR the NHL. Both sports feature speed and skill. The athletes both have pride and passion. NASCAR drivers bump each other at 200 mph. They do not see the heavy hits in hockey as anything more than just being very competitive.

So how do you promote IceHockey to NASCAR fans....the fastest sport on two legs. The speed of the game, not always caught on television. You can promote fans going to the game by offering discounts on tickets to anyone attending a NASCAR race. Finally, hockey players could attend NASCAR races and become more fan accessible.

4) When NBC does finally get around to broadcasting games, they ought to look North to see what works. The CBC has always managed to convey the speed and intensity of the game to fans with close up shots and camera angles close to the ice. Also. NBC needs their own Don Cherry. Many fans watched hockey on Saturday night just to hear what outrageous and insightful thought Don cherry would have. It should be an American who has had a colorful career in hockey. I discussed this with my wife and she suggested Chris Nilan. Chris was a talented rough and tumble player...who loves the game. He would be great in that role.

Any other ideas are welcome. I doubt Gary Bettman reads blogs, anyway.

Feeling Inadequate at Home Depot

2005-03-12T12:19:00.000-08:00

I am not handy. I have a fear of power tools. It may haveto with the noise or the fear of losing a body part..finger, toe you name it. Thus a trip to Home Depot only reminds me of this inadequacy. I go there as my wife still does not consider me hopeless. Frankly, I am pretty much hopeless. I am overwhelmed by the brochures on how I can install a ceramic floor, wood laminate floor or screens..that was a disaster. Definitely, I am less of a man.

My parents saw this inadequacy early in my life. They insist I get an education. My father tried, as did my uncles. They shook their heads as I handled a power saw, nail gun or drill. Early on they decided my role would be to carry things, wood, bricks or even handle a wheelbarrow. Later in life, I played the odds. If I try to cut that piece of wood with a power, what would be the odds of either failing or losing a figure compared to say my odds of finding someone else to do it. I calculated the risk and often decided the few dollars were worth more than the pain and suffering, not to speak of the probable dismemberment. Still, I have tool envy in Home Depot, observing the men with the big carst buying lumber, tile and bircks. Those men are going home to their power tools. All I can hope to do is to seduce a nail, maybe a couple of screws....on a good day, anything that does not involve an outside source of energy.

Yet, I continue to watch This Old House, only to elevate my hope. I can be Norm Abrams one day...NOT. I admire his workshop and what I could build with those tools if I had any talent. I have decided there are many more like me out there. I say we unite and find those of the fairer sex made to feel inadequate by Martha Stewart. I know we are out there with all the free time in the world to blog.

The promise of the interent

2005-03-10T19:18:00.000-08:00

I blog therefore I must believe in the promise of the internet. Ihave had many doubts about whether the interet has truly brought us together or made us more productive. One cannot argue the internet has made us all better consumers. With the abundnace of search engines and consumer information, we are now able more than ever to lever information whne purchsing goods. That informatio may be the best price in the area to auction sites to knowing the latest incentives and rebates being offered on new cars. Here, the internet has delivered. Capitalism lives.

The internet was also supposed an amazing tool to bring us closer and provide greater understanding. Here it has failed. The internet is after all a tool and nothing more. We remain failed humans. Instead of drawing us together, the internet has polarized us. People on the net will ultimately search for those like minded people. It is not and open exchange and it is definitely not the town hall. The abundance of websites promoting extreme points of view is proof of that. Again, it is not the internet, it is the people whao are flawed and frankly the net cannot resolve that situation.

The more worrisome aspect of the net is that it is easilt abused. There are no filters. No one will edit or fat check this piece, for example. An entire generation is following who use the net as their primary source of innformation. They conntinually narrow their searches until they read the news that suits them. They read opinions which agree with their point of view. The book "Killing Time" by Caleb Carr is a sobering example of the power of the net and digitization. In the book, a business manipulates the news and photographs, digitally chnging history. Is it possible? Well the technology is there, as is the medium, the net.

So, I will continue to read the New York Times and other papers. I doubt the net can be fixed... especially as it is only a tool. Let's hope this tool doe snmot become the only tool in communication and information. My hope is that humanity becomes more open minded. We can still use our own filters. No one has taken that away from us.

Security Information TMI

2005-02-28T16:58:00.000-08:00

This blog follows on my earlier theme of Fear being Unamerican.

Today we learn the CIS has intercepted communications between Osama bin Laden and Zarqawi, whereby Osama bin Laden has instructed Zarqawi to expand his terror attacks beyond Iraq, includind the US. The intercepts are credible. However, there was no specific information on what attacks are being planned. That was released by the Department of Homeland Security.

What good is this information to the public? Really, what are we expected to do with this information. This is Too Much Information. I am glad to hear the CIA is doing their job. Then again they were doing their job in 2001. It is not important that I know or anyone knows what Zarqawi may be planning, if anything. This news release does not allow us to be anymore secure. Instead, it spreads fear. It basically says...we are the CIA and look we are doing our job. Or perhaps, the Homeland Security Department is saying....see how the CIA are doing their job, now.

Well thanks for the info, right now, I am delaing with a snowstorm. Maybe the Homeland Security Department can shovel my driveway. They appear pretty good at shovelling other items.

Being Good Neighbors

2005-02-28T13:53:00.000-08:00

The headlines have read Canada is opting out of NORAD. Primie Minister Paul Martin is caving in to his constutuency. These are very strong words. I am a Canadian. I live in the U.S. Here is my viewpoint. Canadians want NORAD the North American Radar Defense. I doubt Canadians want back out of it. We know it remains necessary. Prime Minister Paul Martin is suggesting Canada should be at the table when a missile is launched in protection of any incoming missiles. Expecially, if that missile is fired over Canada. The prime minister is claiming Canadian sovereignty. Is the prime minister playing politics...no. He is reflecting the desire of Canadians, myself included.

So exactly what is happening here? Canada is standing up to the US... perhaps. Whenver I start these discussions, I have to add... Canadians do not hate Americans. In fact, we like Americans. So, let's not start with any anti-Canada demonstrations. In a nutshell, Canadians see a resident and an administartion that cannot be trusted with the button. They are pretty nervous especially when this missiles fly over our country. This would never have been an issue if Clinton or Kerry would be president. Canadians see a president who launched into a war on less than credible information, dare I say fudged. This administration is intent on launching another war. Canadians do not view President Bush as being very stable. Can you blame us for saying before you begin lobbying nuclear missiles over our country, we would like to be sure you ahev all your ducks in a row.

Canadians recognize the US has right and a duty to protect itself. Canadians would horrified at what happened on 9/11 and would do everything they can to see it never happnes again. They have always recognized its role in the defense of the United States continent. That is why NORAD exists. The prolem is not with NORAD. The problem is with the current administration. The problem is not with the American people.

An aside... President Bush spent last week trying to mend fences. He received a lukewarm reception. Nice words. Europeans saw a president who is losing the support of his greatest ally and neighbor, Canada. Perhaps is he spent more time regaining the trust of Canadians, he may find a better reception in Europe.

Hockey Lives,,,the game survives

2005-02-21T10:33:00.000-08:00

http://www.cbc.ca/story/sports/national/2005/02/20/hockey-record050220.html

My disappointment the NHL could not reach an agreement is pretty high.

However, in looking for good news about hockey, I came across the article above. It speaks volumes. Forty guys playing hockey for 240 consecutive hours...to raise for money for charity. This is the spirit of the game.

The NHL may be saved

2005-02-19T06:20:00.000-08:00

In my last blog, I was pretty high on the possibility of the NHL returning. You could well imagine how I felt this past Wednesday and Thursday. To rub salt in the wound, I just happen to be in Montreal, the real home of the NHL, on business. My office was in the same building as the NHL offices. Today, it appears the season, at least part of it will be saved.

I was somewhat consoled y the headline in the Canadian National paper. There was a picture of a boy playing hockey out doors on a lake. The headline in bold print read "The Game Survives". That is how I felt. Despite the fact, the seaon may be cancelled, the game will continue.

Today, it appears after all the brinksmanship, there may be a season. When Bob and Gary could not get a deal done, who assumed the role of mediators, no less than two of the player's greatest players, Wayne Gretzky and Mario Lemieux. Behind the scenes, they set aside their pride and as team owners, they knew the season needed to be saved. They are hockey players. Two of the games gratest rivals set aside their differences and worked to save the game. I hope they do it. They will do it. There is no NHL player who has not looked up to these two. Every player knows the reason they are being paid as well as they are is due to the popularity injected into the game by Wayne and Mario. Indeed, it took hockey players even, as owners to broker a deal. They love the game and are grateful for their playing career. They are also Canadian. They saved their game.

After all this, the owners should fire Gary Bettman and the players should fire Bob Goodenow. They should elect Wayne Gretzky as commisioner. Wayne is a leader. He has earned the respect of both players and owners. As for the NHLPA, their next representative should be a former player. Wayne Gretzky is a good businessman. NHL has never needed Wayne more. As for Mario, he had a great careers cut short y injuries, including cancer. Mario Lemieux has earned my admiration and respect. These two may only a high school diploma. They never went to college, foresaking it for a career in hockey. Next time you hear Mario speak, keep n mind, he only began speaking English when he moved to Pittsburg. They are both very articulate, straightforward and frank. The NHLPA and NHL can have all the MBA's and Harvard grads in the background. The faces of hockey, though, should be Wayne Gretzky and Mario Lemieux.

Let's have a hockey season

2005-02-15T17:01:00.000-08:00

This blog is for hockey fans, only. Reason being, I doubt anyone else cares. So, your opinion on this matter means nothing. The non-hockey fans have already let it be known they do not care if there is a hockey season. They have that opinion whether or not there is a strike.

Now for the fans of the greatest game on the world. I say we save the season. Will the season be meaningful, my response is yes. The format is 28 regular season games followed by a complete playoff. I may have preferred say a 40 game season followed by a truncated playoff. Instead of 16 teams there would be 8 teams. So let's examining the format presented...28 game full playoff. That would be a 1/3 regular season. Typically the season starts in October and ends in in late June. That is a nine month season. This season would be 4 and one half months. I would say this is enough time to indeed declare a Stanley Cup Champion. So let's go for it.

The 28 game sprint to make it to the next round sets up another dynamic. For one thing, every game will count more. That cannot be a bad thing. Now, let me add, you do have to earn a spot playoffs. There are 30 teams and 16 make it. That is a little over then half the teams. That is about the same rate as in pro basketball. If you consider March Madness, aout half the eligible college teams make it. So, hockey is not alone in its so called generous policy of allowing teams to compete for the ultimate prize. And for all you purists, when there was 6 teams, 4 made it or 2/3.

The other dynamic are pocketbook issues. Players will be paid 1/3 of their salaries. If you are making Jarogmir Jagr or Chris Pronger money, you lose a lot but you are still doing OK. Now what about the player who makes the $450K minimum. You will earn $150K for playing 28 games. Here were the payouts last year for teams who qualified for the playoffs. The assumption is twenty players per team.....making it to the first round, $13K, second round $22.5 K, Semifinal $50K, Final $80K, Stanley cup Champion $120K. Every player's dream is to win the cup. That is aove all else. However, this season, moving on in the playoffs becomes that much more important for players earning the minimum salary. I expect the format will provide for an intense 28 game sprint followed by a more intense playoff , as players will be less tired. It may not be a representative season, but I still believe we can crown a Stanley Cup Champion. That team could say they have earned. Let's face it, once those blades and sticks hit the ice, we will be at the games, glues to our TV sets and just happy to see the boys on the ice, again.

I have to add one thing. As a hockey player, I remain pretty upset at the league, the owners and the players. Did we have to go this far to learn that the players would accept a fair hard cap provided it was not linked ot revenues? Really, we could have been at this point in August. The owners and players should have sat down and worked on what could be done to improve the game, i.e. increase revenue. That is the central problem. Instead they bickered over the meat left on the bones. The game is great. Ask anyone who has played it. I am pretty much disgusted at the executives on both sides on the table. However, I do not intend to punish the sport. So, let's drop the puck and get on with it.

Un-Social Security

2005-02-14T17:03:00.000-08:00

Our generous and benelovent president has devised a plan that will not only save social security but in all likelihood save your retirement and guarantee every American a turkey at Thanksgiving. One month into his lame duck term and the man is pursuing his legacy. Apparently, spreading freedom to every country is simply not enough.

What do they say about a man earing gifts? It seems to apply to Dubya more than others. His grand plan involves allowing every American to invest 2% of their income set aside for Social Security into private accounts. A whole 2%... now there is a plan. He will also save you from those unsrupulous brokers, his friends, from overcharing you brokerage fees. Apparently, his messianic charm will convince them not to charge you any money. Also, Dubya will have a list of save places to invest your money. The man is Godlike in his ability to guarantee a positive return on yout money, better than T-bills, for example. Dubya is well known for his business acumen. Heck, he ran several oil companies into the ground and has never appeared to lose a cent of his own money. As you can see, how can his plan go wrong?

Let's start with some simple facts. 1) His plan will allow one at most to invest $1600. per year in private accounts. Yes, once you reach the social security limit, aout $76,000 in wages you are capped. So, $1600.is generous. Now, find me the broker who would be excited about $1600. There are not many. Especially, when you invest every pay period. They would practically have to waive their fees to make his plan work. 2) Social Security is a social program by definition. This is the equivalent of saying you may defer paying taxes if you could do a better job on your own of protecting the country, waging a private war, fixing the streets or policing the neighborhood. I am fortunate enough I may not have to rely on Social security for retirement. What right do I have to squirrle away private funds? Not much.....

One only has to understand the radical agenda, here. The one Dubya and his firends really have in mind. They do not want to partially privatize Social Security. They wnat to privatize it all. Once that happens it no longer exists. In fact, you are now cut loose and completely on your own. I hope your kids love you. If he really wants to save social security, he ought to do what Clinton suggested..invest the surplus in the market in higher returning funds. That would make sense.

Let's pretend for a moment Dubya really cares about your retirement. After all that is what Social Security is all about. The first step he can take is easy. Encourage young people to begin saving. Yes, encourage saving instead of consumption. All he has on the table is 2% of your salary. If you are in your twenties and cannot begin setting aside 2% of your salary, there is a problem. You do not need to wait to retire to be poor. You are poor, now. Now, I max out my social security contribution. Why should I be allowed to set aside $6000 into what amounts a tax free retirement account. I earn more than the cap. Why not allow everyone to increase their contriution to the maximum level, tax free. Think about it. Most Americans do not take full advantage of 401 K's. That is a problem right there. Again, encourage saving at a very young age...discourage consumption....

His plan is tepid and like every other plan masks the real agenda. So, beware of the man bearing gifts. Social Security is not in trouble, not yet....let Dubya have his way, not only will Social Security be in trouble but so will your retirement.

And thus ends my hockey playing days

2004-11-13T13:20:00.000-08:00

This is not really as sad as it appears. I strained my knee or perhaps tore a ligament last week in my knee. The fact is that it realy did not make a difference. I was treated in emergency for the pain and the diagnosis is end stage arthritis. It is utterly hopeless for my knee. I actually thought and hoped I would have a few more years of ice hockey in me. Indeed, I might ut the pain and seeing myself continue to lose a step on the ice is simply not worth it. The fact is (was) I have been a candidate for a new knee.

The decision to stop playing came very easily. In fact, even accepting the fact I need a new knee came very easily. I am looking forward to living without pain when I walk and less swelling. So, my new goal is finding the best new knee. The technology is fascinating and improving every year. My goal is hold off the operation until I can assess what is the est course of treatment. Apparently, I can golf or owl after knee surgery without any problem. Ice skating may be possible.

I think I will hang on to this name for a while.

Fear is UnAmerican

2004-07-28T09:42:00.000-07:00

Listening to the speeches from the Democratic Convention, I believe that they are striking a chord with the people, not only Democrats but the rest of this country.

I grew up in Canada. Americans impressed me always and even today with their swagger. They had that confidence. There was nothing that could not be done and no challenge that could not be met. They were in my eyes, totally unafraid. I have begun to develop that American swagger. I fight my instincts and do my best to rise to any occasion. I became unafraid, I became an American. I fly almost weekly. Do I worry about it? No, not at all. If someone decides to blow up he plane, there is very little I can do about it. I have a belief that the system and the diligence of the American people would not allow that to happen. We are, after all, Americans. I remain unafraid.

I do not wish to offend anyone. I wil never forget how I felt on September 11, 2001. I remember hoe I felt the weeks, afterwards, the months afterwards. But what impressed me is how the nation rebounded. How the people took on the task of chasing and catching the terrorists. They beging the task of restoring business. The people were resilient. Americans will never forget but for the most part, they have moved on and restored the swagger. Everyone, except the Republican government and the President. They insist on reliving 9/11. They periodically inject fear into the poplulation. After what happened in Spain, is there any doubt that a group of terrorists may try something. Of course they would. Do the people need Tom Ridge reminding usof this fact? No.....especially he has no details as to where this would happen or when...that is a waste. It is fear mongering. How foolish do you feel today having bought plastic wrap and duct tape. Or looking at bunker plans and safe rooms.

So here is the Republican party. the party that represents individual rights and claims to trust the people more than the government having news conferences to spread fear. The message is we are looking out for your back. Living in fear does not allow one to "think the think". They have used 9/11 to sent us into survival thinking, reactionary thinking. America is a country of ideals and the greatest thinkers and minds in the world. These minds. all the minds of the American people need to be nourished not sent into fear. That is exactly where the Republicans would like us to be. Instead of swagger, the Republicans chose to be bullies. Americans do not need to be bullies. Bullies rule by fear but are afraid themselves. American ideals are what impressed the world. Communism was destroyed by the ideals of democracy. A shot was never sent in the direction of Russia. Somewhere, sometime, the neocons forgot the greatness of this country that was fostered by the greatest presidents. including Ronald Reagan.

Well. my friends,isten to the what the Democrats say. They have impressed me. They are the true patriots,the true Americans in this election...they have the swagger.

Update:

I cought a summer cold and my hockey games this weekend have been cancelled. I have a feeling there are factors conspiring against me...or maybe I just have a cold and the rink is being repaired. In otherwords, life. The threat level has not been reased as a result of ice repairs at the arena. Thought you would like to know.

Walmarted,....yet again

2004-07-26T16:18:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday, I was Walmarted. What is being Walmarted? Being Walmarted when you either lose all control of your senses or you accidentally wander into Walmart. This ususally happens in a moment of weakness. well, at least in my case. My wife asked if I would join her going to Walmart. I needed a new razor, why not. My wife had to return the Waterpic she bought. Apparently, our dentist suggested the model we purchased did not have enough pressure. Instead, we were getting the Waterpic Powerwash. This is the one that features micropulverized diamond dust which acts to blast the plaque in between teeth and sandblast the enamel on the teeth. Of course, the first few times you use it your gums will bleed profusely as they are shredded. However, over time your gums will build enough scar tissue that you will barely feel diamond dust. Hey, anything for pearly whites.

I digress, So, in this moment of weakness, the offer of a drive in the minivan, I went to Walmart. I hate the place. All I needed was a razor. I could have gone to the local pharmacy. Unfortunately, Walmart has driven all these places out of business. What is my problem with Walmart? It is their arrogance and flat out misrepresentation. Where do I start? Let's start with the flags they wave. Have you ever seen anything made in this country sold in a Walmart. Their TV ads where a father discusses the great health plan Walmart provides. Of course, none of the clerks who work in the store can afford the costs to be in the plan. But why bring up that fact. They treat their employees poorly. They beat on their suppliers. Unfortunately, the suppliers have little choice but to cave. Reason being Walmert was allowed by the government to simply become too big. Also, those ads where they proved those lovely stores about how at Walmart you can start working below the poverty line and aspire to well, get above the poverty line.

All this was bad enough but then I discovered a more shocking fact about Walmart. In Canada, yes Walmarts have invaded Canada, you can buy a hockey stick at Walmart. I was dismayed. There they were wooden sticks and the new fangled two piece composite sticks. Is anything sacred to these people in Bentonville, ARKANSAS. They do not play ice hockey in Arkansas. Well, at least, I know of no pro player from Arkansas. Hockey sticks should be bought at the ice rink or a specialty sports store. I don't care if Walmart sells Golf Clubs, balls, baseball or football equipment. They do that in Arkansas...But not hockey. That is where I have to draw the line.

My plan is to behave with a clearer head in the future. Walmart will be followed by a No, Thank You...leave me at Borders, please.

Update on the hockey team......I missed the game Sunday. I am not sure but we probably lost. I had to travel..business....I would rather have been playing ice hockey.

Thanks for reading

Introduction

2004-07-24T16:05:00.000-07:00

My wife has suggested that I invest enough time with this laptop that I should consider doing something useful with it for a change. She is right. So, at her behest, I have become a blogger. I really never really aspired to such dizzying heights in my life, so I am here now.

(I also happen to enjoy writing...Commenting on the human condition. I will attempt to be light and funny. There is too much serious stuff going on anyway.)

A little about the name...hockeycestmoi....Well, I play ice hockey. Let me correct that I love playing ice hockey. I try to play as much as twice a week. If I could, I would play three times a week. How long I will play really depends on well how long my knee can take it. I am middle aged but that does not stop me from lacing it up with the kids. I was drafted this summer to be a team captain...So far, we are 0 and 3 and have been outscored about 40 to 3. My team was assembled from players who had no team. Now, here is the thing about hockey players. They love the game. My teammates save for two are in their forties and one fifty year old. (That guy is my hero.) Even though we are getting killed, now, we will be there every Sunday, ready to take on these kids. I do expect a turnaround though. Did I mention my optimism?

Last two seasons, I played on the championship team. I say play..But really I got to watch these guys fly n the ice and every once in a while score a goal or make a great pass. That was great. This season is a challenge. We will do it.

Aside from hockey, I have a serious job. You need to do something to pay the bills. I may express my opinions on the the corporate world later and the hypocrisy of it all. I reside in the Northeast US. Ok..I live in Jersey.....Well that at least is where I have been sentenced by my carrier. There is more to New ersey than just Atlantic City, the shore and the Newark airport. At least that is what the guide says. When I find what else there is, I promise to let you know. And, yes, I am not from New Jersey. I am a foreigner. My status is a resident alien. Thus, I cannot vote in this country. So my politics are not important...Yeah, right. I am a proud liberal and not afraid of it. I wish more liberals would stand up and say that.

Hey, my first post. I did it. I guess now I have to fill in such nonsense as template, profile and settings. I guess that officially makes me a blogger. I can't wait to tell my mother.