Tabouleh

What I Learned from Ronnie James Dio

2010-05-16T17:55:00.000-07:00

One of the greatest singers of not only heavy metal, but of all time passed away today. Ronnie was one of my favorites and forever will be. This is what I learned from him.

I learned that you will know for the first time, if your evil or divine you are the last in line.

Sail on - Sing your song - carry on

If you walk in golden halls, you get to keep the gold that falls.

Is a wise man always wise? NO! He can play the fool.

We are fire, we are a flame and we burn at the touch of a spark.

Then on with the change,It was simple but strange and you knew the feeling seemed to say it all

LOOK OUT!

Your a dancer, but you're dancing on air,just a matter of time till you fall.

Love can be seen as the answer, but nobody bleeds for the dancer

There is a place just south of witches valley, where they say the wind won't blow.

If you listen to fools, the mob rules.

The devil is never a maker, the less that you give, you're a taker

The lover of life is not a sinner,the ending is just a beginner

Well if it seems to be real, it's illusion

Throw me a penny and I'll make you a dream.

Time is a never ending journey,Love is a never ending smile.

Never trust your shadow in the dark.

I'm the sun, I'm the sun,I can move, I can run But you'll never stop me burning.

When there's lightning - it always bring me down.

We pray to someone, But when it's said and done,It's really all the same
With just a different name.

We're all born upon the cross.The throw before the toss.You can release yourself
But the only way is down.

Holy Diver, your the star of the masquerade, no need to look so afraid.

Random Musings for a February Morning

2010-02-03T09:44:00.000-08:00

Do dumb people make dumb decisions? If they do, are they dumber for it?

When did the Charlie Chaplin mustache become the Hitler mustache?

Since a Groundhog is a Woodchuck, I want to make a motion to make Groundhog's Day, Woodchuck Day. Woodchuck Wednesday's has a much better ring, plus another reason to get off work early.

Imagine if everyone of your friends who leaves a status update about the show Lost suddenly says, "Oh I see."

I think Snookie from the Jersey Shore is proof that Fred Flintstone is alive and in drag.

Last Musings of 2009

2009-12-29T16:02:00.000-08:00

Is it weird to change or go to the bathroom in front of your dog? I guess it is reciprocal for us watching them pee and poop on a walk.

If you have a lisp, at what age do you decide to not sound like a child any more? I mean get the thing fixed already!

When is a blue collar town going to be referred to as the town of people who did not try hard enough?

Empire State of Mind

2009-10-30T07:23:00.001-07:00

Jay-Z and Alicia Keyes have a new song called an Empire State of Mind. Get it? Not New York, because that would have sounded too much like Billy Joel's New York State of Mind which most people associate the title with.

Here are some other song titles they played with but felt it would have been to similar to Billy:

Keyboard Man
Captain Jacques
You May Be Correct
Scenes from a Venetian Resturaunt
I Go Over the Top
An Innocent Male
Uptown Lady
Only the Good Die Small
It's Still Rock N' Roll to Myself
Upset Young Man

Best Halloween TV Specials

2009-10-29T07:29:00.000-07:00

The best part about the holidays outside of food, candy and presents, OK fine family, are all the cool cartoon/TV oriented specials. I still get giddy when I see ads for shows I used to love as a kid. Since it is Halloween, here are my top five favorite Halloween specials:

5. Bugs Bunny's Howl-Oween Special - Granted, this was just a rehash of old cartoons, but I love watching the episode when Bugsy pal is dressed up like Hansel and the witch tries to eat him.

4. Paul Lynde Halloween Special - I was 3 years old and I was just blown away because KISS made it's national TV debut and performed three songs.

Take into consideration you have Paul Lynde, Margaret Hamilton, Witchie Poo (Billie Hayes H.R. Puff n Stuff), Florence Henderson performing a disco version of That Old Black Magic and Disco Lady. Oh yes, The Osmonds!! All of this ads to a cornucopia of what the hell is this? Sheer brilliance!

3. Raggedy Ann and Andy in The Pumpkin Who Couldn't Smile - I do not remember much of this cartoon. But when this debuted in 1979, I remember seeing commercials that Kiss was going to be on Tom Snyder. Obviously I could not stay up that late, but I got to see the episode many years later. A wonderful episode because Ace Frehley is piss drunk and absolutely hysterical. I recommend you youtube this.

2. Fat Albert Halloween Special - I should say the best reason to watch this, is just to hear Bill Cosby in his Fat Albert voice say,"IT'S THE FAT ALBERT HALLOWEEEEEEEEEEEN SPECIAL!" You have the Cosby kids hanging out with Mudfoot who eats 10 wads of gum and talks with his mouth full. I used to impersonate this as a child and annoy every family member along the way.

1. It's The Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown - No Contest. I think this is every one's favorite. What other cartoon can take a crazy halloween story and suddenly bring Snoopy's Red Baron role into it. How does this story for kids turn into Apocalypse Now? You have Snoopy in his "aircraft" shooting down German planes, taking in enemy gun fire and then walking in the forest to escape enemies. I don't know about you, but nothing says Halloween like World War I.

Another quick note. Remember when Lucy asks Linus how he is going to mail the letter to the GP in the mail box that is like 10 feet high? So eventually Linus gets the letter up there by using his blanket?

Seriously, how small are these kids and how high are these damn mail boxes?

Happy Halloween Everyone!!

Richmond, CA - The City Where We Sit and Stare

2009-10-28T07:18:00.000-07:00

So the story out of the Bay Area where a teenage girl was gang raped at a school dance just keeps getting worse. Police now say 20 people witnessed the entire event.

20 people? Was there a camera crew? Something like this is usually shot to be distributed at your local adult bookstore. This is pure evil.

Also, this was done just outside of the homecoming dance? Nobody who was in attendance said, hmm maybe we should do something? This is wrong? We should stop this? Seriously, nobody did anything?

You mean to tell me the kids who just got pubes like yesterday just sat there and went, this is normal for teenagers to do this? At a friggin home coming dance?

Whatever happened to underage drinking, smoking dope and hanging out at your friends house?

NO SOUP FOR YOU!

2009-10-23T09:06:00.000-07:00

Soupy Sales is dead. I thought this guy was dead for years. What was his shtick? A pie to the face? Legendary...

Quick Thoughts...

If you are feeling Minnesota and Minnesota does not feel back, can they ask for a restraining order?

Apparently, existing homes sales are at a two year high? Does this mean non-existent home sales are at a two year low?

People You Cannot Trust

2009-10-16T15:12:00.000-07:00

I was thinking the other day of people in life you cannot trust anything with. Or maybe they just annoy the living hell out of me. So I decided to make a list. Here is what I came up with. Not in any order.

1. The Perpetual Duh – This is the person who has their mouth open even when they are not talking. They sit there and you can just think in your head, duhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh. They just stare into space and just have that look like they are about to go into a stroke or kill somebody’s cat. Seriously, close your mouth!

2. I Must Wear An Undershirt With Everything Guy, Even Over An Undershirt – I mean, did your grandmother tell you to wear a shirt underneath your shirt before you went outside? I know you are 40 now but come on!

3. Its 120 Degrees Outside So I Must Wear Pants and A Long Sleeve Jacket and If You Are Lucky Play Basketball In The Same Outfit. No explanation necessary.

4. I Go To Karaoke Bars So I Can Be Discovered – Thank You for ruining the time of pretty much everybody at bar by your over singing and selection of serious songs. This is why you are in a karaoke bar and not on tour.

5. The Dead Rock Star Expert – Ah yes, the person who buys greatest hits album of a recently deceased music legend and suddenly becomes expert of said legend. You know who you are Johnny Cash fans.

Ramblins' o The Week

2009-09-03T10:41:00.000-07:00

I think it is safe to say Travis Barker needs to update his will.

Give one point for tact and the man who is selling Fire Shirts in a tent off the 118 freeway in LA. WOO HOO, Dead Firefighters, home losses and now you can say you saw the fire! Jack Ass.

I think people who believe Dunkin' Donuts coffee is the greatest have never drank coffee before.

So the crazy Duggar family is now expecting their 19th child. Mom Michelle whose uterus is probably the size of the 405 freeway was asked by People Magazine how she felt. She said, "We are so thrilled,we just couldn't believe it is happening."

Ok, you have 18 children and you are in disbelief? Seriously? Anyone else hope this one is Damien from the Omen?

I saw an article in the LA Times on runner Usain Bolt. The article was called, How does Usain Bolt Do It. I'll take a stab. HE RUNS FASTER THAN US!

Some Thoughts

2009-08-25T13:23:00.000-07:00

I wish people who tell others to join a "fight" to put an end to something like, Fight to Stop Hunger or Fight to Cure Autism actually came to the event and physically fought everyone there.

Contrary to popular belief, in Eddie Money's Take me Home Tonight, the lyric of "Just Like Roni Sang, Be My Little Baby" was not originally, Just like Anne Frank Sang, SHHHH.

How much cocaine would we be on if Billy Mays sold it during his infomercials?

I see that Thirtysomething was released on DVD. I think they should reunite to form Sixtysomething. Instead of the cast complaining about meaningless things such as broken appliances, center it around about how hot it is outside and colons. And of course why Melissa is still not married.

Bravo Scotland!

2009-08-20T07:44:00.000-07:00

It is really disheartening to learn that Scotland has freed Abdel Baset al-Megrahi, who took part in the bombing of Pan Am Flight 103 on Dec. 21, 1988. al-Megrahi, has been given months to live after being diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer.

To refresh your memory, 270 people were murdered in the attacks. 259 died in the mid-air explosion while 11 people were killed from the explosion on the ground.

So, Scotland's justice system is showing compassion by allowing him to die at home and flying him back to Libya. As you can imagine, family members of those who died are outraged, as well as so many around the world. So, here is my solution.

Have the pilot and crew fly al-Megrahi home. Once the crew is over a nice stretch of barren African desert, have the entire crew parachute off the plane and yell out, pay back's a bitch.

Just sayin...

Everybody Deserves a Second Chance or Seventh.

2009-08-14T08:04:00.000-07:00

For a brief moment last night, I actually forgave Michael Vick. I mean, that is what we are supposed to do right? But last night after I heard Donovan McNabb say everybody deserves a second chance,I remembered:

1. Electrocuting Dogs
2. Drowning Dogs
3. Hanging innocent puppies in a tree so that pit bulls can tear them to shreds.
4. Taking family member pets and putting them in the fighting ring to get mauled.
5. Getting arrested for smoking dope outside the courthouse while on trial for dog fighting.

So I guess this would be his 6th chance? I can see once he gets his paycheck from Philly, he will be giving fans the finger again. Which of course would be his 7th chance since he has done that already.

So what is worse Philly? Being the heroin capital of the U.S. or being home to Michael Vick?

Cliche Carnival

2009-08-12T09:02:00.000-07:00

Here are some cliched sayings that I think would benefit us all if we never heard again.

Everything Happens For a Reason - Incorrect. Sometimes things happen. Stop hanging on for meanings and wasting your time deflecting a problem.

It Is What It Is - No it is not. I think this is the worst of them all. What it is, is that you are too lazy to deal with it.

You Are What You Eat - I am in no way shape or form a box of Special K Red Berries Cereal.

In My Honest Opinion - No, please lie to me to make this more interesting.

I think he is the youngest boy to fake his death

2009-08-10T08:01:00.000-07:00

Now this would freak anyone out, but I think he may be the youngest boy ever to fake his death.

In Paraguay, a baby boy that was born 4 months premature was declared dead at the hospital. Hours later at his wake, he woke up and let everyone know he was still alive.

According to his doctor, he weighed only 500 grams when he was born and did not have a heartbeat. Therefore, they declared him dead.

So the family was given the death certificate and a makeshift cardboard coffin. Because that is how they roll in Paraguay.

So they come to the wake, they opened up the box and low and behold the baby is crying,kicking and screaming leading everybody to freak out.

Just in case you are wondering,Generalissimo Francisco Franco is still dead.

Random Musings

2009-08-05T09:29:00.000-07:00

I think if anyone objects to the Obama administration's spending, then I ask all parents who received the extra $1500.00 tax credit for their child to give it back. That includes the interest.

I wish FOX would stop putting it in my face and ask if I think I can dance. When did I say I could?

You know your sports organization has fallen into the crapper when your top draft pick is prepared to sit out the season and reenter the draft in 2010. San Francisco 49ers, where have you gone?

Just when I was holding out hope for a sequel to Curley Sue, John Hughes has to die.

To that end, for some reason, why do I keep thinking it's John Holmes for every obit I keep reading about John Hughes.

Jim Rice - Hall of Fame Ignorance

2009-07-26T10:25:00.000-07:00

Ok, I am a Yankee fan and have always considered myself to be fairly objective regardless who my favorite team is.

But when Jim Rice, who I believe should not be in the HOF ahead of people like Andre Dawson, criticizes the Yankees because they spent a ton of money that affected the Red Sox chances of winning boggles my mind.

Hmm, lets see, who choked a 14 game lead in 1978? The Yankees? No, the Red Sox. All you had to Jim was win half of your games and you failed. But I guess its the Yankees fault.

Oh and the lavish spending. Who beat you in the one game playoff Reggie Jackson??? Catfish Hunter? No, BUCKY FRIGGIN DENT!!! A guy that hit 40 career home runs and one that still stings for all Boston fans till this day.

Shall we also forget Jim the biggest reason you did not win a title? RACE!

No African American wanted to sign with Boston because of the organizations racist history and racist owner. It is common knowledge that players went out of their way to spite the Red Sox because of this. Boston just "celebrated" its 50 year anniversary of when their first African American player, Pumpsie Green played in game.

But is that even a pleasant anniversary? 50 years as the last team to integrate? Well, that is another story for another day.

So Jim played from 1974-1989. So during that time the Yankees, just like the Red Sox made 4 post season appearances. The Red Sox also played in 2 World Series and both not against the Yankees who allegedly stood in their way. So why do the Yankees get the flak of being the sole reason for Boston not to win a championship? It seems the other American League teams did just fine. I mean,why not blame:

The Cincinnati Reds for defeating you in the World Series?
Baltimore for getting in your way in 1979 and 1983?
Milwaukee in 1982?
Detroit in 1984 or 1987?
How about the Royals in 80 or 85?
Minnesota? Oakland?

Why not Bill Buckner and Bob Stanley? You were only one strike away in 1986! Buckner's error or Stanley's wild pitch in the 9th had nothing to do with it. One strike away Jim. Just one. Was George Steinbrenner at Shea Stadium throwing rocks at you while you were up? You blew it, deal with it.

So once again Jim, congrats on making yourself and "Red Sox Nation" as myopic as ever.

With that, how can you not love the Yankees Shelly Duncan's autograph?

Lebron Gets Dunked On

2009-07-22T15:42:00.001-07:00

Finally a copy of the video that shows Lebron James getting dunked on has been released. Check it out!

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Blake Lively Hosts Grand Opening of Swarovski CRYSTALLIZED

2009-07-09T10:42:00.000-07:00

Michael McDonald The Voice of God

2009-06-30T11:15:00.000-07:00

I truly believe the world would be a happier place if we all spoke the way Michael McDonald sang.

Even the Family Guy sort of acknowledged this fact in one of their episodes. So to that end, here are some words that I think I would like us all to try if we all spoke this way. So lets try them. In Michael's voice, we say

10. Falafel
9. Obama
8. Swisher Sweet
7. Hay Ride
6. Parallelogram
5. Hungry
4. Bubble Gum
3. Tumultuous
2. Brisket
1. Conquistodor

CALL RIGHT NOW AND

2009-06-28T12:15:00.000-07:00

Billy Mays has died.

So Mays family, if you call right now, you will receive two funerals for only 19.95. If you call in the next 15 minutes, I will slash the price to 9.95!

Michael McDonald Hendrix

2009-06-26T11:10:00.000-07:00

I just realized, Michael McDonald would have been the perfect voice for Jimi Hendrix songs if he did not sing his own songs. Seriously, get yourself in Michael mode and sing:

HEY JOE, WHERE ARE YOU GOING WITH THAT GUN IN YOUR HAND.

HEEEEEEEERRE'S COFFIN!

2009-06-23T07:38:00.000-07:00

Ed McMahon died shortly after midnight this morning. He was 86. Judging by the boat load of money he lost from gold-diggers and bad investments, he was 194.

Haunt them buddy!

Random Musings

2009-06-10T10:34:00.000-07:00

Well it seems Mike Tyson is officially done mourning as he just got married two weeks after his child's death.

Am I the only one that wants to smash their vehicle into a Smart Car?

Speaking of which, why do so many people who have Prius's drive 10 miles an hour in the car pool lane?

Andrew Gallo, the man accused of killing Los Angeles Angel Nick Adenhart and his two friends has pleaded not guilty in his trial. It is not known if the car will stand trial.

Stan Van Gundy is Ron Jeremy.

Kwai Chang Caine Pinata Turns Out to be David Carradine

2009-06-04T11:47:00.000-07:00

In Bangkok, a hotel worker who was cleaning the closet of David Carradine's room thought she spotted a Kwai Chang Caine pinata from the 70's television show Kung Fu.

Before taking her broom to strike the pinata, she realized it was in fact David Carradine who reportedly hung himself. He was 72.

UPDATE!!!

Apparently, the police have ruled out a suicide. Reports are coming in saying that the death resulted from auto-asphyxiation with a cord also wrapped around his testicles.

Michael Hutchence has nothing on you grasshopper!

Congrats Cynthia Nixon!

2009-05-18T11:00:00.000-07:00

I am so happy that Cynthia Nixon is engaged to Jared Rushton. You may remember Jared from such 80's greats such as Big, Honey, I Shrunk the Kids and Pet Cemetery 2. In case you do not, here is a picture.

Make it Clap

2009-04-27T09:23:00.000-07:00

If you are happy, but completely unaware of it, do you still clap your hands?

Why is it when people that come from England or Australia lose their accents when they sing?

To that end, why do country music artists not from the south sound like they are from the south. Keith Urban? Merle Haggard? C'mon Merle, you are from fricken Bakersfield, CA and you are also not an OKIE from Muskogee!

I saw a woman whose first name was Marbelle. I thought it would be funny if she married the Scorpions drummer Herman Rarebell. Her name would be Marbelle Rarbell.

Now that Danny Gans has sadly passed away, do Rita Rudner and Lance Burton feel a sigh of releif that now they can become the entertainer of the year. More importantly, does Wayne Newton get his old job back?

And Then There's No Maude

2009-04-25T15:02:00.000-07:00

Such a sad day. Bea Arthur, star of Maude and The Golden Girls is dead.

Thank you for being a friend Bea. Thank You.

Random Musings

2009-04-24T11:17:00.000-07:00

When is reinventing oneself not selling out?

At least Jimi Hendrix and Michael Hutchense choked with dignity. What can be said year after year of the San Jose Sharks?

What are conservatives conserving?

Are gay men in Quebec openly Guy?

My Son is not a Monster

2009-04-17T12:00:00.000-07:00

I just read the presser after on the guy who killed LA Angel Nick Adenhart, Andrew Gallo and his court appearance.

Apparently, his father, Thomas Gallo says the family are receiving death threats and those same people believe his son is a monster.

I am sorry, I am 100 percent behind Thomas Gallo here. His son is not a monster.

Grover, Ernie, Cookie and Elmo are monsters. I like Monsters. His son is a drunk and a murderer. A murderer on three counts.

Then, his mom Sandra went on to say, "It was an accident,he never meant to hurt anybody, ever."

Ok, how many DUI's does a guy need for his enabler mom to see the light? If you drink, you become what alcohol makes you. A murderer.

So to recap:

Cute Lovable Furry Monster

Murderer

I love enablers.

Enough of it!

2009-04-16T15:55:00.000-07:00

OK, I get it. Susan Boyle is unattractive and yet sings like the lead in Heavens Choir.

How many times do I have to see this damn video and have every one play on how ugly she is but sounds amazing.

Why don't you just talk about her voice rather than focus on the fact that the chick has never been kissed or what have you.

Oh ya, otherwise we wouldn't care and she would be just another Julie Andrews or Sarah Brightman.

By All Means, Please be a Cowboy

2009-04-15T07:59:00.000-07:00

So I am driving in my car the last few days and I have seen a few cars that have the sticker to let everyone know to Cowboy Up or Shut Up.

So in response to these folks and their fascination to be cowboys, I would like the following rules to be applied to their lives:

From now on, you cannot drive a car. You can only use a wagon or ride a horse.

You can no longer drink water from the tap or a bottle, you must go to a well.

You can no longer dress in any modern fashion. I want to see chaps, spurs, hats, bandannas and boots. No jeans as they were not around then either.

You can only live on a ranch or in a tent.

You can no longer go to the grocery store and buy food. You can only grow or raise food.

Modern appliances are of no use to you. You cannot watch any television,use the computer,listen to the radio, get the phone or anything for that matter than involves electricity.

You cannot use fed ex or any overnight service to send mail and you have to wait the normal month to get a letter.

You cannot take a plane, bus or subway. Train is acceptable. But you will still go to jail if you rob it.

If your home is on fire or somebody needs help, you cannot call 911.

So go ahead, cowboy up.

Something Tells Me His New Pals Will Not "Let it Be."

2009-04-13T14:26:00.000-07:00

Now that Phil Spector was found guilty of Second Degree Murder, I think his songs may come back to haunt him when he meets his new inmates.

Songs you may hear Phil start singing in the house.

* "To Know Him Is to Love Him"
* "Every Breath I Take" – Gene Pitney
* "I Love How You Love Me" – The Paris Sisters
* "He Knows I Love Him Too Much"
* "Let Me Be the One"
* "Second Hand Love"
* "He's A Rebel"
* "He's Sure the Boy I Love"
* "(Today I Met) The Boy I’m Gonna Marry"
* "Then He Kissed Me"
* "Wait ’Til My Bobby Gets Home"
* "Be My Baby" – The Ronettes
* "A Fine Fine Boy" – Darlene Love
* "You've Lost That Lovin' Feelin'"
* "The Long and Winding Road")

Marylin Chambers is dead

2009-04-13T12:02:00.001-07:00

Porn legend Marylin Chambers was found dead at her home today. It is unclear if they found her behind the green door.

I Guess He Ran Out of Hit Points

2009-04-11T08:51:00.000-07:00

Dave Arneson, one of the co-creators of the Dungeons & Dragons has died.

It is unclear now who will play the role of dungeon master.

Such is Life

2009-04-09T12:06:00.000-07:00

Who is Barry Manilow thinking of taking to that Weekend in New England? My guess is Randy.

Why do we forgive NFL Steroid users and not Major League Baseball's?

Why do we stare at our cell phones instead of talking to others on them?

When will Elton John dedicate Candle in the Wind to Natasha Richardson?

What says I love you more than the stencil epitaph on the car window? I am thinking of renting out my car window to use as an epitaph for those whose 95 year old grandmothers and gang-banger children have died.

Random Musings

2009-04-02T05:54:00.000-07:00

I don't think you can say you have ran a marathon when you walked portions of it.

Do you think Barry Manilow had a guy named Randy in mind when he wrote Mandy?

I think if you got caught between the moon and New York City, chances are you will fall to your death.

Now that Life on Mars is done, when will Life on Uranus begin?

I am still trying to find two people who still watch ER. Anyone?

Well, you cannot really see him tonight.

2009-03-26T19:55:00.000-07:00

Dan Seals, half of the 70's pop team of England Dan and John Ford Coley is dead. There biggest hit was 1976's 'I'd Really Love to See You Tonight.'

Friday Ramblings

2009-03-20T11:52:00.000-07:00

Maybe actors would not threaten to strike if they actually made shows people would watch that actually involved actors.

I am surprised at how many people on Facebook knew Natasha Richardson well enough to put her in their status. I am sure she would reciprocate.

I am still wondering why people throw their cigarettes from their car out the window and not place them in an ashtray. If you are stinking up your car already and you reek of smoke, why are you littering?

I clearly have a drinking problem. By that I mean, I need to drink something else other than my first few cups of coffee in the morning.

Cover Bands I Would Like to See

2009-03-17T11:44:00.001-07:00

Feeling the inspiration from my friends Paul and Bob and their idea of seeing an all-chicken cover band of The Who (The Chicken Who featuring Roger Poultry) I have decided that I myself would like to see the following cover bands:

Begis - Regis Philbin's tribute to the Bee Gee's.

Emmy Lou Alex Karras - Former NFL great and star of Webster Alex Karras's tribute to Emmy Lou Harris.

Mutley Crue - Mutley the Dog's tribute to Motley Crue. Vocals are all sung in Mutley's classic laugh.

The Sequin Indians - Native American band dressed in sequins who salute Glen Campbell by performing a 95 minute rendition of Rhinestone Cowboy.

Not Thrilled to be Alive - Grateful Dead Tribute band covered by goths.

and last but not least...

Good Atheists - Bad Religion cover band.

Random Musings

2009-03-12T15:26:00.000-07:00

There are not enough people in the world named Thurston.

I see nothing wrong in making fun of the dead. I cannot help it if they are unable to defend themselves.

When Arabs and Jews fight in the Middle East,which country is anti-semetic?

Do you think Earth,Wind and Fire will have a Fantasy Camp?

I think the TV Show Big Brother should be about older brothers.

How cool would it be if there was an Octo-Papa?

Chris and Rhianna to duet!!!

2009-03-10T10:01:00.001-07:00

So apparently this Chris Brown and Rihanna thing just keeps getting better. Reports are now coming out that the two are working on a duet. Here are some working titles.

I Bruise Easily (But if fruit can take it, so can you)

Punch de Replay

Punch My Face (Don't Let Up)

Forever (Where Do You Think Your Goin?)

Cover Songs they can duet:

It's a Hit (Rilo Kiley)
Hit Me with your Best Shot (Pat Benetar)
The Hitter (Bruce Springsteen)

There is the old tasteless joke of what do 1,000,000 battered women have in common? They don't listen. Great job Rihanna on making the dream a reality.

Bob Marley is a Plagiarist Part 2

2009-03-09T12:46:00.000-07:00

First it was the Banana Splits theme song and Buffalo Soldier.

Now it's John Lennon? Come on Robert!

Oh Yoko

No Woman, No Cry

My First Concert

2009-03-04T09:00:00.000-08:00

It was 1981, my father was on a business trip on the east coast. Whenever he went somewhere, especially New York, we knew that always meant he would come back with presents. I will never forget this because he came home with brand new New York Yankee jackets for my brother and I. But this time, he came home with something to accompany it.

After sifting through his suitcase, my father went to my brother and said here you go. My brothers reaction was of pure joy, it was an album from a band that he wanted, Air Supply.

So, I take a look at the cover, and this is what I see:

My first reaction, was what in God's name is this? But probably more juvenile considering I was 6 or 7. I was used to seeing Gene Simmons on a cover scaring the hell out of me or Leif Garrett looking super cool in his leather jacket and gold chains. But who hot air balloon on an album? So, I figure since my brother is responsible for introducing me to Kiss, maybe he is on to something. So I decided to give it a chance.

So as my brother puts the record on, I am holding the album cover and decide to turn it over. The "band" is on the back cover and I notice two things, that two people are named Russell and the Asian bass player named Rex. Yes, Rex.

The first song comes on and it's a soft poptastic ballad. The next song comes on and it's a soft poptastic ballad. Then the next poptastic ballad and so on. Needless to say, I wanted to die.

So a few weeks go by and my Dad comes home with the news, we are all going to see Air Supply at the Greek Theatre. WHAT?!?!?!??!?! WHY?!?! I have been good! So in my typical fashion, I said I am not going. Well...probably not. I probably started yelling and crying and saying something mean to somebody, but really, I wanted nothing to do with this.

So the months went on, the album was played more and more and I became more and more depressed. Then, a glimmer of hope. My brother and I as always watched Solid Gold. I always paid special notice to the black woman with the long black hair. What a hottie. OK, back to the point. So as we watch, we hear that the singer of Air Supply got into an accident and broke his arm. I was thinking, maybe the concert would be canceled!!!

But it wasn't and off to the Greek we went. Probably making immature comments until show time, we sat down in our seats. The opening act was a comic. Quality. At least it was not Player or Orleans.

So the show starts and all of sudden you hear the screeches of girls going ape shit. The Supply goes probably into one of their hit songs which who knows what it was. All I know is a female fan in front of me brought two candle sticks and held them up the entire night. I would have loved to have been with this shmuck before she left. Got my keys, purse ahh yes, candles.

The highlight of the night though was when they played their current hit song, Making Love Out of Nothing At All. The song starts, the female population have probably wet themselves the moment the classic piano intro started. On a black screen behind the band, comes out a frolicking lasered unicorn.

Can somebody tell me that their was a band meeting for this?

Graham Russell: Hey Russell, what do you think this show needs to spice it up? Fire? Extra lights? Tapestries of our album cover?

Russell: How about unicorns???

Rex: You had me at corn.

So to this day, I am always jealous when people say their first concert was something classic. I let them know mine was Air Supply and Laser unicorn.

I Love Women's Lib!

2009-03-03T09:16:00.000-08:00

I just am so happy for Rhianna for not succumbing to everyone's pleas to leave Chris Brown. The temptation to resist a punch to the face is just too too much. Who are we to judge? I mean, it's not hurting anyone right? I am so happy for her to go with her gut! Even if it has a hand print in it.

You go Rhianna! Women's Lib Shmib! Go with your head, if it isn't in stitches.

As they say, you can't rape the willing...

So I wonder

2009-02-28T21:57:00.000-08:00

Were Paul Harvey's last words today, Good Night?

Setting up the what???

2009-02-27T09:57:00.001-08:00

Not sure if this is one you want to see set up, but funny nonetheless.

Cover Bands I Would Like to See

2009-02-26T09:35:00.001-08:00

Op"porn"tunity

2009-02-25T11:35:00.000-08:00

So apparently Nadya Suleman, aka Octo-Mom has been contacted by adult-film company Vivid Entertainment to make her own porno. The offer apparently is for $1,000,000. Quality.

Personally, I feel like she should take this offer. Why should the tax payers have to pay for her addiction and whacked out behavior?

As gross as this sounds, I cannot help but think of titles should she accept their offer. Here are some suggestions:

Octopus's Garden
Eight Ball
Eight Men Out
"8"67-5309(Nadya)
Eight Days a Week
Have you Eighten yet?
Eight Miles Wide
Nadya 8
Eight Crazy Nights
Eight is Enough
Dinner at 8

Sadly, I can do this all day.

Randoms for the day...

2009-02-20T09:55:00.000-08:00

Why do we still ride horses? I mean, with all of these methods of transportation, can't we give these guys a break?

How bad a ball player must you be if the Kansas City Royals or Pittsburgh Pirates designate you for assignment?

And lastly, I leave you more proof of the genius of Jim Henson who approved the idea of Alice Cooper hosting the Muppet Show. I still wish he sang Only Women Bleed with Miss Piggy. But this duet of You and Me works too.

Lose vs. Loose

2009-02-12T15:42:00.001-08:00

I have never considered myself a grammar scholar. But I do know a few things.

The opposite of winning is losing, not loosing.

When you do not win a game, you lose a game. You do not loose a game.

When an article of clothing is not tight on you, then it is loose. You do not own a lose pair of jeans and your tooth is not lose.

Make sense? Book it.

Random Musings

2009-02-11T14:48:00.001-08:00

When does somebody say, "Okay, I know this shopping cart is not mine, but I will take my store bought items home with it and leave the cart behind?"

Why do we ask people to own up to steroid use in major league baseball and once they do, pound on them for telling the truth?

Can't we just cut down more trees and produce more money? Recession solved!!!

Again, my powers spread to others

2009-02-10T09:55:00.001-08:00

Well, my power to kill celebs again has now embraced my wife in full form. Fresh off killing Eartha Kitt in December, Jill, a soap opera watcher, heard last week that the actor who played Clint on One Life to Live died. She asked if the guy who played Asa is still alive.

NOT ANY MORE!!!!!!

From today's LA Times:

Philip Carey, the ruggedly handsome veteran actor who costarred in the 1960s TV western "Laredo" and more recently played the long-running role of a bigger-than-life Texas tycoon on the ABC soap opera "One Life to Live," has died. He was 83.

Love it!

So the question is, should I blog about people I and or others think about and wonder if they are dead to give you a heads up?

Babes & Beer = Fire

2009-02-05T08:53:00.001-08:00

Early this morning in Tarzana, an exotic dancer was set on fire by two individuals. outside the "Night Club" Babes & Beer,

I do feel sad that somebody would ever want to do this to anyone. But is it me or is it ironic that this happened at a place called Babes & Beer?

Random Musings

2009-02-02T12:01:00.000-08:00

Do Roosters refer to their penises as Humans?

If Australia is the land down under, which country is over the top?

I think yellow face is a better term than Jaundice.

OOOOH THAT SMELL!!

2009-01-28T13:03:00.000-08:00

OOOOH That Smell! Can't You Smell That Smell!

Well of course you can. It's Billy Powell the original piano player from Lynyrd Skynyrd . He's dead.

He was the guy who claimed back up singer Cassie Gaines died in his arms after the plane crash. He later retracted that statement once Artemus Pyle said that was BS.

The Stage is Set for Born Again Christian Bowl XLIII

2009-01-19T10:46:00.000-08:00

On February 1, 2009, Jesus will have an extremely tough decision to make. Who will we guide to victory to Super Bowl XLIII, Kurt Warner or Ben Roethlisberger?

Both have been extremely loyal to Jesus. As you know, they both thank him for every victory. However, they do neglect him like most when they lose.

Finally, we will have an answer to see who Jesus he really prefers. Lets see what we are working with.

Ben writes "PFJ" (Play for Jesus) on his shoes. Do you think he donates his salary to Jesus considering he is playing for him? Sort of like a designated Jesus? I think he should.

Kurt on the other hand brings bibles to press conferences for the entire media.

Hopefully, Jesus is out producing another Grammy-Award winning Hip-Hop album that day. But then again, it will really answer a lot of questions.

Sorry Mr. Rourke

2009-01-14T17:35:00.000-08:00

So my wife and I were watching Right Cross with Ricardo Montalban and thought to myself, I thought Ricardo was really sick. Two hours later dead.

Sorry dude...

Random Musings

2008-12-30T10:57:00.000-08:00

Is it me? Or does the world's oldest person die everyday?

When did the word "gay" stop meaning happy and the word "puss" stop meaning mouth? I would love to bring that back.

When will they make a movie called, A Day Without Esperanto?

If JD Salinger will come out of his reclusive life and hold a press conference to say, it's pronounced Sal EENGER. Then walk away.

If a Native American will answer Glen Campbell's Rhinestone Cowboy with a song called Sequined Indian.

By the way, my power to kill celebrities wears off on others

2008-12-26T00:53:00.000-08:00

I forgot to mention if you know me, you soon get the vibe to kill celebrities. For instance, my father in law within days killed Red Buttons and Glenn Ford by asking if they were still alive.

Well yesterday, I was driving in the car with my wife and Eartha Kitt's Santa Baby came on. My wife uttered the famous words, She's still alive right?

Sorry Eartha, did not mean to put a damper on you on Xmas. But I guess I really know when it is time to go.

Christmas Memories

2008-12-22T08:34:00.001-08:00

I love Christmas. Whether it is raining, snowing or the sun is shining, it is always a beautiful day.

I hope everyone has a a great holiday. With that, I would like to share one of my favorite quotes from the late New York Yankee legend Billy Martin that he said leaving his family to go home on Christmas night.

"Oh, I can drive."

Thanks Billy! Happy Holidays!!

Dear Santa, I would like a Hannah Montana Jacket, Jonas Brothers Concert Tickets oh and for Uncle Andres to stop molesting me and my sister

2008-12-17T10:09:00.000-08:00

I guess Santa wanted to be the only one who sneaks into peoples homes at night.

A nine-year old girl in Texas wrote a letter to Santa and asked him to stop molesting her and her sister. According to Yahoo:

Police allege that for as long as four years, Andres Enrique Cantu sexually abused the girls in their bedrooms while they slept or did their homework. Cantu is a computer lab aide at an alternative high school but has not been accused of crimes against students there.

The 9-year-old's plea to Santa, written as a school assignment, launched the investigation and led to the first charge of continuous sexual abuse last week. On Tuesday, Cantu was accused of abusing the girl's older sister, who was also mentioned in the letter.

Way to go Kris Kringle!

LOOK, I HAVE A BEER!

2008-12-15T15:07:00.000-08:00

I have always wondered why people say I only smoke when I drink. I am a firm believer those who do act as if they are still think they are in High School/College trying to garner attention and say, “Hey! Look what I can do.” It's like if your are going to smoke, SMOKE!

On that note, here is another attention grabbing item that drives me insane. The head tilting, look everybody I have a beer in my hand picture.

You know who you are. You are getting ready to pose for a picture and your beer (or alcoholic beverage of choice) must be in the shot coupled with the head tilt. Even worse are those whose beverage is on the table and they pick it up to include it in the shot and put it back down when the picture is over. This does not age discriminate either.

Since the keen eye cannot tell you are drinking a beer, you tilt your head towards the beer to acknowledge that you have the beer and you actually are drinking and enjoying this beverage. Good for you!!! You did it!!

Please, if you see this person, regardless of age, punch them in the face for me.

Look at these jack asses!

Wedding CD's

2008-12-12T10:40:00.000-08:00

Weddings can sometimes be really fun. One of the cool ideas I think that has been around for a few years are the wedding Cd's. But now, I am over it and here is why.

I was just talking to my colleague Christine who told me she was listening to a wedding CD and Motley Crue's "Without You" came on. Because without you I am nothing or as the song says, without you I will slowly wilt and die. ENOUGH!

We Belong, Without You, I Can't Live if living is without you! Shania Twain, Rascal Flatts, Celine Dion or Mariah Carey??!! Grow a pair people. We know you love each other. Aren't we here because of this? Do I need to have a copy of these ridiculous songs to make that evident? Aren't we watching your first dance to this against our will?

Make a CD that makes people remember how cool this wedding was. Not what some dude or chick who did not write the song for you! That is why Frank Zappa said he did not write ballads. So some schmuck would sit there and go, this is about me or about us. NO, IT IS NOT!

My wedding music was brilliant. How many weddings had KISS or Pat Boone singing Judas Priest? Throw in some Louis Prima, Sinatra. Damn, even some 50 cent who I can care less for. Songs that make people have a good time, not turning into a sappy love fest of swimming in your love ocean.

JUST STOP IT! Seriously, STOP IT!

Macaulay Culkin's Sister Killed in Traffic Accident

2008-12-11T10:46:00.000-08:00

Earlier this week, Macauley Culkin's sister was killed in a traffic accident in LA.

This makes me wonder if everyone made this face when they found out?

Scratch the Ability to Break Coconuts off the List

2008-12-09T09:02:00.001-08:00

Add Mr. Bentley to the list

2008-12-05T07:54:00.001-08:00

For most people that know me, they know that I have the power to kill celebrities just by thinking about them. Some of my victims are:

Harvey Korman
Rudy Ray Moore
Jane Wyman
David Brinkley
John Denver
Anna Nicole Smith

Today is no different. Yesterday for some reason I was thinking that except George and Mr. Bentley, that pretty much the entire cast of the Jefferson's is dead.

I go to the LATIMES.COM and see this today!!!

Paul Benedict, the actor who played the eccentric English neighbor Harry Bentley on the sitcom "The Jeffersons," was found dead Monday at his home on Martha's Vineyard, Mass. He was 70.

I always tend to get people saying, well don't think about me! I always tell them that it only works with celebs/well known people.

Usually it starts out by reading something or a random thought and then I think, I wonder what happened to this person. For example:

One day I am reading a book and I see a name that I thought said David Brinkley. I then thought, what ever happened to him. Dead the next day.

Another day when I was in college, somebody was talking about John Denver. I thought to myself, there is a guy you do not see anymore. Next day, dead in a plane crash.

Usually I give myself a two week grace period. But it does not take that long.

I am magical!

I swear, I sometimes scare myself. Yet somehow remain enamored.

Buffalo Soldier vs. The Theme Song from the Banana Splits

2008-12-02T10:50:00.000-08:00

I would like to call out Bob Marley for being a plagiarist.

The next time you have an opportunity, listen to his Buffalo Soldier vs. The Banana Splits theme.

Right after the Buffalo Soldier chorus you hear WOAH YO YO, WOAH YO YO YO, etc.

If you are not old enough, here is the Youtube clip. Notice the Tra La La, Tra La, La, La. Sound familiar?

And they call Bob a genius!! HA!

Pet Peeve

2008-11-21T09:23:00.000-08:00

Pet Peeve # 32 - People who sound like they are eating when they talk.

Just some ramblings

2008-11-17T08:35:00.000-08:00

I am really hoping the fat one wins on Biggest Loser.

I am looking forward to Heroes getting canceled so I no longer have to hear people talk about how miserable their lives are.

Is it okay to call a baby ugly?

Maybe American Idol is not so bad...

2008-11-12T14:47:00.000-08:00

I never understood the fascination with reality TV. To me, it is like people who want to jump off a bridge or a building to get attention. This is why you never see footage of this on a newscast or even people who jump on a field during a sporting event.

This is another reason why I do not watch American Idol. To me, it is about people who want to win a contest and become famous and never of heard again. Yay Taylor whats his name or that dude that looks like a fat Shaquille O'Neal. Kelly Clarkson is about as bookable these days as Magic Johnson at a KKK rally.

The bottom line is I respect others who are working their tales off in clubs and parties to earn a living and get signed. Not somebody whose hit song will be about as memorable as Gerald Ford's Vice President.

But maybe this can change if I see more of this!

The police found the body of train wreck Paula Goodspeed on the lawn of train wreck Paula Abdul. According to Reuters, the death appeared to be an overdose on prescription drugs. In Paula Goodspeed's car was in the Paula's car with Abdul CD's and pictures of her.

Ok, first of all, who in the hell has Paula Abdul CD'S? I get it if you were 12 in 1989 and you still own Forever Your Girl. But multiple CD's? Isn't that a clear sign?

That being said, I would watch American Idol for reasons like this! Crazy stalkers who go on reality TV and then take their own life on the host/judges lawn!

You didn't pick me? I'll show you by killing...myself! Ha, I win!

Here is some video of her. Please cue Twilight Zone theme:

Paula Goodspeed - Proud Mary!
by Mr-Tee

Mom, I want to die just like you, watching the Black Hawks.

2008-11-07T09:19:00.000-08:00

If I had a nickel for every mom and child that died at a hockey game, I would have 10 cents.

This week, long time Chicago Black Hawks fan Marguerite Kuhlman collapsed and died while watching her favorite team at the United Center.

The ironic part is that her mother died while watching the Blackhawks 22 years earlier at the Old Chicago Stadium.

All I can say is I hope I am never near a Kuhlman if I am watching a game in Chicago.

Can a Morning Smell Any Sweeter?

2008-11-05T08:13:00.001-08:00

In my almost 34 years of existence, I do not think I ever woke up feeling the way I do today. Maybe that will change once my child is born, but this feeling is filled with amazement and most of all, hope.

Think about it, not even 50 years ago blacks could not sit in the same section in a restaurant. It wasn't until 1959 the Boston Red Sox inserted Pumpsie Green into their lineup as their first African-American baseball player.

Now, we have our first African-American as President of the United States. A man who will walk up to the Capitol Building on steps that were built by slaves.

We have heard the voices sing "We Shall Overcome" for quite some time now. Well, for the most part and barring some sickos out there, we have.

Somewhere, Martin Luther King, Malcolm X and Rosa Parks are having a party and loving every minute of this.

And for those who say, not all is won, Proposition 8 passed. Well in my eyes, it did.

We have 5 million people in this world who believe in discrimination and you know what? How big would that number have been 4 years ago? 8 years ago?

Our society, as evident in our President Elect, is evolving. Our children will see what is wrong as does every generation. Many of the old generation and religious zealots who believe in discrimination or as my friend Ron puts it, making gay people have less value as human beings, will eventually die. Just as we saw our nation progress as does every generation, we will see this pass.

We will see this pass.

25 Million Thanks!

2008-11-04T08:15:00.000-08:00

I would like to congratulate the Church of the Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints for donating 25 million dollars to fund the Vote Yes on Proposition 8.

Lets face it. No religion on the face of the earth values marriage more than the Church of Latter Day Saints.

Thank God that money did not go to funding education programs, research to fight diseases such as Cancer or AIDS or helping shelter our homeless and hungry. But important issues such as stopping loving people who want to marry.

Maybe because it is just one person they want to marry? Nah!

Good for you Obadiah!

Run Away Timmy, they're coming!!!!

2008-10-27T16:09:00.000-07:00

As Americans, we pride ourselves in being a country that is diverse. A country that welcomes everyone with open arms. Unfortunately, many cultures, let alone genders have had to struggle to gain respect and their rights along the way.

When you see a country on the verge of electing its first African American President or if an upset is made, female Vice-President, you think we have come a long way. Somehow, it just does not feel like it and this time, it hits where I live.

Here in California, we have a Proposition called Prop 8. Prop 8 is an initiative that would eliminate the right for Same-Sex couples to marry. Many conservatives and religious zealots fear gay marriage because of what it could mean for society and their children who may have to learn about this in school. Many of those who are for this proposition feel they have progressed by “allowing” civil unions and feel that is enough. How very Christian of them.

The ads for why people are against it are quite hysterical:

First of all, what school even teaches this or has children books on marriage? Are their children’s books on why Mommy is an angry monster for one week every month? So let’s say a child does bring a book home, what is the difference in teaching this and letting them know where babies come from? You have to tell them the truth right?

When people get married, most do so for love, commitment, keeping immigrants in the country and bets. Ok, maybe not the latter. But basically it is a legal and registered relationship between a “husband and wife.” Married couples even have the benefit to file taxes jointly and raise their own children together.

Now Civil Unions are only recognized in a handful of states including California. If you think about it, C.U. has many of the same rights as married couples. Partners have federal benefits, such as if a partner dies assuming his or hers Social Security Benefits, sick leave for if your partner becomes ill, tax breaks, veterans benefits and insurance breaks.

So it seems the main difference here between marriage and a civil union is that two gay/lesbian couples cannot make a child together. Besides when they show their affection towards one another in public it’s icky.

I guess having a loving Gay/Lesbian couple adopting or having a child is way worse than a woman having her 8th child for extra welfare payments, an athlete having 15 illegitimate children nationwide or teenagers having unprotected sex and becoming parents. Well if your Mom is Governor of Alaska, you may have some cash coming in.

Once again, progress has stopped in its tracks. As a nation we have a chance to do something special, yet there are those out there who are scared beyond belief of 8 year old Timmy learning about homosexuals. This is much worse than hearing about murders on television or hearing about the War in Iraq.

Run away Timmy, the homosexuals are coming!!!

Seriously, wouldn’t monsters be more friendly if they all sounded and looked like Paul Lynde?

There are more important things to worry about people.

So say Obama was an Arab

2008-10-20T08:59:00.001-07:00

After hearing that woman at the Sarah Palin rally not wanting to vote for Obama because he was an “Arab,” I did not know whether to laugh or feel upset. However, the more I thought about it, I wondered how people actually view me? Well, other than being that loud obnoxious guy.

I do know that when I talk to most people, they usually do not see a Lebanese guy. I am always amazed at the reaction though once I tell them I am Lebanese. It is almost like I just came out of the closet or told them something shocking such as, I have 7 illegitimate children in Thailand.

Really??

I cannot believe it!

No Way!

Prior to September of 2001, I really did not get that reaction. It probably wasn’t until I graduated high school that I embraced it because, to be honest, I was somewhat embarrassed. In reality, there were not many Arabs around me growing up and all the Armenian kids were so Armenian that I needed a flag to sail on my lawn.

Plus, it’s not like I was Asian or Black where you wear your ethnicity on your skin. But outside of family where I did embrace my culture, I told everyone I was Italian, which is not a lie because I am through my great-grandmother. But I am not Italian enough to start a Scungilli farm.

These McCain/Palin rallies are beyond scary and not because you can barely see a person of color. Just the reactions of what people seem to believe makes it evident that they want the “South” to rise again.

Ok, so what if Obama is an Arab, Black or Muslim? What is so wrong with that? Isn’t that what makes America so great? Did my generation learn anything from the School House Rock Song the “Great American Melting Pot?”

Just watch this video and tell me your reaction:

Do any of these people who are voting for McCain really understand who Arabs, Muslims or anyone who is not white are? Let’s stick with Arabs here. Take a look at this list. Many of them share the same views and were in the cabinets of Republican Presidents:

• Selwa Roosevelt, American Ambassador and longest-serving White House Chief of Protocol (1982-1989)
• George Mitchell, Former U.S. Senate Majority Leader; Lebanese on his mother's side.
• Donna Shalala, Former Secretary of State for Health and Human Services under the Clinton Administration (and the longest to serve in the post)
• John E. Sununu Sr, Former Governor (NH) and White House Chief of Staff (1989-1991)
• John Elway
• Doug Flutie
• Bobby Rahal
EVEN A NASCAR DRIVER! COME ON NOW!

My family has been in the US since the 1860’s. They have served in World Wars I and II, Korea and Vietnam for you, me and everyone in between. I won’t even get into my cousin Bobby sacrificing his own life 7 years ago. All of them shared the same vision, and that of course is the American Dream.

The funny thing is most Arabs here and overseas, share the same values and beliefs as most conservative Republicans. Some may say, even more so. Yet for some reason, many of the non Arab culture think we are going to ride around on our magic carpets and murder the masses as we scream AY YI YI YI YI holding a machete.

I am in fact in the minority in my family for being liberal. Which of course makes it all the much better when I hear they are not voting for McCain. That really shows you something is wrong in this current state of affairs if Arab-Americans are not voting Republican.

Maybe there is a change coming after all…

Jesus is a Democrat!

2008-09-17T16:29:00.001-07:00

It really is a shame that elections that are close come down to church and state. It furstrates me when people politicize 2 things in our country that have nothing to do with each other. Even at the Republican National Convention, you could drink everytime you heard God's name. So here is my reasoning why Jesus is really a Democrat,in addition to a hip-hop producer and NFL coach.

Please keep in mind that although I am Catholic, I am not religous whatsoever. So here is my Top Ten list.

10. He uses natural resources to solve hunger
9. He loves everyone
8. He is a teacher and most teachers that do not live in backwards states that teach creationism are democrats.
7. He was on top of our health care system. I mean, who else could heal the lepers?
6. He never got angry. Just a little ticked when he wondered why he was getting cruicified.
5. Acknowledges and helps Hurricane victims. Remember, he calmed a storm on the Sea of Galilee.
4. Cut taxes from the Wealthy - Remember when he performed a simple miracle in order to satisfy those who demanded the temple tax.
3. He brought the booze and shared with all!
2. When a country was lost, he led the way rather then setting us further apart.
1. He's Jewish!!!

7 Years Ago

2008-09-11T08:51:00.000-07:00

Man, has it truly been seven years that this happened? I think many of this generation, let alone anyone old enough can talk about where they were when this happened.

Jill and I were still living in San Francisco. After I got out of the shower she said it looks like a plane has hit the WTC. I really did not think about too much as I thought it was a small plane. Then on the radio, I found out it was a 747. I began to freak out because I thought to myself, my cousin Paul works there and I hope he is ok. Then another plane hit and then the buildings fell. I started to get worried. I remember I arrived at my desk at work very nervous. I went into my supervisor’s office and literally cried. Anyone who knows me, I am not emotional in sad events. Heck, I do not even cry at funerals and read the obituaries. Yet, somehow I was upset and I just went home.

I remember just being numb, like the life was sucked out of me for about a week. I spoke with my Dad that day and he told me that Paul was ok. Like the shmuck I was, I emailed Paul to ask me for details of what it was like. My Dad though gave me some other shocking news, that my cousin Bobby was supposed to be at the WTC and so far nobody heard from him.

So the day goes by and nothing from Bobby. We also found out, he was going to the WTC for a seminar to better himself. Days went by and we heard nothing. Like so many of the families, our family sent out alerts looking for him and pictures. Unfortunately, he was gone.

Let’s make one thing clear. I knew who Bobby was, but in my lifetime, I do not believe we ever met and I know we never spoke on the phone. But I felt a connection for one reason, Deraney. For anyone that knows me, I love my family more than anything. Whether the last name is Deraney, Boustany, Kearns, Kassis or Gabor, I will fight for them, regardless of the situation and without hesitation.

Other than my immediate family, I never was really close to the Deraney side. After my grandparents divorced and the eventual death of my Grandfather, the Deraney family was something you heard about from others. But I always kept an ear out because it is my family and plain and simple I really wanted to be part of it but did not know how.

So a few days after the tragedy, I started getting forwards from Michelle (Mimi) Haobsh who was Bobby’s sister. I also knew of Mimi and realized, God forbid something else happens (thank God I did) and I would never talk to her or anyone else on that side of the Deraney family that was so far removed from my world.

So, I decided to email her. I introduced myself in case she had no idea who I was and almost immediately, Mimi and I started emailing each other back and forth on a daily basis. We both admitted to each other that we were always anticipating emails from each other every day like school kids. She would tell me about times with my Dad and my grandfather (her Uncle Ray) and about her family. I told her how much everyone loved her mom, Aunt Gette, and all the great things my Dad would say about her. She told me that she had Breast Cancer (which at the time was in remission) and how instrumental Bobby was in helping her seek treatment.

Now, I talk with my family on that side constantly. I even found out that more Deraney’s that were also suffering Miami Dolphin fans like myself. What are the chances of that? If it was not for Bobby and this horrible day, I would not have met Mimi, who passed away 2 years ago and would never have known my Deraney cousins, Aunts and Uncles.

Thank you Bobby for the best gift I could receive, my family. You are truly missed by all and I am forever grateful of the sacrifice you and thousands of others have made.

The Great American Melting Pot

2008-09-03T08:28:00.001-07:00

It really is fascinating to watch the Democratic National Convention and the Republican National Convention.

Both are high energy events that bristle with enthusiasm. People from all over come to hear speeches from candidates who relate how exactly they feel.

Now if you go back and watch the conventions, take a look at the crowds when the camera is panning around. How many people of race can you count at the RNC and DNC?

I mean, regardless of how you feel to your party, I think it is safe to say that one party celebrates diversity of not only what this country is about, but also what the world is all about. Black, White, Hispanic, young and old from all over the country came out with one mission, change.

The other party? It's the good ol' boys. Seriously, how many white haired men and women were in the crowd over the age of 60? I am not sure if I saw anyone of color, let alone different color of hair at the convention. If there was, you probably could count it on a hand or two.

Xenophobia is alive and well. Or maybe just phobia which seems to be more of the message.

McCain, what are you thinking?

2008-08-29T09:43:00.000-07:00

Seriously, what in the world is John McCain thinking.

Let's say McCain dies. We have a person taking over with about as much experience as the kid who cleans erasers in class. I think it is wonderful that he selected a woman, but one with no experience?

A mayor of a town the size of a locker room and a governor of a state that pretty much runs itself? I cannot wait to see Biden against her in a debate. He is going to mop her up faster than the pine sol lady. Finally a VP debate worth watching.

Smoking and Driving

2008-05-14T08:59:00.000-07:00

OK, I get the need for people to smoke. But why can't people put their cigarette butts in an ashtray when they are done?

Seriously, you are willing to stink up the car, your clothes and ruin your lungs. But heaven forbid you keep the finished product in the ashtray and toss it out the window.