Bank Robbery 2

Three guys rob a bank and get away on the redline at the Chicago State stop, but the red dye explodes and things go wrong. 4/6/2010

Another Chicago 'L' Train in "The Loop"

Downtown Chicago's famous "L" (elevated) trains in "The Loop" on a warm day in February 2006. This is a favorite one-shot video. The flow of the train, traffic and people make Chicago a hive of activity. I also love the crappy old building in the background. Does anyone work there? It's like Elwood's apartment building in the Blues Brothers (LOL).

Transportation Solutions For Newark Airport

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Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) is located in New Jersey, about 15 miles from Midtown Manhattan in New York City. EWR forms part of the larger Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, which includes JFK International and La Guardia International Airport. In 2008, Newark Airport served over 35.4 million passengers, contributing to the total 107 million passengers passing through the New York-area airports system, the largest in the world behind London. Being in a major metropolitan area means that getting to, from and around Newark Airport can be a bit difficult. Here are some of the transportation options available that should make it a little easier next time you fly through EWR.

The Air Train

The airport's Air Train service can take passengers from EWR to the New Jersey Transit and Amtrak train stations, which can in turn take you directly to Manhattan. This can be quicker than taking a cab even, and much, much cheaper. It costs about $11.55 one way to get from the airport to Penn Station. To get from the city to the terminals, board the train at the Newark Airport Station of the NJ Transit System. You can see train schedules at the official NJ Transit System's website. Trains usually run from 5a.m. to 2a.m.

Car Services

If convenience is your main objective, you can arrange for a car service to meet you at the airport (if you're arriving), either before you board or upon arrival. This option lets you avoid waiting in the taxi lines, and it's especially good if you have a group of four or more people, in which case sharing a van or limo becomes more affordable.

Taxis From EWR

Metered fare from the airport to any Manhattan location comes out to approximately $50 to $75, after toll costs. Taxis are parked outside every terminal, where there's usually a taxi stand where you often have to wait in line. There's additional charges for luggage larger than 24 inches if you let the drive handle the bags. Rates are per car and cars can carry up to four passengers.

Taxis To EWR

Metered fare from the metropolitan areas of New Jersey and New York to the airport is usually $69 to $75 plus return toll costs. NYC taxis heading to Newark Airport have a $15 surcharge.

If You're Driving on your own

If you're driving your own car to EWR and need long term parking, your best bet is to park at one of the off-site lots. They're cheaper than airport parking, with rates $11 per day, and offer free airport shuttles that get you from your car to the terminals in a matter of a few short minutes.

For more airport parking information or to find airport parking online, please visit http://www.airportparkingconnection.com.

Bus Game 2 (1).3g2

The CTA has impressed us this time.

The Last CTA Green Hornet

Or, if you prefer, "light-rail";-) The last surviving CTA Green Hornet of a fleet that once numbered 600-plus trundles around a short loop at the Illinois Railway Museum in Union. The Chicago versions of these cars, known as PCC's, were unusual in that they had three sets of doors. Riders entered and paid at the rear, exited at the middle and front. The CTA began phasing out streetcars when it was formed out of the bankrupt Chicago Surface Lines and Chicago Elevated Railway Company in 1947. Cars like these were either scrapped or remade into rapid transit cars, some of which ran on the Ravenswood Brown Line as late as 1992. One of these was involved in a horrible accident at 62nd & State in May of 1950; a speeding Green Hornet hit a gasoline tank truck, which exploded. Riders died in the ensuing fire because they were unable to exit the conductor-operated doors.

Chinese Love Horoscopes and Love Matches

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The Chinese love horoscope or astrology reading comes from an ancient system based on 12 lunar signs. These signs are based on the year that you were born, rather than the signs of western astrology that takes predictions from the month. Similarly, the 12 lunar signs also relate to animals and they each represent the type of personality you will have a tendency to be, presenting you with recognisable characteristics. So if you've got your eye on someone, and know their date of birth, then the Chinese love horoscope will tell you whether as a love match you will be hot or not!

Want to find out if the Chinese love horoscope brings good or bad news for you? Here's a brief guide to who to get closer to and who to give a wide berth.

The Year of the Rat - 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008

Those born in the year of the rat are cunning and ambitious. With a love of money and opportunities, they are always on the look out for their next project. In love, they like a fellow minded quick-thinker and can make a good catch due to their love of family.

The Rat's Chinese Love Horoscope - another Rat, the Ox, the Rabbit, the Dog and the Boar but they are even more perfect with the Monkey and the Dragon.

The Year of the Ox - 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009

The Ox is dependable and steadfast in approach. Good (if a little tight!) with money, they will never let you down. While they are not the most romantic sign of the zodiac, they will show their affections in more practical ways.

Where will they find love? - A good relationship can be found with the Ox, Rat, Dragon, Monkey or Dog. Seek out the Rooster or Snake for something special.

The Year of the Tiger - 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010

Passionate and exciting, these wild cats like to live life to the fullest! They are the life and soul of the party and always trying to win the good opinion of others. But while they can be outgoing and brash, they also have a softer side and like to help others.

Chinese love horoscope - another Tiger, Dragon, Sheep, Rooster, or Boar. For fireworks, seek out the Horse or Dog.

The Year of the Rabbit - 1951, 1963, 1975,1987, 1999

The loveable, charming Rabbit - this sweet creature has everything going for him or her. But below this placid exterior is a very sharp and cunning mind. The Rabbit is always analysing and looking for clues in others, trying to find out what they think.

The Rabbit's love horoscope - another Rabbit, a Rat, a Dragon or Dog and for that soul mate connection the Boar or Sheep.

The Year of the Dragon - 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000

The Dragon is a natural born leader and likes to be noticed wherever he or she goes. Others are drawn to them for their sense of authority and tend to forgive their less attractive qualities such as arrogance or stubbornness! But they can show a sensitive side to their personality when needed.

Chinese love horoscope - try a Rabbit, Snake, Horse, Rooster or Horse for a solid relationship but for that something extra it needs to be a Rat or Monkey.

The Year of the Snake - 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001

The Snake is the deep thinker of the Chinese horoscopes. Wise and knowledgeable this is someone who likes peace and quiet. They get their fun from the finer things in life! The Snake is also highly observant and likes to watch others, always looking for an opportunity. There is a materialistic side to the Snake too and they like to strive for financial security.

Who's suitable for the Snake? - Another Snake, the Rat, the Dragon or Dog. But the best love match comes from the Rooster and the Ox.

The Year of the Horse - 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002

The Horse has an abundance of energy and is always ready for action. They are charming and flirty and people find themselves inexplicably drawn to them. Having lured people in, the Horse then sets to work on analysing everyone, trying to see where the opportunities lie! But while the Horse makes friends and lovers easily, there is a fickle side to him or her also. It is difficult to hold them back and if they are ready to move on, nothing will stop them from doing so.

Who can tame the wild Horse?- A good match will happen with another Horse, the Dragon or the Sheep. But for real chemistry, seek out the Dog or the Tiger.

The Year of the Sheep - 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003

For the Sheep, there is nothing more important in all the world as love. Sheep are emotional and need to see this in others too. As much as the Sheep loves to love, they love to be loved more! This is why you will always find the Sheep being flirty and coquettish in order to get attention. But if you find yourself in love with them, their kindness and sweet nature will make it a rewarding experience for you.

Chinese love horoscope - two Sheep will connect well, as will the Tiger and the Horse. But the Rabbit and the Boar will bring something special to the Sheep's life.

The Year of the Monkey - 1956, 1968, 1980. 1992, 2004

The intelligent and canny Monkey will outwit and manipulate anyone that he or she can get away with. There is a mischievous side that just cannot be suppressed. They are confident and charming in equal measure and others will put their faith on them without really knowing why. In love they can be flirtatious and there is a tendency to be fickle.

Love matches - two Monkey's will have an understanding on one another, and the Ox the Dog and the Boar will also work well. But it's the Rat or the Dragon that can offer the soul mate connection.

The Year of the Rooster - 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005

The dominant and impressive Rooster is sure to turn heads wherever he or she goes. And if they don't get attention, they will demand it. Those born under this sign are direct to the point of being blunt but will always mean what they say. There's rarely a double meaning with a Rooster. They are also meticulous when it comes to money and want efficiency above all else.

The Rooster's Chinese love horoscope - A great match for the Rooster would be the Tiger, Dragon or the Boar. The Snake and Ox make excellent life partners.

The Year of the Dog - 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006

The dog is ever likeable and loyal. This is a strong and sturdy character who will always want to look after others and be drawn to the 'underdog'! They are very protective of those they love and very astute when it comes to assessing their needs and wants. They are down to earth and have no airs and graces about them. A friend of the Dog's is a friend for life.

Good love matches for the Dog are - Another Dog, the Rat, the Ox, the Rabbit and the Snake.But for something special, the Dog will find true love with the Tiger and the Horse.

The Year of the Boar - 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007

Nice, accepting, honourable and loyal, who could not like the Boar? It's people of this sign that others generally turn to in a crisis on account of their calm and caring manner. The only problem is that this can lead to them getting taken for granted at times. But they won't let this put them off, the Boar is resilient and won't take anything too personally.

What are the best Chinese Love Horoscopes for the Boar? They can't go too far wrong with the Rat, the Tiger, the Dragon, the Tiger and the Monkey. But it's the Rabbit and the Sheep which really floats their boat.

If you want to know more about your Chinese Love Horoscopes and love matches, please visit my Blog at http://chinese-horoscope-of-love.blogspot.com/

Harriet

Outdoor Photographer, In the 21st Century

Image : http://www.flickr.com

Stop worrying about the potholes in the road and enjoy the journey.

--Babs Hoffman

Outdoor photographers in the 21st-century, we live in a world of uncertainties. I am writing this article to ensure you that there are many ways to lessen the hassles of traveling nowadays. Ever since the horrible disaster that America has faced with September 11, 2001, our security has been beefed up at our airports with professional federal employee, these young & mature men and women as I have personally observed are friendly and courtesy and do their job extremely well. I had never had any problems with these professional. Before I go on a photo trip I usually start planning well in advance within a year to six months before I depart, I do major researching on the Internet, as well as networking through the photographic organizations I belong to. I truly fine this valuable information to contact photographers who live in the area. I do 90% of my bookings online I find this to be the quickest and easiest way, after I have the hotel, car, and a home-based hotel. I do not book Airlines online due to the fact I do not want to be surprised, I preferred to have a fixed schedule 95% of the time I can book the airline at the same price from online. I'll also FedEx all of my photographic equipment and film, as with my film which is placed in x-ray bags I do not worry, besides, I take all my film an tape the box at the FedEx center. So if they want they can check the contents of the box. I have never had any problems with federal express, and if you follow the instructions that I am going to give you'll have no worries whatsoever. But I assure you my very expensive photographic equipment is safely delivered to the home-based hotel. I have read and seeing so many articles and suggestions on this topic. I just had to show you the best way and put it a nutshell. Granite the majority of the articles I have read are insulting your intelligence, its commonsense. Please Note: that these guidelines and suggestions are for domestic travel and if you're into outdoor photography, this will benefit you greatly. So here are my guidelines and suggestions to the outdoor photographer for the 21st-century with great success.

In the beginning:

. Intense research- (at least six months-a year)

. Networking- (within professional organizations)

. Budgeting- ($200 a month for six to 12 months)

In the beginning these are the three keys: intense research, networking, and budgeting. Researching which includes: Internet, mappings, literature, brochures, professional photographers, commerce, national wildlife refuge, travel agents, all of this takes time that is why I personally take the time at least six months to a year to research the area or areas of interest. Networking: if you belong to a well organization like the Photographic Society of America or North America Nature Photography Association or any other well-established organization you have the great benefit of your membership to network. By contacting photographers who are in the area that you desire to visit, besides I have personally met new and wonderful people who are like-minded by networking. Budgeting: now this is the tough part, I personally put $200.00 a month aside for photo travels for six to 12 months this gives me plenty of money to participate in activities I so desire, I do not stay in luxury hotels or rent luxury cars nor, do I have luxury meals. By all means I stay at hotels that are clean, and I usually try to get rooms with a refrigerator and I usually shop at local grocery stores, this way if I am in hot climate I can keep my film cool, and have some food also. If a refrigerator is not available I would use the air condition to keep at least the film cool, I usually buy salads, and slimfast, so refrigerator or an air condition does me find.

Part Two:

. Confirm- (confirm reservations)

. Photographic equipment- (cleaning, testing, packing)

. Locating drop-off center- (FedEx in my case)

. Reconfirm- (double checking)

. Clothes- (pack for ideal climate)

. Weather- (forecasting for the area)

. Paperwork- (any and all)

. Lab Bags- (transparencies and prints)

. Emergency /Meds- (first aid kit & prescription medications)

. Other equipment- (gsp, cell, two radio, cb hand held, laptop chains/locks)

Part two, and with these nine keys: confirm, photographic equipment, location for drop-off, Reconfirm, clothes, weather, paperwork, lab bags, emergency meds. Confirm: this is where you will call, hotel, airline, car rental, and hotel(s)-(home-based). Photographic equipment: this key could continuously be dragged on but I will put it all in a nutshell. First of all if you are going to use a carrier service like I do you're going to need to set up an account. I know that federal express is free to set up an account; if you do not have an account with a carrier service I strongly suggest you get one. So let's say you do have an account. What we need to do now is to have our shipping container and camera case and equipment ready to pack safely I bubble wrap each piece of equipment that is most fragile. Drop-off center: I also know were the drop-off center is from the home base, you can do I web search or call 800 numbers. Reconfirm: well this is commonsense do I really need to explain this one? But make sure you get a confirmation number from the hotel of where you will be staying for your photo adventure, placed this number somewhere on the shipping container, but only for the first hotel base. If you're going to be using multiple hotels you can transport the equipment in your rental car to the next hotel. Clothes: pack for ideal climate, forecast, watch the weather channel for your forecast, at least 2 weeks prior to your departure, this will give you an ideal of what to expect. Paperwork: make sure you have copies of any prescription medications you may need, also have any photographic lab paperwork, always have copies of your itinerary, and your state maps and or road atlas, plus your instruction manuals for your photographic equipment. I still prefer shoot transparencies I feel that Digital photography is more or less point and shoot. Remember back when you had them Polaroid cameras, well that's basically what Digital photography is. I still prefer to use my mind and skill and education. For the photographic lab bags, are consist of bubble bags and I use the bags to mail film from my home base hotel to the laboratory, I also carry an organizer that has all the photographic numbers and other important numbers I need, as well as other information, always be prepared. Emergency/meds: it's always good ideal to have a small first aid kit available specially when you're out in the field, and by all means use commonsense, always have your medical card, blood type, Social Security number, driver's license, any medications you are taking. Have it written down and placed somewhere on your person, you never know if you travel alone like I do, what happens if you're unconscious? Well, at least the medical emergency personnel will have some information. Other equipment: I use a GSP unit as well as a compass this help me stay on track and find my way back. I also use and have my cell phone, CB radio which gives me constant updates on weather, I also like to use a 7 foot chain with locks to secure the shipping case and camera case in the home base hotel.

At the airport hotel:

This is the first leg of the trip; I usually stay at the airport the day before departure. I truly believe that by staying at the airport hotel the night before is less stressful than rushing around the day of. The first things I do is check-in and ask for a wakeup call, approximately 4 a.m. I catch the early flights. I then catch the shuttle bus that will bring me to the departure gates of my chosen airline.

At the airport:

If you catch the earliest flight to your destination, which I always do. There are fewer passengers at these early times. The check-in counter usually opens about 5 a.m. at least the one I use, always check to be sure, the only thing I check in our my clothes bag which also contains my tripod and some other inexpensive equipment, per this writing transit authority now have locks you can purchase which they have the key too, this is usually a combination lock,this way if bags are in question the transit authority can open your bag without destroying it. My, carry on would include my laptop, cell phone, money, ticket, credit cards, and perhaps a book. As you're getting ready to go through security be prepared to have your ticket and driver's license out and ready, it is amazing to see people stumbling around to get their driver's license out. Also prepare to take off your shoes, I wear running pants and docksider easy to slip off, take everything out of your pockets put them in the plastic bowl, take out your laptop put that in a separate container and walk through the metal detector simple right? Wrong, if every passenger did this we would not have to stand in line very long just for commonsense. I would like to note to pack your tripod in you're checked luggage bag any non-fragile item w/clothes. I usually have the biggest duffel bag I can find. May your travels be a pleasant one.

Resources: helpful website

Danielle's CASE Company: specializes in carrying cases, shipping cases and wheeled cases designed to transport your equipment with care. http://www.danielles.com.

Transportation Security Administration: A MUST for anyone traveling by air. http://www.tsa.gov/public/display.

Federal Express: open an account or conduct business with any FedEx company.http://www.fedex.com

Photographic Society of America: Travel Aid We are a worldwide interactive organization for anyone interested in photography, be they casual or serious amateurs or professional photographers. http://www.psa-photo.org/

Price line: delivers huge savings on airline tickets, hotel rooms, rental cars and vacations. Name Your Own Price and save for all your travel needs. ... Discount cheap travel - last minute deals an.
http://www.priceline.com

Walking Stick short ver By Frank Boxberger jazz blues improv

This song "Entitled Walking Stick" was inspired by Steve Adelson, after buying and watching his instructional video(DVD) Mel Bay Series, Ithis is what I playded the first day... I have never played a walking bass line in my life until today...thanks Steve Great Video mY FAVORITE gUITARISTS: 1. Jimi Hendrix* - Jimi Hendrix Experience 2. Eric Clapton - Yardbirds, Cream, Derek & The Dominos, Solo 3. Jimmy Page - Yardbirds, Led Zeppelin, The Firm 4. Jeff Beck - Yardbirds, Jeff Beck Group, Solo 5. Eddie Van Halen - Van Halen 6. Stevie Ray Vaughan* - Stevie Ray Vaughan & Double Trouble 7. Joe Satriani - Solo 8. Ritchie Blackmore - Deep Purple, Rainbow, Blackmores Night 9. Steve Vai - David Lee Roth, Whitesnake, Solo 10. David Gilmour - Pink Floyd, Solo 11. John Petrucci - Dream Theater, Liquid Tension Experiment 12. Randy Rhoads* - Quiet Riot, Ozzy 13. Allan Holdsworth - Solo 14. Paul Gilbert - Mr. Big, Racer X, Solo 15. Yngwie Malmsteen - Rising Force, Solo 16. Phil Keaggy - Glass Harp, Solo 17. Jason Becker - Cacophony, David Lee Roth Band, Solo 18. John Mclaughlin- Mahavishnu Orchestra 19.Duane Allman* - Allman Brothers Band, Derek & the Dominos 20. Chuck Berry - Solo 21. Eric Johnson - Solo 22. Steve Howe - Yes, Solo 23. Neal Schon - Santana, Journey, Solo 24. Brian May - Queen 25. Gary Moore - Thin Lizzy, Colosseum II, Skid Row, Solo 26. Bo Diddley - Solo 27. Steve Morse - Deep Purple, Dixie Dregs, Steve Morse Band, Solo 28. Carlos Santana - Santana 29. Tony Iommi - Black ...

Chicago Odyssey Volume2 Part2

Purchase at -- www.greenfrog.com Volume 2 takes over where Volume 1 left off, in early 1962. In this fantastic two disc set, we will see the end of individualized passenger service, and the beginnings of Amtrak. The 'Amtrak in Transition' portion of this DVD is worth the price of this set alone! Before Amtrak, we will see passenger trains from: Milwaukee Road, CB&Q, Santa Fe, Penn Central, Gulf, Mobile and Ohio, Grand Trunk, Great Northern, Northern Pacific (and eventually the Burlington Northern), and Illinois Central. Of course we haven't forgotten you freight fans either. You'll see freight on most of the railroads mentioned above as well on: Chicago & North Western, Soo Line, Elgin, Joliet & Eastern, Indiana Harbor Belt, Rock Island, Chicago & Eastern Illinois. There are cameo appearances on the Chesapeake & Ohio as well as the Baltimore & Ohio. And in between all this, we'll catch commuter action on many of these roads as well: the Chicago, South Shore and South Bend, Chicago, North Shore & Milwaukee, and the Chicago Transit Authority. You'll witness the changes in motive power and equipment on many of these commuter lines. Finally, we end our tour of Chicago in 1973. We'll continue to watch the ever changing scene in both motive power, passenger and freight, as well as the Chicago skyline. From the Camera of Emery Gulash Approx. Running Time 2 1/2 Hours TWO-DISC SET

April 2008 - Astrological Update & Monthly Horoscope

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With all the Aries energy this month, (Sun, New Moon, Mercury and Venus) there is a definite call for new initiative and action. Aries energy is very self-directed so the first step is to get in touch with what you need and where you "stand". The challenge is to stay true to your needs even when they may conflict with what others want.

Take a look at how passion figures into your life as Venus passes through Aries 4/5-30. What are you passionate about? By discovering your passion you tap into your "dharma"; that sense of mission or purpose that will give your life increased meaning and joy!

With Saturn in Virgo trine Pluto in Capricorn 4/10-5/11 the time is right for hard work on the physical plane. Any large-scale projects requiring strategy, planning, organization and perseverance will benefit from this combination.

Use Mercury in Taurus 4/17-5/24 to help you formulate your values and then construct a plan for implementing these values into your life. Thinking/sensate type personalities can make lists of things to do and then prioritize them. For intuitive/feeler types, let your intuition and imagination take over so you gradually build a road map on how to get to your destination.

As the Sun shifts into Taurus on 4/19 (9:51 am) you are asked to define and solidify your core values. By clarifying what it is that you truly value, you create guideposts that support you in daily life. Without knowledge of your core values you are like the ship without a rudder - adrift at sea!

Communicating what you need to feel bonded emotionally and physically is highlighted with the full Moon at 0 degrees Scorpio on 4/20 (3:27 a.m.) The challenge this month is to acknowledge your need for bonding even though you may feel vulnerable, or fear that others might reject you if you look too needy.

With Mars in Cancer trine Uranus in Pisces 4/20-24 and then opposing Jupiter in Capricorn 4/22-26, the urge to get into action is strong! The only downside may be too much impatience or impulsiveness. Finding a cause you can channel this energy into will help.

For Sun, Moon and Rising Signs

Aries (March 21-April 20) The new moon in Aries on 4/5 suggest that being present is key this month. Impatience represents the fear that there isn't enough time. Worrying less about the future and concentrating on the moment is the strategy.

Taurus (April 21-May 21) You might benefit through being involved in some sort of community service this month. Is there a cause or issue that speaks to your heart? If so, this could be an opportunity to know you're making a difference.

Gemini (May 22-June 20) Relationships will benefit from your ability to directly speak the truth. You see the broader picture now and are able to be incisive in your communications. Remember: speak the truth and it will set you free!

Cancer (June 21- July 20) Trusting your gut level or instinctual knowing is imperative. If you don't speak your truth you might find yourself ruminating about it later. Your perspective is needed so those around you can see the bigger picture.

Leo (July 21- Aug 22) Are you having an "identity crisis?" You're like the onion whose old layers are being peeled off. The good news is that the change you're going through will bring new authenticity if you can let go of beliefs that no longer serve you.

Virgo (Aug. 23- Sept. 22) Your rational, trouble-shooting approach may not be as effective now. Try engaging your imagination to access new and innovative solutions. It's OK to be dreamy now...allow your creative voice to have its say!

Libra (Sept. 23- Oct. 22) Time to pay attention to the mind/body connection. Some sort of mindfulness practice will help you detach and remain calm. The only problem is you might find it hard to sit still! Try getting the breath going, (running, yoga, pranayama) first.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) The full Moon at in Scorpio on 4/20 suggest than even though surrender is not exactly the favorite mode for Scorpio, this month it's a good choice! Much can be accomplished if you align your individual will with a higher purpose.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec 20) You're learning that your authority comes when you connect with inner wisdom. Nothing is gained and much is lost if you ignore this inner voice. Trusting your inner authority brings deep healing and peace and impresses external authorities at work.

Capricorn (Dec. 21-Jan 20) You're becoming aware of the unconscious ways you drive yourself. If you grew up in "survival mode" part of you just can't stop pushing. Learning to delegate to others will help you trust that others are capable of supporting you.

Aquarius (Jan. 21-Feb. 18) You are probably feeling pretty "wired" right now with more energy than you know what to do with. Try channeling this energy into creative or humanitarian projects that speak to your "activist" side.

Pisces (Feb 19-March 20) Feeling a little confused or directionless? You might be in need of a little more structure or rhythm in your life. Try the softer martial arts like Akido, Qi-gong, or tai-chi. Vinyasa flow yoga, swimming, roller blading, ice skating or dancing will also get you in the flow.

James Jarvis, M.A. is a trans-personal counselor, master astrologer, and LifeQwest™ Coach who specializes in helping you "Create the Life of Your Dreams." Sign up for James' free bi-monthly LifeQwest™ E-zine and receive a free 12-page report, "Keys to Right Livelihood," plus monthly horoscope, coaching tips and special discounts on services. http://lifeqwest.com (866) 851-2906 (toll-free)

Chicago Transit Authority - "Poem 58" [Studio Version]

Off of the self-titled debut of Chicago Transit Authority [later to be known as Chicago]

CTA Brown Line

シカゴ交通局ブラウン線です。 1080p 59.97fpa録画アーミテージ → ワシントン

Dubai Ship

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There is a large dry dock facility in the Persian Gulf which is the only one in the region and is adjacent to the Mina Rashid port. You can locate a Dubai ship docked in any of these facilities. These facilities have made it very convenient to ship from Dubai. The Jebel Ali port is about thirty-five kilometers from the heart of Dubai and it is considered to be the world's largest man-made harbor and also the biggest port in the Middle East.

The Jebel Ali port is adjacent to the Jebel Ali free zone an industrial area popular for offshore business. Interestingly the Jebel Ali International Airport is being constructed in this area.

Dubai ports world was created in 2005 by a merger between the Dubai Ports Authority (D.P.A) and Dubai Ports International (D.P.I) which had been founded in 1999.It has world -class facilities and have been ranked as the world's 9th Top Container Port.

The Dubai creek is the historic point of life in Dubai. It is a natural sea water inlet cutting in the heart of the city. Dubai creek also marks the centuries old leading tradition. Dhows are used to travel Dubai creek. A dhow is a traditional Arab sailing vessel having one or more triangular sails. In earlier days dhows are mostly use to make commercial journeys between the Persian Gulf and east Africa and their cargo are mostly dates, fish and mangrove timber.

If any one needs any services related to air freight forwarding, domestic air freight forwarding, cargo insurance, international relocation, custom brokerage and project forwarding can contact any Dubai shipping agency and they would readily provide with the same.

Some of the Professional shipping companies specialize in the services like bunker supplies, ship to ship transfer, transit & ship supply services. Ship supply services is the most effective way to arrange crew changes and supplies of spares and provisions to vessels

Ramapati Singhania specializes in creating and managing web businesses. His latest website on shipping to Dubai helps you to know more about freight forwarding in Dubai.

CTA Flxible At Michigan/111th

An Elderly Flxible Is Headed To 119th/Western

Manchester Airport Transportation

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The Manchester Boston Regional airport is typically referred to as the Manchester Airport. This airport is a very large airport that was built in 1927. It attracts millions of travelers every year and it is located close to Boston, Massachusetts which is a very busy area and caters to the travel and transportation needs of its residents and tourists.

There are several options you can choose from to transport yourself to and from the Manchester Airport. Until June 2008 there was a shuttle bus that ran at a high frequency between the airport and Woburn and the Sullivan Square subway station located at Boston as part of Manchester Airport Transportation. The bus operated both ways on the same route. The service was free of charge for those who had valid airline tickets and the entire bus route took about 75 minutes to complete. When this service became highly popular, it was given to private operators who offer buses every hour to shuttle passengers to and from airport to several points in the North Massachusetts area and Boston City. This costs money (current known rates being $19 for a one way ride - subject to change) and prior reservations are required for the rides.

The Manchester Transit Authority gives an hour on hour bus shuttle between the Manchester airport and downtown Manchester. A new Highway Access is being built apart from the routes available through the local roads. The MBTA commuter rail may be a possibility in future that would be an extension of the Lowell Line to include Manchester Airport. There are private car rentals, vans and Limo services that are available too for those who prefer private transportation to public transport. With the Manchester Airport Transportation efficient transport is assured to all - those who want it affordable and also for those who do not mind the price tags as long as they get their comfort.

An excellent company that offers manchester airport transportation is Go Green Airport Shuttle. Visit their website for more information.

The Metaphysical Properties of Diamonds - One of the True Birthstones of Leo - The Lion King

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The Blazing Summer Sign of Leo

By the end of July the summer sun is blazing and crops are bursting with their life force. Leo is a highly energetic, masculine fire sign. Leos can be none other than kings, leading all types of enterprises with their strong personalities. They need to be independent in their work, not submissive to others. They have a sense of entitlement and expect to be served. Fortunately, their strong, egocentric, masculine side is balanced by devotion to their children, a warm heart, and generosity. Leos' courage pays off in the business world, where they take risks that lead to success.

The Ruler of the Star Sign Leo is the Sun

The Sun is a decidedly male heavenly body. It is the ruler of our universe and the source of all life and consciousness on Earth-our father. Life is consciousness! Because it is the center of our universe, it is associated with the center of our conscious selves-our self awareness, ego, personality, identity, and spirit. This is a most creative, powerful, and energetic heavenly body, giving us our life force, health, and vitality, our strength, willpower, and determination.

The male quality of the Sun is associated with authority figures, leadership, husbands, and fatherhood. The creative power of the Sun is associated with all creative endeavors, including the arts, procreation, and even commercial enterprises. In the horoscope the Sun lends its energy to the other planets.
The Sun rules Leo and the 5th House (Children & Creativity). In medicine it rules the heart and circulatory system.

How Gemstones Can Enhance Your Leo Experience

Leo is a masculine fire sign. Gemstones and especially Diamonds perfectly represent the life force energy, power, and fire of Leos.

Gemstones have both physical and metaphysical qualities that can enhance all aspects of your well-being. The perfectly aligned crystal structure of gemstones creates an energy field that interacts with our own when you hold it or wear it on your body. In this way, the gemstone can be used to calm you, bring you mental clarity, increase your energy, enhance your creativity, and much more.

Astrology and Gemstones

Astrological principles manifest at all levels of creation, from the largest bodies in the cosmos to the tiniest particles of atoms-all are part of the same network of universal energy. Based on the hermetic principle "As above, so below," those universal principles allow us to read relations among the planets and extrapolate those principles to things here on Earth, to events in our lives, as well as to our natural environment. The universal principles that govern the planets are also seen on the much smaller level of gemstones, crystals, and metals.

The Signature of Gemstones

Each gemstone is associated with specific planets. You are already aware that each planet has its own personality in astrology. And each gemstone has a personal "signature"-specific metaphysical qualities, different for each stone, that arise from the stone's association with its planets.

How to Make Gemstones Work for You

By considering the individual signature of gemstones, you can select the right gems for very specific purposes, according to their astrological qualities.

Gemstones can be used in three different ways:

1. They are precious objects of beauty that may hold a special meaning for us. We enjoy their beauty by giving them a special place on a shelf, desk, or altar.
2. They can be used in meditation by tuning into their frequency for the purpose of balancing our energy field.
3. They can be made into jewelry pieces for our pleasure, enhancing our individual expression of beauty and sense of empowerment.

You can learn more about the metaphysical properties of gemstones through my book Jewelry and Gems for Self-Discovery: Choosing Gemstones that Delight the Eyes & Strengthen the Soul where I teach you more about astrological concepts, how to read your horoscope and how to find the main themes in your chart.

You will know how it all fits together into the bigger picture and you will be able to balance yourself with your 12 main healing gemstones, you could call your true birthstones.

Below you will find a description of the Diamond, one of the true astrological birthstones for Leo. The astrological signature of Diamond is Sun, Saturn, Mars and Venus. That means if you want to support those planetary principles in your chart Diamond is one of the best stones to do that!

Diamond: The King of Gemstones [1]

"Like Leo, the Diamond is the royal king of gemstones. Throughout the ages it has been accorded a place of honor as the most beautiful and precious of all gemstones. It has the highest reflection of light and is the hardest and most durable of all gems.

The Diamond represents the life force energy of the sun, the highest expression of light and consciousness in our solar system and therefore serving as the gateway to higher perceptions of reality, other realms and dimensions.
Many of our myths and stories show the individual hero struggling against some challenge; conquering that challenge requires growth and evolution to a higher state of understanding and consciousness. This is the quest that we all pursue. The Diamond is a metaphor for this process: it is mined, cut, and polished, evolving toward a state of ever more refined perfection until it becomes a perfect manifestation of light and wisdom. Does this not mirror our own path toward a greater state of enlightened perfection?

The Diamond helps us to connect with our creativity and the power radiating out from the center of our being. Supported by the Diamond, we delve below our outward personality and discover our true selves.
As Diamond is the hardest stone, it supports us by helping us to achieve structure, self-discipline, and endurance in our lives so that we may extend the boundaries of our capacities.

The Diamond represents the crown chakra, our connection to unity consciousness, to all that is. It refracts light prismatically like a rainbow, representing our eternal connection to the divine source. Given all of these superb qualities, we can all benefit from wearing a Diamond, wherever we are on our path. Its strength is enhanced when it is worn with the right awareness, helping us, through our human consciousness, to discover that we are part of the divine consciousness. Whenever we wear a Diamond in combination with other colored stones, it enhances the qualities of the colored stone. I love to combine Diamonds with other stones in my jewelry; it's like shining the light of consciousness into specific areas of your life.

The Green Diamond is very rare. It teaches us about the riches of the heart. It is an androgynous being with both male and female qualities. She is the lover and the beloved. He is the healer of the heart and makes it strong to protect it from hurt. Abundance of the heart and spirit and the grace that ensues from them-those are the lessons of Green Diamond.

The Yellow Diamond is also a unique and highly coveted stone. It represents the Sun and pure life energy and joy, meaning also love. Its golden light radiates into our body and soul, reminding us of the truth of who we are: eternal beings of light and spirit.

The Yellow Diamond stimulates and enhances our creativity and self-expression. It represents an artist of life who is able to celebrate and respond to life and its challenges. The wearer of the Yellow Diamond can stay very focused, determined, and patient as projects unfold.

This Diamond imparts the ability to keep the bigger picture in mind without getting lost in details, making us very successful in all our endeavors. We become winners with a golden touch like King Midas."

If you enjoyed this article and my musings, I invite you to come and visit my Astrological Signs Weather Report & Healing Gems Blog where I discuss the universal, astrological forces of the stars and gems and inspire you to use them wisely for a more successful and joyful life.

Aloha and many blessings, Shakti.
Shakti Carola Navran: astrologer, jeweler and author
______________________________________
[1] Adapted from Jewelry and Gems for Self-Discovery: Choosing Gemstones That Delight the Eye & Strengthen the Soul (c) 2008 by Shakti Carola Navran. Llewellyn Worldwide, Ltd. 2143 Wooddale Drive, Woodbury, MN 55125-2989. All rights reserved, used by permission of the publisher.

Many people listen to the weather report on the radio before they head out the door in the morning so they can be prepared for the day to come. My Astrological Signs Weather Report and Healing Gems blog will prepare you the same way: it will make you aware of the universal forces at work in the present moment so you can maximize your response to all that you encounter and align your efforts with the current cosmic trends for a successful and joyful life.

As any surfer here in Hawaii will testify, it is always easier to go with the flow than against it. Life also has a flow, which emanates from the universal forces. With the right awareness and understanding, you can learn to be in harmony with the flow of the universal forces in your life, using them to achieve your goals and dreams. Using astrology to read and interpret the universal forces at work in any given period will give you a real advantage in your ability to deal with challenges in your life and take advantages of the opportunities that present themselves.

One way to align yourself with the universal forces is to work with the metaphysical qualities of gemstones and crystals for health, energy, and balance. I invite you to enter into the sparkling, mystical world of gemstones, connecting us with the whole of creation, from microcosm to macrocosm. Come and visit me at http://www.jewelryandgemsforselfdiscovery.com/blog/.

Black Diamond in the Fifth - Money, Love, Sex, Talent, Gambling, Anger (Zodiac House Issues)

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MODE Of Cosmic Therapy: How to Resolve Fifth House Issues

When you were small child, you no doubt, loved the playground. Whether you were afforded the opportunity to spend much time in one or not, the point is: your inherent desire to play never ever goes away. That's why gambling has the tremendous appealing flavor it does. As a child it was so much fun to speculate, back then it was called running, jumping, hopping, skipping rope, hiding, and throwing balls. Then came, red rover red rover, Mother May I, ain't no bears out tonight and finally progressing into spin the bottle. The human trait is to naturally want to gamble, take a risk, venture into the unknown, invent new things, see if you can (And, then how much) fool the other person and play hard to get and harder to keep.

The death of this spontaneous trusting fun loving eager high spirited child still lives within you no matter what roads you have gone down in order to annihilate him/her. It all began to break down when you realized the games were no longer games but people were taking the matters seriously. (As If They mattered) Then, entered the ferocious tiger eating mammoth desire regarding money, power, influence, control and last but not least, sexual domination. {Because you wanted to be king/queen of the grown up games.}After you slipped into the gown/jacket of 'getting ahead', you forgot how to relax, be 'natural and convenient'.

When these green eyed jealous envious competitive, comparing animals leaped in the picture, guileless innocence jumped right out the first window. You unwillingly became a highly motivated self-serving up-tight creature of ill descent. The light beam in your eyes was traded for the pursuit of the golden egg along with the hoarding/accumulating of money. You reasoned that with money came power, authority, position, command, luxury, respectability and of course all the sex you could ever want to maintain. Gone was the natural innocent belly laughter. In essence, that vital life-infused sacred sensual sexual artistic impetus got smashed in the gut. In its place, a synthetic phony substitute of striving for 'success' was supposed to compensate; but, underneath a lurking seething anger (Nothing more than unexpressed sexual creative energy) rambles for liberated expressive release. You are an artist. You must create. Money, alone will not do it for you.

In the fifth house, the sign on the cusp indicates how, when, why, where and on whom money will come and go in your life like rain. Because of other factors in your chart, the 5th house especially emphasizes the color of your anger. If you desire to become wealthy, this is the house you will experience that sort of wealth in your lifetime. This is supposedly the house of love affairs, too. But, not as you imagine. This is the house of secret love affairs, the ones never spoken about, hidden away, and never materialized. Who and what are you truly in love with? What happens, there again, when you sublimate your deepest desires in order to settle for immediate gratification. Instead of pursuing a deeply ingrained talent, you dispense your wallet on trivialities of orange and purple glittering clover. (FAKE)

You try so hard to capture a fleeting aspect of yourself projected in another that you sell your soul for the opportunity to be the 'special one' in his/her life. You will eventually get what you truly desire (all mortals do) but it will not be because you tried to. After a lot of living, lying, loving indiscriminately, losing, leeching, laughing sarcastically and having had the playing field leveled, you will realize the flower of your true passion. The sign on the cusp of the 5th house tells that story. This time, settle for nothing less than what you truly desire!

You will have to deal with your repressed anger by bringing to the surface the smut you have smeared in the sign of your neglected obsession. YES, you smeared it. You did it! What planet rules the fifth house? That is your greatest love! It is also your greatest suffering. Now, don't get short sighted and say that the sign itself is all there is to your love. NO! The embodiment of that sign! Where is the planet which rules the 5th house found in your chart? What type of characteristics does the planet personify?

Sexual attractiveness is born in this house among other artistic gifts. The way you channel these gifts is directly related to the first house. (In other words, you must combine the two signs to get a clear picture of who, what, when, why, where and how your individual make-up needs to integrate for expression.} Wealth, talent, love affairs, sexual unions, business ventures, as the rose on the bush will bloom by itself, so too will your abilities materialize. But, certainly not by clutching too tightly, guarding too attentively, worrying too aggressively or by being stingy/fearful/resentful of others getting/enjoying what you don't seem to be able to have!

You will learn how to let go of unprofitable ideas in this playpen. You will learn that sneakiness prevents you from evolving. This is specifically true where the realm of healing your body and the emphasis is on getting (truly) well is concerned. (Mind, body, personality, and any left over anger/guilt/remorse from previous relationships.} By healing and eradicating the dross from other carry over romance escapades, you willingly release (through situations beyond your present control) the necessary throns that have up until this time disallowed a wound to heal. Some unions end without explanation and you must allow the idealized ideas to flow and go into the universe without knowing how or where or when or IF they will return. This house is about freedom not for you but from you. You are the warden of your life.

This is the house where you will come face to face with how you truly feel about money. What problems do you have? How identified are you with it? Are you obsessed or worried regarding its visitation and how long it will stay with you? Do you release it and let it do its job? The residual issues with Money will cause you have many experiences in your early life of the flavor of the sign on the 5th house cusp. But, you will learn by sheer experience that money does in fact return to you many times over, when you simply release any ill feelings (OR exaggerated worship) attached to the way it moves so capriciously.

You will (want) need to heal your obsession with money based on the planet ruling this house. What people (Planet) do you know who represent your idolization of money? You are and have been given an unending free flowing font of it IF you give and continue to give. (Without a thought of doing so!) You are the only person who can block the energy of money from coming to you by growing jealous, bitter, resentful or greedy over someone else's lot. Should you try to manipulate circumstances in your favor, or brood over another's good fortune instead of sending those people showers of blessings in mind and heart, you will sorely suffer the mental anguish and mind poverty because of it. That's worse than being poor. No matter how much money you obtain, you can never be happy with it IF you reduce your consciousness to one of mind poverty. It is undeniably the most miserable of states to be subjected to.

Relationship and money equal the same amount of energy vested. Do you smother or are you free flowing? Check the sign, planet/placement in your 5th house of natal chart for validation. Work on it.

I am a Cosmic Therapist, artist, entertainer, singer/songwriter, musician, composer, playwright, perfumer, professional astrologer, author, teacher, speaker, poet and self-taught chef.

I am also a radio/television talk show creator, host and director. In addition when I'm not busy, I maintain a presence at M.O.D.E International School of Esoteric Arts and Sciences of which I founded many years ago.

Chicago 25 Or 6 To 4

listen to chicago's awesome 25 or 6 to 4

CTA Red Line Subway at Clark/Division

Southbound (to 95th/Dan Ryan) and northbound (to Howard) Red Line trains at Clark/Division, in the State Street Subway (so-called even though it runs under Clybourn and Division as well as State). This subway was the first in the "L" system, dating from the 1940s, and is one of three total subway tunnels in the system. The station has not been given a major upgrade since it opened, and though it shows its age, small details original to the station such as the small "Clark" electric sign remain.

What to Do at Disney World's Magic Kingdom When It's Raining

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Depending on the time of year, rain will be a factor in your Disney vacation. Florida's rainy season runs typically from May to October. In August, for example, you can expect rain every day. But that doesn't mean you can't enjoy your time at the Magic Kingdom, you just have to be prepared.

Check the Weather Forecast.

Seems simple doesn't it? It's an easy thing to do forget when you're on vacation and expecting 'sunny' Florida. If rain is expected, bring ponchos (don't be suckered into buying expensive Mickey ponchos, go to your local dollar store before your trip and pick up a bunch there), bring plastic to cover up a stroller while you're on a ride. In general, it's a good idea to have two pairs of shoes on your trip so that if you get caught in the rain the wet pair have a day to dry.

Explore Extra Time Taking Indoor Attractions.

There are many indoor attractions that can help you ride out a storm. Tomorrow Land Transit Authority, Stitch's Great Escape, The Laugh Floor Comedy Club, the Hall of Presidents, Country Bear Jamboree, Mickey's Philharmagic, the Liberty Bell River boat, The Haunted Mansion - that's a lot of places to stay dry! If you've checked the weather forecast and you know there's going to be a chance of rain, keep a mental list of these places. This will allow you to make a quick decision. Rain comes fast and hard in Florida, and time spent trying to figure out where to go will be time spent wet.

Another thing to remember is that rain tends to scatter the crowds, particularly in the afternoon. People assume that once the rain starts, it's not going to stop. If you can wait out a storm, you'll find less people to fight through and fewer line ups. A great vacation bonus.

Did you know there are stores at Disney?

Shopping is an excellent activity to partake in as the rain pours down. A super tip: did you know the stores on Main Street are interconnected? You can walk inside from Casey's right down to almost the front gate. Great for an easy escape after the nightly fireworks, or if you're trying to occupy time during a storm.

Enjoy the Rain!

Remember you're on vacation. It's a time to do things you wouldn't do at home and most importantly it's a time to have fun. If the temperature is warm and you and your family don't mind getting a little wet, why not splash in the puddles,dance in the rain, and race over to Splash Mountain where you won't mind getting soaked. This is an activity that's probably best enjoyed when you're about to leave the park and will be able to put on dry clothes in the near future.

Rain can spoil the mood pretty quickly, not everyone likes grey days and walking around in damp, wet clothes. The more you're prepared for a rain delay, the easier it will be to keep the magic alive at the Magic Kingdom.

Lindsay Price has been a regular Walt Disney World visitor for the past nine years. Her favourite park is Epcot, her favourite ride is The Haunted Mansion, and her favourite character is Goofy! http://parktimes.net/

Make me Smile

Papa's Son at Hostería Aramys playing this Chicago's Classic

Walk through Lake St. Red Line Subway Station

I walk from the street into the Lake Street Red Line subway entrance, through the turnstile and down to the platform. One of our many many licensed subterranean musical performers makes an appearance toward the end.

Same Time, Same Place, Same Level - Chapter 15

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Security and its guardians - A phone call is enough...

Some people must have realized years ago just how easily the fear of God can be put into an airport by the simple impediment of a telephone call. If you were a safety official, what would you do if someone were to call at three in the morning, saying that Flight so and so will have a bomb on it? As likely as not, you would order a search of the aircraft, an extra careful check of passengers and luggage and, having turned up nothing suspicious, you would just sit back with your fingers crossed until the threatened plane arrived home safely. But you would never, not once, treat the telephone calls as not being for real. A lot of money and time is being wasted as a result of these telephone nuts, for less than a fraction of one percent of such telephone calls actually have a real threat behind them.

The telephone exchange at this airport had the disconcerting habit of regularly putting through callers to the control center's extension whenever they could not make heads or tails of what the caller wanted. It was only natural that a call starting with the words "bomb" or "explosives" should end up ringing the supervisor's line. Over the years most of the supervisors had the good fortune of talking to these nameless people cheerfully promising to blow up everything from aircraft to radar installations and from the catering kitchen to cars in the parking lot. While they chatted away, technicians desperately tried to trace the call, mostly ending up at a coin-box, long deserted by the time the police arrived.

These conversations with the loonies invariably proved an educating experience. Discounting the obvious drunks and those high as a kite, the rest provided a unique insight into human psychology. Of course these people are not the same breed as those who actually blow up airplanes (these latter usually tend to telephone after the fact...), but they seem to take an unholy glee in the frantic search and near chaos they know their phone call will invariably result in.

Funnily enough some supervisors even managed to get a few of them to confess their motives. There were those who hated airplanes because of the noise they made, there were lonely souls who just wanted to have a good chat (threatening to blow you up by way of introduction is as good a way as any to start a good heart to heart chat...), there were deserted lovers and students who had made a bet. Why these people never called the railways or the boat company, was impossible to know.

Incidentally, the only time a search following such a telephone call ever uncovered anything, they found a small wooden crate, tucked away in a corner of the cargo compartment of the plane indicated by the caller. On opening the crate, safety experts found a dozen kilograms of oranges, which they ate later with gusto...

Error of judgment

In the years since skyjacking had been first invented, people had succeeded in diverting aircraft from their original destinations using an incredible variety of things, some of them quite real weapons, others as innocent as plastic toys. The 9/11 terrorists used paper cutting knives... Of course, skyjackers usually took advantage of the helpless situation of the crew, who had little choice but to believe every claim the skyjacker(s) made. I mean, flying at over thirty thousand feet you are not likely to want to find out if that little bottle really does contain nitroglycerine, as claimed, or only aftershave, as the label says. Such things are not likely to make it on board these days but back than, in the time of these stories, some pilots of some airlines were justifiably jumpy over such things and an error of judgment was not so surprising, as you will see in a moment.

The flight in question originated in Rome, and their day started off rather badly with a bomb-scare following an anonymous telephone call. A search of the plane turned up nothing, neither had the security check of the passengers come up with anything untoward. Several hours late and with the crew only vaguely convinced that there was no bomb ticking away to blow them all into low earth orbit, the plane finally climbed to cruising level, settling down for their five hour hop to destination.

No sooner had the "Fasten Seat Belts" sign been switched off, when two men, properly dressed in business suits but without beards or guns, stood up and asked a passing stewardess if they could visit the cockpit. Obviously they knew nothing about that morning's bomb scare or the fact that this particular airline have always had very strong feelings about strangers being allowed into that mysterious office up front.

The girl's tortured brain immediately made the wrong connection and while she pushed the men back into their seats mumbling something negative, the enormity of the real situation suddenly loomed large in her mind's eye. Of course, it wasn't a bomb scare at all, it was this hijacking they were trying to warn them about all along... Seeing that the "hijackers" were once again safely buckled in (thanks goodness, they must have given up, she thought), she rushed forward and related her story to the captain. In a Hollywood movie this fearless knight would have come into the passenger compartment with a stern expression on his face and, possibly after a short fist fight, would have seen to it that the hijackers were locked up in one of the rear toilettes for the rest of the flight. As it was, however, the crew elected to use a completely pragmatic course of action. They locked the office door and radioed ahead for clearance to land at the next available airport.

By repeated and patient use of the radio, controllers were able to gather the following facts. Here was a flight originally threatened by a bomb, now wishing to land at their airport, following a foiled attempt at hijacking. The hijackers had apparently given up, pretending again to be innocent passengers, but one of the stewardesses would be able to point them out to the authorities after landing, which she would willingly do. That there was something fishy about it all had been patently apparent, but the crew sounded sincere enough and in any case controllers had no choice but to flash a full alert.

In no time at all the airport was sealed off from the world, the isolated parking position was surrounded by armed guards and the special anti-terrorist detail of the police took up positions also. The fire trucks and a number of ambulances were parked prudently a few hundred meters away.

The big jet landed gracefully and following instructions received over the radio, they taxied slowly to their assigned parking area. It had been decided earlier that if the hijackers stick to their game of pretending to be ordinary passengers, they would be allowed to come to the terminal together with the rest, including the arch-witness stew, to be grabbed and neutralized inside the building where their chances of escaping would be considerably slimmer.

Things went exactly according to plan and two airport buses hauled all the passengers safely to the transit lounge. There, armed guards suddenly appeared and following the accusing finger of the stewardess, they dragged the two unresisting but mightily surprised gentlemen away.

As you will have guessed by now, the "hijackers" had turned out to be completely ordinary Italian businessmen who had taken an interest in the cockpit of an aircraft type they have never flown in before. They gracefully accepted the apologies offered by the airline as well as the airport authority, soon to be on their way again, with another five -hour delay added to the original six...

I have experienced some of these stories myself, others were handed down by older colleagues. It was nice being a part of it and it is nice to recreate the memories and share it with you today.

Please visit my blog at http://www.roger-wilco.net You will find many more aviation stories and other interesting items there.

What Happened to the American Dream

"The American Dream is that dream of a land in which life should be better and richer and fuller for everyone, with opportunity for each according to ability or achievement. It is a difficult dream for the European upper classes to interpret adequately, and too many of us ourselves have grown weary and mistrustful of it. It is not a dream of motor cars and high wages merely, but a dream of social order in which each man and each woman shall be able to attain to the fullest stature of which they are innately capable, and be recognized by others for what they are, regardless of the fortuitous circumstances of birth or position."

--Historian and writer James Truslow Adams in his 1931 book Epic of America.

Mr. Adams penned these words in the midst of the Great Depression, the worst economic crisis in our history. It is timely to reflect on these words, as it appears that the American Dream is slipping further out of reach for most Americans. If the dream of a better life for our future generations is lost, it will truly mark a turning point for our great Republic. The reason the American Dream is slipping away is due to the actions of politicians running our government and bureaucrats running the Federal Reserve. Those with ability who have earned a better life through their hard work, intelligence and integrity should be attaining a higher position in the social order. Instead, our government is rewarding those Americans who have taken unwarranted risks, made brainless decisions, and willingly chose the course of excessive debt to climb the social ladder.

As the politicians scurry to "save" capitalism through the use of communist measures, more Americans are becoming disheartened. The definition of communism according to Webster's is:

A system in which goods are owned in common and are available to all as needed.

George Bush, Henry Paulson and Ben Bernanke have decided to seize money from the vast majority of Americans who lived within their means, utilized debt sparingly, and worked hard to get ahead, and give it to the most appalling failures in our society. They have shoveled billions to banks that operated their businesses like gambling parlors. They have shoveled hundreds of millions to people who bought houses with no money down, interest only mortgages and fraudulent loan applications. They are now rewarding automakers who made the wrong vehicles, pay 30,000 workers per year to not work, and have only been able to "sell" cars by giving them away with 0% financing to anyone who could sign on the dotted line. These acts fit the definition of communism. We are now more communist than China.

Now, commercial developers are trying to pony up to the taxpayer trough. These egotists used immense amounts of short term debt to overpay for malls, office towers, hotels and apartment complexes. The rental income could never cover the interest expense on the debt. The only way they could possibly make money was if the next moron developer was foolish enough to overpay for the same assets. The market was flying high as the MBA geniuses on Wall Street were able to work their magic by slicing this debt into tranches, getting it rated as investment grade paper by criminally negligent Moody's and S&P, and reselling it to gullible investors throughout the world.

The jig is up. According to the Wall Street Journal, $530 billion of debt will come due in the next three years, with $160 billion due in 2009. Of course, in the America of today, your bad business decisions of yesterday that enriched executives like Steve Roth of Vornado Realty and who received accolades from the business press are cast aside. Just use the "Too Big to Fail" excuse and all is well. The American taxpayer will come to the rescue. The American taxpayer gets screwed no matter what we do. As Americans do the right thing and cut their spending, retailers, malls, and hotels will lose money and developers are already asking for bailouts. Our communist government will take the money from the innocent taxpayers and give it to the rich negligent developers.

Home-builders are lobbying for a $22,000 credit for new home purchases. It certainly makes sense to encourage new homes to be built when there are 2.5 million vacant houses and an 11 month supply of existing homes for sale. I await the future bailout demands of Rolex retailers, Porsche dealers, and caviar makers.

My parents believed that they could provide a better, richer and fuller life for their three children. They worked hard, sacrificed for their kids, deferred their gratification, saved, put us through Catholic school and put us through college. Hard working blue collar middle class parents from South Philly were able to advance their children upward in the American social structure through their determined efforts. I have serious doubts about whether my three boys will live a better life than myself. I'm sure that my grandchildren will not live a better life than myself.

My parents wisely comprehended that shiny new cars and high wages were not what determined who achieved the American Dream. My Dad toiled for 42 years as a truck driver for ARCO, bought used cars his whole life, and never earned more than $32,000 in a year. My parents bought a three bedroom row home in Delaware County in 1955 and methodically paid it off over 30 years. They never borrowed against the house. We didn't eat out three times per week. We didn't go on exotic vacations. Two weeks at the Jersey shore was just fine. My parents had high school degrees, but were able to provide the opportunity for myself, brother and sister to get college degrees and take the next step up in the American social order.

The American Dream was not founded upon wealth and materialism. It revolves around achieving a better life based on the merits of your intelligence, hard work and contribution to the community of all Americans. There is a moral aspect to the American Dream that has been lost over time. James Truslow Adams addressed it in an essay he wrote in 1929:

There are obviously two educations. One should teach us how to make a living and the other how to live. Surely these should never be confused in the mind of any man who has the slightest inkling of what culture is. For most of us it is essential that we should make a living...In the complications of modern life and with our increased accumulation of knowledge, it doubtless helps greatly to compress some years of experience into far fewer years by studying for a particular trace or profession in an institution; but that fact should not blind us to another-namely, that in so doing we are learning a trade or a profession, but are not getting a liberal education as human beings.

The crux of the problem is that Americans, with a strong sense of morality and caring about what is right and wrong, are no longer steering the American ship. Thomas Jefferson declared that Americans had the right to "Life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness" in the Declaration of Independence. The government's obligation is to protect the life and liberty of its people. Representative Ron Paul bluntly speaks the truth about our government:

The obligations of our representatives in Washington are to protect our liberty, not coddle the world, precipitating no-win wars, while bringing bankruptcy and economic turmoil to our people.

Our current system of incentives is inconsistent with the equal rights of others. I was taught the difference between right and wrong by my parents. The pursuit of happiness by Americans is where the American Dream has gone off the track. The pursuit of excessive wealth, power, influence, luxury automobiles, McMansions, and electronic devices has substituted for happiness in the world we live in today. Whatever means necessary to achieve this bastardized American Dream (Nightmare?) has been the mantra of the "Me Generation". Every disgraced CEO of the last year was part of the Baby Boom generation. Parents, schools, corporations, media and government have taught Americans how to make a living, but have done a horrific job in teaching Americans how to live. The government and Federal Reserve have encouraged the warped American Dream through the use of insane tax, fiscal, and interest rate policies.

Federal Reserve Fraud

Thomas Jefferson, a wise man by most accounts, thought central banks were not a very good idea.

If the American people ever allow private banks to control the issue of their currency, first by inflation, then by deflation, the banks and the corporations that will grow up around them will deprive the people of all property until their children wake-up homeless on the continent their fathers conquered.... The issuing power should be taken from the banks and restored to the people, to whom it properly belongs. The modern theory of the perpetuation of debt has drenched the earth with blood, and crushed its inhabitants under burdens ever accumulating.

We did not heed Mr. Jefferson's prudent advice. The result for the American people has been persistent inflation that has destroyed the purchasing power of the US dollar. It takes $1.00 to buy what cost 5 cents in 1914, a 95% loss of purchasing power since the creation of the Federal Reserve. Most of this loss in purchasing power has occurred since 1971. "Tricky Dick" Nixon took the country off the gold standard in 1971 and uncorked the bottle and let the inflation genie out. The unchecked issuance of debt by our government, facilitated by Federal Reserve policies since 1971, has brought our great country to the brink of financial disaster. The organization that caused the problem, did not see this crisis looming, and has utterly failed in stemming the damage, is now taking actions completely outside of its mandate, while telling the public they have the answers. They have duped the American public for 85 years through the insidious use of inflation, and now they are trying to dupe the world into keeping their Ponzi scheme going for a while longer.

The Federal Reserve was created in 1913 with the dual purpose of maximizing employment and preserving stables prices. New York Senator Elihu Root, in voting against the creation of a Federal Reserve, saw a vision of our bleak future:

Little by little, business is enlarged with easy money. With the exhaustless reservoir of the Government of the United States furnishing easy money, the sales increase, the businesses enlarge, more new enterprises are started, the spirit of optimism pervades the community. Bankers are not free from it. They are human. The members of the Federal Reserve board will not be free of it. They are human....Everyone is making money. Everyone is growing rich. It goes up and up, the margin between costs and sales continually growing smaller as a result of the operation of inevitable laws, until finally someone whose judgment was bad, someone whose capacity for business was small, breaks; and as he falls he hits the next brick in the row, and then another, and then another, and down comes the whole structure.

The concept of forming this central bank was to stop bank panics from happening. So far, they are 0 for 2. They were in charge in 1929 during the greatest bank panic in history. Their actions in the 1930's exacerbated and prolonged the Depression. Alan Greenspan and the Fed are the chief cause of the current disaster. The absurdly low interest rates of the early 2000's and the complete lack of oversight of bank lending practices caused the greatest debt bubble in history. During September and October, the country experienced an electronic bank run. Americans rightfully lost trust in all financial institutions and began withdrawing their money. The Federal Reserve has done the only thing it knows how to do. Print money. It has doubled its balance sheet to $2.3 trillion.

The Federal Reserve is a privately controlled institution that is essentially under the direction of the biggest banks in the country. Whose best interests do you think it is looking out for? Zero interest rates penalize senior citizen savers in order to save reckless borrowers.

The only competent Federal Reserve Chairman in the last 40 years, Paul Volcker, had this to say about the actions of Ben Bernanke in the last year.

The Federal Reserve has judged it necessary to take actions that extend to the very edge of its lawful and implied powers, transcending in the process certain long-embedded central banking principles and practices. What appears to be in substance a direct transfer of mortgage and mortgage-backed securities of questionable pedigree from an investment bank to the Federal Reserve seems to test the time-honored central bank mantra in time of crisis: lend freely at high rates against good collateral; test it to the point of no return.

Since these words were spoken by Mr. Volcker, the Federal Reserve has gone way beyond their lawful and implied powers. Look at its balance sheet as of last week. It has more than doubled its balance sheet in the last few months. As you can see they have been busy making loans to financial institutions throughout the world. These loans are being made with your money.

The Federal Reserve is supposed to be protecting the people of the United States. Transparency is essential for financial systems and democracies to function. Instead, Ben Bernanke is withholding which banks have borrowed from the Federal Reserve and what collateral was put up for the loans. They have lent out over $2 trillion of your money with no accountability to the American taxpayer. Bloomberg News has sued the Federal Reserve to obtain this information under the Freedom of Information Act. They are covering up their actions because they know that the collateral they have accepted is worthless. These are criminal actions with the intent to deceive the American public. The government and Federal Reserve work for "We the People", not vice versa.

Thank You Sir, May I Have Another

Last week the Federal Reserve decreased its discount rate to .25%, the lowest in history. They also announced they would use any means necessary to re-inflate our bubble economy. Deflation is not a bad thing for most Americans. Cheaper gas is nice, cheaper food is nice, cheaper cars are nice, and flat screen TVs are nice. For people and countries without debt, deflation is just fine. That does not describe U.S. consumers or the U.S. government.

Deflation when you are a country that has $10.6 trillion in debt will annihilate the debtor. Therefore, Mr. Bernanke has chosen to try and inflate us out of this mess. As an expert on the Great Depression, Ben believes that fiscal and monetary expansion will save the country. There is one significant difference. When the crisis hit the U.S. in1929, total U.S. debt as a percentage of GDP was about 200% and we were a net exporter nation. We enter this crisis with total U.S. debt exceeding 350% of GDP and we have a trade deficit of $700 billion.

The Federal Reserve and Obama administration are about to add trillions of debt when we already have record amounts of debt. The brilliant James Grant sums up the dilemma:

If the Fed is going to create boatloads of depreciating, non-yielding dollar bills, who will absorb them? Who will finance the Obama administration's looming titanic fiscal deficits? Who will finance America's annual surplus of consumption over production (after 25 more or less continuous years, almost a national trait)? Inflation is a kind of governmentally sanctioned white-collar crime. Every crime needs a dupe. Now that the Fed has announced its plan to deceive, where will it find its victims? Today's policy makers allow, there are risks to "creating" a trillion or so of new currency every few months, but that is tomorrow's worry. On today's agenda is a deflationary abyss.

Foreigners have been buyers of 70% of our newly issued debt in the last few years. Does Ben Bernanke really believe that foreigners will be willing to accept 2% interest for 10 years on bonds while we are printing trillions of new dollars? The all out assault on deflation will work. It will work so well that it will lead to a crash in the US dollar as foreigners begin to shun the debased currency. A hyperinflationary bust ala Argentina and the Weimer Republic is in our future. There is one thing for sure. Whatever happens will take the Fed by surprise. They didn't see the credit crisis coming and will not see the inflation tsunami before it washes over us. Economist Irwin Kellner knows this will not end well. "While virtually no one is raising prices in today's depressed economy, all this liquidity will soon become an accident looking for a place to happen."

The last 85 years of allowing our currency to be manipulated by a private bank has been a series of crisis, failure, and mismanagement. Ron Paul clearly articulates why the Federal Reserve has helped destroy the American Dream and needs to be abolished:

Abolishing the Federal Reserve will allow Congress to reassert its constitutional authority over monetary policy. Though the Federal Reserve policy harms the average American, it benefits those in a position to take advantage of the cycles in monetary policy. The main beneficiaries are those who receive access to artificially inflated money and/or credit before the inflationary effects of the policy impact the entire economy. Federal Reserve policies also benefit big spending politicians who use the inflated currency created by the Fed to hide the true costs of the welfare-warfare state. It is time for Congress to put the interests of the American people ahead of the special interests and their own appetite for big government.

Government in Action

We've created a behemoth government agency called Homeland Security at a cost of $50.5 billion per year, employing 203,000 people as our response to the 9/11 tragedy. How much would it have cost to have installed a $39.99 Wal-Mart deadbolt lock on every cockpit cabin door of every plane in the world before 9/11? There are approximately 20,000 commercial airplanes in the world. The cost would have been $800,000 and 9/11 would have been averted. Based on the government's outstanding record of fiscal management ($1,200 toilet seats), we could easily assume that it would cost $1,000 per cockpit door, rather than $39.99. In that case, the bill would have been $20 million.

For a $20 million investment we would have averted 3,000 deaths at the WTC, 4,500 deaths of American soldiers, 30,000 wounded American soldiers, countless thousands of innocent Iraqi deaths, $850 billion of taxpayer funds spent on the War on Terror, and the $50 billion per year we spend on a vast government bureaucracy that is not making our lives safer or better in any way. Our government had the power, the funds, and the ability to install a simple deadbolt lock. They did not. Government fails because it is corrupt, incompetent, mismanaged, and self serving.

We are about to experience the largest government outlay in the history of our glorious Republic. President elect Obama and his team of economic masterminds are preparing to borrow and spend the country back to prosperity. Mr. Obama wants to create 3 million new jobs in 2009. Considering that there are only 1.5 million people unemployed in the construction field, it is uncertain how he will employ all of the cashiers, burger flippers, and Wall Street paper shufflers in the infrastructure build out of our country. The Obama plan to spend $1 trillion to stimulate our economy has the 17,000 lobbyists in Washington DC swarming like voracious locusts over a field of crops. It will be the biggest pig roast in the history of our country. These lobbyists will utilize the $3 billion per year they spend (bribe) to "influence" policymakers like there is no tomorrow. "The ever-increasing cost of the yet-to-be-seen stimulus is like chum in the water for lobbyists circling to snap up some taxpayer cash for their clients," said Steve Ellis of Taxpayers for Common Sense, a watchdog group.

Examples of the kind of stimulus we can look forward to, according to the LA Times, are as follows:

Rather than rebuilding highways, a nonprofit group called Reconnecting America wants the government to focus on a "21st century national transportation system" of mass transit and walking and bike paths.

The National Assn. of Railroad Passengers is pushing for $10 billion for intercity passenger rail projects.

The business community is seeking a series of tax breaks that it says will foster growth and return money to the federal Treasury. It favors, among other things, a tax rebate to middle-class taxpayers, a sizable reduction in the corporate capital gains tax and a sharp reduction in the tax rate on earnings that firms in the United States get from foreign subsidiaries.

The housing industry wants all buyers to receive a tax credit for a home purchase and to have the government subsidize mortgage rates through a "buy-down" program lowering borrowing costs.

The National Retail Federation proposes that sales tax holidays be held during March, July and October 2009, each lasting 10 days. The cost of this program would be $20 billion.

The National Automobile Dealers Assn. is seeking a tax break encouraging more people to buy cars and a "cash for clunkers" program that helps people trade in older vehicles for new, more fuel-efficient ones.

"The catfish industry is on the verge of collapse," said Marty Fuller of the Catfish Farmers of America, citing high feed prices and an increase of imports. About 6,000 jobs are at stake, mostly in economically depressed areas in states such as Arkansas, Mississippi, Alabama and Louisiana. Officials are talking about seeking $50 million in aid as a stimulus.

Now that I know the catfish industry is safe I can sleep better at night knowing the $1 trillion won't be wasted on anything frivolous. You can be sure that the more outrageous projects are not even being discussed openly. They will slide through on page 895 of the coming bill. Every congressman, except Ron Paul, will be bought off with goodies for their district.

Everybody Knows That the Captain Lied

Poet and singer/songwriter Leonard Cohen captures the current mood of the country in his song Everybody Knows. The financial and political game is rigged against the good guys. The poor will stay poor and the rich will get richer. The captain is your political leaders, fat cat CEOs, and investment professionals. The American ship of state is leaking.

Everybody knows that the dice are loaded
Everybody rolls with their fingers crossed
Everybody knows that the war is over
Everybody knows the good guys lost
Everybody knows the fight was fixed
The poor stay poor, the rich get rich
That's how it goes
Everybody knows

Everybody knows that the boat is leaking
Everybody knows that the captain lied
Everybody got this broken feeling
Like their father or their dog just died

I'm now convinced that the only qualification to be a CEO of a U.S. company is to have guts. How else could you explain John Thain's demand that he receive a $10 million bonus from Merrill Lynch (MER) after leading that prestigious firm to losses of $24.4 billion in the previous four quarters? Steve Roth, the CEO of Vornado Realty (VNO0, raked in $71.8 million last year in compensation. His company has ridden the wave of cheap debt for the last eight years. He brilliantly doubled the debt of his company from $6.2 billion in 2005 to $12.9 billion in 2007. The firm's leverage ratio exploded from 54% to 68%. He did deals that didn't make sense from a cash flow standpoint. His business plan was based on the greater fool theory. Now, he is the greater fool. His stock price has plummeted 46%. No bank is willing to lend a commercial developer a dime. The commercial development Ponzi scheme will collapse next year. But, not too worry. Steve and his fellow incompetent gamblers want the U.S. taxpayer to bail them out. In the America of today, the taxpayer will again be screwed and the rich ruling elite will retain their place in the social order. The government has chosen to make you the greater fool.

Thomas Friedman in a recent NYT article correctly assesses the corrupt financial system we are stuck with:

I have no sympathy for Madoff. But the fact is his alleged Ponzi scheme was only slightly more outrageous than the 'legal' scheme that Wall Street was running, fueled by cheap credit, low standards and high greed. What do you call giving a worker who makes only $14,000 a year a nothing-down and nothing-to-pay-for-two-years mortgage to buy a $750,000 home, and then bundling that mortgage with 100 others into bonds, which Moody's or Standard & Poor's rate AAA, and then selling them to banks and pension funds the world over? That is what our financial industry was doing. If that isn't a pyramid scheme, what is?

The dice are loaded and the fight is fixed. Those who played by the rules, lived within their means, went to work every day, didn't flip condos, or use home equity to lease a Mercedes, will pay for those who lied, cheated, and cut corners. This is how the American Dream has turned into the American Nightmare.

American Dream Redux - Patriots Needed

Below is an email I received this week from a lady named Cindy regarding my last article about Bernie Madoff:

Mr. Quinn...I just completed reading your article and could not agree with you more...Possibly a word of advice will ease my pain...I am a single mother with 3 children, 23, 19, 16....I am 52, self made, and worked my entire life to achieve a comfortable level of success for my family...For years I ran side by side accounts with Paine Webber, Merrill Lynch and Bernie Madoff. Amazingly, I met an associate of Madoff's at a Church in Fort Lauderdale and entrusted him with $10,000 16 yrs ago....Nothing posh...Simply good.....In the last 5 yrs Madoff out performed all, so naturally I moved my accounts and fed my Madoff feeder...Now, $1.7M later I am destitute...I will begin fore-closure on 3 of my investment properties and loose [sic] my primary home for I can no longer afford it....Why should a little guy like me have to suffer the consequences of an SEC over site...OHHH...I'm sorry, we will do better next time???

Why is it OK for Madoff to sit in his $10M apartment out on bail, watching TV and playing on the Internet?...Why is it OK for him to afford the most powerful former SEC attorneys now in private practice that will delay his trial for 3-5 yrs...How can our government allow this to happen...How is Ok to bail out Wall St with $700B while I stress out and cry like a baby over my loss....

How is it OK for Obama to be spending Christmas in Hawaii with his family staying at a $30M mansion, while my sickly mother flies from NC to Fort Lauderdale to hold and comfort her daughter....How is it OK that we have no Xmas tree or gifts this year?...How is it OK that my and my children's trust in mankind has been shattered....

I suppose we will survive, but how we don't know....

The evil perpetrated by Bernie Madoff and his kind on Wall Street have disillusioned the American public and have driven another stake into the heart of the American Dream. The greed, false promises and fraudulent schemes by investment professionals and bank CEOs has shattered the dreams of millions. The immoral vision of immense wages, tremendous power, and elite social status has driven many to cheat the innocent.

As my father crosses the threshold into the final stages of his ultimately losing ten year battle with Alzheimer's disease, I can't help but contrast the compassion, care, empathy and love that my Dad has experienced from nurses, doctors, aides, and ambulance drivers, with the coldness, selfishness, materialism, egotism and narcissism exhibited by Wall Street scam artists, power hungry politicians, and pompous government bureaucrats. Dedicated caring nurses are paid a few thousand dollars per year. Criminally incompetent bank CEOs are paid hundreds of millions per year. Who benefits society more?

I'm convinced that the majority of Americans are decent human beings. They want a richer and fuller life, with a legitimate opportunity for advancement. The last 25 years of materialistic psychosis was a temporary deviation on the road towards the American Dream. If the authorities would let capitalism run its course and allow the painful deleveraging that is needed, we could get back on course. If it takes a depression to accomplish this required deleveraging, so be it. We've survived depressions before. It is time to resist the Federal Reserve criminality and government abuse of power. Ron Paul's call for new patriots must be our rallying cry to reclaim the American Dream:

The original American patriots were those individuals brave enough to resist with force the oppressive power of King George. I accept the definition of patriotism as that effort to resist oppressive state power. The true patriot is motivated by a sense of responsibility and out of self-interest for himself, his family, and the future of his country to resist government abuse of power. He rejects the notion that patriotism means obedience to the state.

Many people are looking for an easy answer to the tyranny that is being imposed upon us by the oligopoly of government, corporations, and media. There is no easy answer. The original patriots struggled for 14 years to free themselves from British tyranny. Failure meant the hangman's noose. Our politicians, corporate CEOs, and media pundits will provide comforting "solutions" that have been crafted by PR maggots. Their crafted talking points are lies. They have no idea what they are doing. The only question is whether rational change will come when the existing system collapses under the weight of its lies, or we take back the country through grassroots efforts and spreading the truth through the internet.