Indiana...Do You Need a Change?

     Indiana is a state that offers eleven electoral votes in the presidential election and could be a pivotal state in the future of America.  Your motto, Crossroads of America is a reference to your great city of Indianapolis and its highway hub that connects you to all directions of the U.S. but can also be used as an anecdote for the country in 2012.  We are clearly at a crossroads and where do we turn as a state or country in order to climb out of the dismal position that our leaders have left us?  The first thing we can do is stop complaining and take charge once again and not allow our representatives to continue this regression of values our country has faced over the past thirty or so years.
     In 2008, voters in the state of Indiana barely gave Barack Obama the nod as POTUS with an underwhelming 49.9% of votes compared to GOP John McCain who received 49.0%.  That close margin, however, may not have shown the complete picture as you voted overwhelmingly for a Democratic majority in the House of Representatives.  Then 2010 came around and possibly you were disgusted with the way this country was being run based on propaganda and innuendo from opposing politicians and you turned your house around, just like Illinois, to a Republican majority.  You voted GOP in almost all elections, which inevitably gave Obama very little support in government.  Why the sudden change, Indiana?  Do you know the truth about what Obama has been doing for this country, against all odds?
     Why don't you take the time and read about our POTUS's achievements since gaining office in 2008, with citations of course.  Have you taken the time to research Mitt Romney's political agenda and misconceptions about the role of government and his personal finances?  Do you care enough to be an informed voter in 2012 and help change the direction of government?  You can visit this link if you are still unsure about the ACA(ObamaCare) and what the law actually states paragraph by paragraph in its simplest terms.  Without the truthful knowledge, it is very easy to be misguided as to who will be the better leader for the next four years.  I am in the mindset that if you vote from the bottom up, we can be a much better country as a whole.  By taking part in your local and state elections as well as federal, you are fully taking charge of the full picture, from education to taxes and everything in between.
     It is very easy to elect a POTUS and believe that the rest will jut fall into place.  It is not that easy, however, as there are many incumbents in many states that are elected on name recognition alone and not how they represent you, their constituent.  Help change our direction by going to Indiana.gov and clicking on the about section to register to vote and let your voice be heard.  Taxes right now are at a 30yr low and unemployment is no different than when Ronald Reagan was POTUS.  We need to support our growth with a president that has morals and values, instead of one that refuses to show his tax documents and denies a healthcare law that he, himself, presented a PowerPoint presentation on in 2006.  Where does it end?  When do the voters take back the government?
     I would hope that day would be on Nov. 6, 2012.  All seats in the U.S. House of Representatives are up for re-election and of course the highest seat in the land will need to be secured.  Do not allow this to be a #saddayforusa2012 by not making your vote count.  There are many ways to get the facts on all candidates and time is running out.  A good site to visit is factcheck.org for all truths from all sides of the spectrum.  It is up to you to decide, but with all the mudslinging and untruths that are surfacing we need all the facts we can get.  This election promises to be the most important in a long while and can be devastating to the country if the voters are uninformed.  This country can not afford to stay at the crossroads any longer.  The path is clear, but will our leaders choose what is best?  That is up to us.

Illinois...Do You Need a Change?

     Illinois has been a solidly democratic state for quite some time.  In 2008, Barack Obama won the state by a landslide 61.8% of the votes and gained the 21 electoral votes the state had to offer.  In essence, democrats across the board in their house and senate, won by overwhelming victories.  So what exactly happened in 2010, Illinois?  Why at the time when change began to happen after trying to clean up years of a GOP mess that was George Bush, did you decide to change your house to give the majority to the republicans?
     Did you feel as if our POTUS was not getting the job done quick enough or that the republicans you elected would better serve you, as a state?  Think twice this election in 2012, Illinois.  Think hard and educate yourself because you have a very important say in how the next four years will be handled from our top leader.  By leaving Barack Obama with very little support, this country will never be able to fully change. You need to research and weed out the lies and propaganda and make your vote count this tear more than ever.
     Obama may not be the best POTUS we have ever had, and his sound bites are very easy to misinterpret, but there is a lot of truth in what the man says, while others bite their tongue.  We, as a country, have an opportunity to continue with a president that tells it like it is and does not hold any punches.  This country needs truth and values infused into the system and Obama is our only chance at that progression.  Of course you may or may not agree with the ACA(ObamaCare), but have you actually taken the time to break it down and know what the bill truthfully enacts?  Here is a quick and easy reference guide to understand the law on a level that is easy to understand: ObamaCare.  There are many ways for us to check and double check all information given on the campaign trail from both parties, but if we choose to just listen to the soundbites, we will never be privy to the truth.
     Do you understand that all seats in the US House of Representatives are up for re-election again this year, and if you decide to vote for Obama, it might be in your best interest to give him support in Congress and the Senate?  Will you vote again to keep your GOP led house and shun any chance of change in this country?  Here is an opportunity for you to see the accomplishments of our POTUS throughout his first four years: Barack Obama .  Please take a few minutes and see what a president can do, even without much support for the past two years.  Of course all entries will have citations and references to check the facts.  If you still have doubts there is a website called factcheck.org that you can go to and inquire about any articles you want to check for accuracy.
     There are ways Illinois to take our government back from the liars and thieves that call themselves your leaders and unfortunately at this time in our country's existence, the GOP has not been forthright with their intentions.  How can anyone trust an individual such as Mitt Romney that will not even present his tax records to the public as all other candidates have done.  What is Romney hiding and what are his true intentions?  No longer should we give much stock to meaningless advertisements that skew the truth and propaganda that endorses liars.  Together we can take our country back by the vote.  Register today if you have not done so already at Illinois.gov and scroll down to the quick links to find the forms needed.
     Taxes, believe or or not are at a 30yr low with Obama as our POTUS, and do not forget that even with popular POTUS Ronald Reagan, unemployment was steady at 8.5%.  Do not let this become a #saddayforusa2012 by believing everything you hear until you check the facts completely.  Such as the fact that Romney is calling for repeal of a law(ACA) that he, himself prepared a PowerPoint presentation on in 2006. Whether Bain Capital information, or the ACA, or taxes, there is nowhere for Mitt Romney to hide from the facts.  Why would the American public fall victim to these untruths and pure lies.  Decide for yourself, Illinois, but prepare yourself for a long four years of instability if you do not choose wisely.  Help yourself, your neighbor and your country by taking this election seriously and voting with confidence.

Idaho...Do You Need a Change?

     In the great state of Idaho, there is a motto that remains, Esto Perpetua , which means, "Let it be perpetual." This motto can clearly be a claim used for our nation as well.  However, in these desperate times, constant friction among our elected officials are diminishing our country's opportunity to endure and live on.  It is within this friction that our leaders have forgotten what is important for us as a whole, instead of as individuals.
   All citizens want their right to individuality and for the government to not interfere in their everyday lives.  This is not the reality though, as government officials from the local, state and federal levels feel that they know what is best for you, their constituent.  Do you know who your district representatives are and how they vote for or against you?  Do you understand that your congressmen and senators vote for their affiliated party and not necessarily in your favor?
   When was the last time that you researched your elected officials and their voting records?  Now is that time, Idaho.  Clearly, the path of this country has hit that proverbial fork in the road that leaves us all guessing as to the motives of all officials on all levels.  The only way to take back our nation is to educate ourselves, register to vote and make that vote count.  Your First District Congressman Raul Labrador on July 11th stated that "Idahoans oppose every aspect of ObamaCare."  Is this true, Idaho?  And if so, have you actually taken the time to read the entire bill? The following is a link with citations that you might not have known about the act and what it actually does if you care to find the truth that your congressman may not be telling you. What is ObamaCare and What Did It Change?   
     What else is your elected officials not telling you?  Did you know that Mitt Romney actually gave a powerpoint presentation on this very bill back in 2006?  You can find this link here: Romney Powerpoint. You see, Idaho, that with this world of technology, nothing can be left uncovered and there are ways to check facts or fallacies from both sides.  One good place to look is FactCheck.org  for any information or questions you may want to ask that you can not get an answer for from the GOP or Democrats.  This election year may very well be the most important in recent memory and it is up to you to not only vote, but vote with confidence.  This is not about GOP or Democrat anymore.  This is about taking our country back from the liars and thieves that hold personal agendas and pass it off as the will of the people.
    Talk for yourselves now, Idaho.  Learn the truth from the lies and do not let your officials take your vote and use it for other intentions.  The only way to stop this from being a #saddayforusa2012 is to become smarter than the out of touch politicians that refuse to work together to take a bill like the ACA and change it for the better rather than dismantling it because their name was not on it.  Go to your Idaho.gov  voting registration site to give your vote a voice and then educate yourself or change will never happen for us or our children.  This country needs change and we need it now.  Help yourself and your neighbor by your vote for all levels of your state and federal government.                                                                                                                                                                         

Hawaii...Do You Need a Change?

  Hawaii is made up of a small group of islands that have only 2 congressional districts.  It is the birthplace of incumbent President Barack Obama and most likely will send their four electoral votes his way again in 2012.  But is that the best answer for your home state?  Is Obama a man of his word, or the lame duck POTUS that will only be fought by opposing parties with nothing getting accomplished for four more years?
     Whether it is Obama for a second term or Mitt Romney for an initial run at leading our country, we must decide who will be backing that man up in the Senate and the House of Representatives.  No POTUS can run this land by himself with the checks and balances in place.  Do you know who your Senators and Congressmen are in your state and how they vote for or against you?  Have you taken the time to do the research on those that will become your elected officials?  Quick refernces and information are at your fingertips.  You can always go to http://portal.ehawaii.gov/index.html in order to register to vote, research your representatives and educate yourself on how they use their electoral votes.  We, the people must take this opportunity to take back the government by voting wisely and understanding who we are voting into office.
     Without this knowledge, all that is left is the mudslinging, lies and misunderstanding that is thrown about in the world of social media.  We need to weed out the lies and decide for ourselves what exactly is the truth.  A good way to do this would be to visit factcheck.org and learn what the truth really may be.  It is okay to want to vote GOP or Democrat as an affiliation, but is that candidate truly the best decision for what your state and this country really needs?  Through education as a nation, we may actually be able to reign in our elected officials and let them understand that we want and will force change through the vote.
     Your state motto is Ua mau ke ea o kaina i ke pono. which means "The life of the land is perpetuated in righteousness."  Do you actually live by that motto?  Do you believe that any of our elected officials live by that and have the best interest in heart for all of their constituents?  Well now is the time to test that theory and vote for the righteous of the group.  But the only way to find the truth about the candidates is to actually do the research.  Certain information that you will be exposed to will most undoubtedly be false and misleading.  If you see sites that are not cited and can be referenced, then most likely they will be false.
     Look for organizations such as fact check that are not backed or affiliated with any of the parties and will give a fair and factual account about the questions that you may ask.  If you want to read the actual healthcare law and see for yourself the facts, you can always visit healthcare.gov  and decide for yourself if the law is as bad as Romney is trying to make it.  Then you can go to the Romney Powerpoint on Healthcare  and see that he, himself was a strong proponent of the same healthcare.  You can also read some of my other blogs that cite other articles and fact checked statistics and truths about the candidates.
     One thing is for certain though.  If you do not take the time to weed out the lies, then your vote will not mean a thing.  Do not allow this to be a #saddayforusa2012 with an election of uneducated voters with so much truth and information to be had. Register and vote, Hawaii.  But use your vote wisely because this could be a very long four years if you do not.  Your country needs you now, just as it needs all states to stand up for economic growth and stability and the only ones who can make that change are us, the people of this great nation.

Georgia...Do You Need a Change?

     Georgia residents, are you ready for the upcoming election in November?  Do you realize that all 435 seats in the House of Representatives are open for re-election? Do you also understand that 13 of those representatives come from the peach state?  This year will be remembered for so much backlash and mudslinging about which party is telling the public the truth and which one is merely trying to bewitch the voters by double-talk and unfounded lies.
     This is not a plea to vote one way or the other, GOP or Democrat.  This is simply a call for educational voting so this country can weed out the politicians that do not have the best interest of this country at heart.  You will be plastered with news, both right and wrong about our healthcare system that was put into place by all three branches of government and the thirty-three attempts by republicans to repeal the ACA bill.  You will learn of the hiding of personal finances and taxes by Mitt Romney along with the lack of production of Barack Obama as President.  It is now time to weed out the truth and the lies.  It is now time to take back the country as educated voters who not only know the name of their representative and Senator, but understand how they vote for you as a district and a state.
     It is easy to see the television ads and signs and hear the speeches from the presidential candidates.  Understand that neither major party is capable of doing their due diligence to the post without having those behind him or her to allow change.  Our system is built and will always remain on checks and balances.  No GOP or Democratic POTUS will ever be able to fulfill their duties with constant friction from the other party.  That is why the public must take the vote back and force these politicians to stop outsourcing jobs, fix our educational system and build the infrastructure of the American way.
     Do you realize that if you look at the world literacy rate according to the CIA World Factbook, the U.S. is ranked 28th behind countries such as Uzbekistan, Samoa and Latvia? Andorra is number 1 on the list with a 100% literacy rate.  Since the 1960's when the federal government got more involved with education, we have slowly declined, even though we pay one of, if not the highest per student rates in the world.  Our government is failing us as we move into an extremely important election year.  Go to your state website, Georgia.gov and register to vote, but make it count.  By researching your district or state representatives, Senators and local officials, you will allow change to happen.  You will come across certain politicians that have been in office for 20 or 30 years because your state does not have term limits.
     How "in touch" with society could someone be that has held a public seat for 20 years and quite possibly has gotten elected on name recognition only for the past ten because the citizens have not bothered to vote in any election besides the presidential election.  We must take back our vote.  Do not allow your representatives to use their electoral votes on anyone you do not want in office.  It remains very easy to get caught up in not knowing the facts but there are always ways to find out.  Here are a couple of links for each candidate that must be seen and read by all.  Any one of these can be checked by going to factcheck.org and asking the question.
For facts on the candidates you need only to know where to look. Here are a few sites that you can visit:
Boston Globe-Mitt's Bain Mistake                                                                 Actual Healthcare Law
Taxes at a 30 year low                                                                                              Comparison Chart
Ponzi Scheme Clouds The Romneys                                                                   182 Accomplishments
The Truth About Healthcare                                                         Romney Powerpoint on Healthcare 

     There is only one way to alleviate this nation from the underhandedness of government and their personal agendas while in charge of the country.  Take the power of the vote in your own hand and ballot and cast wisely.  Do not let this be a #saddayforusa2012 Georgia.  Do not allow our elected officials to take advantage of us no more.  If you do not educate yourself then you should not vote and allow yourself to complain later.  There are many ways to fact check what you see and hear and without the leg work involved it is very easy to just believe somebody based on their political affiliation.  This is no longer about GOP or Democrats.  This is about US, as a nation to grow and solidify our infrastructure before we fall even further.  Help yourself, and your neighbor and register today!

Florida...Do You Need a Change?

     The state of Florida has been confronted with so much turmoil over the past decade or two especially in the world of the political spectrum. Ever since Ballotgate of 2000, when Al Gore lost all 25 electoral votes in an alleged voter fraud scandal although winning the popular vote, this state just can not decide on a year to year basis what direction is best for its citizens and the nation.  Eight years of President Bush led to war, rising unemployment, continuing outsourcing of jobs, an ignored terrorist plot and numerous other cause for concern of the public.  Since then, Florida has continued to flip-flop between the two major parties as if playing a game of hot potato.
     In this election year 2012, it is imperative that the 25 electoral votes in this state are not only used wisely, but above reproach.  Do not allow the same mistakes to continue as the citizens of the sunshine state need to take control of the government once again.  In 2008, the state of Florida was on par with the rest of the country as you saw that a change was needed and President Obama was voted into office.  The country came together for the first two years and allowed Obama the benefit of a Democratic majority that gave him flexibility to begin the change that was called for by pundits, politicians and the public itself.  Then the elections of 2010 came and went and that majority dwindled and succumbed to a GOP majority that for two years has scratched, fought and clawed their way into disapproving many of the reform policies that our POTUS put forth.
     Now, as the Supreme Court has upheld a national healthcare reform policy that was generated by none other than Mitt Romney himself, the battle continues.  Republicans across the boards have attempted 33 repeals of the ACA(Obamacare) for no other reason than their own name was not put on the bill.  Do you want facts from the ACA?  Do you want to be another in the line of people that want to discredit this bill before they even know the facts? Go to http://www.healthcare.gov/law/full/ and you can actually see that any of the so-called Obamatax is not what the GOP is claiming.  Do you want more truth? Then visit http://pleasecutthecrap.typepad.com/main/what-has-obama-done-since-january-20-2009.html and you will be able to see Obama's accomplishments with citations.  If the state of Florida does not believe any of these resources, be my guest to visit factcheck.org and post a question for them to respond to as a non-partisan entity.
     As a state, your past ten year voting record has changed more than Mitt Romney's date of his tax extension.  You were right to vote for change and give your POTUS backing in 2008, but to turn around in the next election and render our leader useless was a poor showing of political knowledge.  This country needs a strong, honest, and transparent leader who is not afraid to make a mistake or push to move forward. Yet, there is another in line to unseat him that refuses to allow the citizens of this country see a mere tax return.  A POTUS that hides his personal life from the public should never be trusted again.  We need you Florida.  We need you to not only use your electoral votes rationally, but also to seat House Representatives, Senators and any others that will help our POTUS, not hurt him as he pushes towards the change this country needs and deserves.

     Visit your home site at http://www.myfloridahouse.gov/default.aspx to register to vote, educate yourselves on the elections and candidates that are coming shortly in November.  Do not allow another gaffe in the system by the popular vote meaning nothing.  Vote for change.  Vote for a way that our citizens can look up to our elected officials once again.  Your state motto, adopted in 2006 by then Governor Jeb Bush is none other than "In God We Trust."  Yes, we should all trust in our God, no matter the name, but just as important, we need to trust in ourselves to do what is right for ourselves, our neighbor and our nation by not allowing the lies and deceit to rupture our last threads of dignity.  Register to vote today and do not let it be a #saddayforusa2012.

Is Matt Harvey The Answer For The Mets?

     Dillon Gee is another in a line of injuries for this 2012 Mets team that just keeps finding ways to win.  After losing Mike Pelfrey to Tommy John surgery earlier in the year(Mets fans probably forgot about Big Pelf), the rotation seemed a little unassuming given that John Niese and Dillon Gee were good, but not great starters and nobody knew what they would get out of Johann Santana coming off shoulder surgery of his own.  Then there was the mystery of the Kilimanjaro-climbing R.A. Dickey and how he would grow as a pitcher with a powerless lineup behind him.  The injury to Chris Young earlier this season also put a lot of doubts in most minds, while having only 41 year old Miguel Batista as a fall guy.
     Welcome to the NY Mets 2012 season everyone!  This staff proven that they can pitch with the best of them as Santana has become the number one he used to be, pitching the first no-hitter in club history and Dickey has clearly made a name for himself as one of the top hurlers in the game with a wickedly unhittable knuckler that has left opposing batters clueless.  So as Dillon Gee goes down with having surgery to remove a blood clot from his shoulder, all fans are calling for the Next, triple A phenom Matt Harvey.  Why the big rush to call up a pitcher that can only benefit by a few more AAA starts to fine tune his game?  This is the mystery that leaves one shaking their head.
     Harvey needs to relax, calm down and hone his skills while waiting for his chance in the big leagues.  Batista can be a viable starter for three or four turns, as long as the Mets bullpen gets a lot of rest in between.  Although Harvey could probably be a contributor now, Sandy Alderson should bide his time while waiting for the doctors to complete their assessment of Gee and give a definitive timeline for his return.  As seen on http://www.fangraphs.com/statss.aspx?playerid=sa390378&position=P, Harvey's stats are as follows:

eason	Team	W	L	SV	G	GS	IP	K/9	BB/9	HR/9	BABIP	LOB%	GB%	HR/FB	ERA	FIP	xFIP	WAR
2011	Mets (A+)	8	2	0	14	14	76.0	10.89	2.84	0.59	.335	80.2 %			2.37	2.66
2011	Mets (AA)	5	3	0	12	12	59.2	9.65	3.47	0.60	.327	66.3 %			4.53	3.23
2012	Mets (AAA)	7	4	0	18	18	98.1	9.34	3.84	0.64	.301	77.1 %			3.39	3.45

   
     Clearly, the stats are there, but will Alderson and Collins be taking a tremendous risk in calling up a future star now by possibly damaging his psyche if he has a couple bad outings?  I believe they would and it would be wiser for the fan base to look at it just this way.  The time needs to be right for pitchers such as Harvey, Jeurys Familia, and later down the road, Zach Wheeler.
     Fans would love to see their Next right now, but do not realize the damage that could be done by not showing patience. And there remains one thing that Mets fans should know just as well as the next fan, and that is patience.  Fans have been waiting for quite some time to see and experience an exciting team in Flushing.  These young kids that most scouts around the majors believed was one of the worst farm systems around has clearly proven that they belong in the majors.  Maybe Omar Minaya knew what he was doing all along.  It is time now for the fans to enjoy the second half as they did the first: ride the wave and leave the decisions to management.  Allow Johann, R.A., Niese and Young to do what they have been doing to keep their team in the games, and hope that Alderson makes a move or two at the deadline to improve the bullpen and acquire a right-handed power bat(not named Bay).
     This is what will allow the fans to enjoy what has been so far a magical season to date.  There will be time enough for the Harvey's and the Wheeler's of the system to break onto this major league club and win the hearts of fans as well as some ballgames.  To rush Harvey now would only be giving into the notion that the time is now for a club that is only hovering around the final wild card spot and remains 4.5 games back in their division at the break.  The time is not now.  This is not a World Series winning team, although nobody can deny that in the weak NL,  you can completely exclude them from possibly making the World Series.  Relax everyone, you will see Harvey soon enough.  Just remember that you must have faith and trust in the way that Alderson is going to run this team.  Do not let the magic swell your heads to make rash decisions.  As fans the only motto you will ever be able to live by is simply, "You Gotta Believe."  And for 2012, that is exactly what you should be doing.

Delaware...Do You Need a Change?

     Delaware, that small parcel of land that is nestled between the Atlantic Ocean just south of N.J. and north of Maryland has largely been a forgotten player in the world of the political spectrum.  Your fine state has a way of making the most out of your three electoral votes when it comes to the presidential elections.  Clearly, your fine state has taken a legitimate stance when it comes to voting Democratic for quite some time.  Although Joe Biden resided in your state, it is hard to believe that you voted Democratic for no other reason than to change the nation that former President Bush had left.  That is why you followed up the presidential election with putting in place the right Congressman and Senators that would allow Obama to be better suited to complete his job.
     Now more than ever, the nation needs your assistance in getting the word out that this year's election should be no different than 2008.  Your POTUS needs your help and the help of all that want change in the USA.  I am not saying that Mitt Romney is not a smooth businessman or a growing figure in our national spotlight, but as he grows, so do the warts he carries with him.  As you have seen the past four years, President Obama may not be perfect, and not everything he has proposed has been for everyone's benefit.  However, when you look at his accomplishments with the fact that for two of these years, he has met incredible opposition from the GOP, it is even more amazing at what he has done.  For these accomplishments, you can go to http://pleasecutthecrap.typepad.com/main/what-has-obama-done-since-january-20-2009.html and please feel free to share with those that may still want to vote Republican.
     You see, Delaware, it is up to all of us to spread the truth and facts about our POTUS so that many will not be inclined to just vote GOP because of sheer incompetence.  Over the next few months, there will be numerous reports of slander about Obama and his taxing the middle class and our national healthcare, but with the facts, we can set the record straight.  There are several quality information hubs that one can go to for checkable facts and truth before sharing the lies and GOP innuendo that can only hurt all politicians as we move forward.  Websites such as http://factcheck.org/ , http://thinkprogress.org/economy/2012/07/11/514384/taxes-30-year-low-obama/?mobile=nc, http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2012/07/09/extending-middle-class-tax-cuts-98-americans-and-97-small-businesses are just a few of the places where you can get reputable facts that are checked and detailed.
     You have done your part up to this point, but with your Senate primaries coming up on Aug. 14th, are you registered to cast that ballot that will bear the name of your representative for the next six years?  You can visit http://www.delaware.gov/ and click on voter services to find all you need to know about registering and absentee ballots or other info you may need to know.  Also on this site, you can find out who your candidates are for your Senate and House elections and review how they vote for you, their constituent.

By allowing yourself to gain the information needed to vote with confidence, you are also allowing others to help truly change the direction this country is heading.  Just remember that what a politician states may never be truth, but there are ways to check, double-check and call out our elected leaders on their lies and underhandedness.  Do not let this be just another #saddayforusa2012 with an uneducated and lackadaisical approach to running our country.
     Pass your knowledge along to family, friends and others that may not know how to reveal the truth about the way this country is being torn apart by quibbling members of the political parties.  Expose the truth and earn your motto of "Liberty and Independence."  In the end, if we do not, as a people take back our vote and democracy in our fine nation, then there will never be a guarantee of either in the future.

Dickey Gets Screwed

     It's bad enough that, as Sandy Alderson put it on Twitter, that a city of 8 million was outvoted by a city of 800,000 when Pablo Sandoval won the starting spot over David Wright in this years All-Star Game in Kansas City.  But when you have a pitcher that has been far above the rest of the pack as R.A. Dickey has, it is virtually impossible to fathom him not getting the starting nod over Matt Cain of the San Francisco Giants in 2012.  What Tony LaRussa is thinking is beyond everyone when it comes to choosing his starter.  The only answer he can give is that Cain is every bit as deserving and he will be pitching to his own catcher, Buster Posey, who I might even mention should most likely not even be starting himself.
     Dickey, whose stats in all categories are better than anyone's in the National League has definitely been screwed by LaRussa and his shallow thinking.  Dickey's stats include a 12-1 record while supporting 123 strikeouts, a 2.40 ERA, and a miserly 0.93 WHIP.  Just a few short weeks ago, Dickey had back to back one hitters and was incredibly unhittable as batters wailed and fluttered at his perfected knuckleball.  Do not get me wrong, Matt Cain and his 9-3 record, 118 strikeouts, 2.62 ERA and 0.96 WHIP are very formidable when having to make a decision.  But there has been nobody on any team in either league who has been absolutely sparkling on the mound as R.A. has while pitching for a team that is dead last in OPS and is tied for 13th in batting average.
     While the All-Star game means something at the end of the year, one would figure that LaRussa would love to start with a knuckler like Dickey for two innings then transition to a hard thrower as Cain for the next two.  The idea that Posey, or any catcher for that matter, would have trouble catching Dickey, is all the more reason to start him.  It would be far better to have a couple of passed balls at the beginning(if that is even the case) while there are no runners on, then later with the possibility of an incredible AL All-Star lineup that includes the like of Cano, Granderson, Fielder, Ortiz and Hamilton circling the bases.  This remains just another in a long line of questionable moves that LaRussa has made throughout his career and, although he has a few rings on his hand, it doesn't make the decision any easier to handle in the N.Y. market.

     Mets fans finally have two All-Stars that they can be purely proud of, and in the end, still feel jaded at the selection process and a managers decision that leaves millions of fans scratching their heads.  R.A. Dickey will never allow the decision to affect him in any way, as it is surely a welcome just for him to be representing the NL in his first All-Star game.  The man who swam across the Mississippi and nearly drowned, climbed Kilimanjaro, and grew up amidst child abuse would never allow LaRussa's snub to unfocus his center.  But be sure of this, R.A.Dickey will come out of this All-Star break more focused than ever.  Dickey does not portray a man that likes to be screwed, although he will never show it.  So, even though Mets fans may disagree with you, Tony, maybe we should thank you for given our knuckler just another reason to rise against the odds.  Possibly, this decision may turn out to be the one to allow the fans the enjoyment of a CY Young Award winner when all is said and done.  Then Mets fans can turn around and say, "screw you, LaRussa!"

Connecticut...Do You Need a Change?

     This country is on the verge of one of the most difficult decisions an election year has imposed on its citizens.  We are a humbled nation that has been amidst a terrible run of high unemployment, incredulous debt, and bi-partisan war on what is truly the best for us as citizens.  Where did this catastrophe begin, and how does it end should be first and foremost in every Americans mind.  Will we allow our children to inherit a broken down shell of a country because our elected officials decided that personal gain and notoriety are more important than truth and value?  Do we need to wait until we are on the verge of being a third world country in order to educate ourselves and rid the nation of the hopeless infighting amongst the major parties?
     It is time Connecticut to register, educate yourself, then vote with authority in all levels of your government.  All 435 seats in the US House of Representatives are up for re-election this year, as well as some Senators, and of course, the POTUS.  You, as a state, have done a fine job in your state house, as well as in your US representatives to allow some backing to the current POTUS.  You need to still cast your next vote wisely, though, as the challenger, Mitt Romney is trying to buy his election through smoke, mirrors, and lies.  According to http://www.270towin.com/states/Connecticut , the state of Connecticut is clearly leaning towards another Democratic presidency, and if that is your choice, so be it.  But remember, all presidents need the help of those around him and by allowing the US House/Senate become GOP, there will be nothing more than a lame-duck POTUS for the next four years.
     Mitt Romney was the father of the ACA(Obamacare) and now is trying to appeal to the public for its dismantling.  That is the nature of both parties instead of working together to enhance the bill, they want the credit for it or it must be destroyed.  Look back at the Bush years, and you will undoubtedly see the strains of war, rising unemployment, and overspending, while the country slowly fell into a recession.  A recession that we are still trying to dig ourselves out of.  Do not let this happen again.  We are a nation of immigrants that came to this land looking for opportunities not afforded to citizens of other countries.  Our freedom and hope of prosperity are what makes us strive to become better.  Do not let the politicians ignore our vote or our passion.

 

     From local to state to federal government, we must be educated and weary of the individuals that are running our lives each and every day.  Let them understand that the underhandedness of those that WE elect will not be tolerated anymore.  Go to http://www.ct.gov/sots/cwp/view.asp?a=3179&q=489908 to register and have your voice heard as a member of your great state and nation.  Allow yourself the freedom and responsibility of saying that you have made a difference in 2012.  You can find all information about your state representatives for your district at http://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/menu/house.asp and see if they are voting the way you have asked them to or contact them to see if their values and ideas coincide with your own.  Only you, as a voter, can make a difference and help this country and your state strive to become a better place for all that call America home.
     Qui transtulit sustinet, or, "He who is transplanted still sustains" is a motto that is dying with every election we allow to go to waste.  We are all transplanted in one way or another and there may no longer be a guarantee that we will sustain if we allow both of these major parties to work only for themselves.  Do not allow this to be a #saddayforusa2012 by ignoring your right to vote or your right to vote wisely.  You can vote in any POTUS you may want, but by not educating yourself on those that surround him, this country will not move forward.  Incumbents in this country are set in their ways and a new person with new ideas who is attuned to society is needed to help us grow.  Go now, Connecticut, and allow your 7 electoral votes be your own, not the governments'. 

Colorado...Do You Need a Change?

     Colorado is and always has been a swing state that can make a difference with their 9 electoral votes that are up for grabs.  Both Obama and Romney alike will look to your state to help launch a new directive.  Beware, though, Colorado.  Beware of the lies and insidious approach that the leader you pick will carry out.  According to http://www.270towin.com/states/Colorado you are clearly evenly matched with both presidential candidates.  But is it the POTUS ballot that you should be so focused on?  Will this really be THAT important of an election for our next POTUS?  Well simply put, yes and no.  While you are clearly divided on the leader of our country, you must be applauded for the term limits set for your elected officials in all levels of your state government.
     As your records show, there are only a handful of representatives that have approached their term limits.  This could be for one of two reasons.  First, you have grown weary of the broken promises of most of your leaders, or the past officials had met their term and you had no choice but to rid yourselves of them.  You have seven districts that lay claim to your US Representatives, and the GOP has the majority at this time.  Your Senators are both Democratic and one might think that the state of Colorado has a nice balance between the two parties.  Even your state House of Representatives are almost even with Democrats holding the advantage 35-33 over the GOP.  You, Colorado, take the term swing state to the extreme.
     If there was ever a time for you to make a statement it would be in 2012.  Although President Obama is clearly not perfect, look at the state of the nation now compared to the Bush years and you will see a tremendous amount of support in what he has accomplished.  The national healthcare that has been implemented needs to be fine tuned instead of trashed and unemployment has been lowered while our President is trying to upgrade our education as well as keeping jobs in the states.  He has no help though and you must be diligent in your efforts to vote those Senators or House members into office that will help him, or Romney if that is your choice to do their job for our nation.

     The only way to take back our government is to educate ourselves to what we want, then command that your elected officials vote for you, not against your will.  You can go to http://www.colorado.gov/government/government/elected-officials.html to find out who your representatives are in your district and see if they are handling their jobs with your support or disgust.  Contact them and see what they stand for. Ask yourself if the ballot you are going to cast will help the country and your POTUS.  Do you like the way this country is headed?  Is there a reason why you have always been a swing state instead of making a definitive choice between the two major parties?  How will you go about ensuring that your vote will count?  If you need to register to vote, do not wait too long.
     Visit https://www.sos.state.co.us/Voter/secuRegVoterIntro.do to vote and cast that vote with certainty. Do not let this be just another #saddayforusa2012.  As one of the primary swing states, your fellow Americans need you to take this election seriously and confidently to ensure the next four years will be better than the last four.  Only you can make that difference.  Do you need a change?  I'll tell you one thing, this country needs a change.  A change from manipulation, secrets, lies and non-bipartisan leadership.  The American public need to put the vote back in our hands before it is too late.  You may live by the motto, Nil sine Numine, "Nothing Without the Deity", but we, as a country, will be nothing without the vote. 

America! It Is Time To Show Your Independence!

     Today is the day that our forefathers believed would live in infamy.  The day that our country was fought for, and won by us, the American people who saw an opportunity to better a life for all as individuals.  On this day, in 1776, a document written by Thomas Jefferson was adopted by our leaders as The Declaration of Independence.  This was our declaration to separate our colonies from Britain and their monarchy.  Eleven years later, our nations delegates provided a system of checks and balances in the form of a three branch government consisting of  executive, legal and legislative branches to ensure that no one person would be able to rule.  This system, while not perfect, has been the basis of our country since, and has clearly given its citizens an opportunity for freedom.  As the nation has grown, this system has given rise to many individuals vying for the same political seats with very different ideas on how this government should be enacted for the benefit of the people.
     Republicans, Democrats, Tea Party candidates, Independents, and any other political party that has surfaced are so far apart on the issues that it is almost impossible to put into place a government that has the public's interest at heart.  Who do we believe anymore?  Where is the dignity and truth that elected officials need to put forth in order for the citizens of this great country to choose the right candidate for the job?  Simply put, there is none.  Mitt Romney was the creator of the national healthcare reform that President Obama has now put into place.  Yet, because it was Obama and not himself, his platform must dispute, ridicule and delude the public into believing that it is nothing more than a tax on America.  Politicians can no longer agree even to disagree and have put themselves in the position to never get along and this is where the public must be weary.
    When you register to vote this year, and head to the polls, ask yourself these questions before you place your ballot. Has my elected representative voted on my behalf during his/her term?  Have they been truthful with the constituents on laws, referendums, and their personal history?  Does this representative or senator want to change the country or is he/she running for personal gain?  Have the representative(s) in my district simply been in their seat too long and become complacent that name recognition alone will vote them in to office?  Do your senators or representatives back your POTUS and want to help eliminate the most pressing issues that we face today (eg. deficit, unemployment, healthcare)?
     If you are the type of person that is content with the way this country is being run today, then hopefully you will look further and educate yourself BEFORE this election in November.  This may be one of the most important elections to date in this country and you are needed to cast a ballot that will determine a substantial upswing or downward spiral for this country.  Whatever state you live, you can go to your state's home page and research your representatives and senators that are up for re-election this year.  Find out how they vote for you, and if they are right for the change that is needed in this nation.  Do not let this next vote be the one that got away.  Obama needs help as a POTUS, and if Romney gets elected, he will need help as well.  The POTUS can not do it by himself.
     Do you like the fact that we have a deficit at over $16Trillion dollars, an unemployment rate over 9%, a national healthcare plan that may not be perfect, but can use someone to polish it, instead of dismantle it, and politicians that refuse to work together for you, the citizen?  Do you want this country to keep going in the wrong direction, instead of doing what our forefathers wanted us to do, and have a choice and opportunity to make a difference at the polls?  Them educate yourself and tell your local, state and federal politicians that you will no longer tolerate their falsehoods and empty promises.  Let them understand that if the newly elected officials do not work for you, the constituent, that in 2, 4 or 6 years, you will use your voice to vote them out also.  This is OUR country, and we need to take it back.  Do not let this be just another #saddayforusa2012.  Vote, America, and take back your independence from the same ones who have taken it from you; the government of the United States of America!

California...Do You Need a Change?

     California, land of the gold rush of 1848-1855, home to Hollywood and its' tremendous stars, and some of the most progressive, free thinkers in the world.  The state in which sets precedent, as opposed to following others.  Your motto of 'Eureka!', meaning "I have found it" is exactly what your settlers had done in the late 1800's.  You found the land that would become the entertainment capital of the world and give birth to many precocious and trend-setting laws that would not only shock the nation(eg. legalizing marijuana), but allow other states to follow.
     For all of the state of California's assets, it is truly amazing to try and understand  the political life of your representatives and senators.  In this election year 2012, ask yourself as a voter if your elected officials have truly voted on your behalf and have your best interests at heart.  As a prominently Democratic state with your liberal laws, it is astounding to see the life expectancy of a representative in your state is at least 16 years.  The state of California has 53 districts, of which 38 of those districts have representatives that have served you for 10 years or more.
     20 of your representatives have been serving your districts for more than 20 year, while six of them have been in the same seat for more than 30 years.  Is it time for a change, California?  Do you realize that in a state that has laid claim to Darrell Issa and his Fast and the Furious fiasco which may never end, http://www.newsday.com/opinion/oped/sanchez-issa-s-fast-and-furious-inquiry-1.3814287, and Nancy Pelosi and her possible profit on visa stocks http://www.csmonitor.com/USA/Latest-News-Wires/2011/1115/Did-Nancy-Pelosi-profit-from-Visa-stock-purchases, you, the voters keep electing the same officials every two or six years?  Do you know that your Senators Boxer and Feinstein have been in the same seat since 1993?  That means they have served for nearly twenty years under three administrations.

     Whether or not it is Obama in office or Romney, a POTUS needs help from those that are supposed to be working for his administration.  Are you positive that all of these long time electives have been serving their president and their constituents in a way that is productive for the nation?  Do you know the person you are voting for, or do you go to the polls and place your ballot on name recognition alone?  It may very well be time, as the ACA(Obamacare) is being criticized and mocked for being a Democratic tool, although it was a Republican brainchild, to research your representatives and find out just what kind of elected official they are and how they vote for you. Go to http://www.govtrack.us/congress/members/CA and do the right thing for yourself, your neighbor, and your country.  Do not vote blindly, for it is within this blind voting that our nation will not recover.  For years we, as a nation, have put too much trust in those that are elected to represent us and that has led to nothing but a deficit over $16Trillion, unemployment at an all-time high, real estate markets that have not resurged, and a broken hope for our children as this country moves forward.
     Do not let this become just another #saddayforusa2012 as the election looms and uncertainty is the only thing that remains certain.  Our politicians on all levels must be held accountable to stop the infighting amongst them and to start working together.  Put limits on the terms for each member elected, such as other states have done and if your politicians do not work for you, then get them out and let the next one have his/her chance.  The state of California has become stagnant with the same names and faces for too many years and now is the time to make a difference for this election and those that your children will be a part of in generations to come. Go to http://www.sos.ca.gov/elections/voting-in-california/ to register to vote and make a change. Become part of the solution for this country, instead of part of the problem.

Above The Law--Hold NJ Troopers Accountable!!

     NJ State Troopers are not having a very good year so far in 2012.  It is absolutely outrageous, as a citizen of this state, that the code of Duty, Honor, Fidelity of our supposed heroes is laid waste by the many unlawful acts that they have been committing.  Now I am sure there are many trustworthy, hardworking and honest officers that are serving the law, but it is disgraceful that the bad officers are allowed to get away without more than a slap on the wrist.  Riddled by the catastrophe that was deemed "Death Race 2012" earlier this year when officers were escorting a caravan of cars in a high speed race down the Garden State Parkway, which involved then running back of the NY Giants, Brandon Jacobs, now another officer has admitted to stealing over $7000 worth of gas.
     This is your taxes at work New Jersey!!  Staff Sgt. Steven M. Jones, 25 years on the trooper force, not only stole the gas that OUR taxes pay for, but was given a plea agreement from Internal Affairs to retire with 50% of his pay instead of 65% and all he lost was his medical benefits.  Unfortunately for most in this state, that theft would have translated into at least four years in prison, a felony on their record and no pension.  It is appalling that this is allowed to happen.  Police officers are in place to uphold the law, not circumvent it for their own gain and the gain of their families, then walk away with a smile on their face.
     Jones claimed in his hearing that he abused alcohol and did not always follow his treatment program and had incurred a lot of debt which ultimately led to his theft.  I do believe that seems to be the same excuse that many criminals use in their defense and it is usually left to a judge to determine a penalty for breaking the law, not a retirement board.  Jones should have been charged and left to face the system like all others that he has had to arrest for 25 years.  What gives him the right to be above the law?  The unlawful practice of those that should be upholding the laws in this state are beyond reprehensible and they are not being held accountable.
     You can go to http://www.nj.com/news/index.ssf/2012/06/state_trooper_pumped_7k_of_gas.html to see the full story and let Governor Christie know that the taxpayers want to hold these individuals to higher standards.  As you drive around, there are numerous officers that are talking on their phones and typing on their computers while swerving in and out of traffic, and many others that are doing the same things as the "criminals" on the streets, yet only receive a transfer or a forced retirement.  Good thing for the new ACA, now Jones will be able to afford quality healthcare at a good price while making $50,000 a year in retirement instead of $1.35 a day in one of the states fine correctional facilities.
     Theft is theft, no matter who you may be in life.  Many people have legitimate addiction disorders and could have been given the benefit of the doubt instead of rotting away in a penitentiary.  But, I guess when you have the law on your side, then you are not labeled a criminal, but just a poor decision-maker.  Chris Christie has to investigate further and let his Troopers understand that this will not be tolerated.  The only way to do this is treating them as citizens, not as someone who is Above The Law!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch_popup?v=Wx-XTDuZ2Hs&vq=medium#t=40