Thursday, January 13, 2011
Monday, August 30, 2010
Pig In a Poke
The phrase, "Pig In a Poke", dates back to the late Middle Ages. It refers to a practice that today would be called a "scam". At that time in history, meat was in short supply. An unwary customer would be sold a "suckling pig" that was placed in a "poke" (paper bag). The customer would not see the "suckling pig" because the bag was closed so as to prevent the "suckling pig" from escaping. On the journey home, the customer would feel the wriggling in the bag, thereby assuring a live "suckling pig". Upon arrival home, the customer would open the bag only to discover a cat.
Two other phrases that came into use much later are: "Let the Cat Out of the Bag"; and "Left Holding the Bag". The first implies that a ruse was revealed, perhaps inadvertently or prematurely. The second refers to a situation in which a "customer" may discover a ruse / scam while in the presence of the perpetrator in which case, both the "cat" and the perpetrator would escape, leaving the customer "holding the bag".
For a moment, allow me to divert your attention from the information above and further down the page, we'll return to the "pig in a poke".
Over the past nine months, I have been working on behalf of a gentleman who was running for a political office here in Pennsylvania. One of the tasks in such an endeavor is to educate the public about the attributes of the candidate. In fact, I discovered I was the one who received an education. It was, and is, amazing to me how my fellow citizens view the political process and their thoughts regarding their part in the process. They do not seen to realize how much their lives are affected by political decisions. They can be catagorized into three groups. I am not sure of the percentage of each of the three groups, but they are significant for the first two.
One of the groups is those folks who do not vote at all. They may "justify" their decision by saying, "All the politicians are crooks, so why should I vote for any one of them". Or they may simply state that, "I'm too busy".
Another of the groups is comprised of folks who, for whatever reason, always vote a "straight party ticket". Perhaps their parents did the same and somehow they feel they would be "dishonoring" their parents if they voted for the opposition or for individual candidates!! Another reason they may vote a "straight party ticket" is that it's quicker to do so rather than vote for individual candidates. Yet another reason is that they feel it is too time consuming, before going to the polls, to research the record(s) of individual candidates in order to be able to choose the best candidates based on their past performance.
The third group is comprised of dedicated folks who take the time to "do their homework" and research the candidates' records. The effort allows them to identify which of the candidates are worthy of their vote. This group can be relatively assured that the candidates for whom they vote will dispatch their responsibilities in a truthful, ethical, and honest manner.
The first two groups are chiefly responsible for decisions made by politicians who should never have been voted into office. Decisions made by them may be described as "mean spirited", selfish, and certainly not in favor of the total population. Those who do not vote at all fail to take the opportunity to rid the ranks of politicians who demonstrate disregard for their constituents. Those politicians are known by their deeds, or more appropriately, their misdeeds.
Those who vote a "straight party ticket" are in fact, voting for a "pig in a poke". While some of the candidates on the ticket may be qualified, upstanding politicians, there may just as well be some who will "show their true colors" once they get into office. By that time, it's too late to ferret out the incompetents, the ne'er-do-wells, and the "hooray for me and the H _ _l with you" candidates.
Such was the case with the primary election on 18 MAY 10 when the majority of voters failed to do their homework. As a result, the gentleman for whom I had worked lost his bid for the Governorship of PA. He had attempted to run a grassroots campaign secondary to the party having endorsed his opponent. That automatically gave his opponent all the finance and advertizement he needed to capture the election. Apparently, folks who did vote, voted for the candidate chosen by the party. They were led like sheep to slaughter.
The man who lost the election clearly should have won. The reason the party endorsed his opponent is clear. They evidently felt they would not have been able to "control" Samuel E. Rohrer. Mr. Rohrer is "cut from a different cloth". He was the only candidate, of both parties, who had introduced a plan six years previously to do away with the most divisive tax imposed on property owners. But all is not lost!!
There is still an opportunity for Mr. Rohrer to become our next Governor. Hopefully, voters from all parties will do their homework and realize that he is the only man eminently qualified for the position. You can learn more about the effort on his behalf at www.samrohrerwritein.org Do a favor for all of us by setting a good example for your children and "do your homework" as you expect them to do.
If we allow either of the other two candidates, running for the Governorship of our State, to win the election, we will be left "holding the bag". The only problem with that scenario is that the "perpetrator" (candidate) who wins the election will not have escaped. He will have retreated to the inner sanctum of the Capitol and set up shop with the "special interest" folks and other jerks who managed to stay in office or get into office because of the registered voters who didn't bother to vote.
Semper Fidelis
Nurse John
Two other phrases that came into use much later are: "Let the Cat Out of the Bag"; and "Left Holding the Bag". The first implies that a ruse was revealed, perhaps inadvertently or prematurely. The second refers to a situation in which a "customer" may discover a ruse / scam while in the presence of the perpetrator in which case, both the "cat" and the perpetrator would escape, leaving the customer "holding the bag".
For a moment, allow me to divert your attention from the information above and further down the page, we'll return to the "pig in a poke".
Over the past nine months, I have been working on behalf of a gentleman who was running for a political office here in Pennsylvania. One of the tasks in such an endeavor is to educate the public about the attributes of the candidate. In fact, I discovered I was the one who received an education. It was, and is, amazing to me how my fellow citizens view the political process and their thoughts regarding their part in the process. They do not seen to realize how much their lives are affected by political decisions. They can be catagorized into three groups. I am not sure of the percentage of each of the three groups, but they are significant for the first two.
One of the groups is those folks who do not vote at all. They may "justify" their decision by saying, "All the politicians are crooks, so why should I vote for any one of them". Or they may simply state that, "I'm too busy".
Another of the groups is comprised of folks who, for whatever reason, always vote a "straight party ticket". Perhaps their parents did the same and somehow they feel they would be "dishonoring" their parents if they voted for the opposition or for individual candidates!! Another reason they may vote a "straight party ticket" is that it's quicker to do so rather than vote for individual candidates. Yet another reason is that they feel it is too time consuming, before going to the polls, to research the record(s) of individual candidates in order to be able to choose the best candidates based on their past performance.
The third group is comprised of dedicated folks who take the time to "do their homework" and research the candidates' records. The effort allows them to identify which of the candidates are worthy of their vote. This group can be relatively assured that the candidates for whom they vote will dispatch their responsibilities in a truthful, ethical, and honest manner.
The first two groups are chiefly responsible for decisions made by politicians who should never have been voted into office. Decisions made by them may be described as "mean spirited", selfish, and certainly not in favor of the total population. Those who do not vote at all fail to take the opportunity to rid the ranks of politicians who demonstrate disregard for their constituents. Those politicians are known by their deeds, or more appropriately, their misdeeds.
Those who vote a "straight party ticket" are in fact, voting for a "pig in a poke". While some of the candidates on the ticket may be qualified, upstanding politicians, there may just as well be some who will "show their true colors" once they get into office. By that time, it's too late to ferret out the incompetents, the ne'er-do-wells, and the "hooray for me and the H _ _l with you" candidates.
Such was the case with the primary election on 18 MAY 10 when the majority of voters failed to do their homework. As a result, the gentleman for whom I had worked lost his bid for the Governorship of PA. He had attempted to run a grassroots campaign secondary to the party having endorsed his opponent. That automatically gave his opponent all the finance and advertizement he needed to capture the election. Apparently, folks who did vote, voted for the candidate chosen by the party. They were led like sheep to slaughter.
The man who lost the election clearly should have won. The reason the party endorsed his opponent is clear. They evidently felt they would not have been able to "control" Samuel E. Rohrer. Mr. Rohrer is "cut from a different cloth". He was the only candidate, of both parties, who had introduced a plan six years previously to do away with the most divisive tax imposed on property owners. But all is not lost!!
There is still an opportunity for Mr. Rohrer to become our next Governor. Hopefully, voters from all parties will do their homework and realize that he is the only man eminently qualified for the position. You can learn more about the effort on his behalf at www.samrohrerwritein.org Do a favor for all of us by setting a good example for your children and "do your homework" as you expect them to do.
If we allow either of the other two candidates, running for the Governorship of our State, to win the election, we will be left "holding the bag". The only problem with that scenario is that the "perpetrator" (candidate) who wins the election will not have escaped. He will have retreated to the inner sanctum of the Capitol and set up shop with the "special interest" folks and other jerks who managed to stay in office or get into office because of the registered voters who didn't bother to vote.
Semper Fidelis
Nurse John
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Down from the top or Up from the bottom?
This writer has worked as a draftsman and usually draws scale drawings of any project before starting to build. When studying architecture, it is a forgone conclusion that the first of the drawings for any structure will be of the foundation. As each drawing of the set is drawn, the structure rises up from the foundation. So it is in Naval architecture, the keel, the "backbone of the ship" is laid first. The hull, decks, bulkheads, and overheads follow in order with the superstructure last.
Apparently Mr. Robert Gleason does not have any knowledge of construction. Rather than building (or rebuilding) the Republican party from the bottom up, he chose to start from the top down. As he will soon see, the structure he is attempting to build will fall like a "house of cards".
The top with which he started to build is with someone who definitely has "name recognition" but absolutely no experience in the day to day system of government. It is interesting to note that Tom Corbett, our Attorney General, someone who supposedly knows the law, would allow his campaign to lower their, and his, level by attempting to torpedo his competitor with negative rhetoric. Does he not realize that by doing so, he is in effect torpedoing himself?
What a pair, an incompetent architect and a professional who apparently knows little of the English language and the basics of ethical behavior. Yet, these two are hoping to sway the hearts and minds of the voter to rocket them into a winning position!! This writer knows not the team who are coaching Tom as he stumbles along, allowing himself to be dragged down into oblivion, but at some point, it is hoped that he will realize that he has been duped by the incompetent architect and his gang of malcontents.
On the other hand, there is hope. Another architect is in the process of drawing a set of plans for a government for our State the like of which has not been seen for many years. Unlike Mr. Gleason, this architect is starting from the ground up. His structure, when completed, will stand the test of time. His plans do not include any deviations from sound engineering principals. Rather than compromising on any detail that will have to be replanned and then rebuilt, his design will first examine every possible weak element and discard it before it detracts from the finished structure. The architect for this structure is singularly equipped to design and construct a government for our State. He is Sam Rohrer.
While the structure's design by Robert Gleason may at first appear more esthetic, this writer cautions any who may be tempted to enter. This writer therefore recommends the structure by Sam Rohrer as the better engineered and therefore the safer to enter and occupy. You are more than welcome to be one of the occupants of the Sam Rohrer state of the art of engineering principals structure. Your application to be one of the tenants is your vote on 18 APR 10.
Semper Fidelis
Nurse John
Apparently Mr. Robert Gleason does not have any knowledge of construction. Rather than building (or rebuilding) the Republican party from the bottom up, he chose to start from the top down. As he will soon see, the structure he is attempting to build will fall like a "house of cards".
The top with which he started to build is with someone who definitely has "name recognition" but absolutely no experience in the day to day system of government. It is interesting to note that Tom Corbett, our Attorney General, someone who supposedly knows the law, would allow his campaign to lower their, and his, level by attempting to torpedo his competitor with negative rhetoric. Does he not realize that by doing so, he is in effect torpedoing himself?
What a pair, an incompetent architect and a professional who apparently knows little of the English language and the basics of ethical behavior. Yet, these two are hoping to sway the hearts and minds of the voter to rocket them into a winning position!! This writer knows not the team who are coaching Tom as he stumbles along, allowing himself to be dragged down into oblivion, but at some point, it is hoped that he will realize that he has been duped by the incompetent architect and his gang of malcontents.
On the other hand, there is hope. Another architect is in the process of drawing a set of plans for a government for our State the like of which has not been seen for many years. Unlike Mr. Gleason, this architect is starting from the ground up. His structure, when completed, will stand the test of time. His plans do not include any deviations from sound engineering principals. Rather than compromising on any detail that will have to be replanned and then rebuilt, his design will first examine every possible weak element and discard it before it detracts from the finished structure. The architect for this structure is singularly equipped to design and construct a government for our State. He is Sam Rohrer.
While the structure's design by Robert Gleason may at first appear more esthetic, this writer cautions any who may be tempted to enter. This writer therefore recommends the structure by Sam Rohrer as the better engineered and therefore the safer to enter and occupy. You are more than welcome to be one of the occupants of the Sam Rohrer state of the art of engineering principals structure. Your application to be one of the tenants is your vote on 18 APR 10.
Semper Fidelis
Nurse John
Sunday, March 7, 2010
Choices
You are soon to make a choice that will have profound consequences for whatever time you choose to make yet another choice. For a moment, let's look at a number of factors that characterize or influence the manner in which we make our choice of one item or action over one or more others. Choices that we make in our lifetime can be classified as either: smart or stupid; good or bad; easy or difficult; etc. Notice that in each case the words used to characterize our choice are at the opposite ends of the spectrum.
At the time we make a choice, we may have spent some time beforehand attempting to wrestle with the decision making process. We try to analyse every aspect that will influence our final decision so as to "make sure" that we have examined not only the expected benefits but the possible detrimental aspects as well.
On the other hand, there are times when we tend to make "snap" decisions / choices without any or very little attempt to think of the possible outcome. Hopefully, this type of choice making is used to arrive at a decision regarding not earth shattering but simple things like, "what color tie should I wear today", or "should I choose the pie or cake for dessert".
In the opening sentence of this blog, I mentioned two choices you will soon have to, or want to make. The first of those choices is, "For whom should vote on 18 MAY" or "Should I vote at all". The answer to the second part of the first choice is definitely, "YES". The first part
requires some thinking. It does not matter to which party you may swear some degree of allegiance.
If you do not spend some time attempting to examine the qualifications of each of the candidates, the choice you make can then be compared to a "crap shoot". It will be like playing "Russian roulette" in which a six chambered pistol is loaded with just one round of ammunition. The chamber mechanism is then spun and the pistol is then pointed at the head and the trigger pulled. The chance that the chamber with the one round in firing position is a one in six chance. If it is in the firing position, the "game" is over!!! The only redeeming quality of the "game" is that if the chamber with the one round is in firing position, the person holding the pistol will no longer be with us to make any other stupid choices.
The second "choice" you will have to or want to make is, if you fail to examine all the aspects of the candidates, and you make the "wrong' choice for the position of Governor, do you want to continue living in the State of Pennsylvania.
As it is, our State is in dire straights financially. I do not believe I have just told you something about which you were unaware. If you just look at those candidates who are vying for the position of Governor and what they have stated as their "platforms" (plans how they would govern our State), it should become crystal clear that there are some (in fact most) who do not have a clue how to get us out of a critical situation. Recently, there are a couple who have parroted the only one candidate who has been very forthright in his plans how he would govern our State. Gee, I wonder why the others never thought of how to accomplish it before they heard Sam Rohrer explain how he would do it???
Before you dismiss my recommendations, before you totally discount Sam Rohrer as the only candidate as the singular candidate to be our next Governor, please look at the two web sites www.samrohrer.org and www.PTCC.US . If you choose not to at least look at the two web sites, I recommend you start making plans to attempt selling your home and moving to whatever location suits your fancy. Remember, you will perhaps not only be affecting the rest of the time you spend in Pennsylvania but you famly's as well.
Semper Fidelis
Nurse John
At the time we make a choice, we may have spent some time beforehand attempting to wrestle with the decision making process. We try to analyse every aspect that will influence our final decision so as to "make sure" that we have examined not only the expected benefits but the possible detrimental aspects as well.
On the other hand, there are times when we tend to make "snap" decisions / choices without any or very little attempt to think of the possible outcome. Hopefully, this type of choice making is used to arrive at a decision regarding not earth shattering but simple things like, "what color tie should I wear today", or "should I choose the pie or cake for dessert".
In the opening sentence of this blog, I mentioned two choices you will soon have to, or want to make. The first of those choices is, "For whom should vote on 18 MAY" or "Should I vote at all". The answer to the second part of the first choice is definitely, "YES". The first part
requires some thinking. It does not matter to which party you may swear some degree of allegiance.
If you do not spend some time attempting to examine the qualifications of each of the candidates, the choice you make can then be compared to a "crap shoot". It will be like playing "Russian roulette" in which a six chambered pistol is loaded with just one round of ammunition. The chamber mechanism is then spun and the pistol is then pointed at the head and the trigger pulled. The chance that the chamber with the one round in firing position is a one in six chance. If it is in the firing position, the "game" is over!!! The only redeeming quality of the "game" is that if the chamber with the one round is in firing position, the person holding the pistol will no longer be with us to make any other stupid choices.
The second "choice" you will have to or want to make is, if you fail to examine all the aspects of the candidates, and you make the "wrong' choice for the position of Governor, do you want to continue living in the State of Pennsylvania.
As it is, our State is in dire straights financially. I do not believe I have just told you something about which you were unaware. If you just look at those candidates who are vying for the position of Governor and what they have stated as their "platforms" (plans how they would govern our State), it should become crystal clear that there are some (in fact most) who do not have a clue how to get us out of a critical situation. Recently, there are a couple who have parroted the only one candidate who has been very forthright in his plans how he would govern our State. Gee, I wonder why the others never thought of how to accomplish it before they heard Sam Rohrer explain how he would do it???
Before you dismiss my recommendations, before you totally discount Sam Rohrer as the only candidate as the singular candidate to be our next Governor, please look at the two web sites www.samrohrer.org and www.PTCC.US . If you choose not to at least look at the two web sites, I recommend you start making plans to attempt selling your home and moving to whatever location suits your fancy. Remember, you will perhaps not only be affecting the rest of the time you spend in Pennsylvania but you famly's as well.
Semper Fidelis
Nurse John
Friday, February 26, 2010
He Who Hesitates is Lost
In Greek mythology, the word Psyche describes a mortal woman who married Eros, the god of love and the son of Aphrodite, the goddess of love. The Greeks were masters of stories that told of love and tragedy. In modern Psychology, the same word refers to one's soul, self and mind. The term Psyche would then be applied to describe one's behavior.
It would appear that the psyche of the majority of we Americans is such that we would rather tolerate an existence that is not beneficial to us and in fact may be detrimental to us rather than initiate steps to change the status quo. Expressed another way, we act like sheep being led to slaughter. Only when the situation strikes a chord that is construed by us as totally unacceptable, do we then rise up as one and attempt to initiate change.
In 1939 -1940, it was the belief by the military of Japan that all Americans were "soft", "not likely to resist", that led them to strike us at Pearl Harbor. They thought we would sue for peace rather than retaliate. At the time, our government had promised its citizens that we would not "go to war". Meanwhile, through the "Lend Lease Act", we were supplying England with the means by which they hoped to defend themselves against Hitler's Nazis.
The raid on Pearl Harbor, 7 December 1941 was the "straw that broke the camel's back" and President Franklin Roosevelt declared war on not just Japan, but Germany as well.
We were not really prepared to go to war against anyone. Our military strength was not ready in terms of numbers of men nor of equipment. It was only a stroke of luck that our aircraft carriers were not in port on 7 December. We had to "start from scratch".
Again when the boys and girls in Harrisburg chose to vote a hefty raise for themselves did it strike a chord with us Pennsylvanians and we responded by voting a number of the politicians out of office.
It is unfortunate that we seem unable or unwilling to take steps that would prevent, or at least lessen the blow, of the next disaster that waits in the wings to strike. I am not referring to a potential disaster!! I am talking about one that will cause much weeping and gnashing of teeth starting next year with the real bombshell coming in 2012!!!
It has been reported in the newspapers, presented on TV news shows, and talked about numerous times in town meetings. I am referring to the huge increase in school / property taxes!!! I have noted it in previous blogs. The current estimate for the increase is 25 to 30 %!!
There is a means by which we can rectify the situation. We have the power to change the course of Pennsylvania history. What are we waiting for? A "Fairy Godmother" will not materialize out of nowhere with her magic wand. The politicians, of their own volition, will not take the steps necessary to initiate the change. We the people must take charge of our own destiny, our own lives, our own homesteads, and rise up with one voice, one vote and dictate our demands or else!!!
Or else what? Or else we will stampede the polls on election day in numbers heretofore unknown in an "off year" election and rid ourselves of those politicians who have demonstrated, by their lack of performance, failure to listen to their constituants.
By that same measure, local school boards do not appear to grasp the enormity of the situation and continue to spend monies as though there was no tomorrow.
To whom can we look for leadership in our quest to lead us out of the present situation? This writer has no reservations in recommending just one person to fill that position. All other contenders either have not the insight nor the foresight to qualify. The one person to whom I refer is Sam Rohrer, the Constitutional Republican!!! To learn more about him I strongly recommend two web sights: www.PTCC.US and www.samrohrer.org . If at all possible, take the opportunity to attend one of Sam's Town Hall meetings. See his web site for one scheduled near you. It will be an eye opener. He is cut from a different cloth than just about any other politician known to this writer.
While my words of praise may sound trite, I challenge you to listen to him, check on his political performance, meet him, present questions to him, and judge for yourselves. Do not use "inductive reasoning" to discount his worthiness!!! (see the blog "Why Should I Vote" posted 23 JAN 10)
This writer has been surprised and disapointed in the comment from a number of folks to whom he has spoken about Sam Rohrer and the School / Property Tax Elimination Act. Their comment generally stated was that, "It will never happen". Do you know why it would "never happen"? There is just one answer. It would never happen because each of us who does nothing will only add to the number of "do nothings" untill NOTHING happens. The situation would only remain the same.
Food will never reach our mouth unless we lift the fork or spoon. We will never achieve the most insignificant task unless we take whatever steps necessary to make it happen. We should all thank the Good Lord that he left nothing to chance in our design. Did you ever think what a chore it would be if we had to control our own heartbeats or our own breathing for all situations? Would we be able to choose the correct rate for each when our bodies needed more oxygen? Would we remember to slow down the rate of each when it was time to retire for the night? Would we be able to speed them up in an instant when faced with an emergent situation?
I do not imagine that there are many of us who are adults and still depend on our mothers to take care of us. That means that we have to do our own thinking. If we fail to make the right choices, we have only ourselves to blame. Let's "put on our thinking caps" and make the only "right" decision not only for us but for our neighbors, our relatives, our friends and all those who already have nothing and with whom we may find ourselves in the not too distant future. 2012 is "just around the corner"!!!
Semper Fidelis
Nurse John
It would appear that the psyche of the majority of we Americans is such that we would rather tolerate an existence that is not beneficial to us and in fact may be detrimental to us rather than initiate steps to change the status quo. Expressed another way, we act like sheep being led to slaughter. Only when the situation strikes a chord that is construed by us as totally unacceptable, do we then rise up as one and attempt to initiate change.
In 1939 -1940, it was the belief by the military of Japan that all Americans were "soft", "not likely to resist", that led them to strike us at Pearl Harbor. They thought we would sue for peace rather than retaliate. At the time, our government had promised its citizens that we would not "go to war". Meanwhile, through the "Lend Lease Act", we were supplying England with the means by which they hoped to defend themselves against Hitler's Nazis.
The raid on Pearl Harbor, 7 December 1941 was the "straw that broke the camel's back" and President Franklin Roosevelt declared war on not just Japan, but Germany as well.
We were not really prepared to go to war against anyone. Our military strength was not ready in terms of numbers of men nor of equipment. It was only a stroke of luck that our aircraft carriers were not in port on 7 December. We had to "start from scratch".
Again when the boys and girls in Harrisburg chose to vote a hefty raise for themselves did it strike a chord with us Pennsylvanians and we responded by voting a number of the politicians out of office.
It is unfortunate that we seem unable or unwilling to take steps that would prevent, or at least lessen the blow, of the next disaster that waits in the wings to strike. I am not referring to a potential disaster!! I am talking about one that will cause much weeping and gnashing of teeth starting next year with the real bombshell coming in 2012!!!
It has been reported in the newspapers, presented on TV news shows, and talked about numerous times in town meetings. I am referring to the huge increase in school / property taxes!!! I have noted it in previous blogs. The current estimate for the increase is 25 to 30 %!!
There is a means by which we can rectify the situation. We have the power to change the course of Pennsylvania history. What are we waiting for? A "Fairy Godmother" will not materialize out of nowhere with her magic wand. The politicians, of their own volition, will not take the steps necessary to initiate the change. We the people must take charge of our own destiny, our own lives, our own homesteads, and rise up with one voice, one vote and dictate our demands or else!!!
Or else what? Or else we will stampede the polls on election day in numbers heretofore unknown in an "off year" election and rid ourselves of those politicians who have demonstrated, by their lack of performance, failure to listen to their constituants.
By that same measure, local school boards do not appear to grasp the enormity of the situation and continue to spend monies as though there was no tomorrow.
To whom can we look for leadership in our quest to lead us out of the present situation? This writer has no reservations in recommending just one person to fill that position. All other contenders either have not the insight nor the foresight to qualify. The one person to whom I refer is Sam Rohrer, the Constitutional Republican!!! To learn more about him I strongly recommend two web sights: www.PTCC.US and www.samrohrer.org . If at all possible, take the opportunity to attend one of Sam's Town Hall meetings. See his web site for one scheduled near you. It will be an eye opener. He is cut from a different cloth than just about any other politician known to this writer.
While my words of praise may sound trite, I challenge you to listen to him, check on his political performance, meet him, present questions to him, and judge for yourselves. Do not use "inductive reasoning" to discount his worthiness!!! (see the blog "Why Should I Vote" posted 23 JAN 10)
This writer has been surprised and disapointed in the comment from a number of folks to whom he has spoken about Sam Rohrer and the School / Property Tax Elimination Act. Their comment generally stated was that, "It will never happen". Do you know why it would "never happen"? There is just one answer. It would never happen because each of us who does nothing will only add to the number of "do nothings" untill NOTHING happens. The situation would only remain the same.
Food will never reach our mouth unless we lift the fork or spoon. We will never achieve the most insignificant task unless we take whatever steps necessary to make it happen. We should all thank the Good Lord that he left nothing to chance in our design. Did you ever think what a chore it would be if we had to control our own heartbeats or our own breathing for all situations? Would we be able to choose the correct rate for each when our bodies needed more oxygen? Would we remember to slow down the rate of each when it was time to retire for the night? Would we be able to speed them up in an instant when faced with an emergent situation?
I do not imagine that there are many of us who are adults and still depend on our mothers to take care of us. That means that we have to do our own thinking. If we fail to make the right choices, we have only ourselves to blame. Let's "put on our thinking caps" and make the only "right" decision not only for us but for our neighbors, our relatives, our friends and all those who already have nothing and with whom we may find ourselves in the not too distant future. 2012 is "just around the corner"!!!
Semper Fidelis
Nurse John
Sunday, February 21, 2010
"Threw down the gauntlet"
A "Gauntlet" is a glove that is made of metal or stiff leather and was worn in medieval times by the knights. Knights were men who usually were in the employ of the king. They acted in the role of part of a private army. They wore full suits of armor to protect themselves as they fought on behalf of the king. They are usually portrayed as riding a horse which was also protected by metal around its head and chest.
This writer is not certain when the custom originated but if a knight wanted to challenge another to "do battle", he removed one of his gauntlets and threw it to the ground in front of the one he wanted to challenge. If the one who was challenged picked up the gauntlet, it signified he accepted the challenge. Usually, a very strict code was followed that specified the time, place, and weapons to be used.
The battle usually began by the combatants riding their horses toward one another at full gallop. Each had a lance that he kept pointed at his opponent and attempted to at the very least, unseat his opponent. If successful, his opponent fell off his horse and hit the ground. It is difficult to imagine how anyone wearing a full suit of armor, and falling to the ground from his horse, was not seriously injured.
If the one who fell was able to rise from the ground and continue to defend himself, the battle continued. The other was not required to dismount and could continue to attempt to strike the one who had fallen with whatever weapon he had, e.g. broadsword, mace, ax, etc.
Again, it is difficult to believe that the one who had fallen would have a reasonable chance to overcome the obvious advantage the other had, being mounted. If you have seen such battles being shown in a movie, the one who had fallen, if the "hero", always managed to win!!!
In our case, Robert Gleason, the chairman of the State Republican Committee, has figuratively "thrown down the gauntlet" by ignoring the reasonable requests sent to him that asked for an "open primary" election. The requests were based on the fact that by his endorsement of one candidate for the governorship of our State over another, he has willfully assumed the stance of a dictator. He has not followed the will of the people (us) and is essentially forcing us to accept the candidate of his choice rather than ours.
We could not accept his challenge without a reply and so have "picked up the gauntlet"!! Given the climate of politics nationally, it would appear that Mr. Gleason, to some degree, has Masochistic tendencies or his neurons are not synapsing as they should. This writer certainly plans to provide Mr. Gleason with as much pain or embarassment as his Masochistic tendencies can stand. As far as his neurons are concerned, this writer knows of no specific cure for his problem other than to recommend he see a Gastroenterologist who specializes in assessment of and appropraite intervention to rectify the situation.
As far as the recommendation noted above, this writer does not intentionally infer any sarcasm but makes the recommendation based on documentation that anyone who's feet "smell" and who's nose "runs" must therefore be built backwards. Given that observation, it then follows that their neurons must reside in a different location than other folks. It is then hoped that Mr. Gleason will be able to identify a professional who will be able to intervene and provide the necessary care that will result in his recuperation and return to the mainstream of society.
In the meantime, Mr Sam Rohrer's followers who began as a squad, have grown exponentially to a platoon, then a company, a regiment, a brigade, a division, a corps, and finally an army!!! We have an army every individual of which has the resolve to achieve victory. It is therefore that this writer extends the invitation to Mr. Gleason, after receiving the appropriate intervention for his problem, to join our ranks in order to provide the most ethical decision making process for the people of our State. That decision being to choose the one who the people (us) want to represent us in the political arena.
Let the games begin!!!
Semper Fidelis
Nurse John
This writer is not certain when the custom originated but if a knight wanted to challenge another to "do battle", he removed one of his gauntlets and threw it to the ground in front of the one he wanted to challenge. If the one who was challenged picked up the gauntlet, it signified he accepted the challenge. Usually, a very strict code was followed that specified the time, place, and weapons to be used.
The battle usually began by the combatants riding their horses toward one another at full gallop. Each had a lance that he kept pointed at his opponent and attempted to at the very least, unseat his opponent. If successful, his opponent fell off his horse and hit the ground. It is difficult to imagine how anyone wearing a full suit of armor, and falling to the ground from his horse, was not seriously injured.
If the one who fell was able to rise from the ground and continue to defend himself, the battle continued. The other was not required to dismount and could continue to attempt to strike the one who had fallen with whatever weapon he had, e.g. broadsword, mace, ax, etc.
Again, it is difficult to believe that the one who had fallen would have a reasonable chance to overcome the obvious advantage the other had, being mounted. If you have seen such battles being shown in a movie, the one who had fallen, if the "hero", always managed to win!!!
In our case, Robert Gleason, the chairman of the State Republican Committee, has figuratively "thrown down the gauntlet" by ignoring the reasonable requests sent to him that asked for an "open primary" election. The requests were based on the fact that by his endorsement of one candidate for the governorship of our State over another, he has willfully assumed the stance of a dictator. He has not followed the will of the people (us) and is essentially forcing us to accept the candidate of his choice rather than ours.
We could not accept his challenge without a reply and so have "picked up the gauntlet"!! Given the climate of politics nationally, it would appear that Mr. Gleason, to some degree, has Masochistic tendencies or his neurons are not synapsing as they should. This writer certainly plans to provide Mr. Gleason with as much pain or embarassment as his Masochistic tendencies can stand. As far as his neurons are concerned, this writer knows of no specific cure for his problem other than to recommend he see a Gastroenterologist who specializes in assessment of and appropraite intervention to rectify the situation.
As far as the recommendation noted above, this writer does not intentionally infer any sarcasm but makes the recommendation based on documentation that anyone who's feet "smell" and who's nose "runs" must therefore be built backwards. Given that observation, it then follows that their neurons must reside in a different location than other folks. It is then hoped that Mr. Gleason will be able to identify a professional who will be able to intervene and provide the necessary care that will result in his recuperation and return to the mainstream of society.
In the meantime, Mr Sam Rohrer's followers who began as a squad, have grown exponentially to a platoon, then a company, a regiment, a brigade, a division, a corps, and finally an army!!! We have an army every individual of which has the resolve to achieve victory. It is therefore that this writer extends the invitation to Mr. Gleason, after receiving the appropriate intervention for his problem, to join our ranks in order to provide the most ethical decision making process for the people of our State. That decision being to choose the one who the people (us) want to represent us in the political arena.
Let the games begin!!!
Semper Fidelis
Nurse John
Sunday, February 14, 2010
The Real McCoy
The general understanding of the phrase "The Real McCoy" is: The best quality; Not a fake; the genuine article; etc. The phrase can be used to describe a person or an object. If one has the option of buying an object, and money is of no consideration, it is assumed one would choose "The Real McCoy". The reason you would choose it rather than any other is that one can be assured one would "get their money's worth". The item will: operate without problems; give the longest service; look the best; etc. When used to describe a person, it would convey the thought that the person was: of enviable qualities; could be trusted in their speech and actions; not pretentious; etc.
With the knowledge of the meaning of the phrase, should one be offered the opportunity to have an example of "The Real McCoy", would they "jump at the chance"? This writer certainly believes they would. Or would one look more closely to determine if there may just be some hidden catch to the offer? There are some who may not be able to distinguish the "wanna-be" from "The Real McCoy". Neither would they spend what time and / or effort may be required to tell the difference. Oh well!! They will just have to put up with the "wanna-be" object or person and the poor service either will assuredly demonstrate if it or they were chosen rather than "The Real McCoy".
Unfortunately, there are a significant number of folks who, given the current financial climate, are not able to afford an object that is "The Real McCoy" and so are forced to make do with a "wanna-be". But what if we could have "The Real McCoy" with no reduction to our meager finances? How about being able to have "The Real McCoy" and, after getting it, are able to increase our financial status because we got "The Real McCoy" and not a "wanna-be? How can that be?
Remember, the "wanna-be" does not give as good service as "The Real McCoy"!! So, it stands to reason that if we had "The Real McCoy" instead of a "wanna-be", we would get better service!! Better service = saving $. Saving $ = increased financial status!!! Still not convinced? What if one could have "The Real McCoy" for nothing? That's right, "nuttin, zip, zilch, zero, squat, etc.!!! No, this writer has not "gone off the deep end".
Keep reading, you'll understand what I'm talking about in just a minute.
On Friday, 12 FEB, the State Republican party held a gala affair at the Harrisburg Hilton Hotel. Sam Rohrer had a debate with Tom Corbett, both of whom are candidates for the Governorship of our State. What was most interesting during the debate were the number of times that Tom Corbett made a comment relative to a statement made by Sam Rohrer and one, regarding a principal held by Sam. Tom's comments went something like this:"I agree with you Sam", and "I'm like you Sam".
AS soon as I heard of Tom's comments to Sam, I immediately thought of the phrase, "The Real McCoy". Now, in this writer's mind, it appears that Tom Corbett "would like to be like Sam Rohrer", given his comments. Gee, that sure sounds similar to what a "wanna-be" would say to "The Real McCoy". This writer has nothing personal against Mr Corbett, but his comments say volumes about Sam Rohrer. Why would Tom want to be "like Sam"? Could it be because, in Tom's mind, Sam is "The Real McCoy"? If so, what does Tom think of himself?
After eight years of what could only be described as dysfunctional leadership, we surely do not need nor want a "wanna-be" at the helm of our State to steer an erratic course. We want and need a captain with exceptional piloting skills who will lay a course that will: get us through foul weather safely; steer clear of shoals; take into account changes in current or wind direction; etc.
There is only one "Real McCoy" who has stated the legs of the course he will follow to get us to port safely. All other applicants for the position of Captain may be able to serve as crew but, there can and must be just one Captain. The only applicant who qualifies for that position is Sam Rohrer.
This writer does not believe any of us would look forward to descending into the briny deep to Davy Jones' locker. Make no mistake about it. If we fail to support the only qualified applicant, "The Real McCoy, Sam Rohrer for the position as our Captain, we will surely join the creatures of the deep. See www.samrohrer.org to learn more of our choice for Captain
Semper Fidelis
Nurse John
With the knowledge of the meaning of the phrase, should one be offered the opportunity to have an example of "The Real McCoy", would they "jump at the chance"? This writer certainly believes they would. Or would one look more closely to determine if there may just be some hidden catch to the offer? There are some who may not be able to distinguish the "wanna-be" from "The Real McCoy". Neither would they spend what time and / or effort may be required to tell the difference. Oh well!! They will just have to put up with the "wanna-be" object or person and the poor service either will assuredly demonstrate if it or they were chosen rather than "The Real McCoy".
Unfortunately, there are a significant number of folks who, given the current financial climate, are not able to afford an object that is "The Real McCoy" and so are forced to make do with a "wanna-be". But what if we could have "The Real McCoy" with no reduction to our meager finances? How about being able to have "The Real McCoy" and, after getting it, are able to increase our financial status because we got "The Real McCoy" and not a "wanna-be? How can that be?
Remember, the "wanna-be" does not give as good service as "The Real McCoy"!! So, it stands to reason that if we had "The Real McCoy" instead of a "wanna-be", we would get better service!! Better service = saving $. Saving $ = increased financial status!!! Still not convinced? What if one could have "The Real McCoy" for nothing? That's right, "nuttin, zip, zilch, zero, squat, etc.!!! No, this writer has not "gone off the deep end".
Keep reading, you'll understand what I'm talking about in just a minute.
On Friday, 12 FEB, the State Republican party held a gala affair at the Harrisburg Hilton Hotel. Sam Rohrer had a debate with Tom Corbett, both of whom are candidates for the Governorship of our State. What was most interesting during the debate were the number of times that Tom Corbett made a comment relative to a statement made by Sam Rohrer and one, regarding a principal held by Sam. Tom's comments went something like this:"I agree with you Sam", and "I'm like you Sam".
AS soon as I heard of Tom's comments to Sam, I immediately thought of the phrase, "The Real McCoy". Now, in this writer's mind, it appears that Tom Corbett "would like to be like Sam Rohrer", given his comments. Gee, that sure sounds similar to what a "wanna-be" would say to "The Real McCoy". This writer has nothing personal against Mr Corbett, but his comments say volumes about Sam Rohrer. Why would Tom want to be "like Sam"? Could it be because, in Tom's mind, Sam is "The Real McCoy"? If so, what does Tom think of himself?
After eight years of what could only be described as dysfunctional leadership, we surely do not need nor want a "wanna-be" at the helm of our State to steer an erratic course. We want and need a captain with exceptional piloting skills who will lay a course that will: get us through foul weather safely; steer clear of shoals; take into account changes in current or wind direction; etc.
There is only one "Real McCoy" who has stated the legs of the course he will follow to get us to port safely. All other applicants for the position of Captain may be able to serve as crew but, there can and must be just one Captain. The only applicant who qualifies for that position is Sam Rohrer.
This writer does not believe any of us would look forward to descending into the briny deep to Davy Jones' locker. Make no mistake about it. If we fail to support the only qualified applicant, "The Real McCoy, Sam Rohrer for the position as our Captain, we will surely join the creatures of the deep. See www.samrohrer.org to learn more of our choice for Captain
Semper Fidelis
Nurse John
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)