Congratulations America

Good job voters, now here is some advice:

If you have money, run, run far far away because the Gov't is coming to get it. Perhaps a better idea would be for you (by you, I mean the working public) would be to just publish your bank account numbers for the rest of us (by us, I mean the non-working public) to use. That way we don't have to wait for the taxes to trickle down to us. It's like we are cutting out the middle man.

Now, bring on the gravy...


I wonder how long until we start seeing the "Don't blame me, I voted for McCain stickers"...

An amazing video and song that I believe accurately encompasses the entire campaign process (no matter which side you vote for). Enjoy.

http://www.peteyandpetunia.com/VoteHere/VoteHere.htm


It makes one ponder, would the millions (and millions and millions) of dollars being spent on campaigns be better served in bailing out Main Street? or at least in serving the needs of the less fortunate?

Personally, I am in favor of a plan where the government "renegotiates" with the banks in lowering mortgages to be consistent with the value of the house. Yes, I am obviously a homeowner and statistics (83% of which are made up) show that 1 in 6 homes are worth less than the amount owed. I wonder if that takes into account the amazing amount of home equity loans that were taken and used for new cars and trips to Disney. Always good to be reassured by the fiscal responsibility of Americans (the government and public alike).

Should Stay-At-Home Mothers Get Paid?

Here's a thought. Stay at home mothers should get a paycheck. What if the government paid these hard working women (and men for you stay at home dads) a small stipend for their hard work? $5,000 non-taxable dollars for each child up to the age of 18. You would have to apply for the program, and that could be done at the same time you fill out paperwork for your child's birth certificate. There would be required drug testing, and if you fail you are barred from the program for 12 months and can reapply at that time. I know that is a stricter policy than any sports program here, but it's for the kids. Should the program only apply to married women with children? What about wives who do not have children? I have not worked out the kinks yet, and let's face it, this would never make it to the President's desk. It is not very much money, but it could be enough to encourage more mothers to stay home and raise their children instead of sticking them in (disease infested, overworked and understaffed) child care centers. Wouldn't this promote a more cohesive family unit, and therefor better adjusted children? I believe it would, and who's going to turn down some extra cash to help with the bills and family vacations? Some would ask, "who's going to pay for this (taxpayers)," and some would say "that will only increase our national debt." Hey, at least this way you know where some of your tax money is going (and it just might make it back your wife), and with the amount of debt our government is racking up, don't make me feel guilty for wanting a piece of the pie. When I see the Pentagon and Congress working on a (limited) budget, that is when I will drink that kool aid.

Domestic Spying - That can't be a good sign

Attention everyone!!! We have bipartisan agreement in Congress!!! Our representatives have agreed to ensure our safety by strengthening our domestic spying program. Our government can now "in certain circumstances" eavesdrop on our conversations WITHOUT a warrant. My understanding of certain circumstances is if someone is involved in an overseas call with "suspicious" person. In essence, spy now and ask later (I am pretty sure some of my college buddies would consider that dating). Also this new agreement will also protect the companies that are involved (AT&T and Verizon) from lawsuits. Does that mean my wireless bill will go down? I figure all of those surcharges/surtaxes/whoknowswhattheyarechargingmefor were to pay for defense lawyers. I understand the position many people take: "if you are not breaking the law, you don't have to worry" and "this is to protect us", but is this too much government? Where does this cross that gray area (I believe there use to be an actual line one could cross) of personal privacy? And who is paying for this? Is it the taxpayers? If so, that is the equivalent of suing yourself, expensive and you always lose.

President/Congress/High End Cocktail

President Bush, how will he be remembered? Does it really matter? I enjoy the political banter as much as the next guy, but even I fear for our country's future. When will our candidates start discussing their policies instead of constantly condemning the current President? I consider myself somewhat normal, and here are the issues that matter to me (in no particular order):

• Economy


• Health Care


• War in Iraq/Security


• Gas Prices


• Big Government


• Taxes

There is so much white noise out there, neither McCain nor Obama seem to be solidifying a position on any of these. I keep hearing "change and hope" from both parties, and let's face it; my faith in our government leaders is wavering. For as much criticism as G.W. receives, his approval rating is more than twice that of Congress (which is controlled by which party?), 28% and 13% respectively. 13%!!! How many of us would keep our jobs with that? I would probably end up sleeping on a park bench under a newspaper. Is there a way we can fire them all and start over? I thought they worked for us...

http://www.pollingreport.com/BushJob.htm

http://www.pollingreport.com/CongJob.htm

After that, I do need a drink. Here is a high end cocktail to break out with your smoking jacket or tuxedo:

Twentieth Century

• 1 1/4 oz Gin


• 3/4 oz Lillet Blanc


• 3/4 oz Fresh Lemon Juice


• 1/2 oz Cre'me de Cacao (clear)

Shake with ice & strain into a stemmed cocktail glass. Lemon Twist.