POMEROY’S RANT

A good friend to the rescue.

A little over a year ago, this blog started out as a political blog with some other subjects injected from time to time. Since the election of our 44^th President, I’ve watched the rhetoric become hate-filled and even violent by the extreme elements in both parties, but mostly the far, far radical right of the Republican Party. This is troubling to me and as a result, I find myself wanting to disengage. My goal with this blog is to provoke thoughtful, respectful and intellectual discussion of the issues facing our country. I have no desire to engage in the cynicism of today’s political dialogue.

It’s one thing to disagree with our President on the issues. It is by far, another “thing” entirely when you simply say, “I don’t think he’s American” because he doesn’t look like you or his name doesn’t “sound” American.

I could go “into the weeds” on all that has happened since the Healthcare legislation was signed into law, but why bother? Where would I start? The lies from the opposition party about the contents of this legislation? The “come armed and dangerous” statements from the extremists who use code words in a very poor attempt to hide their true feelings about our African-American President? The “we’re loosing our country” and “we want our country back” statements from these same groups? Just asking the questions, I’ve spent more time than any of this blather warrants. And I’m saddened to see how much attention is given to all of this by media.

So why did I call this post, “Pomeroy’s Rant?”

A very good friend for many years noticed that I had not written a post in quite some time. (This is mostly due to my far more hectic work and music schedule. Things are currently moving at a rapid pace in my life and unfortunately, blogging is not a top priority. But I digress.)

He sent me a rant in an e-mail and it brought a huge smile to my face. (BTW – He’s a Republican/Conservative, in the truest sense of what that means, not what we’ve seen lately from the party and the movement.) Here’s nearly all of what he had to say – I added the graphics:

Hi Mike,

Since I haven’t seen a rant from you lately, I thought I’d give some cannon fodder. 

I am sick and tired of:

     1) “Send this on to all your email contacts and you’ll have a blessing  from God at 1:01 AM this morning…”

     2) “President Obama’s birth certificate is false… verified evidence!” 

     3) “The new Health Plan establishes death panels for the aged!”

     4) “Abortions will be paid for by our taxes!” 

     5) “Sarah Palin is a qualified air-head!”

And the one this morning that just set me off, for no good reason… 

     6) “Cell phone numbers are about to made public – Register your cell phone number in a do-not-call registry or you will be charged for each telemarketing call!” 

Excuse my French: this “sh*t” is unsubstantiated rhetoric by (a) manipulative few attempting to dissuade others’ emotions by use of nothing less than basic, contrived propaganda. People that pass this stuff on are ignorant and irresponsible. 

At minimum, it’s clogging internet bandwidth with drivel. In the middle, it’s occupying people’s minds and emotions with unimportant things. At maximum, it distracts the public mind (collective) of our country in the wrong directions.

Mike, I’m basically Republican based and therefore we have some political differences BUT you substantiate your views and I respect them even though I may disagree with some of them. That makes us good friends because we can share differing points of view without beating each other senseless. I wish our Congress had the good sense (to) behave similarly and constructively but it seems they don’t. 

As one that believes in Christ’s death on the cross in payment for my sins (note that I don’t use the term “Christian” because that now draws wrath due to vast numbers of “Christians” that show little to no understanding of scripture and/or twist it to their own perverse purposes – a whole ‘nother rant by itself) …I have had it with the tripe that friends send me that is emotionally conceived and totally inaccurate.

As a believer in Christ, I accept… my responsibility to further truth, not mindless, creative, fictional crap. There’s enough dissention in the world without creating more out of thin air. I check the validity of anything I pass on or state that I have not been able to verify the “source.”  Remember when quality journalism required proof of the source before publication?

Would I sound ridiculously “religious” if I say that Satan works predominately through minor deceptions, falsehoods and little white lies to draw otherwise good, intelligent people away from real truth and occupy their minds with emotional drivel instead of God and His will in their lives? Maybe so, but that’s how I see it. Right now, I don’t see much truth, anywhere! All I see is money paths and deception. 

Mike, this has nothing to do with anything you’ve written. As I’ve said, I may disagree with a couple of your points but I respect the difference and you. Supported points are well taken. I just got another one of these mindless emails (and it) put me over (the) edge. You’ve got the front-site for good “rants” and I give this one to you. Elaborate/edit as you wish, please. I trust you.

Have fun with it, Geoff

Now that’s what I call speaking “truth-to-power.”

Amen, brother.

Sincerely,

www.MichaelKontras.com

PS – Hey Geoff: want to start a radio talk show? I think we’d make a pretty good team. The concept would be totally new – an independent conservative and an independent progressive in the same room, live, communicating without the threat of violence. Wouldn’t that be refreshing? Actually, it would probably be too boring for today’s ADD audiences. 🙂

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ANIMAL INSTINCT

“I firmly believe she will say or do something that will completely eliminate her from even considering a Presidential bid – ever.” 

My quote back in July, from Not in 2012 – Not Ever, seems to have become reality. Sarah Palin’s book, “Going Rogue: An American Life,” has eliminated any hopes she might have for a presidential bid. This golden opportunity to show she could possibly have some depth and gravitas as a viable national candidate has been squandered on petty gossip and fabrications about last year’s election and her version of events within the McCain Campaign. At least 18 statements were debunked within hours of the book’s release.

And sales?

NewsMax.com is offering the book for FREE with a subscription to their magazine. This means they had to have purchased thousands of copies at a ridiculously low price for this promotion.

According to MediaMatters.com, the book, which was released November 16, 2009, can be purchased at Amazon, Walmart and Target, among other retailers for $9 and less. It is also being used as a loss leader to attract customers. By comparison, Barack Obama’s two books, which were written in 1996 and 2006 are still selling for over $25.00 each.

Sarah’s quest for fame appears to be far more important to her than seeking elected office. Personally, I think she knows she can’t hold up under any real media scrutiny, and does not intend to be a candidate for any office. For entertainment’s sake, I hope I’m wrong.

And now, it seems that some may be looking beyond the former governor to the “next” Sarah Palin – Carrie Prejean. Lest you think I jest, here’s what Rep. Jason Caffetz (R-UT) has to say about the now infamous, un-holier-than-thou, Ms. Prejean.

I wonder how his wife of 18 years feels about the sex-video beauty queen?

Is the Conservative Movement embracing beauty instead of brains? Is animal instinct now a part of the vetting process? Why would anyone think that either of these women are remotely capable of winning an election for any national office? If you’re anti-gay, you qualify? If you’re Pro-Life, you qualify?

Does it matter that both are clueless on the foreign and domestic issues affecting our country?

Apparently not.

Sincerely,

www.MichaelKontras.com

NOT IN 2012 – NOT EVER

When she debuted at the RNC Convention last year, she delivered her speech very well. What many people don’t know is that not one word was hers. The speech was written by one of the best speechwriters in the business, Matthew Scully – a writer for George W. Bush. Her ability to deliver the speech via teleprompter came from her experience as a local sportscaster. She rehearsed the speech for several days (with teleprompters), away from the media spotlight.

This was the only way the McCain Campaign was going to gain traction.

It worked until Sarah had to be Sarah:

After these interviews, media and entertainers had a field day:

Pundit World tells us “the Republican base really loves her.” What they are not saying is that this does not represent nearly enough votes to win the Republican nomination for President, much less the Presidency.

While  7 out of 10 Republicans say they would vote for Palin for President in 2012, only 1 out of 5 Americans identify themselves as Republicans.

122,394,724 voted in 2008.

Based on these figures, approximately 24,500,000 people consider themselves Republican. That translates into 17,200,000 votes for Sarah Palin in the 2012 election. Even if she split the independent vote (27% in 2008) with Obama – a highly unlikely scenario – she would add approximately 16,500,000 votes.

Based on her current popularity, Sarah Palin would get approximately 24% of the vote in the 2012 Presidential election.

These facts are not lost on level-headed Republicans. They know Palin can’t win. So do many others. If Obama’s first term is even slightly successful, no Republican can win in 2012.

Then again, that might be the very reason to nominate Palin.

Get her bid for President out of the way in 2012 (figuratively throw her to the wolves) so that a viable contender can run against what may very well be an open field of Democrats in 2016. (Joe Biden will be 74 years old on November 20, 2016.) If she waits until 2016, she would be going up against qualified candidates with the gravitas she’ll never have.

You can’t teach what Sarah Palin needs to learn.

I firmly believe she will say or do something that will completely eliminate her from even considering a Presidential bid – ever. Quitting her job as Alaska’s Governor mid-way through the first term with ethics charges flying is a very good indication of how she handles responsibility. Again, level-headed Republicans are aware.

Sarah Palin will not be the Republican nominee for President.

Not in 2012.

Not ever.

Sincerely,

 

 

www.MichaelKontras.com

IMAGINE THAT

We Americans are an interesting bunch. We’re a combination of different backgrounds, ethnicities and religious beliefs. We like to think we are a generous people. We believe we are the hardest workers in the world with unmatched capabilities to research and develop new industries and technologies.

The above said, it stands to reason that we are a blend of the different labels that are used to categorize us by media and politicians – Republican, Democrat, Independent, Conservative and Liberal.  But national polling would have us believe we fall into only one category with a chance that some also fall slightly into a second.

I disagree.

Surely, you’re not surprised. 🙂

Traveling this country over the years, I’ve learned most people are not defined by a single category as the polls would indicate, but instead, by portions of many categories. At our core, we Americans are both individually unique and collectively similar.

Most of us believe we are open-minded and willing to listen to others. We believe we are firm in our faith, following our denomination’s teachings, especially as they relate to accepting those of different cultures. Most of us know that there will be change in our lives – whether we like it or not – and therefore, cannot always be bound by the rules of previous generations. For the most part, we are a peaceful people, co-existing in a very diverse nation.

So, based on the paragraphs above, what “category” do we really fall into? Let’s look at the above traits as a dictionary definition: 

a. Not limited to established views: accepting of new ideas:

b. Tolerant of the cultures of others; broad-minded;

Most of my family members and – on a much broader scale – my friends and acquaintances, would probably agree they fall somewhere within these definitions. If I were to have a heart-to-heart conversation with any of them, we may find some minor differences, but nothing earth-shattering.

That is, until the conversation turns to politics or religion. Then the term “earth-shattering” becomes an understatement. Many of the very same people who would agree with me, or I with them, about most of the general life issues described above, are suddenly miles apart. How does that happen? What causes people who appear to care about each other, about their community, their church, their family and  friends, to be so divided over these two subjects?

I don’t have an answer.

If I were to speculate, I would say that most of what is said during conversations about politics or religion comes from what has been heard, and not from conclusions that were derived through extensive personal research, reflection and experience. As these conversations “heat up,” defensiveness increases, especially when questions requiring real honesty are asked. I don’t know if this is an attempt to hide a lack of knowledge or it is simply discomfort due to a perceived attack on one’s integrity. Either way, when conversations digress to this level, I exit.

However, as a nation, it does seem we’re progressing in our dialogue. There are big shifts occurring and for the first time in a long time (if ever), the change is coming from the grassroots – not from the top. We are slowly but surely – with some discomfort – taking our country back from those who would divide us into separate categories so as to keep us from the basic commonality that binds all Americans.

BTW – Here’s an actual dictionary definition of the traits I discussed at the beginning of this post:

“a. Not limited to or by established, traditional, orthodox, or authoritarian attitudes, views, or dogmas; free from bigotry.

b. Favoring proposals for reform, open to new ideas for progress, and tolerant of the ideas and behavior of others; broad-minded.”

It’s the definition of liberal. 

Imagine that.

Sincerely,

 

 

www.MichaelKontras.com

WHAT HAPPENED, JON?

How does a man with an incredible film career, which includes an Oscar, and four Oscar nominations, become so fearful of another man? Why would he intentionally make false statements about him? Why would he allow his illustrious career to get reduced to this? Is this how he wants to be remembered when he leaves this earth – the man who was afraid of something that wasn’t true? How fearful do you have to be to call any human being the “False Prophet?” Does he understand what he’s saying?

Jon Voight is very passionate about his love of the Jewish People and Israel. Most of us in this country can not only sympathize with his passion, but are in complete agreement that Israel should remain intact and independent.

What I don’t understand is how Jon came to believe that our President is somehow anti-Israel.

Barack Obama launched his campaign for the Presidency in the home of the late Rabbi Arnold Jacob Wolfe. (FOX News said it was at the home of Bill Ayers. That’s a lie.)

Here’s what Rabbi Wolfe had to say about then candidate, Barack Obama.

Also during his campaign, Obama gave a very pro-Israeli speech at AIPAC. 

Our President’s desire to assist in creating peace between the Palestinians and the Israelis is hardly an anti-Israeli position. Obviously, the 1948 War of Independence, the 1956 Sinai War , the 1967 Six Day War  and  1973 Yom Kippur War haven’t brought lasting peace between Arabs and Jews. Is it wrong to want to try something new? Isn’t it time to live in the moment, and not continue to fight the last 60+ years over and over again?

Neither country is without fault in this conflict. If the Israelis are settling in areas that are not theirs, then that has to stop. If the Palestinians are lobbing bombs into Israel, that too has to stop. In his speech in Cairo, Obama firmly said that these two countries must find common ground, create a lasting agreement and quickly move to implement that agreement.

Our role must be one that supports peace between Israel and Palestine. What that peace looks like has to be defined by them, not us. We can only voice our opinion and if requested by them, help to facilitate the communications.

I certainly hope that Jon learns more about our President’s position before he continues to make speeches that incorrectly state that position.

I want to remember Jon for the joy he brought to the millions of us who have enjoyed his films over the years.

I don’t want to remember him as just another radical speaker at a Republican Fundraiser. 

I find it interesting that those who say they “are scared” have no desire to squelch their fear. Instead, they choose to live with it, exploit it and blame someone else for it.

Thank God our founding fathers didn’t live that way.

Sincerely,

 

 

www.MichaelKontras.com

OLDEST SON OF AN OLDEST SON – VOL. 1

 

He was moving to the west coast to follow his dream.

Accompanied by his fiancée, one of his buddies, the cat, and two trailers pulled with a four-door sedan and a small pick-up, he and the others waved goodbye as I snapped the pictures on that cold, wet, winter morning.

It was January 2, 2000. My oldest son, Adam, spent the previous day at the house, sharing stories, feelings and dreams. I probably knew then his move was going to be permanent.

 

It’s a trait I share with both of my sons: always look forward, avoid looking back and live in the moment.

I certainly knew what he was feeling, completely understanding his desire to follow his dream. Anyone who has shifted their thinking from the conformity of their upbringing understands. There is an internal “voice” that seems to guide you in a different direction from what you were raised to believe. I was the first family member in my generation to chart a different course from the Greek Orthodox/Republican surroundings of my adolescence. I was probably not the most popular son or nephew but my brother and cousins thought it was “pretty cool.” Decades later, I learned that some of my cousins were silently cheering for me in my “revolt against the establishment.” I’m sure some of Adam’s cousins are doing the same thing. His younger brother stays in regular contact with him.

Once I became a parent, I knew I would never stifle my children’s dreams. Adam’s decision to go into the entertainment industry was entirely his. His brother is succeeding at his own dream, albeit a very different choice than Adam’s. Both grew up watching me work at my dream  – the rehearsals, the performances and the recording sessions.

Adam writes about his departure this way. Little did he know that on that day he would make history by becoming the world’s FIRST video blogger, or vlogger. 

 

 

So here we are, nearly ten years later.

Saying “so much has happened” is beyond cliché. You can learn all the history at The Official Journey. He has not only privately shared much with me over the years (maybe too much – there are things a father doesn’t NEED to know), but in huge gestures of selflessness, has INCLUDED me in his successes: sharing the stage, introducing me to people in the industry and allowing me to experience “behind the scenes” events that very few people will ever know. There are no words to describe my gratitude.

But this series is about now. As I’m permitted to reveal events in his life, I will reveal my thoughts on those events. Hopefully, I will be able to witness some first-hand. It’s challenging when we’re 2,258 miles apart. (Google Maps, just in case you’re wondering.)

Some major events – all for the good – have taken place in the last five days that could change his life. Industry “heavyweights” are involved. I’ll comment on the events as soon as they are made public by those “heavyweights.”

Until then, I will tell no tale before it’s time. 🙂

Sincerely,

 

 

www.MichaelKontras.com

NO BEEF?

Two weeks ago, the Obama Administration showed their brilliant strategic thinking by suggesting that Rush Limbaugh is now the leader of the Republican Party. Rush and the media took the bait – hook, line and sinker. (See Checkers and Chess)

Here we go again.

As is customarily done by the minority party, the Republicans are criticizing the President’s 2010 Budget. On March 24th the President asked why the Republicans have not presented their budget plan. At that time, there was no Republican plan – only amendments. Then two days later, their “budget” miraculously appeared.

I put the word “budget” in quotes for a reason. Here’s their plan. For those that don’t want to read through it, here’s a quick two-point analysis and the reason for my title:

(1) The plan is 19 pages. I’ve had to present small church budgets that had more pages. Here’s the President’s plan – 142 pages.

(2) There are no real numbers in the plan. Let me repeat this in case you missed it: THERE WERE NO REAL NUMBERS PRESENTED IN THE REPUBLICAN BUDGET PLAN.

Huh?

Here’s the gotcha: The Republicans are the opposition / minority party and therefore, are not required to present a budget. So why would these seasoned politicians allow themselves to be baited into doing something that they didn’t have to do? Then, to add insult to injury, they try to fake their way through a press conference presenting a pretty blue binder with less pages inside than a grocery store newsletter.

The Republican leaders have been in Washington for years. Don’t they know how to play the game better than a former junior senator? They campaigned saying that then candidate Obama did not have enough experience to handle the presidency.

Really? It seems to me the “rookie” just sidelined his opponents – again.

Needless to say, the questions started flying from the press about the lack of numerical data in the plan. It was obvious the Republicans were not ready.

In a very weak attempt to respond, Minority Leader Rep. John Boehner (R-OH), had to back track on calling the document a budget, instead calling it a blueprint for the budget that they “…will present next week.”

Maybe that’s when they’ll add the beef.

At this moment, I’m actually starting to become genuinely concerned about the state of the Republican Party.

Okay, the moment passed.

Now, I’d like an 10oz. Angus Burger, medium well, with fries and a cool one.

Sincerely,

 

 

www.MichaelKontras.com