What Can You Do To Help America?

Happy New Year, America! I know it is hard for many of us to feel like anything we do is "really going to matter" with regard to the state of our nation. Well, if you are one of those people...let me tell you one simple (yet empowering) thing you can do, and should do, daily. Pray! Yes, pray for our nation. Not one of those quickies, but rather one of those down on your knees in all humility types. Bible: The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much (James 5:16). So maybe you are not a righteous individual, but you are spiritually inclined. Pray! Maybe you are not as eloquent as you think you should be to get your message across. Just remember...God does not critique your delivery, but He does scrutinize your heart. Sometimes we think God is not listening when really...we are not talking.

Note: We need to do everything within our power to help our country remain free.

May God bless America...and may America deserve it!
Zanne Booker 1-01-10

West Point's Backdrop Couldn't Save Obama's Flop

I'm back...thanks for hanging in there. This blog was intentionally delayed until President Obama got back to General McChrystal's request for additional troops in Afghanistan. Now, with many of America's finest surrounding him...the cadets at West Point...he had an opportunity to do his own surging...as Commander-In-Chief. It was the most eloquently delivered speech of "fence straddling" I have heard in a long time. I am quite sure he has read the book Speak Like Churchhill, Stand Like Lincoln, by James C. Humes, yet he fell embarrassingly short of either leaders' comparison tonight. After waiting approximately seventy days to initially talk to the President (face-to-face) about his need for 45,000 troops, it is hard to fathom that this "strategy" is the outcome of McChrystal's...and America's...additional three months of waiting. How many lobbyists and special interest groups does one have to poll...or appease...to avert a crisis? Mr. President, to stand like Lincoln you need a backbone. I'll say it again...There are dire consequences for just PLAYING WAR. There is only one way to win a war...decisively!

Note: A wise man's words are well received with or without the accompaniment of eloquence.

May God bless America...and may America deserve it!
Zanne Booker 12-01-09

Afghanistan: McChrystal Struggles To Make Sense Of Obama's Communication Break Down

General Stan McChrystal was appointed by President Obama to orchestrate the war in Afghanistan as the new U.S. Commander. This was not only an honor bestowed, but also a testimony to his leadership, extensive military knowledge, and situation analysis. As a graduate from West Point (1976) he has brought a resume worthy of America’s confidence. But who is the President now deferring to in order to sort out the mission statement and requirements in this arena? General McChrystal disclosed to David Martin (CBS) in an interview that he had only talked to the President once in 70 days. Mr. Obama has talked more to his golf caddies! Why, he has even taken time out to address the Olympic committee. Doesn’t he know we have come so far and that there are dire consequences for just PLAYING WAR? Every American soldier should enter combat confident that his leaders are on his/her side. If we allow Al-Qaeda to overrun Afghanistan, then they will confidently set their sights on their next conquest. Now, I know it is easier to let the “other guy" stand up for what is right; but we are the “other guy". We need to realize when we get comfortable, we are most vulnerable. There is only one way to win a war... DECISIVELY!

Note: No one wants to start a war...But someone has to finish it!

May God bless America...and may America deserve it!
Zanne Booker 9-30-09

'Nuclear Option'...It's Not Just For Country Vs. Country...Right, Senator Reid?

Senator Harry Reid (Nevada-D) has yet another ace up his…okay…I’ll say sleeve. It is a handy little option called RECONCILIATION, fondly know as the “Nuclear Option”. No, he isn’t going to blow up a section of the United States, however, the impact (economically) could be just as devastating to Americans. It would allow the Democrats to push through major parts of the health care plan with a majority vote instead of the usual votes needed to avoid a filibuster (60 votes). Apparently he threatened to use it Tuesday. "If we can't work this out to do something within the committee structure, then we'll be forced to do the reconciliation," Reid said. Senator Reid and the President (like so many in the House and Senate) are taking the position…DO SOMETHING, EVEN IF IT’S WRONG! Well, it is just that…wrong. When President Obama took office the American people chose as their number one priority to FIX THE ECONOMY. Choosing health care as the priority is like wanting to paint a house that is on fire. Until we get our economy stabilized, with facts and figures all economists can agree are “reality based”, we need to keep plugging away at the health care plan until we get it right. Concerns emanate from both sides of the aisle. There are fears that some middle-class workers (there are always more than some) including those in risky occupations such as mining and police work being inflicted with the new tax on high-premium insurance plans. I’m wondering about the military, myself. And what about the illegal immigrants? Well, it offers no guarantee that they won’t get assistance from the government…our government…to buy insurance. The list of sticking points has reached well over 500, Harry. We are heading for a “Nuclear Nightmare” if we don’t wake-up and work-out the core problems.

Note: Wisdom dictates a timetable; Foolishness chooses helter-skelter.

May God bless America…and may America deserve it!
Zanne Booker 9-22-09

George Stephanopoulos' Obama Interview...And You!

In a White House interview with Barack Obama, George Stephanopoulos (ABC) engaged the President in a "sticking point" of controversy for millions of Americans. Stephanopoulos: Probably the most definitive promise you made in the campaign is that no one in the middle class would get a tax increase on your watch... Yet this week, Senator Rockefeller and several other Democrats say that this bill by Senator Baucus is a big middle class tax increase. Do you agree and does that mean you can't sign it? Obama did not agree. What is alarming is that he started with the words "I think what they were referring to..." and began to wax eloquently from there. When it comes to something of this magnitude in cost and taxpayer responsibility...everyone should be on the same page and there should be no surmising. If Congress and the President cannot give us book, chapter, and verse on what something means...consistently...then they had better "hold off" while we "hold on" to what we can understand.

Note: Life should be what you make of it...not what the government doles out.

May God bless America...and may America deserve it!
Zanne Booker 9-21-09

"Trigger Option" Or Bait And Switch?

In a perfect world...where honesty reigns supreme...if the Washington congressional leaders (and the President) told us that a "TRIGGER OPTION" would be used only if private insurance companies failed to provide affordable health care...I would almost get onboard with that plan...almost. You may recall that our "transparent" government...ahem...has on more than one occasion said one thing and done another. I for one want a little more than their word...which isn't worth too much these days...that the "TRIGGER", which just so happens to be the name of Roy Rogers' deceased horse, doesn't manifest itself into a horse of a different color...a trojan horse. There are too many escape hatches in the belly of that beast. Couldn't the government come out the back door and squeeze out the competition? Don't forget there is that lovely leverage of legislation. After all, you know about their insatiable appetite for making rules, guidelines, and laws. They could bury the competition in paperwork, lawsuits, and fines while they ride off into the sunset knowing their TRIGGER should have been named SWITCH...as in BAIT AND SWITCH.

Note: When an option is forced upon you...it is no longer an option.

May God bless America...and may America deserve it!
Zanne Booker 9-09-09

I WENT TO A TOWN HALL MEETING...

Last week I went to an official TOWN HALL MEETING. There was clapping for favorable remarks and booing for unfavorable ones. An unremarkable event I'd say...Well, except for one 22-year-old man who was legally blind and had beat all odds and predictions that he would never live more than six weeks, at his birth. Fighting back the tears, he wanted to know if the new proposed health care would have let him, and others like him, die. Oh, there was also the young lady, who would turn 90-years-old in two short days, wanting to know if her health care plan would be done away with under the "New Deal"...It had thus far served her well. Come to think of it...there was a retired military serviceman who had read the entire health care proposal and was alarmed at how drastically it was going to affect servicemen and women...especially retirees. I went to the meeting to hear about health care and I got more than I bargained for when one tear-stained woman expressed an inability to even give hope to her two elementary aged sons because clearly, she was not getting anything concrete to cling to from Washington. Charisma and vagueness can only get you so far, Mr. President. People are actually starting to listen to what you say. I have even heard you state something and contradict yourself in only three sentences. I guess the saddest comment of the night was made by a woman who said that for the first time in her life...she was hesitant to put her name on the attendance sheet, of the TOWN HALL MEETING, out of fear of some type of retribution. Mr. President...that speaks volumes about your administration. Is this the legacy you seek? Well, it's the reputation you've got. The first and cheapest health care you could give us now is MENTAL HEALTH CARE...by telling Americans that you are not here to abbreviate one single freedom expressed in the Constitution, but rather to celebrate our rights. It won't cost you a cent, but it will certainly add to the wellness of millions of Americans who are downing antacids in greater number these days.

Note: Washington cannot hear the words of the loudest mime...Get verbal!

May God bless America...and may America deserve it!
Zanne Booker 9-09-09

HEALTH CARE: IF WE DO IT FOR TED...DON'T WE DO IT TO AMERICA?

Just because Ted is dead…doesn’t mean the presented health care bill is any more palatable or any less flawed. I do appreciate his passion and desire for quality health care throughout America. However, I don’t appreciate his funeral service being used as a soap box for a liberal train wreck. Was I supposed to get weepy eyed and cave because his young grandson stood up and mouthed a rehearsed (and predetermined) prelude to this bill? Young Kennedy said, “For what my Grandpa called the CAUSE OF HIS LIFE…as he said so often in every part of this land…that every American will have decent quality health care as a fundamental right and not a privilege…We pray to the Lord.” Well, we had all better pray to the Lord on this one. What is the rush? If over half of the proposed legislation is acceptable to the “Committee of Six” then why not implement that portion in stages? Instead of ramrodding Americans with this ALL-OR-NOTHING message and using intimidation tactics…and God only knows what else…to arm-twist congressional leaders, who are choking on the egregious parts, why don’t we come back to the table and set agendas, egos , and power aside for the cause of Americans now and to come? We pray to the Lord.

Note: Let’s get God involved in more government decisions…Start off praying for wisdom.

May God bless America…and may America deserve it?
Zanne Booker 8-29-09

Social Security Freeze...Will Nothing To Live "On" Equate To Nothing To Live "For"?

Who are the elderly? They are more than our parents and grandparents...They are our benefactors. For years they have been our military defenders, philanthropists (most anonymous contributors), upholders and protectors of the laws of the land (and the constitution), champions of technology, patrons of creativity, volunteers in the national spectrum, sponsors for innovations, backers of dreams, contributors to enlightenment, encouragers to the down-trodden...in short...NATIONAL TREASURES. Obama's administration is an enigma...a puzzle within a puzzle. It allows us to plunge headlong into medical research trying desperately to improve (and prolong) life while simultaneously thinking of ways to make elderly Americans want to euthanize themselves. Additionally, the disgraceful Social Security Cost Of Living Allowance (COLA) freeze adds a bleak reality to those on a fixed income. Could it be that it too ties in to the mandatory age 65 "END OF LIFE" pep-talk? Could it be that "nothing to live on" might equate to some of the elderly as "nothing to live for"? Are members of Congress ready to live by the same rules (and health plans) offered to us mere mortals? How about Mr. Obama? Until the President and Congressional leaders "get real" and start thinking like "their lives" depend on the decisions they make...I find it difficult to take them, or this health care plan, seriously. I am for cutting off NON-U.S. CITIZENS from health care instead of subjecting our elderly to "Death Counseling". Obama and his cronies are trying to build their empire while destroying their infrastructure...the pillars of society...who just happen to be the elderly.

Note: Only the foolish try to trivialize the deeds of the wise.

May God bless America...and may America deserve it!
Zanne Booker 8-24-09

Help Our Schools Lighten The Recession Depression!

Okay, Americans are feeling the pinch at home and on the job, however, our schools are in need of assistance...and you can help. Remember those expensive TI Calculators you purchased for your child? Yes, the ones that could calculate and calibrate for NASA. Well, what are you doing with them now that your child decided to major in ART while in college or to seek employment outside of the mathematical realm? Are you letting them gather dust while the batteries are corroding inside? Using them to balance your check book? Still trying to learn how to turn them on and off? Aside: push "2nd" and then "on" to turn it off. Whatever you are doing with them, remember some high school students desperately need them...especially since money is so tight and parents (sometimes both) are losing their jobs. Additionally, there are students coming to school with only two changes of clothes to their name. Call the schools and ask if there are any students (all grades) in need of clothing. The receptionist should be able to hook you up with someone who could receive your donations. Do not get discouraged if they are not in the clothing business...this is all new to schools on such a large scale. Churches know just what to do and can offer back-up to those in need. Continuing on...teachers have been put on tighter budgets than they are use to experiencing. With educators (I can only speak for Georgia) being furloughed, the extra money they unselfishly spent on their students to make the classroom run more efficiently, will be dwindling as well. If your student has allergies...send in boxes of tissues until his/her season has passed. If your student needs to print something out in the classroom...send xerox paper with them to replace the paper used. One Georgia High School opened the school year with a smile and one large box of xerox paper per teacher. The teachers were so excited until they were told it had to last them the whole semester. I have given you three suggestions, however, I would love to hear other ideas you have to help our schools. Keep your chin up, your wheels turning, and...above all...keep smiling!

Note: No matter who we've been in the past, let's always make sure we are striving to improve.

May God bless America...and may America deserve it!
Zanne Booker 8-22-09

Obama Calls In "The Bill" To Cajole Health Care Opposers

Well, it looks like Bill Clinton is being brought in to do one of two things, with regard to the proposed Health Care system. Either he is going to be an adviser to President Obama or he is going to be “the closer”. Flip a coin! No matter which way the former President flips…don’t be deceived. His magical charisma could very well be like the bewitching sirens Odysseus found necessary to shield his ears from… lest he and his crew sail to their doom. If you did not like the health care plan before…you certainly shouldn’t like it any better because “The Bill” is the new pitchman. Currently, the possible disappearance of the PUBLIC OPTION is the latest snag HEALTH CARE proposal advocates are facing. Giving Americans an option to peruse and choose in the private health insurance market is the corner stone to reform consideration and it was the “promised” plan one Senator Obama campaigned on. Why isn't it important now? Senator Max Baucus (MT) knows that labor unions have laud the “public option” and made it part of their reform policy. Now, all public options are not created equal. There are several ways of putting a public option into the play. One is to allow Americans to buy into Medicare. Another is to hook us up with the Federal Employee Health Benefits (FEHB) program, a health insurance system (controlled) which falls way short of the thriftier Medicare based option. Hopefully, Americans have wised-up to the transparency in Washington and realized the bait-and-switch tactics ushered in (under the wire) hours before the final vote. Until WE THE PEOPLE can trust our congressional leaders to read proposed legislation and make honest, incorruptible decisions on our behalf…we need to plug our ears to a sweeter sales pitch which could not only sink our generation’s ship, but cause future generations to fail to launch.

Note: It is sad to see that the circles our congressional leaders move in can cause them to continually spin.

May God bless America...and may America deserve it!
Zanne Booker 08-18-09

A Yard Sale For America Is The First Weekend In October!

“Ask not what your country can do for you—ask what you can do for your country.” Sound familiar? Well, JFK was not the first to utter it! He was in fact quoting from The New Frontier by Khalil Gibran...written thirty six years earlier. JFK never credited him. No matter who said it first...it is applicable today. Unfortunately, with the prevailing economic situation in America our family, friends, neighbors, and businesses are hurting. Earlier, I wrote a blog asking Americans to offer "free suggestions" if they came up with any ideas that would help businesses that were flailing. I recently gave some free marketing tips out myself. Now, there is something else we can do. I am declaring the first weekend in October...YARD SALE FOR AMERICA weekend! The money collected will go to the charity of your choice. All you need to do is affix a picture of the American flag on your yard sale sign, deposit the funds in your checking account, and write out a check to your charity as a receipt. Charities like the American Red Cross are hurting right now and we can clean out our closets while helping out our fellow man. Maybe the YARD SALE will be the catalyst we need to get rid of the "too small" items we have hoarded (for several years) foolishly thinking they would be an incentive to lose weight. If things don't sell...take them to a collection site like GOODWILL. We can all be "chipping in" by "kicking off " the YARD SALE FOR AMERICA!

Note: People don't mind giving nearly as much when they can choose the recipient.

May God bless America...and may America deserve it!

Zanne Booker 8-17-09

African Students Feel Sorry For U.S. Students

This is a true story. A female student travelled to Africa this summer with a group of students and chaperones. They were excited to make the trip due to the mystique surrounding the continent, the wildlife, and espeially because they were going to get to address students of another nation. She was...to quote her math teacher..."an awesome student". Finally the big day arrived and she took her place in front of the assembly. These Third World teens were accustomed to the hardships life had handed them. Even water for drinking and cooking had to be retrieved by walking two miles to obtain it. She felt pangs of sorrow for them and wished they too could know how wonderful America was as she began to address the group who longed to experience some of America's bounty. The envy in there faces was soon replaced with sorrow and pity for American students when she made one comment...Students were not allowed to talk about God in school. Believe me...I know just how they felt.

Note: It is sobering to go to sleep thinking that you have everything and wake up realizing you have nothing.

May God bless America...and may America deserve it!
Zanne Booker 08-11-09

Illegal Workers' Health Care Could Force Your Grandma's Early "Check-Out"...AKA Death

Congressional leaders are teetering on the brink of absurdity. Here we are in the midst of the biggest economic crisis America has ever faced and now they are presenting a disjointed piece of health care legislation which is juggling protection for the very lives of our own U.S. citizens to accommodate Illegal Aliens who haven’t paid a dime into the tax system and…ARE HERE ILLEGALLY! Supposedly, the workers who are undocumented wouldn’t be “technically” covered (Nancy Pelosi stated in a recent interview) but there is nothing like the challenge of a good technicality (loophole) for our more liberal minded representatives…and I use the term “representatives” loosely. FOXNEWS: But the reality, immigration analysts say, is that the legislation is missing any mechanism to keep them out of the system. And if they exploit that loophole, taxpayers could be on the hook for billions to cover health care costs that employers don't. Early figures from the Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR) have Illegals accounting for $10.7 billion in federal and state health care expenditures which is derived largely from emergency room visits (which includes births). An estimated 7.25 million Illegal immigrants do not have health care insurance. They don’t pay taxes and they don’t spring for health care. Meanwhile, back in reality land, we have elderly individuals who worked hard and paid taxes all their lives and they are fearfully facing the possibility of mandatory classes (at age 65) which deal with “Death Options” and Euthanasia. The reason so many Illegals are uninsured, according to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, is because they are less likely to be offered health insurance by their employers. I guess this is where I am suppose to get misty eyed. What employer in his/her right mind is going to start inquiring into health care benefits for their illegal employees? Remember…they are not supposed to employ Illegal Aliens. They do serve a purpose though…President Obama loves to include them in his statistical count of uninsured individuals living in America. I’m having a real hard time with welcoming Illegals to “check-in” to our health care fold while asking Grandma to “check-out”!

Note: There is nothing more disgraceful as the indifference of the ungrateful.

May God bless America…and may America deserve it!
Zanne Booker 7-30-09

BRIC Countries Strike Precarious Pose Holding U.S. Dollars

What are BRIC Countries you may ask? Just take the first letter from each of the four countries which, in economic terms, are growing and developing at an accelerated rate…Brazil, Russia, India, and China…and combine them. The BRIC countries are holding a summit meeting in the Russian city of Yekaterinburg to discuss the status of the U.S. dollar as the dominant world currency. China and Russia have already voiced a desire to see it replaced. Since these four countries have major acquisitions of U.S. dollars, the shock factor of their words can be felt in the financial markets and in Congress. "Although China's call for a new reserve currency is premature, it is legitimate," says Shujie Yao, a professor of economics at the School of Contemporary Chinese Studies (University of Nottingham). Brazil has, to a lesser degree, expressed concern and even though India remains less vocal…they are attending the summit. Meanwhile, Russian President Medvedev wanted discussion on the proposal of a “supranational currency”, a world currency in which the vast majority of international transactions take place. These sentiments have recently led to a decline in the dollar against other major currencies. Bottom line, the direction the United States is taking, to boost its financial recovery, is hurting the value of the dollar. Now, let’s couple it with a looming health care plan which is destined to cost more than America can currently (if ever) afford. Printing more money isn’t the answer! China and Russia are already diversifying their currency reserves with those of other countries. The only thing we have going for us…thus far…is that a move away from the dollar would drastically hurt the value of their reserves. Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner keeps reassuring China that the US will address the rising budget deficits when the economy’s recovery is “in place” and then the Administration will backpedal on spending (literally) hundreds of billions stimulating the economy and trying to salvage a wobbly financial system. Still, China (and Russia) continue to buy gold bullion in large quantities. Throughout history, gold has been the only currency one could ultimately count on…It is the “SUPRANATIONAL CURRENCY”!

Note: If America doesn’t pace itself “other nations” will provide us with a pacemaker.

May God bless America…and may America deserve it!
Zanne Booker 7-28-09

Meeting With Obama For Beer? Bring Your Lawyer!

Cambridge, Massachusetts police officer, Sergeant Jim Crowley, responded to what he thought was a typical break-in call and ended up with an invitation to the White House to have brewskies with the perpetrator...and the President. The incident wouldn't have necessitated the "beer call" had the President not decided to comment..."stupidly"...to the occurrence and defend his buddy, the individual who "broke in" to his own home. Aside: The reporter (Lynn Sweet) says she picked the inappropriately posed question; FOXNEWS says the reporter was acting upon a White House request. Back to the blog. Apparently, Henry Louis Gates, an African American academic (Harvard) and pal of President Obama, was returning home from a trip to China and encountered a jammed door at his home. He must have been fatigued because rather than call a lock smith...he chose to break in, spurring a 911 call from his neighbor...which I would have welcomed. Gates did not. So much for neighborhood watch! Aside: Why a Harvard man found the necessity to refer to Officer Crowley's "Mama" during the police investigation is beyond me. Back to the blog. Now, this story has been twisted and tweaked daily so we may never know the whole truth and nothing but, however, I have one suggestion for Sergeant Crowley...make sure you add one more drinking buddy to the list...a very good lawyer. Everything is taped these days and you need a "designated listener". I'm sure any of the top legal eagles in the U. S. would be more than happy to work pro bono to be in that mix.


Note: An ounce of prevention is worth a ton of legal headaches.

May God bless America...and may America deserve it!
Zanne Booker 7-27-09

Driving Down Health Care Costs...With Self & Virtual Diagnosis

Every year I get at least one sinus infection...sometimes two. The steps are always the same. I call for an appointment, I tell the screener my symptoms, the doctor and I have our one-on-one, and he/she writes the prescription. With the eventual Socialized Medicine scenario, that we are seeing on America's horizon, we are going to have to be a little more trusting of our "chronic" patients. If after someone has been diagnosed with a sinus infection once (or twice) yearly, during the same allergy season for two years, he/she should be able to call in...at least once a year...a prescription and the "system" should just take his/her word for it! Now, if an additional round of antibiotics is needed (which does happen) a doctor's visit will be necessary. Additionally, virtual doctor websites exist even now. I was feeling pretty smug...because I thought I came up with the idea...but apparently someone has beat me to it. One such site is http://www.freemd.com/?cs=1 which "showcases" Dr. Stephen Schueler, an emergency room physician...and virtual doctor. You simply type a condition or symptom in the search box and he will ask you questions and make possible suggestions as to your problem...and tell you if you indeed need to see a physician. It is pretty much what the health screener's job is currently. The advantage to this situation would be that you could...if the health care gurus would let you forward the "virtual findings"...not have to waste the screener's time with time consuming questions. Instead you could just wait for the call as to your appointment time and date...or...come and pick up your prescription! Of course all history information would be entered into a database and prescriptions would be tracked by the screener before your case determination because, unfortunately, there are those who would try to corrupt the system. Think how many people would be spared the waiting room duration and disease exposure...especially during cold and flu season! Well, they are going to have to relinquish some of the "doctor duties" somewhere and these are two of my suggestions. What are some of your cost saving suggestions for our health care system? Let's hear some chatter!

Note: Maybe one day health care screeners, forms, and waiting rooms will be a thing of the past...I guess they'll have to go through an evolutionary process.

May God bless America...and may America deserve it!
Zanne Booker 7-23-09

Walter Cronkite: Plumb Line Of Integrity

I would be remiss if I did not pay tribute to Walter Cronkite who passed away yesterday at the age of 92. I have listened to nothing but continual praise for this man of conviction, social consciousness, and scruples. It is hard to believe that CBS once had this LEGEND on their payroll…How could they have gone so far off the mark while following in the wake of this PLUMB LINE OF INTEGRITY? Mr. Cronkite found no room for bias or deceit in his reporting. Politics were something he “reported on” and did not “participate in” during his news briefs…the stakes were too high. He simply believed in telling the truth and letting the people discern. I am saddened at the possibility that indeed he may be the last of his kind in the broadcasting realm. He will be missed, but never replaced. Hopefully, his greatest legacy will be shaming the media out of yellow journalism practices.

Note: It is more relaxing to listen to someone we trust deliver an important message. After listening to someone we do not…the verification process is exhausting.

May God bless America…and may America deserve it!
Zanne Booker 7-18-09

Health Care Reform Bill (Draft) Unveiled In The House

House Democrats unveiled…finally…the much talked about health care reform bill today. Well, the draft anyway. Those elusive details will be ironed out later. Talk about “sticker shock”! Small businesses and individuals in a high-income bracket will be nestling up to a whopping 5.4 percent surtax…of adjusted gross income, not taxable income…ergo it is applicable to almost everything which “was” deductible from one’s previous taxable income. Charitable contributions, medical expenses, and even home mortgage interests will be OBAMATIZED! But President Obama isn’t stopping there. In 2011 he plans to repeal the Bush tax cuts…right on schedule… raising the top capital gains tax rate from 15 to 25.4 percent. Ouch! Did he mention that during the campaign? Whose side is he on anyway? Maybe someone should hand him a few business textbooks to read on Air Force One. These “tax spikes” would rock small businesses…and let’s face it…middle-sized ones too. There is a recession going on and he seems clueless as to the role of small (and middle-sized) businesses during tough economic times…which we are now in the throws thereof. Maybe you aren’t too terribly phased by the “regular” income tax rate leaping from 35% to 45% (with the new surtax)…before being applied to ADJUSTED GROSS INCOME…but I am. Oh...by the way...there will be a 2.5% tax on individuals who don’t have health insurance! Wasn’t there a casual mention of no requirement for people to be insured during his campaign? Well, I guess you don’t have to be…you’ll just be taxed for not being. I wonder if that one came up during a reading from Shakespeare? Who am I forgetting? Oh, yes…EMPLOYERS! They would be required to provide health insurance under two new regulations, guaranteed issue ( a health policy which offers health insurance coverage to people with preexisting conditions) and community rating (everyone pays the same premium) which would probably send the cost soaring…or…pay a payroll tax of up to 8%. Keep in mind that it is above the existing Social Security and Medicare payroll taxes. Now, before you think the roller-coaster ride is over…hold onto your seats because your state and local taxes haven’t been thrown into the mix. As we speak, they are dreaming up ways to tax us for anything from the rain falling on our roofs (and going into sewers) to designer speeding tickets (for “Super Speeders”). All I’ve got to say is…it is a great time to be an illegal alien!

Note: The only reason the government isn’t taxing happiness is because they don’t have a gauge…but I’m sure a blueprint is in the works.

May God bless America…and may America deserve it!
Zanne Booker 7-16-09

Janet Napolitano And The President Review Their Colors...In The Terror Alert System

Once in a while even I love to have fun at Washington's expense. Imagine having only five colors to work with and our Homeland Security Secretary, Janet Napolitano, finding a need to appoint a panel of "reevaluators" to determine whether to alter or eliminate the current five-tiered terror alert system, that was put in place after 9-11. Jeff Foxworthy's show...ARE YOU SMARTER THAN A FIFTH GRADER?...comes to mind. I have two candidates to suggest for panel positions. I would like to offer my services because I like to color with my grandchildren and have mastered the eight-pack Crayola choice chart. The original system starts with GREEN...which means GO!... at the lowest end of the spectrum and signals to GO about your business because there is a low attack probability. Let's keep that one! RED, that's the highest one, means STOP! Stop your cavalier wanderings and be painfully aware of your surroundings and suspicious individuals. Let's keep that one too! Now, the panel only has to find three more colors to code. Okay...I'll work for free! The middle color should be YELLOW. After all, YELLOW is in the middle of a traffic light and it means caution. Every kindergarten student knows that one, so there should be no confusion up to this point. YELLOW should mean caution...the alert climate could turn at any time, but you have time to prepare to advance with your daily plans or to retreat to a safer area. Now...there are two more colors to pick! In school...that would be elementary school...I was taught how to mix the three primary colors to create secondary ones. Let's mix YELLOW with RED to make ORANGE and sandwich it between YELLOW and RED. ORANGE should be right under RED and just above YELLOW in the color chart (and national intensity). That leaves one more for the panel! Isn't it embarrassing that a senior U.S. official had to issue a statement that the Obama administration would review the nation's multicolored terror alert system. That's like Michelle Obama announcing that she is picking new bathroom wallpaper. Maybe one of the President's children should have mentioned it while walking the dog. Where was I? Oh, yes...the final color...the one perched between YELLOW and GREEN. Are you ready? Get rid of it! I know, Janet, I know...I love BLUE also, but it is serving no purpose. Let's think GREEN-YELLOW-ORANGE-RED which equates to LOW-ELEVATED-HIGH-SERVERE. Hopefully, you will call off the panel search now and get back to real problems while saving the taxpayers the expense you would have incurred. Oh...by the way...I almost forgot to mention my other panel member choice. It was BIG BIRD!

Note: Sometimes men can talk much about little...and do little about much.

May GOD bless America...and may America deserve it!
Zanne Booker 7-13-09

CAP & TRADE EQUALS CAP & SPADE: DIGGING OURSELVES DEEPER INTO DEBT

Some are giddy with excitement because forty Democrats voted against the WAXMAN CAP AND TRADE (HR 2454…THE American Clean Air and Security Act), but guess what…it passed anyway! Eight “sell-out” Republicans…let’s call them “SPECTER-LIKES”… free-fell into the abyss and came out reeking of quid quo pro. Well, it’s off to the Senate now where there are fewer places to hide. ASIDE: Personally, I feel that America has grown beyond the two senator per state rule and now we need three per…with one caveat…there can be only two from the same party at any time. Now back to C&T! “PEOPLE”…it will tax all of us when it comes to energy usage and…according to Herman Cain… “If passed, this bill would be one of the largest expansions of federal government since the IRS grew into the intrusive bureaucracy it is today.” Even our President admits there will be an added cost to every business and household. The cost to each family could range from $700 to $3000 a year... The Massachusetts Institute of Technology study determined the higher figure to be more accurate…I concur. Write your House of Representative leaders and tell them what you think about the way they voted…and while you are at it…send a copy to both of your Senators. Maybe they’ll get a kick out of it…a swift one in the right direction!

To write your SENATOR: http://www.senate.gov/general/contact_information/senators_cfm.cfm
To write your HOUSE REPRESENTATIVE: https://writerep.house.gov/writerep/welcome.shtml

May GOD bless America…and may America deserve it!
Zanne Booker 7-03-09

Note: Sometimes constituents write their congressional representatives and they get a kick out of it…a swift one in the right direction.

May GOD bless America…and may America deserve it!
Zanne Booker 7-09-09

Connecticut Firemen's Hottest Battle Won In The Supreme Court!

I am happy to announce that the “quota requirement” debacle, faced by a group of New Haven, CT. firefighters, was declared UNCONSTITUTIONAL by the United States Supreme Court in a 5-4 vote. Sonia Sotomayor’s joint decision (three-judge panel) had expressed that the city of New Haven was simply trying to fulfill its obligations under federal law when confronted with the test results that had a disproportionate racial impact. ASIDE: One of the firefighters was dyslexic and, after intensive studying, received high marks on one of the exams. So much for her controversial “WISE LATINA WOMAN” comment (October 26, 2001). Let me repeat myself…Lady Justice is a sword toting, scale bearing, blind-folded symbol of fair and equal justice. This has got to be a 24-7 commitment for all races and creeds! I am finding it difficult to understand how any judge, with the bench experience of Sonia Sotomayor, doesn’t get the importance of blind justice. Oh sure, President Obama wants empathy, but she should know better. Scarier yet is the voting results of the Supreme Court. Four of the justices were actually doing double duty during the session…trying to support Sotomayor’s verdict while trying to condone their lame stance. If we replace “LIBERTY AND JUSTICE FOR ALL” with “LIBERTY AND JUSTICE FOR SOME” now…it leaves the door open for “LIBERTY AND JUSTICE FOR NONE” eventually.

Note: Justice is the plumbline for the "crooked".

May God bless America...and may America deserve it!
Zanne Booker 7-02-09

Obama's New Math Is Actually Skew Math

When I was in school they taught me to make sure my presentations were concise and factual. I was to utilize infallible statistics to back up conclusions and was not to leave room for conjecture. “Hypothesis” was only appreciated in the science lab. The teachers knew if I tried to “skew” with my point of view. Pretty much, that is what is being taught in schools across the nation today. So why is President Obama’s new math turning into Skew Math? Doesn’t he realize that math is the pure science? It has been dubbed “pure” because it uses no experiments or observations…only reason and logic. Unfortunately, his administration’s presentations are becoming…well…laughable. I know they are receiving guidance from the liberal left, however, his tsars’ attempts to tweak, leave them appearing weak. The President can have Geithner and Company crunch numbers till the cows come home, but they still will not add up. When the head of a household screws-up the family’s finances it can involve losing a home. When the head of a country screws-up the nation’s finances…well…you get my point.

Note: The Constitution has an outlined system of CHECKS AND BALANCES. The President can protest all he wants to…BUT…this so-called “tsar status” is UNCONSTITUTIONAL and the tsars…like it or not…fall under the Executive Branch and are therefore “CHECKABLE”. Just take them to court!

May God bless America…and may America deserve it!
Zanne Booker 6-23-09

Jerusalem Belongs To The Jews!

Benjamin Netanyahu believes that President Obama cannot fully understand the relevance of Jerusalem to the Jewish people and gave a quote from the Israeli National Anthem which declares that the city is "The hope of two thousand years, the land of Zion". Yet…I am quite sure Barak Hussein Obama can grasp the concept of Mecca…the most holy city in Islam (located in Saudi Arabia). It is the very city that came under Muhammad’s control in 630 and experienced a purging of all non-Muslim religions from its realm. Many Muslims feel that the Jews do not deserve Jerusalem…and that they do. Well, GOD gave it to them and I for one am certainly not going to dispute boundary lines with HIM! If you are a Christian reading this blog let me give you a brief refresher course as to our obligatory protection necessity when it comes to the Jews...and “their” holy city. Romans 11: 16-18 states: (16) If the first piece of dough is holy, the lump is also; and if the root is holy, the branches are too. (17) But if some of the branches were broken off, and you, being a wild olive, were grafted in among them and became partaker with them of the rich root of the olive tree, (18) do not be arrogant toward the branches; but if you are arrogant, remember that it is not you who supports the root, but the root supports you. Because of the transgressions of the Jews a door of salvation was opened to the Gentiles (non-Jews) to make them (the Jews) jealous and eventually accept God’s son. We are loved by GOD, but we are waiting with GOD for their “penitent” return. So, don’t get comfy thinking the Jewish people are no longer relevant to our existence or that the land mass GOD gave to them thousands of years ago is somehow “up for grabs”. GOD has a purpose for that real estate and it is not for mere mortals to second guess or sell it out from under HIS "chosen" tenants…the Jews.

Note: If I have to choose sides...I'll pick GOD'S everytime.

May God bless America...and may America deserve it!
Zanne Booker 6-22-09

Please feel free to leave a comment by clicking on the word "comments" below.

Americans Have A Powerful Ally...If We Will Use Him

Being Republicans, Democrats, or Independents should never matter as long as we are first and foremost…Christians. For too long people have been evolving into self absorbed individuals who base their decisions upon their own well being...leading to an unquenchable greed that has rocked literally the entire world. How has that been working for us? Countless times we have looked over our accomplishments while overlooking our shortcomings? If people have no belief in God…then I feel sorry for them because, in times of hardship and trouble, they have no “comforter” or advocate. I once knew a mother with two beautiful children. The father took them to church while she stayed at home. One day her son (5) was given an unfortunate diagnosis and she was told that one of his testicles would have to be removed. I went to the hospital, prior to surgery, to be with her. Of course…I asked her if we could pray together. She said that she could not, but that if I wanted to…it would be okay with her. Well, I prayed…and she listened. I must admit my surprise that a mother would not even pray to God on her own child’s behalf. After surgery, baffled doctors came out of the operating room with smiles, saying that there had been every indication of a serious problem…but the boy was repaired and thus spared (the removal). Oddly enough…she told the doctors that I had said a prayer for her son. A doctor replied, “That must have been some prayer!” Actually, it was “SOME GOD”. People…we’ve got problems in America, but we also have an Ally. Stop feeling “down” and start looking “up”! We need to pray often and fast frequently to overcome this worldwide crisis. Ungodliness is the worst pandemic we will ever face because it doesn’t restrict itself to the body…and it lasts an eternity.

Note: God never puts a lock on his door.
May God bless America…and may America deserve it!
Zanne Booker 6-16-09

Here Is A Thought For Dairy Farmers!

What does Vermont's maple syrup business have in common with California's dairy operations? A self-inflicted lack of marketing desire. I went to Vermont two years ago all ready to learn about maple syrup down to the very last drop. To my disappointment...after I left the Welcome Center (at the state's border) the best I could come up with was an unimpressive roadside building where I found myself watching a video on a folding chair (I think there were 3 total) and looking forward to leaving. This is a new era and businesses have to be more than the intent of their original purpose. Sell your product, educate your consumers, and create a tourist trap! This is no time to think minimalistically. GOOD LUCK!

Note: If anyone has an idea to help our ailing economy or businesses...then spill it! WE THE PEOPLE are in this together!

May God bless America...and may America deserve it!
Zanne Booker 6-15-09

Emperor Obama Has No Clothes

Once in a while I will come up with an idea for a blog and the same (or similar) sentiment will be voiced on the news… or the internet… a few days-to-weeks later. This time I ran across a similar type of reasoning…only the U.S. President wasn’t the same one that this Democratic Senator chose to highlight, on the senate floor, back in 2003. It is amazing to see that seizure of “power” does not bring clarity when political agendas (or corruption) are present.

I must first acknowledge the original fairy tale The Emperor’s New Clothes courtesy of Danish author, Hans Christian Andersen (1837). The premise is that an emperor cared more about his appearance than wisely ruling his realm. Two corrupt individuals promised him the finest clothing in the world, which would be made of a rare cloth, invisible to anyone who was either stupid or not worthy of “his” position. The Emperor and his ministers could not see the cloth either, however, they pretended to…so they would not appear mentally deficient or unworthy. When the “swindlers” returned with the apparel, the ruler paraded through the streets and revealed his new clothes. As the procession continued, the perplexed people “OOHED-and-AAHED” because they too did not want to seem dim-witted. One child called out from the crowd and revealed that the Emperor had “nothing on” and the crowd realized their own error in judgement. The prideful Emperor decided to continue on, even though he realized he was both duped and naked, and the chamberlains continued to carry the robe’s train…which did not exist.

I will have to thank Senator Robert Byrd (D-West Virginia) for some of the material in this blog. He was talking about the Iraq war, however, the similarity of the new Administration and majority Congress…to heed sound judgement…seems uncanny. I will number his quotes, for ease of reference, and put my alterations in red. Notice how easily one can substitute the words with economic issues of today. (1) Those who have dared to expose the nakedness of the Administration’s policies in Iraq--economic policies in the U.S.--have been subjected to scorn..have had our patriotism questioned. (2) The right to ask questions, debate, and dissent is under attack. The drums of war are beaten ever louder in an attempt to drown out those who speak of our predicament in stark terms. (2) SAME SCENARIO TODAY (3) Even in the Senate, our history and tradition of being the world’s greatest deliberative body is being snubbed. This huge spending ill has been rushed through this chamber in just one month. (3) SAME SCENARIO TODAY (4) I cannot stand by and continue to watch our grandchildren become increasingly burdened by the billions that fly out of the Treasury for a war--"economic disasters"-- and a policy based largely on propaganda and prevarication. (5) It is dangerous to manipulate the truth. It is dangerous because once having lied, it is difficult to ever be believed again…this Administration must now attempt to sustain a policy predicated on falsehoods. (5) SAME SCENARIO TODAY (6) But the time has come for the sheep-like political correctness which has cowed members of this Senate to come to an end. The Emperor has no clothes. (6) DITTO! It is time for congressional leaders of both major parties to quit sacrificing our freedoms…and those of future generations...because of party ties. I fear the robe’s train is coming and America is holding on to nothing...I know Congress is.

Note: When a Doppler weather station issues a disaster warning...it is heeded. When economic indicators issue disaster warnings...the Obama Administration keeps recalculating. When do we take cover?

Note: Have you ever wondered if the Obama Administration is selling us out?

May God bless America...and may America deserve it!
Zanne Booker 6-13-09

OBAMA AND THE MIRANDA WARNING

OBAMA AND THE MIRANDA WARNING…Sounds like a bedtime story doesn’t it? Well, far from it. It is more like a NIGHTMARE! Apparently, according to U.S. Lawmakers, the Obama Administration has ordered the FBI to read “detainees” their rights. A senior Republican on the House Intelligence Committee has made accusations that they are “quietly” ordering the FBI to “Mirandize” terrorist suspects at detention facilities in Afghanistan. Excuse me? Now, let’s put it into perspective. We are just coming off the 65th Anniversary celebration of D-Day. Let me recycle a few of President Obama’s words. President Obama: ...The sheer improbability of this victory is part of what makes D-Day so memorable. It also arises from the clarity of purpose with which this war was waged. No one had any misconceptions of the intent of the enemy at Normandy or in any combat situation. No one cared about Miranda Rights when…as President Obama stated…an unimaginable hell rained down on the men inside (ships at Omaha). So why is Mr. Obama trying to befuddle those in the field (CIA, FBI, soldiers, etc.) by creating chaos according to Rep. Mike Rogers, R-Michigan? Every war…and we are at war…has to have “the clarity of purpose” you addressed so eloquently, President Obama. You are becoming an embarrassment, Mr. President, because you can eloquently deliver a speech, but fumble with its meaning in any historical context beyond the one “at hand”. Lyndon Johnson said that there are moments when "...history and fate meet at a single time in a single place to shape a turning point in man's unending search for freedom." There were no Miranda Rights for the minutemen who gathered at Lexington. There were no Miranda Rights for the D-Day soldiers, sailors, and paratroopers. There should be no Miranda Rights for anyone who threatens the security of our nation…or any nation…when placed in the throes of war!

Note: Every soldier should enter into combat confident that his leaders are on his side.

May God bless America…and may America deserve it!
Zanne Booker 6-12-09

Part II Of Letterman's Apology...Ahem...To The Palins

It was an interesting apology, Mr. Letterman. How did you sleep last night? I'm sure it was a little tougher for Sarah Palin's teenage daughter...the one we now realize was the "real" target for your joke. Great job! Now, you have made two Palin daughters cry. Even if a teenager gets pregnant...and is now 18...it should not make her "fair game" and give anyone (especially a grown man who just happens to be a talk show host for CBS) the right to declare "open season" on her emotions. Have you heard of postpartum depression? You don't have the right to deny her a fresh start with her child...no one does. She made a mistake in judgement just like millions of teenagers in America...and you. Certainly, she doesn't need an extended reputation that links her to being the brunt of comedians' jokes because they lack the wit to come up with humorous material. ASIDE: Even if you had a writer you made the call to use it. When you are ready to truly apologize then I have a website for you to peruse below. Sometimes people choose to stand their ground and discover too late that it is shakey.

LISAB wrote: I regret my comments were offensive to you. Is that an apology? No! If you screw up, say, "I screwed up." Explain that there was no malicious intent -- and mean it! Everyone screws up; no one is expected to be perfect. http://www.physicsforums.com/archive/index.php/t-236825.html

Note: Not one person would want to be defined by the dumbest decision they ever made in their life, but rather by the potential they possess to make hundreds of wise ones.

Reiteration: Sometimes people choose to stand their ground and discover too late that it is shakey.

May God bless America...and may America deserve it!

Zanne Booker 06-11-09

David Letterman's Immaturity Has Him 'Groping' Governor Palin's 14-Year-Old For Humor

David Letterman’s lack of maturity has him “groping” Governor Palin's 14-year-old for humor. I guess the old saying “PICK ON SOMEONE YOUR OWN SIZE” is appropriate when it comes to David Letterman’s (CBS) crude…and misguided...humor attempt, at Governor Sarah Palin’s daughter’s expense. Imagine being 14-years-old and having a sleazy old talk-show host making a totally inappropriate comment about you getting “knocked up” by a Yankees’ third baseman…Alex Rodriguez. ASIDE: I’M SURE RODRIGUEZ WOULD HAVE LOVED TO HAVE PUMMELED HIM...RIGHT AFTER HER DAD. Has Letterman become so “sexually perverted” that he finds it humorous an underaged girl would be sexually abused? This comment came on the heels of his referring to her mother as “…having the style of a slutty flight attendant”. Now, there is a sexist remark! Apparently, the Palins were attending a Yankees game, during their stay in New York, where the Alaskan governor was being honored by a special needs group. At least Letterman showed enough control to back off of any remarks about her youngest child. Todd Palin (father) told FOXNews.com: "Any ‘jokes’ about raping my 14-year-old are despicable. Alaskans know it, and I believe the rest of the world knows it, too." Now, I don’t care which child, he chose to single out…he was out of control and should issue an apology…which would involve him putting on his BIG BOY PANTS…and being a man. He should probably make a few visits to a therapist while he is at it.

Note: Children can be sacrificed in many ways...none of them are good.

May God bless America...and may America deserve it!

Zanne Booker 06-10-09

WE THE PEOPLE VS PRESIDENT OBAMA, HIS ADMINISTRATION, AND CONGRESS

I am curious…if indeed the Obama regime, with the help of our congressional leaders, is violating the Constitution of the United States then can we not take them to court in a case labeled something like WE THE PEOPLE VS PRESIDENT OBAMA, HIS ADMINISTRATION, AND CONGRESS? Perhaps it should be three (or more) separate court cases…but you get my drift. I know millions of Americans would love to donate to the cause by paying for lawyer and court fees. Does anyone know a good Constitutional law attorney? Perhaps we’ll need an entire firm. Obama and his cronies are running out of control and Americans are running out of patience...and time. We need to do something quick before they shred the Constitution and our military starts “goose stepping” 'round the White House.

Note: The Constitution is only as steadfast as the people it protects.

May God bless America…and may America deserve it!

Zanne Booker 6-06-09

House Republicans Offer Plan To "Stop Rewarding Failure"...With Taxpayer Money

The winds of change are blowing...from the Republicans! Republicans in the House are busy putting the finishing touches on a plan to “stop rewarding failure” and make sure taxpayers are never again asked to pay for missteps (blunders) on Wall Street. The GOP members of the House Financial Services Committee aim to have their version…which I am quite sure will vary greatly from the one the Democrats are writing…by Tuesday. It is a much needed proposal to revamp the financial regulatory system and would, in essence, rightfully guide failing companies toward bankruptcy, bypassing the ever popular bailout strategy. Additionally, it would take away the oversight authority of the Federal Reserve with regard to the financial industry. It opposes the creation of a systemic risk regulator and government resolution authority…lauded by the Obama Administration. Geithner's layout of the ‘Resolution Authority’ wants to give the President power to dismantle, reorganize, or jostle failing companies and at the same time…and this is the scary part…it would shift some of the authority held by the judiciary to the executive branch supposedly to expedite bankruptcy proceedings. Now, I have a problem with anyone trying to mess with the “Checks and Balance System” and so should every American no matter what your political affiliation. The House Republican blueprint calls for Federal Reserve audits, via the Government Accountability Office, and the transfer of many of its consumer protection and oversight powers to separate agencies. I especially like the audit part because no office or agency handling money should be exempt from accountability. Lastly, it would mandate that Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae become private institutions. Let's hope Congress finds their spine and works together on this one in a bipartisan manner. Currently, they are forging the shackles which are enslaving even their own children...due to pettiness and pride.

Note: Pettiness and pride can forge the shackles which enslave even our own children.

May God bless America...and may America deserve it!

Zanne Booker 6-04-09

My Fellow Americans...Stop Looking For Leaders And Become One!

As President Obama skillfully leads us down the road to socialism (he has studied Constitutional law)...or fascism...WE THE PEOPLE sit on the sidelines watching and woefully waiting for our "individual" lot in life to be somehow altered...for the better...so that we can jump start our apathetic activity. People...the jump-start is a "negative charge" and not a "positive" one this time! Just like a negative charge has a lower electric potential we are seeing a lowering of our potential "monetarily and politically"!

BUT WHAT CAN WE DO?
(1)Write your congressional representatives (and the White House)... they work for us!
(2)Start talking about it with your neighbors.
(3)Write your newspapers and television stations (local and national) and ask for support...this is better received with a petition of at least 1000 signatures, however, do not discount a "well written" letter from an individual!
(4)Take some of your hard earned cash...you could even pool your money...and pay for advertisement space in the newspaper or on television.
(5) REMEMBER...YOU JUST HAVE TO BE VOCAL AND VISUAL TO BE VEXING...NOT VIOLENT!
(6) Read Herman Cain's website information: http://www.hermancain.com/default.asp
(7) Stop looking for leaders and become one!

How to contact your congressional leaders (House and Senate):
https://writerep.house.gov/writerep/welcome.shtml
http://www.senate.gov/

IF YOU HAVE ANY SUGGESTIONS PLEASE SEND THEM TO MY COMMENTS SECTION...WE ARE IN THIS TOGETHER!

Just because Obama is not ranting like a lunatic and our army is not goose-stepping across the parade field doesn't mean we are not in a world of hurt. So many of us are still stinging from the Bush Administration "irritation" and we are failing to open our eyes to a worse fate before us. If you are one who is still "hiding behind a Bush" then you are going to have to look at America's situation from the eyes of the International community. China has invested heavily in the United States' debt. Now, you do realize that if you are "indebted" to anyone...or any nation...you are basically going to have to answer to them...or be influenced by them...in some capacity, right? We cannot let America turn from being an International "SUPER POWER" to being an International "SUPERMARKET"! Basically, we are selling off pieces of our assets (and lives) to investors! During Timothy Geithner's recent visit to China he visited and addressed a University. “Chinese assets are very safe,” Geithner said after his speech at Peking University (where he studied Chinese in the 1980s). The "student audience" laughed!

Michelle Malkin (June 1, 2009): His answer drew loud laughter from his student audience, reflecting scepticism in China about the wisdom of a developing country accumulating a vast stockpile of foreign reserves instead of spending the money to raise living standards at home.

Russian Stanislav Mishin: It must be said, that like the breaking of a great dam, the American decent into Marxism is happening with breath taking speed, against the back drop of a passive, hapless sheeple, excuse me dear reader, I meant people.

FOXNEWS (May 20,2009) WASHINGTON -- Republicans on Wednesday abandoned an effort to label their opponents the "Democrat Socialist Party," ending a fight within the GOP ranks that reflected the divide between those who want a more centrist message and those seeking a more aggressive, conservative voice. Supporters of the resolution asking the Democratic Party to change its name instead agreed to accept language urging Democrats to "stop pushing our country towards socialism and government control."

Isn't it like trying to differentiate between Soft Porn and Hard Porn? The "Soft" isn't showing everything and the "Hard" is...either way...the American people are screwed!

Note: Stop looking for leaders and become one!

May God bless America...and may America deserve it!

Zanne Booker 6-02-09

Sonia Sotomayor's Judgement Day

The time is upon us to find a replacement judge for the United States Supreme Court’s retiring Justice David Souter. As always, the battle lines are drawn and both major parties are revving up to make their positions known. Whether you are for or against President Obama’s selection of Sonia Sotomayor is of little relevance because the chances of her losing the position are slim. However, we do need to look at the importance of “conscience” with regard to any judge professing to have the wisdom, which is what the office is really all about, to decide the fate of an individual, group, or issue of great importance. When a judge is too close to a case (i.e. lacking the ability to remain impartial due to irrepressible bias) he or she has an opt out obligation…recusal. Simply put, to disqualify or remove oneself to avoid either a conflict of interest or the illusion of impropriety. This act of recusement is one of the issues that Sotomayor will face in spite of her poignant life story, impressive qualifications, and extensive judicial experience. Her joint decision with regard to a group of firefighters who went before the court to sue the city of New Haven, CT. when they had passed a required examination for promotion will also become a point of note. Apparently, there were no African-Americans who scored high enough to be promoted so the city decided to invalidate the test and not promote anyone. Truly this was a case of reverse race discrimination. Unfortunately, nominee Sotomayor was one of the Circuit Court level judges who dismissed the firefighters’ case…which is now slated to the docket of U.S. Supreme Court. Oh, the irony of it all. According to Sotomayor and the others comprising the three-judge panel: The city of New Haven was simply trying to fulfill its obligations under federal law when confronted with test results that had a disproportionate racial impact. ASIDE: One of the firefighters was dyslexic and, after intensive studying, received high marks on one of the exams. Truly the “quota requirement”, even if sanctioned by federal law, is unconstitutional. Why even test? Lady Justice is a sword toting, scale bearing, blind-folded symbol of fair and equal justice. Her sword symbolizes that she stands capable to cut to the heart of the matter before her and execute justice. The scales show her ready to weigh the evidence presented while examining both the pros and cons. She is blind-folded so that no creed, color, or status can have the upper hand. All who enter the hallowed court should not feel that they do so at their own peril, but rather with confidence when RIGHT is on their side. May Sonia Sotomayor be that “Lady of Justice” while serving on any bench.

Note: When justice fails…injustice prevails.

May God bless America…and may America deserve it!

Zanne Booker 5-28-09

America Needs To Be Worthy Of The Sacrifices Our Service Men And Women Are Making!

When veterans arrive home they need to return to some semblance of normalcy. Currently, America is remaining in a constant state of flux with even those who stayed behind experiencing anxiety as businesses and jobs hang in the balance. We find transparency in Washington turning into lunacy with each revelation from the White House. Consequently, we need to let our fighting men and women know that there is a war on two fronts! Over there...and right here in America. It is time to trade weapons. All Americans need to move seamlessly from brawn to brain while combating the crisis at home...starting at becoming penpals with our elected officials and ending with the ballot box. We need to stand up, speak up, and chastise politicians who slip up! WE THE PEOPLE need to know that this is a ongoing mission and no time to "stand down". America isn't what it use to be...we have had a series of setbacks...but it can be even better with everyone's help. Our veterans left for a noble cause... they should return with a flourish of validation that it was not in vain.

Note: Warriors who leave for a noble cause need to have it validated upon their return.

May God bless America...and may America deserve it!

Zanne Booker 5-26-09

Liberals May Appreciate Gun-Rights Expansion If Gitmo Detainees Arrive On U.S. Soil

Now, I know that liberals are terribly frustrated with the White House and Congress because they just can’t seem to make Gitmo close or keep gun-rights from expanding. Darn it…Washington is Democrat country! "We'll probably end up passing more gun bills than we did during the Republican administration," said Rep. Carolyn McCarthy, D-N.Y. "That is what surprises me." Well, don’t feel so bad, because if America is forced to receive any of the Guantanamo detainees you just might rest a little easier at night knowing Americans still have gun-rights! Some accuse President Obama and his cronies of being asleep at the wheel while Republicans raised fears about terrorist relocation in our backyard. Nancy Pelosi doesn’t want them on her turf either…even though she has the perfect facility for them…Alcatraz! -See my blog 1-27-09- America is a big place and protection is a daunting task…even for the Federal government. Why is it the founding fathers knew it, addressed it, and “penned it”…in the Constitution (Amendment II)…and the current leaders know it, address it, and dismiss it? Americans have a tendency to put even the most horrific events in their short-term memory. Unfortunately, national security is a long-term issue!

Note: If we don't take our freedoms seriously...our freedoms will be taken permanently.

May God bless America...and may America deserve it!

Zanne Booker 5-24-09

Memorial Day 2009

Memorial Day has become an all inclusive holiday, throughout the years, to honor the brave men and women who have died in America’s wars. Originally known as Decoration Day…it was a time designated to honor America’s Civil War dead. It became widely observed around May 30, 1868, with graves being decorated in commemoration. The federal government declared Waterloo, New York, the official birthplace of Memorial Day (in 1966) because it had been the first location to celebrate the day, one hundred years earlier. The townspeople of Waterloo closed businesses and the residents placed flowers and flags on the soldiers’ graves. Congress declared Memorial Day a national holiday (in 1971) to be observed the last Monday in May. Sometimes, Memorial Day is confused with Veterans Day which is celebrated on November 11th and honors all veterans, living and deceased. If you had to choose the most celebrated area for Memorial Day, it would have to be at Arlington National Cemetery where it is customary for either the president or vice-president to make a speech of gratitude…one honoring the fallen who have allowed America to remain free. Whether you visit one of the nation’s cemeteries, attend a church service, or simply go on a “day-off” outing…please take time out to remember those who paid the ultimate price for your liberty.

Note: Few wake up with a plan to be a hero; most start off with a plan to be a good person.

May God bless America…and may America deserve it.

Zanne Booker 5-23-09

Is A New Breed Of Voter On The Horizon?

Michael Steele (Chairman of the RNC) addressed a group about the direction of the Republican Party and slammed the President’s first one hundred plus days…just by stating the facts. He is trying to rally the GOP and bump up the numbers who are claiming affiliation with them. I wonder…could the previous and current White House Presidents be causing an exodus from political norms thus spawning a new breed of voter? As more and more constituents are distancing themselves from Bush and removing their Obama bumper stickers from their cars, just maybe the voter mentality is shifting to people who no longer want to be pigeonholed. It is not that they seek to vote as Independents, but rather vote independently. Perhaps they are seeing us go down an unprecedented path toward socialism (that is bordering on fascism) which is scaring even the Democrats who, by the way, are Republican allies. Now, Mr. Obama is indeed a mover and a shaker, however, his gyrations are leaving Americans practically paralyzed. Not only are we hanging on every vague and convoluted word coming out of Washington, but we are groping in the dark trying to find our way without clear guidelines…which are “key” to success. After all, any game needs rules and they cannot be constantly changing. Every time the President and his cronies close the door for a meeting…they emerge with our requirements for success increasingly skewed and less obtainable. Americans are consequently starting to feel like they have boarded the Titanic and that the Obama administration is busy making ice! Washington and Wall Street have screwed up the “good old days”, but we could have rallied in record time had Washington not tried to fix “everything”. They have gone from a mentality of Uncle Sam to one of Who’s Your Daddy! All I can say is that it is about time voters started feeling powerful after the election instead of for a fleeting moment at the voting booth. Washington politicians are making a big mistake looking down at those who raised them up. I will leave you with a quote from Mahatma Gandhi: First they ignore you. Then they laugh at you. Then they fight you. Then you win.

Note: When our “elected officials” are listening halfway they are hard of hearing. We are going to have to speak up!

May God bless America…and may America deserve it!

Zanne Booker 5/21/09

Foiled Release Of Afghanistan Photographs Gives Mixed Signals To Obama's Enraged Left Supporters

It looks like the liberals are getting a bitter taste of “transparency”. One week the President is giving the green light for the release of Pentagon photographs showing abuses of American held Afghanistan and Iraq detainees (in the name of transparency) and the next he is stopped at a self-imposed roadblock…even if he has to go to court! At first glance it seems to be all about national security. The question is why? But is the answer singular or plural? Let’s navigate through the quagmire, shall we? Some think it is not hard to state the answer. The graphic images of abuses at Abu Ghraib spawned the outrage heard round the world, rallied many extremist recruits, and left America’s image less than pristine. Supposedly these photos were not as “sensational” as the previous ones, however, they were noteworthy…enough for our leading military generals to stonewall release attempts. It is interesting that President Obama now feels that “national security trumps transparency”. Since transparency has not been this president’s hallmark, after taking office, maybe “public opinion trumped tyranny”. After all, he has ticked off the conservatives to the point of verbal rebellion (finally) and my guess is that he is trying to pit liberals and conservatives against each other to ease the flack flying his direction… a strategical quid pro quo. Recall that he was amiable to releasing the classified “torture memos” giving indepth details of interrogation procedures…right Nancy? Could Ms. Pelosi's sketchy recall be yet another cause for the photo-faux pas? Whatever President Obama’s reason(s)…he is compromising America’s security, endangering the lives of our troops in Iraq and Afghanistan (according to the US commanders), and providing transparency to the world that is not even available in our own nation…Why is that, Mr. President? The publication of the photos would make that charge seem more convincing. Not publishing them, and the accusation is less likely to stick. Jonathan Beale, BBC News, Washington. So Nancy Pelosi can breathe a short-lived sigh of relief. However, Democrats are taking a second look at her “prior knowledge".
Nancy...you cannot share the glory and not the blame.

Note: The truth is the truth...no matter who delivers it!

May God bless America...and may America deserve it!

Zanne Booker 5-19-09

Colin Powell Is No Longer A Republican...Get Over It!

As soon as we all get over the fact that Colin Powell is no longer a Republican, the better. Furthermore, the sooner we recognize that he is a socialist…well...you get my point.
SEAN HANNITY, HOST: And tonight in "Your America," well, apparently endorsing Barack Obama was not enough for the former secretary of state, Colin Powell. Now he is on the offensive against Republicans. No general ever went into battle half committed to the fray...and let's face it...THIS IS WAR! Just what is his mission? After all, no one ever goes into combat without a battle plan. Whatever his purpose, I am relieved that he has shown his colors and we can add one more to the confirmed list... whether it be ally or foe. That’s what bugged me about Arlen Specter. Alas, his flip-flop-flip has given him no more “flop options”. You know…Democrat-to-Republican-to-Democrat in one lifetime is pretty much the max. Now, back to the General. He was on my short list for a Presidential candidate, at one time. Condoleezza Rice and Herman Cain were my other two (of the top three). General Powell will always be remembered as one who gave us comfort and confidence in a time of confusion and chaos. Unfortunately now, he is giving us confusion and chaos in a time when we need comfort and confidence. General Powell, you are drawing a line in the sand which cannot be erased. Don’t think you can emulate Specter’s Spectrum. It leaves your credibility in question and I’m quite sure your view in the mirror distorted.

Note: You are for us until you are against us!

May God bless America...and may America deserve it!

Zanne Booker 05-13-09

Obama's Quest For Entitlement Over Work Ethic May Just Create A New Type Of Slavery!

Throughout America's history we have had a rather resilient past. However, we always had the capability to be rewarded with recovery through hard work and ingenuity. Continually we are seeing a trend toward equalizing everyone...their status, income, and entitlements. Millions of individuals are seeking it based on nothing more than desire and greed. They have not paid their dues through the proper channels of the dedication, deligence, and self-denial (in some cases of necessities) yet their flames of covetousness are being fueled by the very leaders of Congress (and the White House) who should be encouraging and rewarding the types of individuals they themselves "used" to emulate. Eventually, Congress will come to their senses and grow weary of the "do-littles" and the "do-nothings" and these individuals will become insignificant pawns in the game of life...the new generation of feudal serfs. Currently, WE THE PEOPLE are not "required" to watch this inequality movement...just requested. Get a backbone, will you?! Start becoming penpals with your nations leaders. You don't owe them any more or any less respect than the clerk behind the counter. They are servants of the people...that would be US! When elections roll around vote like your life depended upon it...certainly your livelihood does.

Note: Is Washington out of touch with reality...or are they all turning into sociopaths?

Sociopath: A person with antisocial personality disorder. Probably the most widely recognized personality disorder. A sociopath is often well liked because of their charm and high charisma, but they do not usually care about other people. They think mainly of themselves and often blame others for the things that they do. They have a complete disregard for rules and lie constantly. They seldom feel guilt or learn from punishments. Though some sociopaths have become murders, most reveal their sociopathy through less deadly and sensational means. http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=Sociopath

May God bless America...and may America deserve it!

Zanne Booker 5-13-09

Relay For Life...Cancer Does Not Discriminate.

This evening I walked the survivor lap for Relay For Life. It was my second cancer-free year and since my oncology doctor said that he would see me in four months, I was feeling particularly good about the day. I am not normally a weepy person, however, when I saw the number of individuals who were out there representing our small area of the globe and pondered the number of surgeries, chemotherapy experiences, and radiation sessions they represented...I was a bit teary-eyed. People stood on the sidelines clapping, cheering, and high-fiving us. It was touching. One teenage girl walked with several of her friends and I was jolted to see the word "survivor" on her T-Shirt, but it was unsettling to see the six-year-old boy who was being carried on his Daddy's shoulders the most. He too was a survivor. Cancer does not discriminate. As the evening wore on friends from my place of work gathered to share stories, eat pizza, and offer support. Researchers are diligently seeking cures and preventions for the myriad of cancer types that exist. With your help...progress is being made. I would just like to say...THANK YOU!

Note: Cancer does not have a political affiliation.

May God bless America...and may America deserve it.

Zanne Booker 5-08-09

Obama's Empathy Judge Could Have Lady Liberty Wiping Her Tears With Her Removed Blind-Fold

President Obama is trying to "monopolize" the Checks and Balance System. His party has the White House, Congress, and now they are doing something unthinkable...setting their sights on the Judicial System. Realize that the Supreme Court is the last hope for Americans to prevent Washington-based representatives from running amuck! WE THE PEOPLE...that would be Democrats, Republicans, and Independents alike...need to snap out of it! Freedom is slipping away while we sit complacent and silent. Lady Justice is a sword toting, scale bearing, blind-folded symbol of fair and equal justice. Her sword symbolizes that she stands capable to cut to the heart of the matter before her and execute justice. The scales show her ready to weigh the evidence presented while examining both the pro and cons. She is blind-folded so that no creed, color, or status can have the upper hand. All who enter the hallowed court should not feel that they do so at their own peril, but rather with confidence when RIGHT is on their side. If President Obama has his way, Lady Justice will be depicted with a sword, scales, and a removed blind-fold... which she is using to dry her tears.

Note: When JUSTICE is "for sale"...the LADY has no use for a scale.

May God bless America...and may America deserve it!

Zanne Booker 5-07-09

Specter's Spectrum

Senator Arlen Specter of Pennsylvania (former Republican) has swung to the other side of the political spectrum and morphed into…a Democrat. Americans have watched with amazement as he slinked over to the opposition’s side and voted with them well over fifty percent of the time, yet some still seem surprised. I for one am glad he has decided to end the charade and come out of the political closet. After all…he has gotten where he is today masquerading as an elephant when he is actually a…well…you know. Specter’s political career was waning as he faced trailing poll numbers (around 20 points). Competition was going to be fierce from individuals like Congressman Pat Toomey (real Republican) and so…he made a deal with the Democrats…which most likely includes funding from the Democratic coffers during his next election. WE THE PEOPLE are going to have to keep our eye on the ball during the next election…if there is one. We are dangerously close to a filibuster proof Congress and our last line of defense just may be the United States Supreme Court…which sits silently watching until we approach the bench.

Note: When the odds seem stacked against you…go around the stack.

May God bless America…and may America deserve it!

Zanne Booker 4-28-09

Don't Allow The Tea Parties To Return To The Back Burner!

With the TEA PARTIES still etched in the memories of millions I have a question for the millions. What have you done post-party? When a tea kettle comes to a boil it whistles and draws attention. Have we removed it from the burner only to find it cooling and virtually silent? WE THE PEOPLE have a two party system which is made up of problematic politicians who are either too corrupt or too fearful to make the “right” decisions for their constituents…Americans who stand for freedom and decency. In these times, when the pillars of society are crumbling around us, we hope for someone with wisdom to take the lead. I started writing this blog back in September, when the AIG debacle made my blood pressure rise. It was either vent or take medication. This blog was one of the ways I chose to get involved. The more Americans participate, the better their chances to get America “BACK ON TRACK”! Currently, many are all floundering only because there is not an officially ordained “GO-TO-GUY”, someone who will be the voice for the masses who see all too well the big bleak picture. I have a news flash…We all have to be leaders now! You can and must be the catalyst for reform according to your talents and on whatever scale you feel most comfortable, however, don’t feel like you cannot venture out of your comfort zone! And please, don’t sell your talents short. Some people plan for their leadership roles; others are thrust into their positions. Governor Mike Huckabee may not have been the President this go-round, but he is primed and ready to be the voice of reason with the media coverage to back it. That does not let Americans off the hook. If you cannot lead then try writing…which is merely another form of leading. On the most basic level…become “pen pals” with your congressional representatives and encourage your friends, neighbors, and relatives to do the same. When dealing with Congress…Don’t let one note be all she wrote!

The following are the website for congressional delegates:
To write your U.S. Representative https://writerep.house.gov/writerep/welcome.shtml
To write your U.S. Senator http://www.senate.gov/

Note: When dealing with Congress…Don’t let one note be all she wrote!

May God bless America…and may America deserve it!

Zanne Booker 4-27-09

With Regard To Interrogation Techniques...Pelosi Can't Take Credit And Not Take Blame

Nancy, Nancy, Nancy...You cannot be a tigress one minute and reduce yourself to a kitten the next. Everyone in Washington knows that you have your heavy-hand in all major workings of the nation, so do not try to pull the innocent (uninformed) victim routine, with regard to interrogation tactics shortly after 9-11. You were briefed...for an hour! A Washington Post article written in 2007 (December) had quotes from two officials saying that you and three other lawmakers received briefing on interrogation tactics...which included water-boarding. The Post article did note that there were strict rules during secret briefings (I’m assuming this was one) prohibiting lawmakers from taking notes or seeking legal advice because it could hinder lawmakers’ challenges to information they are being presented—interrogation tactics in this case. Never are lawmakers prohibited from asking vital questions. Hedging, you implied that the briefing could have been incomplete. Pelosi: We only know what they choose to tell us, and the manner and timing which they tell us.” Are you saying that with a straight face? I’ll repeat myself… Never are lawmakers prohibited from asking vital questions. We were at war on our soil. They had just killed or injured a multitude of U.S. citizens. Did you think we were only going to send the terrorists to bed without supper? "I saw a partial list of the number of members of the House and Senate, Democrats and Republicans, who were briefed on these interrogation methods, and not a word was raised at the time, not one word," said House Minority Leader, John Boehner, on Thursday. Ah...the selective recollection of the Democrats. But why all of the Republican fuss? The “selective-service” Democrats are now “OPEN” to investigating...and possibly prosecuting...lawyers and officials who were involved in the harshly choreographed interrogation techniques. Nancy, you can’t share in the credit and not share in the blame. Now, in your defense…this decision saved further American lives from being lost and gave insight into future acts of violence. Its outcome instilled confidence in Americans who were shaken or shattered while we sifted through rubble for the dead and battered. Believe it or not…the majority of Americans will support you on this one. Don’t back down just so critics will back off!

Note: There is only one way to win a war...decisively.

May God bless America…and may America deserve it!

Zanne Booker 04-24-09

Our Second Amendment Right...The Right To Bear Arms!

What exactly does the 2nd Amendment say? It reads as follows: A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed. A militia is a nation’s military force composed of citizens called forth to execute the laws of the Union, suppress insurrection, and repel invasion. By definition the word infringe means to encroach upon in such a way that it violates the law or the rights of any individual(s). Encroachment occurs when either by gradual increments or by stealth one acquires the possession(s) or right(s) of any individual(s). In order to gain clarification we must look to the past...to the birth of the U.S. Constitution and our Bill of Rights. James Madison is considered by historians to be the “Father of the Constitution”…and less well known…a major promoter of the Bill of Rights. Madison had vowed to push for a bill of rights while campaigning against James Monroe for the newly formed United States House. He announced to Congress on May 4, 1789, of his intentions to formally introduce the topic on May 25th. Unfortunately, Congress was debating import duties (taxes) on that calendar date so he waited until June 8th. His presentation was blocked by other members of Congress who felt there were other, more important matters to address. Madison undeterred, rose from his seat and presented his list of amendments to Congress anyway. Now, let’s switch gears. No one wants to think about the term “urban warfare”, warfare conducted in towns and cities. That was exactly how our nation was born back in the Revolutionary War era and that could very well be the way we will hold on to our nation down the road. Throughout history many nations have had conflict in their homelands, but Americans are, for some reason, oblivious to the possibility. Pearl Harbor, 9-11, and now the borders of Mexico should be enough to keep us historically vigilant. Unfortunately, many U.S. citizens could see foreign troops marching down the streets and taking over our towns and simply look puzzled before they continued with their morning activities. We must ask ourselves… Could we do anything if a siege attempt happened? Well, how bad do you want your freedom? WE THE PEOPLE could (one day) have to make a split-second decision to get involved and not just wait for the military to swoop in and save us. This is a big country and they can’t be everywhere! If we were taken hostage at a bank or on a cruise ship we would not have a SWAT team or a military battalion right there…we would have to fend for ourselves until help arrived. Let’s look to history for a worse case scenario. When Hitler invaded Leningrad (Operation Barbarossa) urban warfare lasted approximately 900 days and was long, destructive, and unsuccessful. Yes, unsuccessful because civilians took up arms and to the streets to fight side-by-side with their military. How bad did they want their freedom? Currently, the border with Mexico and the United States is teetering on the brink of catastrophe with drug cartel wars, kidnappings, drug smuggling, and illegal alien trafficking occurring daily. Don’t be lulled into a false sense of security by those who think the government should tell “law abiding” citizens to give up their weapons; then only the undesirables will have them. We need to think seriously about our 1st Amendment Rights “before” we are forced to defend them…or lose them.

Note: Gun control is in the eye of the beholder…and I’m beholding to no one.

May God bless America…and may America deserve it!

Zanne Booker 4-14-09