tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-64023726986772783892024-03-12T20:56:24.188-04:00My Divided LinePolitics, Religion, Philosophy, Life... Sportster MotorcyclesMike Jacobyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00962961240746869584noreply@blogger.comBlogger26125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6402372698677278389.post-39408527525960184982017-01-29T17:08:00.002-05:002017-01-29T18:29:28.575-05:00 Silent for five years….<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
While the past five years have been exciting, and full of
events that have tested the country and world a sense of hope still prevailed.
I’ve had a front row seat for the tragedy at <a href="http://www.nydailynews.com/news/national/victims-charleston-church-shooting-diverse-group-article-1.2263187">Emanuel
AME</a>, and the shooting of <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shooting_of_Walter_Scott">Walter Scott</a>.
The fear and anger felt by those in the community did not give way to violence,
and the victim’s families forgave those who perpetrated these acts of violence.
The community came together as one to continue forward and work together to
confront the past and make a better future.<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
However, this past election season was different. Trump’s
ascension to President of the United States could be considered a sign of the
end times. Reason, Science, and Compassion have left the building. Fear
mongering, Xenophobia, and Fascism, wrapped in a flag carrying a cross, has become the mantra of the highest office the country.<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
While the above paragraph may be dismissed as to general, or
simplistic assessment of the current situation, Trump’s first week has been a
doozy. We joked in the past that his handlers should turn off his Twitter
account, but perhaps it would’ve been more prudent to hide all his pens.<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The thing I fear most now is for an event that will escalate
Trump’s agenda into the stratosphere. We are one “9-11” away from an unraveling
this country has never seen. The concessions and mistakes made during the Bush
administration after 9-11 will be pale by comparison. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<br />
For now, I watch and wait.</div>
Mike Jacobyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00962961240746869584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6402372698677278389.post-72596760682070455432012-03-22T10:26:00.000-04:002015-07-06T20:19:17.953-04:00Southern Migration<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
So, I have settled into my new life south of the border. <st1:place><a href="http://www.sciway.net/city/charleston.html">Charleston, South Carolina</a></st1:place> has become my newest home.
While I have moved about the southeast of <st1:state><st1:place>Pennsylvania</st1:place></st1:state>
for the past 11 years this is the farthest I have ever moved. My wife wanted to
come home to <st1:state><st1:place>South Carolina</st1:place></st1:state>, and
applied to transfer into the <st1:state><st1:place>South Carolina</st1:place></st1:state>
conference of the <st1:place><st1:placename>United</st1:placename> <st1:placename>Methodist</st1:placename>
<st1:placetype>Church</st1:placetype></st1:place>. Lo and behold, to my good
fortune, we landed in the lowcountry.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<st1:city><st1:place>Charleston</st1:place></st1:city> is a
mixture of refugees and locals. One person described <st1:city><st1:place>Charleston</st1:place></st1:city>
as a “conservative city with a drinking problem.” While many have said that the
lowcountry should be called the “slooooowcountry.” I believe it is a little of
both. The refugees are mostly from <st1:state><st1:place>Minnesota</st1:place></st1:state>
and <st1:state><st1:place>Ohio</st1:place></st1:state>. The Navy and Air Force
have a huge presence here, and the area has been undergoing an industrial
rebirth with the arrival of Boeing. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Being one of the oldest cities on the east coast, <st1:city><st1:place><a href="http://www.gozaic.com/Explore/Destinations/Charleston-South-Carolina/?gclid=CM2TnJe43akCFcYE2god0Cf5Yg">Charleston</a></st1:place></st1:city>
has a rich history and culture, and that mixture has seduced this northerner to
stay in the south. Yes, there are some crazy things going on in the news
regarding <st1:state><st1:place>South Carolina</st1:place></st1:state> from the
new discriminatory voter ID law and politicians not exercising the option to
think before speaking, but that kind of thing happens everywhere. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<st1:city><st1:place>Charleston</st1:place></st1:city> is a
motorcycle town. Motorcycles are everywhere since the weather is conducive to
year-round riding. Good beer and barbeque are also the norm. So, I’m content.
What more can I ask for? Well, a job would be nice, but don’t worry it will
come. </div>
Mike Jacobyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00962961240746869584noreply@blogger.com0Charleston, SC, USA32.7765656 -79.930921632.5629571 -80.2467786 32.9901741 -79.615064600000011tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6402372698677278389.post-41429170525901067792011-03-26T21:37:00.008-04:002011-03-30T07:56:47.874-04:00Currently I'm....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZf1XrPCgdY5LSGkJNLKPUuf6ieKObT7HR4yLj5_hupkXRhUGv-0fpGoqc-DTnbdY_1YWJv4UFTsVyIU1tU7LPRZSJu2F3gI0MwTAWXdC1v65Hv6JFNS3hH5kxW0Knq0F9T4JNwciP7g7M/s1600/faceleaks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</a></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">Disillusioned: <span class="dct-tt">Disappointed in someone or something that one discovers to be less good than one had believed. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><span class="dct-tt">Thanks Merriam-Webster. Currently if there was a mood icon over my head it would read “disillusioned.” Why? Well, if you have to ask you either live in a cave with the rest of the troglodytes actually thinking the world is a groovy place to live, or you haven't been sucked into the maelstrom yet. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">What I thought would stop with the Obama administration (corporate greed, senseless wars, putting everyone into poverty) has actually gained momentum. Republicans are gutting every social program possible while demanding the wealthy and corporations pay no taxes. Democrats are not that far behind since they are complacent and in fact probably benefit from those Republican ideals anyway. "Sorry, we're broke, but we have money for bullets, bombs, and statues" <a href="http://tiny.cc/sqfbx">Statues</a>? C'mon Mayor Nutter, really? Oh, and Governor Corbett, cutting education is the easy way out, but we understand. It's hard to make tough choices. Those Natural Gas drillers are tough customers. See folks, our political landscape consists of two teams, that both reek of entitlement, duking it out for the championship. No matter who wins we still lose.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">My only saving grace is motorcycling. Cranking out the throttle on the highway is the only way for me to disconnect anymore, because if think about the current state of affairs too long I really start fearing for my family. They make me vulnerable. I used to laugh when I heard someone say "bringing children into this crazy world was irresponsible." Now, that idea seems plausible. Hell, even Charlie Sheen is starting to make sense.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoPltUJgzC8jIHGh0rctw_8gfIXaU08179yvUbJEGK_5RxlJ7Psgaj5MVyt3cmzhMIieMPxlm7iw5ie9tbIOsRTrfwn3F4w3Hmlgg_yjZSFMvW7tlgq0w_Dl7slWO3rvX7xINrSP-JNZsp/s1600/sheen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoPltUJgzC8jIHGh0rctw_8gfIXaU08179yvUbJEGK_5RxlJ7Psgaj5MVyt3cmzhMIieMPxlm7iw5ie9tbIOsRTrfwn3F4w3Hmlgg_yjZSFMvW7tlgq0w_Dl7slWO3rvX7xINrSP-JNZsp/s320/sheen.jpg" width="320" /></a></div></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Yes, he did say this in one of those crazy <a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/blogs/dailydish/detail?entry_id=82375">interviews</a>. I love the internet cause where else can you find gems like that picture. But alas, once the telecoms have their way and kill <a href="http://tiny.cc/cmdzh">net neutrality</a> that love will end too, and we will only have access to the infotainment they want us to see.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZf1XrPCgdY5LSGkJNLKPUuf6ieKObT7HR4yLj5_hupkXRhUGv-0fpGoqc-DTnbdY_1YWJv4UFTsVyIU1tU7LPRZSJu2F3gI0MwTAWXdC1v65Hv6JFNS3hH5kxW0Knq0F9T4JNwciP7g7M/s1600/faceleaks.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZf1XrPCgdY5LSGkJNLKPUuf6ieKObT7HR4yLj5_hupkXRhUGv-0fpGoqc-DTnbdY_1YWJv4UFTsVyIU1tU7LPRZSJu2F3gI0MwTAWXdC1v65Hv6JFNS3hH5kxW0Knq0F9T4JNwciP7g7M/s320/faceleaks.jpg" width="184" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Everyone needs an escape for these times. For some it's drugs, and for others it's a belief in the afterlife. Me, I'll take barreling down the highway at undocumented speeds any day. Hey, if were lucky Jesus will show up on May 21st and pull the plug on this mess. I should have taken the blue pill. Oh well, time to check facebook.</div>Mike Jacobyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00962961240746869584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6402372698677278389.post-15606572222021682052011-02-04T14:36:00.000-05:002011-02-04T14:36:56.559-05:00Erik Buell Swag Contest<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ2x7WHCOKPZlhcgjctba5Ac7nkBqytdGPxYd8muGg0oHHAFyQyy2ZaNIlUdqlrLtw34gWHakoqWCDRkBCI1LQZ9mGgFJZiJyy1yNg1VsWCKzk4oBtVrRZNZJNU0j_48RAW0myENbtz2q3/s1600/ebr.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" h5="true" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ2x7WHCOKPZlhcgjctba5Ac7nkBqytdGPxYd8muGg0oHHAFyQyy2ZaNIlUdqlrLtw34gWHakoqWCDRkBCI1LQZ9mGgFJZiJyy1yNg1VsWCKzk4oBtVrRZNZJNU0j_48RAW0myENbtz2q3/s320/ebr.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div align="center" style="text-align: center;">Okay, Erik, where's my swag??</div>Mike Jacobyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00962961240746869584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6402372698677278389.post-13976021048105588212010-12-09T13:22:00.002-05:002010-12-09T17:28:09.638-05:00Looking to next Summer...Now that the weather here in Southeastern, PA is frigid I am looking forward to next summer. One of my summer rituals has been making a pilgrimage to the Smoky Mountains. Last summer I witnessed an unusual group of motorcycle enthusiast in the wild. The Quad Cam Bastards are Sportster aficionados, and their approach to their rides is minimalist in nature. Their disdain for the corporate culture of present day Harley Davidson is evident in the postings on their <a href="http://www.quadcambastards.blogspot.com/">blog</a>. I do agree with them that the motor-company has lost its way, but it is what it is, a public traded company.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMJp0OJafKFHO1j0RdMYUQ9ugqRrdqK14ih9iKWA7iUF69hbwVdFoMpPOyEmqxdsO6eVbZlZBsbkJHTSWIn5PpZfVZhpY_xz0EnuJTa3woJownpNG8vbigTzfSIGz47KjpxSB_81y0Z0bQ/s1600/QCB1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMJp0OJafKFHO1j0RdMYUQ9ugqRrdqK14ih9iKWA7iUF69hbwVdFoMpPOyEmqxdsO6eVbZlZBsbkJHTSWIn5PpZfVZhpY_xz0EnuJTa3woJownpNG8vbigTzfSIGz47KjpxSB_81y0Z0bQ/s320/QCB1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
At first glance most people would take these bastards to be elitists hipster bikers, but there is more to it than that. These guys actually wrench and fabricate their own rides.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsiR9kwjcd7emupC8bE6vMNgx2LuyXQFSndQqyzsr7Uwe5d5mJknMuBOpjqWLzZw2KAC_Z7WT7pe5tlxAoqf971m8uGCljjwBVpifm3Q2ACzViPRPfXDWlLrx4T1QcHnCMPNVTLWw_AbHI/s1600/QCB2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsiR9kwjcd7emupC8bE6vMNgx2LuyXQFSndQqyzsr7Uwe5d5mJknMuBOpjqWLzZw2KAC_Z7WT7pe5tlxAoqf971m8uGCljjwBVpifm3Q2ACzViPRPfXDWlLrx4T1QcHnCMPNVTLWw_AbHI/s320/QCB2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<div style="margin: 0px;">Unlike hipsters (and most bikers) who buy their their image at Goodwill or the Harley boutique, the Quad Cam Bastards are a grass roots collective of Harley riders who are dedicated to Sportsters because of the model's simplicity, power, and longevity. Sportsters have been in the Harley lineup since the early <a href="http://www.sportster.org/history/history-of-the-model-k/">1950s</a>. One could say, and I often do, that Sportsters are the only true Harley.</div><div style="margin: 0px;"><br />
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</div><div style="margin: 0px;">Their last bash was at the Tail of the Dragon (US 129) in Deals Gap, NC. I rode to the Tail of the Dragon to take advantage of the 11 miles of 318 curves and the Cherohala Skyway, but I also wanted to see what the QCB were like. However, after riding 50 miles in driving rain I arrived soaked and in a sour mood. My introverted tendencies were heightened by being waterlogged, so I observed the bastards from afar. Hey, medication can only do so much for this curmudgeon. But I did get some good pics and some vid. </div><div style="margin: 0px;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxGTH11K27pyRpxGrb3TkNIeyY0JEBniKiG7CqXnPzIFNz-dO4g2vleuINIX6nM1UvvpWjpzAYLeUmVKhaZ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div style="margin: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin: 0px;">This summer, the QCB gang will once again migrate to Deals Gap and the Tail of the Dragon. I will be there as well to enjoy the tremendous riding the Smoky Mountain area has to offer. Hopefully this time the rain will stay away.</div><div style="margin: 0px;"><br />
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</div>Mike Jacobyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00962961240746869584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6402372698677278389.post-8079477573043602432010-09-25T12:35:00.003-04:002010-09-26T12:23:58.299-04:00Delmarva Bike Week 2010So, once again I ventured down to Ocean City, MD, for the annual Delmarva Bike Week. To be honest it's more like a weekend with trailer queens. However, this year the scene was mobbed due to the excellent weather. Me and my friend, Jim Donnelly, agreed that one day is all that was needed. Here are some pics and videos.<br />
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Of course the best part was the Wall of Death. I think it's the main reason I go to this thing. This year they had a 1928 Indian Scout riding the wall! Most excellent my friends!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxx4n0JGo5z-3boD-JvutYh7c9_hxwogEmZ56ZK1QDsn1MiGSwRMeXNO41cyCKsfc8Lpn3mYm555LI6U-M3JQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Run on the 1928 Indian Scout</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Here are some bikes I found interesting...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEo1xk5JHPiQ_rDG51AlMbWH27Hm2PsmOqDgYXnoolm7Q9KFZTDWE8i3y3ESinLsynzNmGYJEO86jQ4ZoBAxnyGJPl6OirKnc1Re45MVKA0NGbTt1I4K020mEXupcNCznhH5anH7b_YUTz/s1600/DSC00330.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEo1xk5JHPiQ_rDG51AlMbWH27Hm2PsmOqDgYXnoolm7Q9KFZTDWE8i3y3ESinLsynzNmGYJEO86jQ4ZoBAxnyGJPl6OirKnc1Re45MVKA0NGbTt1I4K020mEXupcNCznhH5anH7b_YUTz/s320/DSC00330.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Not really practical but the color was awesome</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz5t8tTszuMwmGZY3SnyHfh1_Fb7YkcojnwK4a0ZdpIvGXXdaSNu7d_1eFWUvIC4QI2yU_XBP1X2qjNrQuYwAf8G6vJM8YznnFkbVLs7SVUhEtLcrefd3atCbqldVMzYlfte7BNFPz18l1/s1600/DSC00331.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz5t8tTszuMwmGZY3SnyHfh1_Fb7YkcojnwK4a0ZdpIvGXXdaSNu7d_1eFWUvIC4QI2yU_XBP1X2qjNrQuYwAf8G6vJM8YznnFkbVLs7SVUhEtLcrefd3atCbqldVMzYlfte7BNFPz18l1/s320/DSC00331.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Using the frame for an oil tank from Redneck Engineering</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJoMOMUdTpwmoQaY9OqihkUCJ2jTma7HJcQc5J2Mj6BRXfg5xr0beIZ2_7JW7NkxNSyBiNvCYMHVv7M1fLMwsaG0lot0NpD97cwqmpgyDiBeG3QwRsXM_xbSnNmBXY2hGI0Cafhemy9eD0/s1600/DSC00332.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJoMOMUdTpwmoQaY9OqihkUCJ2jTma7HJcQc5J2Mj6BRXfg5xr0beIZ2_7JW7NkxNSyBiNvCYMHVv7M1fLMwsaG0lot0NpD97cwqmpgyDiBeG3QwRsXM_xbSnNmBXY2hGI0Cafhemy9eD0/s320/DSC00332.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">My favorite</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibUDiw6I60xHN3GCpSHyqKqtdKcXB65J10g1jNj9lM6AsXnr1FBHX9NTRMGbCtFzIDMSScL9_4QYKFI5FRJqVgpuPo65XXeMOdXnC_5mZWE_gEweZUFl3N-LtsTPyrJOOd7A0I3IbDDzPV/s1600/DSC00334.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibUDiw6I60xHN3GCpSHyqKqtdKcXB65J10g1jNj9lM6AsXnr1FBHX9NTRMGbCtFzIDMSScL9_4QYKFI5FRJqVgpuPo65XXeMOdXnC_5mZWE_gEweZUFl3N-LtsTPyrJOOd7A0I3IbDDzPV/s320/DSC00334.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Adam would have really torn up the neighborhood on one of these (XR750)</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">All in all it was a good time, but really, how many doo-rag vendors can you endure?</div>Mike Jacobyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00962961240746869584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6402372698677278389.post-69862449105494232992010-09-09T08:59:00.001-04:002010-09-09T08:59:37.980-04:00This I believe...<div class="MsoNormal">I spend a lot of time and mental effort grappling with my spiritual life. The ongoing war in my head consumes me. I am torn. Raised a Jew and now a Christian, I have not been able to shake or cement my faith. Perhaps it is not meant to be, and I will always question everything pertaining to a belief in “G-D.” So, am I losing my faith altogether, or am I shedding the supernatural aspects? If the supernatural is removed what’s left to believe in. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Where does this stance of un-supernatural faith fall in regards to my belief in Christ? Belief in something does not necessarily mean an association with the supernatural. Can one follow Christ’s example alone and be a Christian? Love, charity, and service to others should be enough, right? Must I be a “literal” believer of the bible? I don’t think so. I am not delusional. Skeptical, yes as should anyone who hears the fantastic stories of the bible. But are there logical explanations to all those fantastic stories? Does it really matter? Can I be faithful without the trappings of religion? </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">What matters is how we treat each other. Our connection to each other will lead us to understanding why we are here and our place in the universe. One thing that continues to elude us is the ability to coexist. If race, ethnicity, and socio-economic status didn’t already push us apart, “religion” drives the wedge between us even further. Even those who don’t hold any spiritual beliefs are guilty of the same derision. So, is there any possibility of unity with such diversity in this world? Historically it hasn’t happened with any long term success which leads me to believe it is impossible. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">My dilemma is when religious fanatics rear their ugly heads and do ugly things in the name of G-D. News-feeds from around the globe never fail to show some medieval display of religion going on somewhere. This Saturday a church in Florida will burn copies of the Koran in the name of Christ. Yup, I’m embarrassed. Not for them, but for me. I am embarrassed because of the beliefs that I do have. I don’t want to be associated with the zealots and charlatans proclaiming their twisted views of G-D, but we all get lumped together and it’s not fair. But still I participate in some way because my faith keeps me hooked into a community that feels foreign.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">I feel like I’m in a no win situation. Is this how it’s supposed to be?</div>Mike Jacobyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00962961240746869584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6402372698677278389.post-37578575055354152062010-09-07T11:00:00.004-04:002010-09-07T19:25:43.327-04:00Tea Baggers: spoiled little children refusing to grow up.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtiQAfjkGsfC9LU0lcfzjZrT55CVBtSecHoltyCFsFaIOAKM91Lyi3VdofpH4UxHUcHxU4t0dKsG7IUNan49rBw4Jf4MuyMdXydd07op0UF5ufZAZDDeZ6lm57fMFTr2dSlCJfGddoBILc/s1600/teabag.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtiQAfjkGsfC9LU0lcfzjZrT55CVBtSecHoltyCFsFaIOAKM91Lyi3VdofpH4UxHUcHxU4t0dKsG7IUNan49rBw4Jf4MuyMdXydd07op0UF5ufZAZDDeZ6lm57fMFTr2dSlCJfGddoBILc/s200/teabag.jpg" width="200" /></a></div></meta><meta content="Word.Document" name="ProgId"></meta><meta content="Microsoft Word 10" name="Generator"></meta><meta content="Microsoft Word 10" name="Originator"></meta><link href="file:///C:%5CDOCUME%7E1%5CMIKEJA%7E1%5CLOCALS%7E1%5CTemp%5Cmsohtml1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml" rel="File-List"></link><smarttagtype name="place" namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags"></smarttagtype><smarttagtype name="country-region" namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags"></smarttagtype><smarttagtype name="City" namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags"></smarttagtype><smarttagtype name="State" namespaceuri="urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags"></smarttagtype><style>
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<div class="MsoNormal">By now we should all know something about the “Tea Baggers” and their spoke-persons Sarah Palin and Glenn Beck. So, what has these people’s knickers in a twist?</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Out of control government spending? </div><div class="MsoNormal">Universal healthcare? </div><div class="MsoNormal">Immigration? </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Perhaps, but I doubt it, I mean where have they been for the past decade(s)? All of a sudden an African American becomes President of the <country-region><place>United States</place></country-region> and in one year the country has plunged into hell. Really?</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Take note! Tea Baggers are having an effect on the political spectrum.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">So, let us look at this movement on the local level. Here in <place><city>Avondale</city>, <state>Pennsylvania</state></place>, lawn signs have been popping up calling everyone’s attention to an out-of-control government. I guess they just figured it out. Well, the signs have a web address at the bottom <b>AdvanceFreedom.org</b>. Nice ring to it, who doesn’t want to advance freedom and the .org domain extension adds a grass roots earthy kind of feel. However, these baggers intent is not warm and fuzzy. Sinister? Okay, sinister might be over reaching, but their ideology is a throw back to the 1800s.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Issues these tea-baggers are complaining about were created by them for the most part. Deregulation of the banking sector has produced the financial crisis this country is in now. When George W. Bush first bailed out the failing investment houses on Wall Street the Tea Party Patriots were nowhere to be found. Why? Well, he’s was a Republican. Let’s not forget that this is a Conservative Republican movement even though they claim a non-partisan atmosphere. Republicans had been in control of the house and senate for over a decade, so the sleeping giant had no reason to wake up, because it was too busy raping the county’s coffers.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Now it’s all the Obama Administration’s fault? Granted I’m not overly impressed with Obama’s work so far, but look what he inherited, and I’m not impressed with politicians on either side of the aisle anyway. I would whole heartedly join with these so called patriots if their intensions were true, however, from what I can see… So, what can be gleaned from <b>AdvanceFreedom.org</b> is a lot of empty rhetoric based on the decades old <i>5000 Year Leap</i> by Cleon Skousen. Not exactly a fair and balanced look at the Constitution or American History. Well, if you are white and wealthy you probably subscribe to this take on <country-region><place>U.S.</place></country-region> history.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">At a recent gathering Tea Bagger gathering in <place><city>Washington</city>, <state>D.C.</state></place>, Mr. Beck called for a return to GOD. I wonder whose GOD he would be referring. The rhetoric of coming back to GOD and traditional values of our founding fathers is perplexing to me. Should we bring back slavery, take away women’s right to vote? What values are they harping about?? In a nutshell I observe these so called “patriots” to be over indulged baby-boomers who are upset that they are not getting their way anymore. They’ve blown their inheritance and have to pay the piper, and don’t like it. </div>Mike Jacobyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00962961240746869584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6402372698677278389.post-46025399559263624102010-03-07T08:04:00.000-05:002010-03-07T08:04:34.175-05:00With the arrival of spring...Now that riding season is here....think!!!<br />
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<object height="340" width="560"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/zl7KoeVIh-k&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0&color1=0x3a3a3a&color2=0x999999"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/zl7KoeVIh-k&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0&color1=0x3a3a3a&color2=0x999999" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="560" height="340"></embed></object><br />
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and think....<br />
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<object height="340" width="560"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/AKqZfbH8WNU&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0&color1=0x3a3a3a&color2=0x999999"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/AKqZfbH8WNU&hl=en_US&fs=1&rel=0&color1=0x3a3a3a&color2=0x999999" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="560" height="340"></embed></object><br />
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and THINK!!!<br />
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That includes us riders too!Mike Jacobyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00962961240746869584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6402372698677278389.post-27956805511061807562010-01-23T20:31:00.001-05:002010-01-25T21:33:26.525-05:00That's it for the other one...shoe that isWe have been sold out to the corporations under the guise of free speech. Earlier this week a Supreme Court decision to not allow the limiting of corporate donations to political campaigns has weakend this country far worse than any other action against the American people. Now the circle is complete. The picture below sums it up.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO5PsxNZGW2r-UlkKtusyEunGqzcH1Ers8uZBcIJNx7AjQD4LdCSvDCGpICX6AsDrNLHD2ej-dwFYOg_FN9spup5AOut8cxcUe4eztdPNeKItC5CbWJsySTCIJVhy6JdDntHTKnEPbtONs/s1600-h/newcapitalistpyramidnt1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" mt="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO5PsxNZGW2r-UlkKtusyEunGqzcH1Ers8uZBcIJNx7AjQD4LdCSvDCGpICX6AsDrNLHD2ej-dwFYOg_FN9spup5AOut8cxcUe4eztdPNeKItC5CbWJsySTCIJVhy6JdDntHTKnEPbtONs/s320/newcapitalistpyramidnt1.jpg" width="181" /></a><br />
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</div>Mike Jacobyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00962961240746869584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6402372698677278389.post-50580259634200354092009-10-25T08:16:00.001-04:002009-10-25T08:20:00.236-04:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8DYbqIt15YoZgBU9eYCwn9yBua15I-1MbOaAIyY7gPwXpPIzrYIUJlGuzK7EqzcPsfdqw0x_Tk7T0zoGlamADc6tdmly9hAjgBXBBWjn9WhGOnkmduuzVzxvsrcf4bho9xnoJZFG2yZET/s1600-h/ja09$019.jpg"><img style="text-align: justify;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8DYbqIt15YoZgBU9eYCwn9yBua15I-1MbOaAIyY7gPwXpPIzrYIUJlGuzK7EqzcPsfdqw0x_Tk7T0zoGlamADc6tdmly9hAjgBXBBWjn9WhGOnkmduuzVzxvsrcf4bho9xnoJZFG2yZET/s400/ja09$019.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5396510655324660018" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><b>Adam J. Chitjian</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><b>8/30/1968 - 10/25/2007</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:georgia;"><b>Forever in our hearts!</b></span></div>Mike Jacobyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00962961240746869584noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6402372698677278389.post-14245116049179544482009-10-18T08:33:00.003-04:002009-10-18T09:44:39.750-04:00The State of Harley-DavidsonA lot of discussion this week in the motorcycle community has centered around the shuttering of Buell. Buell, a subsidiary of HD, has produced some of the most innovative designs around the Sportster type engine. While the debate continues here are two links that provide insight into the problem.<div><br /></div><div><a href="http://hellforleathermagazine.com/2009/10/harley-didnt-calculate-savings.html">http://hellforleathermagazine.com/2009/10/harley-didnt-calculate-savings.html</a></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://quadcambastards.blogspot.com/2009/10/so-beancounting-execs-at-moco.html">http://quadcambastards.blogspot.com/2009/10/so-beancounting-execs-at-moco.html</a></div><div><br /></div><div>I think this view that HD has lost its way is shared by a lot of riders. Personally, I think it's a microcosm of what is affecting the United States today.</div>Mike Jacobyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00962961240746869584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6402372698677278389.post-67337713589764399382009-10-11T21:20:00.005-04:002009-10-30T17:45:42.480-04:00Wall of Death!!!!The best 5 bucks I've ever spent. Saw this at Delmarva bike week this year. Enjoy!<br />
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</div><div>The Grand Finale!<br />
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</div><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxz3-kYUCqWYCuBtoD6ISZqdP1EAwcXDg8Ni9I_3YN1lB4d6QkwxJIM5u8hDDsTRsiluRg8iZ9m61vQ3Eyd-A' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe>Mike Jacobyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00962961240746869584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6402372698677278389.post-21972917172634961022009-10-03T08:16:00.003-04:002009-10-12T14:27:15.644-04:00So, who’s really being noisy???<p class="MsoNormal">The debate about motorcycles and noise they generate has been long existent. Now, I believe, the issue around noise is coming to a head. I recently received an email about the AMA’s proposed legislature regarding noise from all combustion engines. The AMA’s actions are explained by Imre Szauter, AMA government affairs manager;</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:.5in;margin-bottom:0in; margin-left:.5in;margin-bottom:.0001pt">"Many cities and other jurisdictions already have excessive sound laws on the books, but when they get citizen complaints about loud motorcycles, they sometimes decide to single out the riding public with unfair or overly restrictive ordinances and laws," said Imre Szauter, AMA government affairs manager. "We believe that motorcycles shouldn't be singled out, but should be regulated as part of a comprehensive sound management policy that also addresses cars, trucks, leaf blowers, generators and other sources of excessive sound."<br /><br />The J2825 standard, issued by the SAE in May, is based on a comprehensive study of a wide variety of on-highway motorcycles. It establishes instrumentation, test site, test conditions, procedures, measurements and sound level limits.<br /><br />"Too many times, jurisdictions responding to citizen complaints about excessive motorcycle sound create laws that simply don't work in the real world," Szauter said. "They either set an unreasonable decibel limit, leave it up to a police officer to subjectively decide whether a bike is too noisy, or come up with another plan that is arbitrary or unworkable. Our model legislation is objective, workable and fair."<a style="mso-footnote-id:ftn1" href="file:///C:/Documents%20and%20Settings/Mike%20Jacoby/My%20Documents/Blog/mcnoise.doc#_ftn1" name="_ftnref1" title=""><span class="MsoFootnoteReference"><span style="mso-special-character:footnote"><span class="MsoFootnoteReference"><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-Times New Roman";mso-ansi-language:EN-US;mso-fareast-language: EN-US;mso-bidi-language:AR-SAfont-family:";font-size:12.0pt;">[1]</span></span></span></span></a></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-top:0in;margin-right:.5in;margin-bottom:0in; margin-left:.5in;margin-bottom:.0001pt"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">What is the J2825 SAE standard? Well, the article said the standard goes like this, “Under the SAE J2825 standard, decibel limits range from 92 dBA at idle for all motorcycles, to up to 100 dBA at certain RPMs for various motorcycles, depending on the type of engine.”<a style="mso-footnote-id: ftn2" href="file:///C:/Documents%20and%20Settings/Mike%20Jacoby/My%20Documents/Blog/mcnoise.doc#_ftn2" name="_ftnref2" title=""><span class="MsoFootnoteReference"><span style="mso-special-character:footnote"><span class="MsoFootnoteReference"><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-Times New Roman";mso-ansi-language:EN-US;mso-fareast-language: EN-US;mso-bidi-language:AR-SAfont-family:";font-size:12.0pt;">[2]</span></span></span></span></a> Personally I have Vance and Hines Straightshot slip-on mufflers on my sporty. They produce a lot of “sound,” but fall well within <st1:state><st1:place>Pennsylvania</st1:place></st1:state>’s limits. These limits are found in the vehicle code, “Pennsylvania Administrative Code Title 67, Part I, Subpart A, Article VII, Chapter 157, Subchapter B, Section 157.11, Paragraph a: Max A-weighted sound levels as measured at 50 feet: 84dBA at 35 mph or less; 88dBA above 35mph.”<a style="mso-footnote-id: ftn3" href="file:///C:/Documents%20and%20Settings/Mike%20Jacoby/My%20Documents/Blog/mcnoise.doc#_ftn3" name="_ftnref3" title=""><span class="MsoFootnoteReference"><span style="mso-special-character:footnote"><span class="MsoFootnoteReference"><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-Times New Roman";mso-ansi-language:EN-US;mso-fareast-language: EN-US;mso-bidi-language:AR-SAfont-family:";font-size:12.0pt;">[3]</span></span></span></span></a></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">So, does anyone really know how the two measure up? Will the AMA’s suggestion be adopted? I believe this issue lies in the upswing in motorcycle riders during the past couple of decades. <span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>I do believe that some exhausts (straight pipes) do emit an excessive amount of noise, and the more recent cadre of riders think it’s their right to do so. I believe that a certain amount of loudness does help with being visible to others, but there is a limit. Most of the take home choppers (bar bikes) have ridiculous noise issues, and their riders have “look at me, look at me!” issues which complicate matters. I also believe that those who complain are a minority of folks who have nothing better to do, but since they complain to the right people the complaints are acted on. With that said, if you do ride it’s a good idea to join either ABATE, my choice, or the AMA. These groups provide a collective voice where it matters most. I guess you can say I’m noisy whether on or off my motorcycle.</p> <div style="mso-element:footnote-list"><br /><hr align="left" size="1" width="33%"> <div style="mso-element:footnote" id="ftn1"> <p class="MsoFootnoteText" style="margin-left:.5in;text-indent:-.5in"><a style="mso-footnote-id:ftn1" href="file:///C:/Documents%20and%20Settings/Mike%20Jacoby/My%20Documents/Blog/mcnoise.doc#_ftnref1" name="_ftn1" title=""><span class="MsoFootnoteReference"><span style="mso-special-character:footnote"><span class="MsoFootnoteReference"><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-Times New Roman";mso-ansi-language:EN-US;mso-fareast-language: EN-US;mso-bidi-language:AR-SAfont-family:";font-size:10.0pt;">[1]</span></span></span></span></a> <a href="http://www.whowon.com/sresults.asp?SanctionID=186&StoryID=279336">http://www.whowon.com/sresults.asp?SanctionID=186&StoryID=279336</a> (Accessed on <st1:date year="2009" day="1" month="10">October 1<sup>st</sup>, 2009</st1:date>.)</p> </div> <div style="mso-element:footnote" id="ftn2"> <p class="MsoFootnoteText"><a style="mso-footnote-id:ftn2" href="file:///C:/Documents%20and%20Settings/Mike%20Jacoby/My%20Documents/Blog/mcnoise.doc#_ftnref2" name="_ftn2" title=""><span class="MsoFootnoteReference"><span style="mso-special-character: footnote"><span class="MsoFootnoteReference"><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman";mso-fareast-Times New Roman";mso-ansi-language:EN-US;mso-fareast-language:EN-US; mso-bidi-language:AR-SAfont-family:";font-size:10.0pt;">[2]</span></span></span></span></a> Ibid.</p> </div> <div style="mso-element:footnote" id="ftn3"> <p class="MsoFootnoteText"><a style="mso-footnote-id:ftn3" href="file:///C:/Documents%20and%20Settings/Mike%20Jacoby/My%20Documents/Blog/mcnoise.doc#_ftnref3" name="_ftn3" title=""><span class="MsoFootnoteReference"><span style="mso-special-character: footnote"><span class="MsoFootnoteReference"><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman";mso-fareast-Times New Roman";mso-ansi-language:EN-US;mso-fareast-language:EN-US; mso-bidi-language:AR-SAfont-family:";font-size:10.0pt;">[3]</span></span></span></span></a> <a href="http://home.ama-cycle.org/amaccess/laws/result.asp?state=PA">http://home.ama-cycle.org/amaccess/laws/result.asp?state=PA</a> (Accessed on <st1:date year="2009" day="1" month="10">October 1<sup>st</sup>, 2009</st1:date>.)</p> </div></div>Mike Jacobyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00962961240746869584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6402372698677278389.post-10109138911566429802009-09-11T15:10:00.002-04:002009-09-11T15:12:32.159-04:00A day of rememberance...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK_MYMGDkjwHKy6_33Kar8P3WgXna0Cr6Mv5V9LDRrfpAB1XykgfGTXBlkua2tZ_Ljjqb_UkEHTx54GXzx5fvXKjzLwu0ezYk4EQkBawqZPMsmioy6_0eV89DliIwyVeKltddT8hOhjRA1/s1600-h/israel911FDNYflagraise.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 278px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK_MYMGDkjwHKy6_33Kar8P3WgXna0Cr6Mv5V9LDRrfpAB1XykgfGTXBlkua2tZ_Ljjqb_UkEHTx54GXzx5fvXKjzLwu0ezYk4EQkBawqZPMsmioy6_0eV89DliIwyVeKltddT8hOhjRA1/s320/israel911FDNYflagraise.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5380289744810414562" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Let us all take some time out today to remember what happened 8 years ago.</div>Mike Jacobyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00962961240746869584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6402372698677278389.post-122592408747917482009-09-02T20:18:00.014-04:002009-09-05T13:47:32.414-04:00My Summer Vacation @ Disney<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKufNG1-tCHDdjPo3uZvbrPbfuZvtrNj7hMBeqUOvhJcuG4t-8U87TtikAZV3JOzZvpFJWNqSiOspFuxUDP4eZdeuT6uPSjfB6fYonnWluXMY1ORD7kMJdXiPwsoKMq6Qp1ook2lIN_Xe8/s1600-h/markets.gif"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5377029389742115234" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 248px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKufNG1-tCHDdjPo3uZvbrPbfuZvtrNj7hMBeqUOvhJcuG4t-8U87TtikAZV3JOzZvpFJWNqSiOspFuxUDP4eZdeuT6uPSjfB6fYonnWluXMY1ORD7kMJdXiPwsoKMq6Qp1ook2lIN_Xe8/s320/markets.gif" border="0" /></a><br /><p class="MsoNormal">I was in the Tragic (Euro) Kingdom last week and I'm feeling a little guilty right now. The reason I say Tragic (Euro) Kingdom is most of <?xml:namespace prefix = st1 /><st1:place>Western Europe</st1:place> was there with us. I thought Europeans hated us culturally deprived Americans with our McDonalds and NASCAR. I guess with Disney all bets are off. I mean there were French people…lots of French people. <st1:country-region><st1:place>Britain</st1:place></st1:country-region>, <st1:country-region><st1:place>Germany</st1:place></st1:country-region>, and some Slavic nations too were in the house of mouse. Not that I mind foreigners, it’s just ironic they would come all this way to pay homage to the Mecca of Capitalism for which we are hated! But let’s face it; Disney World is perfect for Western Europeans because it’s so Hegelian it’s ridiculous.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><?xml:namespace prefix = o /><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">I mean look at EPCOT and it is plain to see. All the countries represented are European except for <st1:country-region><st1:place>Japan</st1:place></st1:country-region> (we love their technology), <st1:country-region><st1:place>China</st1:place></st1:country-region> (Chinese food and everything is made there, duh!), and <st1:country-region><st1:place>Mexico</st1:place></st1:country-region> (where else could you get Margaritas and salsa). Hell, <st1:country-region><st1:place>Canada</st1:place></st1:country-region> is represented…they’re either French or British! Some diversity! Well, <st1:place>Africa</st1:place> does have its own park practically. Disney’s Animal Kingdom has <st1:place>Africa</st1:place>. Here the buildings are crumbling with frayed electrical wires running everywhere. The atmosphere was pretty realistic to the state of things in <st1:place>Africa</st1:place> today. All was needed were some toddlers with AK-47’s to complete the picture. Dire as it was at least it wasn’t portrayed like in the <st1:place><st1:placename>Magic</st1:placename> <st1:placetype>Kingdom</st1:placetype></st1:place> itself with the drums and cannibalistic savages. Let’s face it Disney loved the Victorian era where white was right, the West was Wild, and the African continent was dark as ever. I don’t know where the Jews fit in, because they are totally non-existent. Now with that rant aside let’s start another one.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg4dZ8sVmAQB4X6v-KwXsjJuE4rdXG5TvfUJK7uu7sWNnM0BcQ7w5Tgpp8Esfw4xK4WBxT-zzea76SqtvjRHRcSFQxbGkwXy8ijre7BWQsxdeX3TltM3K-ZVrW2CXi8g1mtsyv-Qb-edS9/s1600-h/DSC00039.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5377031398985105650" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 240px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg4dZ8sVmAQB4X6v-KwXsjJuE4rdXG5TvfUJK7uu7sWNnM0BcQ7w5Tgpp8Esfw4xK4WBxT-zzea76SqtvjRHRcSFQxbGkwXy8ijre7BWQsxdeX3TltM3K-ZVrW2CXi8g1mtsyv-Qb-edS9/s320/DSC00039.JPG" border="0" /></a> <div style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="WHITE-SPACE: pre"></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:x-small;">Mmmmm, when in India sample the authentic fare!</span><br /></div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="WHITE-SPACE: pre"></span></div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: justify"><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="WHITE-SPACE: pre"></span>My love for Disney begins with the all encompassing access card. If my tinfoil hat wasn’t being repaired I would swear that WDW was the testing ground for the national ID. Once issued, this card gives you access to food, entrance to all the parks, and is linked to your credit card so you buy anything with it as well. Damn, it even has biometrics linked to it. When entering any of the parks you need to submit a fingerprint. Now YOU are attached to this card and only YOU can use it. To prove it I tried using my index finger on my left hand one day and was rejected. I had to use the same finger on my right hand (GASP!).</div><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">That aside, I enjoyed myself thoroughly. The staff was friendly. Every one of the 60,000 employees was pleasant, no kidding. It was paradise. I want to move there and claim asylum. I mean it! While I was scrubbing dishes today I thought to myself, “I wish I was at Disney.” I feel like I have been sprung from some reeducation camp. The world is not supposed to be like this. It is supposed to be like Disney World! We have already booked next summer’s vacation there (sigh). Yipeee!!!!!!</p>Mike Jacobyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00962961240746869584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6402372698677278389.post-62898735397345703742008-12-29T10:36:00.005-05:002008-12-30T07:17:06.760-05:00O Brother, Where Art Thou?What can I do? I am watching again as Israel goes on the offensive against <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Hamas</span>. I want to understand why Israel believes that packing a people in to a small territory and cutting off aid and the basic necessities of life (water, electricity, the ability to move) would not incite rebellion? Have we forgotten our experience in the ghetto of Warsaw, Poland? Did we forget how the Jews fought with every inch of their life a losing battle but still fought bravely against the Nazis? Perhaps, this current situation is what Israeli leaders have been waiting for. A chance to finally remove any resistance or <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">existence</span> of the Palestinian population in Gaza. But why?<div><br /></div><div>Okay, I know the history of the region, but doesn't our history teach us this is a losing battle? This continued aggression, despite the fact that rockets and suicide bombers constantly <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">plague</span> Israel, only elevates the Palestinian status to freedom fighters struggling against a colonial <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">aggressor</span>. Which is really the truth at this point, because if we changed the names for example <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Palestinian</span> to Algerian and Israeli to French, we would understand the outcome. When one marginalized group is backed up against the wall their odds at liberation increases 100 fold. Doesn't Israel understand this? Israel lost the battle before it began. Even if Israel drives the population of Gaza into the sea, Israel will lose any security it ever wished to gain, because the Palestinian cause has become the rallying point for all Arab and Islamic fanatical hatred towards Israel. Of course not one of <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Palestine's</span> neighbors cared about them before the creation of the State of Israel, but now that doesn't matter.</div><div><br /></div><div>O, Israel! Look at what you have become! Has the struggle rendered your hearts incapable of mercy and compassion? Will the G-D of Abraham forsake the children of Ishmael and not deliver them when they cry out? What can I do? I still love you and stand by you. But I fear what the future holds for you. </div>Mike Jacobyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00962961240746869584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6402372698677278389.post-73104890992357145302008-12-16T12:33:00.017-05:002008-12-20T20:04:15.920-05:00Born Again Biker and the Good Samaratin or What Does Riding a Harley Really Mean?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSZo6OjxQ4cti9RXuyyWxOUlE5oBA9VxB9r3G9cySMGmjh6cSr9aGWelNV64QGfo0OBvQhUDfMC1scjjLmw1hIvD_ampw1TAGs5YiSXP4xnSMZN4RV32eBsozUYALQvFzpW54dGEMmOsBN/s1600-h/biker-jesus.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 202px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSZo6OjxQ4cti9RXuyyWxOUlE5oBA9VxB9r3G9cySMGmjh6cSr9aGWelNV64QGfo0OBvQhUDfMC1scjjLmw1hIvD_ampw1TAGs5YiSXP4xnSMZN4RV32eBsozUYALQvFzpW54dGEMmOsBN/s320/biker-jesus.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5281884237717709794" border="0" /></a><br />All I could do was swear and brace myself as the bike squarely hit the pothole. I thought only Philly had potholes capable of disabling your vehicle. But alas! I found one and hit it. At first I thought my front tire would blow and possibly bend the wheel itself. I got lucky, or so I thought, and rolled right into the gas station. It wasn't until I finished filling up that I realized the bike would not start.<div><br /></div><div>See, I got this bike, a 05 Harley 883R, from a friend. Basically, he thought I was too domesticated and gave his wife specific instructions that if he died in Iraq to give me the bike. We used to ride together, dirt bikes mostly, and hung out in my parent's garage doing mischievous things. The place became a local hangout with its cast of characters. We would sit around our bikes and tinker. Upset the neighbors with all the noise and other shenanigans. Twenty years had passed and now I'm rediscovering a passion that was dormant for too long.<br /><br />My love for riding began when I was fifteen. I was working in a machine shop in Huntingdon Valley, my friend told the owner that I was 18, and I fell in with the older guys at the shop. They introduced me to the world of motorcycles. My first bike was a 1976 Kawasaki KZ 400 bought for $350. It was 1985 and that Summer I learned to ride. What I really learned was the camaraderie shared amongst other motorcyclists. The dropped left hand when you passed another motorcyclist signaled you were apart of something bigger. You stopped and help other motorcyclists when they were in trouble. So, standing there with my broken down bike at the Sunoco on Rte. 10 near Oxford, PA, I began to consider my options. In come two riders, one on a Harley FLHX, and another on a Honda Shadow. They came into the station from different directions, pulled up to different pumps and began filling their tanks. Both riders noticed me looking over my bike trying to get it started. I even tried to bump start the bike in the presence of both riders. The rider on the Harley bagger drives off not even considering helping me. Bye, thanks for nothing. The Honda rider pulls up next to me and says, "Having trouble?" Together, we systematically figure out that the ignition module came loose. Once the module was firmly seated the bike started. Afterwards, we talked about riding, I thanked Mike (What are the odds of having the same name?), and went our separate ways.<br /><br />This incident really compromised my attitude towards Harley riders. Not the bike mind you just the people who ride them, and I know this does not apply to everyone, but I was riding a Harley at the time and was dissed by another Harley rider! WTF!!! Where's the brotherhood? Maybe, Harley dealers should hand out a little pamphlet, that I'm willing to write, instructing these noobs on how to be a real biker. Perhaps Harley's effort to sell more bikes has in effect brought the wrong element to the scene. Go into any Harley dealer and you'll find that most of there clothing (except the dealer t-shirts which are made in the U.S.) and some of the parts are made in China and elsewhere. Harley has perfected the illusion of the American biker and packaged it in a nice overpriced corporate bow. I mean really how much of a bad ass biker can you be wearing Harley jeans made in China? Guess I missed the real Harley motorcycle scene by 20 years. Oh, well. I'm still going to ride my Harley to honor my friend, but not buy into the hype.<br /><br /><br /><div><br /></div></div>Mike Jacobyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00962961240746869584noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6402372698677278389.post-53523536681917780692008-11-13T10:20:00.003-05:002008-11-13T10:41:18.736-05:00Obamarama<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsNCIpfjEmRzhWooHiRrkwVO4ANrA_FxDt3v1wbM-lEzG-u_UTri4K7z78MrrARXa373N7k19epur3XyHrs46Yh_lMRzZmdEnuv2WXe7MJstAfZNDiGELKdrfn2TetG7K6NxfDIN935az-/s1600-h/capitol.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 212px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsNCIpfjEmRzhWooHiRrkwVO4ANrA_FxDt3v1wbM-lEzG-u_UTri4K7z78MrrARXa373N7k19epur3XyHrs46Yh_lMRzZmdEnuv2WXe7MJstAfZNDiGELKdrfn2TetG7K6NxfDIN935az-/s320/capitol.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5268167334940852594" /></a><br />So, the election is over and a regime change is coming. Democrats won big but will this produce results needed to heal the country? Hmmm...I'm hopeful but my pessimistic view of American politics has been nurtured by years witnessing high jinks on the hill. President-Elect Obama is definitely a step in the right direction after years of Republican anti-intellectualism. My main concern now is how Obama is going to work with Pelosi and Reid? One would ask "What's the problem they're both Democrats?" That's my point. Democrats have not shown the ability to walk lock-step like Republicans, and this could lead to infighting amongst Democrats who all have their own agendas. Let's face it, a politician is a politician, and they all have an agenda. But in this time of uncertainty in the U.S., we need unity. With that said I hope Obama's message of change prevails.Mike Jacobyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00962961240746869584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6402372698677278389.post-60093898862418354982008-06-23T20:16:00.008-04:002008-07-21T08:16:57.870-04:00Hello Kitty <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfb47rayA2JYkxEZcECjkeBOXjBiZMhnNxfLHjhPy6M85SaFvaBJntcxuQoIVvLep-8ZjE-o84q0ptBkInmRTjFiYRfXuEDDZKTLd87XA1SNjs1HKF3vlYbopSf6ec0lRqqTnHlHFRUXX_/s1600-h/catbang.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfb47rayA2JYkxEZcECjkeBOXjBiZMhnNxfLHjhPy6M85SaFvaBJntcxuQoIVvLep-8ZjE-o84q0ptBkInmRTjFiYRfXuEDDZKTLd87XA1SNjs1HKF3vlYbopSf6ec0lRqqTnHlHFRUXX_/s320/catbang.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5215254210287988162" border="0" /></a><meta equiv="CONTENT-TYPE" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"> <title></title> <meta name="GENERATOR" content="OpenOffice.org 2.4 (Linux)"> <style type="text/css"> <!-- @page { size: 8.5in 11in; margin: 0.79in } P { margin-bottom: 0.08in } --> </style> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">I have always been allergic to cats. My reaction to their dander sends my to the hospital for an adrenaline shot in the bum. Problem is...cats love to come up to me and rub themselves all over me. Like they know they have the power to destroy me. Little assassins!</p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Every girl I have dated has been a cat lover. My wife loves cats and when we were dating had one. Somehow she chose me over the cat, but I wonder sometimes if she thinks she made the wrong choice? Anyway, the past two days a gray cat has camped outside our house. It is a gray male, and is very friendly. Of course, my wife thinks its lovely. I do not. Well, actually I do but will not admit it. Yes, our mouse issues would be nil, and my son would finally have the pet he always wanted if I decided to adopt it and bring it inside. However, this would mean living the rest of my life wearing a bio-hazard spacesuit. For now the cat is fine just where it is, outside. </p> Mike Jacobyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00962961240746869584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6402372698677278389.post-4011817251892459142007-11-18T17:28:00.001-05:002008-03-14T22:06:00.087-04:00Wrapped in the flag?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjynsSyDZpqqpnKFPuopwhwuDhoZVCsbplFDrQfHKXOBDel7v_ovF-ZHWH4JIvIqWeFHm09a5OVdPcG2D1YpCopItx09SKsmtlbixLn522w-JngtCdqhJReteFjBdv0I3g-8f7dZbCE-bUg/s1600-r/flag.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLE_jT2xq1mM7JAHWiloueUKjUuwTcGHFCr7AFgWlO1Okvbu46phTHaaQ2LwRQdCqOp3tSlPWqvQmVUC6vEVDdlOMsl37tWwy-smNANN61WIg1rDs_1s2zmpPdebs-uMjqz7RbMHFjDY7T/s320/flag.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5139947089811458418" border="0" /></a><br />Everyone goes through changes during his or her lifetime. Sometimes there is an event that facilitates that change. I am no different. Until recent I would not have considered myself a "flag waver," and I still don't. Recently I have put up the Stars and Stripes on my house. My wife has graciously entertained my desire to fly a flag. So, what is the big deal about flying a flag? I mean we are Americans, right? Well, flying a U.S. flag today labels you to be some right-wing fascist, but I disagree.<br /><br />As a child I always looked to the flag with reverence and awe. The flag represented a promise of freedom and equality. Also, the flag gave us an identity that instilled pride. Unfortunately, childhood ideals fall hard to adult realities, and the truth about the U.S. of A is at times less than savory and downright atrocious. But besides all of its faults my "country" has the potential to live up to those ideals I was taught as a child.<br /><br />After 9/11 people across the nation became wrapped in the flag for many reasons. I resisted the urge to jump the band wagon, because the mentality behind this surge hinged on mass hysteria and hate. I call this type of mentality "Fox News Mentality." In the days that followed 9/11 anyone not agreeing with the Bush Administrations policies was labeled an America hating liberal. Many conservative pundits capitalized on this narrow definition patriotism by chanting the love it or leave it mantra and waving the "flag." Those citizens who embraced the conservative pundits views also intertwined the flag with Christianity practically replacing the cross as the religion's symbol. The beginning of the 21st century has seen the pendulum swing very far to the right twisting the consciousness of the United States and its views on patriotism. But no more shall I resist flying the flag!<br /><br />After my friend Adam died fighting in Iraq I did some soul searching, and I found comfort in the stars and stripes. While his death was as senseless as the war itself, I saw Adam's sacrifice representing something bigger than ourselves, and I found myself urning for my country to finally embrace those ideals it has yet to achieve. I am reminded of the movie <span style="font-style: italic;">Saving Private Ryan</span>, where Tom Hanks' character imparts instructions to Ryan, played by Matt Damon. At the end of the movie Hanks' character is gravely wounded and Damon bends down to hear Hanks speak the words "Earn this." Ryan was saved because of the sacrifice of fellow soldiers.<br /><br />Now more than ever, citizens need to take charge once again, and earn the sacrifice of those who died. Our country has been led down the wrong path for the past several decades. Positive social institutions created during the progressive era of F.D.R., have been worn away bit by bit. Greedy corporations making consumption our new pastime control the government through well financed lobbyists and the so called "liberal media." Apathy exhibited by Americans towards the government is astounding. It is time for those who believe that the United States is "one nation indivisible with liberty and justice for all," stand and reclaim the flag.Mike Jacobyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00962961240746869584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6402372698677278389.post-55344260723358612702007-10-27T17:06:00.000-04:002007-11-11T18:12:02.036-05:00He was a friend of mine...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFI8xeidt1c0CxUK04IEZit53m_f_wwBgmdVwI-2u6HpRiUQX_aVtODdUHkiCI9LMl4fIGBOJfAq8MI_O1oDybGfyVt8haQujPMznVRChLlBuE9elyON1V8LO-jsFgJxLdw7D9WnSJlWVL/s1600-h/de16%5E005.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFI8xeidt1c0CxUK04IEZit53m_f_wwBgmdVwI-2u6HpRiUQX_aVtODdUHkiCI9LMl4fIGBOJfAq8MI_O1oDybGfyVt8haQujPMznVRChLlBuE9elyON1V8LO-jsFgJxLdw7D9WnSJlWVL/s200/de16%5E005.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5126192343635343650" border="0" /></a><br />Two days ago my world shattered when I found out that my friend of 36 years was killed in Iraq. Adam and I have remained friends through good times and bad. Along the way we have had many adventures filled with humor.<br /><br />For the past couple of days I have been reflecting on those memories while riding an emotional roller coaster trying to deal with the loss of a good friend. Everything that has been pissing me off about what is going on in the world now became more real than I could ever imagine. A cruel slap to the face leaving me powerless and numb. As I type now pictures of Adam litter my desk. I repeatedly read the press clippings on the Internet, and I am amazed how compact and concise the media has made this tragedy.<br /><br />Adam was due to come home at the end of November. Initially, he was <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">supposed</span> to be out of the Army last August, but with the "stop loss" tactics in place he was sent back to Iraq for another 15 month deployment. My anger stems from this administration's blatant mishandling of our nations most precious resource, our armed forces. Adam, like his brothers and sisters in the military, gladly went to Iraq because of their dedication to this country. I admire that dedication and selfless service that our military provides to keep us safe. So, I must apologize for not doing more to protect those who protect us from the greedy individuals that used this war to further their twisted agendas and line their pockets with blood money. While Adam and his comrades have not failed us, we as citizens have failed them.<br /><br />As I move forward I must keep vigilant not to let my memories of Adam fade. I will miss his <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">generosity</span>, loyalty, and strength. Adam's gregarious nature made him the lynch-pin in our circle of friends. Adam was excited to get home and meet up with everyone. I sure that even though his time in Iraq was hard Adam would have funny stories to tell leaving everyone on the floor in stitches. Comfort now lies in stories of our shared past.<br /><br />Rest in Peace Adam. You are already missed.<br /><br />Adam J. Chitjian August 30, 1968- October 25, 2007.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div>Mike Jacobyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00962961240746869584noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6402372698677278389.post-91079724220251870992007-07-03T09:31:00.001-04:002007-11-11T18:13:09.843-05:00What's Next?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-vdFpXIPhRruv4gFJL1YE7XuiBSmPDltXKmjGByW4A53Z_X3AG_Bk1y-XDhcuWfV-_MPQ8XrEiH-koLTbA4tk2tI2x63D-xbj4U7oPBOlGvfran9D7fjzKvzqkgBhcv6d-gDG-ZZEsn8j/s1600-h/sedated-monkeys.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-vdFpXIPhRruv4gFJL1YE7XuiBSmPDltXKmjGByW4A53Z_X3AG_Bk1y-XDhcuWfV-_MPQ8XrEiH-koLTbA4tk2tI2x63D-xbj4U7oPBOlGvfran9D7fjzKvzqkgBhcv6d-gDG-ZZEsn8j/s200/sedated-monkeys.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5083047345506163650" border="0" /></a><br />So much for my summer! George W. Bush has shown another facet of his administration to the U.S. and the world, unaccountability! Commuting "Scooter" Libby's sentence is perhaps the most blatant misuse of power seen yet from this circle of war-profiteering thugs. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">C'mon</span>, 30 months in prison would be a walk in the park. How so, you ask? Because Libby would not have done his full sentence, and he probably would go to a minimum security prison.<br /><br />In this corrupt administration of shredding, withholding, and deleting evidence there should be no surprise W stepped in to help a loyal underling. This is about <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">CYA</span>, y'all. An editorial in the <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2007/07/03/opinion/03tues1.web.html">NY Times</a> said it best, "Presidents have the power to grant clemency and pardons. But in this case, Mr. Bush did not sound like a leader making tough decisions about justice. He sounded like a man worried about what a former loyalist might say when actually staring into a prison cell."<br /><br />But some people will applaud this decision, and sadly enough believe this president is doing a good job. Oh well, I give up. I have put up with all the nonsense the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">neo</span>-cons have dished out over the past seven years, but this just burns me to the core. If this kind of chicanery occurred anywhere else in the world people would flock to the streets in protest. Here in the U.S., however, I hear the deafening silence of acceptance. We have lost out revolutionary spirit. We have partaken of the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Kool</span>-Aid that the media-filter serves us daily, and we obediently consume to our hearts content. Sad situation indeed.Mike Jacobyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00962961240746869584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6402372698677278389.post-73622339960229896512007-05-18T09:57:00.000-04:002007-11-11T18:10:15.944-05:00Finally!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPPVcfiGzxzypezoc5MLgd0Lnj832W-h_7UkP4N-837bNY_iVQ3JFEfnJ9cBO_OGRdH4GR0UOkrsXhpSLLa-9VjDtlSRgccF4veps5fjPh8S1PDlytEa0T43hWAljs4KJtJYfMqn5u9L42/s1600-h/diploma1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPPVcfiGzxzypezoc5MLgd0Lnj832W-h_7UkP4N-837bNY_iVQ3JFEfnJ9cBO_OGRdH4GR0UOkrsXhpSLLa-9VjDtlSRgccF4veps5fjPh8S1PDlytEa0T43hWAljs4KJtJYfMqn5u9L42/s200/diploma1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5066080048817127538" border="0" /></a>Yesterday, after many years of papers and tests I finally received my Bachelor of Arts from <a href="http://www.temple.edu/">Temple University</a>.<br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br />My college journey began in 1989, and along the way life and its many adventures intersected with my academic career. I did not realize the importance of having a four year degree until I was laid off in 2002. I was working in information technology as a database administrator for a firm in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Norristown</span></span>, PA. While collecting unemployment and consulting, I found my job search hindered by the very fact that my resume lacked a degree. I was frustrated since my resume showed the culmination of over 10 years of experience in IT. So, in 2003 I decided to seriously pursue my education.<br /><br />I had a handful of credits to my name, and since the last time I went to class was in 1995 they were still good. I believed I would pursue a degree in computer science, but after taking a history and a philosophy course that route seemed not so interesting anymore. I changed focus to history, and when I attended Temple I declared history my major and minored in philosophy.<br /><br />Some would ask, "What are you going to do with a <span style="font-style: italic;">that </span>degree?" Well, as the cliche goes, just about anything. Honestly getting my degree was not in vain, because I did learn a lot about myself and the world. My future plan is to attended <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Drexel</span></span> University for a Masters in Library and Information Science. However, first I need to pay down some of my student loans, so I will be looking for work in IT again.<br /><br /><br /></div>Mike Jacobyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00962961240746869584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6402372698677278389.post-65389966151512791512007-05-15T22:22:00.000-04:002007-11-11T18:13:57.803-05:00Church of Reality<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;">Recently, I was doing my daily web reading and came across a link to the <a href="http://www.churchofreality.org/"><st1:place><st1:placetype>Church</st1:placetype> of <st1:placename>Reality</st1:placename></st1:place></a>. I was very curious, so I clicked on the link. What I found was an interesting manifesto written by Marc Perkel. Perkel, calls himself the “First One,” because it was his idea. Fair enough. The church’s mission statement is “If it’s real—we believe in it,” but at the same time questioning what is real. </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;">What is reality? That is a good question since reality is different for everyone, and defining reality has been the subject of philosophical debate for centuries. I think Perkel’s intentions are not necessarily in creating a religion <i style="">per se</i>, but questioning the religious landscape that exists currently in the <st1:country-region><st1:place>United States</st1:place></st1:country-region>. What is portrayed by the main-stream media to be the prominent religious viewpoint is disturbing. For the past couple of decades Christianity in <st1:country-region><st1:place>America</st1:place></st1:country-region> had become synonymous with backward thinking. On subjects such as abortion, gay marriage, evolution, and stem cell research have brought out the worst in the Christian community, and have colored all Christians with one brush. I think Perkel’s site is a reaction to a very vocal minority group that has become so intertwined with the current President’s administration and Republican Party. Perkel makes a good point by stating we need to think and question, and religious people do just that. Not all religious people are mired in absolutism. Not all religious people reject reason and science.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;">So, why set up a religion? Why create a religion based on a structure that you do not like in the first place? What does an Atheist need with a religion to believe in to begin with? Perhaps it would be better to restructure the <st1:place><st1:placetype>Church</st1:placetype> of <st1:placename>Reality</st1:placename></st1:place> as a philosophical system. Personally that would make more sense rather than mimicking the very institution you do not agree with. </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;">I don’t want to come off as bashing Perkel’s vision. I’m only raising questions, and I believe he would agree with questioning. Also, I agree with many of Perkel’s views on issues such as patriotism and the death penalty. The site is an online tome, and is worth visiting. The address is <a href="http://www.churchofreality.org/">http://www.churchofreality.org</a> </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><o:p><br /></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b style=""><u>Parting Shot</u></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p><br /><span style=""> </span><a href="http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20070516/ap_on_re_us/jerry_falwell">Rev. Jerry Falwell</a> died of an apparent heart rhythm abnormality today. He was 73 years old. Falwell was the founder of the Christian Coalition and was a TV Evangelist, and his television ministry mobilized millions of votes to get Ronald Regan elected President.<br /></p>Mike Jacobyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00962961240746869584noreply@blogger.com0