Recent Fitness Results

Now getting back to the real reason this blog was created - a way of tracking my fitness goals.  We went in for our 3rd measurements since starting our personal training program on August 10, 2009.  Our latest results:

Myself:

• Another 8 pounds lost
• Another 3 pounds of muscle gained
• Lost an additional 2% of body fat.
• Overall (16 weeks):
• lbs lost: 20
• Inches lost: 3
• % of Body fat: 3 

This makes since May 2, 2009 a total of 40 pounds lost. I still kick myself for not doing this sooner. Its been a struggle since I have been back in NJ since we have great food back home.  But so far its working, being smart on ordering when eating out, and eating correctly when at home.  Reading nutrition labels when shopping.  All of this was a learned process, not something that came naturally.  And while results are slow and steady, at least its in a healthy manner.

A post from December 16 2009

Stimulus Bill Pork spending: - House approves 447 billion spending measure.

• $54 Million dollars for a CA Wine Train
• $2.2 Million dollars for Failing golf course in San Francisco, CA
• $1.5 Million dollars for Fossil research in Argentina (Not even spent in the US)
• $750k for puppet shows and clown theaters
• $400k for malt liquor and marijuana journals
• $200k for college hook up study
• $500k for facebook study
• $220k for rats and bird study and ant division of labor

When is enough, enough.  Does the American people even know about this? Check out even more below:

• "Obama spokesman said while there maybe be a few unwise programs out there but its small in comparison to 50k new programs approved"
• New omnibus spending bill is over 2400k
• Republicans slide in more pork barrel spending
• 7 million jobs lost since resession started in 2007 - 4 million since Obama took office
• Before Obama one employee making 170k in Department of transportaion. Today 1,671 employees
• Average government employee 71k.  Average private sector: 40k
• 1,700 employees got raises in the FAA, but they want to restrict private CEOs.

Congress just passed bill that would give power to congress to break up companies that threaten and are a danger to the economy.

Enivormental Protection Agency:

• EPA rules CO2 must be regulated and considered dangerous.
• EPA clean water restoration ACT: Control all waters in the United States would be in violation of interstate commerce laws.

Thanksgiving...

This was the first Thanksgiving that I did not spend with my immediate family in New Jersey.  First we watched the Holiday Parade from the bottom of our Loft complex as they lined up at the beginning right outside our place.  Of course people were bundled up for the 45+ degree day, me being fresh from NJ/NYC - wore basketball shorts and a T-shirt.  I got some strange looks.  The parade was disappointing, I must say.  I am used to the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade in NYC.  This was only a 45 minute parade.  Sure it ended with Santa Clause, but where was the big balloons, the broadway show numbers, the celeberties?  I guess that may come in time, but being this was the 50th annual edition, I dont think it will change much.

Where did I spend Thanksgiving? Well a few months ago I got in contact with my cousin Cathy.  She is a cousin from my mother's Puerto Rican side that I had not met prior to Turkey Day.  Her Father Carlos is my mother's nephew (just so you get an idea on the relation).  They live out in the "Hill Country" of Texas - New Braunfels.

The drive wasn't bad, about 2.5 hours from our loft apartment downtown.  The food was good, a mix of Puerto Rican food with traditional American Thanksgiving food.  I am not sure my wife understood the white rice with turkey, but I had to explain white rice to the Spanish is what pasta is to Italians, its a staple and can be added to almost everything.  It was great to catch up with family I had not seen in some 15 plus years.  I hope we can stay in touch more often.

On the back, we passed the Katy Mills Outlet mall around 2AM Friday.  I have never seen the mall as packed as I did on this day.  It was crazy...just tells me people are willing to shop at any given hour for a good sale.

News from the Holiday Weekend...

Reality TV Show couple breaks into the White House:

• The wife – Michaele Salahi is scheduled to appear in Bravo TV’s Real Housewives of DC.
• While not invited, the couple went through the same security checks as the rest of the guests, so the politicians were not in immediate danger.
• Comments: Begs the question, who let them in? There is a similar story in a favorite movie of mine – National Treasure 2: Book of Secrets. If this couple can get to the president, you can bet the terrorists are watching and taking notes. The guest list does not include any anti-Obama people. If MSNBC, CBS, etc was there…where was the representatives from Fox News?

Charges in St. Louis SEIU Incident:

• Finally charges in the SEIU incident where SEIU members attacked an African-American republican.
• Comments:Why did mainstream media run the story the day after thanksgiving? Did anyone watch? If must have been between the half time shows.  Another straw in the Chicago style of politics of the current administration.

Dubai financially melts down over the weekend.

 

Health Care Bill:

• Michael Cannon at the Cato Institute, states the actual cost of the New Health Care is 6 trillion dollars not 1 trillion as stated by the current session of congress.
• The fact that the Abortion clause is in Health Care Bill (Overton window), to me states congress wants us focus on just the abortion part of the bill, when we should be debating the bill in the first place.
• The state of Kansas is stating Abortion is a necessary mental health issue – for the long term mental health of the mother.  Perhaps its my catholic upbringing and current Chirstian views
• Death Panels – remember when conservatives were crazy for thinking and stating they exist…how about the story that ran on 60 minutes

Global Climate Scandal:

• Bill Clinton – “Global Warming will make some places colder” What was that Mr. President?
• Climate changes happen over a millennia.
• The UN is standing firm and state that a few people cannot influence the climate data alone.
• All the raw data has been destroyed during the “process” regarding climate-gate. Why cant anyone see the government is playing games. NASA climatologists used November data for October to state coldest October on record.
• Democrat Senator Daniel Akaka (Hawaii) admits there is nothing in the US Constitution that gives congress the authority to make individuals purchase health care.
• Comments: What happens when Climate-gate is fully exposed? Both republicans and democrats will be in real trouble for spending the country into debt for a fraud. The scientific community will be discredited. What’s left of the main stream journalism will be discredited. Who is left to believe in?

Cop Killer in Washington State:

• Maurice Clemmons shot dead on November 30, 2009 after killing four police officers and starting a 2 day man-hunt.
• Former Governor Mike Huckabee (Arkansas) released a statement regarding suspect killing 4 police officers in Washington State.
• States fault is with the Justice System.
• Comments:  I can respect Mike Huckabee's views on being a compassionate Christian (being a Christian myself).  However, I feel it is one thing to forgive a person of their sins but its another to forgive a man's debt to society.  Especially a man with a violent past and a 95 year jail sentence with was given by a jury of his peers.  These four police officers died a needless death.  May they rest in peace.

Navy Seals being Brought up on Charges:

• SO-2 Matthew McCabe is facing three charges:
• Dereliction of performance of duty for willfully failing to safeguard a detainee
• Making a false official statement
• Assault
• SO-2 Jonathan Keefe is facing two charges:
• Dereliction of performance of duty
• Making a false official statement
• SO-1 Julio Huertas is facing three charges:
• Dereliction of performance of duty
• Making a false official statement
• Impediment of an investigation
• These Navy Seals being court-martialed (at their request) because during an arrest of a high profile terrorist in Afghanistan because the terrorist complained of brutality (a fat lip – that’s it).
  
• Original recommended procedure was Admiral Mass (without the chain of command).
• Comments: This could be a fall out from the marines killing the Somalian pirates. How about we let the Pentagon run the war NOT the White House or Congress. My father (Korean War Veteran PFC Army) would be rolling over in his grave if he knew what congress was doing.  To me this is further evidence that the current administration is hell bent on putting George Bush and his administration on trial.

Glenn Beck:

• London times stated that Glenn Beck’s past is so bad, it is almost unbelievable. 
• Speaking of Beck, turns out that advertising protest that ColorofChange.org was pushing isn't quite having the effect it had hoped. 

Herman Van Rumpuy:

• Recently elected new European Union President
• States: “2009 also the first year of the first year of global governance”. Watch for yourself!
• Comments: Of course people who have been saying this was going to happen were viewed as crazy, but every day there is more and more evidence.  How much more do we need before the media and people start to believe?

 Seven Stories that Barrack Obama does not want told: (Politico)

• Everyone thinks he is playing with monopoly money
• President is emotionless
• Playing hardcore Chicago politics
• Plays to the crowd and a pushover
• Feels the USA is nothing special, just another country in the UN roll call
• President Pelosi
• Celebutante

American more Tolerant?

You have all heard the news that America needs to be more tolerant of Muslims and we need to be more like our European counterpart, like France. Turns our in a recent survey, America is actually more tolerant then the “Enlightened Europeans”.  Here is the proof as provided by the Pew Global Attitudes Project.

• Negative Views of Jews
• 46% of Spain
• 25% of Germany
• 33% of France - 33%
• USA – 11%
• Negative views of Muslims
• Spain – 52%
• Germany 50%
• Poland 46%
• France 38%
• Russia 32%
• England 23%
• USA – 23% (and we are the ones who were attacked)
• Did I mention that now in Switzerland that they have banned all Muslim buildings?
• Interesting isn’t it? Where is the mainstream media on this one. That’s right, we are still the bad guys and must be destroyed.

New York Times:

 

Will not release emails that were stolen regarding Climate-gate yet, when Newt Gingrich’s cell phone conversation was tapped illegally, the NY Times published his personal phone calls. Interesting.

 

Senator Kent Conrad (D – North Dakota)

• States that Americans who disagree with Eric Holder should leave the country.

ACORN:

• Eric Holder (The Justice Department) states the Obama administration can lawfully pay the community group, ACORN for services provided under contract. Interesting that President Obama signed into law a spending bill that included a provision that no taxpayer money (including money authorized by previous legislation) could be provided to said group or its affiliates.

Decision on Afghanistan:

• President Obama is going to announce his decision on Afganistan at West Point.
• 117 US troops died since the request for reinforcements was placed on the President's desk for review.

Jon Corzine

• Incumbent democrat who lost in the election for Governor of New Jersey.
• Spent a total of 131 million dollars on his three campaigns.

Move-On.org:

• Not too happy with the President's decision on the war in Afghanistan

The Times We Live In...

I recently came across this article the other day on gather.com.  It was written by Patrick Samuels.  It got me really thinking, what have we done with our country - where we have ordinary citizens talking about suceding from the Union.

From what I was able to look up via the internet, where I currently reside in the state of Texas - There is nothing in the State Constitution of Texas that would prevent secession.  In fact it states "Texas is a free and Independent state, subject only to the Constitution of the United States."  Sure the constitution was written in 1876 and has been amended quite often, but the under lying message is there.  To the Federal Government - Hands off Texas!

Personally I feel this might be the only way to get the attention of our federal government.  We have peacefully protested in Washington, DC and at our representatives offices.  We have made millions of phone calls, and sent millions more in email communications.  Yet the government continues in a direction they see fit.  The last time I checked, the federal government worked for the people.  You take Alaska and Texas out of the union, and the country is in trouble.  Both states have the trading partners and the economy to sustain a long term independence.  I cannot speak for President Obama, but I cannot see him handling this situation well either.  The way I see it, this country is on a collision course to re-set itself.  Where will you stand when this happens?

Will it take another Civil War in America to stop this maddness?  I sure hope it doesn't come to that.  But with such strong opposition to Government run Universal Health Care or Cap and Trade Bill and the government's position to keep moving forward, I am not sure what else there is to do.  We could replace everyone in the House and Senate in the elections in 2010, but would that really change anything?  I am starting to think there is such an infectious disease in Washington, DC that anyone that is fresh and new, gets caught up in the corruption that the liberal based media refuses to acknowledges.  Does Glenn Beck have the answer?  I don't know.  But I tell you one thing, he seems to be the only person willing to stand up and try. The American people are looking for a leader and we have none in Washington currently. I know I will be one of the millions that attend these Glenn Beck town halls that he is planning next year.  And my wife and I will try our best to make it to Washington, DC on August 28, 2010.

Yet the Health Care Bill Marches On...

Most talked about taxes in Senate Health Bill:

• Individual Mandate Tax (would start in 2014):
• Income surcharge tax if you don’t have government approved health care.
• Capped at 8% of your income.
• Employer Mandate Tax (p348):
• At least 50 employees and does not offer health care coverage
• $750 non-deductable tax for all full time employees if you have one qualifying employee
• Excise Tax on Comprehensive Health Insurance plans
• Would start in 2013
• Your employer would have a 40% tax on Cadillac Health Insurance Plans
• If you health insurance is worth more then $8,500 for individual and $23,000 for family plans
• 2013-2015 17 highest cost states would be above this threshold (127%).
• Employer reporting tax on W2
• Medicine Cabinet Tax (P 1097 section 9003)
• No longer allowed to use Health Savings accounts and Flexible Spending Accounts on pre-tax dollars on medication
• Except Insulin
• HSA Withdrawal Tax
• Raising tax from 10% to 20% for early withdrawals
• FSA Cap:
• Currently unlimited – bill would cap this at $2,500.
• Excise Tax on Charitable Hospitals
• $50,000 per hospital if they fail to meet new community assessment need.
• Business MISC 1099 Reporting
• Compliance burden on small businesses
• 2.3 billion annual tax on industry for innovative drug companies imposed on the relative sales posted for that year
• 2 billion annual tax on medical device manufacturing imposed on the relative sales posted for that year
• Exempts items less then $100
• Tax on Health Insurance (3rd page of Quick Summary)
• Eliminate tax deduction for employer provided prescription drug coverage of Medicare part D
• Raise haircut for medical itemized deductions from 7.5% to 10%. Will be waved for people age 65+ but only years 2013-2016.
• $500,000 annual compensation limit for health care executives
• Hike in Medicare payroll tax (First $200,000 of salary):
• Current: Employee 1.50% / Employer 1.45% / Self Employment 2.9%
• In Health Care Bill: Employee 1.45% / Employer 1.90% / Self-Employed 3.4%
• New Rate increases not tax deductable
• 5% Excise tax on cosmetic medical procedures.

Latest statistics show that small businesses represent 70% of all jobs in the United States.  Why is congress trying to destroy this system?

It would take 145 years and 100% of the profit from the fortune 500 companies (based on 2008 figures) to pay off our current debt in principle only.  That figure does not include the interest payments.

The US Government has 4 separate account books.  Why doesn't anyone talk about this so call accounting practices.

Our real national debt is 106 trillion dollars or $343,000 per living citizen in the United States. When China stops buying our debt - then what do we do Mr. President, what shall we do then?

The Ugly Truth...

Daily President Obama Soup:

• Believes in a harsh penalty if you choose not to buy health insurance. He compares health insurance to car insurance.  So when specifically asked about jail time, he supports harsh penalties. Please see below:

• The President bows to the Japanese emperor.
• The White House press secretary states is protocol
• Japanese custom states the lower you bow the more of an “apology”.
• Teddy Roosevelt said “If I should see another king, I shall bite him”.
• Thou shall not bow protocol of the State Department – been in place for 200 years.
• It was not a bow, bow if you know what I mean ambassador to Japan said.
• President Clinton was the only President to break the tradition since George Washington.
  
• The President returned England's gift to the United States (given to us after 9/11) - which was a bust of Winston Churchill.
• 
  
  The First Lady pats the Queen of England on the back?
  
  
  
• 
  
  President Obama’s choice for Chief of Protocol, Capricia Marshall blames not paying taxes on the Washington, DC Post Office...and then her husband.
  
  
  
• 
  
  President Obama lifted the ban on HIV positive people coming into the United States which was put into place by Bush.
  
• President Obama continues to delay on a decision in Afganastan.  I will continue to shout "Give them what they need or bring them home."
  
• President Obama continues to delay the federal investigation into Ft. Hood.  Here's an idea, lets give the families some closure.  I really hope one of the mothers of the fallen heroes slaps him across the face.  That's what he needs.
  
  
  

I am getting the idea that anything to do with President George Bush, he is doing the opposite.  I am getting the feeling he is just into the average American person.


Daily SEIU Soup:

• George Soros funded SOS project: To put a SEIU friendly Secretary of State in each of the 50 states.
• SEIU makes a movie entitled "Labour Day"
• It details how the union got the current President of the United States elected and what can the union expect to get back from the President in return.
• Only played in Artsy liberal theaters on October 30, 2009
• SEIU goes after Eagle Scout who cleaned up bike/walking trail, who has spent 200 hours in his pursuit of his job. Local representative Nick Balzano stated “Only union members are allowed to pick up in that area, and will look into the Boy or Cub scout responsible.”
• SEIU is the only union to be sued by another union.

Anyone else see a problem here?  Are they the "muscle arm" of President Obama's agenda?

Health Care Bill:

• AARP is a strong proponent of the bill.  Why? Hmmm it appears that AARP sells GAP insurance for anything not covered by Medicaid or Medicare and would stand to make millions if this bill should pass in the Senate.
• Why haven't we heard from any trial lawyers on this topic, either for or against the bill?  Even after a deal was brokered to get rid of private insurance within 5 to 10 years?
• Turns out in the bill, Lawyers are now able to sue for pain and suffering if coverage is denied by an inusrance company.
• As written in the current bill, current private insurance will be grandfathered without taxes for 5 year grace period.  However if any changes are made - such as a change in deductable or primium price, individuals are then kicked out of the private health plan and flipped into the government plan.

Doesn't sound like there are any positives to this plan what so ever.  Not to mention the real price tag of 3 trillion dollars.  Please no one tell Obama what comes after a Trillion, please!!!!

9/11 Trial in NYC:

• Since George Washington, we have never tried Acts of War in a criminal court. It was always tried in a Military Tribunal Court. The current administration is trying to put the Bush Administration on trial and destroy the CIA. It’s a slap in the face. What if the terrorist on trial is set free?  Here's how it could realistically happen
• The terrorist's lawyer is looking into whether the confession has legal standing that he was the mastermind of 9/11 because of torture.
• I seem to recall 90% of the people in this country telling our CIA to do what is necessary to get information and get justice.  You cannot have buyer's remorse.  You have to live with the consequences of your actions.  Personally I felt safer knowing we are getting this information.  I don't care how it is obtained and frankly neither should anyone else.
• If the confession is thrown out, what supporting documentation can be used to indict the suspect?
• And if there is reasonable doubt, he would have to be acquitted and therefore cannot be tried for the same crime twice.
• Not to mention all of the Department of Intelligence, CIA and FBI techniques would be revealed.
• The trial could go on for years costing the tax payers millions of dollars and tying up the court system.  Not to mention it would be a circus atmosphere.
•  Cloward and Piven strategy to collapse the system from within...this would flood the court system of New York sending a ripple effect.
• What precidents will be set during this trial? Will they benefit anyone?

Chuck Schumer blames Texas for Ft. Hood shooting, a lapse in gun control

Oh President Obama...We are watching

This video just leaves me speechless...self-explanitory.



It would be nice if the President of the United States of America, stops bowing and apologizing for past mistakes.  We bow to NO ONE.  Oh and while you are over in Japan, could we make a decision on Afganastan?  Its been over 100 days and our men and women are still dying.  When is enough, enough?

States in Trouble

Recently I was reading across this list of information from CNN and MSN.

States that will go bankrupt shortly:

• New York – should be bankrupt by Christmas
• California has struggled immensely from the housing meltdown, and state lawmakers face voter-imposed restrictions, including requirements that all budgets and tax increases pass the Legislature by a two-thirds majority.
• Arizona's lawmakers relied on one-time fixes to balance the state's budget instead of making long-term changes.
• Rhode Island faces the highest unemployment rate and the highest home foreclosure rate in New England. It also has high taxes and lacks high-tech jobs.
• Michigan has been slammed by the meltdown of the U.S. auto industry, which has lost thousands of jobs.
• Oregon's leading industries, including timber and computer-chip manufacturing, have been hit by the recession, and the state relies on a voter-imposed revenue cap, which forces the state to give taxpayer rebates when times are good but leaves it unprepared in bad times.
• Nevada has been hit by the downturn in consumer spending, which has weighed heavily on its gaming and tourism industries. Nevada is one of five states without a personal or corporate income tax , so it relies mostly on taxes from gaming and sales to finance most services.
• Florida's population is shrinking for the first time since World War II, and the Sunshine State has long banked on people moving there. Constitutional amendments passed by voters also tie the hands of budget makers.
• New Jersey has dealt with budget troubles for years. It has the highest property taxes in the nation and has increased sales and personal income taxes to help boost revenue. The financial market meltdown is also pressuring the state.
• Illinois' budget gap for fiscal 2010 was one of the three biggest in the country at $13.2 billion. The Land of Lincoln has run deficits every year since the last recession in 2001 and borrows to pay off its bills.
• Wisconsin has been hit hard by the decline in manufacturing as a result of the recession.

The 10 states account for more than one-third of the U.S. population and economic output, according to the report.

How's that socialism working out for your state? Aren't you glad we passed that 1 trillion dollar stimulus package that we needed by 7pm or we would be bankrupt?

I personally am happy to be living in Texas at this time.  It is one of the healthest states fiscially at the moment and one of the lowest jobless rates in the nation...must be doing something right here.  Perhaps its the lower cost of living? Maybe...Perhaps it's the slightly higher sales tax (8.25%)-could be...I think it might be the no state income tax...ding ding ding, we have a winner.

The long weekend...

Today is Sunday and after my usual Friday off, its the worse day of the week for me.  I know what comes tomorrow - Monday.  Not that Mondays are bad for me, its just the waking up after a nice weekend with the wife that's the killer.  It was a pretty slow weekend here: dinner at Chilie's on Friday night where I had their new and improved fire grilled chicken quesadillas with a side of Mexican rice.  I washed that down with a Strawberry Mojito (Man, I loves those).  Saturday was our Body Combat class at Body 3 Fitness and my wife went to the Nutcracker Market at Reliant Center here in Houston with her best friend.  Not that I would not have gone, but that's more of a chick thing.  Let them have a good time out.  For dinner we went out for steak - I know where in Houston can't you get steak.  We went to Saltgrass where I had the 12 oz sirlion steak with a baked potato, house salad with vinergrette dressing and finished it off by splitting a piece of cheese cake.  Sunday was church and food shopping...man I am getting old.

November 11 - News Points

Recently I made the decision to make this blog public, and by public I mean posting the link to my facebook page.  This was a huge step for me.  I still dont think there is anyone who wants to hear what I have to say, but guess what I really dont care.  This is all about me anyway :) Anyway back to the news that the mainstream media will NOT cover.

Ft. Hood shooter:

• White house not able to share information with the ranking republican (Peter Hoekstra) member of House intelligence committee.
• Required by law to inform on a timely basis of national security matters
• Whitehouse has information regarding Islamic contacts, mosque and the FBI was following the domestic terrorist since 2008.
• President Obama stated we should not jump to conclusions – but had information that states the contrary.  Funny thing though...remember this? When President Obama stated while he did not have all the facts the Cambridge Police acted stupidly.
• Compare how much conviction conveyed during that press conference with the press conference for the Ft. Hood shooting.  Does something seem wrong to you...I know it does to me.
• Let’s call it what it is. If it looks like a duck and sounds like a duck – well you get the idea. This was a planned terrorist attack. To call it anything less is just a disgrace to the men & women who died at Ft. Hood.

Chris Matthews:

• Stated on his show “Hardball” that its not illegal to call Al-Qaeda is it?  I dont know about you...I am sure questions would have been raised if in 1940's people made phone calls to Hilter or his Army.  Maybe it's just me.

Global Warming:

• 3rd coldest October in recorded history.  So again, gotta save those Polar Bears dont we.

President Obama:

• Fired Susan Crawford – Internet Czar. She is behind Net Neutrality.  Don't worry it was another in the middle of the night removal we have come to expect from our "transparent" President.
• I still cannot forgive the President for giving a shout out before addressing a national tragedy.
• Speaking of which, Did President Obama's speech to the Native American's sound familiar.  It did to me.  Check out this video of Van Jones.  I thought he was out of the White House? Hmmm, I guess I was hoping for some change.

Anita Dunn

• White House Communications Director
• Will step down at the end of the month.

US Homeland Security Secretary

• Went to the Middle East to console the Muslim community.

Congressman Barney Frank:

• His partner was arrest for pot in 2007 – however he was not
• Was on front porch in Maine when police found marijuana plants outside.
• Frank did not have an idea of what was happening.
• Would not be able to recognize a pot plant because he is not an outdoorsman.

Eric Holder:

• United States Attorney General
• US Department of Justice – Grand Jury subpoena demanded all IP traffic to and personal information from website to be disclosed:
• SSN
• Banks Accounts
• E-mail addresses
• IP Addresses
• Physical Addresses
• Credit Cards
• Placed gag order on indymedia.us not to mention probe was going on.
• Issued by US Attorney Tim Morrison – Indiana
• Fed representative – “I didn’t think we are doing anything to warrant national attention”
• What is Eric Holder really after?

And to leave you with a quote from a radical - Benjamin Franklin "To get people out of poverty, make them uncomfortable in poverty”.  You think its time to overhaul the system and stop this maddness of entitlement from the government?

Health Care Bill

As many of the citizens know, the Health Care Bill cleared a first major huddle in the law process by just passing in the House. There are now 220 targets that the American people are going after to "fire" you in 2010. Yeah good luck with that. Here are a few snippets from the Health Care Bill that are a little concerning to say the least (Yes I read some parts of this Bill as I liked to be informed. That's more then I can say for the House Representatives):

• Page 111 - Section 223 establishes a new board of federal bureaucrats (the “Health Benefits Advisory Committee”) to dictate the health plans that all individuals must purchase. Comment: Of course this almost certainly will make the insurance companies go out of business. How many times can the new sources state this - this means you will be "nudged" into a government run health plan
• Page 211 - Section 321 establishes a new government-run health plan that, according to non-partisan actuaries at the Lewin Group, would cause as many as 114 million Americans to lose their existing coverage.
• Page 297 - Section 501 imposes a 2.5 percent tax on all individuals who do not purchase “bureaucrat-approved” health insurance - the tax would apply on individuals with incomes under $250,000, thus breaking a central promise of then-Senator Obama’s presidential campaign. Comments: Say what you will about 250k salary, its not what it seems like. You almost cannot live in NYC with that kind of income. My wife and I have over 120k combined income and because of federal taxes, we are still living check to check. This will just hurt the middle class, if there is a middle class left.

Do you believe Pelosi and Obama when they say “if you like your plan you can keep your plan” … that you ultimately won’t be forced to live with government-run insurance? I know I do not believe anything that comes out of their mouths.

Check out this provision…

• Page 94 - Section 202(c) prohibits the sale of private individual health insurance policies, beginning in 2013, forcing individuals to purchase coverage through the federal government. Comments: Where is the media coverage about this. Oh that's right - David Axlerod told the media not to act like Fox News and report the stories.

Of course, Members of Congress and their family members need not worry about how this radical overhaul of our nation's health care will affect them because...

• Page 225 - Section 330 permits—but does not require —Members of Congress to enroll in government-run health care. Comments: I beg everyone to ask their reprsentatives and congressmen if they would enroll themselves in the government plan.

Here Are A Few More Little Nasties In Pelosi’s H.R. 3962.

• Page 110 - Section 222(e) requires the use of federal dollars to fund abortions through the government-run health plan—and, if the Hyde Amendment were ever not renewed, would require the plan to fund elective abortions. Comments: You know what that means? Chrstian/Baptist/Catholic run hospitals would be forced to close down, meaning even less healthcare out there. I am not going to tell you where to stand on abortion as its a decision each person will have to make, but You have to face your maker in the end and be accountable for you actions. Having said that, I do not want my tax dollars going to pay for such a thing.
• Page 313 - Section 512 imposes an 8 percent “tax on jobs” for firms that cannot afford to purchase “bureaucrat-approved” health coverage; according to an analysis by Harvard Professor Kate Baicker, such a tax would place millions “at substantial risk of unemployment”—with minority workers losing their jobs at twice the rate of their white counterparts.
• Page 336 - Section 551 imposes additional job-killing taxes, in the form of a half-trillion dollar “surcharge,” more than half of which will hit small businesses; according to a model developed by President Obama’s senior economic advisor, such taxes could cost up to 5.5 million jobs.
• Page 520 - Section 1161 cuts more than 150 billion from Medicare Advantage plans, potentially jeopardizing millions of seniors’ existing coverage. Comments: Where is the senior outrage?! It's just aweful that the AARP is in support of the Health Care Bill. While it does not suprise me, I wonder what was the trade off?
• Page 733 - Section 1401 establishes a new Center for Comparative Effectiveness Research; the bill includes no provisions preventing the government-run health plan from using such research to deny access to life-saving treatments on cost grounds, similar to Britain’s National Health Service, which denies patient treatments costing more than 35,000. Comments: I wonder if all those children who come to the US for charity care work (You know you have seen the TLC and Discovery specials), if they will still come after all this?

And last, but certainly not least:

• Page 1174 - Section 1802(b) includes provisions entitled 'Taxes On Certain Insurance Policies' to fund comparative effectiveness research, breaking Speaker Pelosi’s promise that 'We will not be taxing benefits in any bill that passes the House,' and the President’s promise not to raise taxes on families with incomes under 250,000.

This is not to mention the fact failure to pay such a tax could lead to five year prision terms and fines up to $250,000.

If this bill passes and is signed into law by President Obama, I will almost bet the house that a revolution will insue. History will repeat itself, and when you children ask where were you, what will you tell them?

Elections in the News...

My apologies for not writing in some time.  It has been a hectic week to say the least. 

NY District 23 Race:

• Democrat Bill Owens wins.
• Withing 24 hours of taking office, he breaks 4 crutial campaign promises.
• Republicans spent almost 1 million dollars to destroy Doug Hoffman
• Democrats spent 2 million dollars to destroy Hoffman
• Democrats are screaming failure of tea party
• 8 weeks ago Hoffman was an unknown accountant.
• Hoffman makes the Republican drop out.
• Republican and Democrat double team and win by only 3 percentage points – Can you imagine Hillary Clinton supporting John McCain?
• So really, is this a complete failure?  If you combine the republican vote with the conservative vote, Bill Owns would have lost by 3 percentage points.

NYC Mayoral Race:

• Incumbent Mayor Michael Bloomberg wins re-election.
• Bloomberg spent 100 million dollars to win election
• Only won by 5 percentage points
• Interesting fact - No one wanted Rudy to stay for a few months after 9/11 to ensure a smooth transition of power - city council cried term limits and city constitution
• Yet Bloomberg got city council to change the term limits so he is able to run again - interesting...

New Jersey Governor’s Race:

• Republican Challenger Chris Christie wins.
• And he is a Morris County guy - my home county in NJ.
• First republican to win the overall state for the first time in 40 years.  Sure he didnt carry the typical counties of Essex and Bergen, but this was a race that Christie has no business winning.  So what does that say about Incumbent Jon Corzine?
• It was about the economy - plain and simple.
• Soon to be former Governor Jon Corzine fails to win re-relection, only the 3rd incumbent to loose election in New Jersey history.  Even McGreevy won re-election.  Looks like Jonny boy will join the ranks of Jim Florio (remember the motto - Florio Free in '93?)
• He's to hoping Christie can live up to his promises and may I can afford to return to my home state.

Newsmakers...

Doug Hoffman:

• Independent candidate winning in the district 23 special elections in upstate NY, against a liberal and a liberal republican.
• Recent polls have Hoffman leading the race at 31%, followed by the democrat at 27% with one week to go.

Barney Frank:

• Death Panels for Non-Financial institutions
• Not considered too big to die – Small business

Joe Biden is cutting ribbon in Detroit, ops I mean Deleware for a GM Plant today.  It only happens to be his home state.

Velocity of Money – Money from treasury -> Bank -> Consumer:

• 1970’s USA increased the money supply – inflation was 2 year behind.
• Using that model, inflation would hit in 2011
• Paul Volker, the Fed Chairman at the time, raised interest rates to 20%
• Inflation was 13%
• 2010 – We have inflated our money supply by 120 %
• What would the rate be to pull the money back in.
• There will be a rush into gold – value of Gold could go up to $5,000 to $10,000 a once.
• Double digit inflation

A sign of the times, there are school districts that does not believe in giving zero. Lowest score you can get is a 50%.

Iceland got rid of all McDonalds

• Their monetary system collapsed.
• Can no longer afford to import the meat and cheese.

Nancy Pelosi was asked where in the Constitution “does the Constitution give the authority to provide universal health care?”  Not suprising there was no answer.

NY Times Editorial – “Yes We Can”

• The Climate Change summit in Copenhagen, will make us change personal lifestyle choices and change global economies
• Lord Stern - Meat is a waste of water – we should adopt a vegetarian lifestyle. Meat eaters put a great strain on world’s resources.
• What is the primary source of protein – beans (Soy, ect)
• We must think as global citizens

Claire McCastkill – Missouri

• Of 36 Czars only 30 have any real power
• It began with a rant from Glenn Beck
• We should look at her voting record
• If we don’t like her record, we would have every right to “fire” her.

Baukis Health Care Bill

• The government will cut the doctor pay at least 5% if they provide more care then deemed medically necessary (Death Panel)
• This practice was in play back in the early 1990’s – however it was outlawed as it was deemed too dangerous to patients care.
• States 12 million people would “choose” the public option.
• Taxpayers in states who opt out still have to pay for everyone else.

Alan Grayson – Calls Lobbyist a Whore.

SEIU thugs beat up black man.

Tim Gitner – will use TARP money that is left over (278 billion dollars) as he sees fit to invest. Originally the TARP money was to be repaid to the tax payers.

It just doesnt get any better, seriously is this a joke?

H1N1 – Swine Flu:

• Over this past weekend, President Obama declares a national emergency for the swine flu.
• BUT goes on to say it’s not an emergency situation, huh? Anyone else confused?
• Interesting note - Obama’s daughters are NOT vaccinated – interesting….Where is the media on this??? Not one mention.  They say it's because there is not enough supply.  Ok first off - its the freakin President of the USA, I would think he would be on the top of the list.  Second, could this be a cover for the President not wanting to get his daughters vaccinated?

President Barrack Obama:

• In a recent speech President Obama states people are going oppose him more as he gets closer to “his” goals - well duh?
• States there is overwhelming evidence that fossil fuels are causing global climate change - must have been watching Al Gore's movie again.
• Alaska provided 200,000 square miles to the Polar Bears because they are endangered
• 25,000 population currently
• Could potentially add restrictions to future off shore drilling and gas.  But dont worry, Obama has a plan.  We dont know what it is, but he has one.
• We can always go back to his statements that the Constitution is fundamentally flawed because it does not talk about redistribution of wealth.
• States the Constitution only tell what the state and federal government can’t do – but does not mention what they should do on your behalf.
• Believes in Universal Schooling and Healthcare.
• To Joe the Plummer during the campaign trail
• “I don’t want to punish you for your success – I just want to make sure everyone behind you they have a chance at success to. When you spread the wealth around it is good for everyone.”
• Has played 24 rounds of golf since taking office in January 20, 2009
• It took former President George W. Bush 2 years and 9 months to reach that number of rounds.
• Yet there is no decision on Afghanistan
• And the middle of two wars.

Religious Bigotry

• NY Times:
• Mormonism and Glenn Beck tears
• Tears were because of his faith
• Dallas Sun:
• Glenn Beck is hypnotizing people to Mormonism
• His faith drawing him to worship the founding fathers.

Alan Grayson – House Democrat from Florida:

• Fox News and the republican collaborators are the enemy and:
• Against Health Care
• Against Peace
• Anyone who wants Energy Independence
• To America and Freedom
• How is this dude still in power?.

First Lady – Michelle Obama:

• Has 26 personal assistants or “attendants”
• Paid for by the taxpayer
• Total salaries equal 1.7 million dollars - not including lavish benefits package.

Harry Reid is NOW in support of Public Option

• Opt out provision for individual states should be in the bill
• Again how about opening up the competition and open boarders for insurance providers.

Time Letter to Editor - Glenn Beck edition:

• Step Aside, Grandma! – written by Agnieszka Marczak
• Example of the dangerous “Me First” generation
• States the Health Care debate isn’t about those over 30 – Its about the million of uninsured, recently graduated young people saddled with loans they cannot pay off
• Sick and tired of living in elder’s stupidity
• We never taught this generation the meaning of merit. We gave awards for last place and everyone plays. The we cannot discipline our children generation who was given everything while nothing was earned
• This generation is too busy trying to get noticed and get their 5 minute of fame.
• WSJ states this generation is entitled to big pay, corner office and work less then 40 hours a week

Recent News

Andrea Mitchell (Who is married to Alan Greenspan) speaking to Senator Hatch (republican) – speaking on
George Sororos who is founder of MoveOn.org:

• He is not liberal because he has done great things, as supporting President Clinton’s global initiative.

Manufacturing Czar Ron Bloom (speaking at an event on why people should work with the Steel Union):

 

• Top 10 reasons to work with steel union
• No Loyalty to anyone
• But are loyal workers
• When bought – they stay bought
• We’re ok with you getting yours – AS long as we get ours
• Work better with Republicans – Democrats are generally confused

Arlen Spector:

• Obama made big promises to him for switching parties, now he wants President Obama to pay up.

Chicago Sun Times – Obama Excuses running thin

• President Obama continues to blame Bush for current mess
• In response to the news that current operation budget deficit is 1.4 trillion for 2009
• Massive spending was needed to get us out of economic mess.
• Administration continues to be in campaign mode
• Which is it – The Bush administration or did you mis-judge the economic situation…but you cannot have both.
• Why does most of the mainstream media critique a SNL skit involving the President?

Jeanine Garofalo:

• Opposition to Obama is about hating a Black man
• Opposition is racist
• Tea Party goers do not know what the Boston Tea Party was all about

Rush Limbaugh:

• Lies were used to prevent him from NFL ownership because of his political view

Points of the Day:

• Job creation through taxpayer funds – ultimately destructive to this country
• Remember when Liberals roared in outrage when their patriotism was questioned
• What about the MoveOn.org political ad – General Betrayus?
• MoveOn.org sent a notice to its members
• States Fox News points our fake political scandals
• All year Fox News have launched a 24/7 campaign against President Obama
• Believes its liberal members should stand up to Fox.
• Democrats have MSNBC, ABC, NBC, CBS both the House and Senate.
• Conservative media only has one major media outlet.

H1N1 Vaccine:

 

Memphis – Louis Farrakhan (Nation of Islam) stated H1N1 vaccine was created to kill people

• The earth cant support 6.5 billion people 
• The black community has become toxic and must cleanse itself from within
• Again where is the media coverage on this idiot?

In the News...

Cap/Trade bill of 2009 – PROVDA: (Interesting that Russia is reporting on this...again nothing in mainstream media)

• Energy is the key to any successful society 
• Never in history did a government force people away from economic activity 
• Not even the Communist USSR established the Cap & Trade system.

Yet Another General Mao Supporter - Ron Bloom:

•  Ron Bloom was named to replace Van Jones – Manufacturing Czar
• Had nefarious ties social justice and redistributive wealth unions
• Fee market is non-sense
• Agree with Mao that power comes from power of gun to the head
• If you want a friend you should get a dog

 Ben Bernanke – Federal Reserve Chairman:

• Stated is the Dollar is in Danger
• China is now the world leader
• Encourages China to spend more

Todays Questions:

1. Where is the “Mainstream” media on the real news?
2. Why would they cover the Balloon Boy for 5 days?
3. Why would they cover quotes that Rush Limbaugh never said?

Oct 12th Time Magazine (Responses to Glenn Beck Cover)

 

The Me First Generation 20-somthings

• Blaming George Bush for bringing us to Brink 
• Doesn’t mention if Obama is bringing us further or closer to Brink
• The opposition should just sit down quietly and have the left/liberals fix the mess
• It was elder stupidity that students are in trouble (remember Bill Marr on Jay Leno?)
• The health care isn’t about people over 30 – its about the students
• Feel they were entitled to an education
• Sick and tired of living in abyss
• President Obama should fix College Town
• Grandma should step out of the way and let college kids have insurance

The Obama administration targets the youth – the easiest generation to reach and influence (Just see any dictatorship/facist)

 

What will tomorrow bring?

What you didn't Hear in the News this weekend

Oath Keepers (God Bless them!)

• Vow to keep government from becoming a dictatorship

DHS – Tea Party goers are domestic terrorists.

 

Questions we are NOT ASKING: 

1. Why do we need health care NOW when the benefits will not kick in until 2013?
2. Why is ACORN funding starting back up on October 31, 2009?
3. Why is SEIU doing all the work on Health Care reform?
4. Why was Van Jones hired when he was known as a communist?
5. Why is CNN only covering the Anita Dunn response?
6. Why are Fox News viewership numbers growing in astounding rate why CNN, MSNBC and mainstream media continue to decline?
7. Why is the government pushing community service through the mainstream media?
8. Why is the President trying to control the communications?
9. Why is the federal government picking out clothes for a Supreme Court Justice?

Net Neutrality:

• Everyone should be guaranteed equal access
• You can no longer pay for an upgraded service – everyone has the same access. 
• Will be taxes for higher quality internet
• Obama states he will not take second seat to anyone on net neutrality 
• Did we give away free radios in the 1920’s and 1930’s? 
• Did we give away free televisions in the 1950’s and 1960’s? 
• Did we give away free computers in the 1990’s and 2000’s?

 Click Here to sign Google's petition. 

 

White House war on Fox:

• War on Glenn Beck
• Youtube Video
• Rohm Emmanuel and David Axelrod states Fox News hasn’t even news 10/18/09
• Anita Dunn states she was joking on General Mao’s comments
• Axelrod stated that Fox News is not a new organization it only has a perspective.
• Only fox news has the point of view and not news stories
• Only on step away from President Obama on commenting
• Released a news bit stating that no one from the white house will appear on Fox through the end of the year.
• The secret service states there is no data to show that President Obama has more threats then any other president.
• David Axelrod suggests that CNN should not be like Fox News and question the president.
• President is upset that Fox News fact checks instead of accepting as gospel what the current administration spews out.

 Anita Dunn – White House Communication Director

• States favorite political philosophers are General Mao and Mother Theresa
• States now it was just a joke to High School graduates
• States long time GOP Lee Atwater said it all the time.
• Stated “favorite political philosophers” was just irony and that Fox News just doesn’t get it.
• States huge press strategy was to have media focus on what Obama was saying. Instead of why and what tactics they were using.
• We control information during campaign instead of press.
• White house using an isolation strategy/tactic.

Health Care

• Extra taxes for smoking and being over weight.
• Owning guns will become a health hazard and will be taxed with Universal Health Care.
• 54% now oppose a national health care
• Government refuses to put health care bill online for 72 hours

CNN has MSNBC poll on whether the White House should attack the Fox News Channel – over 76% people think the white house should NOT…interesting

 

Climate Treaty

• Lord Christopher Monckton (advisor to Margaret Thatcher)
• United Nations Climate Change Conference 2009
• World Wildlife Fund's position
• Treaty will be signed in Copenhagen this December, its three goals as stated in the treaty itself:
• States a World Government will be created or at least lays the foundation. (paragraphs 36 and 37 of document)
• Transfer of Wealth from Rich Countries to Poor Countries – Rich countries will have to pay for “messing up” the climate. Reparations of Climate Debt. Will have to pay 2% of GDP to poorer countries.
• Enforcement of this treaty. There will be series of interlocking technical panels which would supersede current elected leaders and enforce taking money from Western Countries.
• All world left-wing liberal governments will sign it. Most countries will not sign. The European Union will rubber stamp treaty to give legitimacy to treaty.
• Been in planning for 2 plus years as soon as George Bush was out of office.
• The words democracy, vote, elections do not appear in the entire document.
• United States is expected to sign. If President signs treaty it will need to be approved by congress. Article 6 of the constitution – will need 2/3 of senate to ratify treaty. President Obama during his campaign has stated he did not like the 2/3 majority in congress.
• Danger is that now that the Nobel Peace Prize has been given to President Obama, if he goes with Al Gore on his arm – the president will not read the fine print.
• We now know for certain the CO2 emissions are1/6 of what the United Nations said it was. The amount of radiation escaping into the atmosphere is just as before. The warming effect over the next 100 years is only 1 degree F; the data is now out dated. The results are measured not computer models.

New poll in President Obama’s job approval rating: Only 45% approve of his rating.

• 40 percent of Independents approve
• 18-32 year olds according to Harris Poll Interactive (Biggest Pro-Obama) have approval 

1.4 Trillion Operating debt for 2009 is more then the first 200 years of the United States.

• A trillion dollars for every year for the next 10 years (not including the new health care bill)
• Public debt will become up to 80% of the gross national product

Just remember….right before taking the oath in the White House: “We are 5 days away from fundamentally transforming this nation…” Can anyone stop this Obama train? Will any politician on either side come to their senses and realize what is going on? Stay tuned it should be an interesting yet bumpy ride

ACORN

Interesting Facts that I heard today - Community Reinvestment Act (Must lend money to poor credit risk):

• It was passed by President Bill Clinton (and involves Barney Frank)
• If the banks refused to comply, the government would shut the banks down and suspend the interstate banking license.
• Major banks include Citizen Bank in Mass, Bank of NY just to name a few.
• One way to satisfy this requirement was to partner with ACORN
• Banks could make monetary donations to ACORN
• Banks could also make equipment donations with ACORN
• Or Banks could partner with ACORN to provide loans to credit risks

ACORN was only defunded for one month, money goes back to ACORN November 1, 2009

An economist from Arizona State University who has kept track of the current economic situation:

• 30% Private wealth produced controlled by government currently because of the bail out stimulus package
• If Health Care bill passed the number increases 18%
• If Cap and Trade bill passes the number increases another 8%
• So if all bills pass – the federal government will control 56% of all private wealth produced by 2011

It all seems interesting, doesn't it?

10/13 - Personal Training

Today was one of the hardest workouts I have had since joining Body3fit.  Carlos really worked us hard and fast today, I had nothing left to give him at the end - which I would summize is the goal.

Our exercises:

• 3 sets of a Shoulder Press x 15 reps
• 3 sets of Bendover rows using dumbells x 15 reps
• 3 sets of leg press x 15 reps
• 3 sets of jumping rope for a minute
• 3 sets of bicept curls using individual machines x 15 reps
• 3 sets of alternating planks for 2 minutes
• 3 sets of scissor squats x 30 reps
• 3 sets of arm extentions to shoulder press - using dumbells x 10 reps each.

It was pure hell, but that is what we pay for.  Carlos takes so much abuse from everyone, me included, but its worth it in the end.  With Carlos its service (or pain depending on your viewpoint) with a smile.  Just like the rest of the staff at Body3fit.

I highly suggest joining me in my misery :)

An Inconvienent Hole

I was watching the video of Irish film maker, Phelim McAleer asking former Vice-President Al Gore a question regarding the High Court of England's ruling in regards to showing Gore's film - An Incoveinent Truth, to school children.

 

His question was basically does Al Gore support the British High Court's ruling, finding 9 factual errors in his movie.  See the video here.

 

Al Gore states the High Court ruled in favor of the movie.  Gore is partly correct.  According to the New Party's website - the Court ruled teachers are still allowed to show the movie, BUT:

1. The teachers have to state before showing the movie that this is a political work and only presents one side of the story
2. If the teachers do not announce this, the teachers might be in violation of section 406 of the education act of 1996 and guilty of political indoctrination.
3. 11 inaccuracies have to bring to light and addressed to the audience.

And those 11 inaccuracies are:

• The film claims that melting snows on Mount Kilimanjaro evidence global warming. The Government's expert was forced to concede that this is not correct.  
• The film suggests that evidence from ice cores proves that rising CO2 causes temperature increases over 650,000 years. The Court found that the film was misleading: over that period the rises in CO2 lagged behind the temperature rises by 800-2000 years.  
• The film uses emotive images of Hurricane Katrina and suggests that this has been caused by global warming. The Government's expert had to accept that it was "not possible" to attribute one-off events to global warming.  
• The film shows the drying up of Lake Chad and claims that this was caused by global warming. The Government's expert had to accept that this was not the case.  
• The film claims that a study showed that polar bears had drowned due to disappearing arctic ice. It turned out that Mr Gore had misread the study: in fact four polar bears drowned and this was because of a particularly violent storm.
• The film threatens that global warming could stop the Gulf Stream throwing Europe into an ice age: the Claimant's evidence was that this was a scientific impossibility.
• The film blames global warming for species losses including coral reef bleaching. The Government could not find any evidence to support this claim.
• The film suggests that the Greenland ice covering could melt causing sea levels to rise dangerously. The evidence is that Greenland will not melt for millennia.
• The film suggests that the Antarctic ice covering is melting, the evidence was that it is in fact increasing.
• The film suggests that sea levels could rise by 7m causing the displacement of millions of people. In fact the evidence is that sea levels are expected to rise by about 40cm over the next hundred years and that there is no such threat of massive migration.
• The film claims that rising sea levels has caused the evacuation of certain Pacific islands to New Zealand. The Government are unable to substantiate this and the Court observed that this appears to be a false claim.

Now why again did Mr. Gore ignore the question?  I am just curious to know.

Body Combat 10/11

Yesterday was a great BC session.  Again it was a mix of BC editions from 37 through 40.  I think our instructor Carlos took the best tracks from each session and man it was a workout. The muggy weather made it feel like a sauna inside, but I think it was worth it.

The Week in Review

There are some events I did want to cover from last week.

1. Nobel Peace Prize awarded to United States of America president Barrack Obama.
• What disturbs me about this is that he was nominated 10 days into his presidency.  I dont know about you, but what can any president do in 10 days time.  I dont care what political party the person is affliated with, it just cannot be done.
• The president is now a joke around the world.  It's one thing for the American people to make fun of the president - he is OUR leader, but when other countries are doing it, it just boils my skin.
• I was too young and un-interested in politics when Arafat won the award in 1994, but Obama winning the prize, makes a joke of this once prestegious award.
2. George Soros - Donating One Billion Dollars to clean energy.
• The MoveOn.org founder, who was Obama's largest donator is planning to donate to clean jobs, but at what cost?
3. Why is no one asked questions:
• Why cant we read the health care bill in advance?
• How involved is SEIU with the Health Care?
• Why is there a war on the media - Foxnews? Since when did a news outlet which is ranked number 1 in the country become an enemy bigger then terrorism?
• Why is my taxpayer dollars going to pay for someone from the White House (Communication director - Ms Dunn) to specifically watch Fox News and Glenn Beck?
• Why is no one asking about President Obama's comments on Chicago public radio address 2001 (when he was a senator from IL) on his position on the redistribution of wealth and the collation of powers (like SEIU) that the Supreme Court should have been used to subvert the Constitution and have government forcibly redistribute the wealth?
4. Health Care:
• Average wait time is twice as long in Canada
• 45% of doctors say they will quit if Health care bill is passed. By 2020 - average doctor debt for minorities will be $750,000
• 500 millions dollars being cut from Medicare - AARP is set up to sell gap insurance...to cover 160 billion dollar gap
• SEIU - has 1.1 million members in health care union. I wonder who wrote the stimulus/government health care bill - oh I know The Apollo group, which has ties to SEIU.  Interesting.

10/08 - The Workout

Just like Tuesday's workout routine, Thursday's workout was short, compact and intense. My exercises:

• 3 sets of standing rows using rope handles - 15 reps
• 3 sets of standing bicep curls, alternating each leg (stork) - 10 reps each leg
• 3 sets of back extentions - 15 reps (this one was a little hard on me today)
• 3 sets of squat to shoulder press using a 35 lbs plate - 15 reps
• 3 sets of dips using a bench - 15 reps
• 3 sets of directional cruches - 10 reps each side.

Plus our usual 30 minutes of cardio - stationary bike.

10/08 - The Results

Well prior to our work out, we had our first offical results since beginning personal training (after 8 weeks):

• Overall dropped 10 pounds on the scale
• gained three inches on the chest
• lost two inches in the waist
• lost 1/2 inch on my thighs

I personally though I would have had better results, but at least I am headed in the right direction. I know there are times were I have struggled with my nutrition. That's ok, but we have to crawl before we can walk, and walk before we can run. As long as I do not give up and I inch towards my fitness goals.

Body Combat

This was a fun night and always a fund class. This time our instructor - Carlos (Also our trainer), decided to take tracks from BC releases 37 through 39. Boy it was a workout! I havent been this sore since my very first combat class. Saturday should be more of the same - a best of BC. Two weeks until the new release of 41! For those in the Houston area - check us out at Body 3 fitness.

10/05 Personal Training

Well our trainer - Carlos, sure had a fun workout for us planned:

• 3 Sets of Standing Rows using rope handles x 15 reps
• 3 Sets of One Leg Bicep curls alternating x 15 reps
• 3 Sets of Bench dips on a half ball x 15 reps
• 3 Sets of crunches - 15 each side (Right, front, left)
• 3 Sets of back extentions x 15 reps
• 3 Sets of Squats to shoulder Press x 15 reps

After which we did our usual 30 minutes of cardio (stationary bike).

Thursday is our first offical measurements since starting personal training. Here's crossing fingers!

Weather

One big difference being in the south, particularly in Houston is the weather. I spent my first summer in Texas this past summer while my wife was in the cool comforts of New Jersey getting our wedding plans finalized. I think here in Houston it was over a 100 degrees for some 15 straight days. and 28 of 30 days in June with no rain. It was just aweful. At 9pm it would still be well about 90 degrees.

Now its October 2009 and its 94 as a high tempature. I should be greatful as I read my hometown of Succasunna, New Jersey low tempature will be 35 tonight, but with the heat and humidity, comes Mosquitos and I cannot stand those stupid insects. I am ready to be done with them for the season. Come on winter!

10/4 Bodycombat

To suppliment my personal training my wife and I do BodyCombat by Les Mills which burns about 800-1000 calories currently per one hour session. We take Body Combat 3 days a week giving us only Friday and Sunday off from the gym. So far this formula has worked for us and while it might be small results, we still see them. I would highly recommend this group fusion class to anyone on any fitness level. I know Gold's Gym does offer Les Mills group courses and for those in the Houston area...check out Body3 Fit.

I am excited that Body Combat (BC for those in the know) new release is coming to my gym in two weeks. I am starting to get tired of the current set of tracks.

Oil Nations to Drop Dollar

I read a disturbing news article last night on the DrudgeReport (say what you will about The Drudge Report, but I find it a fair and informative news source that the mainstream media refuses to acknowledge). The news was the Arab states were in the planning stages of replacing the dollar currency for oil trading. This is very disturbing, not only because I happen to work in the Oil and Gas industry for an international company but the ripple effect of an already fragile economic system. The fact that a United Kingdom news source reported this instead of a USA news source is upsetting as well, but that's a whole seperate story. Should be interesting indeed. I just might start buying Gold and Gold stocks

New York Mets

So my baseball season ended once again, there would be no more baseball in Metsville for 2009. There was no dramic failure this time around - as most fans realized the season was over when the Mets could field an all-star team of its disable liste players. The fact that they had a winning record at home (abeit 41-40) with thier AAA team playing, does say something.

I am putting my support around an LA Dodgers vs Yankee world series where Joe Torre sweeps the Yankees in 4 games. I cannot stand the site of another Yankee fan throwing in my face that my team sucks and always will suck for all time...blah blah blah 26 world championships. It just makes me want to punch you in the face and walk away. Heck as long as any team but the Yankees win, I will be happy. I probably will not watch until the World Series hits, since I have my NY Giants to keep me going until spring training 2010.

You played well with what you were given 2009 Mets, now pick up the peieces and gives us a playoff caliber team in 2010.

A Lifestyle Change

Exactly 8 weeks ago, I decided to make a serious lifestyle change. My wife and I 2 months prior to our wedding, decided to join a gym to loose weight for our wedding. She wound up loosing 4 dress sizes and I lost 12 lbs and a jacket size. We made a pledge to continue after our honeymoon. We started our Personal training at Body3fit with our good freinds Carlos Camacho and Tom Jackobs. Its through their personal interest in us and a great support staff that since August 8, 2009 I can personally say I have lost an additional 15 pounds and 2 inches off my waist. I know I have a long way to go, and you dont correct 7 years of neglect in a month, but with the support of my wife and the gym buddies, I cannot fail. Me a gym rat - never would have thunk it.

Welcome

As always, I am a little late to the blogging party. It is my goal to keep a record of what is going on and my thoughts on various topics. I believe its important to keep a written record or journal on own's thoughts, not only for some self reflection, but for you children and grandchildren. Keeping it online, almost perserves it forever in cyberspace. As I watched a recent episode of The Simpsons my wife and I full expect that our children will be tweeting as part of their homework assignment. I can vividly remember starting my freshman year at Seton Hall University in the fall of 1995 and the issuance of laptops was limited to a select group of students, and the internet was new and chatrooms were on IRC not AOL. I envision this blog to be a little of everything as that is exactly what's in my head. I am the walking commercial for that drug that displays the remote constantly changing the channel.

As the title states, I am borned and raised in the northwest corner of New Jersey but recently moved to Houston, Texas due to work, economy and my wife (she moved here first and we successfully did a long distance relationship for over a year). She is also a born and raised Jersey Girl. We often find ourselves out of our element living in Houston. We love our diner's (Denny's is no replacement - nor is the 59 diner); our Jersey pizza (Brother's Pizza comes close, but still not as good quality), decent Chineese food, Jersey Bagels (how sad is the best is from McDonalds down here!) I could go on and on. Perhaps its the dirty water from the Hudson - who knows. As we get settled as a newly married couple in our new downtown loft, this should be interesting...