digitalxtreme

[digitalxtreme]

Kavanaugh Vote Today...

I am truly disgusted with what is happening. When a nominee willfully lies under oath (perjury) while testifying to the Senate Judicial Committee, that was grounds enough to be disqualified let alone being removed from his currently held circuit judicial appointment. How he can sit in judgment or preside over cases that will have major impacts on our country, rights, protections, and laws when he has shown to not speak honestly or have honor? 

The sexual misconduct allegations are credible and very serious. They must be thoroughly and openly investigated by looking at ALL the evidence and talking to ALL who have information regarding it no matter how long it takes. It must also be a completely transparent investigation as someone who is accused of criminal activity while accepting a nomination to the highest court in the land has no right to confidentiality or privacy concerning anything revolving around the investigation. However, when you have an openly criminal act before Congress and the American people that is grounds enough to have put a stop to this nomination proceeding. That is saying we as a country are not concerned he willfully and premeditatively committed a crime (not alleged but proven fact we all witnessed it) that would land anybody else in jail most certainly. For example, this will also be like having a murderer preside over murder cases when he is on the bench. Our very rights, protections, equality, and lives will now be in grave danger.

I know we are a republic, but when 1/3 of the citizens have more control over what happens than the vast majority that is not democracy at all. That word should never be used to describe what we have. Majority rule is not “mob rule”. Whoever even suggested that correlation is ignorant. Look up the literal definitions of the words for yourself (especially the word mob). The combined wisdom, enlightenment, evolved mentality, and humanity of the majority must always supersede any out-dated ideology of the regressive/anti-progressive minority (greed, racism, white supremacy, sexual/gender orientation bigotry, misogyny, and especially theocracy which is in direct violation of the constitution). We fought a revolutionary war to gain our freedom and independence from just such out-dated ideologies. We fought to gain our independence from the oppressive greed and rule of the King of England along with the oppression of the Church of England. 

History will record this is the straw that broke the camel’s back and plunged this country into civil or revolutionary war. I truly hope it can be avoided, but I fear this will lead to it. Trump has only brought to the surface what has always existed, we are a country of two completely opposing sides. These two sides have an absolutely opposing set of morals, values, ethics, integrity, and character. The two sides have completely opposing ideologies and definitions of right vs. wrong. One side is the majority, and the other the minority. They should keep that in mind. The majority have had to fight most of their lives just to survive while the other has pretty much never had to deal with any real life-threatening peril, conditions, poverty, bigotry, or oppression. They minority have lived a life of privilege and wealth (most of which was unethically obtained) and will be massively outnumbered and out-skilled if a conflict should break out. Their obsession with greed, white supremacy, bigotry, privilege, materialism, and theocracy will be their undoing and demise. You can only push the masses so far before that turn on you and terminate your oppressive undeserved control. History has shown this to be the outcome when the oppressive goes too far. Thomas Jefferson said that “ the tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants”. While very profound and probably true, I would have hoped that they had not dishonorably proceeded with this appointment. R.I.P. liberty, equality, freedom, and the once honorable USA.

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I truly wish I was not at the point I am to be writing this. Sometimes in life no matter how hard you try, you still end up with an endgame scenario. I am no perfect angle and have made my fair share of mistakes, but these last few years I have made every effort to be the best person I could even though I have faced overwhelming challenges from my failing health. I have almost always had to face this alone with little to no real help. I really have tried to do the best I could considering and always be there for my friends no matter the cost to me. Many would not be here if I hadn’t help. I love my friends dearly, don’t get me wrong. I understand most are going through their own problems and can’t be bothered with a 53 y/o dying man even though I may have helped them out of trouble many times. It just sucks that I am in my desperate hour and there is no one I can turn to at all.

Some know part of my troubles, but even those that know me the best are not aware of everything. I basically have two problems that are both equally bad and will leave me unable to sustain my existence. One is a medical issue concerns losing a very necessary Doctor that allowed me to at least somewhat function without being in unbearable pain. I may be able to find a way to just endure it but on top of my failing health that is a tall order for sure. The second is a situation I had hoped that I would have been able to figure out an answer for before it became impossible. As some of you know I am on Disability and have been declared permanently disabled by the courts. While I can still do certain things in a very limited capacity, I have no hope of getting and maintaining a job like this. The problem is that I do not get enough on Disability to pay all my bills. I have been exhausting what little money I had saved to maintain myself up until this point. I own a travel trailer that I live in but still have to pay space rental and utilities, car insurance, phone, and so on. I am embarrassed to say that after I pay my lot rental for the trailer, I only have $250 to pay all my other bills and live on.

I am not one who likes to ask or beg for help. I know this is probably futile anyway. I am by myself with no one to count on at all. I don’t have any local support or people I can get any assistance from. I just figured I would give it a try to reach out to all that have known me, ones I have helped in the past and present, ones that just know me from the internet, or anybody else out there compassionate to help me to reach a sustainable situation and not have to give into what my mind keeps telling me the only realistic answer based on my current situation. I would be extremely grateful for any realistic suggestions or help. This is my most desperate hour. I know I am not someone young, but isn’t all life precious and worthy of saving? If you want to try to help, please contact me on social media or at my email address digitalxtremepro@gmail.com to discuss it. I hope 

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The rise and fall of one of my most beloved shows: The Walking Dead

Back in the day if someone had ever said that AMC would turn out some of my all-time favorite Television Series, I would have laughed hysterically. Boy, I was wrong. Breaking Bad will probably hold the top-ranked place for non-science fiction (which is my favorite genre) on my list of all time Television series. The casting, production, writing, and direction were of a level not seen in TV production for a long time (since the launch of moronic, sub-par, talentless, & cheap “Reality Shows” that were an affront to the industry I spent 25+ years working in) and finally marked the return of quality TV done by professionals. When it concluded I was truly sad to see it go because I had invested so much in the characters and storyline that it was like losing an old friend.

Being someone that has always been a fan of horror and zombie genres (mainly due to George A. Romero’s Night Of The Living Dead & Dawn Of The Dead), I was overjoyed that AMC would be producing a zombie apocalypse type show that if it was done right would replace the soon to conclude Breaking Bad as my favorite to watch. I had never read any of the comics before the show aired, so I was basically a completely virgin to the Walking Dead story. Once I got into the show I started comparing and foreshadowing events to come in the series from the comics. 

From that very scene of Rick and the little girl Walker, I was hooked. I thought to myself that AMC has surprised me again with another high-quality TV series with some serious talent. I knew I was in for one hell of a ride and again highly invested in the characters and storyline. The first 3 seasons were great providing me with an experience that I had a cult-like relationship with. Everyone knew not to disturb me while watching the show and it had my entire attention.

Season 4 and 5 were still really good even though there were times it dragged but necessary for character/storyline establishment. Its main appeal was the Governor/Woodberry/Prison storyline. Also, Season 4 is when Scott Gimple took over as Showrunner and the show started to morph (note this was the start of the show’s demise).

Then came season 6 where I found myself losing interest and would do multitasking type activities while watching the show. The show had switched from the Walkers being the threat to fellow living survivors being the danger. The storylines started to drag and The Walkers became more of a secondary background obstacle. The pendulum had swung way too far to the other side and the production quality along with the storyline took a severe hit. The Actors and crew did an excellent job of trying to maintain the momentum, but the weaker storylines and mistakes seem to increase with each episode. 

The “Jump The Shark” moment happened in the Season 7 premiere with the overly gruesome and graphic deaths of two beloved characters at hands of Negan and Lucille. I am not one that is easily affected by graphic violence being depicted on a TV show, but it even turned my stomach to the point I will never watch that episode again. AMC had forgotten the diverse demographics of who watched the show (which included children) that lost them a lot of loyal viewers that night to never return. Yes, the show has a gruesome history & nature, but this graphic depiction of two “living” characters brains getting bashed in was over the top (the same impact storywise could have been achieved without being so graphic). Then you have the whole Negan/Saviors storyline that has played out far too long (Governor/Woodberry was just the right length) and is still playing out in Season 8. Even more loyal viewers have stopped watching due to this very issue. I was honestly unsure if it would be renewed for a 9th season (which I think it barely was).

The final straw for me was the death of Carl which I will explain in more detail in an accompanying blog. Suffice to say that on 2/25/18 (The Mid-Season 8 Premiere) will be the end of the road and storyline for this loyal fan. This is my personal choice (though shared by many) and I am in no way trying to influence others on what to do.

I truly want to thank all the great Actors, Crew, Producers (except the one that destroyed the show), Writers, and Directors for all their hard work on The Walking Dead. You really turned out a great and iconic TV series that was beloved by millions and we are very grateful. It will be missed and never forgotten. I wish all of you good luck in your future endeavors and hope this experience will be one you cherish as much as your fans do.  

One last thing, for those that would say that those of us that feel this way and are ending our Walking Dead journey/viewership with Carl’s death are not true fans, you are absolutely WRONG. A true fan call also be one that not only has a loyalty to the show but also to the actors, to the comic’s based storyline with only minor changes that never involves killing off the top main characters essential to the established storyline, and to the integrity of the production's treatment of the principals (cast/crew/fans). 

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A farewell tribute to Carl Grimes & continued fan support for Chandler Riggs...

Tonight marks the untimely, illogical, & scandal-ridden death of one of the most beloved characters (and many considered the main character) of The Walking Dead. It has sparked considerable emotion (mostly sadness/anger) and ripples through the fan base that has brought many of us to make this our final episode of the series. I went into greater detail about the derailment of the show in an accompanying blog, but want to focus strictly on Carl’s (Chandler) demise on the show.

The means of his death are an insult to the character, Chandler, the show, fellow cast members, and the fans. Having survived all the things he had up to this point, to be taken out because he tripped is pathetic. He should have gone out in a blaze of glory more befitting his established persona than this total 180 they try to get us to buy into that frankly is insulting. For many of us, it was an unforeseen trauma that has also been soiled further by the actions of the former Showrunner Scott Gimple.

To fully grasp this situation we must first establish a few things and put others in perspective. When we were first introduced to Carl (Chandler) in season 1 it just felt right. I mean we would be able to experience a horrifying apocalyptic event through the eyes and perspective of a child that has to become a man (and very quickly) in such a hostile environment. For a seasoned actor, this would be a challenge. Chandler was a mere 10 years old stepping into some intense shoes to fill. While he had his critics, far more of us really appreciated his talent and devotion to bringing the character to life. We literally watched Carl/Chandler grow and mature right before our eyes. We experienced a wide variety of emotions and pride just as it was our own child, brother, or friend through his evolving talent and maturity. The relationship many felt with his character and with him in real life is a rarely achieved accomplishment by any actor. We saw him through all the challenges of growing up both in the storyline and in his personal life which he had to balance. That again is a very hard thing to do. I think Chandler handled them with professionalism and dedication but also allowed himself to be a kid. 

To this day he still handles the situation very maturely and with the wisdom that sometimes you have to bite your tongue to protect your career. That is why you don’t see Chandler putting a certain individual on blast for the utter betrayal, lies, and financial losses he suffered from false empty promises of another 3 years on the show. He will most likely maintain this composure on The Talking Dead right after the premiere, but we will all know the real truth no matter how AMC, TWD, Gimple, or Chris to try to spin it.

As many of us had come to believe that the story we were seeing played out weekly on our TVs was a recounting of the events by “old man” Carl who was the last of the original survivors and now the leader in the future. As I stated before that for many of us Carl was the main character. The fact that he is still very much an alive and major character in the comics only fueled this belief and solidified Carl’s survival even though they have gone against the comics version in the past. This is such a deviation that it totally destroys the storyline genre to a point that many of us can not continue to watch or support this atrocity. 

Now that we have established those points, we must move into the truly dark part of all this. When the news of Carl’s impending demise surfaced, many of us were stunned in disbelief as Chandler had not given any hints of this (again showing restraint on his part to protect his career). Then the famous Tweet by his father laying out what had actually happened and how deeply it had hurt Chandler emerged (which he has since deleted probably due NDA restrictions).

He was under the impression from Gimple that he had minimum of another 3 years left on the show which prompted him to purchase a house near the main production facility of the show (for which I am pretty sure he has probably dumped since at most likely a loss) and make plans to attend a college in close proximity to the show instead of attending the college he preferred and was accepted to in Alabama to accommodate the show filming. To make things even worse he was fired by Gimple two weeks before his 18th Birthday (how cruel and low was that?). The news was also a shock, very disturbing, and traumatic to his fellow actors on the show. I spent 25+ years of my life working in Television Production and fully aware how cutthroat, backstabbing, and disloyal it can be. 

For some foolish reason, I felt this production was different and there was a true sense of family that transcended just the cast, crew, writers, directors, and fans. I thought it was felt by everyone all the way up to the top executives of the show. I was sadly wrong. Many fans share my feelings of betrayal by Gimple and are outraged beyond any hope of forgiving this transgression. Many have petitioned to have Gimple fired but AMC further inflamed the situation by promoting him, this also almost guarantees the demise of FTWD even with the Morgan cross-over as he now oversees that show also. I don’t think TWD will see a season 10 (but I could be wrong), and the ratings after the Mid-Season premiere episode will be a telltale sign. We all have nothing but respect for all the actors (past & present) along with all that have worked so hard to make the show possible (except Gimple). It is sad such a great show has lost its mojo, but is not a reflection on anybody else but Gimple.

As for Chandler, we wish him all the best in his future endeavors (which he has already filmed 2 movies) and much success in his new musical career under the name of Eclipse. 

He has already released a great single (Hold On feat. Lolaby) that I thoroughly enjoyed and purchased right away (available on iTunes, Spotify, and many other sources). I hope all of his fans will join me in supporting his musical aspirations and continuing actor career. You a very talented young man with a bright future ahead of you Chandler, and we stand loyally committed fans. 

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World Mental Health Day...

Today is World Mental Health Day and its timing is rather pertinent to recent events. As someone who suffers from Clinical Depression, Anxiety, and Panic Attacks I am all too familiar with how devastating these conditions are. 

People suffering from these conditions all too often do so in utter seclusion, despair, and loneliness. The stigmatism, stereotyping, and fear of being locked away like a rabid animal prevents most from seeking help with it. Think how harmful it is for someone already feeling totally desperate, alienated, and life is a miserably futile endeavor being subject to such further trauma. Pills and so-called protective restraining are not always necessary or therapeutic. Then you have family and friends while they care often avoid dealing with it as it is too uncomfortable. Also, you have those that will say to suck it up and stop being so emotional because everybody experiences it. Nobody likes dealing with negativity nor a chronically depressed person. Think how it is for them when everybody avoids and shuns them. Maybe all they need is someone to care, be patient, and give them a reason to feel apart instead of an outcast. There are those that suffer from mental disabilities that are caused by genetic/physical reasons, severely poor health, or actually mental disorders. Others may suffer from a feeling of not fitting in, having different interests than others, being of a different orientation, and so on. Having grown up myself in a highly judgemental conservative city/family, I found it almost unbearable having to always put on a show and live a complete lie. I can’t help but think that if I had grown up under far more accommodating conditions, I would not be so depressed today. 

The reason I mention all this is with all the craziness going on in this country, people suffering from mental health issues are affected by it much more. When you have two completely opposing ideologies constantly at each other's throats instead of doing the intelligent thing of separating as we will never play well together, constant acts of unimaginable violence being played out in real time, and an enormous amount of natural disasters it can have disastrous results on those already mentally strained to the limits. Taking away their benefits/help, ignoring them, and further adding to their already extreme feelings of desperation only leads to deadly results. I truly fear we are heading towards a total loss of our humanity if we continue down this path laid out by evil now in power. The well being and equal treatment of all our Citizens must always be paramount. Economics, politics, and religion are of far less important than our humanity.

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How to deal with friends and family in Hurricane Irma path during and after the storm for dummies...

It is kind of sad that such things need to be stated, but we do live in a society where people have to be told not to eat the gel packs that come in packaging. The biggest thing is to try to think before you speak or act. Use some common sense and not agitate an already stressful situation for them with stupidity. Here are some helpful guidelines for those that are too stupid to think logically:

1- We will most certainly lose power for an extended period of time. That means things like our phone will rely on the charge it has to see us through until we can safely charge them. You should avoid calling, FaceTiming, Skyping, or over texting them as they need to conserve the battery as much as possible. If you must communicate please text saying all that needs to be said in one text and be specific so they don’t have to guess or over think what you are talking about. No conversation type texting sentence by sentence. If you must call, keep it extremely brief and to the point. Don’t send links to stories or photos that are not necessary as this just drains their battery needlessly. They could be without power for days or longer. It is not safe to rush out to your car right after the storm passes as there may be down power lines, flooding, dangerous animals, or other hazards that could place them in jeopardy trying to charge their phone. 

2 - Don’t offer unrealistic, stupid, or things you would not do yourself advice. Nothing pisses someone off that is going through this more than a bunch of Backseat Quarterbacks making stupid suggestions or uninformed judgment calls about our situation. Just be supportive, help any way you can to get the things they ASK FOR. 

3 - Remember these people may have just lost everything they own, people or pets they care about, or just generally traumatized by the experience. Be empathetic and compassionate. Not the time for jokes for patronizing. Don’t try to make it about you or dare to bring up extremely trivial troubles in your life as a comparison. Don’t be condescending or make them feel in your debt for helping them. You know common decency type stuff.

4 - Don’ t say stupid shit like that is what you get for living in Florida or because God is upset with you or any other tacky cold hearted shit. Don’t say how much better where you live is, or how great the weather is where you are, or how you don’t have to worry about Hurricanes where you live, and so on. Totally rude, inconsiderate, and classless things to say.

5 - Mainly just think before you speak or act. Put yourself in their position and imagine the horror of what they are going through. Think about what would piss you off if the roles were reversed and someone did it to you. Be an empathic human being and not a complete douche bag. Offer the help you can, provide support, be encouraging, and above all remember it is all about them at the minute and not you. 

Just hope this will avoid a lot of stupidity happening and maybe just maybe save a friendship or family relation from ending over ignorance and insensitivity.

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My Situation & Hurricane Irma...

I want to thank everybody for their concern regarding the impending severe hurricane that is inbound to me by all recent projected weather models being forecast. I realize that many want to offer suggestions or advice concerning this situation, and I appreciate it. I just need to get a few things clear so there are no misunderstandings or undue escalation of the extreme anxiety and stress I am already experiencing.

I have lived in Florida most of my life and have been through quite a few hurricanes in my time including Andrew that was very devastating. So, as you can imagine this is not new to me, and I am very aware of the precautions I need to be taking and when. I am also very closely and intensely tracking the storm’s progress, path, intensity, and warnings. It is the foremost thing on my mind and will remain so until the danger has passed. I can assure everyone that I am doing everything in my limited abilities/resources to prepare for the storm. I DO NOT have the money or ability to evacuate at all and must bunker down and ride it out. I appreciate everybody saying to get out of here, but that is just not possible given my current situation. I am a 52 y/o disabled man in very poor health that is trying to do all this by myself with zero physical or financial help. I have many things that I am going to try to do to secure my situation as best as possible with what I have to work with and at the mercy of my physical ability to perform these tasks and time constraints. I wish I was as lucky as others that can just pick up and evacuate on the drop of a dime and also have more than themselves to rely on to accomplish that. I am not that fortunate. It is not anyone’s fault, just a horrific reality. I also suffer from extreme anxiety and panic attacks, have greatly reduced mobility, and in constant pain that makes it difficult to get through a normal day as I have been this way for going on 5 years now with no relief as my condition continues to deteriorate. As you can imagine this makes day to day life quite hard not to mention now having a severely dangerous hurricane on a path to hit me that could destroy everything I have. This is going to be very challenging for me to get through and I hope everyone will understand all this before offering suggestions that are not possible for me, make light of the situation, or reinforce my already high anxiety level about the situation by reminding me how screwed I probably am. After seeing what happened in Houston, believe me, I am fully stressing already about the possible horrors I face. I ask that people please be encouraging, supportive, realistic, compassionate, and understanding about how this affecting me. I ask you to treat this situation the same way you would want to be treated if you were facing it will all the disadvantages I am going into it with and taking into consideration all that I have clearly stated here before saying things that would only insult my intelligence, increase my anxiety, be unrealistically patronizing, or be pointless that were clearly detailed above as impossibilities for me to do. This is a potentially very serious situation that I have to go into serious survival mode and going to be pushing my health and mental status to extreme limits.

I truly hope that the storm does not hit me with the predicted intensity, or changes course away from me (not towards Houston though). All I can do is prepare the best I can, and hope for the best. Again I want to thank everybody for their concern and well wishes. It does mean a lot and is comforting. Hopefully, in a week I will be able to report I weathered the storm ok with minimal to no damage. I also hope all my fellow Floridians are also safe and we are able to dodge this nightmare somehow. With the devastation from Harvey, Houston is already trying to recover from a severe hurricane’s damage and this one in quick succession to it I can only imagine how far stretched the resources will be to launch any type help for Florida. I would never want to take away from those already suffering in Houston. Let’s hope for the best, but prepare for the worst. Good luck everybody!!!

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Aaron Carter...

Today I was saddened to see my friend Aaron Carter be bullied into suspending all his social media accounts from the relentless, cruel, heartless, totally unproven accusations, insults, attacks on his character/appearance, and trolling by people that get off making others miserable. It is reprehensible the comments that people have been leaving on his social media for the sole purpose of tearing down another built on completely superficial and circumstantial evidence. He has repeatedly explained in depth (even though he didn’t have to) his current tragedies and that he has medical issues. Nobody on this earth is perfect, and we ALL make mistakes. None of us have perfect bodies or will meet everyone’s definition of beauty. While he may be too thin in certain people’s eyes, I see nothing wrong with his appearance to the level that people are exaggerating it to be. He has lean, cut, low body fat percentage build. Not everybody wants to look like an ape or pack on unneeded pounds of fat that both unhealthy and not necessarily attractive to everybody. The only opinion that matters is how people feel about themselves. The mentality that is being used is no different than saying that if your mother happens to be standing on a street corner (waiting to cross the road or for a bus) it automatically makes her a hooker. That is exactly the level of logic being used to condemn Aaron and it is immorally sickening. I am in no way implying Aaron is a perfect saint but does not deserve the level of pure evil hate he is receiving. I am thankful that Aaron has some loyal and caring fans, family, and friends that will never turn their back on him. I truly hope he can continue to find comfort and receive support from us to help him through these difficult times. We do care Aaron and are here when you need us. Stay strong and take the time you need to heal. I am including Aaron’ s last tweets since he has suspended his account for those who have not seen them.

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Pulse, one year later...

Today is the one-year anniversary of the tragedy at Pulse Nightclub here in Orlando. I can’t believe it has been a whole year since that fateful night when a radicalized lone wolf terrorist took the lives of 49 innocent victims and injured 58 others. The injuries were not limited to those only in attendance that night, it also shook the LBGTQ community to its core. It was an attack most vile that once again proved that minorities are no more safe than they were decades ago. That prejudice, bigotry, ignorance, and perversely contorted religious beliefs are still the real danger that threatens all humanity. It may have been labeled the worst mass shooting in United States history, but it far worse than that. It was a direct assault on LGBTQ community. Many want to deny or placate that correlation, but that is an ignorantly dismissive stance brought about by their own prejudices.

What adds to this is the extremely charged climate of hate is the immoral and unethical spewings of “45″, Pence, their administration, thier surrogates, the Tea Party, and The Freedom Caucus. Thier vile, deploreable, and prejudicial rhetoric has energized the worst of the human conidition into a freenzy of genocidal aggression and oppression of all minority groups. They intice the weak minded with delusional promises of wealth building, instilling feelings of false superiority, and denial of privledge. They employ deception, manipulation, dishonesty, and covert actions to bring about the same type goals as ISIS by way of subterfuge instead of outright acts of direct violence. They are a clear and present danger of equal proportion to ISIS, and in many ways a far more imminant threat to the citizens of United States on our soil.

If we are to truly honor those that lost their lives or horribly injured that night, we must not let them win. We must stand as a united force to be reckoned with, and will never relent in our fight against bigotry and hatred. We must send a clear message that we will never tollerate these immoral beliefs and actions, and will work villigantly to erradicate them from the face of the earth. This is the 21st century, and those that wish to stagnate or impede progress by hanging onto outdated unenlightened ideolgies are absolute enemies to mankind. They can scream about promoting “divisiveness” all they want, but competely opposing core values that define one’s moral compass are not mere differences of opinion. Just as murder, rape, and child molesting are absolutes in being wrong so is prejudice, bigotry, and oppression based in religion. R.I.P. Pulse victims...

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K.I.S.S. principal... Time for a Divorce.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/KISS_principle

Everyday I read article, after article of citizens who are screaming out in utter frustration/discontent with the state of our union. I can't avoid coming to one overwhelming conclusion from all the bickering, and total lack of cohesion our country has been plagued with since it’s beginning (but recently has come to a head). We were basically doomed to failure from the start by trying to integrate totally opposing ideologies, beliefs, and moral compasses. I mean the difference in Conservatism, and liberalism is as diametrically opposing as it can get. Each side absolutely believe their ideology is singularly righteous, and the other is inherently evil. I’m pretty sure everybody that can take a logical, and realistic appraisal of the situation would agree this is a recipe for disaster. 

Having said that, I think it is high time we start looking into a realistic and permanent solution to this intolerable dilemma. Common ground association based on occupying the same continent, or assumed alliance based on the “We are all Americans” rhetoric is delusional at best. For example we are all humans. Does that mean that I should have a desire to align myself with (or be tolerant of) murders, rapist, and child molesters just because they are also humans? I know that is an extreme example, but to many the differences between Conservative and Liberal ideologies is seen just as deplorable by either side. The whole balance through the pendulum swinging back, and forth is doing nothing more than promoting never ending discourse. We are NEVER going to see eye to eye on many deeply held beliefs, and continuing this only further builds animosity/hatred. Why live in misery, and forced oppression at the hands each other’s time at bat? Why continue this failed marriage of irreconcilable differences? It’s time for a divorce.

Like any divorce, there will be an equal dividing of assets. None of this get out of my country BS. Both sides have equal claims to the assets. We should just split this country in two. Each side governing based on their deeply held convictions, and thereby not oppressing the other side. “What about the independents?” Well, all independents lean to one side or the other. They should go with he side they feel most comfortable with. “What about the Military?” Same principal, assists divided in half. We can still do joint campaigns that both sides agree upon, and do independent ones when the other side doesn’t agree. “What about the debt?” Again, everything is split equally in half. I could go on and on, but you get the idea. Wouldn’t it be nice to live amongst fellow citizens that has the same core beliefs you do, and not be oppressed by ones that you morally/ethically oppose? “We are stronger together, than apart” I disagree when it is more than a simple difference of opinion/policy, but rather a completely different definition of right vs. wrong. “That will never work” Really? I think that it would. Will it be easy? Hell no at first. It will take time to adjust, and adapt. Better to spend the time and money permanent fixing the problem rather than continuing the same failed integration that is eventually going to lead to a civil war, or a revolutionary war. Everybody has their breaking point, and I think we are on a fast rack to just that. Every major superpower has fallen before us, and I think it’s just a matter of time before it happens here if we do not act quickly to recognize these irreconcilable differences. How can we live in harmony with others that we have zero respect for, and who’s core beliefs are completely reprehensible to us? Bash my conclusions all you want if you can verbalize a better permanent solution that would accomplish what I have stated, including the harmony of not being oppressed by opposing ideologies that contradict your most deeply held convictions. I just long for this to come to an end so we ALL can begin living happy, productive, and harmonious lives in a two separate countries (where the failed one once stood) now occupied with fellow citizens sharing true common ground deeply held core beliefs.

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SIRI “112″ joke... Dangerous, Reckless, and Causes Real Harm.

I am making this blog in an attempt to point out just how irresponsible, and dangerous it is to trick someone into making an unintentional call to 911. It has real repercussions, places people’s lives in danger, and causes tangible harm to people.

Early this morning (4am) I was going through my Facebook feed to pass the time as I often get up throughout the night due to my disabling conditions that prevent me from sleeping normally. Most of the time it is not an issue until this morning. I came across a post that suggest everybody activate SIRI, and say “112″. I thought it would be one of those humorous replies from SIRI that are often quite funny. To my surprise it initiated a call to 911 that I could not stop in time as I was a little groggy from just getting up. I explained to the dispatcher what had happened, and she said it happens far to often to innocent people like me. What people do not realize that post these things thinking it is a mere prank is that it comes with serious consequences to the victim. Most State Laws require that a 911 call must result in a dispatch of Emergency Services to the location no matter if it was stated to be a mistake. This is the part that can cause serious harm to the victim, and others. In my case it has now made me subject to criminal prosecution, and I must now appear in court to a Judge to explain what happened hoping they let it go. This costs tax payers money, the victim money, and possible conviction of a crime that was neither intentional or necessary. Then you have the whole danger of the responders that risked their lives speeding to a truly non emergency situation that could have caused an accident resulting in other innocent people being injured or killed. Then you have the whole issue of the emergency vehicles being committed to a non emergency that may delay their response to a true emergency that again could result in serious harm or death to other innocent people. I could go on and on, but you get the point. I also have the concern now that the place I rent a Travel Trailer spot from may kick me out for causing a totally unnecessary disturbance at 4am. As you can see there are actual repercussions to such childish pranks.

I implore everyone to use common sense, and not post such childishly dangerous pranks that involve 911 emergency services. It is not funny, and could lead to innocent deaths and harm. I also implore Apple to remove said feature immediately, or at the very least remove it from working in countries that do not use it to call for emergencies (I would have expected if I said “911″ it would have called 911, but since “112″ is not used in The United States I had no idea). I know Apple you will say that people visiting the US are used to it, and it would be dangerous to remove it. I say it is far more dangerous to have it as the vast majority living here do not understand it’s meaning. I would also argue that most visitors would know about our “911″. I hope that anyone that has this joke on their social media remove it immediately, and that legislators move quickly to pass serious laws regarding this absolutely criminal prank that would impose serious jail time for offenders.

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“2016″ - A Star Wars Like Story

Maybe it’s just me, but I can’t dismiss the absolute correlations between current events, and the story premise behind the Star Wars franchise. This is no way a slam against Star Wars at all, but a revelation of how close it tracks the current horrific environment we all face now.

Both are the classic story line of Good vs. Evil with each side thinking they are Good ones. If can you truly detach your personal feelings from what is happening in a non-biased (fact only) way as a complete stranger to the situation would, you would see the similarities. I also think that you would come to same conclusion of who the “Good Guys” are based on motives, integrity, and selfless humanity based reasoning.

Look at the two side. The Jedi being the peace keeping guardians that are humble, non-materialistic, knowledge seeking, devout believers of improving the human condition for all equally, defending the righteous values of the republic/democracy, defending and empowering the weak, compassionate, and instilling a peaceful coexistence with all. Then you have the Sith that only seek power and greed. They employ deplorable tactics of oppression, intimidation, fear, perversion of religion, preying on the weak minded, infiltrating the governing bodies by outdated means that does not represent the true will of the majority, violence, building an overwhelming military, crushing the opposition by any means necessary (no matter how unethical/immoral they are), silencing the voices of opposition, occupation, promising peace when their true intentions are directly the opposite, and manipulating hate. They want to conquer, not coexist. They lust for power, wealth, and materialistic wants. Now you have current opposing forces of Liberals, and Conservatives. I will not state it hear as I feel everybody is capable of coming to the correct conclusion based on the facts, but it is a very clear picture of who is representative of the Jedi and the Sith. 

It’s a constant back, and forth. You have a period of harmonious coexistence under the control of the Jedi, and then you have the dark times under the Sith where people live in fear and oppression. The only people that thrive under the Sith are the power hungry, greedy, selfish, warped religious zealots, and privileged. While we are heading into those dark times again, it also enrages the people to rebel. Yes, there will be losses on both sides. The downfall of the Jedi only occurs when they fail to adapt, and fight the battle based on rules that the other side does not abide by. We must seek out, and destroy the Sith. No mercy, no compassion, and no exceptions. It’s time to break the cycle, and restore equality based peace to the country for a long time instead of 4 years at a time. Some say that the Republic needs to be like a pendulum that swings back and forth to balance things. I say Bullshit!!! There is nothing that the Sith bring to the table that is so great to tolerate/overlook the evil, hate, oppression, and lack of integrity they bring.

We have lost so many famous Jedi (and some famous Sith) this year, and it has been a hard year to live through. Let’s not make the loss of our humanity, liberty, equality, righteous/integrity based superiority, and our country to the Sith easy for them. We must fight against their warped theocratical, greed, and oppressive occupation of our government with ever resource at our disposal. We must not show them one ounce of the narcissistic respect they demand. We must sabotage anything they try to accomplish just like they did to our side the past eight years. Those that are willing to sacrifice those virtues in the name of fake unity, never had them in the first place. Your deeply held beliefs, and values should never be compromised. The Force is strong with the Rebellion, and we will prevail in the end. May The Force be with us all in the dark times ahead, and the loss of life and equality be minimized under the oppressive rule of the Sith. Yes, I went there. Just painting a visualization that some may find easier to grasp, and wrap their head around using Star Wars as a metaphorical example.

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QUOTE OF THE DAY:

I listened as they called my President a Muslim (as if it were a bad thing). I listened as they called him a monkey. I listened as they said he wasn't born here. I watched as they blocked every single path to progress that they could. I saw the pictures of him as Hitler. I listened as they openly said that they will oppose him at every turn. I watched as they did just that. I listened and I watched and I paid attention. Now, I'm being called on to be tolerant. To move forward. To "Get over it." To accept this...

I will not. I will do my part to make sure this great American mistake becomes the embarrassing footnote of our history that it deserves to be, as quickly as possible. I will do my part to limit the damage that this man can do to my country. I will vote. I will watch his every move and point out every single mistake and misdeed in a loud and proud voice. Do not call for my tolerance. I've tolerated all I can. Now it's their turn to tolerate ridicule. Be aware, make no mistake about it, every single thing that goes wrong in our country from this day forward is now Trump's fault just as much as they thought it was Obama's. I find it unreasonable for them to expect from me what they were entirely unwilling to give.

They will find no shelter here. -- Stephanie J. Greggs

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The realistic truth...

We are engulfed in one of the most troubling times in American history. This cycle can not be compared to any previous one due to extremity of what has transpired, and continues to. This election has highly polarized our nation, and empowered the worst that humanity has to offer. Exploitation of hate, bigotry, malcontents, fears, greed, religion, and race have propelled us into a conflict that took over a year to fully materialize, and it will take that a lot longer to undo what has been done. To expect everybody to turn off their highly charged emotions, hurt, and anger like a light switch is delusional at best. You can not enrage half the country to level of civil war talk, and think everything will just go back to normal in a speedy manor. How naive some people are to even for a second believe that. To even attempt to heal this nation, we must be realistic about all this. We have to identify what atrocities have occurred (and still are), hold those accountable that committed said atrocities, and take necessary steps to make those whole again that have been negatively affected by said atrocities. There is no other answer other than splitting this country in two. We are facing almost the same circumstances figuratively that our forefathers faced when it rebelled against King George, and The Church of England. People will only take so much and true patriots will never submit to bigoted, religious, or economic oppression no matter form it may take or BS justification given.

If conservatives really want everybody to give Trump a chance, then ALL attacks or attempts to diminish/deny any citizens human rights, humanity, compassion, charitable ideologies, equal protection/treatment under the law, access to affordable and equal quality health care (including protection against pre-existing conditions), Disability Benefits, Social Security Benefits, Medicare/Medicaid Benefits, and minimum wage rights must immediately and totally be abandoned. Also all bigoted actions against citizen’s race, orientation, gender, sex, or age. There is no compromise on these issues, nor should there be. Don’t even try that tolerance bullshit, as there can never have tolerance for exploiting such things in a modern and enlightened society that would harm disadvantaged citizens. That is not what America is about. To even suggest it is majorly part of the problem. The GOP, Trump, and Pence must publicly denounce and condemn anyone that supports, condones, or practices such deplorable ideologies. 

Want unity and for the opposition to give Trump a chance, then the most controversial and divisive stances need to be abandoned to allow healing. Pouring salt in the wound, keeping up the enraging ideologies that do not promote unity or common ground are not going to get you anywhere. Those negatively affected are not going to bend over and take it willingly, nor quietly go into the night. We are at an impasse and breaking point in this country. The ball is in your court, and thinking that people are going to submit to being oppressed or treated as sub-human is completely illogical and foolish. Do not expect the opposition to do what you would not be unwilling to if the roles were reversed. As I recall Obama has been treated with the most disrespect any US President has had to endure. Anything he attempted to do was constantly, and summarily blockaded. He was insulted, subjected to racial bigotry, viciously attacked, had his religion/citizenship/patriotism questioned constantly, and dehumanized. He was protested against relentlessly. He was demonized from day one, and congressional GOP members publicly said they would vote down anything he did from his original Election Day before even taking office. How can you honestly expect the other side to not act in kind to an even more controversial president? I mean really, did you actually think he is owed any more respect that you showed Obama? What’s good for the goose, is good for the gander. Take your hypocrisy, and firmly plant it where the majority of your selfish/greedy/opressive ideologies come from. Your ass!!! 

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Unity??? Why??? Realist view...

In light of the recent most controversial election in the USA’s history, why do people call for unity in direct conflict with your own best interest and that of humanity? This is a quite perplexing question, and the very premise defies all intelligent logic. Please hear me out, and give me a chance to fully state my case.

Each election we have winners, and losers. Due to current political restraints, they only realistically fall into two categories. Democrats, and Republicans. This very concept precludes any unity in and of itself. The two sides are so diametrically opposed in core beliefs, ideologies, practices, and ways of life that so called “finding common ground” is fleeting and detrimental to each sides most deeply held convictions.  They are as different as night and day, and to pretend that doesn’t matter is self defeating and foolish. Why are some people so hell bent on so called “unity” that forces oppression, unhappiness, censorship, disfranchisement, and inequality in one side or the other’s lives depending on who has control of the government? Why not look into solutions that allow each side to live in harmony with people that share their same deeply held convictions? Why do we force unwanted desegregation of people that we will never ever see eye to eye on core beliefs, and ways of life? These are the questions that haunt me on a daily basis, and I for one feel are at the core of all the tension, unrest, unhappiness, suffering, oppression, and hatred that is being felt across this country.

To me being able to live free, harmonious, unrestricted, and joyfully with people of like lifestyles and beliefs outweighs any negative aspects that might be manifested by forming two countries out of this troubled dysfunctional one we must endure now. I mean how wonderful it would be that we live in a country that we do not have to constantly fight with your fellow citizens over our most deeply held beliefs, and can concentrate on making everyone’s life better as a whole. Let’s be entirely realistic here. Do you really, honestly, and totally believe that you are going to change all these opposing people’s core beliefs on a large scale? I do not even for a second believe that is possible when you have organized religion, greed, bigotry, hypocrisy, and ignorance in play. Not going to happen. Diversity is fine in certain criteria, but never in core beliefs and convictions that oppresses your fellow citizens. Why can’t we as a nation agree to disagree, and realize the only true lasting viable option that will allow people to live the lives they want unrestricted by diametrically opposing beliefs is by forming two nations that cater to the conservative, and progressive ideologies respectively? Seems so simple to me, and would make lives so much fulfilling and happier for all concerned. Stronger together, than apart? I disagree. Stronger would be defending your country where the people in it share your same deeply held beliefs, but weaker defending a country that incorporates people that down deep you have nothing but utter contempt for each other. Each side would be able to live the lifestyle they have chosen free from oppression, restrictions, abusive laws, bigotry, enslavement, political unhappiness, and discontent with your fellow citizens. Seems like a perfect solution to me. Segregation based on race, sex, age, bigotry, and so on is absolutely wrong. Segregation based on diametrically opposing deeply held convictions, ideologies, and beliefs is almost certainly necessitated and logical.

We are never going to have peaceful, harmonious, productive, and fulfilling lives when you are forced to endure dehumanizing oppression at the hands of a government that doesn’t even come close to having your core beliefs. The few (and I stress few) common ground beliefs can never make up for sacrificing you core convictions. To expect that is illogical, self destructive, and unacceptable. This “if you don’t like it, get out of my country” talk by gloating conservatives is laughable (I’ll bet I have as much, or more claim to this country than most). Why not split it up so everybody is happy, and gets what they want? Everybody will be winners then, and a hell of lot happier. Just trying to be realistic, suggest a lasting solution, and saying what needs to be said. Thanks for reading. I hope you consider what I am proposing to put this all to rest permanently by embracing reality, and common sense practically definitive solutions.

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The end of Democracy and Equality in the United States...

Tonight for many Americans our worst nightmare just happened. The devastating results of this worst election is our history has yielded a horrific result. I hope all that made this nightmare a reality rejoice in the fact that you have destroyed decades of enlightened progress, and assured that if you are not a straight bible thumping white citizen that you will be treated as a sub-human. You have also crashed the market, burned The Constitution, & enslaved our citizens under Theocracy oppression in direct conflict of The Constitution. You have also told the world that we whole heartedly support greed, xenophobia, homophobia, bigotry, misogyny, narcissism, & ignorance. That we don’t care about the sick, disabled, poor, minorities, LGBT, women, children, equal protection under the law, equal rights for all our citizens, the worlds economy, our infrastructure, climate change, equal and affordable medical insurance/treatment for all, affordable higher education, homelessness, starvation, affordable medications, loosing many of our long time allies, and I could go on forever. This is the single worst event in all of USA history, and will lead to our destruction in short order. I honestly believe that this thin skinned narcissistic maniac will have us in WWIII within a year. Tonight the USA died, and a dictator run oppressive Theocracy has taken it place that will make Nazi Germany look like nothing. You have just killed us all, and if there is a hell I am positive you will all burn for eternity that made this happen. Today America became Iran west, and I am embarrassed and ashamed for us all. 

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Post election handling of Trump...

I am almost 100% sure that he will loose the election tomorrow. I have said before that my only vested interest in this election cycle is preventing The Supreme Court of The United States becoming an oppressive, and bigoted Theocracy. That still holds true. I also do not want to see such a despicable, and deplorable man come into real power. I know Hillary has her issues too, but Trump’s issues greatly outweigh any of hers greatly in my humble opinion. My desire was to see Bernie Sanders get elected, and we could finally make progressive huge leaps into a more enlightened/modern society. That did not pan out unfortunately. This election has been the worst in years on this earth, and I can not wait for it to be over. I will genuinely be relieved when I know for sure that threat of a Trump Presidency has been squashed definitively.

With that all being said, I think we need to address how to handle Trump once the election is over. We can not allow him to become some sort of martyr (I am speaking figuratively, not literally), and further divide this nation with his ignorance and volatility. I am not suggesting taking away his freedom of speech rights, but we sure as hell don’t need to enable them either. He is the biggest Narcissist to ever exist, and nothing is more punishing to one than to be ignored. They thrive on attention (good or bad), and if you take that away will be devastating to them. I implore the media to not give him one second of airtime after the election, as you have already admitted it was a huge mistake the amount you have already given him. I know you did it for ratings, but look at the monster it has created. Once the election is over, his relevance is no more than any other Joe Blow citizen in the country. The only way this guy stays relevant is if MSM gives him a platform to be so. Take that away, and hopefully he will fade quickly so that we can start the healing process. He has nothing but vitriol lies, shameless self promotion through delusions of grandeur, and hyperbole to offer that enrages the intelligence disadvantaged. His narcissism is absolutely a dangerous mental disease/defect, and we should not enable such destructive insanity. Believe me his horrid Twitter account will always be an outlet for his vile speech (unless the private company decides they no longer want to sponsor his BS anymore), and many other avenues for him that does not involve us having it in our faces on broadcast media sources. He has the right to free speech, but we don’t have to supply the outlets. I implore Broadcast Media to correct the original sin by refusing to enable his access to our TV’s and radios.

Finally to those that are so upset by all the terrible, offensive, bigoted, and harmful things he said about many people and groups can hit him where it truly hurts in his wallet. Boycott all of his companies, products, and services. His brand has already been severely damaged by fallout from his rhetoric, but we have the power to put the final nails in his economic coffin. I know some people would loose their jobs, but I truly think you would be doing them a “yuge” favor. The many people he has hurt, and companies he has bankrupted failing to pay for services and goods received alone justifies such a boycott. It will be so great to see his obnoxious name not plastered all over the place like Biff from “Back To The Future” movie. His name is not representative of success, but of corrupt business practices and the devastation he left in his wake. I mean how the hell do you bankrupt a casino (the most rigged for success businesses)? I digress. The point is you have the power to punish him, and send a distinct message that we will not tolerate such business practices and behavior by boycotting all things Trump. Lets Make America Trump Free Again!!!