In the
letter to the Philippians we read about how Jesus, as the Eternal Word, was
equal to God and yet didn’t desire to hold onto that position, choosing instead
to draw near to us as one of us. The great Jesuit theologian Karl Rahner said
as much when he talked about how awe-inspiring it is to consider that when God
wanted to be something other than God, God became human. How glorious and
profound a truth- God voluntarily surrenders control, power, and the like in
order to show us how awesome it is to be human. Whereas we strive so hard not
to be human, it is that identity and reality that God most wanted to experience.
And he did so out of love for us. Daniel P Horan OFM, Daybreaks: Daily
Reflections for Lent and Easter, Passion (Palm) Sunday
MARYLANDER'S THOUGHTS.......... Random Ramblings on topics from Maryland
Sunday, April 14, 2019
Saturday, April 13, 2019
From Thomas Merton
“What we are – our identity – is only truly known to God – not
ourselves, not to other men. The greatest terror of the particular judgment is
that, the moment after our death we instantly appear before the face of God and
learn our identity – truly; we finally see ourselves as we really are!
The measure of our identity, of our being (the two are the same) is the amount
of our love for God.” Thomas Merton
Sunday, August 26, 2012
Culture and Immigrants
There have been many emails circulating regarding
immigrants and acceptance of the home country's culture, efforts to support
diversity, tolerance and other similar concepts. One of the recent emails I
read attribute statements to Australia and the Prime Minister. Upon searching
Snopes the email has mis-attributed the statement and associated quotes,
thereby undermining the content.
We expect accuracy and the practice of sending the message with misleading attributions has overshadowed the message itself.
I have included the contents of the message…...
.....Muslims who want to live under Islamic Sharia law were told on Wednesday to get out, as the government targeted radicals in a bid to head off potential terror attacks.
.... Quote: 'IMMIGRANTS, NOT AUSTRALIANS, MUST ADAPT... Take It Or Leave It. I am tired of this nation worrying about whether we are offending some individual or their culture. Since the terrorist attacks on Bali, we have experienced a surge in patriotism by the majority of Australians.'
'This culture has been developed over two centuries of struggles, trials and victories by millions of men and women who have sought freedom.'
'We speak mainly ENGLISH, not Spanish, Lebanese, Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, Russian, or any other language. Therefore, if you wish to become part of our society, learn the language!'
'Most Australians believe in God. This is not some Christian, right wing, political push, but a fact, because Christian men and women, on Christian principles, founded this nation, and this is clearly documented. It is certainly appropriate to display it on the walls of our schools. If God offends you, then I suggest you consider another part of the world as your new home, because God is part of our culture.'
'We will accept your beliefs, and will not question why. All we ask is that you accept ours, and live in harmony and peaceful enjoyment with us.'
'This is OUR COUNTRY, OUR LAND, and OUR LIFESTYLE, and we will allow you every opportunity to enjoy all this. But once you are done complaining, whining, and griping about Our Flag, Our Pledge, Our Christian beliefs, or Our Way of Life, I highly encourage you take advantage of one other great Australian freedom, 'THE RIGHT TO LEAVE'.'
'If you aren't happy here then LEAVE. We didn't force you to come here. You asked to be here. So accept the country YOU accepted.'........
We have seen similar positions and statements. Many are threatened by change and on initial reading I readily accepted the message. Who invited them and how dare they force our culture to change?
We all want to welcome immigrants. The assumption is they want to benefit from our economy which is a direct beneficiary of our culture. The problem comes not when they want to celebrate their home culture here; it is when they expect us to change our culture to accommodate theirs.
We can accommodate other cultures however; it must be a reciprocal arrangement. We must be allowed keep our culture.
This is the challenge all for us.
We expect accuracy and the practice of sending the message with misleading attributions has overshadowed the message itself.
I have included the contents of the message…...
.....Muslims who want to live under Islamic Sharia law were told on Wednesday to get out, as the government targeted radicals in a bid to head off potential terror attacks.
.... Quote: 'IMMIGRANTS, NOT AUSTRALIANS, MUST ADAPT... Take It Or Leave It. I am tired of this nation worrying about whether we are offending some individual or their culture. Since the terrorist attacks on Bali, we have experienced a surge in patriotism by the majority of Australians.'
'This culture has been developed over two centuries of struggles, trials and victories by millions of men and women who have sought freedom.'
'We speak mainly ENGLISH, not Spanish, Lebanese, Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, Russian, or any other language. Therefore, if you wish to become part of our society, learn the language!'
'Most Australians believe in God. This is not some Christian, right wing, political push, but a fact, because Christian men and women, on Christian principles, founded this nation, and this is clearly documented. It is certainly appropriate to display it on the walls of our schools. If God offends you, then I suggest you consider another part of the world as your new home, because God is part of our culture.'
'We will accept your beliefs, and will not question why. All we ask is that you accept ours, and live in harmony and peaceful enjoyment with us.'
'This is OUR COUNTRY, OUR LAND, and OUR LIFESTYLE, and we will allow you every opportunity to enjoy all this. But once you are done complaining, whining, and griping about Our Flag, Our Pledge, Our Christian beliefs, or Our Way of Life, I highly encourage you take advantage of one other great Australian freedom, 'THE RIGHT TO LEAVE'.'
'If you aren't happy here then LEAVE. We didn't force you to come here. You asked to be here. So accept the country YOU accepted.'........
We have seen similar positions and statements. Many are threatened by change and on initial reading I readily accepted the message. Who invited them and how dare they force our culture to change?
We all want to welcome immigrants. The assumption is they want to benefit from our economy which is a direct beneficiary of our culture. The problem comes not when they want to celebrate their home culture here; it is when they expect us to change our culture to accommodate theirs.
We can accommodate other cultures however; it must be a reciprocal arrangement. We must be allowed keep our culture.
This is the challenge all for us.
Sunday, August 19, 2012
Back in Chains remark and Romneys' Taxes
Face the Nation and Meet the Press both discussed Vice
President’s Biden’s statement to a predominately African audience stating that
Romney would “put y’all back in chains”. Democrat Senator Dick Durbin could only say that Biden was not a racist. No one said VP Biden was a racist. But he
brought race into the arena by his comment what Romney was going to do to
them. The issue is not that Joe Biden was racist. VP
Biden implied by his comments that Romney and the GOP were racist. This is inflammatory, inaccurate and inappropriate. It was an example of the tactic to attack and distort rather than respond to the matter at hand. It is
insulting that the political operatives don’t respond directly to questions but
instead twist the reply with spin and misdirect the focus. Why is it so difficult to admit a mistake, apologize and move on? The issue becomes the intransigence to admit wrong. Is the process that viscous? If this was a gaffe, isn't an apology in order? I think so.
Our respected Governor O’Malley was on Meet the Press and
VP Biden came up as did Romney’s taxes. I thought it interesting that on the topic
of taxes mention was made that neither McCain nor Kerry released all their tax
returns in the prior elections. Who knew? We all know Romney is successful financially. As a result he
utilized legal tax planning options which are not readily available to
the regular citizen. From the returns already released, the Democrats have been
in attack mode relying upon class envy and selective disclosure. They assert
that Romney’ effective tax rate was below 15% and well below the normal middle class
tax rate. But they have been careful not to say how much in dollars Romney paid
in taxes nor his philanthropic or charitable contributions. For Romney to
release more tax returns he is playing into the hands of the Democrats by
providing them additional data to obfuscate and use to divert the attention of
the electorate from the more important issues such as Budget, Government
Spending, Increasing National Debt, Social Security, Medicare, Entitlements
and needed Tax Reform. This list goes on.
As someone who can read a tax return, I question the Democrats honesty and ability to accurately review and then report on the legality and propriety of Romney's previously filed tax returns. First and foremost it isn't their right to examine his returns. This is confidential as they should be and if there is something wrong with the returns it is the responsibility of the IRS to examine the returns. Has anyone made any assertions that there is anything wrong or illegal on Romney's tax returns? I have not heard any. But the assertions are more inflammatory in that he did not pay a high enough tax rate, he has Swiss Bank Accounts or accounts in the Cayman Islands or other off shore locations. These attacks are more to inflame class envy and class warfare. They imply he isn't American enough and that we should question if he was patriotic enough in his financial activities?
Finally, from a famous statement made by a respected jurist which most tax professionals are familiar: “Anyone may so arrange his affairs that his taxes shall be as low as
possible; he is not bound to choose that pattern which will best pay the
Treasury; there is not even a patriotic duty to increase one’s taxes…
for nobody owes any public duty to pay more than the law demands. Taxes
are an enforceable extraction and not a voluntary contribution.” Judge
Lernard Hand, Gregory v. Helvering, 293 U.S. 465 (1935)
Friday, February 03, 2012
POTUS Shame on you
The White House blog has posted an article which defends the new regulations by HHS and the mandate to religious institutions.
http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2012/02/01/health-reform-preventive-services-and-religious-institutions
This post has been challenged and refuted by the United States Council of Catholic Bishops and they actually assert that the White House has misrepresented this mandate.
http://www.usccb.org/news/2012/12-020.cfm
Who do you believe?
Our President and the White House or the Catholic Bishops?
It seems that we have been presented with a serious moral dilemma. We all want to think that our Government is not playing politics and can be relied upon to accurately communicate with the citizens under it's protection. We expect that our Leaders are honest and upright, not manipulators or devious. In Civics class we were taught to look up to the President and take for granted that we could count on everything they said and everything he did was for our best.
My first experience with this was in December of 1968 when I received a personal letter from the President of the United States, Richard Nixon which started: Greetings. The next thing I knew I was wearing Army Olive Green in basic training at Ft Bragg, North Carolina. In barely over 6 moths later I was on a Flying Tiger Airplane landing in Cam Ranh Bay, South Vietnam. Yes, the President was looking out for me as was the Congress, etc.
From this point on I became a bit jaded and realized that the Government is not interested in me or in my well being unless they wanted something from me; my service, my support or my money. Otherwise they wanted my silence.
Actually, I learned that rather than trust the Government, we needed to watch the Government and we needed to be on guard against the overreaching power grabbing which politicians were perpetrating.
Now we are confronted with a challenge.
People of faith are now presented with a mandate which will force them to subjugate their principals and participate in purchasing mandated insurance or be fined and punished in some manner for not having Government Mandated insurance coverage which violates the morals which we are guided to accept and believe by our Church.
The President and the then Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi and many proponents for the Health Care Legislation assured those who were concerned and requesting a conscience protection, that they need not worry. There was no intention to force anyone to comply with the legislation at the cost of their moral beliefs. They were promised a conscience protection.
We see here and now that comments made in asking for support are worthless once the vote is cast and the position won.
Shame on you Mr President and shame on us if we don't remember this in November and vote accordingly.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2012/02/01/health-reform-preventive-services-and-religious-institutions
This post has been challenged and refuted by the United States Council of Catholic Bishops and they actually assert that the White House has misrepresented this mandate.
http://www.usccb.org/news/2012/12-020.cfm
Who do you believe?
Our President and the White House or the Catholic Bishops?
It seems that we have been presented with a serious moral dilemma. We all want to think that our Government is not playing politics and can be relied upon to accurately communicate with the citizens under it's protection. We expect that our Leaders are honest and upright, not manipulators or devious. In Civics class we were taught to look up to the President and take for granted that we could count on everything they said and everything he did was for our best.
My first experience with this was in December of 1968 when I received a personal letter from the President of the United States, Richard Nixon which started: Greetings. The next thing I knew I was wearing Army Olive Green in basic training at Ft Bragg, North Carolina. In barely over 6 moths later I was on a Flying Tiger Airplane landing in Cam Ranh Bay, South Vietnam. Yes, the President was looking out for me as was the Congress, etc.
From this point on I became a bit jaded and realized that the Government is not interested in me or in my well being unless they wanted something from me; my service, my support or my money. Otherwise they wanted my silence.
Actually, I learned that rather than trust the Government, we needed to watch the Government and we needed to be on guard against the overreaching power grabbing which politicians were perpetrating.
Now we are confronted with a challenge.
People of faith are now presented with a mandate which will force them to subjugate their principals and participate in purchasing mandated insurance or be fined and punished in some manner for not having Government Mandated insurance coverage which violates the morals which we are guided to accept and believe by our Church.
The President and the then Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi and many proponents for the Health Care Legislation assured those who were concerned and requesting a conscience protection, that they need not worry. There was no intention to force anyone to comply with the legislation at the cost of their moral beliefs. They were promised a conscience protection.
We see here and now that comments made in asking for support are worthless once the vote is cast and the position won.
Shame on you Mr President and shame on us if we don't remember this in November and vote accordingly.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
For our
struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the
authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual
forces of evil in the heavenly realms.
Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil
comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done
everything, to stand. Ephesians 6:12~13
Friday, August 05, 2011
Proposal for Amendment to the Constitution
This is from an email which is in circulation which I wanted to post on this blog.
It isn't perfect but it addresses a number of issues which have frustrated many of us. Maybe if a Grassroots effort gets momentum, some of these issues will be addressed, possibly by Amendment and possibly by legislation.
The problem now is that we have the fox guarding the hen house. We are the chicken being plucked!
.....................
The 26th amendment (granting the right to vote for 18 year-olds) took only 3 months and 8 days to be ratified! Why? Simple! The people demanded it. That was in 1971...before computers, before e-mail, before cell phones, etc..
Of the 27 amendments to the Constitution, seven (7) took 1 year or less to become the law of the land...all because of public pressure.
Congressional Reform Act of 2011
1. Term Limits. 12 years only, one of the possible options below..
A. Two Six-year Senate terms
B. Six Two-year House terms
C. One Six-year Senate term and three Two-Year House terms
2. No Tenure / No Pension.
A Congressman collects a salary while in office and receives no pay when they are out of office.
3. Congress (past , present and future) participates in Social Security.
All funds in the Congressional retirement fund move to the Social Security system immediately. All future funds flow into the Social Security system, and Congress participates with the American people.
4. Congress can purchase their own retirement plan, just as all Americans do.
5. Congress will no longer vote themselves a pay raise. Congressional pay will rise by the lower of CPI or 3%.
6. Congress loses their current health care system and participates in the same health care system as the American people.
7. Congress must equally abide by all laws they impose on the American people.
8. All contracts with past and present Congressmen are void effective 1/1/12.
The American people did not make this contract with Congressmen. Congressmen made all these contracts for themselves.
Serving in Congress is an honor, not a career. The Founding Fathers envisioned citizen legislators, so ours should serve their term(s), then go home and back to work.
It isn't perfect but it addresses a number of issues which have frustrated many of us. Maybe if a Grassroots effort gets momentum, some of these issues will be addressed, possibly by Amendment and possibly by legislation.
The problem now is that we have the fox guarding the hen house. We are the chicken being plucked!
.....................
The 26th amendment (granting the right to vote for 18 year-olds) took only 3 months and 8 days to be ratified! Why? Simple! The people demanded it. That was in 1971...before computers, before e-mail, before cell phones, etc..
Of the 27 amendments to the Constitution, seven (7) took 1 year or less to become the law of the land...all because of public pressure.
Congressional Reform Act of 2011
1. Term Limits. 12 years only, one of the possible options below..
A. Two Six-year Senate terms
B. Six Two-year House terms
C. One Six-year Senate term and three Two-Year House terms
2. No Tenure / No Pension.
A Congressman collects a salary while in office and receives no pay when they are out of office.
3. Congress (past , present and future) participates in Social Security.
All funds in the Congressional retirement fund move to the Social Security system immediately. All future funds flow into the Social Security system, and Congress participates with the American people.
4. Congress can purchase their own retirement plan, just as all Americans do.
5. Congress will no longer vote themselves a pay raise. Congressional pay will rise by the lower of CPI or 3%.
6. Congress loses their current health care system and participates in the same health care system as the American people.
7. Congress must equally abide by all laws they impose on the American people.
8. All contracts with past and present Congressmen are void effective 1/1/12.
The American people did not make this contract with Congressmen. Congressmen made all these contracts for themselves.
Serving in Congress is an honor, not a career. The Founding Fathers envisioned citizen legislators, so ours should serve their term(s), then go home and back to work.
Tuesday, August 02, 2011
Importance of Redistricing and the Tennor of Legislature
As we enter into the process of sculpting the Legislative Districts for the State of Maryland, we need to look past boundaries and seriously consider the impact these new districts will have on our Country, Our State and ourselves. If we continue to have districts which are politically drawn with unstated but implicit goal of safe seats for the "party faithful" and if the "party faithful" are fanatically "left" or "right", then we will guarantee a continuing dysfunctional Congress.
As the Sunpapers so accurately noted, there is little moderation in Congress and few members are "middle of the road".
If the constituents are moderate, then how do we end up with "representatives" who do not represent our ideals and principals? The simple reason is that we have abandoned responsibility.
We as a citizenry have abdicated our role to be involved in our government and have allowed party “hacks” and “zealots” to take control of the local County Party and Central Committees.
Is it any wonder that the individuals who are supported by the local party are carbon copies of the ideology of the Central Committee? That the candidates are extreme and not moderate? That collectively we hold our nose when we cast our votes?
The Calendar for Public Hearings on Redistricting has begun.
Here is the calendar, we need to take notice, educate ourselves and let our voices be heard,
Public hearings will start at the designated time and end following the last testimony of registered persons.
The hearings and start times will be:
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
The Universities at Shady Grove
Building #1 Auditorium
Starts at 7:00 p.m.
9630 Gudelsky Drive
Rockville, MD 20850 (Driving Directions)
Parking in lot 2
• Public Testimony Advance Sign-in
Friday, August 12, 2011
Morgan State University
Student Center - Calvin & Tina Tyler Ballroom (Campus Map)
Starts at 7:00 p.m.
1700 East Cold Spring Lane
Baltimore MD 21251 (Driving Directions)
Park in the stadium parking garage (13 on map) and take bridge on 3rd level into the Student Center
• Public Testimony Advance Sign-in
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
College of Southern Maryland
Center for Business and Industry, #113 (Campus Map)
Starts at 7:00 p.m.
8730 Mitchell Road
La Plata, MD 20646 (Driving Directions)
Park in lots 2, 6 & 7 – Most convenient to BI
• Public Testimony Advance Sign-in
Saturday, August 27, 2011
Harford Community College
Amoss Center (next to Harford Technical H.S.) (Campus Map)
Starts at 11:00 a.m.
200 Thomas Run Road
Bel Air, MD 21015 (Driving Directions)
Parking all around school
• Public Testimony Advance Sign-in
Saturday, August 27, 2011
Towson University
Stephens Hall Theater (Campus Map)
Starts at 2:00 p.m.
8000 York Road
Towson, MD 21252 (Driving Directions)
• Public Testimony Advance Sign-in
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Anne Arundel Community College
Center for Applied Learning & Technology (CALT) 100 (Campus Map)
Starts at 4:00 p.m.
101 College Parkway
Arnold, MD 21012 (Driving Directions)
• Public Testimony Advance Sign-in
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Howard County
Wilde Lake Interfaith Center, Room 4 (Campus Map)
Starts at 7:00 p.m.
10431 Twin Rivers Road
Columbia MD , 21044 (Driving Directions)
• Public Testimony Advance Sign-in
When it passed the law requiring single-member elections, Congress also created some vague rules for drawing the boundaries of congressional districts; each state's voting districts were supposed to be geographically contiguous, compact in shape, and roughly equal in population.
But those rules were pretty loose and subjective, which opened the door for state politicians to pull all kinds of shenanigans in drawing district boundaries for partisan gain. This is known as gerrymandering—the manipulation of the boundaries of congressional districts to serve the interests of the political party drawing the boundaries. (The odd-sounding name comes from founding father Elbridge Gerry, who was serving as Governor of Massachusetts in 1812 when he drew up the state's legislative districts to favor his own Democratic-Republican Party. Gerry's critics thought that one of the resulting districts, a snakelike creation stretching northeast from Boston, looked like a salamander—a monstrous creation they called a "Gerrymander." From http://www.shmoop.com/legislative-branch/house-of-representatives.html
As the Sunpapers so accurately noted, there is little moderation in Congress and few members are "middle of the road".
Thanks to gerrymandered congressional districts that mean many representatives face competition only in their party primaries, there are few centrists left, and members of both parties' fringes not only have an incentive to embrace extremism but reason to fear for their re-election prospects if they don't. The Baltimore Sunpapers Editioral August 2, 2011.
If the constituents are moderate, then how do we end up with "representatives" who do not represent our ideals and principals? The simple reason is that we have abandoned responsibility.
We as a citizenry have abdicated our role to be involved in our government and have allowed party “hacks” and “zealots” to take control of the local County Party and Central Committees.
Is it any wonder that the individuals who are supported by the local party are carbon copies of the ideology of the Central Committee? That the candidates are extreme and not moderate? That collectively we hold our nose when we cast our votes?
The Calendar for Public Hearings on Redistricting has begun.
Here is the calendar, we need to take notice, educate ourselves and let our voices be heard,
Public hearings will start at the designated time and end following the last testimony of registered persons.
The hearings and start times will be:
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
The Universities at Shady Grove
Building #1 Auditorium
Starts at 7:00 p.m.
9630 Gudelsky Drive
Rockville, MD 20850 (Driving Directions)
Parking in lot 2
• Public Testimony Advance Sign-in
Friday, August 12, 2011
Morgan State University
Student Center - Calvin & Tina Tyler Ballroom (Campus Map)
Starts at 7:00 p.m.
1700 East Cold Spring Lane
Baltimore MD 21251 (Driving Directions)
Park in the stadium parking garage (13 on map) and take bridge on 3rd level into the Student Center
• Public Testimony Advance Sign-in
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
College of Southern Maryland
Center for Business and Industry, #113 (Campus Map)
Starts at 7:00 p.m.
8730 Mitchell Road
La Plata, MD 20646 (Driving Directions)
Park in lots 2, 6 & 7 – Most convenient to BI
• Public Testimony Advance Sign-in
Saturday, August 27, 2011
Harford Community College
Amoss Center (next to Harford Technical H.S.) (Campus Map)
Starts at 11:00 a.m.
200 Thomas Run Road
Bel Air, MD 21015 (Driving Directions)
Parking all around school
• Public Testimony Advance Sign-in
Saturday, August 27, 2011
Towson University
Stephens Hall Theater (Campus Map)
Starts at 2:00 p.m.
8000 York Road
Towson, MD 21252 (Driving Directions)
• Public Testimony Advance Sign-in
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Anne Arundel Community College
Center for Applied Learning & Technology (CALT) 100 (Campus Map)
Starts at 4:00 p.m.
101 College Parkway
Arnold, MD 21012 (Driving Directions)
• Public Testimony Advance Sign-in
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Howard County
Wilde Lake Interfaith Center, Room 4 (Campus Map)
Starts at 7:00 p.m.
10431 Twin Rivers Road
Columbia MD , 21044 (Driving Directions)
• Public Testimony Advance Sign-in
Friday, July 29, 2011
Open Letter to Washington about the Budget
It has been over 800 days since our Government has had a budget.
This is not a GOP or Democrat issue, it is a symptom of dysfunction resulting from a misguided intransigent positioning along party lines. I am concerned with belligerent, opposition Senator Reid has taken in regard to the budgets which have been passed by the House of Representatives.
As elected officials our Representatives and Senators have the responsibility to put COUNTRY FIRST, above party interest and above the next election.
If a serious, even flawed, budget is presented, please work to bring it to the floor for debate and passage. It may not be a Democratic budget, but we have not seen a budget from the Democrats.
As the Government looks to determine who to pay and who not to pay, let me suggest that unless and until a budget is passed and signed into law, no one in the Legislature or Executive Branch be compensated or have expenses paid or reimbursed. None have earned remuneration until they do.
We will all watch to see what action and resolution is made of this crisis, it will significantly influence who returns after the next election.
Please cross over party lines and work towards a compromise, be a statesman you were elected to be.
This is not a GOP or Democrat issue, it is a symptom of dysfunction resulting from a misguided intransigent positioning along party lines. I am concerned with belligerent, opposition Senator Reid has taken in regard to the budgets which have been passed by the House of Representatives.
As elected officials our Representatives and Senators have the responsibility to put COUNTRY FIRST, above party interest and above the next election.
If a serious, even flawed, budget is presented, please work to bring it to the floor for debate and passage. It may not be a Democratic budget, but we have not seen a budget from the Democrats.
As the Government looks to determine who to pay and who not to pay, let me suggest that unless and until a budget is passed and signed into law, no one in the Legislature or Executive Branch be compensated or have expenses paid or reimbursed. None have earned remuneration until they do.
We will all watch to see what action and resolution is made of this crisis, it will significantly influence who returns after the next election.
Please cross over party lines and work towards a compromise, be a statesman you were elected to be.
Saturday, May 21, 2011
What a Game
Last night I thought I was going to a baseball game with the O's vs the Nationals but left with a football game score of 17 to 5. Two touchdowns and a field goal vs a filed goal and a safety. Great temperature and low humidity, friends all around a great night for baseball. Then the opening pitch and the slide down began. The Nationals had a exceptional game 6 home runs! The O's just demonstrated their pitching problems and lack of offense. However 5 runs with good pitching should win games.
All in all at least it took my sorrows away from the economy, our representatives in power etc, but on looking again our nemesis remains connected to DC, only this time it's the baseball team.
If the Rapture is coming, I am unconcerned that any from Capital Hill or the White House will be with us. If they are, then God really is a mystery!
All in all at least it took my sorrows away from the economy, our representatives in power etc, but on looking again our nemesis remains connected to DC, only this time it's the baseball team.
If the Rapture is coming, I am unconcerned that any from Capital Hill or the White House will be with us. If they are, then God really is a mystery!
Friday, May 20, 2011
Being generous with other's money
What recently caught my ear and made me think was Obama's generosity with Egypt and the other Arab countries "going through transition", i.e. change in government. Evidently not only do we give Egypt 1 Billion Dollars annually but they also owe us 1 Billion Dollars. Our magnanimous and generous President has the "courage" to tell Egypt, never mind, you don't need to pay your debt to us and ah yes, we will continue to send you our dollars. Now he also wants to purchase friendship on the Arab streets in Egypt, and other Arab countries. I think he'd welcome the change no chance to join the Arab Brotherhood. But my question is if the Arab nations need support, where are the Oil Rich Arab Countries? Doesn't Saudi Arabia have substantial surplus? Don't they have an obligation to support brother Arabs. Or are we the patsy? WE should go broke sending more money to the Arabs so we can rack up our public debt so as not to burden our "friends" in Arabia.
It's time to realize they are not friends or allies. They may not hate us but they certainly do not willingly support us. Stop bankrupting our future generations by sending any money to Arabia. Maybe we should expect to be paid by the Oil Producing Arab Countries for being their mercenaries and protecting these rich dictatorships.
I am not a foreign policy expert but something just does not balance.
Government as usual must stop.
Our Politicians have been given a free ride by the press and the electorate.
What is troubling is that there isn't much more that rumbling in the street.
It's time to realize they are not friends or allies. They may not hate us but they certainly do not willingly support us. Stop bankrupting our future generations by sending any money to Arabia. Maybe we should expect to be paid by the Oil Producing Arab Countries for being their mercenaries and protecting these rich dictatorships.
I am not a foreign policy expert but something just does not balance.
Government as usual must stop.
Our Politicians have been given a free ride by the press and the electorate.
What is troubling is that there isn't much more that rumbling in the street.
Saturday, December 18, 2010
Thoughts on the "Holidays" and Christmas
It may be my old fashioned perspective, my love of history and tradition, maybe and most probably my faith but I have grown up with Christmas. As a child it was a time for Santa Claus, presents and being off from school. Then later, the presents were not as important and Santa lost his luster but the joy of the season and a few days off were important. Once I had children, Santa reappeared in the eyes and giggles and belly laughs the boys enjoyed as they opened the gifts. That was priceless. Yes, I was truly in the Holiday spirit.
But as I have "matured", I realized that there are only so many things you need or want. Learning about the reason for the holiday and really attempting to understand has changed my mind. As a Christian and a Catholic, the season brings a new joy, a new found perspective.
We are all human with the various strengths and weaknesses. One weakness which seems to be growing is that of lack of appreciation for the blessings we have and a lack of belief in God. In these secular times, it is naive to show or demonstrate faith. Of course, political correctness, thought control, doesn't want to offend any one, except people of Faith in Christ. It is more appropriate to take credit for what "we" have accomplished, of who "we" are.
I can only look around me and see that there is something far greater than I at work here. We are blessed to be in the here and now. These are truly great times in which we live and while the work of humans accomplished much, it is from God's blessings that we have attained what we have and it is appropriate for us to acknowledge this.
My faith teaches that " 'THE LORD OUR GOD IS ONE LORD; AND YOU SHALL LOVE THE LORD YOUR GOD WITH ALL YOUR HEART, AND WITH ALL YOUR SOUL, AND WITH ALL YOUR MIND, AND WITH ALL YOUR STRENGTH. YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.' There is no other commandment greater than these." Mark 12:29~31
These two rules may seem trite in these modern times but they give comfort and guidance to us in these complicated and sophisticated times. Our faith philosophy can be synthesized into these two concepts. Love God and Love one another. What other guidance do we need to develop our relationships with one another?
Personally I have witnessed the power, love and joy of following these principals which have been ingrained in Christian and Catholic Faith.
Christmas is the time for new beginnings. It is the time God so showed His love for us that He became man. Why did He become man other than to show us the way to true happiness and joy? Our salvation starts on Christmas.
So I say to you; "MERRY CHRISTMAS"
But as I have "matured", I realized that there are only so many things you need or want. Learning about the reason for the holiday and really attempting to understand has changed my mind. As a Christian and a Catholic, the season brings a new joy, a new found perspective.
We are all human with the various strengths and weaknesses. One weakness which seems to be growing is that of lack of appreciation for the blessings we have and a lack of belief in God. In these secular times, it is naive to show or demonstrate faith. Of course, political correctness, thought control, doesn't want to offend any one, except people of Faith in Christ. It is more appropriate to take credit for what "we" have accomplished, of who "we" are.
I can only look around me and see that there is something far greater than I at work here. We are blessed to be in the here and now. These are truly great times in which we live and while the work of humans accomplished much, it is from God's blessings that we have attained what we have and it is appropriate for us to acknowledge this.
My faith teaches that " 'THE LORD OUR GOD IS ONE LORD; AND YOU SHALL LOVE THE LORD YOUR GOD WITH ALL YOUR HEART, AND WITH ALL YOUR SOUL, AND WITH ALL YOUR MIND, AND WITH ALL YOUR STRENGTH. YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.' There is no other commandment greater than these." Mark 12:29~31
These two rules may seem trite in these modern times but they give comfort and guidance to us in these complicated and sophisticated times. Our faith philosophy can be synthesized into these two concepts. Love God and Love one another. What other guidance do we need to develop our relationships with one another?
Personally I have witnessed the power, love and joy of following these principals which have been ingrained in Christian and Catholic Faith.
Christmas is the time for new beginnings. It is the time God so showed His love for us that He became man. Why did He become man other than to show us the way to true happiness and joy? Our salvation starts on Christmas.
So I say to you; "MERRY CHRISTMAS"
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Telling the truth
After sitting on the sideline for quite some time, I at last have something to say. I was impressed by State Senator Jim Roby's candid and honest remark during the campaign that it costs to maintain the level of services we expect from the government and unless we want less services, and a reduced quality of life, he could not promise to cut spending and he could not promise not to raise taxes.Good for him! At last we have a candidate who is not pandering to the public with campaign rhetoric which everyone knows is just that.
Like everyone else I hate Government waste but does anyone honestly believe that it is continued intentionally? This waste is in the eyes of the beholder or by the constituency which does not support that particular program.
How about state construction contracts which require the successful bidder to pay union scale, even it they are a non union shop. The regulations are not this explicit but the net effect is to make State Construction more expensive than it needs to be. The contractors dislike this requirement in that it increases their payroll, the unions support this in that it makes union contractors competitive for State Contracts.
How about unemployment? When someone is unemployed getting a weekly benefit check, now for 99 weeks, is a safety net which helps them survive ( barely) but does this extended benefit encourage them to stay unemployed just a little longer? If you look to Europe where extended benefits have been reduced. Funny thing, those looking for work seem to find work in less time now. I want to assist those looking for work but don't want to assist them any longer than it takes to find a job, not necessarily the best job but any job.
Pick the area of Government where you see waste. Is it possible that someone else sees it as a necessary, needed and appropriate use of government funds?
I think it is time that everyone change what we expect the government to do. It's time for a Pyridine shift. Individuals and business need to expect less from Government. Government has to stop attempting to please various vocal constituencies and start to examine it's rightful roles.
JFK on his election had a noble statement which sounded good, too bad no one accepted the challenge:
"Ask not what Your Country can do for you, Ask what you can do for Your Country."
It rang true in 1961 and it rings true with a little more urgency in 2010.
Like everyone else I hate Government waste but does anyone honestly believe that it is continued intentionally? This waste is in the eyes of the beholder or by the constituency which does not support that particular program.
How about state construction contracts which require the successful bidder to pay union scale, even it they are a non union shop. The regulations are not this explicit but the net effect is to make State Construction more expensive than it needs to be. The contractors dislike this requirement in that it increases their payroll, the unions support this in that it makes union contractors competitive for State Contracts.
How about unemployment? When someone is unemployed getting a weekly benefit check, now for 99 weeks, is a safety net which helps them survive ( barely) but does this extended benefit encourage them to stay unemployed just a little longer? If you look to Europe where extended benefits have been reduced. Funny thing, those looking for work seem to find work in less time now. I want to assist those looking for work but don't want to assist them any longer than it takes to find a job, not necessarily the best job but any job.
Pick the area of Government where you see waste. Is it possible that someone else sees it as a necessary, needed and appropriate use of government funds?
I think it is time that everyone change what we expect the government to do. It's time for a Pyridine shift. Individuals and business need to expect less from Government. Government has to stop attempting to please various vocal constituencies and start to examine it's rightful roles.
JFK on his election had a noble statement which sounded good, too bad no one accepted the challenge:
"Ask not what Your Country can do for you, Ask what you can do for Your Country."
It rang true in 1961 and it rings true with a little more urgency in 2010.
Saturday, October 23, 2010
Political Season Observations and ramblings (Sorry)
I enjoyed attending the two forums sponsored by the Howard County Chamber of Commerce which gave local races visibility which they seldom get. The Councilmatic races were exceptional in that we saw both contenders for all but one race. It was quite beneficial, for me, to listen to the County Executive discussions and to actually listen to each candidate. The following forum for the Annapolis races (Delegate and Senate) were also exceptionally informative. The forums did allow for cheap attacks on occasion, but also allowed almost every candidate make the customary promise not to raise taxes, to cut wasteful spending, etc. etc. etc. It was refreshing to hear Senator Robey take the stand that if you want to maintain the quality of life we enjoy in Howard County, it cost money. Good for you Senator.
Historically I have considered my self to be conservative but that has changed. I have moved to the middle. I still question the ability of government to be efficient and believe that the economy is best if there is a true free market with only basic regulatory oversight. But government has a basic role which only government can fill, specifically in the area of public safety, transportation, assistance to the needy and education. Attention to these areas have a direct impact on our quality of life.
We are truly blessed to be living here now. Howard County has an exceptionally good standard of living and quality of life. Maryland is "The Land of Pleasant Living". All this costs. It is paid for by taxes.I do not like to pay taxes any more or less than my neighbor, but the quality of life we enjoy in Howard County costs and I am willing to pay for it to continue.
We are fortunate to have quality Howard County candidates which we do.
With the various attack "advertisements" on the airways, I am disappointed that our potential governor, has no ideas or issues which he intends to pursue or initiate if elected. The only discourse being presented is how bad the other candidate was/is as governor. How the other candidate: increased taxes more then this candidate or increased spending , etc. etc. etc. But what do you intend to do, Governor?
My plea is that there be more "civility" in the exchange. The Candidates should candidly state what they intend to do in the the way of legislation if elected. Have open debates and cease hostile campaigns.
Historically I have considered my self to be conservative but that has changed. I have moved to the middle. I still question the ability of government to be efficient and believe that the economy is best if there is a true free market with only basic regulatory oversight. But government has a basic role which only government can fill, specifically in the area of public safety, transportation, assistance to the needy and education. Attention to these areas have a direct impact on our quality of life.
We are truly blessed to be living here now. Howard County has an exceptionally good standard of living and quality of life. Maryland is "The Land of Pleasant Living". All this costs. It is paid for by taxes.I do not like to pay taxes any more or less than my neighbor, but the quality of life we enjoy in Howard County costs and I am willing to pay for it to continue.
We are fortunate to have quality Howard County candidates which we do.
With the various attack "advertisements" on the airways, I am disappointed that our potential governor, has no ideas or issues which he intends to pursue or initiate if elected. The only discourse being presented is how bad the other candidate was/is as governor. How the other candidate: increased taxes more then this candidate or increased spending , etc. etc. etc. But what do you intend to do, Governor?
My plea is that there be more "civility" in the exchange. The Candidates should candidly state what they intend to do in the the way of legislation if elected. Have open debates and cease hostile campaigns.
Sunday, June 13, 2010
Letter to Senator Mikulski on American Jobs and Closing Tax Loopholes Act of 2010
Please Join Senator Olympia Snowe and Senator Mike Enzi to support their amendment to strike the provision of American Jobs and Closing Tax Loopholes Act of 2010 which selectively assesses self employment taxes on profits within S Corporations which are identified as a "Disqualified Corporation" where the principal asset of such business is the reputation and skill of 3 or fewer employees." (Sec. 413)
S Corporations are currently required to pay a reasonable compensation to all officer-shareholders who provide services to the corporation. This compensation is subject to all Federal Employment Taxes. (Revenue Ruling 73-361)
This one section will overburden already overburdened small businesses in Maryland.
Please keep in mind Winston Churchill's statement:
"Some see Private Enterprise as a predatory target to be shot. Others as a cow to be milked. But few are those who see it as it is, the sturdy horse pulling the wagon."
Which are you?
Thank you for considering this request for action.
S Corporations are currently required to pay a reasonable compensation to all officer-shareholders who provide services to the corporation. This compensation is subject to all Federal Employment Taxes. (Revenue Ruling 73-361)
Please work to protect Small Businesses and remove Section 413 in it's entirety from American Jobs and Closing Tax Loopholes Act of 2010
Please keep in mind Winston Churchill's statement:
"Some see Private Enterprise as a predatory target to be shot. Others as a cow to be milked. But few are those who see it as it is, the sturdy horse pulling the wagon."
Which are you?
Thank you for considering this request for action.
Friday, May 28, 2010
Clarksville Funeral Home some observations
There is currently ongoing hearings for conditional use variance for a Funeral Home on a lot zoned for residential use. The location is on 3.5 acres along MD Route 108. The lot is situated between A Lutheran Church to the south and to the north, the residence for the priests at St Louis Catholic Church.
There are numerous considerations in opposition to granting the zoning variance.
One issue, as I see it, is not that a funeral home is potentially to be built in the lot but rather the SIZE and SCOPE of the facility. The neighboring residences range from 2,000 + sq ft to 6,000 + sq ft. The funeral HOME will be 23,000+ sq ft.
I have difficulty in imagining a structure, no matter how well landscaped, being compatible with the residences in the vicinity, as required by the County regulations.
The concept of a Funeral Home in the regulations is archaic and has not been modernized for current operations. Funeral Homes no longer have the funeral director living upstairs with the viewing in the front parlor, as was the practice when the zoning regulations were drafted.
The concept of a Funeral Home in the regulations is archaic and has not been modernized for current operations. Funeral Homes no longer have the funeral director living upstairs with the viewing in the front parlor, as was the practice when the zoning regulations were drafted.
The proposed operation will have 3 viewing rooms, a memorial chapel to seat 150+, a social gathering hall for receptions with kitchen facilities and a hearse museum.
The parking on the plans is for approximately 65 cars. At first look, parking is inadequate and the overflow will most likely park along Route 108, and in both church parking lots.
The next consideration is traffic. The traffic along Route 108 is also a problem, the fact that the church WHICH IS CURRENTLY THERE adds to the traffic in not the issue, the issue is the ADDITIONAL strain this operation will ADD to the traffic on Route 108.
Furthermore, safety is in question with turning lanes, and the lanes to merge in to ongoing traffic as well as to slow down to turn into the facility. There are no plans with State Roads to make any improvements in this regard.
Does Clarksville
Probably.
Is this the best location?
Definitely not.
As to development of the 3.5 acre lot in question, a home for the elderly may be a more appropriate use, one which will not disrupt the peaceful atmosphere of the residential community nor significantly contribute to the congestion, traffic or safety along Route 108.
Sunday, May 09, 2010
Thoughts on Immigration
Give me your tired, your poor,
Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free,
The wretched refuse of your teeming shore.
Send these, the homeless, tempest-tossed to me,
I lift my lamp beside the golden door.
Sound familiar?
It is high time that we control our borders and review the process for aliens to enter our country LEGALLY. We are a country of immigrants. We were taught that is what made us strong. And it DID.
However in the time of celebrating DIVERSITY and of Press ONE for English, the current wave of immigrants are not blending into our society but rather want the benefits with the option to remain separate. The trouble with the current immigration is that they come and stay separate. They do not learn our customs. They do not learn our language. They don't appear to have the dream to become "Americans" as our forefathers did.
We need immigrants and we can certainly appreciate and honor their society and diversity but first, they need to obey our laws just as we do and then they need to embrace OUR Society just as we do and Our Language just as we do with the goal to become not separate but rather one of US.
If immigrants expect the benefits of our society, then join it and help strengthen it. We were proud to be called The Melting Pot. Now we need to find a way to strengthen our society by having a system which is fair to those who want to join us and become one of us with the goal of making Our Society Stronger.
There are no easy answers or easy fixes. The frustration is that we are expecting politicians to solve this extremely complex dilemma. We need statesmen who we can call upon to serve the Country's best interest and forget the party and forget being reelected. They are the only one's who can possibly accomplish this.
Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free,
The wretched refuse of your teeming shore.
Send these, the homeless, tempest-tossed to me,
I lift my lamp beside the golden door.
Sound familiar?
It is high time that we control our borders and review the process for aliens to enter our country LEGALLY. We are a country of immigrants. We were taught that is what made us strong. And it DID.
However in the time of celebrating DIVERSITY and of Press ONE for English, the current wave of immigrants are not blending into our society but rather want the benefits with the option to remain separate. The trouble with the current immigration is that they come and stay separate. They do not learn our customs. They do not learn our language. They don't appear to have the dream to become "Americans" as our forefathers did.
We need immigrants and we can certainly appreciate and honor their society and diversity but first, they need to obey our laws just as we do and then they need to embrace OUR Society just as we do and Our Language just as we do with the goal to become not separate but rather one of US.
If immigrants expect the benefits of our society, then join it and help strengthen it. We were proud to be called The Melting Pot. Now we need to find a way to strengthen our society by having a system which is fair to those who want to join us and become one of us with the goal of making Our Society Stronger.
There are no easy answers or easy fixes. The frustration is that we are expecting politicians to solve this extremely complex dilemma. We need statesmen who we can call upon to serve the Country's best interest and forget the party and forget being reelected. They are the only one's who can possibly accomplish this.
Saturday, August 08, 2009
"Town Hall" Meetings... Right
My Congressman Elijah Cummings (D,MD) has hosted call in High Tech "Town Hall" Meetings to inform constituents on the Government(Democrat's)proposed Health Care Legislation. I applaud the concept but question the medium.
At a face to face Town Hall Meeting, there is public discourse and free access. Opposing views are physically present and can be heard without going through a staff member who can "screen" calls and can "terminate" any "objectionable" calls.
While the concept seems efficient and increases access, it also, for a skeptic as I am, gives a subtle and silent ability to the host (Congressman Cummings and his staffers)to control discourse and influence public opinion by selectivity in which caller are given "air time".
I do not trust the transparency of any politician, especially on highly inflammatory issues such as this.
With the Obama White House asking for the NAMES of critics of the Health Care Legislation, I am reminded of President Nixon's Enemies list. Does anyone else see the similarity? But don't expect it to get the air time Nixon's list did.
Change is here, like it or not! Just please don't believe them when they say it has popular support.
At a face to face Town Hall Meeting, there is public discourse and free access. Opposing views are physically present and can be heard without going through a staff member who can "screen" calls and can "terminate" any "objectionable" calls.
While the concept seems efficient and increases access, it also, for a skeptic as I am, gives a subtle and silent ability to the host (Congressman Cummings and his staffers)to control discourse and influence public opinion by selectivity in which caller are given "air time".
I do not trust the transparency of any politician, especially on highly inflammatory issues such as this.
With the Obama White House asking for the NAMES of critics of the Health Care Legislation, I am reminded of President Nixon's Enemies list. Does anyone else see the similarity? But don't expect it to get the air time Nixon's list did.
Change is here, like it or not! Just please don't believe them when they say it has popular support.
Friday, August 07, 2009
Serious Threat
I fear that the true purpose of the "Change" our President intends is starting to be revealed. In one sense it is politics as usual and that is no real surprise. The radical tenor of the change and the recanting of political campaign rhetoric after the election are no real surprise.
The bail out of the economy which is in fact rewards for and to campaign supporters will bankrupt our economy. Yet, where is the stimulus and what positive affect has been realized?
The rush for Health Care reform, actually, the installation of a socialized Health Care System, is another unaffordable burden which increased Government involvement in our daily lives and actually in our very continuation of life. If this passes, the Freedom of Choice legislation will be totally unnecessary since the legislation requires federal support for abortion. Managed Health Care is another term for rationing.
Our newly elected Supreme Court Justice is another Liberal who will insert her Living Constitution on us. She had demonstrated via the most recent Supreme Court REVERSAL of her landmark decision the rush to opine based upon beliefs with a total lack of analysis or due consideration of existing case law.
The refusal to consider simple requests for legislation to be published 48 hours before any vote and a request that Congressmen and Senators actually READ the bills before they VOTE on them has been dismissed as IRRESPONSIBLE! Imagine that!
We must remain vigilant. Pray that our Republic survives until after the 2010 election and the populace wakes up and reconsiders the support for a radical Democratic policymakers.
In 2010 VOTE EVERY INCUMBENT OUT regardless of party.
Clean House and start over.
The bail out of the economy which is in fact rewards for and to campaign supporters will bankrupt our economy. Yet, where is the stimulus and what positive affect has been realized?
The rush for Health Care reform, actually, the installation of a socialized Health Care System, is another unaffordable burden which increased Government involvement in our daily lives and actually in our very continuation of life. If this passes, the Freedom of Choice legislation will be totally unnecessary since the legislation requires federal support for abortion. Managed Health Care is another term for rationing.
Our newly elected Supreme Court Justice is another Liberal who will insert her Living Constitution on us. She had demonstrated via the most recent Supreme Court REVERSAL of her landmark decision the rush to opine based upon beliefs with a total lack of analysis or due consideration of existing case law.
The refusal to consider simple requests for legislation to be published 48 hours before any vote and a request that Congressmen and Senators actually READ the bills before they VOTE on them has been dismissed as IRRESPONSIBLE! Imagine that!
We must remain vigilant. Pray that our Republic survives until after the 2010 election and the populace wakes up and reconsiders the support for a radical Democratic policymakers.
In 2010 VOTE EVERY INCUMBENT OUT regardless of party.
Clean House and start over.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)