InterIceAge4

2007-08-04T18:58:00.001-05:00

YouTube - Trachtenburg Family Slideshow Players - Eggs

O'Reilly Questions McCain On Immigration Reform

2007-06-06T10:38:00.001-05:00

About a week ago now, John McCain appeared on Bill O'Rilley's Factor show. During the appearance, O'Reilly pressed McCain with questions about U.S. Immigration reform legislation.
I read this little piece on the affair at the NewsCloud web page. I thought I might make a point or two, which I haven't seen mention made of anywhere else.

O'Reilly then asked McCain, "Do you understand what the New York Times wants, and the far left want? They want to break down the white Christian male power structure of which you are part, and so am I." O'Reilly went on to insist, "You've got to cap [the number of immigrants.]" "We do, we do. I agree with you" said McCain.

I agree with O'Reilly, America needs, and desperately, to get control of immagration. This is clearly a matter of national security first and foremost, laying aside all cultural, social and political ramifications. We have no idea who is crossing our borders.

Remember our JFK friends who planned to blow up the airport? They were from the Caribbeans. "One, named Abdul Kadir, was until recently a member of the Parliament in Guyana. Kadir was arrested Friday as he was boarding a flight from Trinidad to Venezuela, where he planned to pick up a travel visa to attend an Islamic religious conference in Iran."

The point is that Islamic terrorists use all points outside the U.S. to conduct their nefarious business. We can't think make the mistake of thinking they aren't close. They operate in the Caribbean, Mexico, Central and South America. In the 1960's American's freaked out when Communism crossed into the Western hemisphere, settling nicely in nations like Cuba. Communists and Tyrants operating in the Americas still freaks us out. But, not Islamic terrorists? We need to be aware that our porous borders make it much easier for terrorists groups, of any stripe, to infiltrate our country with human personnel, and/or other materials and resources- dirty bombs, chemicals, and other frightening possibilities.

O'Reilly misses the mark in referencing a white, Christian, male power base. That little bubble has already burst. The glass ceiling is in a death throes. Women and minorities have arrived people. The very real, very pragmatic American notion of hard work and determination make it possible for anyone to realize their goals. Few will be surprised, or even offended, on that day, and it is coming, when America elects it first, female, black, Hispanic, or Asian president. Only, the ignorant, unenlightened, and truly biased in this country will take umbrage.

What O'Reilly doesn't seem to get is that the real problem is with the schism in this country between the conservative right and the liberal left. If the complexion of American politics were to change this is where the shift will be. Could millions of immigrants, newly naturalized and granted citizenship, wipe out the political/cultural right in this country. Possible, but not likely, in my opinion. America is simply too large, and too diverse. The healthy give and take between this country's right and left seems poised for continuation.

O'Reilly's heart is in the right place, but we Americans have larger issues to worry about. Yes, feather in a certain number of Mexican immigrants. But by all means stop this cyclic wave of pardons. We must control our borders and set clear, reasonable limits on immigration into this country. Other larger issues we need to face have to do with energy, terrorism, constitutional issues, education, and social ills.

How does all this fair for John McCain? I think it neither helps nor hinders the man. I admire Mr. McCain tremendously. We could do worse as far as leaders go. I simply don't happen to think he has too much chance of winning the White House in the first place.

Shoes- Kelly

2006-09-13T17:28:00.000-05:00

Maybe it's time for VeryTerry to Lighten Up...

So, let's get some shoes...

Funny? uh, yeah... Shoes

Five Years Ago If You Recall

2006-09-10T11:48:00.000-05:00

I think about 9/11 as I sit here at my PC five years further on. I look out the window. The morning here is bright and clear, very much like it was on that day. What am I thinking? I recall some of the feelings and impressions I was feeling then. Allow me, on this fateful anniversary's eve, to share with you a few of my most poignant memories...

Memorial Light Columns, spring, 2002

I remember at some point on that day thinking, "this is how the Pearl Harbor generation must have felt." It was a quite real feeling of weight right in my stomach as I realized then that the day's events would play a major new factor in our collective destiny as Americans. It has.

I also remember just how, what's the word here? Well, sober and clear everyone seemed to be just after. People were more lucid than usual it seemed. People were also more sensitive and helpful to each other. It spite of the potential for chaos, folks kept level. Catastrophe was in the making, Americans delt with the situation with tender heroics. Instead of a demoralizing effect on Americans, national identity and pride were the psychological substance brought to the fore. As days passed, we looked closely at ourselves. We asked ourselves questions and became most introspective. We picked ourselves up and went back to work. Avoiding economic chaos is an amazing American characteristic. We also showed self-disciplined restraint toward a collective will to retaliation. We chose not to blindly visit the same cruel and useless violence on even our attackers. Ultimately, we realized the American essence, which prior generations would have seen in us, realized it and been proud. I think this effect still lingers. It is what they term an "unintended, positive consequence."

I also remember the days after 9/11 and the quiet skies. Flying was banned if you remember. The couple of nights after 9/11, I remember standing outside in the evening noting the very tangible absence of planes. The night was brilliantly quiet. No small plane drone, no helicopter throbs, and no jet roar. It was actually rather beautiful.

Today, who knows? America does appear to be somewhat more secure. At least, we have not had any attacks on the home soil. For certain, the victims of 9/11 deserve remembrance and honor.

We have an enemy that melds into crowds. An enemy who won't put on a uniform. An enemy bent on pushing a fascist Islamic agenda. An enemy that hides behind civilians and cries foul if any should find themselves in harm's way. How hypocritical? We find ourselves facing an enemy which utilizes the terror tactic, and spreads hate and untruth with propaganda.

The New Freedom Tower Design- Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, LLP- Slated for Completion in early 2011

I applaud the millions of Americans who know the serious nature of the threat we continue to face. May our nation continue to stay unified and strong. Let us all maintain our commitment, patience and courage. After all, our American principles- and indeed Western civilization- are a way of life we must always be willing to fight for to maintain.

North Korea: Hey, the cold war is supposed to be over.

2006-06-24T09:38:00.000-05:00

We Americans are basically a good hearted people. If there is disaster on this planet you know the US is going to be there with aid and assistance. Americans are also a peace-loving nation. We don't want war on our own soil, and many of us don't want the US involved in any fighting anywhere on the globe. The cold war is over we tell ourselves. What's to fear?

Well, today boys and girls, VeryTerry wants to mull that idea over a bit in light of North Korea's "dear leader," Kim Jong Il, who it seems, to coin a cliche here, Didn't Get the MEMO!!!

Hey, you over there, North Korea... the Cold War is supposed to be over dudes...

Simply lumping North Korea in with nations like Iran and groups like Al-qaeda is incorrect. The ideologies are worlds apart. However, I am sure North Korea's Kim Jong-Il would be more than happy to supply the jihadists' with biological, chemical and nuclear weapons components. Why not? Kim Jong makes some "cashito" for the "revolution", whilst sticking it to the "American Imperialists" at the same time. In North Korea, Kim Jong, well, he is God, so to speak. The current conflict we face with North Korea has actually been ongoing conflict since 1950. It is the old fashioned conflict between Western Style Democracy and Communism. Many American's may not realize this, being either too young to know, or simply too self-absorbed to care. Now the jihadist, they are totally different. They have a cultural chip on their shoulder that dates back centuries. The coals of conflict lay dormant until the Al-qaeda and similar Muslim radicals have come along and whipped the flames of biggotry and intolerance anew again. See? the ideaologies are worlds apart... right.

One difference between these threats to America's way of life is the degree to which these ideologies are influencing the world itself. North Korea, and China are the dying gasp of communism- and, at least we can dialog with the Chinese.
So the threat posed by North Korea is real and its great, but North Korea is already crumbling from within. Unfortunately the conflict with Muslim extremists is just getting revved up and coming into a swell of anti-Western/Judeau sentiment that may linger much longer on the global scene.

Today, let's focus on North Korea. Kim Jong's hatred of the United States is very real. He also buys into the whole Communist thing. It obviously doesn't seem to be working. The nation is in internal chaos. Some here in the west believe that given time, 10 to 15 years or so, North Korea will implode on itself. Kim Jong talks of a glorious Korean unification. He blames the Korean DMZ on the US, of course. Always, in Kim Jong's rhetoric America is the evil imperialist. Kim Jong talks to his nation's people about a great Korean reunification. Make no mistake though, when Kim Jong talks reunification he absolutely means, reunification on his terms. The result would be disastrous. We too would like to see a unified Korea, a democratic Korea, though.

A North Korea armed with intercontinental ballistic missile's, which could deliver nuclear, chemical, or biological warheads is not a best case scenerio. Evidently, Kim Jong is already attempting capatilize on this threat. Just imagine what a pain in the a** the "dear leader" would become if he actually gains control of such resources. In plain speak, the man would be "insufferable." He would also then have some very real leverage on the global community. Think of the constant intimidation from a nuclear North Korea. Moreover, Kim Jong might actually use such weapons. Who can say? The Japanese probably would not be suprised if he were to.

A nuclear North Korea is simply an unacceptable conclusion. We should remember this date, June 25, 1950. That's the day North Korea invaded and attempted to conquer the democratic South Korea. Now, fifty-six years later, Kim Jong rattles the sabre. The timing here is no coincidence. With the launch of the new Taepo-Dong 2 missle test being an imminent reality, maybe our military should blow the thing up before it ever leaves the ground. While they're at it they could take out a good portion of his overall nuclear capabilities with an air sortie or two. I don't believe Kim Jong would be able to do very much about it if we did. Remember, we want Kim Jong and his sons no longer to be holding North Korea in bondage. Instead of dealing diplomatically with Kim Jong let's do everything we can to destroy his regime. Consider this, when Germany reunified it wasn't under a Communist dictatorship. China and South Korea are developing a closer relation. Imagine if North Korea fell and the South Koreans fill the leadership vacum. Immediately North Korea could start on a much needed road to humanitarian recovery. Would China be happy? Probably not- but, they could make a new alligence with a democratic, united Korea based on trade, and mutual interest. If we did some strategic strikes aimed at limiting North Korea's military capacity would it lead to a war with China? I don't think so.

Kim Jong Il loves to talk tough and thump his chest. Maybe its a good time for limited strikes. A Kim Jong Il with a less military reach is a weaker Kim Jong Il. Perhaps then offers of aid and assistance for his country might be a bit more appreciated. Kim Jong would do well to think back at how quickly the tide turned for
Sadaam Hussein. However you feel about what's now going on in Iraq, one thing is certain, Sadaam Hussein is no longer in power. One thing Kim Jong Il likes is his power and control, it might be good for us to give him a reminder about how easily power can be plucked away. The US needs to stand firm on North Korea.

Related Links

Kim Jong "License to Il"
US Tests Missile Defense Amid North Korea Tension
1998 Strategic Assessment: Engaging Power for Peace
Country profile: North Korea
OMF Prayer Mission: North Korea

Zarqawi- Color Him Gone

2006-06-08T11:36:00.000-05:00

A Zarqawi Profile

Glad to see the news today that Al Zarqawi has been put out of commission. What a bright day. It may be a signal that the Iraqi people are tired of playing terrorist host. Can we expect a more stable Iraq? Does this bring us closer to a self-sustaining free Iraq? Let's hope and pray. Or we could ask Michael Moore-

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Well, in spite of my own personal joy that Zarqawi is now out of play. Our nation's Cindy Sheehans will use this opportunity to once again speak out against the War in Iraq. In fact it's already in play.

See? Missing dentures? Sure, you know who to blame. Seriously though, there are already interviews with Nicholas Berg's father, Michael. Nicholas Berg was a contractor working in Iraq who was believed to have been beheaded by Al Zarqawi. Michael Berg is a pacifist, now running for a Delaware U.S. House Seat, says the problem is the al-Qaida may now resent the United States, and maybe start to feel they have nothing to loose. Say What? Imagine, the death of Al Zarqawi putting America on al-Qaaida's bad side. Who would of thought?

Anyway, congratulations to the American troops. One less very, very bad man on this spinning blue planet to worry about, say I. Way to go troops...

To check out more of what Michael Berg is thinking, visit...

Berg: No good in al-Zarqawi's death

Jingoes Rush In

2006-02-12T13:39:00.000-05:00

Recently, I was reading something about the middle east, so much is going on there now, in addition to Iraq we have Hamas and Iran to deal with. Well, I came across the term "jingoe." I admit I didn't know the term. So I did what any curious red blooded American would do in similar circumstances, I "googled" it. Apparently the term has enjoyed quite a bit of morphed meanings- now it refers to those hungry for war (hawks, war mongers, etc). As I surfed through the more than 380,000 google results, I came across the Jingoes Rush In site. This is the site I would most like to focus on in this post. Why? Because I so dislike intellectual dishonesty and Jingoes Rush In could be the "poster child" for the term. I want to share with you my thoughts and impressions of this particular site.

I find this site to be an excellent case study of the liberal style of presenting an issue, that being an emotive presentation as opposed to a more rigorous and ultimately more honest intellectual examination of an issue. Now, I know I just made reference to the "liberals" here. Bear in mind, I am not out to bash liberals, they do a fine job of undermining their own image without my having to attempt to tarnish it further here. I don't like to generalize either. For the record, not all liberals are thoughtless and emotive reactionaries, okay? So there, let's continue.

First, although the CIA World Fact Book is listed as a source for the statistical information presented, which seems to legitimize the site, notice no one or no particular institution actually takes ownership of the site, not a good sign there. We shall simply address the site's liberal stance and not worry about which particular liberal(s) out there actually generated it and posted it, okay? Notice that the format of the site presents statistical information such as the land mass of particular countries and which country has more televisions juxtaposed with photographs that depict war scenes. This tactic of presenting irrelevant statistical and visual information together is effective because it stirs emotion. The liberals are emotive and thus so are their arguments. It takes nothing to let emotions sway individuals. The real effort is in harnessing logical, accurate, and honest intellect. You don't see any attempt at all to a well reasoned point of view on the Jingoes Rush In site, do you?. Liberals think, why bother with the intellect? They figure the American public is so easily bamboozled... Well, unfortunately many Americans are. Case in point is the site referenced above. Photographs of war are always troubling. After all, war is not pretty, it isn't nice, and it certainly is not the first option for the vast majority of Americans. Just because war is ugly doesn't mean we should simply abstain. We're adults, our intellect tells us that principles such as self-preservation and freedom are worth fighting for. Supporting a war that needs to be fought and won shouldn't make one a "jingoe" by default. See? And so what if America has more televisions than Vietnam or Iraq? This is an intellectually dishonest ploy. Finally, distribution of wealth and consumption (obviously taken totally out of context) are valid concerns. By jumbling the issues of war, patriotism, global conflict, wealth and consumption together in such an irresponsible way, each of these issues is robbed of their true importance. The bottom line? Significant and serious issues are utilized by the liberal agenda for the trivial purpose of bashing conservatives. Once again, conservative Americans are smeared as boorish, self-absorbed, insensitive, war mongering, pigs. Wow. The liberal approach is to paint anyone who dares to disagree with their way of thinking as intolerant. I ask you, who is really the intolerant bunch here?

Now, I am not one to advocate self-interested, greed driven, American imperialism; however, if your going to debate any kind of policy issues then be honest with your point of view. Disingenuous arguments do more harm than good. Hey, Fight the Power!

River of Time

2005-12-29T09:05:00.000-05:00

Okay, I have been sooo way lax pertaining to staying current with this InterIceAge4 site. That's what new year's resolutions are for. Right? I am resolving, here and now, to keep this site current, and thriving. My previous posts have centered around current events, or politics, and the like. I get tired of these kind of subjects oftentimes. News outlets, and other bloggers, all crank out news and commentary on like a 24/7 sausage machine. How can VeryTerry keep up with all that? Besides, many do a much better job than I ever could. So InterIceAge4 will continue. It is only the unwinding course the site will take that is not entirely certain. Then again, that is like life, yes? Here I sit typing on this sunny, warm (here where I am, anyway) morning. The sun is rising, bright mellow streaks filtering through partially open blinds. How lovely is that? Outside, after a night of intense rain and thunderstorm, the sky is as clean and clear blue as any sky ever has been. It is winter. It is the end of a year transisioning into a new year. I listen to "I am Robot and Proud." Beautiful, melodic, musical compositions keep me company as I type. How nice is all this?
In these circumstances, how can I think about the news?
As we move ever closer to 2006, VeryTerry resolves to continue InterIceAge4. Maybe I post about a topical issue I feel to be important, or maybe I simply lay out my thoughts, as I am doing now.

Whatever the course, I pledge to keep you satisified, and to keep you wanting to revisit this site.
Let us all have a wonderful new year. I know I am seriously making resolutions for 2006. I am making so many, in fact, I am going to have to come up with some sort of visual organizational system in order to stay on top of the larger picture. I mean, I wouldn't want redundant resolutions, so, I'm classifying all of 'em.
In closing, allow me to share one or two interesting sites on resolutions I have found interesting. Hey, got privacy, check out
Top Ten Consumer Privacy Resolutions. Of course, we should check out if Bill O'Reilly has made any resolutions yet. Yes, as amazing as it may seem, even your cat has made some resolutions this year.

Finally, feel free to visit goalsguyfor a bit of new year's history, the 10 most common resolutions, and you can brush up on the lyrics to Auld Lang Synewith the goalsguy too.

Profiling Goes High Tech

2005-09-02T17:21:00.000-05:00

High Tech Surveillance is in the R&D Pipeline.

It has been right at a month gone by since I posted on Racial Profiling. At that time the issue was topical. In the heat of the moment it even actually seemed important. If you recall, this was following the aftermath of the London bus and tube bomings. Then, my initial idea was to do the article on terrorist profiling. After studying up on the subject, I changed my idea and decided to first post about an already existing profiling issue here in the United States. I posted about the profiling phenomina referred to as DWB.

I had intended to follow up, making this post about the controvery regarding terrorist profiling. The idea was to examine wrether stopping people randomly on New York subway platforms, for bag searches was actually an effective practice or if it was only a manifestation of political correctness. I suspect the later by the way.

What a difference a month makes. Gasoline prices have skyrocketed. Hurricane Katrina plows into the Gulf states. Our porous and chaotic boarders are still so. Suddenly, profiling for terrorists on NYC subway platforms seems like a non-issue.

In addition, VeryTerry has been ultra busy moving through the obsticle course that is his own life these past four weeks. When I started intericeage4, I had the idea of giving people my own thoughts about the most current issues. Most times, I don't see my way of thinking very well reflected in mainstream media sources. I realize now that there is only so much of me and only so much I can get around to doing. Over the coming weeks I am going to seriously ponder the direction I want this post to take. Bear with me.

On the issue of terrorist profiling, I can tell you there are many worthy sites out there already published and ready for review. Why should VeryTerry reinvent the wheel? Essentially what I discovered and now believe about the issue is that in the next few years, the screening technology in airports, terminals, ports, city streets, and for commuications and mailing will be so technologically sophisticated, the idea of profiling muslems, blacks, whites or any ethnic group will become totally not necessary. So terrorist profiling will be reality. It will simply become so sublime we won't even realize it is taking place. Later.

This should get you moving it you really wan't to pursue the issue--

How Technology Will Defeat Terrorism

What is Racial Profiling?

2005-08-03T10:45:00.000-05:00

What is racial profiling? According to the group Ethnic Majority, this question is answered not with definition but with example. The example cited is a scenerio referred to as "dwb", or driving while black. Here the allegation is that they (police officers) target African-Americans for traffic stops. The reason? The police assume that African-Americans are more likely to be involved in criminal activity.

The "dwb" scenerio is obviously not best practice material. How does such a thing happen? One theroy is that officers pick up this practice as a result of "informal" on-the-job training. Racial Profiling is not "formally" taught at the Police Academies, rather the idea that blacks are more criminal is practiced and taught in a more covert or informal manner. Now assuming that this is possible, or is actually occuring, is easy. Proving or disproving the "dwb" practice becomes another matter altogether. Statistics have become critical in this role.

Again, it must be stressed that VeryTerry is not a Social Scientist. Nor is VeryTerry a skilled statistitian. Okay? I'm just a guy who sometimes gets curious about stuff. Looking into this, I very quickly got the idea that most police departments do have informational gathering procedures in place relative to race and sex and police contact. To get an idea about these policies you can explore the website of the Police Executive Research Forum.
If you start to read the literature on what the police themselves refer to as Racially Biased Policing, it quickly becomes clear the issue is complex. Simply qualifying how statistics are gathered becomes complex.
So, I'm not here to focus on all that. I just wanted the reader to be aware that I'm taking a hotly debated and complicated issue and I am simplifying it drastically.
I will list some statistics I got from the U.S. Department of Justice. Their statistics reveal that in 1999:

21% of U.S. residents had a contact with the police.
52% of these contacts involved traffic stops.
Under 1% of these stops involved police having to use force.
10% of White drivers were stopped.
12% of Black drivers were stopped.
9% of Hispanic drivers were stopped.
Interestingly, 84% of all drivers stopped considered the stop legitimate.

It seems rather fair to me. However this next set of U.S. DOJ stats gives me pause for thought:

Of the 19.3 million drivers stoppen in 1999, some 6.6% were subject to some kind of physical search.
During the traffic stop, police were more likely to conduct a search on a male (9.4%) rather than a female (2.3%), and more likely on a black (11.3%) or Hispanic (11.0%)than a white (5.4%).

According to these DOJ stats, it seems the "dwb" phenomina may have some credibility to it. The good news is that police departments are aware of the problem and are taking steps to avoid this prejudical procedure.

The get real fact however is that we all know a good police officer is going to use instict. The old "if it walks like a duck and it quacks like a duck" line of reasoning. When VeryTerry is channel surfing on the ol' television and he sees the gansta rappas doing their "gansta" thing in their "gansta" videos, it hardly seems surprising that police officers might have a tendency to look long and hard at folk who are emulating this lifestyle out on th' street. It probably doesn't matter to the police if you're black, white, or Hispanic.

Now I wouldn't want any officer pulling me or anyone else over simply because we happened to be in the "wrong" neighborhood, or because we're out at the "wrong" hour of the night. Officers must utilize sound probable cause. Nor would I want officers out "manufactoring" reasons for a traffic stop. Officers must be held accountable for the stops they make. However, if the officer has legitimate probable cause, he should make the stop, irregardless of the subject's race or sex. If stopped, it is up to citizens to be informed about their rights. What are your rights? Check out FlexYourRights.org.

To conclude, I think none of us wants to see anyone stopped without legitimate probable cause. We Americans are, I believe, largely in agreement that equal rights are desirable. Each one of us should expect to be treated fairly under the law. No American citizen should be subject to police abuse of power. America is an open country where citizens and interest groups can keep an eye on authority to insure freedom from abuse.

In this post, What is Racial Profiling? I want to get at the traditional idea about Racial Profiling. That is, What is Racial Profiling in the pre 911 America. This post will become a base for my next.
In my next post I will be exploring the idea of racially profiling terrorism suspects. Is profiling terrorism suspects simply another case of "dwb", or is it more important and more justifiable? Let me know what you think.

What kind of American English do you speak?

2005-07-26T19:41:00.000-05:00

I took this quick questionnaire and was amazed. It seems quiet accurate. Take it for yourself. Send a comment and let us know how you did.

Your Linguistic Profile:

40% Dixie

40% General American English

15% Yankee

5% Upper Midwestern

0% Midwestern

What Kind of American English Do You Speak?

F***ing USA? America, wake up!

2005-07-20T15:33:00.000-05:00

***Be Advised, if you click on the link provided you will be exposed to the F*** word!!!***
The Link to robpongi.com provided here is Not for Children.

War On Terror

Oh my, last night whilst doin' a bit of channel surfing on the television I came across a program on the History Channel that caught my attention. The program, which is in rotation on the History Channel line up just now, is called "History Now: Iraq War: Battling the Insurgents". Scheduled for viewing again on Thursday, July 28, at 11:00 pm, eastern time.

I admit, I only caught a bit of the show. From what I viewed, the show reconstructed real battle scenerio's that took place during the Battle for Fullujah. Apparently, the American troops moved across the city, street by street, and block by block, engaging insurgents. The fighting was urban. The fighting was intense. This was eye-opening stuff. I had not a clue such had happened. The media coverage of Iraq in the US is so all pervasive it blurs for me. I realize I'm not always paying attention.

The Ukuleleman

Well, I know lots of people who feel the war in Iraq is totally unjustified, and that we shouldn't even be there. Bush as warmonger, and all that. Hey, let's not forget that life in Iraq was not at all days of wine and roses before we ousted Mr. Sadaam. My feeling is that the military action is justified in that Iraq has served as a terrorist "lightning rod". We are keeping the fighting on foriegn soil. Good. I personally don't want to see more attacks on American soil. Remember 911?
Further, as Iraq moves toward something more like a democracy and less like a dictatorship, we are creating a positive alternative to tyranny and extremeism in the middle East region. Good.
Those who resort to terror tactics in order to derail this progress obviously do not want this to occur. It would mess up their own plan for tyrannical power in the region and elsewhere, right?

Now this morning, I got online and I googled the term "anti American" just to see what I would find out there in cyberland. Not suprisingly, I found hundreds of thousands of sites. What was a bit suprising was just how vitriolic and irrational most of these actually were.
Case in point, on one of the first web sites I checked out I found this little video gem titled "F***ing USA".

robpongi.com/f***ing USA

This video was apparently produced in North Korea. It was later picked up and aired on a Japanese television station. Again, Be prepared for repeated usage of the "f" word here. This ain't for kids, folks. As an added bonus, you can check out another video here titled "Private English Lesson". You can watch a hip, attractive Japanese girl as she thoughtlessly spouts out the great "anti-Bush" sentiment. How clever and cute is this?

Let's get it straight here. There are terrorist organiztions and entire nations who are willing to utilize propaganda, terror, chemical, biological, nuclear weapons, and even outright war in order to destroy America. So all you hip, peace-loving American individuals out there living in your wonderful little "1960's happy dream" mentality be aware that the freedom of dissent you so prouldly enjoy depends on the very survival of our nation. Period. If we loose this nation, say good-bye to your constitutional rights, all of 'em. If the terrorist's, god forbid, were to prevail plan on saying good-bye to your basic human rights as well, and hello to "allah". You must realize that those who would love to see the demise of America love you. You make their job so, so much easier.

Let's get real. VeryTery doesn't believe that Mr. G.W. Bush "hung the moon". There is much I would take our president to task on. Why are you not securing our porous borders? What about security surrounding our ports? and other vital systems such as mass transit, or computer and energy grids? Why don't you rethink American educational practices and policies? Believe me, I could go on. Nor is VeryTerry a warmonger.

The Christian Flag

I do believe that the terrorists' brought this war to us. We would be less than sane as a nation if we fail to aggressively utilize both defensive and (yes, I'm going to say it) offensive military and national security options. Ultimately, I realize that as American's we do need to improve the way many in the world see us in such negative terms. They see America as too powerful, too rich, too selfish, too greedy, too insensitive, and too immoral. Hey, let's be honest. In many ways we probably are. Yet, America is also caring and charitable. How easily the rest of the world seems to ignore America's many, many positive attributes. As American's we need to reexamine and reassert our most basic moral and ethical principles. As we alreay know, winning a war is much easier than winning people's hearts and minds. We must go about finding ways to improve the way the rest of the world perceives us, yet we must not forget that you're never going to be able to sit around a campfire, sharing smores with terrorists' and for one second believe you are going to be able to reason with them.

Finally, all of you who also proudly flaunt your disbelief in God, you might want to go find a Christian and say thank-you. VeryTerry personally believes that the main thing holding this poor, harsh world together is simple prayer. Why is it we Americans bend over backwards to demonstrate sensitivity to every other philosophy and religion on earth, and yet we find bashing Christianity good, healthy, and amusing sport?

Intro to Anthro: Trading Spouses

2005-06-22T15:31:00.000-05:00

Ask VeryTerry, "what's doin'?", on any given Tuesday evening and the answer your likely to receive is, "I got my anthropology class tonight man". So, you're wondering, where in the world does the very cool, VeryTerry go to school? Got one for ya, he goes to Television University on Tuesday evenings. That's right.
Seriously, most of you who know me realize my love/hate relationship with the television (and mass media in general). On one hand, I see the great potential of television, and I enjoy many programs. On the other hand, I can see the pointlessness, the shallow characterizations, the biased assumptions, and the blatant efforts of tv insiders to hoist alternative lifestyles and morals on the vast American mainstream. What's a poor boy to do?
Well, I decided if, and when, I do kick back to watch a little on th tube, I can at least try to get some meaning out of it for myself. Gee VeryTerry, what can a body learn from watchin' tv?
Good Question. On Tuesday night (8/7c) , I have the opportunity to learn all about humanity itself. A very academic ambition, to be sure. I simply tune in to Fox's exciting program, Trading Spouses.

Trading Spouses is reality television at it's finest. In other words, a reality only presented to the viewer after it's been edited, spliced, taken out of context, and ultimately reformatted for maximum effect and impact. Thus, a kind of hybrid reality filled with the opiate nectar of drama, comedy, conflict, suspense, and tidy resolution. That's okay for me. It is still reality, even though it's been tweaked a bit. I like to think of it as a kind of nitro burning funny car sort of reality tv.
That's all good VeryTerry, again though, what can we learn from watching such a show on tv?
First, viewing Trading Spouses is like viewing a surgical dissection. It serves up to the viewer human nature with all of it's myriad possibilities. Now according to my constant companion, Webster's, anthropology is the scientific study of the origin and the physical, social, and cultural development and behavior of humans. Therefore, I give you Trading Spouses, anthropological study at it's finest, shining hour.
In the episode I watched last night (June 21) we met the Gates family and the Loupe family. This being television, you can anticipate what's going to unfold when these two families trade spouses. Oh yes indeed, it unfolds into pure, unadulterated culture shock. Why? Let's look closer at our two families to get to the answer. You see, the Gates family is from southern California. They are totally into a progressive kind of lifestyle appropriate for such a family.
We meet Momma Gates (aka Barbra), the hubby (I never got his name, doesn't matter anyway), and the kids (Jack and Lucy). In Barbra Gates we have the archetypal femminist. She is the matriarchic ruler of the Gates' roost. It get's even better. Barbra, we quickly learn, is an animal rights diva and a genuine vegan.

As the program moves along, it's clear she's also preachy, whiny, forceful, and stubborn. The woman also appears to have some anger management issues. I'd love to introduce her to a good psytherapist.
Barbra trades spouses (and families actually) with Diana Loupe. The Loupe's live in the bayou country of Louisiana. Diana has a fine husband named Diego. He's cool. You could see yourself hanging out with Diana and Diego. They are easygoing folk. No pretensions, just salt of the earth people. The Loupe's also have a son. He's a charming, mullet headed fellow named Zamariah (ZZ). Zamariah is a typical kind of boy. He sometimes finds his way into difficulties. In spite of this, he's a good guy who seems to be genuinely happy growing up in a place full of natural beauty and wonder like Louisiana's bayou country.
Now, over the course of the hour long show, we have the priveledge of watching what happens when these two worlds collide. I don't intend to bore you with a detailed summarization of Tuesday's episode. I will give you some details so you can get an idea of how it is that one is able to bring anthropology to bear on the show.
For instance, at one point, Barbra, who is now solidly ensconced at the Loupe's home, decides to throw a party for the Loupe family and friends. Barbra (the vegan) shows no tact, nor mercy, as she serves up the soy burgers and such at this little get together. Viewing the reactions of her guests, which consisted in varying degress of astonishment, disgust, and quiet disdain, was thrillingly priceless.
After this horrific dining experience, Barbra (the animal rights diva) further mangles the party, and tortures her guests, by insisting that all move to the living room to watch a video. Is it the new StarWars movie? mabye Batman Begins? No. It's a video about animal rights, of all things. It seems Barbra totally doesn't get it. These are Louisiana folk. Huntin', fishin', and wrestlin' around with the 'gators is par for the course. I can't describe my delight as I watched guests, husbands, grandmothers, and children take flight for the front door, abandoning Barbra and her pretensious, moralizing self. All alone, Barbra watches the video to conclusion. We can hear the narrator telling us that chickens are our noble friends as Barbra breaks down in tears at the beauty of such a notion.

And so goes the show. You're getting the idea, I'm sure.
In closing, we come back to the question of anthropological study. I will confess, my television viewing/study is not exactly scientific. I beg your forgivness on this point. In any case, the meanings pertaining to culture and human development are invaluable. You see, people in America who lean to the left think that the conservative platform is moralistic, sermonizing, and forceful. Now, after viewing this episode of Trading Spouses, we realize the the right doesn't have an exclusive possession of such negative qualities. Anyone can be insensitive at times.
Next, let's consider war. No, not the War on Terror. Let's look at the other war we American's seem to be waging. That's it, the Cultural War. Last night's episode was a very special glimpse into some aspects of the media hyped war. In the Loupe family we can see the American mainstream. A good 'ol group that puts great stock in heritage and tradition. In the Gates family we see an emerging kind of America. A more forward looking America, perhaps. Barbra's attitude and behavior typify these characteristics well. Barbra looks for new and better ways of living life. She's adopted Veganism. She advocates causes, her passion being animal rights. In the way she relates to other's we can see her passion, and we see the frustration, impatience, and potential for quick anger that comes with the passion. So, in the Loupe and Gates family we really have a micro reflection of Right and Left America. True, in last night's show the Loupe's perhaps proved themselves to somewhat more gracious and long suffering; yet, both families reflected some interesting and positive qualities.
For me here's the learning. Whicever side of the fence you may be on (we all know how rediculous and unprofitable it is to sit on the middle of a fence), we all need to be aware of exactly what kind of fence we're standing by. For example, a privacy fences is a fine fence, although it makes it nigh impossible for people to gather around. The people on one side of such a fence have no idea what the people on the other side are really like. They can ony guess. Not a very friendly scene, right?
A chain link fence is another kind of fence. You can see through it, and you can see around it. Most importantly, it's a fence where people can come together, sharing a coke or a beer. They can visit, and chat. They can be friendly as they really get to know one another, and learn to appreciate and complement differences. This kind of fence is my hope for America. I think the nation would be stronger if we stopped shouting across a privacy fence, and we all gathered around the chain link fence. If we all gathered at the fence and spent time in one another's company, letting time unfold as we sip our beers, it might go a long way toward bringing an end to America's Culture War. It's easier to climb a chain link fence, too.
Join me, VeryTerry, for class. Watch more television, okay?

Everybody Wants Some, I Want Some, Too

2005-06-05T20:40:00.000-05:00

The famous Astronomer, Fred Hoyle, is quoted as saying, "The current scenario of the orgin of life is about as likely as the assemblage of a 747 by a tornado whirling through a junkyard". I assume, he is referring to the popular notion that as a result of random chance, and a Big Bang, well, Here We Be.
Big Bang, or whateva, Hoyle elaquantly illustrates how beautifully, and infinitely, well designed the Universe really is. Well mabye VeryTerry, you ask, It was UFO's? Right. Sometimes we search so hard when the answer is right in front of us.

When the Apostle Paul wrote to the Colossian church he stated, "For it was in him that all things were created, in heaven and in earth, things seen and things unseen, wrether thrones, dominions, rulers or authorities; all things were created and exist through Him and in and for Him"(Colossians 1:16). You see, God made this whole joint. All moving according to his greater design. Freewill, of course we have freewill. Now, for me, believing God reigns supreme makes more sense than any other option floating around out there. To believe is really no more, nieve or rediculous, than not believing. In other words, to practice atheism requires exactly as much faith as practicing Christianity. I know much about the development of atheistic philosophy. How many atheists, agnostics, New Agers, etc., know anything about Chirstianity? I have studied their beliefs, and you won't see me crying and whining. Many, many, non-Christians, who know nothing about it will not hesitate to put a believing Christian down. Well, Stick and stones...
I'm all for debate, not reactive emotionalism.

The academician, Ravi Zacharias, astutely elaborates on what he calls,"Angusih in Affluence".Very simply, The developed world, with all it's scientific and technological marvels, doesn't fill the need people have for meaning. He notes that the empty angst of our time is accurately reflected in much of today's Popular music. This isn't a value judgement. The point is, the longing so many of us share in searching for a meaning to our lives.

Atheism, is really a hopeless cause. If all life is random, and the only thing awaiting us is the grave, life becomes pointless. Satanism? Good luck. Or mabye you prefer relative ethics. Right, what a mess the world is in. True, not all religion is good religion. Sincerity even, is no guarenteer of truth. So, approach the possibility of Christianity as you would any subject. Study, Examine, Explore...
You may find out some interesting, useful, and healing realities. Don't generalize that Christianity is bad because Religion is bad. That's the lazy way around the subject. Seek and you will find. I have a great respect for Taoism and many Eastern lines of thought. I can appreciate Taoism, and learn from it. I can appreciate Science and Technology, and learn from it. Ultimately though, I find my greatest hope for meaning filled in God's Grace. Good luck on your Quest.

The 'Nature' of Responsibility

2005-05-30T11:36:00.000-05:00

South Carolina Evening. Watercolor by VeryTerry.
I live in an area of South Carolina generally referred to as "the lowcountry". If you know anything about the state's geography it's easy to understand why this portion of South Carolina is so named. We're right along the coast, at sea level. Here in the Charleston area hard rain means flash flooding. We're not underwater, like New Orleans, but you won't find any mountains here like you will in the Western portion of the state. The lowcountry is flat and swampy.
The lowcountry of South Carolina is full of history, natural beauty, and nowdays, lots of growth.I don't often deal in statistics so I won't be tossing any at you now. However, like many areas, the growth is quite noteworthy. There has been alot of conflict very recently about development in the area where I reside, that's the Charleston, Berkeley, and Dorchester counties area. New homes, and indeed, entire huge subdivisions can't be built quickly enough. The problem is everyone wants growth. Growth signals new jobs, a stronger tax base, and better economic realities for the area. On the other hand, no one seems to want these new developments in their area. Suburban sprawl creates a loss of scenic beauty, a loss of historic sites, and yet even more traffic. It's a problematic issue to be sure. If you live in a fast growing part of the country yourself you may find your communities facing similar issues. One problem that is particular to this lowcountry area is that we can't grow to the east. Unless we create artifical islands out into the Atlantic Ocean, growth to our east is not possible. Further compounding the development problem is that we have no real vision how how our area should grow. There is no real legislation defining what we in the area would consider desirable.
Essentially how the area will grow is up to a handful of powerful real estate speculators and developers. These good business folk are buying up land. The bottom line appears to be maximum development for maximum profit. Now, I don't want to get sued here. This is only my general understanding of the issues, based on what I have seen and heard. I will further add there are many excellent planned communities in the area that strike a very nice balance between development and the rich heritage of natural beauty and history. Hey, I like to think I live in such an area. Through the area we have parks, bike paths, walking trails, and the area roads generally handle the traffic well. The area is harmonious. The question is how much new growth is enough? After all, it's a free country. Some argue land owners sould be able to do whatever they want with their property. Of course, what happens when the plans for developing a particular piece of property impact the larger area? The conflict of development in this area so continues. Little by little, the developers seem to be winning.
Do we really need another BP station? Another Wendy's? Do we really need yet another strip mall?
I complain about all this, yet I am eternally grateful for all the convenience these businesses provide. My purpose here is simply to raise the question. How much development in an area is enough? Or perhaps even more importantly, Can we fairly create a vision of growth for the area that can actually stand legislative and judical rigor? Again, my intention is to provide an arena of though. The local news outlets, most often pitch these issues in a kind of "us" against "them" context. Who can be suprised? They are out to sell news and conflict is more intresting, I suppose, than compromise.
I came upon a site for an interesting organization just recently.The organization is called the "Center for Humans and Nature". The organization defines it's orientation as non-profit and non-partisan. There concern is responsible development and stewardship. If development is an issue that concerns you, check out the website. I really know nothing more about the group than that myself. After you have looked at their site, give me some feedback as to what you think. If you know of similar organizations, or have expertise on this issue then please comment. I like the idea of responsible, planned growth that serves the best needs of all in the community. Click on the article title to go to the "Center for Humans and Nature" website, or follow this link Center for Humans and Nature.

Non-Conforming Conformists

2005-05-25T06:12:00.000-05:00

Oh the bitter, rediculous, yet strangly sweet irony of it all. The Non-Conforming Conformist. I've been visiting alot of websites lately. Not big sites like e-bay.
The little sites. Everyone has a site on the web these days. Even I have one. Your looking at it. Now I have seen some really fantastic personal web pages. I love it. The free space is there. People should take advantage. I am.
One thing that really freaks me out when I visit all these blogs and personal web pages is seeing that so, so, I mean sooooo many individuals describe themselves as "unique".Every one wants to feel as though they are special. To some degree, all human beings are unique. Each of us has been moulded and stamped by our life experiences. So, given this obvious realization, why do 4 out of 5 people in cyberspace have to go out of their way, with excruciating effort to convince everyone that they are different? And since when did proudly proclaiming, "I don't conform to Society" become such a badge of honor? Let's get real.
You don't conform to society? Really? Well then, I figure you must be Amish then, or mabye Ted Kaczynsky (aka the Unibomber). Now, there are some folk who Don't Conform to Society. You live in a tree? You graze for your substanance? You wear a loincloth and spend your days living in the deep tropical jungles? What do you mean you don't Conform to Society? What does that mean?
You're in college, or you went to school. You speak the language. You're on the computer. You get your food from the grocer. You buy your clothes at the store. You go to all the local Raves, and hang out at the local clubs. Get Real. Admit It. You Conform To Society. What's the big deal? It's not so dirty.
Oh you miss the point. I am so non-conformist.You just don't get it, you poor, stupid bumpkin. I am a wiccan.
I'm into NeoPaganism. I am niether a "blue" or "red" state political creature. I'm vegan. I hate the war machine. I listen to obscure bands. I wear black. I'm goth.
I am sooo into body-modification. Ecstasy is my drug of choice. I am counter-culture man. I am open. I am tolerant... And on and on. Well, that may be. Nonetheless, you are so not non-conformist. The preceeding diatribe describes just about everyone these days. Logically, if so many folk are into these very things then you are Conforming. So suck it up, get used to it. You are a conformist. There, I popped your warm and fuzzy bubble.
Ever consider what you may really be saying is, "Hey, look at me, I am so totally self-absorbed."Look, I don't want to get down on anybody. Thank God, It's a free country. Still, for now at least. Oh man, you said God. That's right, it's not a dirty word. The non-conformist types, who insist on making a point of letting all know how open they are, Are they really so open? You can handle gay-lesbian, illegial immagrints, and stop war. Can you handle the fact that there are millions of people in this country who don't live in your world. They have jobs. They are proud to conform. They might even be Christians. Oh no, he said Christian. Attack! You see, you want everyone to accept you. Can you except the rest of us?
Think about it...

Anutkin Squirelwalker goes to the Dark Side

2005-05-22T13:33:00.000-05:00

I haven't seen the offically sactioned George Lucas production yet. But I did stumble on Sugarbush Squirel. You have to admit, Sugarbush looks great in the Vader outfit. The realistic special effects are incredible... note the lightsaber in Sugarbush's tiny paw, and the faithful droid R2D2. We may or may not ever get around to the cinema, but we'll always have Sugarbush. Click on the title link and see more of Sugarbush.

"Jump Around" Corporate America

2005-05-20T08:36:00.000-05:00

As I sit down to work this morning, I fire up some old school "House of Pain". The song, Jump Around of course. I have just signed in to my music server you see. Pirating, and the free-wheeling Napster days are as gone as vinyl records. So like a good corporate citizen, I get my music legally. I pay for it. I don't mind. In fact, it makes me proud. I'm a bit of an artistic type myself. I understand that, yes, even the humble artist needs to put food on the table. I don't mind paying my fair due to even the wealthiest artists. So what if Nelly wants to go buy a new piece of bling. This is America.
The trouble I have is with my music provider.
For twenty-five bucks per quarter, I have unlimited access to their collection of music. It is a vast collection. No problem. You can search by genre, artist, song, etc. They provide endless radio stations, based on genere, or you can create your own. You create playlists, create your own library, and transfer or rip tunes. It's awesome really. In TQM terms, you could say it's completely "win/win". I use the service, the artists get their royality, and the company makes a buck or two.
It's a beautiful relationship I have with my music server.Until things went wrong. I had a small technical difficulty. I won't go into painful details. We all know working out bugs is part of the price you pay for such marvellous technologies. So, I call the help line. A confident sounding recorded voice assures me, my needs are the company's greatest concern. My call will be answered within TWO minutes. Of course, two hours later, a human voice, finally. Just one more problem, It seems my music server, which I figured was an American company, they are affiliated with a major cable/communications corporation, is outsourcing it's help service to India. Well, I don't know that much about India. I do know that if your customer service representatives are going to be assisting English speaking customers, the reps should speak English. At least well enough so they can understand you and you can understand them. Bottom line, after we wrangle around a bit on the phone in conversation it appears she (the Indian customer service rep) is on top of my technical problems and will waste no time setting things straight.
I hang up. I should feel, happy, releived. My service will be flawlessly restored.
Won't it? Suddenly doubt jumps in front of me and strikes me visciously across the head. I didn't really understand what she was saying. I think. Did she then, understand me? Mabye all the reps are trained to artfully give poor unsuspecting customers a false sense of assurance an then hang up on them? Onto the next call. Time is money. The company was efficent. Within twenty-four hours. My service was worse then ever. Further, my account had been totally changed around.
Time to jump back into the pool. Like the grandest general plotting stratedgy, I change tact. I go the e-mail route. One, two, e-mail correspondence. My service improves. My subscription, rightfully restored. Wherever those e-mails wound up, it seems the written English word is rather more exacting. Now, the final push. I go for the end-zone. Smashing through the defensive line. A third e-mail. My opus, I threaten to take my dollars elsewhere, and I will get everyone I know who uses their service to do the same. It's a bit of bluff on my part, but they are snookered. At long last, the Empire is saved. My service is fully back in operation, fully, completely, and the way it always should have been.
So, full circle now. I have signed into my server. House of Pain doing Jump Around, and myself with a new, fantastic realization. I always thought these guys were singing about dancing or such. Now I know the truth. They are warriors. They came to fight. I see myself in this tough stance. I "jumped around" with corporate America. Maybe, I didn't win. It's just nice to know I still have a bit of fight left in me.

Struggling to Juggle Technology

2005-05-18T22:17:00.000-05:00

Let's get this out in the open on my very first blog post. I confess, I know absolutely nothing about computers. Without revealing my exact age, I share with you an anecdote. When I was in school we had no computers in the classroom. The "pc" did not exists yet. Computers did, but they were large and you had to know what to do with a punch card. Here is the thing, I remember our teachers telling to get ready. One day, they prophesied, EVERYONE will be using computers. People will use them at work! We students, in our innocence and ignorance, stared back slack jawed at our sage elders. Well, turns out they were right. Even they could not have imagined how right they were.
I know a young man. He's in undergrad school. He, and his generation, were weaned on computers. This kid is amazing. I have seen him work. First time I met him, we were talking computers, I asked him what brand he had? He looked at me as though he didn't understand the question. He just cobbles the things together from parts he buys on e-bay. Glad he's on my side.
As we welcomed in 2005 way back in January, I honestly didn't even know what a "blog" was. Trouble is, I still don't. I am determined to learn though. Is the younger generation so much smarter than we baby-boomers? I don't know the answer. However, when it comes to computers, the younger kids have shown me that the best way to figure it all out is just to "jump on and start peddling. Here I am, so watch me go. Please don't be too critical. Hopefully, as the near future unfolds, my acquired computer skill will be reflected in a blog that is as professional and as exciting to experience as any.
One thing I've alread learned, the on-line community is filled with folk who are all too happy to help a fellow out. The American spirit of innovation is so alive in cyberWorld. It has amazed me to learn that not only are the younger generation of computer users innovative, they love to share. It's a brave new world and I'm glad to have finally gotten off the starting line.
Thanks to my young friend, Sean (techoboy), and all my new friends in the StumbleUpon community for your continuing support and assistance.