Tag:John | The Fireside Post John | The Fireside Post
wpedon id=8560

All Posts Tagged With: "John"

post thumbnail

Advice From Farmer John

Farmer John and I do not always agree on politics – but he does have some simple but wise thoughts about life.  I found this posted on facebook: Your fences need to be horse-high, pig-tight and bull-strong. Keep skunks and bankers at a distance. Life is simpler when you plow around the stump. A bumble […]

15Jan2015 | | Comments Off on Advice From Farmer John | Continued
post thumbnail

John Denver on Global Warming

John Denver was one of the most popular folk singers of the late 20th Century. He had the capacity to resonate with each of us – even folks in the big cities loved his music. Denver spoke to a harmony with nature, to the love of nature, to respect for nature.  What would John Denver […]

27Apr2009 | | Comments Off on John Denver on Global Warming | Continued
post thumbnail

McCain campaign fought the last war

by Frank James The autopsies of Sen. John McCain’s failed presidential bid continue to roll in. This morning, National Public Radio’s “Morning Edition” aired an interview with John Weaver, a former McCain strategist who left the campaign last year when the Republican presidential nominee’s campaign first imploded during the primaries. Among the McCain campaign’s mistakes, […]

6Nov2008 | | Comments Off on McCain campaign fought the last war | Continued
post thumbnail

And Now For Something Completely Different

John Cleese is not a conservative. Now the hard question: Does European disdain help or hurt McCain at this point? UPDATE: Meanwhile in Kansas, the Democratic Senate candidate, Jim Slattery, has broken new ground by cutting an ad that depicts Sen. Pat Roberts pissing on voters. I can’t wait for the next ad, featuring “Number […]

15Oct2008 | | Comments Off on And Now For Something Completely Different | Continued
post thumbnail

Men At Work

We were driving down the street this morning and we noticed three men putting in a retaining wall. We saw a couple of shovels and a wheelbarrow. There were stacks of those pre-formed hex-shaped concrete ‘stones.’ The men had dug out the bank and were placing the stones in place. No more mowing of a […]

14Oct2008 | | Comments Off on Men At Work | Continued
post thumbnail

McCain is Mean Spirited – Slams Congressman Lewis

Congressman John Lewis has condemned the McCain Campaign for ‘…sowing the seeds of hate and division..” and he mentioned the segregationist Governor George Wallace. John Lewis is characterized as a ‘measured man’ – careful with his language…  There are few men in Congress as respected as John Lewis. This writer believes that John McCain has […]

13Oct2008 | | 1 comment | Continued
post thumbnail

McCain’s RNC speech – text & video, 2008

I don’t mind a good fight. For reasons known only to God, I’ve had quite a few tough ones in my life. But I learned an important lesson along the way. In the end, it matters less that you can fight. What you fight for is the real test.I fight for Americans. I fight for […]

5Sep2008 | | 1 comment | Continued
post thumbnail

John Cusack – Serendipity of War

Well now, John Cusack is up in arms. Cusack is that actor who used to make the chic flicks that even the men enjoyed watching. My favorite is ‘Serendipity.” But I like his latest work also. Check this out: [wp_youtube]NQgJl9d5KCQ[/wp_youtube] My first take was wondering what had gotten into John Cusack. I had never seen […]

13Jun2008 | | Comments Off on John Cusack – Serendipity of War | Continued
post thumbnail

Making Fun of Christians – or just making fun?

Son, Humor is the essence of sanity. Check out these videos. Humor has been my salvation, relieving me of the insane conflict of being a human – aware of myself and others – and aware of faith as both inspiration and superstition. Christian jokes abound – fueling awareness of human conflict. But what is humor […]

8Feb2008 | | Comments Off on Making Fun of Christians – or just making fun? | Continued
post thumbnail

John Wayne talks about America

Son, When I was growing up John Wayne was the great American Hero. He embodied everything that it was to be a real man, to be a real patriot, to have honor and to honor tradition.  Who are the heroes of today’s youth? [wp_youtube]nrjn26EE2bs[/wp_youtube] John Wayne was replaced by John Lennon. Then Sylvester Stallone and […]

3Feb2008 | | 1 comment | Continued
post thumbnail

New England Patriots – Big Bad John

Son, Jimmy Dean was singing metaphorically about the New England Patriots. “There was only one left to save.” Big Bad John. [wp_youtube]mR9dDdUmdtU[/wp_youtube] This is the story of the Super Bowl for this year – will they come out of the mine, or not. Dad

2Feb2008 | | Comments Off on New England Patriots – Big Bad John | Continued
post thumbnail

The John McCain Shelter for Abused Conservatives

John McCain has brought sanity back into the Republican Party. McCain is the realistic optimist of Ronald Reagan. The Reagan Revolution has been hijacked by abusive personalities who hope only for power and control. When an abused spouse cries out for help we provide an Abuse Shelter. We provide a place of sanctuary. We provide […]

31Jan2008 | | 4 comments | Continued
post thumbnail

Republican Debate, 1-29-08

Son, The Republican debate is on CNN tonight. It is being hosted by the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library. John McCain, Mitt Romney, Ron Paul, and Mike Huckabee are participating. I missed a few minutes because of a black tie affair that I could not get out of. The question is what about 100 year involvement […]

31Jan2008 | | 1 comment | Continued
post thumbnail

Caroline Kennedy or Michael Reagan

Son, Presidents have sons and daughters. Sometimes the children grow up to engage politics, sometimes they don’t. Think of Caroline Kennedy, daughter of John F. Kennedy, and an image comes to mind. Think of Michael Reagan, son of Ronald Reagan, and another image comes to mind – hopefully not for long. Do the children of […]

30Jan2008 | | Comments Off on Caroline Kennedy or Michael Reagan | Continued
post thumbnail

McCains wins Florida – huge for his candidacy

Son, Based on exit polling – John McCain has scored a huge victory. His totals look like they will come in around 31%. It is huge because this give confidence to the people with the money. More money translates into being able to better distribute their message before the Super Tuesday Primaries – one week […]

30Jan2008 | | 1 comment | Continued
post thumbnail

John McCain on Iraq Strategy – Meet The Press

Son, I am in no way an advocate of the war in Iraq. With that said our country is engaged in a War. A war whose outcome has serious consequence for America. John McCain is a man who understands war. Mr. McCain is not a war monger. He is not a cruel man. Mr. McCain […]

29Jan2008 | | Comments Off on John McCain on Iraq Strategy – Meet The Press | Continued
post thumbnail

A Sense of Hope, A Sense of Destiny…. Kennedy

Son, Inspiring events are happening in America. Civil Rights, Social Justice, workers, disabled, education, voters rights, quality Health Care, Senator Edward Kennedy. There is a movement afoot, and the Republicans will not be able to stop it. Senator Kennedy is endorsing Mr. Obama as I write and I can barely keep up. “…Courage, insight, bold […]

29Jan2008 | | Comments Off on A Sense of Hope, A Sense of Destiny…. Kennedy | Continued
post thumbnail

What’s his name, that Black Golfer?

Son, There is some guy playing golf like it is nobody’s business.  I am getting old and cannot remember names very well.  But I will try to recount some of the legends.  Then I’ll tell you about the new guy. That guy Jack could hit a nickle on the green.  Gary was a player.  Arnie […]

28Jan2008 | | Comments Off on What’s his name, that Black Golfer? | Continued
post thumbnail

Obama has the national Delegate lead

Son, This South Carolina primary election is really big.  The Obama campaign was hoping to win up to 20 of the 45 delegates available in South Carolina.  It looks like they will round up over 25 delegates.  Obama already had a couple of delegates lead over Clinton. This clearly puts Obama in the driver’s seat.  […]

27Jan2008 | | Comments Off on Obama has the national Delegate lead | Continued
post thumbnail

Obama Wins South Carolina- AP says Rout!

Son, This is a big day in American Politics. Barack Obama has won the South Carolina Democratic Primary. The Associated Press is calling this victory a rout. The white vote split three ways with Obama, Clinton, and Edwards. What can this mean? Obama continues to show strength. He seemed to lose some steam after Iowa […]

27Jan2008 | | 1 comment | Continued
post thumbnail

Another video on Prosperity Gospel

Son, I appreciate your struggle with the variety of means that Jesus is presented.  These are confusing times.  People who have become successful in America are conflicted – the traditional message of suffering no longer fits their lifestyle.  The ministers of the Prosperity Gospel seek to find an audience among the wealthy – why do […]

27Jan2008 | | Comments Off on Another video on Prosperity Gospel | Continued
post thumbnail

Media Fails in Democratic Election News

Son, The economic crunch we are all feeling right now should highlight the disparity in media attention on the candidates. As I wrote in my post on economic stimulus politicians should be addressing the real human consequences of a recession. John Edwards does this with forceful resolve, with a passionate understanding of issues, and with […]

24Jan2008 | | Comments Off on Media Fails in Democratic Election News | Continued
post thumbnail

Edwards brings dignity to debate, 1-21-08

Son, The democratic debate was a series of heated exchanges between Clinton and Obama.  John Edwards brought the debate back to the issues.  Chris Matthews would probably say that women and black folk don’t know how to talk civilly.   The reality is that Obama and Clinton see each other as the competition because the […]

23Jan2008 | | Comments Off on Edwards brings dignity to debate, 1-21-08 | Continued
post thumbnail

Democratic Debate – January 21, 2008

Son, These folks are working hard to distinguish themselves from the crowd.  They have similar position on a variety of issues – so what is left to distinguish.  Leadership, character, honesty, courage…  This sounds personal – but I think there is purpose. Obama has been doing well – and that attracts attention.  Clinton and Edwards […]

22Jan2008 | | Comments Off on Democratic Debate – January 21, 2008 | Continued
post thumbnail

McCain Wins SC, Huckleberry is second

Son, This is an exciting day in Republican politics.  John McCain, my choice among Republicans, has won South Carolina.  South Carolina consistently picks the Republican nominee.  So today is a good day for America. Huckleberry Huckabee continues to show strength – and that represents an awful trend in America.  Huckleberry is a religious fanatic who […]

20Jan2008 | | 1 comment | Continued
post thumbnail

The Nevada Debate, 1-15-08, Domestic Issues

Son, The final section of the debate is on domestic issues – but the first question is on support of the military at college and universities and whether ROTC should be offered and military recruiters should be allowed on campus. Clinton says “Yes, they should allow recruiters and not do anything to disrespect the military.” […]

16Jan2008 | | 2 comments | Continued
post thumbnail

Nevada Democratic Debate, 1-15-08, economy

Son, The debate continues. Williams, Many financial corporations are selling shares overseas, how does this strike you? ” Hillary, “I am very concerned, these are called sovereign wealth funds and they are controlled by governmental entities.  We’ve got to know more about them… But let’s look at how we got here – our institutions made […]

16Jan2008 | | Comments Off on Nevada Democratic Debate, 1-15-08, economy | Continued
post thumbnail

Nevada Democratic Debate, 1-15-08, On race

Son, The debate is on.  Brian William is giving the introduction of a Q & A format.  Time Russert is there – unfortunately.  But Brian Williams is a fair journalist and will moderate his colleague.    It begins with race. BW to Clinton: How did we get here? Clinton, “MLK’s dreams have been realized.  Senator […]

16Jan2008 | | Comments Off on Nevada Democratic Debate, 1-15-08, On race | Continued
post thumbnail

John Ridley on Morning Joe, 1-15-08

Son, John Ridley is a black man, a successful black man. Well, he makes a lot of money and follows his bliss as and NPR Contributor – successful. Joe Scarborough has Ridley on the show to talk about race in politics. Ridley, “I think this thing is really unfortunate. Race and gender has not really […]

15Jan2008 | | Comments Off on John Ridley on Morning Joe, 1-15-08 | Continued
post thumbnail

Tucker Carlson and John Edwards

Son, I was cooking supper and watching Tucker Carlson on the kitchen television.  I don’t why I do this to myself.  Tucker has a limited intellect and is removed from the real world by hanging to much with Chris Matthews. Tucker was interviewing a John Edwards supporter, I don’t remember who it was.  Tucker asked, […]

12Jan2008 | | Comments Off on Tucker Carlson and John Edwards | Continued
post thumbnail

Republican Debate – 1-10-08

Son, Who are these guys? Where did they come from? John McCain is the only legitimate candidate in this field. Fred Thompson is campaigning for vice-president, hoping to return the position to one of ceremony and afternoon naps. Mike Huckabee is seeking the office of Witty Spiritualist. Rudy Giuliani hopes to be Chief Bomb Sniffer. […]

11Jan2008 | | 1 comment | Continued
post thumbnail

Political endorsement, any value?

Son, There is an old axiom in local politics, “When someone or some group endorses you, you get all of their enemies and none of their friends.” Who knows?  We do know that politicians actively seek endorsements. Readers – what do you think – are endorsements valuable? Dad

11Jan2008 | | Comments Off on Political endorsement, any value? | Continued
post thumbnail

Hey Hillary – You go Girl!

Son, It is a great night for Democrats.  The pollsters and pundits, including me, guessed wrong on New Hampshire.  Hillary Clinton has pulled off a win that leaves the Democratic Party in a healthy position to continue this race. John Edwards is saying that he will continue through the convention.  Barack Obama has great strength.  […]

9Jan2008 | | Comments Off on Hey Hillary – You go Girl! | Continued
post thumbnail

John McCain wins New Hampshire

Son, I am relieved.  John McCain is the best chance the GOP has of getting my vote.  No – I don’t support the war in Iraq – but I like to think of myself as a multi issue voter.  He has won New Hampshire in spite of Mitt Romney spending a small fortune.  Ronmey’s loss […]

9Jan2008 | | Comments Off on John McCain wins New Hampshire | Continued
post thumbnail

For Whom The Bell Tolls

Son, No demographic is an island, intire of it self; every demographic is a piece of the Continent, a part of the maine; if a Clod bee washed away by the Political Parties, American is the less, as well as if a promontorie were, as well as if a Mannor of thy friends or of […]

8Jan2008 | | Comments Off on For Whom The Bell Tolls | Continued
post thumbnail

Prose and Poetry in Politics

Son, Art and science are different but compatible.   These two disciplines must each be mastered by presidential candidates.  There is a science to politics, but good politics rises to an art form.   The successful candidate will be the person who best masters the art.  The science can be hired out.  Art is a […]

7Jan2008 | | Comments Off on Prose and Poetry in Politics | Continued
post thumbnail

NH Political Predictions of Ohg Rea Tone

Son, Some processes are all about momentum.  Momentum is not arbitrary – there are roots of rationale.  There is cause and purpose.  The forces at play in breaking the sled loose continue to propel – mass in motion is difficult to stop.  The block of votes gained in Iowa have gravitational pull that directly correlates […]

4Jan2008 | | Comments Off on NH Political Predictions of Ohg Rea Tone | Continued
post thumbnail

Huckabee is a win for John McCain

Son, John McCain is the real winner tonight, this caucus night in Iowa.   Mike Huckabee polled the largest numbers of support- soundly putting Mitt Romney in his appropriate place – way don there somewhere.  But McCain is the real winner because the Republican Party does not want Huckabee. The importance of the Iowa Caucus was […]

4Jan2008 | | Comments Off on Huckabee is a win for John McCain | Continued
post thumbnail

Obama Turns Out – MSNBC Reports

Son, It is 8:15 PM, CST, and MSNBC is reporting with 56% of the tally that Obama has 35%, Edwards has 32%, and Clinton has 31%.  This is a major shift in the political landscape of the Democratic Party.  Obama is going to present a stiff challenge to tradition. Adrea Mitchell is on now – […]

4Jan2008 | | Comments Off on Obama Turns Out – MSNBC Reports | Continued
post thumbnail

Anybody but Huckabee

Son. It looks like Mike Huckabee is taking the first turn with a lead in the race. But my thought is that Huckabee appeals to a small but enthusiastic audience. As the race progresses the Republican leadership will take an Anybody but Huckabee stance. Huckabee has had several gaffs on foreign policy. He has directly […]

4Jan2008 | | 1 comment | Continued
post thumbnail

John McCain, true Masculinity

John McCain is a true mature man. This is a person who has managed a life as a warrior and a humanitarian. He is a man of solid values. A man of strength and resolve. A man of compassion. A man of the world. And a man of common people. Can you tell that I […]

2Jan2008 | | Comments Off on John McCain, true Masculinity | Continued
post thumbnail

Resolutions 2008 – WWJD

Son, Faith is expounded by all candidates.  Hey – the evangelicals have done a good job in politics.  They have swayed elections.  They have gained power.  They influence the national debate. I just wrote a post on Mike Huckabee.  He is that one guy who is a Christian Minister who is running for President.  I […]

2Jan2008 | | Comments Off on Resolutions 2008 – WWJD | Continued
post thumbnail

Challenging Sacred Cows of Politics

Son, I am one who attacks Sacred Cows. In that way Ron Paul and I are alike. There is something about the Ron Paul approach that unsettles me. It seems that he quotes obscure sources – fringe sources – sources of questionable repute. Are these sources questionable because they challenge old ideas or because they […]

27Dec2007 | | Comments Off on Challenging Sacred Cows of Politics | Continued
post thumbnail

Qualities of an American President?

Son, This is a redraft of a previous post.  The previous post focused on Ron Paul – but while writing that post I realized there are bigger issues at stake. Ron Paul is running for the Republican nomination for President of the United States. ON the surface it seems entirely remarkable that this man of […]

26Dec2007 | | Comments Off on Qualities of an American President? | Continued
post thumbnail

The Rise of Ron Paul

Son, Ron Paul is running for the Republican nomination for President of the United States.  ON the surface it seems entirely remarkable that this man of little logic is having so much success, both in admiring fans and his ability to raise money.  He is worth looking at – not because of his ideas – […]

26Dec2007 | | 3 comments | Continued
post thumbnail

The politics of admitting mistakes

Son, Several candidates for President have long histories.  Many of them have run for other offices like Senator, or Governor, or Mayor.  In the process of seeking those offices they necessarily catered to the limited population of their respective ambitions.  Romney and Giuliani were pro-choice.  Giuliani has been married three times.  Huckabee raised taxes.  Clinton […]

4Dec2007 | | Comments Off on The politics of admitting mistakes | Continued
post thumbnail

Republican CNN YouTube Debate – November 28

Son, A new event is happening in America. The CNN YouTube Presidential Debate. I am skeptical but hopeful. I remember the first televised debate between Kennedy and Nixon in 1960. That event ushered in a new technology – we are seeing another. I’ll try to keep up. A question to Giuliani on Immigration – the […]

29Nov2007 | | Comments Off on Republican CNN YouTube Debate – November 28 | Continued
post thumbnail

Media Hosts fail as Celebrities

Son, A tragedy has befallen American Journalism. Cable and satellite feeds have created monster celebrities in the field of journalism. Everyone wants to be Walter Cronkite. The problem is that hey have not earned the stature. Wolf Blitzer, Chris Matthews, Tim Russert, Bill O’Reilly, Shawn Hannity, Rush Limbaugh, to name a few. These people have […]

25Nov2007 | | Comments Off on Media Hosts fail as Celebrities | Continued