With the help of my lovely bride to be, Bonnie, I have gotten on Facebook. I have to tell you that I'm addicted.
It's been 16 years or so since I have spoken to some of the people that I have become "friends" with on Facebook, but being able to catch up a little bit and see pictures of some of my old friends families has been a lot of fun.
I would never in a million years go to a high school reunion because I would be uncomfortable talking to people. I'm not the same person I was in high school and of course Im very conscious of my incredible fatness. It's kinda nice to be able to walk around the mall in Cleveland or whatever and not be recognized because I look like Jabba the Hut.
Facebook has been awesome because the people that I did like are on there and there is a casual sense about it. I mean, who knew that Jennifer Biller is having another baby and lives in Guatemala with her husband. She is doing God's work and what could be more rewarding than that.
One of my closest buddies Eric Ratcliff has a couple of kids now and lives in Cleveland. We haven't spoken much in a decade, but I think our families may hook up over the holidays to catch up.
Leslie Leach Davis teaches 4th graders and has a daughter the same age as my little Emmamonster. How perfect is that?
My point is that I am so happy to hear from these folks and find out how well they are doing. It's a really nice feeling to hear good news. I hope that Im able to chat with some other friends as I go along.
I hope everyone has a great Thanksgiving. God bless.
Clay
Sunday, November 23, 2008
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Legalizing Gaming and Gambling in Tennessee.
This is a paper that I had to write and I thought it was topical and maybe some of you with lots of free time my like to read. As always, I encourage your feedback.
"Why gambling should be legalized"
by Clay Chavis
I used to like putting an occasional bet on a football game during football season. I like to bet on stuff and I always have. Whether it be a simple bet as a child on who could skip a rock across a pond the furthest or betting $100 on the Super Bowl each year. I think gambling should be legalized. I don’t think that I was hurting anyone. In my opinion that makes it harmless, or a victimless crime. I like the action of it. See, I used to make wagers on football games every fall and winter, both college and professional, but I only bet $10 or maybe $20 per game. I didn't have much money to spend so I only bet on games that were on TV or was the “big” game of the week. This allowed me to be interested in a game I normally would not shown any interest. Obviously, I was not going to get rich shelling out that much coin, but like I said, I did it for the excitement of it. I mean, if I could have afforded the $10, then who is getting hurt. That is why I think gambling is not a crime. I think it is a vice, or maybe a bad habit, but not a crime. **For the record, I have not bet on football in 3 years....and as noble as I sound, it's been for lack of resources that have lead to my gambling abstinence**
Whether you realize it or not, but legalized gambling abounds. Let’s see, it is late in the afternoon and you are waiting in line to pay for gas at a local station. It is taking forever. The line just will not move. You ask yourself, “What is taking so long?” Of course then you realize a man is at the head of the line buying lottery tickets. He is putting down money on the chance of winning more money by purchasing these lottery tickets. I have not looked it up in Webster’s Dictionary, but this sounds a lot like gambling to me. Have you ever entered a “March Madness Basketball Pool” for maybe $5? Technically, that is gambling, and you are breaking the law. How about poker night over at a friend’s house? Again, you are gambling and it’s against the law. Of course, with these examples, you have not added a steel door to your home with four deadbolts or your not scared that the police is going to kick the door in at your friend's house while you are chip leader on poker night.
According to the Tennessee Code and local laws, gambling is illegal, but between the double standard of running a statewide lottery to raise money for government programs, and the small time element of gambling, you won’t read anything in the local papers or hear on the news about a crime involving
gambling. With the priority going to violent offenders and then white collars criminals that defraud others, it does not seem to me that the police is remotely interested in chasing down card games. I think the police have their priorities straight on this matter by the way. Go after the criminals that matter, not a bunch of married guys betting five dollars at a time.
According to the magazine “The Futurist,” an article was written in regards to legalizing gambling in January of 2007. The article stated that “A growing number of states are legalizing gambling to improve their economies and increase government revenues. However, gambling can cause social problems such as reduced productivity, gambling addiction, and crime like petty theft and fraud. Many local, regional, and state governments have been strapped for cash and feel themselves caught between diminishing support from the federal government and growing unwillingness of citizens to pay for higher taxes. “ The Futurist also stated that the stigma of gambling was more of a problem than the actual act itself. “Many people don’t understand that the legalization of gambling would have several economic benefits. Jobs would be created and the tax money from these casino’s would allow lawmakers to find a new way to stimulate the economy besides tax breaks or even raising taxes.” “The problem is that gambling is given the same social stigma as prostitution or even drug abuse.”
While gambling in many areas was once prohibited, it now is seen by many legislators as a welcome new industry.”Who better to ask about gambling than a real life bookmaker, or bookie if you will? His name is Bob and he lives a pretty normal life. I’ve personally known Bob for 7 years and he used to be my golfing buddy, so from just being around him socially I have seen him take bets in person. He doesn’t fit the “bookie” stereotype at all. Bob is a little guy. He lives in your typical middle class neighborhood and is married with two older sons. The only thing colorful about him is his language, which can be harsh. Oh, and the fact he has a funny Boston accent. My outlaw, lawbreaking, bookie friend has worked full time with the United States Postal Service as a mail carrier for nearly 20 years and only takes bets during football season.
According to Bob, “football season is king.” “I have between 25 -30 bettors that are regulars. I don’t allow anyone to bet more than $200 a game and I cut off those that can’t pay. It’s pretty simple for me, if you bet and win, then you want to get your money on payday (Tuesday) regardless of how bad I did. Nobody feels bad for when I have a bad week. Well, I expect those that owe me money to pay me just as promptly. Of course, bettors bet more than they should sometimes have dug themselves into hole and can’t pay me all my money on time. I don’t mess with threats and all that drama. I just cut them off until they have paid off their balance. It’s easy for me to erase a $300 debt. All it means is that that guy is not going to pay on time and be a hassle, so why bother with them. My regulars are great about making payments and I know some of them very well. Hell, I have at least five of my regulars over at my house for football and BBQ every Sunday. It’s really casual and not what you see in the movies.”
Bob would not tell me exactly how much money is bet or how much money he makes, but he says that it usually covers half his yearly salary. He also shared with me that his clientele ranged from doctors and attorney and everything in between.
In order to get a view about gambling that was not all ice cream and roses, I decided to conduct another interview. Dr. Roger Thompson is a professor here at UTC and was the head of the Criminal Justice Department for 12 years. He has also worked with local law enforcement in educating new police officers on the law and interacting with our local community. Dr. Thompson has had several opportunities to work out in the field with police, so he has seen how the local police conduct themselves in certain situations. I asked him a series of questions and he spoke freely on several subjects pertaining to the legalization of gaming and gambling.
,
“Gambling can affect family members and friends if the spending gets to be too much. A violent crime does not necessarily have to occur for gambling to be destructive. I don’t think that gambling itself is the culprit when life savings are dashed by betting. I think that like anything else in life, a person has to be responsible and understand what is at stake. If someone decides to put their mortgage money down on football game, then that person is not being smart and gambling just happens to be the outlet they choose to self-destruct. That being said, authorities don’t put a ton of effort in order to stop those that choose to gamble in some fashion. I think it’s because it’s a quote victimless crime. I disagree with that term, but police are concentrating on making us safer from violent offenders and those that try to defraud us. It would be asinine for cops to get organized to take down a bunch of friends playing in a card tournament. Many would feel that the police should be concentrating on bigger fish to fry. I would agree with that myself. Obviously, if someone was to make threats or draw attention to themselves by becoming violent, then the police would move quickly. As for the money, the only way it would really become relevant would be if there was such a substantial amount that organized crime from out of the state were to get involved. Everyone has seen gangster movies, but that kind of thing just doesn’t really happen. I’ve never heard of a bookie being taken down unless extortion or violence was involved. "
I wanted to go beyond the enforcement of the law and how police handled “small-time” gambling and ask him about the apparent double standard that exists with the lottery, casino boats, and other ways to gamble. I started with a question as to whether the Tennessee lottery set a bad example and was hypocritical.
In addition to the current climate in regards to policing gambling, I wanted to get Dr. Thompson’s view of whether Chattanooga would benefit from some sort of legalization of gaming. I mentioned how gambling boats in rural areas with high poverty levels like Biloxi or Tunica, MS seemed to have flourished and have brought in tons of revenue to those local areas. Tunica, for example started out with just two “casino boats,” in 1993, but now Tunica and surrounding areas have nearly 28 casinos generating millions of dollars and those monies have led directly to the urbanization of a once small town like Tunica, which is approximately 45 miles south of Memphis, TN.
According to Dr. Thompson, “Legal Gaming would be a great idea for Tennessee. Look how the lottery is working hand in hand with the Hope Scholarship for college students. However, legal gambling would be a tough sell in this area because of the moral dilemma it would bring. This is a very conservative community and I don’t think it would go over very well. Gambling has a stigma that people have a hard time overlooking even if some of the proceeds were taxed and financed other programs like the Hope. To a majority of men and women in this part of Tennessee, gambling is morally corrupt and would lead to a rise in crime and poverty. This is not to mention that gambling in many ways has the stigma of being tied together with organized crime, and the influences that come with it. Too many people in this area are stuck on ethics and not able to see the financial benefit gambling would bring and the jobs that would be created.”
In closing, I think that eventually some sort of gaming will become legal in Tennessee, whether it be a river boat on the banks below Market Street Bridge, or areas designated for gaming. The folks that run our state need to think outside the box when it comes to legalizing gambling. The economy is struggling there is no question that there is a demand. If it’s ok for a man to blow his paycheck on lottery tickets, then it should be ok for him to pull a lever and hear bells and whistles. Obviously the side effect is crime and addiction, but alcohol sales are booming right now, and booze leads to more domestic violence and other violent crimes than any other contributing factor. You know that it might be fun to play some blackjack or try my luck at the Texas Hold Em table. I think that I should have the right gamble by going “all in” instead of scratching off lottery tickets. In the end, it’s just the same.
"Why gambling should be legalized"
by Clay Chavis
I used to like putting an occasional bet on a football game during football season. I like to bet on stuff and I always have. Whether it be a simple bet as a child on who could skip a rock across a pond the furthest or betting $100 on the Super Bowl each year. I think gambling should be legalized. I don’t think that I was hurting anyone. In my opinion that makes it harmless, or a victimless crime. I like the action of it. See, I used to make wagers on football games every fall and winter, both college and professional, but I only bet $10 or maybe $20 per game. I didn't have much money to spend so I only bet on games that were on TV or was the “big” game of the week. This allowed me to be interested in a game I normally would not shown any interest. Obviously, I was not going to get rich shelling out that much coin, but like I said, I did it for the excitement of it. I mean, if I could have afforded the $10, then who is getting hurt. That is why I think gambling is not a crime. I think it is a vice, or maybe a bad habit, but not a crime. **For the record, I have not bet on football in 3 years....and as noble as I sound, it's been for lack of resources that have lead to my gambling abstinence**
Whether you realize it or not, but legalized gambling abounds. Let’s see, it is late in the afternoon and you are waiting in line to pay for gas at a local station. It is taking forever. The line just will not move. You ask yourself, “What is taking so long?” Of course then you realize a man is at the head of the line buying lottery tickets. He is putting down money on the chance of winning more money by purchasing these lottery tickets. I have not looked it up in Webster’s Dictionary, but this sounds a lot like gambling to me. Have you ever entered a “March Madness Basketball Pool” for maybe $5? Technically, that is gambling, and you are breaking the law. How about poker night over at a friend’s house? Again, you are gambling and it’s against the law. Of course, with these examples, you have not added a steel door to your home with four deadbolts or your not scared that the police is going to kick the door in at your friend's house while you are chip leader on poker night.
According to the Tennessee Code and local laws, gambling is illegal, but between the double standard of running a statewide lottery to raise money for government programs, and the small time element of gambling, you won’t read anything in the local papers or hear on the news about a crime involving
gambling. With the priority going to violent offenders and then white collars criminals that defraud others, it does not seem to me that the police is remotely interested in chasing down card games. I think the police have their priorities straight on this matter by the way. Go after the criminals that matter, not a bunch of married guys betting five dollars at a time.
According to the magazine “The Futurist,” an article was written in regards to legalizing gambling in January of 2007. The article stated that “A growing number of states are legalizing gambling to improve their economies and increase government revenues. However, gambling can cause social problems such as reduced productivity, gambling addiction, and crime like petty theft and fraud. Many local, regional, and state governments have been strapped for cash and feel themselves caught between diminishing support from the federal government and growing unwillingness of citizens to pay for higher taxes. “ The Futurist also stated that the stigma of gambling was more of a problem than the actual act itself. “Many people don’t understand that the legalization of gambling would have several economic benefits. Jobs would be created and the tax money from these casino’s would allow lawmakers to find a new way to stimulate the economy besides tax breaks or even raising taxes.” “The problem is that gambling is given the same social stigma as prostitution or even drug abuse.”
While gambling in many areas was once prohibited, it now is seen by many legislators as a welcome new industry.”Who better to ask about gambling than a real life bookmaker, or bookie if you will? His name is Bob and he lives a pretty normal life. I’ve personally known Bob for 7 years and he used to be my golfing buddy, so from just being around him socially I have seen him take bets in person. He doesn’t fit the “bookie” stereotype at all. Bob is a little guy. He lives in your typical middle class neighborhood and is married with two older sons. The only thing colorful about him is his language, which can be harsh. Oh, and the fact he has a funny Boston accent. My outlaw, lawbreaking, bookie friend has worked full time with the United States Postal Service as a mail carrier for nearly 20 years and only takes bets during football season.
According to Bob, “football season is king.” “I have between 25 -30 bettors that are regulars. I don’t allow anyone to bet more than $200 a game and I cut off those that can’t pay. It’s pretty simple for me, if you bet and win, then you want to get your money on payday (Tuesday) regardless of how bad I did. Nobody feels bad for when I have a bad week. Well, I expect those that owe me money to pay me just as promptly. Of course, bettors bet more than they should sometimes have dug themselves into hole and can’t pay me all my money on time. I don’t mess with threats and all that drama. I just cut them off until they have paid off their balance. It’s easy for me to erase a $300 debt. All it means is that that guy is not going to pay on time and be a hassle, so why bother with them. My regulars are great about making payments and I know some of them very well. Hell, I have at least five of my regulars over at my house for football and BBQ every Sunday. It’s really casual and not what you see in the movies.”
Bob would not tell me exactly how much money is bet or how much money he makes, but he says that it usually covers half his yearly salary. He also shared with me that his clientele ranged from doctors and attorney and everything in between.
In order to get a view about gambling that was not all ice cream and roses, I decided to conduct another interview. Dr. Roger Thompson is a professor here at UTC and was the head of the Criminal Justice Department for 12 years. He has also worked with local law enforcement in educating new police officers on the law and interacting with our local community. Dr. Thompson has had several opportunities to work out in the field with police, so he has seen how the local police conduct themselves in certain situations. I asked him a series of questions and he spoke freely on several subjects pertaining to the legalization of gaming and gambling.
,
“Gambling can affect family members and friends if the spending gets to be too much. A violent crime does not necessarily have to occur for gambling to be destructive. I don’t think that gambling itself is the culprit when life savings are dashed by betting. I think that like anything else in life, a person has to be responsible and understand what is at stake. If someone decides to put their mortgage money down on football game, then that person is not being smart and gambling just happens to be the outlet they choose to self-destruct. That being said, authorities don’t put a ton of effort in order to stop those that choose to gamble in some fashion. I think it’s because it’s a quote victimless crime. I disagree with that term, but police are concentrating on making us safer from violent offenders and those that try to defraud us. It would be asinine for cops to get organized to take down a bunch of friends playing in a card tournament. Many would feel that the police should be concentrating on bigger fish to fry. I would agree with that myself. Obviously, if someone was to make threats or draw attention to themselves by becoming violent, then the police would move quickly. As for the money, the only way it would really become relevant would be if there was such a substantial amount that organized crime from out of the state were to get involved. Everyone has seen gangster movies, but that kind of thing just doesn’t really happen. I’ve never heard of a bookie being taken down unless extortion or violence was involved. "
I wanted to go beyond the enforcement of the law and how police handled “small-time” gambling and ask him about the apparent double standard that exists with the lottery, casino boats, and other ways to gamble. I started with a question as to whether the Tennessee lottery set a bad example and was hypocritical.
In addition to the current climate in regards to policing gambling, I wanted to get Dr. Thompson’s view of whether Chattanooga would benefit from some sort of legalization of gaming. I mentioned how gambling boats in rural areas with high poverty levels like Biloxi or Tunica, MS seemed to have flourished and have brought in tons of revenue to those local areas. Tunica, for example started out with just two “casino boats,” in 1993, but now Tunica and surrounding areas have nearly 28 casinos generating millions of dollars and those monies have led directly to the urbanization of a once small town like Tunica, which is approximately 45 miles south of Memphis, TN.
According to Dr. Thompson, “Legal Gaming would be a great idea for Tennessee. Look how the lottery is working hand in hand with the Hope Scholarship for college students. However, legal gambling would be a tough sell in this area because of the moral dilemma it would bring. This is a very conservative community and I don’t think it would go over very well. Gambling has a stigma that people have a hard time overlooking even if some of the proceeds were taxed and financed other programs like the Hope. To a majority of men and women in this part of Tennessee, gambling is morally corrupt and would lead to a rise in crime and poverty. This is not to mention that gambling in many ways has the stigma of being tied together with organized crime, and the influences that come with it. Too many people in this area are stuck on ethics and not able to see the financial benefit gambling would bring and the jobs that would be created.”
In closing, I think that eventually some sort of gaming will become legal in Tennessee, whether it be a river boat on the banks below Market Street Bridge, or areas designated for gaming. The folks that run our state need to think outside the box when it comes to legalizing gambling. The economy is struggling there is no question that there is a demand. If it’s ok for a man to blow his paycheck on lottery tickets, then it should be ok for him to pull a lever and hear bells and whistles. Obviously the side effect is crime and addiction, but alcohol sales are booming right now, and booze leads to more domestic violence and other violent crimes than any other contributing factor. You know that it might be fun to play some blackjack or try my luck at the Texas Hold Em table. I think that I should have the right gamble by going “all in” instead of scratching off lottery tickets. In the end, it’s just the same.
Monday, November 17, 2008
What is your legacy?
Im getting older now and have not really grasped what to do about it. The few things I can control is how I treat myself and others, but there is no turning back the clock. I'm 34. Im so out of shape, it's hard to keep from huffing a puffing from walking around UTC's campus sometimes. So the first thing Im going to do is lose some weight and eat better. What good is a college degree...then a law degree, if right after the bar exam I croak.
I am envious of many people unlike me that have built there lives around helping others and sacrificing for the common good. I know several people, some that are friends, that do this and I can tell that they are happy and have a clear conscience. Me, well.....I've pretty much done the exact opposite of what would be percieved as right over the years. Pride, ego, and never being wrong have cost me a bunch, but I realized that I have a saving grace. An ace in the hole if you will.
My legacy will be my daughter. Emma Chavis is going to be one of those people that gives instead of taking. She shares with others. She has a kind heart that cannot be measured. I believe that genetically she will have all the intellect she will ever need to be successful. I believe from observing that she has athletic skill that easily surpassed what I was able to do at 8, and I was a pretty darn good athlete back in the day.
Emma is going to be beautiful as well. She has the blue eyes of an angel and someday she is going to be model like tall....maybe 6 feet even. That beauty will be something that she will never outwardly show because I see in her that she will be humble.
Emma reminds me of my sister a little bit at 8. She is never in trouble, gets good grades and is obedient to adults. She understands where that line is, and never goes past it. Stephanie was the same way. I did not have to walk up behind Steph as a little girl because she always did the right thing. Emma is very much the same way.
My ex-wife Debbie and Bonnie deserve a lot of credit for keeping Emma rolling down a straight line. There is no question that Emma is loved and cared for by so many. Relatives and friends from places like Hawaii, Tennessee, Georgia, and South Carolina love her dearly.
So, sometimes when I get to thinking about the past...or stupid crap I wish I could take back, I stop and pause and remember that I have a little angel that thinks I'm super cool and will always make me look good, and that takes a lot. Emma has greatness before her and all I need to do is stay out of the way, spoil her rotten, and love her with everything I got.
My legacy will be my daugther and how she handles adolescence and then adulthood. I feel like I am going to be a very proud father, and that is a feeling that is just incredible.
I am envious of many people unlike me that have built there lives around helping others and sacrificing for the common good. I know several people, some that are friends, that do this and I can tell that they are happy and have a clear conscience. Me, well.....I've pretty much done the exact opposite of what would be percieved as right over the years. Pride, ego, and never being wrong have cost me a bunch, but I realized that I have a saving grace. An ace in the hole if you will.
My legacy will be my daughter. Emma Chavis is going to be one of those people that gives instead of taking. She shares with others. She has a kind heart that cannot be measured. I believe that genetically she will have all the intellect she will ever need to be successful. I believe from observing that she has athletic skill that easily surpassed what I was able to do at 8, and I was a pretty darn good athlete back in the day.
Emma is going to be beautiful as well. She has the blue eyes of an angel and someday she is going to be model like tall....maybe 6 feet even. That beauty will be something that she will never outwardly show because I see in her that she will be humble.
Emma reminds me of my sister a little bit at 8. She is never in trouble, gets good grades and is obedient to adults. She understands where that line is, and never goes past it. Stephanie was the same way. I did not have to walk up behind Steph as a little girl because she always did the right thing. Emma is very much the same way.
My ex-wife Debbie and Bonnie deserve a lot of credit for keeping Emma rolling down a straight line. There is no question that Emma is loved and cared for by so many. Relatives and friends from places like Hawaii, Tennessee, Georgia, and South Carolina love her dearly.
So, sometimes when I get to thinking about the past...or stupid crap I wish I could take back, I stop and pause and remember that I have a little angel that thinks I'm super cool and will always make me look good, and that takes a lot. Emma has greatness before her and all I need to do is stay out of the way, spoil her rotten, and love her with everything I got.
My legacy will be my daugther and how she handles adolescence and then adulthood. I feel like I am going to be a very proud father, and that is a feeling that is just incredible.
Friday, November 14, 2008
Top 5 and some picks.....
Last week was pretty neat. Anybody catch that LSU-Bama game that went to overtime....FRIGGGGGGGINNNNNNNNN AWWWWWEEEESOOOOOMMMMMMMME!
Yeah...Alabama wins four more games and I will be dancing up and down British Road in my panties.
In other news....
I think the BCS is going to screw this up somehow. I just don't see Bama or Texas Tech winning out. Yeah, Im a Bama fan, but beating Auburn and then Florida....and then Oklahoma, USC, Texas, Texas Tech, or whomever is probably going to be a bit much. We are going to have 5 or 6 teams with 1 loss, and every team will have reason to be upset if they are not placed in the Championship Game.
That being said...I do think that if Bama gets past Miss State and Auburn and Florida wins out, then the SEC Championship Game will be a "semifinal" game. The winner obviously goes to Miami to play a one loss team. And yeah, Im calling it. Texas Tech will lose, so they won't be there. How about a Alabama vs. USC Championship Game......yeah that would sell some tickets!!!!
Anywhooooo.....I almost picked the score of the Bama-LSU game....so maybe Im getting better at this. (19-13)
**There aren't really any games to pick...Id just be padding my stats****
Ok, I think South Carolina will push Florida and wouldn't be surprised if they won.
1-Alabama
2-Texas Tech
3- Florida
4- Texas
5-Oklahoma
**On a personal note, Bama is going to give Miss. State a &^*&*% beatdown for the ages..**
Yeah...Alabama wins four more games and I will be dancing up and down British Road in my panties.
In other news....
I think the BCS is going to screw this up somehow. I just don't see Bama or Texas Tech winning out. Yeah, Im a Bama fan, but beating Auburn and then Florida....and then Oklahoma, USC, Texas, Texas Tech, or whomever is probably going to be a bit much. We are going to have 5 or 6 teams with 1 loss, and every team will have reason to be upset if they are not placed in the Championship Game.
That being said...I do think that if Bama gets past Miss State and Auburn and Florida wins out, then the SEC Championship Game will be a "semifinal" game. The winner obviously goes to Miami to play a one loss team. And yeah, Im calling it. Texas Tech will lose, so they won't be there. How about a Alabama vs. USC Championship Game......yeah that would sell some tickets!!!!
Anywhooooo.....I almost picked the score of the Bama-LSU game....so maybe Im getting better at this. (19-13)
**There aren't really any games to pick...Id just be padding my stats****
Ok, I think South Carolina will push Florida and wouldn't be surprised if they won.
1-Alabama
2-Texas Tech
3- Florida
4- Texas
5-Oklahoma
**On a personal note, Bama is going to give Miss. State a &^*&*% beatdown for the ages..**
What's next..
Now that the dust has cleared and Obama will be our new President on Jan 20, 2009, what can we discern from it all?
Someone very smart once said..."What is past, is prologue" In other words, those that repeat history are doomed to repeat it. But....just last Tuesday, over 51 million registered voters/citizens voted for the guy that shouted "CHANGE" from sea to shining shore. It seems every President-Elect has a gimmick...or a little bit of gamesmanship...to which helps them get elected. For Example:
Does Bill Clinton get elected if he HAD inhaled and didn't play the saxophone on Arsenio Hall?
Would George Bush Sr have gotten reelected if not for the words "No New Taxes"
Would Gore have gotten elected if he......well, I guess he did get elected...I dunno
You get my point. Well, President-Elect Obama has promised us change. This man has promised all of us that things in Washington will change? I wonder, what will he do and how will it happen.
See, I dunno if Obama knows it or not, but a word like change....to say someone in Iraq......or perhaps Yemen....or even Japan......that's a word for Revolution. See, we already did the Revolution thing.....it was years ago, but I'm pretty sure it happened.
Obama won't be able to change his socks without the rest of the governtment's approval, and although, it is mighty close, the democrats don't quite have the numbers to open the floodgates on spending and ending the War in Iraq. Personally, I think Obama was the right choice.....considering who was available, but my question has always been, Can he govern? Can he unite the parties? Can he lead? Only time will tell, but to lead, govern, or unite....he will need to understand that "you can't teach an old dog new tricks." There are Congressman and Senators on both sides of the aisle.....wanting and waiting to play Judas.
The first 100 days is the most important for a new President. After that, it becomes about approval ratings and polling. Obama must show his cards early and forcefully...or sadly, he will become ineffective quickly. If I was him....I'd start in Iraq...then the budget. If a year goes by from now...and we are still in a recession and have ANY combat personel in Iraq, then I think Obama's presidency will have failed before it started.
Someone very smart once said..."What is past, is prologue" In other words, those that repeat history are doomed to repeat it. But....just last Tuesday, over 51 million registered voters/citizens voted for the guy that shouted "CHANGE" from sea to shining shore. It seems every President-Elect has a gimmick...or a little bit of gamesmanship...to which helps them get elected. For Example:
Does Bill Clinton get elected if he HAD inhaled and didn't play the saxophone on Arsenio Hall?
Would George Bush Sr have gotten reelected if not for the words "No New Taxes"
Would Gore have gotten elected if he......well, I guess he did get elected...I dunno
You get my point. Well, President-Elect Obama has promised us change. This man has promised all of us that things in Washington will change? I wonder, what will he do and how will it happen.
See, I dunno if Obama knows it or not, but a word like change....to say someone in Iraq......or perhaps Yemen....or even Japan......that's a word for Revolution. See, we already did the Revolution thing.....it was years ago, but I'm pretty sure it happened.
Obama won't be able to change his socks without the rest of the governtment's approval, and although, it is mighty close, the democrats don't quite have the numbers to open the floodgates on spending and ending the War in Iraq. Personally, I think Obama was the right choice.....considering who was available, but my question has always been, Can he govern? Can he unite the parties? Can he lead? Only time will tell, but to lead, govern, or unite....he will need to understand that "you can't teach an old dog new tricks." There are Congressman and Senators on both sides of the aisle.....wanting and waiting to play Judas.
The first 100 days is the most important for a new President. After that, it becomes about approval ratings and polling. Obama must show his cards early and forcefully...or sadly, he will become ineffective quickly. If I was him....I'd start in Iraq...then the budget. If a year goes by from now...and we are still in a recession and have ANY combat personel in Iraq, then I think Obama's presidency will have failed before it started.
Saturday, November 8, 2008
Bad Movie Theatre Behavior...
As anyone knows, I love to go see movies. I have seen many a film by myself or with others. I love going to the movie theatre because for a couple of hours I can be alone and not be bothered. I would say I go see a movie or two a week.
I don't have a green thumb, so I don't do much yard work. I'm caught up with my classes, and if I don't have to work, I check out a flick. When Bonnie and I have "date night," it usually includes a cheap dinner and a movie. Last night, we went to the dollar theatre (actually $3 theatre now) to watch a movie called "Ghost Town." It was a pretty good flick. Im sure many of you have never heard of it, but it starred Ricky Gervais, Greg Kinnear, and Tea Leoni. It was a RomCom and that was fine.
Gervais is the guy that created the original "The Office," in England and now produces the current US version starring Steve Carell that is on NBC Thursday nights. He also did a little show on HBO called "Extras," which is a little known gem that will split your sides, especially if you like British Humor. Anyway, I will be reviewing it and "RocknRolla" (another English made movie) here soon, but I want to rant about stupid people in theatres.
I have only one rule. When the previews start, shut up!!! I know many people think that it's ok to regurgitate about their lives or whatever right up to the opening credits, but the previews are part of the movie for me. For example, the next Bond movie preview came on and of course Im stoked to see it. Two idiots behind me are chatting away at the size of the popcorn they got. "Hey dumbass, you asked for the large, what did you expect?" "Hey, have you ever been to a movie before?"
Bad movie behavior should be punishable by law. I think that our new President should do something about it. I'm "Joe the Movie Guy" and I want stricter rules. If you are one of those morons that keep getting lost in the plot "hey...what did that guy say?" or "hey....isn't she the girl from that other movie?" then the movie seat should act like a ejector seat in an F-16. Whoosh....right thru the roof you go.
My mom was the worlds worst at movie theatres, and I think that is where I get if from. She couldn't follow a muppet movie and I think she asked questions and bothered me just to be funny. She knew how much it bothered me, so she amused herself. She would do this with rentals as well.
Maybe, it was a familiar thing. My Papaw would just flat out start snoring during a movie. As soon as it got dark.....gone. I remember seeing a Clint Eastwood flick way back and I could'nt keep him awake. It was so embarassing. From what I gather, my grandmother told me he would conk out at church regularly too.
Also, if you are eating popcorn. Try not to pretend to be a holstein cow chewing cud. Jeez....close your mouth. If you cannot open the candy bag in a quiet fashion, then guess what, you're an idiot and should give your candy to me. You don't deserve it.
Finally, if you are that person that forgot to turn off their cell, you should recieve a lifetime ban. What is really frustrating is that some people will open them up and start talking. I guess the thought is....well, now that I have it, why don't I see what's up with the fellas. These are the people that I throw Sweet Tarts or Sprees at...hoping to cause a concussion.
So, next time you are at the theatre..be quiet when the previews come on...and stay that way. Chew with your mouth closed and turn your cell phone off.....or you might be ducking and airial (sp) assault of assorted candies from my row.
Chow..Clay
I don't have a green thumb, so I don't do much yard work. I'm caught up with my classes, and if I don't have to work, I check out a flick. When Bonnie and I have "date night," it usually includes a cheap dinner and a movie. Last night, we went to the dollar theatre (actually $3 theatre now) to watch a movie called "Ghost Town." It was a pretty good flick. Im sure many of you have never heard of it, but it starred Ricky Gervais, Greg Kinnear, and Tea Leoni. It was a RomCom and that was fine.
Gervais is the guy that created the original "The Office," in England and now produces the current US version starring Steve Carell that is on NBC Thursday nights. He also did a little show on HBO called "Extras," which is a little known gem that will split your sides, especially if you like British Humor. Anyway, I will be reviewing it and "RocknRolla" (another English made movie) here soon, but I want to rant about stupid people in theatres.
I have only one rule. When the previews start, shut up!!! I know many people think that it's ok to regurgitate about their lives or whatever right up to the opening credits, but the previews are part of the movie for me. For example, the next Bond movie preview came on and of course Im stoked to see it. Two idiots behind me are chatting away at the size of the popcorn they got. "Hey dumbass, you asked for the large, what did you expect?" "Hey, have you ever been to a movie before?"
Bad movie behavior should be punishable by law. I think that our new President should do something about it. I'm "Joe the Movie Guy" and I want stricter rules. If you are one of those morons that keep getting lost in the plot "hey...what did that guy say?" or "hey....isn't she the girl from that other movie?" then the movie seat should act like a ejector seat in an F-16. Whoosh....right thru the roof you go.
My mom was the worlds worst at movie theatres, and I think that is where I get if from. She couldn't follow a muppet movie and I think she asked questions and bothered me just to be funny. She knew how much it bothered me, so she amused herself. She would do this with rentals as well.
Maybe, it was a familiar thing. My Papaw would just flat out start snoring during a movie. As soon as it got dark.....gone. I remember seeing a Clint Eastwood flick way back and I could'nt keep him awake. It was so embarassing. From what I gather, my grandmother told me he would conk out at church regularly too.
Also, if you are eating popcorn. Try not to pretend to be a holstein cow chewing cud. Jeez....close your mouth. If you cannot open the candy bag in a quiet fashion, then guess what, you're an idiot and should give your candy to me. You don't deserve it.
Finally, if you are that person that forgot to turn off their cell, you should recieve a lifetime ban. What is really frustrating is that some people will open them up and start talking. I guess the thought is....well, now that I have it, why don't I see what's up with the fellas. These are the people that I throw Sweet Tarts or Sprees at...hoping to cause a concussion.
So, next time you are at the theatre..be quiet when the previews come on...and stay that way. Chew with your mouth closed and turn your cell phone off.....or you might be ducking and airial (sp) assault of assorted candies from my row.
Chow..Clay
Friday, November 7, 2008
Top 5 (Nov. 7 Edition)
Wow, what a week for college football. Texas Tech beating Texas on the last play of the game. Florida putting a stompdown on the Dawgs. Did anyone catch the multiple overtime classic between Notre Dame and Pittsburgh. The remote was humming.
However, my Crimson Tide played their homecoming opponent. The next day Bama was #1. That's frigging cool.
All that being said, the biggest news was the firing/resigning of Phil Fulmer. Fulmer won 150 games in 17 seasons (8.8 wins per season) and was shown the door last week. I don't care much for the guy for many reasons and Im glad he's gone. Like I've said before, Fulmer cleaned Alabama's clock 11 out of 16 seasons, so Im not sad he will be somewhere else. My question to UT fans would be.....can you find a guy that can win 9 games a year to replace him. Wait, that would make it even. The next UT coach needs to win an average of 10 wins a game to overcome Fulmer.
I guess the next big question will be who will be the next to get the ax. Tuberville is probably safe, and if he beats Bama for the 7th straight time, then he will get a raise.
Now that the BCS is out. Im going to have a Top5 instead of listing everybody.
1- Alabama (only trailed this year for 1:53, clearly dominate)
2- Penn State (Penn State has looked awesome all year)
3.- Texas Tech (Im still not sold on them. As an SEC fan, I just don't think they play D)
4- Florida (Only one big stumbling block between them and Atlanta....Vanderbilt...ha)
5- USC (Between them and Texas.....USC has been hanging up 60 regularly, so there)
Won 3-5 last week to PUUUUUUUSH my record to 18-13.
Only one game to pick this week....
Alabama 23
LSU 21
Take care, have a good weekend.
However, my Crimson Tide played their homecoming opponent. The next day Bama was #1. That's frigging cool.
All that being said, the biggest news was the firing/resigning of Phil Fulmer. Fulmer won 150 games in 17 seasons (8.8 wins per season) and was shown the door last week. I don't care much for the guy for many reasons and Im glad he's gone. Like I've said before, Fulmer cleaned Alabama's clock 11 out of 16 seasons, so Im not sad he will be somewhere else. My question to UT fans would be.....can you find a guy that can win 9 games a year to replace him. Wait, that would make it even. The next UT coach needs to win an average of 10 wins a game to overcome Fulmer.
I guess the next big question will be who will be the next to get the ax. Tuberville is probably safe, and if he beats Bama for the 7th straight time, then he will get a raise.
Now that the BCS is out. Im going to have a Top5 instead of listing everybody.
1- Alabama (only trailed this year for 1:53, clearly dominate)
2- Penn State (Penn State has looked awesome all year)
3.- Texas Tech (Im still not sold on them. As an SEC fan, I just don't think they play D)
4- Florida (Only one big stumbling block between them and Atlanta....Vanderbilt...ha)
5- USC (Between them and Texas.....USC has been hanging up 60 regularly, so there)
Won 3-5 last week to PUUUUUUUSH my record to 18-13.
Only one game to pick this week....
Alabama 23
LSU 21
Take care, have a good weekend.
Monday, November 3, 2008
Movie Review (Zach and Miri make a Porno)
Don't be fooled by the title. This is a straight up romantic comedy. Of course, there are some serious adult moments....and some gross out stuff too, but it was sweet.
Kevin Smith directed this and I like his movies. He pushes the envelope of good taste just about every time out, but his stuff is never boring and moves along really well. Oh, and you can count on a few laugh out loud moments. I think I nearly peed myself during Zach and Miri 5 or 6 times.
If you are unfamiliar with Kevin Smith's work. He directed Clerks and its sequel. Mallrats and Chasing Amy......oh and Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back. His stuff is pretty juvenile, but Im pretty sure Animal House was thought to be the same way back in the seventies.
Zach (always funny Seth Rogan) and Miri (Elizabeth Banks) are broke and decide to make a porno for money. Yes, this is a stupid idea that I doubt would ever work, but they decide that they can pay their rent and keep the utilities on if just a small percentage pay for their smut.
The entire cast is very good. Traci Lords (former porn star) Katie Morgan (current porn star) and the usual guys that are in Smith's movies are all excellent. One funny scene follows another as Zach and Miri cast the film and come up with an idea. They decide to come up with a theme from another movie and create a funny, but relevant title. Many are thrown around, and some are very funny, but hey finally decide on "Star Whores." You can only imagine the porn names derived from this. Use your imagination.
Well, their first attempt fails, but they decide to try again at Zach's work as a set. Zach works at a kind of "Starbucks" coffee shop and he has a key. I found it ironic that a porn was being shot in and around a place that we know and relate to. Im not sure if Ill be able to order another drink without asking for a Cockachino.
Well, as the big moment gets closer for Zach and Miri to have sex on film, both of them are ambivalent about it. The whole movie they insist they are roommates and the porno is "just business," but they definetely have feelings for another. Can you imagine the anxiety of having sex on film with someone you have known since 1st grade? Im not going to give it away, but after all the boobs and sex jokes, the movie ends up being all puppy dogs and ice cream.
I found the formula for this romantic comedy refreshing. It was so much better than crap like Made of Honor or P.S. I Love You. Those movies are so predictable and you can see the jokes coming at you like a locomotive. Who would have thought a movie centered around making a porn would make a great chick flick. A-
Kevin Smith directed this and I like his movies. He pushes the envelope of good taste just about every time out, but his stuff is never boring and moves along really well. Oh, and you can count on a few laugh out loud moments. I think I nearly peed myself during Zach and Miri 5 or 6 times.
If you are unfamiliar with Kevin Smith's work. He directed Clerks and its sequel. Mallrats and Chasing Amy......oh and Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back. His stuff is pretty juvenile, but Im pretty sure Animal House was thought to be the same way back in the seventies.
Zach (always funny Seth Rogan) and Miri (Elizabeth Banks) are broke and decide to make a porno for money. Yes, this is a stupid idea that I doubt would ever work, but they decide that they can pay their rent and keep the utilities on if just a small percentage pay for their smut.
The entire cast is very good. Traci Lords (former porn star) Katie Morgan (current porn star) and the usual guys that are in Smith's movies are all excellent. One funny scene follows another as Zach and Miri cast the film and come up with an idea. They decide to come up with a theme from another movie and create a funny, but relevant title. Many are thrown around, and some are very funny, but hey finally decide on "Star Whores." You can only imagine the porn names derived from this. Use your imagination.
Well, their first attempt fails, but they decide to try again at Zach's work as a set. Zach works at a kind of "Starbucks" coffee shop and he has a key. I found it ironic that a porn was being shot in and around a place that we know and relate to. Im not sure if Ill be able to order another drink without asking for a Cockachino.
Well, as the big moment gets closer for Zach and Miri to have sex on film, both of them are ambivalent about it. The whole movie they insist they are roommates and the porno is "just business," but they definetely have feelings for another. Can you imagine the anxiety of having sex on film with someone you have known since 1st grade? Im not going to give it away, but after all the boobs and sex jokes, the movie ends up being all puppy dogs and ice cream.
I found the formula for this romantic comedy refreshing. It was so much better than crap like Made of Honor or P.S. I Love You. Those movies are so predictable and you can see the jokes coming at you like a locomotive. Who would have thought a movie centered around making a porn would make a great chick flick. A-
Some thoughts....
Barack Obama will be the 44th President of the United States. He will easily pass the 270 electoral college votes needed and I predict that he will win the popular vote by a 52%-48% margin. Im not saying it's right or wrong, but that is the way it will play out.
Does anyone on this planet know what R.S.V.P means? If you get a party invite with these initials on it, look it up. It's common courtesy. Sheesh.
Congrats to my Nana. She made yet another birthday with flying colors. I won't give away her age, but she is closer to ninety than seventy. The lady looks good and I fully expect her to hit the big 100 maybe. What a tough broad.
My dog Willie is about to become an orphan. He keeps eating Bonnie's shoes....and brother that is a quick way to find your butt on the street. I don't even touch her shoes. Im kidding of course, but Willie is going to get that little snip snip this week.
Alabama is ranked #1 during the regular season since 1980. For some perspective, John Lennon was still alive. Gas was $1.12. A loaf of bread was 58 cents. RTR
Im really looking forward to Thanksgiving. We are travelling to Meridian, MS this year. Last time was my first time meeting Bonnie's family and it was a little bizarre. Im excited to kick back and catch up on some reading and enjoy the Smith family dynamic.
Gas will continue to drop. I suspect it will bottom out at about $1.90 at some point before the new year. Funny, the economy is in crisis, and NOW gas starts to drop.
Road construction sucks.
Just had Emma for 3 days for her birthday. She had a ball and I was happy to entertain, but my heart has been heavy ever since she left. When she is at my house, there is a different kind of energy. There's a lot of laughter and smiling going on. I got her first report card for second grade and again the teacher says she is a pleasure. Her grades were at grade level or above. Way to go Debbie. I can take a little credit, but my ex is setting the example. Emma is a wonderful child. The fact she shares my DNA is jawdropping.
Turkey or Ham?
Have a good week...Clay
Does anyone on this planet know what R.S.V.P means? If you get a party invite with these initials on it, look it up. It's common courtesy. Sheesh.
Congrats to my Nana. She made yet another birthday with flying colors. I won't give away her age, but she is closer to ninety than seventy. The lady looks good and I fully expect her to hit the big 100 maybe. What a tough broad.
My dog Willie is about to become an orphan. He keeps eating Bonnie's shoes....and brother that is a quick way to find your butt on the street. I don't even touch her shoes. Im kidding of course, but Willie is going to get that little snip snip this week.
Alabama is ranked #1 during the regular season since 1980. For some perspective, John Lennon was still alive. Gas was $1.12. A loaf of bread was 58 cents. RTR
Im really looking forward to Thanksgiving. We are travelling to Meridian, MS this year. Last time was my first time meeting Bonnie's family and it was a little bizarre. Im excited to kick back and catch up on some reading and enjoy the Smith family dynamic.
Gas will continue to drop. I suspect it will bottom out at about $1.90 at some point before the new year. Funny, the economy is in crisis, and NOW gas starts to drop.
Road construction sucks.
Just had Emma for 3 days for her birthday. She had a ball and I was happy to entertain, but my heart has been heavy ever since she left. When she is at my house, there is a different kind of energy. There's a lot of laughter and smiling going on. I got her first report card for second grade and again the teacher says she is a pleasure. Her grades were at grade level or above. Way to go Debbie. I can take a little credit, but my ex is setting the example. Emma is a wonderful child. The fact she shares my DNA is jawdropping.
Turkey or Ham?
Have a good week...Clay
Sunday, November 2, 2008
Movie Review "W"
First, let's be clear on a couple things. Number one is that I lean to the Republican side and I figured going to see this was going to be tantamount to seeing a Micheal Moore documentary. All the previews portrayed our 43rd President as some sort of doofus that could not put a couple of sentences together without saying something stupid.
Im not going to argue the merits of "dubya's" merits as our commander in chief. I am just going to review the movie. The tricky thing about this movie is trying to determine what's fact and fiction. The director, Oliver Stone is an incredible talent, but he has a way of bending things in his movies to suit his political tastes.
For example, if you saw "JFK" or "Nixon," you would understand quite clearly that Stone believed that Kennedy's assassination was a conspiracy and that Richard Nixon was a profane, egotistical man hellbent on crushing all comers. I could argue on each point if I wanted to, but most people don't know enough facts about either situation, so the rule of "it was on TV, it must be true" comes in.
Oliver Stone is one of my favorite directors. Platoon is so powerful....Wall Street was slick and smart. JFK is such a smart movie with so much to digest, it takes three or four viewings for it all to sink in. Natural Born Killers is one of the best examples of satire that has ever been put on screen. Born on the Fourth of July will make your heart heavy for days. Now, Stone set his sights on George Walker Bush. **By the way, it's no coincidence this movie came out just about a month before the election**
"W" was a surprise. This movie was a pretty fair view of how "dubya" was brought up and the ups and downs he had before he got into politics. Stone takes time to illustrate that "dubya" fought alcoholism in his 20's and 30's and shows respect when he later became a born again Christian as well. Josh Brolin does a fantastic job. I really think he should get some love come Oscar time. He really nails the mannerism's and the Texas accent really well. The rest of the cast is just window dressing really.
The movie slips back and forth from "dubya's" struggle up the political ladder. His porous relationship with his father, and the love story with Laura, who is played by Elizabeth Banks. I think Banks is pretty good in everything, so their scenes seem natural. While the story of how this man became President is interesting to a point, it drags too long whenever George Sr. comes into the picture.
The details in this movie is what makes it worthwhile to see. As the history of "dubya" is being told, the audience is also privy to what was happening behind the scenes shortly before the invasion of Iraq in 2003. I must admit, I thought we just decided to go in there and kick the crap out of them and that was it, but the Bush administration really believed the "WMD's" existed in Iraq and that they were working with Al Qaida. The truth is that for all the hype the CIA and the rest of the US Intelligence Agencies (Homeland Security, NSA, FBI) get, the fact is that they had bad information. Add bad information to a an administration nervous about 9/11 occurring all over again...and taddah.....we invade Iraq....the rest is history.
If you are interested in seeing "W" get blasted for two hours, you will be disappointed. If you expect a ton of funny moments, you will be again, disappointed. However, if you want to see how a government...and perhaps an entire nation got led down a path due to one screw up after another, then go for it.
There is one scene in particular that really got me. Dick Cheney (played by Richard Dreyfuss) is pointing at a map of the Middle East and although none of "W's" advisors (Rice, Rumsfeld, Powell) have the gall to say it out loud, Cheney illustrates that by controlling Iraq....and setting up shop in the Middle East, this would make the United States stronger and more powerful than ever before. Why, because we have the oil. After Cheney says the obvious, Bush replies that attacking Iraq is about freedom and democracy, not oil. My question is.....Was Bush that naive to think that? We may never know. B+
Im not going to argue the merits of "dubya's" merits as our commander in chief. I am just going to review the movie. The tricky thing about this movie is trying to determine what's fact and fiction. The director, Oliver Stone is an incredible talent, but he has a way of bending things in his movies to suit his political tastes.
For example, if you saw "JFK" or "Nixon," you would understand quite clearly that Stone believed that Kennedy's assassination was a conspiracy and that Richard Nixon was a profane, egotistical man hellbent on crushing all comers. I could argue on each point if I wanted to, but most people don't know enough facts about either situation, so the rule of "it was on TV, it must be true" comes in.
Oliver Stone is one of my favorite directors. Platoon is so powerful....Wall Street was slick and smart. JFK is such a smart movie with so much to digest, it takes three or four viewings for it all to sink in. Natural Born Killers is one of the best examples of satire that has ever been put on screen. Born on the Fourth of July will make your heart heavy for days. Now, Stone set his sights on George Walker Bush. **By the way, it's no coincidence this movie came out just about a month before the election**
"W" was a surprise. This movie was a pretty fair view of how "dubya" was brought up and the ups and downs he had before he got into politics. Stone takes time to illustrate that "dubya" fought alcoholism in his 20's and 30's and shows respect when he later became a born again Christian as well. Josh Brolin does a fantastic job. I really think he should get some love come Oscar time. He really nails the mannerism's and the Texas accent really well. The rest of the cast is just window dressing really.
The movie slips back and forth from "dubya's" struggle up the political ladder. His porous relationship with his father, and the love story with Laura, who is played by Elizabeth Banks. I think Banks is pretty good in everything, so their scenes seem natural. While the story of how this man became President is interesting to a point, it drags too long whenever George Sr. comes into the picture.
The details in this movie is what makes it worthwhile to see. As the history of "dubya" is being told, the audience is also privy to what was happening behind the scenes shortly before the invasion of Iraq in 2003. I must admit, I thought we just decided to go in there and kick the crap out of them and that was it, but the Bush administration really believed the "WMD's" existed in Iraq and that they were working with Al Qaida. The truth is that for all the hype the CIA and the rest of the US Intelligence Agencies (Homeland Security, NSA, FBI) get, the fact is that they had bad information. Add bad information to a an administration nervous about 9/11 occurring all over again...and taddah.....we invade Iraq....the rest is history.
If you are interested in seeing "W" get blasted for two hours, you will be disappointed. If you expect a ton of funny moments, you will be again, disappointed. However, if you want to see how a government...and perhaps an entire nation got led down a path due to one screw up after another, then go for it.
There is one scene in particular that really got me. Dick Cheney (played by Richard Dreyfuss) is pointing at a map of the Middle East and although none of "W's" advisors (Rice, Rumsfeld, Powell) have the gall to say it out loud, Cheney illustrates that by controlling Iraq....and setting up shop in the Middle East, this would make the United States stronger and more powerful than ever before. Why, because we have the oil. After Cheney says the obvious, Bush replies that attacking Iraq is about freedom and democracy, not oil. My question is.....Was Bush that naive to think that? We may never know. B+
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