Supposed Democrats Who Support Bill Gibbons (Republican)

The supporters as listed are:

Leslie Ballin, Thomas Henderson, Rickey Peete,
Marvin Ballin, W.W Herenton, Lucian T. Pera,
Margaret Box, Dr. Benjamin Hooks, Mike Robb,
Judge Joe Brown, Arthur Horne III, Maxine Smith,
Charles Carpenter, Carmichael Johnson, Karl S. Schledwitz,
W.J Harold, B. Collins, James Kerley, Henry Turley,
Pace Cooper, Lisa Krupica, Roy C. Turner,
John Farris, Hunter Lane Jr., Becky Tuttle,
Jeff Fogelman, Sandra McQuain, Dale Tuttle,
Richard Fields, Deidre Malone, Ricky E. Wilkins,
Willie Gregory, Tajuan Stout Mitchell, Eldredge Williams,
Albert C. Harvey, Bill Morris, David Zak


Norma Lester,
SCDP Secretary

The Soldier's Story Hasn't Changed

This is one of my favorite Movies, of all time. The caption below is indicative, of the entire movie. Throughout the movie Master Sergeant Vernon Waters (Adolph Ceasar), makes comments like this:

Master Sergeant Vernon Waters: You know the damage one ignorant Negro can do? We were in France in the first war; we'd won decorations. But the white boys had told all them French gals that we had tails. Then they found this ignorant colored soldier, paid him to tie a tail to his ass and run around half-naked, making monkey sounds. Put him on the big round table in the Cafe Napoleon, put a reed in his hand, crown on his head, blanket on his shoulders, and made him eat *bananas* in front of all them Frenchies. Oh, how the white boys danced that night... passed out leaflets with that boy's picture on it. Called him Moonshine, King of the Monkeys. And when we slit his throat, you know that fool asked us what he had done wrong?

Is New Orleans Ready ?

For half of the former residents, it doesn't matter anyway. At least half of them, haven't returned home. Newly elected Mayor Ray C. Nagin has already warned us, they won't have the money to pay the bus drivers. I would bet a higher percentage of the drivers, probably have returned home. They don't represent the majority of the evacuees, they are employed. Mortgages don't just disappear. Someone has to take responsibility for them.

With most of the residents gone. Why do they need all the buses anyway? Could it be for the convenience of the people, that are already there? I just want people to recognize the writing on the wall. The city of New Orleans is going to be rebuilt, no doubt about it. Just not the way we remember. The disenfranchised are being displaced. Is New Orleans ready? I think so, just not the one of old.

When Cops And Crooks, Are One In The Same

What do we do then? I have been blaming the criminals only, for all the illegal activity we're experiencing. Not giving equal attention to the fact, that they must have some help. I always knew there were crooked policeman, but I underestimated their impact. It only takes a little sour milk, to spoil the whole dish.

In order to really combat this. We have to nip it in the bud. I think we have to start at the top. This explains the reason we see all these hotbeds of crime, in our community. The crooks have discovered what policeman to pay off. I applaud the efforts of the department, in their recent probes. From what I am hearing. There needs to be a lot more.

What A Difference A Decade Makes

I sometimes forget how talented this lady was. To listen to her in her prime is like listening to an angel. I can only imagine, being that I've never heard an angel sing. It has just become so commonplace to see her in compromising positions. I'm quick to forget what all the fuss is about. Then I run across something like this to remind me of her voice. Let's pray that she gets herself together. Look at the video below, for a taste of greatness from the past. It almost takes your breath away.

FYI

The Federal minimum wage for non-exempt employees is $5.15 per hour. However, many states have a higher minimum wage – in such circumstances, the employer must pay the higher of the two. Currently, there are 12 states that have a higher minimum wage than what the federal law requires.



Washington - $7.16

Hawaii - $6.25

Delaware - $6.15

Connecticut - $7.10

Rhode Island - $6.75

Massachusetts - $6.75

Maine - $6.25

Vermont - $6.75

Oregon - $7.05

California - $6.75

Alaska - $7.15

Illinois - $5.50

King Of The Low Blows

I heard Bobby O'Jay say something this morning, that I thought was a low blow itself. I think Bobby O'Jay has taken pretty much the same attitude I have. When it comes to Thaddeus Matthews. He usually doesn't even pay this stuff any attention. Talking about this idiocy only adds fuel to the fire. If people didn't talk about it, it would soon disappear. Some people just won't let this go though. I personally think they are undercover haters of the Mayor myself. They just aren't ready to defend their positions against his supporters. I heard that can be a thankless job. The absence of a leg to stand on doesn't help either.

Some people don't seem to be warming up to the idea of a a Herenton/Frazier matchup, on behalf of Lemoyen Owen College. There are some people who want to see a real heavyweight fight. Let's be serious here. These are two sixty year old men, going three exhibition rounds. Nobody is trying to move up in the WBA ranks. Thaddeus Matthews has volunteered himself in Joe Frazier's place. Thinking it may garner more support for his show. I guess he would volunteer, he has nothing to lose. He is already lower than a catepillars belly. I guarantee he would want part of the proceeds. In any event it's a win ,win situation for him. The recall issue is over, it's water under the bridge now. It seems some people would like to see it, myself not included. He could use any help he can get paying that $51,000 he owes.

But back to what Bobby said. "The Mayor would need a steel jockey strap. This guy is the king, of the low blows". Thaddeus would come in the ring, going for his balls. Testicles is the correct medical term. This explains why he is so anxious to fight the Mayor. He has no plans of fighting fair. I don't usually agree with Bobby O'Jay but I do about this. This time he may have a point.

This You Will Never See

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Happy Memorial Day

They shall not grow old, as we that are left grow old;
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning
We will remember them.
Over 225,000 Americans died in World War I.

Over 400,000 Americans died in World War II.

Over 64,000 Americans died in Korea.

Over 58,000 Americans died in the longest war
in American history, Vietnam.

There have been 2,464 deaths in the Iraqi war
this far, and climbing.

These Americans, through a supreme sacrifice,
bestowed upon us an opportunity
to pursue liberty and justice for all.

We will remember them.

Lest we forget.

Minimum Wage / Immigration, Watch It

This could prove to be a double edged sword. Especially for the minorities. You might find people in support of one position, because of the other. It will depend largely on the intelligence, of the voters. And what side of the fence, the majority is siding with. If Democrats can stall the voters until after the election. The minimum wage issue, isn't likely to be settled. Arkansas is one of the few states, to raise it on it's own. We already know where the Republicans stand. If they can manage to bring supporters of both platforms together. That would count for a significant number of voters. One thing I have come to expect in dealing with politicians. It's always about politics, and being reelected. Let me paint the scenario.

This may sound cold and insensitive, but it's true. The only people worried about the minimum wage, are those people who will be taking those jobs. The largest portion of the workforce, aren't working for minimum wage anyway. It's mainly the unemployable, and the young people who fill those jobs. Even many of those jobs after some time, turn into decent livelihoods. A man once told me "if you do anything long enough, and well enough. It will give you a comfortable living". When you really think about it, that's the truth. The immigrants have taken this mentality, and formed themselves a stronghold. As I always say "America is not going to be held hostage. Employers are not going to pay $20 hr., for someone to pick up paper". They'll just find a cheaper workforce. Which is what in essence, they have done.

To understand what's happening here, just consider this. If I only have money for three employees, in my budget. If you force me to pay them more, without giving me more money. What is going to happen? Somebody is going to loose their job. Raising the minimum wage, will undoubtedly cause some people to lose their jobs. Are you willing to pay $5 for a Big Mac? It boils down to supply and demand.I bet the immigrants and their supporters, aren't raising a fuss about the issue. Supposedly they're taking all the low paying jobs anyway. I don't think they are, but they will.

What's Good For The Goose

This was listed as a hot news article in the Commercial Appeal. It makes you wonder who is writing these stories and what is their real agenda? I'm not condoning wasteful spending, but that's just the atmosphere. Where was this same concern when we were signing John Calipari for $1.6 million? I hear this same explanation about him filling the seats. And the national exposure he brings. That's just what they tell the public. To sweep the issue under the rug. This story isn't about Calipari though. It's just in the same vein. To see what I said about him, read my earlier post: http://indepcons.blogspot.com/2006/04/i-say-let-him-go.html

The Chancellor at the University of Tennessee 'Bill Owen', is under the gun now. He has had some questionable spending practices lately. There is a $28,000 discrepancy of unauthorized expenditures. Due to the latest spending debacle in 2003. Which resulted in the resigning of the former University Of Tennessee president 'John Shumaker'. You would think they would be extra careful. I think surely they would've double checked everything. I'm almost certain they did. This will amount to another witch hunt. I think he has fallen victim to the same scrutiny as Mayor Willie Herenton and MLGW Director Joseph Lee. It brings to mind something I once heard a racist say. "One hundred dollars a week. Is to much for a Black Man to make". Of course now the stakes are much higher. Instead of singles, this is for thousands. Is $100 thousand dollars annualy too much for a Black Man to make? In the minds of some people it is, based on public reaction. This is not race specific. Often this sentiment is shared, by both Black and White.

One thing I haven't heard mentioned by anyone perpetuating this probe. These homes are the property of the University. Any rise in property values and home improvements directly benefit the school. The former property is going to be sold I'm sure for more than the University paid for it initially. The Commercial Appeal won't have a follow up story on the sale of the house and where that profit goes. To get a detailed list of the money that's been spent. Read the link below:

In all fairness though I must admit. The wife Alice Owen is a bit eccentric.

http://www.commercialappeal.com/mca/local/article/0,2845,MCA_25340_4731272,00.html

How Do You Counteract Acts Of God ?

The latest catastrophe took place in Jakarta, Indonesia. The death toll less than 24hrs. later, is over 3500 victims and climbing. Before it's over, this will exceed 9/11 and Hurricane Katrina combined. For many of the victims, death came like a thief in the night. Many of these people were fast asleep. When the largest devastation since Tsunami in 2004 happened. It was 5:54 in the morning, before the break of day. This story is constantly changing, not just the death toll. I have been following it, since it first happened. America is the best country in the world, for more than one reason. It is truly a blessing from God, that we are here. Ask those people affected directly by this unimaginable occurrence. Village heads recorded their names so the victims could be added to the official death toll. Subarjo, a 70-year-old food vendor, sobbed next to his dead wife, his house destroyed. "I couldn't help my wife ... I was trying to rescue my children, one with a broken leg, and then the house collapsed," he said. "I have to accept this as our destiny, as God's will."There is a message here for those willing to listen. If it doesn't destroy you, it only makes you better. That may be hard to understand during this time. Thank God for people like Mr. Subargo. The gospel goes forth. In the midst of trouble, he looks to his only help. The quake cracked the runway and waiting area at the Yogyakarta airport, closing it to aircraft until at least Sunday while inspections take place, Transport Minister Hatta Radjasa said. Officials said the famed 7th century Borobudur Buddhist temple, one of Indonesia's most popular tourist attractions, was not affected by the quake. Nearby Prambanan, a spectacular Hindu temple to the southeast, suffered some damage but it was not immediately clear how much, officials said.

Close to 1 million tourists visit the temples every year. Wonder what Buddha says about this? Read the full story below:

http://articles.news.aol.com/news/article.adp?id=20060526230409990011&ncid=NWS00010000000001

Boys Shouldn't Wear Dresses

Not just because they might end up looking like this. But in my opinion it is against what's normal behavior. A person's sexuality is their own business. But the rest of the world doesn't have to adjust to them. The world isn't ready to take on, men wearing evening gowns in public. As well they shouldn't. Where do we draw the line on personal freedom? What happens when somebody decides, they don't want to wear clothes at all?

A teenage boy in Florida, initially was told he would be denied admission to his senior prom. That's if he showed up, wearing a dress. He wouldn't be admitted if he did. The school system folded. They allowed him to attend the festivities. After reviewing the facts with school attorneys. They decided to let it happen. It seems the Principal had allowed him to wear female apparel in the past. I think that's where the ball was dropped. It should have never taken place. We can't let anything slide. It will come back to haunt us later. The school system did say this wouldn't happen again. They have taken steps, to make sure of that.

http://www.findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m1355/is_19_95/ai_54726276

Ambivalent Man

Today was a slow day for me newswise. So I decided to take this rare opportunity. To talk about something, that some of the readers of this blog have asked about. Of course we know the picture to the right, isn't my personal portrait. So what is it, and what does it represent? The title of the picture is "The Ambivalent Man". I chose the picture because it best represents what this blog is about. I try to look at things from an unbiased perspective. My mind isn't cluttered with preconceived notions. I'm wide open to facts. I'll be the first to admit I'm wrong, if it's proven. Unbiased doesn't mean being close minded. It just means you don't have preformed opinions, written in stone. I am conservative in my politics, but above all I'm fair. This is what Ambivalent means:

ambivalent
adj 1: characterized by a mixture of opposite feelings or attitudes; "she felt ambivalent about his proposal"; "an ambivalent position on rent control" 2: uncertain or unable to decide about what course to follow; "was ambivalent about having children"

I welcome all the different opinions, that read and respond to this site. Having said that, I'll say this. I don't go along with the flow. That's the purpose of this blog. To have somewhere the full story is told. If one doesn't want his opinion checked or scrutinized, for correctness. This is not the place. Our intent here, is to get to the bottom. In order to achieve that, to be ambivalent definitely helps.

Winner!!!!

Look At This

The story I wrote earlier, was misconstrued obviously. It wasn't written to show my disapproval of Mayor Ray Nagin. Nor was it to endorse Lt. Gov. Mitch Landrieu either. Personally I think Nagin is an undercover Republican. He was a new Democratic convert, prior to being elected as Mayor of New Orleans. In his acceptance speech this week, he apologized to President Bush. Why apologize if you're telling the truth to begin with? Below is a story written on the Governor's website about the meeting they had. She didn't have very much to say. Read her somewhat cool response:

http://www.gov.state.la.us/index.cfm?md=newsroom&tmp=detail&articleID=1899

Don't forget about Ray Nagin's earlier statement. He accused Gov. Blanco of delaying rescue efforts, for the residents of the 9th ward. He has since apologized to the Governess, as well as President Bush. This is the truth concerning Hurricane Katrina, according to Ray Nagin . Read the link below, and see what you think:

http://www.newsmax.com/archives/ic/2005/9/5/234033.shtml

This is another article of an interview conducted following Hurricane Katrina. It sounds much like the argument you hear many still use. Though he has since recanted his statements :

http://www.cnn.com/2005/US/09/02/nagin.transcript/index.html


All I'm trying to say is this. Don't roll out the red carpet, for Ray Nagin yet. You have to be very careful what you ask for. You just might get exactly that. I don't see how anyone could see these things, and not have questions. It's going to be interesting to see how this turns out.

No Child Left Behind

We are reminded daily of our children not making the grade. When something good happens, it receives much less attention. This story highlights some of the fruit, of the famous "No Child Left Behind" program. The one that many opponents don't understand. Why can't we learn on the level of others? We learn what we want to learn. I haven't met a child yet, that can't play a Gameboy.If someone else can do it, why can't you? As I've always stated, "it's working for the young people". Children who haven't bought into the idea, that the education system is unfair. They seem to be doing fine. The story in the link below is a prime example. These children are excelling in a supposedly faulty enviroment. Good thing they don't know it yet. Read the article below:



http://www.commercialappeal.com/mca/education/article/0,2673,MCA_22897_4719130,00.html

My Pick For The Next American Idol

Finalist On American Idol

Frederick Williams Ruled Insane (Not Guilty)

No matter how many times I say this. It seems to get lost in the mix. I am not condoning anybody taking anybody's life, under any circumstance. The unlawful taking of another person's life, is simply wrong. Except where it is approved under the law. Protecting ones self and their family, and in the commission of law enforcement. There are provisions set forth, to protect the law abiding citizens rights. My opinion also doesn't include capital punishment either. Obviously insanity is a plea that you can use also. That is the one being used, in this particular case. Judge Arthur Bennett is a man, of integrity and character. I respect his opinion. I know it is based on the law.

I don't know all the facts of this case, so I can't make an educated decision. I don't think we'll ever hear all the specifics, of this trial. I don't think he could have possibly gotten a fair jury trial, with jurors from Memphis. Considering the fact he killed his wife. A deputy sheriff, and two other firemen. Emotions would have taken over. The instructions were best left to a Judge. It worked to the advantage of the defense. I will say this though. In every rumor, there is at least a grain of truth. The rumor I heard, contained accusations of infidelity. Out of respect for those left behind. I won't repeat that rumor here. I must admit it raises serious questions though. Regardless of whether we agree or not, that is the Judges decision.

See story below:
http://www.commercialappeal.com/mca/local/article/0,2845,MCA_25340_4718072,00.html

The Coup Conspiracy

It is said that people who buy one conspiracy theory, usually buy into all of them. I hadn't heard this one in a while, but I remember when it came out. The same people that believe this story. Probably believe American helped Osama Bin Laden get away. This past week another hypothetical situation was added to the list. According to this theory Sadam Huessein, as well as Osama Bin Laden were part of the masterplan. The American people have used every excuse under the sun, why we shouldn't have gone to war in Iraq. It amazes me that so many Christian Americans especially, abandon their faith in tumultuous times. We shouldn't be surprised at present events. It has been prophesized. There will be wars and rumors of wars.In the various scenarios offered for our consideration. This is a bit far fetched in my opinion. This parody blames the Bush family, for the inception of Saddam Huessein. Something that happened 69 years ago. I doubt if either of the Bush men were there. The senior Bush could possibly be Sadam Huessein's father. If he had been in that country. At the age of thirteen, he could have been a hell of a youngster. If you agree with this account. This clearly builds a case against the Bush family. Except for it being one sided, in it's attack. Watch this video and honestly answer the questions, that arise in your mind:


http://www.american-pictures.com/gives/thanks/index.htm

Barry Ties The Babe

Barry Bonds tied the long standing record of Babe Ruth at 714 homers. The only milestone left, is 755 held by Hank Aaron. Click on link below, to see record homerun:




http://www.youtube.com/watch_fullscreen?video_id=3uFisax9JRg&l=69&t=OEgsToPDskK7q_ae8bC54d6vws32yYPO&s=2A24520B94F7E107:8A51374783A7BCE6&fs=1&title=Barry%20Bonds#714 (Must See!)

Ray Nagin Wins Close Race

Ray Nagin was reelected as Mayor of New Orleans on yesterday. He won by a narrow margin of victory. Honestly I didn't expect him to win. This whole thing is a surprise to me, and many others. I don't have a voice in this matter to a degree. I'm on the outside of the circle. I don't live or vote, in that city. Which is the main problem, I have with this whole thing. I don't think many of those who did, should have voted either. Don't mistake my observations for an endorsement of Lt. Gov. Landrieu, because it's not. From what I understand, his platform is much like that of Ray Nagin. My concern is that of a taxpaying citizen. The newly elected Mayor will oversee the largest rebuilding effort in American history. I would say a portion of my taxes is going toward the effort. The American taxpayer is going to pay for the rebuilding of the "Big Easy".

I thought he stuck his foot in his mouth. With his unsubstantiated and unfounded comments, after Hurricane Katrina. To top things off, he made the infamous "Chocolate City" speech. Obviously that didn't hurt him too bad. At least not beyond repair. He still won the election. When I think about things he has said of late. I'm not sure, I want the Louis Farakahn mentality controlling billions of American dollars. Unless he says one thing, and does another. That's what we may have here. Only time will tell. I have plenty of reservations, but I'll keep them to myself. I'm sure this is the first of many, Mayor Nagin inspired stories. The voters of New Orleans have spoken, whether we like it or not. At this point all we can do is pray for and support him.

FYI

This is a five year history, of murders in Memphis:

153 in 2005 = 12.75 per month
118 in 2004 = 9.83 per month
138 in 2003 = 11.5 per month
162 in 2002 = 13.5 per month
156 in 2001 = 13 per month
159 in 2000 = 13.25 per month

There are 59 as I post this in 2006 which = 14.75 per month.

At this rate we will have 177 murders in 2006, let's pray that we don't.

Meth Mouth

I think if law enforcement officers, encounter someone looking like this. They should arrest them, right on the spot. This is a sure sign that this person is using Methamphetamines. This shows signs of not just one time use, but an ongoing drug problem. Which ultimately results, in a person having "Meth Mouth". Like we see in the above picture. Unless a person is physically or mentally handicapped. No one in their right mind, would walk around looking this way. This doesn't just happen to these people over night. This condition is not is not genetic, or something you come down with. In order to get this condition. You have to use the drug. Any of these conditions associated with the disease. These people brought it on themselves.

If he hasn't committed a crime yet, it's just a matter of time. He is a walking crime, waiting to happen. Then he will end up going to jail. We don't allow people to suffer if they don't have to, once they go to jail. When they suffer some of the symptoms of "Meth Mouth". Which they are bound to suffer, as a result of this condition. I heard a inmate being interviewed yesterday. He said his dental bills would total about $25,000. Who do you think is going to pay? The law abiding taxpaying citizens. Considering the way this condition comes about. I don't have any sympathy for them. Free dental work shouldn't be an incentive for going to jail. I say pull all their teeth out, and let them go baremouthed. Adults are responsible for their own teeth.

Disqualified Contestant (Wk 13)

Rankings For The House And Senate

Full List of Rankings
Senate:
Name Rank in Senate Score

Sen. Frist (R-TN) 1 96.75
Sen. Specter (R-PA) 2 82.31
Sen. McCain (R-AZ) 3 80.94
Sen. Grassley (R-IA) 4 78.50
Sen. Reid (D-NV) 5 71.06
Sen. Domenici (R-NM) 6 69.25
Sen. McConnell (R-KY) 7 64.56
Sen. Stevens (R-AK) 8 61.56
Sen. Hatch (R-UT) 9 56.75
Sen. Cochran (R-MS) 10 54.57
Sen. Feinstein (D-CA) 11 54.54
Sen. Santorum (R-PA) 12 54.44
Sen. Leahy (D-VT) 13 51.69
Sen. Lugar (R-IN) 14 48.50
Sen. Byrd (D-WV) 15 48.31
Sen. Kennedy (D-MA) 16 48.31
Sen. Kyl (R-AZ) 17 47.75
Sen. Schumer (D-NY) 18 47.56
Sen. Levin (D-MI) 19 47.25
Sen. Graham (R-SC) 20 47.19
Sen. Warner (R-VA) 21 45.94
Sen. Durbin (D-IL) 22 45.75
Sen. Hutchison (R-TX) 23 43.95
Sen. Roberts (R-KS) 24 43.56
Sen. Inhofe (R-OK) 25 43.52
Sen. DeWine (R-OH) 26 41.37
Sen. Lott (R-MS) 27 41.00
Sen. Biden (D-DE) 28 40.88
Sen. Dorgan (D-ND) 29 40.64
Sen. Bond (R-MO) 30 40.25
Sen. Cornyn (R-TX) 31 39.56
Sen. Dodd (D-CT) 32 39.25
Sen. Inouye (D-HI) 33 39.00
Sen. Shelby (R-AL) 34 38.75
Sen. Harkin (D-IA) 35 37.94
Sen. Smith (R-OR) 36 37.31
Sen. Brownback (R-KS) 37 35.77
Sen. Baucus (D-MT) 38 35.77
Sen. Craig (R-ID) 39 35.69
Sen. Gregg (R-NH) 40 35.56
Sen. Clinton (D-NY) 41 35.06
Sen. Allen (R-VA) 42 34.81
Sen. Hagel (R-NE) 43 34.62
Sen. Bingaman (D-NM) 44 33.56
Sen. Bennett (R-UT) 45 33.50
Sen. Murray (D-WA) 46 33.37
Sen. Burns (R-MT) 47 33.00
Sen. Sessions (R-AL) 48 32.62
Sen. Ensign (R-NV) 49 32.62
Sen. Snowe (R-ME) 50 32.50
Sen. Allard (R-CO) 51 31.75
Sen. Collins (R-ME) 52 31.44
Sen. Thomas (R-WY) 53 31.31
Sen. Kohl (D-WI) 54 31.25
Sen. Lieberman (D-CT) 55 30.94
Sen. Dole (R-NC) 56 30.31
Sen. Rockefeller (D-WV) 57 29.24
Sen. Boxer (D-CA) 58 28.87
Sen. Crapo (R-ID) 59 28.50
Sen. Landrieu (D-LA) 60 28.31
Sen. Kerry (D-MA) 61 28.19
Sen. Bunning (R-KY) 62 27.00
Sen. Conrad (D-ND) 63 26.56
Sen. Chambliss (R-GA) 64 26.37
Sen. Enzi (R-WY) 65 26.12
Sen. Sununu (R-NH) 66 26.06
Sen. Mikulski (D-MD) 67 25.75
Sen. Obama (D-IL) 68 25.68
Sen. Nelson (D-FL) 69 25.50
Sen. Voinovich (R-OH) 70 25.12
Sen. Akaka (D-HI) 71 24.67
Sen. Talent (R-MO) 72 24.65
Sen. Sarbanes (D-MD) 73 24.50
Sen. Coleman (R-MN) 74 23.81
Sen. Jeffords (I-VT) 75 23.50
Sen. Johnson (D-SD) 76 23.50
Sen. Coburn (R-OK) 77 22.81
Sen. Vitter (R-LA) 78 22.31
Sen. Wyden (D-OR) 79 22.16
Sen. Thune (R-SD) 80 22.00
Sen. Alexander (R-TN) 81 21.44
Sen. Feingold (D-WI) 82 21.06
Sen. Reed (D-RI) 83 19.75
Sen. Isakson (R-GA) 84 19.50
Sen. Martinez (R-FL) 85 19.50
Sen. Chafee (R-RI) 86 18.67
Sen. Murkowski (R-AK) 87 18.57
Sen. Nelson (D-NE) 88 18.06
Sen. Bayh (D-IN) 89 16.37
Sen. Salazar (D-CO) 90 16.31
Sen. Dayton (D-MN) 91 15.75
Sen. Lincoln (D-AR) 92 14.50
Sen. Cantwell (D-WA) 93 14.25
Sen. Burr (R-NC) 94 14.00
Sen. Stabenow (D-MI) 95 12.50
Sen. Carper (D-DE) 96 12.50
Sen. Lautenberg (D-NJ) 97 11.50
Sen. Pryor (D-AR) 98 11.50
Sen. DeMint (R-SC) 99 11.00









House:
Name Rank in House Score
Rep. Hastert (R-IL-14) 1 97.25
Rep. DeLay (R-TX-22) 2 63.50
Rep. Lewis (R-CA-41) 3 60.57
Rep. Young (R-AK-AL) 4 55.00
Rep. Sensenbrenner (R-WI-5) 5 48.00
Rep. Barton (R-TX-6) 6 45.56
Rep. Thomas (R-CA-22) 7 42.13
Rep. Pelosi (D-CA-8) 8 41.89
Rep. Obey (D-WI-7) 9 40.00
Rep. Regula (R-OH-16) 10 38.38
Rep. Hobson (R-OH-7) 11 36.13
Rep. Young (R-FL-10) 12 35.50
Rep. Murtha (D-PA-12) 13 34.75
Rep. Wolf (R-VA-10) 14 34.38
Rep. Hoyer (D-MD-5) 15 33.91
Rep. Bonilla (R-TX-23) 16 33.88
Rep. Oxley (R-OH-4) 17 33.63
Rep. Knollenberg (R-MI-9) 18 33.50
Rep. Blunt (R-MO-7) 19 33.37
Rep. Rogers (R-KY-5) 20 33.25
Rep. Mollohan (D-WV-1) 21 32.25
Rep. Hunter (R-CA-52) 22 31.94
Rep. Taylor (R-NC-11) 23 31.88
Rep. Bachus (R-AL-6) 24 31.75
Rep. DeLauro (D-CT-3) 25 31.38
Rep. Dicks (D-WA-6) 26 31.25
Rep. McCrery (R-LA-4) 27 30.99
Rep. Visclosky (D-IN-1) 28 30.50
Rep. Reynolds (R-NY-26) 29 30.50
Rep. Kolbe (R-AZ-8) 30 29.44
Rep. Baker (R-LA-6) 31 29.25
Rep. Pryce (R-OH-15) 32 29.25
Rep. Boehner (R-OH-8) 33 28.88
Rep. Doolittle (R-CA-4) 34 28.63
Rep. Walsh (R-NY-25) 35 27.88
Rep. Smith (R-NJ-4) 36 27.50
Rep. Olver (D-MA-1) 37 26.50
Rep. Weldon (R-PA-7) 38 26.19
Rep. Frank (D-MA-4) 39 25.88
Rep. Gallegly (R-CA-24) 40 25.50
Rep. Herger (R-CA-2) 41 25.50
Rep. Smith (R-TX-21) 42 25.38
Rep. Rangel (D-NY-15) 43 25.25
Rep. Jones (R-NC-3) 44 25.12
Rep. Castle (R-DE-AL) 45 24.75
Rep. Everett (R-AL-2) 46 24.50
Rep. Shays (R-CT-4) 47 24.41
Rep. Ryun (R-KS-2) 48 24.27
Rep. Clyburn (D-SC-6) 49 24.00
Rep. Tiahrt (R-KS-4) 50 24.00
Rep. Miller (D-CA-7) 51 23.94
Rep. Hyde (R-IL-6) 52 23.88
Rep. Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL-18) 53 23.59
Rep. Nussle (R-IA-1) 54 23.44
Rep. Gillmor (R-OH-5) 55 23.38
Rep. Pombo (R-CA-11) 56 23.38
Rep. McHugh (R-NY-23) 57 23.25
Rep. Davis (R-VA-11) 58 23.25
Rep. Davis (R-VA-1) 59 23.00
Rep. Sabo (D-MN-5) 60 22.88
Rep. LaHood (R-IL-18) 61 22.75
Rep. Johnson (R-CT-5) 62 22.50
Rep. Hoekstra (R-MI-2) 63 22.50
Rep. McKeon (R-CA-25) 64 22.50
Rep. Pence (R-IN-6) 65 22.31
Rep. Kelly (R-NY-19) 66 22.25
Rep. Hayes (R-NC-8) 67 22.25
Rep. Gibbons (R-NV-2) 68 22.12
Rep. Leach (R-IA-2) 69 22.00
Rep. Simmons (R-CT-2) 70 22.00
Rep. Biggert (R-IL-13) 71 21.87
Rep. Shaw (R-FL-22) 72 21.63
Rep. Sessions (R-TX-32) 73 21.62
Rep. Putnam (R-FL-12) 74 21.62
Rep. Wicker (R-MS-1) 75 21.50
Rep. Lowey (D-NY-18) 76 21.38
Rep. Kingston (R-GA-1) 77 21.38
Rep. Cantor (R-VA-7) 78 21.37
Rep. Dreier (R-CA-26) 79 21.31
Rep. Spratt (D-SC-5) 80 21.25
Rep. Ehlers (R-MI-3) 81 21.15
Rep. Edwards (D-TX-17) 82 21.13
Rep. King (R-NY-3) 83 21.12
Rep. Renzi (R-AZ-1) 84 21.12
Rep. LaTourette (R-OH-14) 85 21.00
Rep. Dingell (D-MI-15) 86 21.00
Rep. Linder (R-GA-7) 87 21.00
Rep. Simpson (R-ID-2) 88 21.00
Rep. Feeney (R-FL-24) 89 21.00
Rep. Boehlert (R-NY-24) 90 20.94
Rep. Skelton (D-MO-4) 91 20.88
Rep. Calvert (R-CA-44) 92 20.75
Rep. Issa (R-CA-49) 93 20.75
Rep. Coble (R-NC-6) 94 20.63
Rep. Shuster (R-PA-9) 95 20.53
Rep. Hall (R-TX-4) 96 20.38
Rep. Johnson (R-TX-3) 97 20.38
Rep. Rogers (R-MI-8) 98 20.37
Rep. Goodlatte (R-VA-6) 99 20.25
Rep. Crenshaw (R-FL-4) 100 20.00
Rep. Emanuel (D-IL-5) 101 19.94
Rep. Cannon (R-UT-3) 102 19.87
Rep. Saxton (R-NJ-3) 103 19.79
Rep. Brown-Waite (R-FL-5) 104 19.75
Rep. Lucas (R-OK-3) 105 19.50
Rep. Hulshof (R-MO-9) 106 19.50
Rep. Forbes (R-VA-4) 107 19.38
Rep. Duncan (R-TN-2) 108 19.29
Rep. LoBiondo (R-NJ-2) 109 19.25
Rep. Barrett (R-SC-3) 110 19.20
Rep. Petri (R-WI-6) 111 19.19
Rep. Wilson (R-SC-2) 112 19.13
Rep. Hostettler (R-IN-8) 113 19.12
Rep. Stearns (R-FL-6) 114 19.00
Rep. McCaul (R-TX-10) 115 19.00
Rep. Conyers (D-MI-14) 116 18.88
Rep. Fossella (R-NY-13) 117 18.87
Rep. Bradley (R-NH-1) 118 18.87
Rep. Gilchrest (R-MD-1) 119 18.75
Rep. Peterson (R-PA-5) 120 18.75
Rep. Inglis (R-SC-4) 121 18.62
Rep. Weller (R-IL-11) 122 18.50
Rep. Norwood (R-GA-9) 123 18.50
Rep. English (R-PA-3) 124 18.50
Rep. Boustany (R-LA-7) 125 18.50
Rep. Jindal (R-LA-1) 126 18.50
Rep. Ryan (R-WI-1) 127 18.37
Rep. Royce (R-CA-40) 128 18.25
Rep. Chocola (R-IN-2) 129 18.12
Rep. Conaway (R-TX-11) 130 18.06
Rep. Upton (R-MI-6) 131 18.00
Rep. Cramer (D-AL-5) 132 18.00
Rep. Camp (R-MI-4) 133 18.00
Rep. Bartlett (R-MD-6) 134 18.00
Rep. Thornberry (R-TX-13) 135 18.00
Rep. Stark (D-CA-13) 136 18.00
Rep. Kilpatrick (D-MI-13) 137 18.00
Rep. Markey (D-MA-7) 138 17.92
Rep. Mica (R-FL-7) 139 17.88
Rep. Flake (R-AZ-6) 140 17.87
Rep. Mack (R-FL-14) 141 17.87
Rep. Hayworth (R-AZ-5) 142 17.75
Rep. Walden (R-OR-2) 143 17.75
Rep. Sherwood (R-PA-10) 144 17.75
Rep. Pearce (R-NM-2) 145 17.75
Rep. Garrett (R-NJ-5) 146 17.75
Rep. Wilson (R-NM-1) 147 17.63
Rep. Miller (R-CA-42) 148 17.62
Rep. Burton (R-IN-5) 149 17.50
Rep. Ney (R-OH-18) 150 17.38
Rep. Jackson Lee (D-TX-18) 151 17.38
Rep. Rogers (R-AL-3) 152 17.12
Rep. McHenry (R-NC-10) 153 17.12
Rep. Buyer (R-IN-4) 154 17.06
Rep. Levin (D-MI-12) 155 17.00
Rep. Weldon (R-FL-15) 156 17.00
Rep. Tiberi (R-OH-12) 157 17.00
Rep. Musgrave (R-CO-4) 158 17.00
Rep. Cubin (R-WY-AL) 159 16.88
Rep. Souder (R-IN-3) 160 16.88
Rep. Lungren (R-CA-3) 161 16.87
Rep. Radanovich (R-CA-19) 162 16.75
Rep. Foley (R-FL-16) 163 16.75
Rep. Kaptur (D-OH-9) 164 16.63
Rep. Hefley (R-CO-5) 165 16.63
Rep. Oberstar (D-MN-8) 166 16.63
Rep. Turner (R-OH-3) 167 16.62
Rep. Reichert (R-WA-8) 168 16.62
Rep. Davis (R-KY-4) 169 16.50
Rep. Istook (R-OK-5) 170 16.38
Rep. Waxman (D-CA-30) 171 16.38
Rep. Moran (R-KS-1) 172 16.37
Rep. Bilirakis (R-FL-9) 173 16.25
Rep. Hastings (R-WA-4) 174 16.25
Rep. Rahall (D-WV-3) 175 16.13
Rep. Kline (R-MN-2) 176 16.12
Rep. Lantos (D-CA-12) 177 16.06
Rep. Keller (R-FL-8) 178 16.00
Rep. Wamp (R-TN-3) 179 15.88
Rep. Woolsey (D-CA-6) 180 15.88
Rep. Kennedy (R-MN-6) 181 15.87
Rep. Porter (R-NV-3) 182 15.87
Rep. Schwarz (R-MI-7) 183 15.87
Rep. McMorris (R-WA-5) 184 15.75
Rep. Jackson (D-IL-2) 185 15.64
Rep. Chabot (R-OH-1) 186 15.62
Rep. Platts (R-PA-19) 187 15.62
Rep. Slaughter (D-NY-28) 188 15.50
Rep. Latham (R-IA-4) 189 15.50
Rep. Frelinghuysen (R-NJ-11) 190 15.50
Rep. Whitfield (R-KY-1) 191 15.50
Rep. Northup (R-KY-3) 192 15.50
Rep. Granger (R-TX-12) 193 15.50
Rep. Drake (R-VA-2) 194 15.50
Rep. Sweeney (R-NY-20) 195 15.44
Rep. Gordon (D-TN-6) 196.38 15
Rep. Watt (D-NC-12) 197 15.38
Rep. Goode (R-VA-5) 198 15.37
Rep. Hart (R-PA-4) 199 15.37
Rep. Harman (D-CA-36) 200 15.31
Rep. Hensarling (R-TX-5) 201 15.25
Rep. Paul (R-TX-14) 202 15.12
Rep. Emerson (R-MO-8) 203 15.04
Rep. Aderholt (R-AL-4) 204 15.00
Rep. Gerlach (R-PA-6) 205 15.00
Rep. Johnson (R-IL-15) 206 15.00
Rep. King (R-IA-5) 207 14.94
Rep. Moran (D-VA-8) 208 14.88
Rep. Deal (R-GA-10) 209 14.88
Rep. Ortiz (D-TX-27) 210 14.75
Rep. Cardin (D-MD-3) 211 14.75
Rep. McDermott (D-WA-7) 212 14.75
Rep. Roybal-Allard (D-CA-34) 213 14.75
Res. Com. Fortuno (R-PR-AL) 214 14.75
Rep. Hinchey (D-NY-22) 215 14.75
Rep. Miller (R-MI-10) 216 14.75
Rep. Culberson (R-TX-7) 217 14.75
Rep. Rohrabacher (R-CA-46) 218 14.63
Rep. Kennedy (D-RI-1) 219 14.62
Rep. Franks (R-AZ-2) 220 14.62
Rep. Rehberg (R-MT-AL) 221 14.62
Rep. Osborne (R-NE-3) 222 14.62
Rep. Boozman (R-AR-3) 223 14.53
Rep. McNulty (D-NY-21) 224 14.50
Rep. Ramstad (R-MN-3) 225 14.50
Rep. Kirk (R-IL-10) 226 14.50
Rep. Bonner (R-AL-1) 227 14.50
Rep. Manzullo (R-IL-16) 228 14.38
Rep. Pastor (D-AZ-4) 229 14.32
Rep. Carter (R-TX-31) 230 14.25
Rep. Serrano (D-NY-16) 231 14.20
Rep. Poe (R-TX-2) 232 14.12
Rep. Gutknecht (R-MN-1) 233 14.00
Rep. Alexander (R-LA-5) 234 14.00
Rep. Akin (R-MO-2) 235 14.00
Rep. Dent (R-PA-15) 236 14.00
Rep. Lewis (R-KY-2) 237 13.91
Rep. Kuhl (R-NY-29) 238 13.87
Rep. Miller (R-FL-1) 239 13.80
Rep. Diaz-Balart (R-FL-21) 240 13.75
Rep. Rothman (D-NJ-9) 241 13.75
Rep. Harris (R-FL-13) 242 13.75
Rep. Shadegg (R-AZ-3) 243 13.62
Rep. Pitts (R-PA-16) 244 13.62
Rep. Farr (D-CA-17) 245 13.52
Rep. Boucher (D-VA-9) 246 13.50
Rep. Bishop (D-GA-2) 247 13.50
Rep. Jenkins (R-TN-1) 248 13.50
Rep. Baird (D-WA-3) 249 13.50
Rep. Brown (R-SC-1) 250 13.50
Rep. Graves (R-MO-6) 251 13.37
Rep. Berry (D-AR-1) 252 13.25
Rep. Neugebauer (R-TX-19) 253 13.25
Rep. Fattah (D-PA-2) 254 13.00
Rep. Diaz-Balart (R-FL-25) 255 13.00
Rep. Price (D-NC-4) 256 12.87
Rep. Solis (D-CA-32) 257 12.75
Rep. Gohmert (R-TX-1) 258 12.75
Rep. Kanjorski (D-PA-11) 259 12.63
Rep. DeFazio (D-OR-4) 260 12.63
Rep. Waters (D-CA-35) 261 12.50
Rep. Boyd (D-FL-2) 262 12.50
Rep. Marchant (R-TX-24) 263 12.50
Rep. Brady (R-TX-8) 264 12.41
Rep. McCotter (R-MI-11) 265 12.25
Rep. Fitzpatrick (R-PA-8) 266 12.25
Rep. Kildee (D-MI-5) 267 12.13
Rep. Berman (D-CA-28) 268 11.88
Rep. Bass (R-NH-2) 269 11.88
Rep. Sodrel (R-IN-9) 270 11.75
Rep. Price (R-GA-6) 271 11.62
Rep. Taylor (D-MS-4) 272 11.62
Rep. Nadler (D-NY-8) 273 11.54
Rep. Ackerman (D-NY-5) 274 11.34
Rep. Green (R-WI-8) 275 11.25
Rep. Reyes (D-TX-16) 276 11.25
Rep. Tancredo (R-CO-6) 277 11.25
Rep. Nunes (R-CA-21) 278 11.25
Rep. Grijalva (D-AZ-7) 279 11.25
Rep. Myrick (R-NC-9) 280 11.13
Rep. Maloney (D-NY-14) 281 11.12
Rep. Evans (D-IL-17) 282 11.00
Rep. Towns (D-NY-10) 283 11.00
Rep. Beauprez (R-CO-7) 284 11.00
Rep. Blackburn (R-TN-7) 285 11.00
Rep. Bono (R-CA-45) 286 10.93
Rep. Lewis (D-GA-5) 287 10.89
Del. Norton (D-DC-AL) 288 10.75
Rep. Filner (D-CA-51) 289 10.75
Rep. Napolitano (D-CA-38) 290 10.75
Rep. Ferguson (R-NJ-7) 291 10.75
Rep. Foxx (R-NC-5) 292 10.75
Rep. Murphy (R-PA-18) 293 10.50
Rep. Eshoo (D-CA-14) 294 10.38
Rep. Udall (D-CO-2) 295 10.37
Rep. Westmoreland (R-GA-8) 296 10.37
Rep. Neal (D-MA-2) 297 10.25
Rep. Engel (D-NY-17) 298 10.25
Rep. Stupak (D-MI-1) 299 10.25
Rep. Shimkus (R-IL-19) 300 10.25
Rep. Pickering (R-MS-3) 301 10.12
Rep. Boswell (D-IA-3) 302 10.12
Rep. Pallone (D-NJ-6) 303 10.04
Rep. Peterson (D-MN-7) 304 10.00
Rep. Tanner (D-TN-8) 305 10.00
Rep. Hooley (D-OR-5) 306 10.00
Rep. Snyder (D-AR-2) 307 10.00
Rep. Cole (R-OK-4) 308 10.00
Rep. Owens (D-NY-11) 309 9.88
Rep. Costello (D-IL-12) 310 9.85
Rep. Terry (R-NE-2) 311 9.75
Rep. Larson (D-CT-1) 312 9.75
Rep. Matheson (D-UT-2) 313 9.75
Rep. Blumenauer (D-OR-3) 314 9.65
Rep. Brown (D-OH-13) 315 9.63
Rep. Johnson (D-TX-30) 315 9.63
Rep. Velazquez (D-NY-12) 317 9.62
Rep. Gutierrez (D-IL-4) 318 9.50
Rep. Crowley (D-NY-7) 319 9.50
Rep. Brown (D-FL-3) 320 9.38
Rep. Thompson (D-MS-2) 321 9.25
Rep. Meehan (D-MA-5) 322 9.25
Rep. Tierney (D-MA-6) 323 9.25
Rep. Sherman (D-CA-27) 324 9.25
Rep. Gingrey (R-GA-11) 325 9.25
Rep. Lee (D-CA-9) 326 9.06
Rep. Andrews (D-NJ-1) 327 9.04
Rep. Burgess (R-TX-26) 328 9.00
Rep. Fortenberry (R-NE-1) 329 8.87
Rep. Sullivan (R-OK-1) 330 8.84
Rep. Schakowsky (D-IL-9) 331 8.75
Rep. Pomeroy (D-ND-AL) 332 8.62
Rep. Wexler (D-FL-19) 333 8.56
Rep. Kind (D-WI-3) 334 8.50
Rep. Kucinich (D-OH-10) 335 8.50
Rep. Delahunt (D-MA-10) 336 8.37
Rep. Sanchez (D-CA-47) 337 8.37
Rep. Payne (D-NJ-10) 338 8.25
Rep. Sanders (I-VT-AL) 339 8.25
Rep. Holt (D-NJ-12) 340 8.25
Rep. Etheridge (D-NC-2) 341 8.25
Rep. Weiner (D-NY-9) 342 8.25
Rep. Thompson (D-CA-1) 343 8.25
Rep. Otter (R-ID-1) 344 8.25
Rep. Millender-McDonald (D-CA-37) 345 8.19
Rep. Cummings (D-MD-7) 346 8.18
Rep. Abercrombie (D-HI-1) 347 8.13
Rep. Tubbs Jones (D-OH-11) 348 8.12
Rep. Holden (D-PA-17) 349 8.00
Rep. Lofgren (D-CA-16) 350 8.00
Rep. Hinojosa (D-TX-15) 351 7.87
Rep. Capito (R-WV-2) 352 7.87
Rep. Baca (D-CA-43) 353 7.78
Rep. Moore (D-KS-3) 354 7.75
Rep. Scott (D-VA-3) 355 7.62
Del. Faleomavaega (D-AS-AL) 356 7.50
Rep. McIntyre (D-NC-7) 357 7.50
Rep. Tauscher (D-CA-10) 358 7.50
Rep. Allen (D-ME-1) 359 7.50
Rep. Carson (D-IN-7) 360 7.37
Rep. Larsen (D-WA-2) 361 7.37
Rep. Capps (D-CA-23) 362 7.33
Rep. Becerra (D-CA-31) 363 7.25
Rep. Scott (D-GA-13) 364 7.25
Rep. Green (D-TX-29) 365 7.25
Rep. Inslee (D-WA-1) 366 7.25
Rep. Israel (D-NY-2) 367 7.25
Rep. Bishop (R-UT-1) 368 7.25
Rep. Berkley (D-NV-1) 369 7.12
Rep. Capuano (D-MA-8) 370 7.12
Rep. Doggett (D-TX-25) 371 6.88
Rep. Hastings (D-FL-23) 372 6.88
Rep. Wynn (D-MD-4) 373 6.88
Rep. Pascrell (D-NJ-8) 374 6.87
Rep. Clay (D-MO-1) 375 6.87
Rep. Honda (D-CA-15) 376 6.87
Rep. Wasserman Schultz (D-FL-20) 377 6.87
Rep. Doyle (D-PA-14) 378 6.75
Rep. Smith (D-WA-9) 379 6.75
Rep. Davis (D-IL-7) 380 6.75
Rep. Wu (D-OR-1) 381 6.75
Rep. Van Hollen (D-MD-8) 382 6.75
Rep. Ford (D-TN-9) 383 6.62
Rep. Udall (D-NM-3) 384 6.62
Del. Christensen (D-VI-AL) 385 6.50
Rep. McCarthy (D-NY-4) 386 6.25
Rep. Schiff (D-CA-29) 387 6.25
Rep. Higgins (D-NY-27) 388 6.25
Rep. Watson (D-CA-33) 389 6.14
Rep. Meek (D-FL-17) 390 6.12
Rep. Meeks (D-NY-6) 391 6.10
Rep. Rush (D-IL-1) 392 6.00
Rep. Langevin (D-RI-2) 393 6.00
Rep. Cuellar (D-TX-28) 394 6.00
Rep. DeGette (D-CO-1) 395 5.94
Rep. Davis (D-AL-7) 396 5.87
Rep. Davis (D-CA-53) 397 5.87
Rep. Lynch (D-MA-9) 398 5.80
Rep. Brady (D-PA-1) 399 5.75
Rep. Bishop (D-NY-1) 400 5.75
Rep. Ryan (D-OH-17) 401 5.62
Rep. Strickland (D-OH-6) 402 5.50
Rep. Davis (D-TN-4) 403 5.50
Rep. Cooper (D-TN-5) 404 5.50
Rep. Michaud (D-ME-2) 405 5.50
Rep. Ross (D-AR-4) 406 5.50
Rep. Marshall (D-GA-3) 407 5.25
Rep. McKinney (D-GA-4) 408 5.25
Rep. Herseth (D-SD-AL) 409 5.12
Rep. Case (D-HI-2) 410 5.02
Rep. Jefferson (D-LA-2) 411 5.00
Rep. Chandler (D-KY-6) 412 5.00
Rep. Sanchez (D-CA-39) 413 4.75
Rep. Cardoza (D-CA-18) 414 4.75
Rep. Miller (D-NC-13) 415 4.75
Rep. Ruppersberger (D-MD-2) 416 4.75
Rep. Melancon (D-LA-3) 417 4.75
Rep. Boren (D-OK-2) 418 4.75
Rep. Davis (D-FL-11) 419 4.62
Rep. Gonzalez (D-TX-20) 420 4.62
Rep. Green (D-TX-9) 421 4.62
Rep. Butterfield (D-NC-1) 422 4.62
Rep. Costa (D-CA-20) 423 4.62
Rep. Baldwin (D-WI-2) 424 4.50
Rep. Schwartz (D-PA-13) 425 4.50
Rep. Carnahan (D-MO-3) 426 4.50
Del. Bordallo (D-GU-AL) 427 4.25
Rep. Salazar (D-CO-3) 428 4.25
Rep. McCollum (D-MN-4) 429 4.00
Rep. Barrow (D-GA-12) 430 4.00
Rep. McGovern (D-MA-3) 431 3.87
Rep. Moore (D-WI-4) 432 3.87
Rep. Schmidt (R-OH-2) 433 3.58
Rep. Bean (D-IL-8) 434 3.50
Rep. Cleaver (D-MO-5) 435 3.12
Rep. Lipinski (D-IL-3) 436 2.25
Rep. Matsui (D-CA-5) 437 1.95
Rep. Campbell (R-CA-48) 438 0.64

The Law Is Laid Out, Even For Lesbians

Tk Buchanan (left), Trudy Buchanan and Janine Heiner. Were denied the benefit of a family membership. To the Nuber-East Memphis YMCA, on Quince Ave. this past week.

The longtime attorney for the Y, Mr. Jim Stock. Said the definition of a family for membership has never been challenged, but he didn't sound a conciliatory tone:

"It's a non-discriminatory organization and if people want to consider themselves a family, we'll nurture you and love you and take care of your kids, but we do have the right and probably the obligation of what we consider a family to be."

The Y certainly has that right.

My Picks For Best Perfomance (Wk. 13)

District Contract Schools Vs. Charter Schools

I have always said a strong public school system, is the best source of education. I don't agree with Charter schools, I think they are limited in their benefits. And ultimately it drains much needed funds, from public education coffers. It may serve a certain group, with a defined set of goals. But what about those students who don't have them set yet? In listening to the parents and students today, of the KIP Diamond Academy, the first of it's kind. After listening to the interview with the students and teachers. Even I have some questions, concerning the teachers. I understand the hesitancy of those people, who are skeptical about their mission. We have to be careful. We aren't sending our children to a training camp, of sorts. Anything that has to much of an ethnic aspect, I watch it very closely. I don't assume you have a point, based on your race. Neither am I easily swayed by a wolf in sheeps clothing. Not accusing anybody, just keeping watch. I'm as proud of my heritage, as the next man. But I'm not over indulgent, in it either. I'm not Black and just that, leaving no room for logic. There's more to me than that. Contrary to what some people believe. Everything isn't Black and White.

The key here is parent involvement. If you haven't noticed, or if I haven't said. The parents here, want something different for their children. That's the first, and the most important thing. I feel that's involved, in this whole equation. To get it right at school, it has to start at the house. This whole process begins with the signing of an agreement. They have signed a contract with the school. Just like the school has made a commitment, to the MCS. Everyone has a clear and defined responsibility. If you don't hold up your end of the bargain, time isn't wasted with you. They must say every child can learn, as educators they have to say that. I can read between the lines though. You either get with the progam, or go elsewhere. Students aren't assigned to this school. They seek it out. The parents are actively involved, with the education of their children. They may not be in possession of a PHD themselves, but they want the opportunity for their young ones. For that I have the utmost of respect. For those parents willing, to step up to the plate, and make sacrifices. Every generation should do better, than the generation before. I appreciate the fact that these parents recognize this. The intellects have to watch out, for those with less understanding. Not make a object of advancement of them, for their own personal gain. Like it has happened so often in the past. Let's not forget about the "Cherokee" program. It was something meant for good, that turned out bad. That's what I expect from Charter schools. How can you gauge the future needs, when you don't control anything? You're at a disadvantage. I think "District Contract Schools" is a more progressive name, for alternative schools. Which I don't think, was such a bad idea to begin with.

Come On Over, The Right Way

The President made his first "State Of The Union Address" this term, from the White House. He addressed the pressing issue, of immigration. The drive behind the mass protests all over the country, and the Minutemen project. Both historical events,in their own right. I was looking forward to this being the topic of discussion, on the radio tonight. To my surprise it wasn't. I guess that was wishful thinking, on my part. The only liberal press he gets, is something perceived as bad. President Bush said all the things, I have said from the beginning. It would be ridiculous, to try and kick them (immigrants) all out. First we should stabilize our borders. The temporary work permit, are a compromise. But the end justifies the means. It allows immigrants to become a taxpaying citizen, for a small cost. Compared to what they're paying now. The price is often their lives. Honest, hardworking people are willing to die, to come to America. I like what he said about this issue being neglected for the past twenty years. The illegal immigrants didn't just start coming, across the border last year. The border patrol is working very hard, in the past five years they sent back 6 million people. I agree with the proposal to use the National Guard. The taxpayer is paying them anyway. I think the President's plan has covered all the bases, but I'm just one person. See what your Senator and Congressman has to say. Do you think he has the right number?

Happy Mothers Day

Why This Argument Doesn't Hold Water

I have gotten in sort of a war of words, with the organizer of the recall. I posted this on my blog, so everyone can see my full argument. He'll accuse me of being disrespectful to him, and delete my posts. He challenged Mike Fleming to a debate, which he knows won't happen. Mike Fleming won't give him the free publicity. I'm challenging him, to debate me here. In front of everyone that can read. You are computer literate, let's debate on my blog. You're always on the computer anyway. Instead of posting as Anonymous or something other than your name. Let's post our argument, for everyone to see. In case you don't see this. One of his followers go back and tell him. I'll be waiting right here.

Back to the recall petition. It fell short miserably, in getting the required number of signatures. Everybody doesn't agree with their assessment of the Mayor's performance. They would do well, to try and convince people like myself. Rather than try and intimidate us. Don't underestimate the intelligence of the Memphis voter. You have to bring something I don't agree with all the Mayor's policies either, but I understand checks and balances. I have placed supporters of the recall, in three different categories. They either have an agenda, a particular cause. That or either they are misinformed. They don't have a basic understanding of civics. The Mayor doesn't have the ability to do anything by himself. He has to have the help of some of those same councilpeople, that they put in office. Finally we get to the big P predjudice, like it or not it exists. It's always lurking there somewhere. Wendi Thomas wrote one of her few articles, where I agree with her. In Thursday's Commercial Appeal see my article "Put a Fork in it, it's done" for a link to her article. I don't know who their lawyer is, but he's taking their money. I'm not a lawyer, but I can read through this. Below is the statue they are basing their arguments on. I would love to ask him or the attorney, a few questions.



No state statue can supersede the Tennessee Constitution. And in Article 11 section 9 of the constitution it reads: Any Municipality after adopting home rule may continue to operate under its existing charter,or amend the same, or adopt and thereafter amend a new charter to provide for its governmental and proprietary powers, duties and functions, and for the form,structure,personnel and organization of its government

I'll just start with one question. What does the word amend mean? The City Charter was written 127 years ago. It would stand to reason their would have been some amendments. This doesn't only go out to him. But any voter who disagrees with what I said. I welcome respectful exchange of different opinions.

Is This An Invasion?

Elton John and David Furnish 'married' in a civil partnership ceremony in the UK.

Singer Melissa Etheridge and her partner, actress Tammy Lynn Michaels, are expecting twins from an anonymous sperm donor.

Rosie O'Donnell will replace Meredith Vieira on The View.

Republicans Are Conservative Completely

There are several key positions coming up in the August elections. I find it interesting the Republican party, is only getting involved in those races. They know they can win. At least those they consider very important. Unlike the Democratic party, with so many candidates. One of the upcoming positions has 29 Democratic candidates, vying for the same seat. In the May 2 primary, most Republicans didn't stake their whole campaign on winning the Primary. Like many Democratic candidates have obviouly did. For Democrats the hardest part, is getting the party nomination. Depending on the race, sometimes that's all that's needed.

In the Republican party getting the most votes doesn't guarantee the parties endorsement. Which I think is good. I heard some people talk about, taking away the nomination of a candidate. Due to the fact that he was rumored to have Republican ties. Ask John Willingham, the Republican candidate for County Mayor. The party isn't backing him. They know he isn't likely to beat A.C. Wharton, even with their endorsement. Though A.C. Wharton is a Democrat, they don't feel a pressing need to unseat him. I think they're using their guns for the sheriffs race. That is the most powerful position in the county. In that race they feel they have a winning entry. That's where their efforts and endorsements are. Republicans are conserving everything, even their vote.

What I Think About Wendi

I just came across this picture, that inspired me to put my thoughts about Wendi Thomas on my blog. I wanted to write something about her leaving, when she left going to Baltimore. Just as well I didn't say anything. She was back before we missed her. Whenever you say something critical, of people in the limelight. Usually you're accused of hating on them. Generally that's not the case with my positions. Unfortunately this time, that might be the truth. I do hate the fact that Ms. Thomas, is such a successful writer in my beloved city. If more people felt like me, her job would be more challenging. Her subject matter is predictable at best, but that's not her fault. She's learned to play the hand she was dealt. Might I add, she has learned to play it well at that. She almost gave her gift away. She had enough sense to come back.

A column writer in Memphis job is half done already. If you talk about racial issues half the time. That will keep a lot of readers happy. If you are able to straddle the fence like Ms. Thomas does. That's another 25% of the assignment. That's like 75% of the job, being done for you. That doesn't leave very much originality on her part. She applies her technical writing skills to her readers raw ideas. In the minds of the impressionable giving them validity. She basically reacts to the publics emotions. She sides with the responsible people half the time, the irresponsible ones the other half. Always having a cushion no matter what happens. I won't make some stupid statement like "she's dumb". Simply because I don't agree with her. Like some people do about the President. He's running a country, many of them can't run their household. To the contrary I think she's very smart. It's the people that she writes for, I have a problem with. Why is there a market for this type of discussion in 2006?

This morning Wendi Thomas wrote an article I almost totally agreed with. I think it serves as proof to a degree, of what I'm trying to convey. The same element that she usually sides with. When proven unpopular, unlike the leopard she changes spots. She is always brash in her delivery, in my opinion. That's what many of her readers like about her though. If you ask me, she could use a lesson in respecting her elders. I am a stickler for decency and order. Obviously she is not. It probably has to do with her upbringing. Not that it's necessarily bad, but more relaxed. As she grows older, she'll probably get better. Baltimore was a more diverse and intellectual audience. I think they desired a more progressive message. It wasn't going to be a walk in the park, like writing for the Commercial Appeal. What she is and what she will become. Memphians will get a chance to see for themselves. Now that she is back in the fold, I don't think she'll be leaving again.

Put A Fork In It, It's Done

I was going to write a blog about both the people in this story. I was first going to write about the arrival and departure of Wendi Thomas, at the Commercial Appeal. I wasn't able to find a good picture of her. So somehow the story slipped through the cracks. Then I was going to write about the failure of the recall. And the 45,000 signatures, they supposedly have. I hadn't written about this because, I hoped it would just go away. Since they didn't get the required number of signatures. Why is it even up for discussion? I don't pay any attention to ignorance. As long as they don't get in the way, or hurt someone. Leave them to argue among each other. They'll soon burn themselves out. That or self destruct, like we have here. When I read this mornings newspaper, I was pleasantly surprised. I usually don't agree with what Ms. Thomas has to say. I think she lacks the life experience, to tackle some of her subjects. Even when I agree with what she says, I disagree with how she responds. I'm a stickler for decency and order. This morning in her article, she hit the nail on the head. I agree with almost everything she said. I can't wait to read, the spin he tries to put on this. I like the way Ms. Thomas used his own words against him. Read the story below, on how she cooked this ham.



http://www.commercialappeal.com/mca/local_columnists/article/0,2845,MCA_25341_4689540,00.html

Disqualified Contestant (Wk. 12)

Certificate of Completion Of Attendance

As usual some people got it twisted or are using it to advance their own agendas. High school students not graduating has nothing to do with "NCLB."


"No Child Left Behind" or Is It

Our ancestor's fought too hard for us to get a fair education and We can NOT afford our children, our future to fall victims to this...We have to stay involved and in our children's lives, let's make education mandatory to our youth not optional. The "Certificate of Completion or Attendance" that is being offered in lieu of high school diplomas, is a part of Bush's "No Child Left Behind".

This is how it works:

It is for students who are unable to pass both the Language Arts and Math portions of the 10th grade State Student Assessment Exams Students must take the same 10th grade test over in the 11th and 12th grades until they pass both portions. If they are unable to pass the10th grade test by the 12th grade then they have two options:

1. Drop out and go to a GED program or,
2. accept a "Certificate of Completion" - it is NOT a diploma. Once a student accepts it, they cannot ever get a diploma or a GED. A certificate of completion means that a student can never (as long as they live):

1. go to the armed services
2. go to college
3. go to trade school
4. go to journeyman's school
5. go to beauty school
6. go to culinary arts school
7. get a federal loan in their lifetime

This is the portion of NO CHILD LEFT BEHIND (2001) that Bush slipped in during the 2004 revision of the NCLB bill. It has not been publicized. At a high school in Indiana, in 2005, there were 87 seniors in the graduation class. Five got diplomas and 82 got "Certificates of Completion".

This is being referred to as the "Paper Plantation". It is better for students to drop out and get into a GED program so they may seek other forms of education, later in life, if they desire to do so. All 50 states have "Certificates of Completion or Attendance". Please pass this information along to EVERYONE you know who has school age children. Clergy, please preach it from the pulpits. Our people MUST know this information. Thank you & stay blessed."

No one can make you feel inferior unless you allow them." Martin Luther King, Jr.



http://anti-tandbush.blogspot.com/

My Picks For Best Performances (Wk.12)

Should We Put A Cap On Graduation ?

Parents at Westwood High School are in an uproar about the number of tickets they are being allowed for graduation ceremonies. They have received notice that they are only receiving 10 tickets. As always there are two sides to every story. I can see why the Principals would want to control the crowds. I can also see why the parents would be upset, that they are being limited in their invitations. This isn't something that just came up. I'm surprised the issue hasn't come up before now. I made my mind up earlier today what I thought about the whole thing. Tonight I heard the President of the school board Wanda Halbert and I totally agree with what she said. The schools are being given an allowance. There is no excuse for any graduation taking place in a venue that's not large enough to accommodate the crowd. What she said took the blame off the school board, and placed it squarely on the shoulders of the individual schools. That being the case I think this is something that would work for everyone.

I understand those who say ten tickets is enough. They've attended graduations where you couldn't hear the speaker call the honorees names, for the families shouting when little Pookie's name was called. Don't mention the babies continuously crying. That's no place for them. That or have someone sit in front of you, with so many balloons you can't see the stage. Don't mention the constant walking back and forth. Going where I don't know. Some people say it's just to be seen, I wouldn't dispute that assumption. People stepping over you, with their several trips to the restroom. We can't leave out the cell phones. They're ringing out loud and being used also, especially now they have cameras. I even saw someone standing in their seat at the last ceremony I attended. There is a valid argument for limiting the people who attend. Unfortunately a few mess it up for all.

I understand the other side as well. Everybody doesn't go to disregard public etiquette. They just want to see someone they know graduate. Nothing is wrong with that. Graduation is not just something to be celebrated by the immediate family. It's a community wide event. Just because you don't have a child in the ceremony. Doesn't make you less excited about what is happening. If you want to see little James or Ashley down the street graduate, why not? In fact all taxpayers, pay for the priviledge anyway. All public schools get an allotment, to go toward graduation expenses. Unless it's for a private school. If the people that come to the graduation act like civilized people. I could care less if a hundred people come to see a graduate walk. I'm being facetious here, that would be rare. But you get the picture. Except in extreme situations space shouldn't be an issue.

Why not kill two birds with one stone. This didn't just come up this year. It just now hit the fan. Since the MCS is already footing the bill. Why not remove the red tape? The breakdown is coming in at the individual schools level. They are using this earmarked money, to extend monetary favors. In the past, certain schools have held their commencement ceremonies at major venues. So some schools require more space than others. All graduations come at the same time every year. The MCS should provide the facilities for all graduations. The Cannon Center seats 2100 people, which is more than enough for most schools. That would be a way of repaying the debt, for the Cook Convention Center. Those schools with bigger classes, can have a day set aside for them also. Give them a time slot in a preplanned schedule. When it comes to security we definitely need that. If you run a couple of them in for disorderly conduct. The word will soon get around. That that's not the place for unruly behavior. That problem will soon take care of itself. We can put a cap on graduations. If we do this, it won't be necessary.

Why Does Ignorance Have The Mic ?

It bothers me that when someone says or does something, to show their density. It makes the front page news and always gets media hype. Why as a society do we give so much attention to things we really should ignore? We shouldn't necessarily ignore them, but not give them special attention. Instead we should take steps to change this way of thinking. I watched several shows this weekend that heightened this distaste I have. I watched a show dealing with faith. They even managed to make a mockery of that. I like fun like the next person, but everything isn't supposed to be funny. Some things require serious thought. Just because one's actions haven't landed them in jail, doesn't make it acceptable. When the Black community is highlighted before the rest of the world. I would rather it sometimes be for a worthwhile cause. And not an opportunity to show that we're still in the same place.

People will grab on to any excuse not to do what's right. Generally the right thing requires sacrifice on our part. The right thing is always the best. It amazes me that people listen to things, that have no real basis. If it doesn't contain facts,it really doesn't matter. We can't base our decisions purely on our emotions. There was a misquote by Cookie Johnson saying there was a cure for A.I.D.S, and Magic Johnson was healed. People took that and ran with it, though we know that's not true. People read and remembered that idiotic statement. They didn't see the retraction statement though. Why didn't we spend at least as much time checking it out? Now there is a need for damage control. You have to try and find those people, and reverse their mixed up thinking. Could this be because it takes the responsibility of accountability off them? Once again ignorance of the truth, is no excuse. If someone is infected do you think it matters to them? The end result is the same. What I have a problem with, is this had a audience in the first place. Since when did Cookie Johnson become a spokesperson? When someone gives pertinent information about the spread of the disease it's hidden on PBS, or written in a Medical Journal.

There seems to be this growing sentiment across the country, to challenge authority. There is nothing wrong with raising issues. We just have to raise them within the guidelines. When you listen to some people talk. Thank God those of us who respect decency and honor, we're not outnumbered. Locally we have a recall petition being circulated, by a particular group of citizens. It doesn't represent the opinions of the majority. Not even the minority, in this case. The thing is we have to sift through their outlandish statements. To try and figure out what is true, and what is not. There's no law against making accusations, and not being able to back up what you say.We have yet to hear what really happened to Cynthia McKinney. With the police incident on Capital Hill. Then you have celebrities like Sean Penn and Celine Dion, pointing fingers at the government. In natural disasters, and other acts of God. Stirring up the countries emotions. And those like Jesse Jackson and Louis Farakahn, that claim the levees were purposely blown. I would consider it criminal to spread rumors like this. In the midst of the Katrina catastrophe. You can't yell fire, in a crowded building.

The last thing that really bugs me, is this beef between these rappers. With the multimillion dollars they're making. Why are they still killing each other over turf? A Houston rapper"Big Hawk" was killed a few days ago. I found it interesting that this latest movement, is driven by someone who is no longer living. DJ Screw died of a overdose of drugs. Why would you follow him? These young rappers are dying of stupidity. And with all of them being at the top of the game right now. You would think they would be content. It was only a few years ago, people weren't feeling Houston and Screw. It went from the West coast, to the East coast and that was all. I guess this is considered the dirty South. Rapper "T.I. the King of the South" is in trouble too. Regardless of what coast is reigning. It has always proven to be a tremendous waste of life. Nonetheless we know all about it, because there's no shortage of television cameras to bring it out. If the public doesn't see it, they still hear. If they don't use the paper or the t.v. cameras to catch our attention. They use the microphone.