Louisiana gubernatorial elections are just around the corner, only days away. Who are the candidates most likely to be in the runoff, and just what kind of election system does Louisiana have? I know a little bit about this having served as Secretary of State, the state’s top elections official. OK, it was many years ago, but I still have some current ideas. And I’m wondering why there are not many fresh ideas coming from those who want to hold the state’s highest office. I write about this concern in my new column now posted. You can read it by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

I am just completing a pilgrimage to Jerusalem in Israel. My stay is at Saint George College, and I am pictured with Rev. Richard Sewell, the Dean. This is a  stop for travelers like me who are exploring my faith. It’s been a rewarding stay, and I will be writing about it extensively in a new book. You can hear my recent podcast about the trip by Clicking Here.

Have you ever felt it was time to perhaps get away from it all, and do a little introspective searching, whatever your priorities might be? As you get along in life, there are choices to be made, and perhaps a review of what all you have or might have done with your life. That’s where I found myself in recent months. Sotoe get a better sense of my own legacy, I decided to make a trip to Jerusalem. I write about this quest in this week’s column. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

When someone is accused of a crime, it’s basic  in a democracy to have a trial or hearing open to the public, just like O. J. Simpson and Watergate back in the 70s. America has a right to witness the trials of anyone as important as an ex president or anyone for that matter.  Should all  public trial open and televised? I talk about this important issue in my new column now posted. You can read it now now by going to the RedFlashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

The title hopes of Louisiana’s flagship University, LSU, were dampened in its home opener with a messy lost to Florida State University. I have  followed the highs and lows of LSU football for over 50 years.  What a treat to follow the players who grew up in Louisiana, played high school football, then went on to a great football career and stayed in  Louisiana. No more! Something called the NIL allows players to   make big  bucks and transfer a will to another school.  For  me, it’s just not fun anymore.  See my analysis about LSU football. You could read it by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

“The whole aim of practical politics is to keep the populace alarmed

(and hence clamorous to be led to safety) by an endless series of hobgoblins, most of them imaginary.”””H.L. Mencken

See chilling article about federal government t abuse and overreach by Clicking Here.

Have you listened to the words of the number one country song all of the nation right now? It’s a damn shame what the world’s gotten to, For people like me and people like you.  Country singer Oliver Anthony, a new voice on the music scene, is stirring up lots of controversy in both political parties about his view that the average worker is getting screwed over in this country today. Voices on both sides of the political spectrum have weighed in. It seems like recently we have a lot of country singers that are stirring up political dust. Take a look at my new column where I give my thoughts about Anthony and his music. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

To you listen to this new podcast, go to www.datelinelouisiana.com.

What a terrible headline. To think that Americans are being spied on at the same rate of citizens in China are. This is a very chilling story that should do deeply concern all American citizens.  To read this whole disgusting article, Click Here.

Anyone who says there is not something different and deeply concerning going on relating to the weather it’s just not being realistic. Maybe it’s climate change or something else, but serious weather related damage is becoming the norm. And unfortunately, the response in the US is not what it should be. We should have  learned some serious lessons after Katrina. But apparently not, when you look at what’s going on in Maui today. I write about my analysis of this serious problem concerning a weak diaster response in this week’s column. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

Former President Donald Trump continues to be outlandish in his attacks on his opponents, and his brash style of campaigning for a second term. He viewed by many observers as one of a kind, with a style that is unique. But Is he one of a kind? Is there anyone else out there that emulates Trump’s aggressiveness and self-centered commentary? Well, when do you want to look for someone comparable, where do you look?  Louisiana, of course.  Read this week’s column where Trump is compared to a similar Louisiana lightning rod, Ole’ Huey Long.  You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

It was just a few weeks ago when country music star, Jason Aldean’s new song, “Try That in a Small Town,” stirred up a great deal of interest, and was quite controversial. Now we have a new challenger for the top spot. Oliver Anthony has a song called “Rich Men north of Richmond” that threw the  gauntlet at lawmakers in Washington DC and all the spending going on. Take a listen and see what you think.

See latest on Louisiana’s insurance problems by Clicking Here.

Promises, promises. For years, the politicians have assured Louisiana policy holders that their car insurance rates would come down. By 25%, said the insurance years ago. The business group LABI also assured drivers that by  cutting back on legal rights, a huge drop would take place for the cost of auto insurance. How wrong they all were. Rates continue to go up; by as much is 38% just this year alone. So is there a solution? Of course there is. Some common sense proposals could cause a significant drop in the cost of auto insurance. That is, if the legislature and the insurance department will pay attention.  Read all my thoughts about this important issue by going to my new column.  You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

To listen to this informative podcast, go to www.datelinelouisiana.com.

I’m a huge fan of André Rieu & his Johann Strauss Orchestra. I sure hope I have a chance to see them in person someday in the near future. Take a look at his Orchestra performing together with the 15-year-old Emma Kok. Emma is quite an inspiration as you will learn from this video. Be sure and take a look and listen.

Louisiana continues to be at the bottom of the barrel when it comes to educational reform. So what’s the problem? Why are the Bayou State’s kids so far behind?  It’s not too difficult to figure out. We start way, way too late. And our kids have a hard time catching up. What are other states doing, and what can Louisiana do to be more competitive? I write about problems and solutions in my new column now posted. You can read it by Clicking Here or by going to the Red Flashing Box above.

It seems like there is always a political controversy. Last week, I wrote about liberal whining over the meeting at the new song by Jason Aldean, “Try that in a Small Town.”  Now this week, we will take a look at conservative commentators and politicians  going nuts over a movie. That’s right a movie!  Conservative politicians like Texas Senator Ted Cruz are all upset over the Barbie movie.  GIVE US A BREAK.  You can read all about it in my new column now posted. Go to the Red Flashing Box above or Click Here.

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You can listen to hundred formative podcast on why it’s so darn hot. Join me and my cohost Rannah Gray to listen to this informative discussion. Do you listen go to www.datelinelouisiana.com.

My good friend from college days at the University of North Carolina died recently. Jim Rushton wrote 18 books. He was a historian and novelist, and he provided a 96-page “interrogation” memo for David Frost’s TV interviews that prodded Nixon to admit, “I let the American people down” over Watergate.  He was a great athlete at Carolina, and still holds the record for scoring the most goals in a soccer match there.  We last visited in Linville, North Carolina on his book tour a year ago.  During our Carolina days, Jim and I would have dinner each evening at the Phi Delta Theta fraternity house. I wish our conversations had been recorded as we made a gallant effort to solve most of the world’s problems.  Jim was 82 years old and died of cancer.  I will sure miss my friend of 70 years.  To read his full biography, Click Here.

How do you’ve been following the controversy about Jason Aldean’s latest top hits, “Try That in a Small Town?”  The song has critics piling on, particularly those who live in big cities. But Aldean’s new song is taking off like a rocket, and it is leading most of the country related charts.  So what’s all the controversy about I talk about it in my new column, not posted. You can read it by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here. And you could also see the video itself below.

You can listen to our new podcast by going to www.datelinelouisiana.com. This week, we look at our feet issues all of the nation. Martha Stewart in a swimsuit? Give us a break. How to stay  politically correct, and the Donald’s problems keep piling up. So take a listen.

You wonder just how bad the insurance crisis in Louisiana can continue to be.  Despite promises from the insurance department and from the legislature, the cost of insuring a home or other properties continue to rise. And sometimes the increases are tremendous. Citizens Property Insurance Company is raising rates in New Orleans by as much as 89%. It’s just making insurance  unaffordable for thousands of Louisiana citizens. So what to do? I supply a few suggestions in my new column. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

Most of us who are a little older have grown up with AM radio.  But it may not be lasting for much longer.  A number of auto companies are not including AM radio in their new vehicles.  And it’s a shame.  Why are they doing this?  Take a look at my new column.  And join me in a walk down AM radio memory.  You can read it now by Clicking Here or going to the Red Flashing Box above.

One of the big problems with the cost of insurance? The failure of the legislature and the insurance department to take aggressive action.  Take a look at the problem  by Clicking Here.

Wow, our Louisiana US Senator John Kennedy has sure stirred up a fire storm in Washington. He’s very aggressively expressed outrage that the Mexican government has not done enough to stop the influx of drugs into Louisiana and the United States. His verbal pitchfork hit home, and a strong response came back from both the Mexican ambassador to the United States as well as the Mexican president himself. Just what did Senator Kennedy say that unleashed such a response? I write about it and give my opinion in my new column now posted. You can read it by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

So when the Governor leaves the country in Louisiana, who is there to run the show? Is it  the Lt.Governor? Some other state official? No one? There seems to be some question, at least in some observers minds.  When in doubt, we should look to the Louisiana constitution. And I know something about this document, having been a delegate what is written back in 1973. I answer this question in my new column now posted. You can read it by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

Check out new podcast at www.datelinelouisiana.com.

“Whoever fights monsters should see to it that in the process he does not become a monster.”“” Friedrich Nietzsche

We’re not dealing with a government that exists to serve its people, protect their liberties and ensure their happiness.  Rather, we are the unfortunate victims of the diabolical machinations of a make-works program carried out on an epic scale whose only purpose is to keep the powers-that-be permanently (and profitably) employed.  Case in point: the FBI. See entire article by Clicking Here.

I’ve been a Southern country lawyer for most of my life. Darn proud of it. But former President Donald Trump seems to think those of us who chose to practice in a rural area aren’t all that bright. He said some things that have raised some questions in my mind as to how much he actually knows about a country law practice. I point out some of these errors of judgment on the part of the former president in my new column now posted. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

Louisiana has a long and colorful history with France. If you go back over many years, France has been a real ally of America, but there have been  particularly close ties with the Bayou State.  There is still a lot of French spoken in Louisiana, and you can see the French influence in traveling throughout South Louisiana New Orleans. I write about the special relationship in my column this week. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

Louisiana has a long and colorful history with France. If you go back over many years, France has been a real ally of America, but there have been  particularly close ties with the Bayou State.  There is still a lot of French spoken in Louisiana, and you can see the French influence in traveling throughout South Louisiana New Orleans. I write about the special relationship in my column this week. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

You cannot go to Paris, if you are a book lover, and not spend some time at the Shakespeare bookstore on the West Bank by Notre Dame cathedral. It is so famous that people stand in line to get in. I picked up some good ideas for The Lisburn Press and bought way too many books.

Newspapers all over America were in a dither a few months ago when a congressman called president Biden a liar right in the middle of the state of the union speech. Apparently, these members of Congress and other officials in Washington have a thin skin. They should never been down to Louisiana and got a taste of Louisiana politics. Lying in the Bayou State is often taken for granted. I write about this condition in my new column now posted. You can read it by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

Newspapers all over America were in a dither a few months ago when a congressman called president Biden a liar right in the middle of the state of the union speech. Apparently, these members of Congress and other officials in Washington have a thin skin. They should never been down to Louisiana and got a taste of Louisiana politics. Lying in the Bayou State is often taken for granted. I write about this condition in my new column now posted. You can read it by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

Last time Louisiana adopted a new constitution, it was 50 years ago. A great deal has happened in the state since then. There’s rumblings now but it’s time for a new convention. I was a delegate to C 73, and I agree it’s time for a new constitution to be written. I analyze all my thoughts oaths issue in my new column that is now posted. You can read it by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

Did the FBI try to rig the election in 2016 for Hillary Clinton? A special counsel who investigated said it did.  This weeks Wall Street Journal had a headline that said “Damning account of the corruption of the FBI.”  We’ve seen story after story about corruption and incompetence within the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Time for Congress to take some strict action and clean house.  To read a full account, Click Here.

Louisiana is supposedly flush with cash, and some agencies are spending money, well, like drunken sailors? That’s right. The Bayou State has done a poor job of setting priorities and keeping an eye on how the money is spent. I write about two glaring examples in this weeks column. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

So many of my friends are getting older. Including me. I just had a birthday, and I reflect back on what makes up the good life. What should be your priorities as you get older? Should one be concerned about  death? Shakespeare says so, but I disagree. I share all these thoughts as I pass the year of 83. Check out my new column. You can read it now but by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

The Louisiana legislature is in session right now, and one of the most controversial proposals is to give all legislators a pay raise from $16,800-$60,000. Quite a jump. Now let me say that I think a pay raise is deserving. But they make a lot more than $16,800 when you total up all the benefits. I have first-hand knowledge, as I was a senator, and made a pittance being a legislator. You could read my thoughts and my experience by going to my new column now posted. To read it, click on the Red Flashing Box above or Click Here.

New Podcast up.  Go to www.DateLineLouisiana.com.

Were you up and about at 5 o’clock am on Saturday? It was really nice of King Charles to have his Coronation on my birthday. I’m having British tea and biscuits.

It’s hard to see how you can besmirch the FBI anymore. Week after week, there seems to be more disclosures about ineptitude, carelessness, or outright criminal activity by FBI agents and former FBI Agents.  In the latest scandal, a former FBI agent has been arrested and accused of urging a mob of Trump supporters to kill police during the January 6, 2021 attack on the US Capitol. A former agent named Jared Wise was filmed outside the capital calling police officers Nazis and encouraging rioters attacking the police line to “Kill ’em!” Kill ’em!”  “You guys are disgusting.” Then he yells, “You are the Nazi. You are the Gestapo…. Shame on you!”  

Here is the attitude of many FBI agents like Wise.  “There is no good or bad. Only wolves and sheep. Predators and prey.  Many of those in the justice system make their living off giving the wolves their teeth. And the sheep? Well, they get what’s coming to them.”  Makes us really proud of FBI agents doesn’t it?

Louisiana’s gubernatorial election is less than six months away, with a whole slew of candidates, lining up to try to gain the states top prize. There’s a”jungle primary” in the state where every c candidate  runs at the same time, irrespective of party designation. But are  the runoff spots  already taken by one Democrat and one Republican? That’s the focus of this week’s column.  You could read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

It’s been 50 years since the constitutional convention of 1973, and Louisiana’s current constitution was written. I was fortunate to be in that number. Those of us still living, and there are a few, gathered at the Louisiana governor’s mansion for a luncheon and time to look back. Governor Edwards hosted our gathering, and it was a great time to see all friends.

Let’s get ready for the naysayers. That’s right! Louisiana elections are just a few months away. And isn’t it true, as some allege, that the elections are fixed? One who knows what they are doing can certainly infiltrate the voting machines, and change the results of the election.  Or can they? In my new column, now posted, I take a look at the fraud allegations of Louisiana elections. Having served as secretary of state, I know something about this whole controversy. To read my new column, click on the Red Flashing Box above or Click Here.

Louisiana attorney generals common go.  But Richard Ieyoub was a  a special guy. During the 12 years I served as Louisiana’s insurance commissioner, Richard held the office of attorney general. We worked closely together, and I have some fond memories, both when we were in public office, and in later years. He passed away last week. I talk about Richard in my new column now posted. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

The legislature is coming into session this week, and here we go again. All this talk about insurance, and nothing substantive happening. All the proposals so far are nothing more than legislators putting their fingers into the insurance dike that’s about to collapse.  I write about some of the questionable ideas put forth so far, and how nothing has been proposed to give protections for policyholders. You can read my column now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

In Louisiana, it’s always something.  The Bayou State either stirs  up a hornet’s nest, makes a mess, creates a mess, or actually causes the mess.  Causing the mess is the focus of news all across the country as a Baton Rouge gal, porn star Stormy Daniels, has caused former President Donald Trump to be indicted.  Of all the controversy is stirred up by the ex-president, it’s hard to imagine, but a dalliance with a porn star could bring Trump into a courtroom to face state charges in New York City.  This, of course, is the focus of my column this week. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

What on earth is going on in Washington DC? Can you believe that Republican members of Congress are supporting legislation that will give federal control over our local school boards? I’m stunned! What on earth is happening  in our country? And what’s even more shocking is that the lead author on the legislation is from Louisiana. Now yes, we know that there are problems with local school boards, and great controversies over library books, and other ways to teach. But do we  want the federal government, including the US Department of education and the Justice Department meddling in how we run our schools in Louisiana? I hope not. I write about all of this in my new column now posted. You can read it by going to theRed flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

Take a look at the video of former football great Peyton Manning, who decides to check into a retirement home. The Manning family lives in New Orleans and are the the first family of football. I think you’ll get a kick out of the video.

Here we go again. The second and third largest bank collapses in America took place last week. The banks were negligent in their lending practices, and did not have enough reserves in place. But why worry about it. After all, the federal government is there to bail them out, like they always seem to do. These banks are supposedly too big to fail, yet when they do, they are the first in line to ask for a government bail out. Billions of dollars paid by, guess who? You and me. I write about poor bank practices and the poor government regulation in my new column now posted. You can read it by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

It’s been 55 years since one of the great American war tragedies took place. It continues to be a stain on America’s image of being honorable and not being vindictive in the time of war. It was the My Lia massacre, and a tragedy of which America should not be proud. But like so often when tragedies happen, some special person rise to the occasion and put a stop to wrongdoing. Such a hero was Colonel Hugh Thompson from Lafayette. I write about his bravery in this week’s column. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

From the Wall Street Journal. (Letters to the Editor)

“I always believed that the Covid virus leaked from a Wuhan lab, but now that the FBI has confirmed it, I have my doubts.”  Ken Matthew-Long Beach , Miss.

Jim Brown, former Louisiana Secretary of State, Insurance Commissioner and State Senator makes a return visit to the podcast and for good reason. He always has a lot of stories to tell. Brown joins Errol Laborde, Executive Editor of Louisiana Life, along with podcast producer Kelly Massicot to tell tales from his latest book, “My Louisiana Odyssey: A Memoir,” including a late night phone call from Bill Clinton and flying with Edwin Edwards. Oh yes, we will also hear about visiting a saint’s relic and why.

Recent reports list Louisiana as one of the top gambling spots worldwide. And when it comes to choices of how you gamble, you just cannot find a state or country with  so many options. Yes, there are big casinos in other locations, but no one has the wide variety of various ways to gamble.  You might be surprised at the list I have compiled. All this information is found in my new column now posted. To read it, go to the Red Flashing Box above or Click Here. 

Can’t we just make it one more day without some new scandal brewing inside the FBI?  Check out this headline of this week’s New York post: ” 30 years ago, the FBI might have had its biggest bomb: the World Trade Center attack.  The story went on to say:

Thirty years ago Sunday, the largest terrorist attack then in American history occurred when a 1,200-pound bomb exploded beneath the World Trade Center in New York City.It was sheer luck that the explosion did not topple the entire skyscraper and kill thousands of people.  Politicians solemnly marked the anniversary, but dignitaries made no mention of the FBI’s role in that disaster.”  Read on to see the bubbling, and how ineffective the FBI was in the whole terrible mess.

A presidential candidate says candidates over 75 years old should take a competency test. Is old age a disqualification in running for public office? What about understanding public issues to begin with? Does being young automatically qualify one to understand just had to run any public office? I take a look at these questions in my new column now posted. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

WASHINGTON, DC “” The U.S. Supreme Court has declined to hear the appeal of an Ohio man who was arrested, jailed, had his apartment searched, and had his phone and laptop seized by police in retaliation for mocking the police department through a parody Facebook page. Thumbs down for a bad decision.  To see the full story, Click Here.

Check out our new podcast just posted on the ridiculous cost of all forms of insurance in Louisiana.  You can listen now by going to www.datelinelouisiana.com.

In recent months, the FBI has come under continuing attack. In fact, the Wall Street Journal has called for the abolishment of what what is supposed to be the nations premier, law-enforcement organization.  And for many good reasons.  Let us tell you hell out of control the FBI has become. He said internal memo was released, saying that Americans who believe in the Latin traditional Catholic Mass terrorists and should be investigated.   That’s exactly what the memo says. I kid you not.  Take a look at my new column that lays out the facts. They may shock you. To read it, go to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

So many families today are forced to deal with dementia and Alzheimer’s that affect their loved ones. The toll is not only devastating to the individual who comes down with such terrible diseases, but family members and particularly the caregivers are also deeply affected. Is there any answer on the horizon?  I talk about several experiences in my new column now posted. You can read it by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

Yes it’s Mardi Gras time with people all over Louisiana celebrating the days before the Lenten season.  Parades are taking place right now in the cities all over the state. And we you  come to Mardi Gras, we all love the great music. My favorite is Professor Long Hair and you can listen below.

What’s all this stuff about we don’t need another hero? The naysayers in this day and age seem to undermine anyone who succeeds, and the criticism in politics is just overwhelming. I started out with my first hero when I was 11 years old. If you go to read my new column, you will see who it is. Tina Turner has a song that sings “We don’t need another Hero.”  Tina, you’re wrong. Hey, check out my new column about my thoughts on why we need heroes. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

An FBI agent stops at a farm to see a local rancher.

He tells the rancher, “I need to inspect your ranch for illegally grown drugs.”

The rancher says, “Okay, but do not go in that field over there,” as he points out the location.

The FBI agent verbally explodes saying, “Mister, I have the authority of the Federal Government with me.”

Reaching into his rear pants pocket, he removes his badge and proudly displays it to the rancher.

“See this badge? This badge means I am allowed to go wherever I wish… On any land. No questions asked or answer given. Have I made myself clear? Do you understand? “

The rancher nods politely, apologizes, and goes about his chores.

A short time later, the old rancher hears loud screams and sees the FBI agent running for his life chased by the rancher’s big Santa Gertrudis Bull…

With every step, the bull is gaining ground on the officer, and it seems likely that he’ll get gored before he reaches safety.

The agent is clearly terrified.

The rancher, in a slow southern drawl, rambles casually over to the fence before cupping his hands and shouting:

“Your badge… Show him your badge!”

Two old guys are pushing their carts around Wal*Mart when they collide:

The first old guy says to the second guy. “Sorry about that. I’m looking for my wife and I guess I wasn’t paying attention to where I was going.”

The second old guy says. “That’s OK. It’s a coincidence. I’m looking for my wife, too. I can’t find her and I’m getting a little desperate.”

The first says. “Well, maybe we can help each other. What does your wife look like?”

The second old guy says. “Well, she is 27 yrs old, tall, with red hair, blue eyes, long legs, big busted and is wearing short shorts. What does your wife look like?”

The first old guy says. “Doesn’t matter, let’s look for yours.”

Students arrived in some Florida public school classrooms this month to find their teachers’ bookshelves wrapped in paper “” or entirely barren of books “” after district officials launched a review of the texts’ appropriateness under a new state law.  Do you read the whole story about a new wave of book censors, Click Here.

A Baton Rouge killing with worldwide interest related to the drug cartel trade was back in the news this week. Barry Seal at one time was by far the largest drug smuggler in America. He worked for the Colombian drug cartel that was headed up by Pueblo Escobar. The fellow who orchestrated the assassination of Seal is in Louisiana prison, and he asked Governor Edwards for a pardon.  No ways said the Governor. In this week’s column, I write about Seal, his Baton Rouge connections, and just how he got assassinated. There’s also questionable federal judicial conduct involved. Take a look and see what you think. You can read the column now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

I really love this song, “Born to be an Eagle.”  It’s produced by my long time friend, Jimmy Carr out of Winnsboro, Louisiana.  I hope I was born to be an eagle and that my life accentuated such a highflying commitment to a good life.  Take a listen.

It was 60 years ago, yet the speculation of who actually killed former President John F Kennedy continues to be discussed. Was there more than one shooter? When did the plot begin?  Did Lee Harvey Oswald act alone? Or was there an actual conspiracy. I have my own theory, and I write about it in this week’s column. In fact, I almost got to the bottom of it; well, at least from my perspective. And by the way, above is a picture of Kennedy rarely seen wearing a hat, and that’s former Louisiana governor Edwin Edwards to his right.You can read all my thoughts in my new column now posted. Go to the Red Flashing Box above or Click On Here.

Oh, and here is an afterthought. In the Oliver Stone movie, JFK, District attorney Jim Garrison is played by Kevin Costner. I had a chance to talk to Koster about his role a few years back as you can see below.

It would seem that the attacks and criticisms of the FBI never cease. A week does not go by when we don’t see more news articles plummeting the reputation and the confidence of what is supposed to be the nations premier, law-enforcement agency. How wrong this is proven to be.  Check out the various articles below to get a  perspective of how bad things are for the FBI. Click on  the article title to read it.

The FBI’s Attacks on MLK, Jr. Are Helpful Reminders for Today

Did J. Edgar Hoover Order the Assassination of Martin Luther King Jr

The FBI and Attacks on Personal Liberty

Are you sure what you are saying passes the politically correct test? In this day and age, you never know. Things I’ve been saying and writing for years, to some, just does not cut it in today’s world.  But you know what? I’m just too old, or perhaps too bullheaded to change, and I don’t mind using phrases and words that I have been putting in columns for many years. That’s just the way I think but others may disagree. Look over my new column and see if you and I are on the same wavelength. To read it, click on the Red Flashing Box above or Click Here.

Remember the scene in Pretty Woman when Richard Gere tells Julia Roberts “People’s reactions to opera the first time they see it is very dramatic. They either love it or they hate it. If they love it, they will always love it. If they don’t, they may learn to appreciate it – but it will never become part of their soul.”

I’m not sure that opera is a part of my soul, but I really enjoy my few favorites.  The Metropolitan Opera in New York broadcasts regular Saturday afternoon performances. For a number of years, I would go back to my clothes closet (we have a crowded household), curl up with some blankets on the floor, and listen to that week’s performance while dozing off and on. If I had to choose, I love listening to Verdi’s La Traviata, but Puccini’s Madame Butterfly would be my favorite. In Act Two, Butterfly sings what to me is the most beautiful aria in all opera, “Un bel dì.“  You can listen below.

The Rutherford Institutes hit  right at home today with his column about overreach, particularly on the part of the Justice Department, and the FBI.  His  column points out that there are continuing violations of the US Constitution by a number of government agencies. Little by little, your basic constitutional rights are being stripped away. To read all of John’s article, Click Here.

Just when you thought the property insurance in Louisiana, could not get me worse, surprise, surprise, surprise. It does. Not just by a little bit. Can you believe that the state run company in Louisiana has increased their race by as much as 83% in New Orleans?  Is there anything that can be done about it? Yes, but it’s going to take some backbone of the part of the legislature in the insurance department. Florida’s legislature just passed major reforms. So what can be done in Louisiana? Check out my new column right talk about this exasperating problem. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

Sorry to say (well, good news for us here at The Lisburn Press) that “The Jim Brown Reader” has completely sold out. If you have not received your copy, bear with us. A second printing is underway. Thanks for understanding. To purchase your 2nd edition copy, go to www.thelisburnpress.com.

Does the blistering criticism of the FBI ever stop? Day after day, the criticisms and attacks pile up on the incompetence of what is supposed to be the Premier law enforcement agency in America. Here’s what the latest article in the Wall Street Journal has to say: “quite simply, the problem ““ the rot within the FBI- festers in and proceeds from Washington.”  To read the compelling, Wall Street Journal article, Click Here.

It’s been another topsy turvy year in Louisiana and throughout the country as we continue to deal with the Covid virus, political upheaval, and an uncertain economy. I’ll be receiving my booster shot next week, but still do not feel all that safe.  In spite of this challenge, we have a lot to be thankful for. I review the new year, and think back over past happier times, in my new column that is now posted. You can read it by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here. And Happy New Year to you.

Here is a new and chilling article from  The Libertarian Institute.”Elon Musk has opened the floodgates to expose the FBI’s latest war on Americans’ freedom of speech. The FBI massively intervened to pressure Twitter to suppress accounts and tweets from individuals the FBI disapproved of, including parody accounts. The FBI and other federal agencies also browbeat Facebook, Instagram, and many other social media companies.”  To read this informative article, Click Here.

What’s so special about living in the country, practically down in the deepest of the deep, southern states, Louisiana?  One would think they would be many more opportunities in a metropolitan area. Depends on what you mean by opportunities. There’s a special flavor to country life that many folks, including myself, feel is extremely appealing. Yes, I’m living in Baton Rouge now, but I write this week about my special time living in Northeast Louisiana, and how I might even  consider going back again one day. You can read my new column now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

I have the great honor of attending the university of North Carolina track scholarship. I was a high and low hurdler, and did pretty fair for a guy back in the 1960s becoming ACC Champion in both the hurdle events.  I never once thought about hitting my head on the track and getting a concussion, even though I fell a number of times.  Now there is new evidence that athletes like me could have faced serious injury. I detailed story the New York Times this week about track athletes in the dangers of falling. I found it interesting, and perhaps you will, too. To read it, Click Here.

Independent former congressman, Ron Paul has always been a bellwether of fresh ideas involving the federal government. His new column gives chilling information about how the FBI works to impede free-speech.  Paul writes this week  that”  “As we learn more and more from the “Twitter Files,” it is becoming all too obvious that Federal agencies such as the FBI viewed the First Amendment of our Constitution as an annoyance and an impediment.  Congressman Paul goes on to say: “So now we have proof that the FBI (along with US intelligence agencies and the Department of Homeland Security) have been acting through “private” social media companies to manipulate what Americans are allowed to say when they communicate with each other. Is there anything more un-American than that? Personally, I find it sickening.
We do not need the FBI and CIA and other federal agencies viewing us as the enemy and attacking our Constitution. End the Fed”¦and End the Federal Bureau of Investigation!”  To read his full commentary, Click Here.

What a special time over this holiday season. This week, I post my annual holiday  column of giving all  of us a  second chance. It takes us from Thanksgiving to Christmas and into the New Year’s. It is certainly one of those popular columns I’ve ever written, and I’m glad to share it with all of my readers. I wish you the happiest of holidays, and look forward to a lively 2023 with lots of commentary, fresh ideas, general observations about what we can do to make our state and country better. See you next year. To click on this weeks column, go to the Red Flashing Box above or Click Here.

He sees you when you’re sleeping
He knows when you’re awake
He knows when you’ve been bad or good
So be good for goodness’ sake!

You’d better watch out””you’d better not pout””you’d better not cry”””˜cos I’m telling you why: this Christmas, it’s the Surveillance State that’s making a list and checking it twice, and it won’t matter whether you’ve been bad or good. You’ll be on this list whether you like it or not.  Read The Future of Freedom Foundation founder John Whitehead’s chilling comments about the all seeing federal government.  Click Here to read.

Did the Russians make up like a bandit in the recent prisoner swap? A druggie basketball player who won’t stand for the national anthem, and we give up the merchant of death. Some deal!  There are a number of other American prisoners in the Soviet union who deserve to be brought home because of false charges against them. Take a look at some of the cartoon comments below, and see what you think. Personally, I think it was a bad deal.

There are a number of reasons why Louisiana has the highest insurance rates in all of America. I’ve listed many such reasons in previous columns I’ve written over the years. But the worst may not be over now. Just after the first of the year, the new Congress is considering tax options that may increase financial burdens on reinsurers. What does this have to do with Louisiana homeowners? When the reinsurers gets stuck for more taxes, they pass these increases along to the insurance companies, who then pass such increases on to homeowners like you and me. I’d write about this complicated and boring subject in this week’s column. Read what is important to us. To read the column, go to the Red Flashing Box above or Click On Here.

               “That was when they suspended the Constitution. They said it would be temporary.”””Margaret Atwood, The Handmaid’s Tale

My friend John Whitehead has written a compelling new article about the continuing erosion of freedoms in America.  From Supreme Court decisions that fly in the face of what should be constitutionally protected, to FBI, another law enforcement agency, overreach, both the constitution and basic American values are under attack. Read John Whitehead’s compelling article.  See it now by Clicking Here.

We have so many great holiday choices. Go to www.thelisburnpress.com.  Happy Holidays!

Everyone in Louisiana is familiar with the proliferation of gambling throughout the state. We gamble on about everything here in the Bayou State.  But what about the limits? The legislature, rightly so, has pass laws requiring that you must be twenty one to gamble in Louisiana. But does the law have any teeth, and is it being enforced? Apparently, not at LSU. Take a look at my discovery in my new column now posted. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

Most Americans come out their daily lives without any understanding or even concern about what is happening halfway around the world to keep all of us free. Serving our country by volunteering for military service seems to be the last thing any young man or woman wants to do. I volunteered to serve my country back in the mid-1960s, the Vietnam war era, then stayed in the Louisiana National Guard for 12 years. We just except the fact that there are those willing to protect us at any cost. Take a look at the video below with the haunting music that shows the challenges are soldiers in the field face. A wonderful tribute.

This lovely young lady plays the violin like an angel. She is stunning, and and she would be at any age. I would still like to hear her live in concert. But for now, I’ll just have to settle for many songs on Youtube. karolina Protsenko lives in California and is certainly child prodigy. Take a listen and see what you think.

On this week’s Dateline Louisiana podcast, Rannah Gray and I talk about the difficult issue of affirmative action as it relates to college and university admissions. What will the Supreme Court decide? You can listen by Clicking Here. 

Mass shootings continue across the US with more of these deranged  gunman opening fire on innocent people. And often, prosecutors bring charges against the killers for committing hate crimes. So what’s a hate crime? If you shoot someone and they’re dead, do you pile on more charges against the killer? Do we get mixed up with what’s in someone’s head? I write about the justification, if there is one, for hate crimes in this weeks column. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

WASHINGTON, D.C. “” The U.S. Supreme Court has refused to rein in the government’s power to indiscriminately pick and choose the laws by which it will abide, especially as it relates to the Sixth Amendment rights of the accused in criminal cases.  “We now live in a society in which a person can be accused of any number of crimes without knowing what exactly he has done. He might be apprehended in the middle of the night by a roving band of SWAT police. He might find himself on a no-fly list, unable to travel for reasons undisclosed. He might have his phones or internet tapped based upon a secret order handed down by a secret court, with no recourse to discover why he was targeted,” said constitutional attorney John W. Whitehead, president of The Rutherford Institute.  See full discussion by Clicking Here.