Do you get frustrated with some many airline problems when you travel? I do. But I love this story. A musician named Dave Carroll recently had difficulty with United Airlines.

Dave spent over 9 months trying to get United to pay for damages caused by baggage handlers to his custom Taylor guitar. During his final exchange with the United Customer Relations Manager, he stated that he was left with no choice other than to create a music video for YouTube exposing their lack of cooperation. The Manager responded: “Good luck with that one, pal.” So he posted a retaliatory video on YouTube. The video has since received over 6 million hits. United Airlines contacted the musician and attempted settlement in exchange for pulling the video. Naturally his response was: “Good luck with that one, pal.”

Taylor Guitars sent the musician 2 new custom guitars in appreciation for the product recognition from the video  that has led to a sharp increase in orders. Here’s the video.

Bloggers today can be tough hombres. Just ask new Republican majority whip Steve Scalise. A 28-year-old law student from Alexandria, Louisiana who blogs for fun outed the Louisiana 1st district congressman for having once spoke to a group that was founded by white supremacist David Duke. Democrats and some conservative Republicans are calling for Scalise’s head. So should he resign, or at least give a better explanation than he has so far? Check out my new column now posted. You can read it by clicking on the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

Weekend radio schedule will be posted Thursday afternoon.

There certainly is a great deal of controversy over our country as to how police officers deal in crisis situation. There certainly is overreaction by some officers, and this should be investigated and those officers who cross the line should be brought to justice. But by and large, most police officers do there job, day after day, in a commendable way. Check out the video below to see what a cop can face, each and every day.

Joe Ely is quite a guy. He’s a well known an American singer, songwriter and guitarist whose music touches on honky-tonk, country and rock and roll. He has had a genre-crossing career, performing with Bruce Springsteen, The Clancy Brothers and James McMurtry in addition to his more recent acoustic tours with Lyle Lovett, John Hiatt, and Guy Clark. He wowed them at the Red Dragon Listening Room this past Saturday Night. Take a listen below to one of my favorites.

Has college football gotten too big for its financial britches? It’s all about money, with players not wanting to attend class, and both coaches and college administrators looking out for the all mighty dollar. What happened to integrity and building character? Good luck with that. My new column takes a look at how money is driving college football, maybe even more so than in the pro football circuit. You can read my new column now posted by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

It’s Weekend Radio Time, ad we are kicking off the New Year with a look into the crystal ball to check out a variety of issues that will no doubt be facing this country today. Will the new Congress really make any difference in Washington? Can Republicans be proactive, rather than just being obstructionists? Will Obama reach out to find a middle ground on many key issues, or will he merely take his veto pen, and try to stop any new legislation coming from the Republican controlled Congress?  Many issues to discuss.

 

Dr. Robert A. Needham will be a guest to discuss his book, Collaborative Commonwealth, where he provides the blueprint for a much needed reformation of governance and for the way our country is financially controlled.  Read more about the book  by Clicking Here.

 

And finally, Lauryne Wright raise’s some serious questions about the influence of the religious right, and undermining of civil liberties in America today. Here book, Raising Questions: Daring to Denounce the Religious Right to Defend Our Civil Rights, will be our kick off point, and you can find out more by Clicking Here. We will see you on the radio. Check local listings for times and stations nationwide.

Here is a major new book from our own The Lisburn Press.  Thunderbolt is a true to life novel about the changes that are taking place in the Catholic Church today. It is a compelling story by first time author Chip Songy of a young Louisiana priest on the fast track for promotion up the chain of the church. The gripping novel deals with current issues including the celibacy requirement for priests and the limitation of the priesthood to makes. Our young priest also faces temptation by a female parishioner he is counseling. His dilemma offers the reader a captivating story that builds suspense right up to the end. Order now by  Clicking Here.

When you consider Louisiana political figures that have had a major influence on the state, former New Orleans Mayor Dutch Morial is high on the list. He was the first African American to serve and be elected in a number of major positions. Dutch died 25 years ago, but his remains were reinterred last week to a new family tomb. I was there for the ceremony and it was a good time to look back on quite a political career. My new column remembers a bright, funny, competent and groundbreaking political figure from days past. You can read it now by Clicking on the Red Flashing Box abuse, or by Clicking Here.

Weekend radio is fast approaching and we are excited about kicking off the New Year with a lively program. Let’s forget 2014. It was a so so year. But there is much to talk but as we look at predictions as to what will happen in 2015. So get your New Year’s resolutions ready and join us.

 How about this? For more than 6 decades the Amazing Kreskin, with a showman’s flair, a comedian’s wit, and the capacities of a bona fide Mentalist or thought-reader, has dramatized the unique facets of the human mind”¦his own. His very name has become an integral part of pop culture throughout the world. And through the years, Kreskin has received international recognition for extraordinary predictions often dealing with world affairs, sports, business and more. We will get his predictions for the coming year.

 We will also talk about how to keep your New Year’s resolutions. So be sure and join us to make some “Common Sense” out of the coming year. Check local listings for times and stations. We will se you on the radio.

We have a new publication just published here at The Lisburn Press, The Clarke Williams Story. Clarke Williams is the classical rags to riches story. He set out to prove that his religious faith has a place in creating a business, and he discovered unbounded success. He proved that building a company in the legacy of sound spiritual principles was the only way. Against all odds, this David in AT&T’s Goliath world today is CenturyLink, the third-largest telecom Company in America.  You can order the book by Clicking Here.

Happy New Year to all of my friends who follow my ramblings on this website. Let’s all wish and hope for a more productive and enjoyable 2015.

Words! Words! Words! We are an opinionated people and the right to protest and strongly state your opinion is part of our heritage and basic in our Constitution. But sometimes, words can incite violence and bad things can happen. Words can set the stage for real tragedy. And that’s what we saw in a culmination of distorted comments, all which played a role in the killing of the two New York City police officers last week. Read my new column and see if you agree. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

Weekend Radio Schedule will be posted Friday afternoon!

It’s been a nice holiday season touching base with friends from all over the country. We’ve had a great Christmas down here in the deepest of the deep Southern states. No snow, something we rarely get, and the temperature hit the mid 60s on Christmas Day. We don”˜t ski or get out to enjoy the snow. See below what happens if we want to build a snowman. Happy holidays to you and your family, and thanks for checking out my website.

If you are a bit older like me, you were part of a new generation of music that blossomed at Woodstock back in 1966. I almost went to the festival. The showstopper was an Englishman, Joe Cocker. He gyrated all over the stage in a style that was unique and his trademark.  I’ve been a fan of his since that time, and saw him perform in person on several occasions. I still have the 33 1/3-vinyl album of his biggest hits called Mad Dogs and Englishmen. Joe Cocker died this week at the young age of 70. Here is his biggest and best song that so many of us grew up with.

So what do we do? Give up some of our key moral values as a nation to provide security? Do the ends justify the means? Has the world changed so that America must torture suspected terrorists if it is to protect its citizens? All timely and relevant questions with the newly released Senate Intelligence report concluding that, yes, the CIA does torture, and often. Does torture really work in gaining critical information? I take a look at a number of these issues in my new column now posted. You can read it by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

Our weekly radio program is approaching, and there will certainly be a lot to talk about this weekend. Renewing relations with Cuba brings up the whole immigration problem, and what we do with the millions of illegals in this country today. David Strange is a managing partner at the law firm of Whittenburg, Strange, & Walker, P.C., and adjunct professor of law at the Texas Tech University who has written “A Conservative and Compassionate Approach to Immigration Reform.” He will join us to discuss this growing problem. See more on his book by Clicking Here.

 

Then, we will slow down a bit, many people think of monastic life as a hopeless throwback to the past, a case of let the last monk or sister standing turn out the lights. Journalist and Pulitzer Prize finalist Judith Valente sees monasteries as a window to the future ““ one we desperately need in our society. Is there a role for a monastic life in your future? Check out her new book, “Atchison Blue: A Search for Silence, a Spiritual Home and a Living Faith.” Read more by Clicking Here.

 

After several weeks on the road, we are back at our home flagship station, Clear Channel’s WJBO, 1150 AM in Baton Rouge this week, after broadcasting from New York City last week. And hats off with holiday best wishes to several of our new affiliates that include:

KFAR, 660 AM in Fairbanks, Alaska.

KVOC,1330 AM in Casper, Wyoming.

WMQM,1600 AM in Memphis, Tennessee.

See you on the radio.

On November 20-21, former Florida Governor Jeb Bush, chairman of the Foundation for Excellence in Education (ExcelinEd), hosted the organization’s 2014 National Summit on Education Reform in Washington, D.C. At the nation’s premier annual education forum, lawmakers and policymakers were immersed in two days of in-depth discussions on proven policies and innovative strategies to improve student achievement. – Daughter Campbell spoke to the conference along with Bush, Condolisa Rice, and a number of others who are pushing educational reform.  Check out Campbell below.

I’m a big  flash mob  guy, and post a number of musical spontaneous events here on my website.  Here is a special one in the holiday season.  Starting with a single cellist on the floor of the National Air and Space Museum’s “Milestones of Flight” gallery, and swelling to 120 musicians, The U.S. Air Force Band exhilarated museum visitors with its first-ever flash mob. The four-minute performance featured an original arrangement of “Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring/Joy to the World,” led by the band’s commander and conductor, Col. Larry H. Lang. Unsuspecting museum visitors including tourists and school groups were astonished as instrumentalists streamed into the gallery from behind airplanes and space capsules, and vocalists burst into song from the Museum’s second floor balcony.  Take a look.

The nation’s last congressional election took place in Louisiana last week. And the Republicans continued to sweep the South. Louisiana incumbent Senator Mary Landrieu lost baldly, and the political pundits said it was all Obama’s fault. But Landrieu missed numerous opportunities to save her seat and get re-elected. I write this week that all politics is local. But Landrieu failed to heed this common sense advice. Check out my new column now posted and see if you agree. You can also see some political cartoonists have profiled the race below. You can read my new column now by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

Boy, do we have a lively program set for this Sunday.  My first  guest is terrorist interrogator. To his friends and neighbors, Glenn L. Carle was a wholesome, stereotypical New England Yankee, a former athlete struggling against incipient middle age, someone always with his nose in an abstruse book. But for two decades Carle broke laws, stole, and lied on a daily basis about nearly everything. “I was almost never who I said I was, or did what I claimed to be doing.” He was a CIA spy. He thrived in an environment of duplicity and ambiguity, flourishing in the gray areas of policy.  Check  out his book by Clicking Here.

Then, as the year comes to a close and a new beginning is on the horizon, it’s a good time to talk about astrology. Do you believe the planets exert forces on us and that  we are all made of energy. We will talk with astrologer Joan Porte about this fascinating subject.  Read about Joan by Clicking Here.  So turn in for a great sh0w, and check your local listings for times and stations.  See you on the radio!

I was raised in St. Louis County, in a little community call Ladue Missouri. My friends and I would often drive the South St. Louis where a large German community was located. There were a number of German restaurants there, and always lots of music. Listen below to this compilation of German melodies that brought back fond memories to me.

I want to take a minute and brag on my nephew, Gary Solomon, Jr. out of New Orleans.  This young man is about as talented as they come.  His company, Solomon Productions, produced and handled just about every aspect of the recent Essence Festival, the NBA All Star Game and numerous other major events throughout the country. Take a look at this impressive light and music show highlighting the history of New Orleans at Gallier Hall. It has drawn hundreds of thousands in the Crescent City. Gary put this whole show together.

Everyone sees to have an opinion as to what caused the turmoil in Ferguson, Missouri.   But there is a big difference between opinion and fact. I know this area well, having gone to high school in Ladue, Missouri than adjoins Ferguson. And it’s obvious to me that those with contrarian opinions too often want to ignore the facts that came out from the grand jury. Was the Michael Brown similar to what happened to Trayvon Martin? Not even close. Take a look at my new column and see if you agree. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

It’s December and many businesses are beginning to wind down their year. Not us here on the “Common Sense” radio show. We never slow down or even take a break. We are back at our home flagship station, Clear Channel’s WJBO, 1150 AM in Baton Rouge this week, after broadcasting from New York City last week. And hats off with holiday best wishes to several of our new affiliates that include:

KFAR, 660 AM in Fairbanks, Alaska.

KVOC,1330 AM in Casper, Wyoming.

WMQM,1600 AM in Memphis, Tennessee.

 

Ferguson, Mo. is still on the “hot topic” list, and we will raise the question of whether police officers should wear a camera in the line of duty. Is this an idea whose time has come? Would body cameras protect both police and public? How would it change the fairness of the criminal justice system? Pete Schulte has been a police officer, a prosecutor, and is now a defense attorney. We will see what he has to say. To access Pete’s website, Click Here.

 

And finally, new studies confirm that one of the best ways to stay healthy is to follow a Mediterranean diet of lots of fruits, vegetables, olive oils and nuts. Dr. Richard Lee is a Professor of medicine at the Stanford University School of Medicine, and he will be our guest to analyze the pros and cons of such a diet. Check his website by Clicking Here.  So a full agenda, and we sure you to listen and to check your local listings for times and stations. See you on the radio.

Here is the latest publication from The Lisburn Press that is creating a lot of excitement in the literary world.  Thunderbolt tells the story of a young Louisiana priest is on the fast track for promotion up the chain of authority in the Catholic Church, when he is embraced by a clandestine group of influential bishops from across the United States. The group is working on a viable plan to persuade the Vatican leadership to open for discussion three subjects that have been sacrosanct within the Catholic Church for centuries.

The novel weaves a suspenseful tale that raises such questions as the relevancy ofThe celibacy requirement for priests, the limitation of the priesthood to males, and the need for a changing roll of women in the church.  And it’s also a love story,  Wow! It’s a great read and a wonderful Christmas present.  You can find out more and order the book by Clicking Here.

What is it with these politicians bringing in outside officials to tell us how to vote? Then the problem gets compounded with the flooding of the airwaves paid for by out of state special interest money. Can’t voters in all states make up their own minds without this outside influence? I guess candidates think voters are too dumb to make up their own minds, and need help from vested interests all over America. I say Malarkey. Leave us alone, keep your tainted money and quite telling in state voters how to vote! That’s the focus of my new column now posted. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

Our Thanksgiving Weekend program is all lined up with a busy schedule of guests and topics. We will be live from New York City where the snow is supposed to come down in droves. So a good time to get into the holiday spirit. Did you shop on Black Thursday? No, not Friday, but Thursday?   Are there any days left for family togetherness? We will talk about it.

 

The Keystone pipeline continues to dominate news up in Washington as Congress tries to one up the president’s hand. What’s all this controversy about? We will talk with Bill O’Keefe, CEO of the Marshal Institute that concentrates on energy issues. You can read about his activities at www.marshell.org.

 

Then we will talk about good health with Dr. James Pinckney out of Dallas. He’s a pioneer in concierge healthcare where you pay so much a month directly to the physician with no insurance involved. Is this the wave of the future? Cut out the insurance companies? We will talk about it. Dr. James is pictured above (right) with my old friend and renowned baseball coach Larry Brown. See Dr. James’ website at www.diamondprivatephysicians.com.   So tune in for a lively show. Check local listings for times and stations.

You probably have seen the football “catch of the century” by former LSU star receiver Odell Beckham, J., now playing for the New York Giants. Those of us who followed Odell during his years playing here in Baton Rouge have seen a number of acrobatic catches. But nothing like he pulled off Sunday against the Green Bay Packers. He’s been photo shopped in a number of positions.   Too see these clever photos, Click Here. And check out this amazing catch below.

The Keystone pipeline has become an issue that now dominates the U.S. Senate race in Louisiana. It’s the where all to end all dispute, and seems to be all that the two run off candidates are talking about. Incumbent Senator Mary Landrieu(D) and challenger Dr. Bill Cassidy(R) have each tried to “one up” the other in pleading how important a Keystone pipeline is to the economic future of Louisiana. My reaction? Hogwash! The issue will not mean diddlysquat to the Bayou State. No new jobs will be created and not a dime of economic development. Read my view in my now column now posted. You can read it by going to the Flashing Red Box above, or by Clicking Here.

And if you want to see a funny take on how both Democrats and Republicans have exaggerated the fact on Keystone, take a look at Jon Stewart’s rant.  Funny and right on.

Well it’s the week before Thanksgiving, and most of the country is over and done with politics.  And thank goodness.  Well, except down in my home state of Louisiana.  We have a run off for U. S. Senator and congressional races, so us Red Necks and Cajuns will have to suffer through a few more weeks.  Will the new congress get anything done?   Don’t count on it and we will talk about it.

 And as we gear up for Thanksgiving, many are preparing to engage in a strange ritual that is consuming the traditional turkey dinner faster than we do. The ritual is the extension of Black Friday shopping into Thanksgiving Day, says international speaker John Horvat. I say a really bad idea. John has a new book called “Return to Order,“ and you can find out more about it by Clicking Here.

We are also going to examine, in great detail, dozens of current cultural trends and historical patterns that do not merely suggest, but confirm and support the theory that America, if she continues on her current trajectory, will soon cease to exist as she was founded and as we know her.  Best-selling author/U.S. historian David Barton and best-selling author and founder of the Barna Group, George Barna, will join me to discuss   their new book, “U-Turn: Restoring America to the Strength of Its Roots“.  Find out more by Clicking Here.  So join us for a lively program.  Check local listings for times and stations.

I attend a number of book fairs and festivals, particularly in the South, to publicize my publications through The Lisburn Press. What a treat a few weeks ago to be joined by the great American writer and fellow Louisianan Ernest Gaines. His works have been taught in college classrooms and translated into many languages, including French, Spanish, German, Russian and Chinese. Four of his works have been made into television movies. His 1993 novel, A Lesson Before Dying, won the National Book Critics Circle Award for fiction. Gaines has been a MacArthur Foundation fellow, and awarded the National Humanities Medal. He is a real Louisiana treasure.

Songwriter and singer Mary Gauthier came back home is week. The Baton Rouge gal gave a first-rate performance at the Red Dragon listening room, one of my favorite hangouts here along the Mississippi River her in “Red Stick.” Mary tours the country and has found fame up in Nashville, performing misty and emotion provoking songs, many that she has written. Here’s one of my favorites below, “I Drink.”  Check her out and see what you think.

Senators and governors of days past are turning over in their graves at the carrying on, or lack of thereof, by the candidates for U.S. Senate in Louisiana. Where have both incumbent democratic Senator Mary Landrieu and republican challenger Dr. Bill Cassidy been for all these months? Few voters around the state can remember seeing either candidate for years. What happened to “pressing the flesh,” and traveling all over Louisiana  to attend the large number of fairs and festivals? Is that way of politicking obsolete. NO, I say, and if you will read my new column, you will see my reasoning. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

And check out below Eddie Murphy, in the movie Brewster’s Millions, carrying on about incompetence in politics, and voting for “None of the Above.”

Weekend Radio Schedule to be posted Friday.

If you want to see just how out of whack out educational system has become, particularly in giving a basic civics education to younger voters, take a look at the video below. It will leave you scratching your heads wondering where the system went wrong. There’s got to be a better way to educate these voters. Take a look.

ROY BOOKBINDER has been singing the blues for more than 45 years. In his younger days he was a sideman to the legendary REVEREND GARY DAVIS. His brand of acoustic blues came to the attention of BONNIE RAITT with whom he toured for years. Roy went on to become a TV star on the show “Nashville Now”. Roy was in town last week at the Red Dragon Listening Room in Baton Rouge, and it was a treat to hang out with him a bit. Check out his singing style below.

The Republicans won big, and now both parties in congress are talking about crossing party lines to solve problems in the nation’s capitol. Compromise and moderation are the new Buzzwords. Real Kumbaya, right? Good luck. New studies show that voters are more extreme in their views than are their members of congress. Many voters do not want compromise. They are passionate about strong stands, particularly on a number of social issues. So will gridlock continue? Check out my new column, now posted. You can read it by going to the Flashing Red Box above, or by Clicking Here.

We will review the new political landscape as the Republicans now control both Houses of Congress. We things really change? Not in my opinion. In fact that’s the focus of my new column this week. And it’s really all about money. The unbelievable amount of tainted campaign dollars that have flooded these elections. Our guest will be Craig Holman, Public Citizen’s government affairs lobbyist for Congress Watch, a non-partisan group in Washington that keeps track of all the campaign money.

We will also go back and remember the anniversary of the tearing down of the Berlin Wall. If you are too young to remember, I have some fascinating stories to tell about my experiences cross the wall into East Germany. So a lively Sunday and we sure hope you will join us to make a little Common Sense out of the news. Check local listings for times and stations.

Just about everyone live and breathes politics down in Louisiana-right? It’s been portrayed as a way of life and part of the DNA of Cajuns and Red Necks alike. It’s pure entertainment all year round. The Bayou State must certainly have the highest rate of voter participation in the country. But surprisingly, that’s not the case.  Check out my new column, where I discuss the changing Louisiana scenario. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

What a weekend of lively radio topics coming up. It’s Halloween and the spooks are all around us. Election Day is on the countdown and we will talk about what issues have been completely ignored by politico wannabes all across the country. Will the Republican take control of the U.S. Senate? I’ll make my predictions on our Sunday program.

 Should medical marijuana be legalized across the country is it is in a number of states? It’ a big issue down here in my home state of Louisiana. And pot on the ballot in several states this November. We will talk about the myths and the reality surrounding medical marijuana with Jeffrey Feiler, founder and CEO of Grass Roots Ventures, Inc., to discuss the issues from a law and business standpoint.

 You know the president has his own chef, but did know there’s also a White House dentist!  Dr. Nicholas Toscano has had his hands in the mouths of some of the most famous smiles in the country including George W.Bush and Bill and Hilary Clinton. As the former White House periodontist, Dr. Toscano can tell your listeners how celebrities and politicians get their white smiles, the worst food and beverages that damage or discolor teeth, and surprising things that can make your breathless than stellar.  So join us for an issue packed program. Check local listening for times and stations.

Well Halloween is almost here. Are you ready? I’m a big trick or treater with the neighborhood kids coming by in droves to receive the goodies we put out. And we have lots of pumpkins. How does yours stack up? I’ll bet my pumpkin is bigger than your pumpkins!

Election Day is fast approaching, and there is a lot on the line for the politicians running, and the country as a whole. I’ve been preaching each week on my national radio show that voters should think long and hard as to whether to vote for any incumbent. If we are going to get merely the same old, same old from these guys and gals who have bogged down the country in stalemate, then maybe its time to clean house. Check out my flag and see if you agree.

Have you voted yet? People all over America are taken manage of early voting in this coming Congressional election. In my new column, I tell you about my experience in earlier this week. And how about all this controversy over needing to have a voter I.D.? Is it a real burden for some voters that keep them away from the polls? Do they have a legitimate argument? Check out my view. Plus, in Louisiana, voters have to decide on amending the state constitution. I say a big waste of time and I tell you why. So check out my new column now posted by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

It’s the countdown until the nationwide congressional Election Day on November 3^rd. Will the Republicans take over control of the U.S. Senate? Will Democrats hold their own in races across the country? And of course, underlying all these elections are so many national and international issues. Ebola has made the country forget about open warfare in many parts of the Middle East. We will talk about it all on this weekend’s “Common Sense” radio program.

 

The Evolution of a Revolutionis a new book by Lance Simmens, a 40-year senior level policy, political, and governmental expert, which contains startling and critical insight into a country hungry for change and disappointed by the very change it receives. Where can we go in the months to come to stop the gridlock all over America? You can read all about the book by Clicking Here.

 And are you thinking about getting a tattoo? Forty five million Americans have one. Why al the new wave of getting inked up? Larry Schwartz in the director of a new film, “Tattoo Nation” that gives the history of the “art of the flesh.” You can  check out the film in the trailer below. So join us for a lively show. See you on the radio.

If you are a country music fan, you certainly know and appreciate the smooth twangs of Clink Back. He’s been a big name in this music field for a number of years. I had the pleasure of hearing Clint in concert and having a nice visit before his performance this past weekend here in Baton Rouge at the L’Auberge Casino and Resort. Quite a guy, so check him out below.

Major cities in the US are sinking and are demanding action to stop the water flow. Boston is hollering that they need federal help, and may end up being the next Venice. Miami and the Everglades are asking for federal dollars. Baltimore and New York are reeling after Hurricane Sandy, and say they may be sinking. Louisiana has been saying the same thing for 30 years, yet little has really been done. What’s the price tag? 50 billion dollars! $100 billion! What on earth can we do about this mess? Are we just going to set back and get washed away? Take a look at my new column now posted. You can read it by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.  And check out Randy Newman’s song about Louisiana-They’re Goin’ a Wash Us Away.

Some weeks, we really have to work hard to come up with a full weekend show. Boy, not this weekend. We’re loaded with issues to discuss. Ebola and whether we can contain this terrible disease, ISIS, conflicts throughout the world, politics in the US, and so many other topics. With elections close at hand (just a little over two weeks away), mathematician Patrick Andendall will join jus to discuss his new book, Stupid Party, Math vs Myth-The Unmasking of the Destructive Forces Eroding American Democracy.” You can read about it by Clicking Here.

Then renowned defense attorney and Harvard Professor Alan Dershowitz will give a perspective on the Middle East and weather Israel should attack Hamas operating in Palestine. He has a new book out, Terror Tunnels: The Case for Israel’s Just War Against Hamas. He will join us in the second hour of our show, and you can read all about the Professor and his book by Clicking Here.  So check your local listing for times and stations.  See you on the radio.

My daughter Campbell, who many of you remember as the White House correspondent for NBC news as well as hosting her own show on CNN, is making a valiant effort to raise the standards of teachers throughout New York. The teachers’ unions or not holding back, and fighting her tooth and nail. For her cause, Campbell has raised money from business leaders throughout the state. The teachers unions are attacking her fund raising, rather than focusing on her concerns about their overall ability to teach. This is apparently the only issue the the teachers’ unions can attack her on.  Actually, I find the cartoon rather funny.  Take a look and enjoy.  And you  can check out Campbell’s view on educational reform in a recent speech she gave to the American Enterprise Institute in Washington, D.C.  You can listen or read the transcript by Clicking Here.

I don’t know about you, but fall is my favorite season of the year. There is nothing as pretty as seeing the leaves change up north and along the East Coast. The colors can really be brilliant. We don’t get much color down out here in the south. So I was fortunate to be up in northern Maine last week, and you can see below the colors coming out in radiant shades. I’m hoping to go up to the North Carolina mountains in a week or two, so as to see the leaves change up there also. I’ll keep you posted.  To see the brilliant color of leaves, Click Here.

Pride. That is a key catalyst for any state to be a competitor for economic development across the nation. People who live in the Bayou State generally love Louisiana. But do they have enough pride, and the commitment it takes to be attractive to those businesses that are considering locating in the deepest of the deep southern states? What are some of the important factors that may be lacking? Take a look at my new column now posted and see if you agree with some of the items I have listed. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

The “Common Sense” radio show weekend will broadcast  from Quebec, Canada, and is right around the corner and we have a really great program lined up for all our listeners across the country. There is a fascinating new documentary out called ” Six Ways to Santiago,” all about the thousands of people worldwide who make a six week excursion to walk the Camino Trail from the French border to Santiago in Spain. Upon arriving, visitors will find the burial site f St. James and one of the world’s most stunning cathedrals. The film has won  numerous awards, and we will interview director Lydia B. Smith. Check out this fascinating adventure by Clicking Here.

Then, did you know that bootleggers and Baptists have some common ground? Economists Adam Smith and Bruce Yandle provide an accessible description of how economic forces and moral persuasion interact in today’s political world. They will both be on our program and you can find out  more on their book, Bootleggers and Baptists, by Clicking Here.  So turn in for a lively show. Check local listings for times and stations. See you on the radio.

With tax dollars scarce in Louisiana, this might be an excellent time to streamline on the state and local levels. Just how many boards, commissions, water districts, sewer districts, parish auditors, law enforcement offices, and other special districts are spread throughout Louisiana? Would you believe that no agency, public or private, can list all the public bodies that exist in Louisiana today? And if no one knows that number, then it goes without saying that no one can even begin to know the overlapping costs. Should the state consider streamlining and consolidating? That’s the focus of my new column this week. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

Radio Weekend close at hand, and, as usual, we are planning a full agenda and a lively program. So much has happened in the past week. John Whitehead with the Rutherford Institute will join me to review all the freedoms that Attorney General Eric Holder has pushed to take away from every American. John has been on the program before and you can find more information on protecting hour freedoms by Clicking Here.

And what about this terrible Ebola epidemic?  kIs it a threat to the U.S.?  How does one get it and is there a cure?  We will talk abut it with Dr. Mardia Stone , who has extensively studied this miserable disease.  This and a review of the week’s controversial news.  Check your local listings for times and stations.  See you on the radio.

We’ve been following all the domestic violence that is seething out of the National Football League. But how about federal judges who are every bit as violent with their spouses, and other judges who feel that have the right to demand special consideration? There are many competent judges across the country, but there are also some real whackos that can taint the entire federal judiciary. You and I deserve better. Much, much better. Check out my new column on a wave of questionable conduct by these high and mighty jurists who get their job for life. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

Fall is in the air, but the Common Sense Radio Weekend Show won’t stop to smell the roses. We have a full program set for this Sunday’s show. Just who is this ISIS, and how big a threat are they really to U.S. citizens? Howard Bloom is a Middle East scholar who has a new book called The Mohammed Code. In it, he discusses the long and short-term consequences of ISIS. How do the powers of ISIS are different than that of al-Qaeda? And can we define the goals of ISIS? He will join us to discuss all these questions. More on the book by Clicking Here.

 

Then we will talk with Nick Yarris who as on the FBI’s Most Wanted list. He “¨shared a cell with Ted Bundy. He was on Death Row for”¨ 21 years, until DNA proved he was innocent.  Yarris escaped Death Row at age 24, “¨and was the subject of a man-hunt on the FBI’s Most”¨Wanted List. He was recaptured and later became the”¨ first inmate on death row to ask for DNA testing. It “¨took 16 years for him to be exonerated when DNA test “¨results showed he couldn’t have committed the crime he”¨was serving time for. Yarris tells his story in the new”¨book “7 Days to Live.” More on the book by Clicking Here.

 

And, as we always do, we will update you with facts, sarcasm, and humor on the week’s events. So be sure and tune in. Check your local listings for times and stations.

                                                 One of my heroes is Ida Keeling.

She’s 99 years old! NINETY NINE! She STARTED running at age 67. She just broke the record of the 100M sprint in her age group. (Can’t imagine there are too many 90 years olds competing, but nevertheless) THIS inspires me and motivates me to be the BEST I can be at ANY age. Mind you, she STARTED running at age 67, so for all of you who might think its too late, its NEVER too late!

Talk about an ingrate. At the 2014 Texas Tribune Festival, George P. Bush, the Republican nominee for Land Commissioner, said he wouldn’t endorse his father, former Florida Governor Jeb Bush, should he decide to run for president in 2016. He himed and hawed, then said he wouldn’t endorse anyone. Hey George!  It’s YOUR FATHER! What kind of politician wouldn’t ben support his own dad, particularly when Jeb Bush is a pretty darn good potential candidate. If he hasn’t the gumption to support his own Dad, he needs to quite running for public office.  Plus, if you look at the video below, he looks and talks like a wimp.

So are we in America about to open up a whole new chapter in the Middle Eastern war saga? What has eleven years in Iraq taught us, at a cost of some seven trillion dollars and who knows how many people killed. How big a threat is this barbarian group ISIS? It was terrible the killings they did to American journalists. But are we operating with our emotions or a plan for our own safety? There are way too many questions that need answering, both by the President as well as members of congress. Take a look at my new column where I list a number of questions that, so far, we as Americans have received no answers. You can read the column now by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

Radio Weekend is about here, and we look forward to having you join us if you can to make a little “Common Sense” about the world around us. How much more do we get involved in the Middle East? We spent some seven trillion dollars in Iraq and Afghanistan and what do we have to show for it? Should America jump into the Syrian civil war? And how big a threat is ISIS? We will talk about it.

 

Then, we will talk about a new book about what it would be like if you didn’t age; “NO TIME TO DIE“ By Kira Peikoff. Science has barely begun to unlock the secrets written in our DNA. Researchers are relentlessly hunting for the answers to chronic diseases, cancer, rare disorders and the biggest mystery of them all””aging””but at what cost? Bioethicist Peikoff asks the most troubling scientific question of our time in this taut thriller: when does medicinecross the line? Read more about this book by Clicking Here.

 

Then we must talk more about the Middle East.  Don Liebich is a non-partisan Middle East foreign policy expert and the author of ‘Fault Lines: The Layman’s Guide to Understanding America’s Role in the Ever-Changing Middle East‘.  Read all about it by Clicking Here. See you on the radio.

One of the most enjoyable jobs I had when I was in public life in Louisiana, was serving for eight years as the Secretary of State. Is it important job, dealing with handling the entire election process, being the state’s chief historian and keeper of all the state archives, and being the top business officer. That’s been over 25 years ago, and I’ve watched other Secretary of State’s come and go. The current secretary, my good friend Tom Schedler, has done excellent job. I hosted a reception for him this past week in Baton Rouge with a number of others who support Tom.

Can you believe that the top five happiest cities in the U. S. include Lafayette, Houma, Shreveport, Baton Rouge and Alexandria and Lake Charles are all located in Louisiana? I know we Red Necks and Cajuns have a good time and all, but is the rest of the nation not letting the good times roll like we do down in the Bayou State? The unhappiest? New York City. What? The Big Apple? How can that be? Check out my new column just published with all the inside scoop as to who’s happy and who’s not so happy. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

Radio “Common Sense” weekend is close at hand and we have full show of controversial issues to discuss. Welcome again to our new Fairbanks, Alaska station KFAR, 660 AM.  This is really the “Last Frontier” so we are glad you folks “North to Alaska” as the song goes will join us.  And what about the President and his slowness in reacting to the bloodshed in a number of countries. How far should the U.S. go? Is Obama offering solid leadership? Tune in and we will talk.

 

Author Sidney Powell joins us to discuss the continuing cover-ups by the Justice Department and the IRS. Her book, Licensed to Lie-Exposing Corruption in the Department of Justice, is a tell all about prosecutors who are flat out of control. Read all about her book by Clicking Here.

Then we will end with author Mathew Burrows, a 25 year CIA veteran, who pent ten years at the National Intelligence Council (NIC), analyzing the most pressing challenges facing our world. His book, THE FUTURE, DECLASSIFIED, lays bare all that is at stake for America’s standing in the world, and for ordinary Americans who want to maintain their quality of life in the face of unprecedented change. Read more by Clicking Here.   So tune in for a lively show.

There’s always something special about attending a major-league baseball game. Those of you that read this column regularly know that I’m a diehard at spring training each year over in Florida to see a number of major league baseball teams. Last week, I had the pleasure of taking in the Boston Red Sox at their home field in Fenway Park up in Boston. They were playing the Toronto Blue Jays. You can check me out at Fenway Park above. And I’m also pictured with Toronto relief pitcher Erin Loupe, who hails from Hahnville, Louisiana. We had lunch in Boston before he headed to Fenway, and pitched several innings in relief. The baseball season is coming to an end, but I certainly will be over in Florida for spring training in 2015.

Have you taken the ice bucket challenge yet? People everywhere can be seen dumping buckets of ice water on their heads to raise awareness and funds to fight ALS. Children, adults and celebrities alike are joining the social media phenomenon to fight back against a disease that currently has no cure. I took the challenge twice in on day. I’ll challenge each one of you viewers to take up my challenge and make a donation. You can find out how to give by Clicking Here.

Was there something unique as to what happened in Ferguson, Missouri recently? Obviously, there was a major breakdown in communication and leadership, from just about everyone involved. And I mean everyone,  from the President, the Governor and all the others involved in this killing.  How about all those who jumped to conclusions? And are  other communities ripe for a similar outbreak of violence? Check out my new column now posted. You can read it by going to the Flashing Red Box above or by Clicking Here.

Common Sense Radio Weekend is at hand and we really have a great program set for our listeners all over America. And we do want to welcome a new addition to the “Common Sense” network of stations. KFAR 660am in Fairbanks, Alaska is our newest affiliate. Glad you are part of our network of stations. We note it’s in the 50s in Fairbanks right now. We look forward to talking and hearing from you folks way up north.

 

My column this weekend is about Ferguson, Mo. Could the same thing happen in your community? We will talk about it. And great news! Our President has decided to end his 16 day vacation and go back to work. Syria, Isis, Ferguson immigration crisis, and the Israeli – Palestine fighting was not enough to keep him off the golf course. We will sure have some comments.

 

And what are exorcisms and are they still going on in the Catholic Church? Author William Brazzel has written about them in his new book, “The Seventh Holy Man. Read more by Clicking Here. Then we will continue a religious theme as author Chelsen Vicari will talk about her book, “Distortion.”  (See by Clicking Here.)  Are politics, particularly from the Christian left, twisting the Gospel? We will talk about all this and much more. So join us. See you on the radio.

So are you happy with the job your congressmen and senators are doing up in the nation’s capitol? Most Americans are not, as congress has an all time disapproval rating at 10% favorable. Those 10% must have been living in a hole. So you want to do something about it and protest? You can, and right now. Check out the flag that flies on my front porch at my home in Baton Rouge. That’s right! It says: “IN THE FALL, FIRE “˜EM ALL! If you want one, and who wouldn’t, you can order one now by Clicking Here.

I’m not a big sitcom TV watcher, but I do watch the Emmys for best performances each year. Seth Meyers hosted the Emmys, and I thought did a first rate job with his low-key humor. One of the funniest bits was his on the street interviews joined by his friend Billy Eikner. Take a look.

Louisiana’s U.S. Senate race has become a real knock down free for all. Incumbent Mary Landrieu is in the fight of her political life as Red State Louisiana becomes more republican. So can the Lady pull it off? Not out of the question, but in this current campaign, Landrieu has often been her own worst enemy. She seems to stumble by her own making weekly and Election Day is getting close. Take a look at my new column that weighs in on Landrieu’s chances. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

A jam-packed schedule is lined up for this Sunday’s “Common Sense” radio program. Will the President ever decide to come home form his vacation while the world seems to be going up in flames? We will take about it. Then cancer expert Bill Henderson will offer some ideas about alternative medicines. Educational expert Dara Feldman is not happy with how we teach our kids in elementary and high school, and neither are we. We will listen to her thoughts about a major makeover. And Pulitzer Prize winner Alison Lurie Thinks Buildings Say a Whole Lot About Us. “Your house can tell others whether you’re happy or well organized or friendly””even what your politics are.” Didn’t know that did you? So tune and give a listen. We will see you on the radio.

Do you remember the singing group, The Subdudes, who were so popular back in the70s and 80s? Lead singer Tommy Malone still tours and is still quite a performer. He was in my hometown of Baton Rouge last week at the Red Dragon Listen Room. Check out Tommy and the Subdudes on the David Letterman Show some years back. I can tell you. His voice hasn’t changed one bit.

Energy production has been a mainstay of the Gulf Coast states, particularly in Louisiana, for well over a half a century. Actor Jimmy Steward echoed the prevailing view in his 1950s movie, “Thunder Bay,” when he told the oil production naysayers: “There’s oil under this Gulf. We need it. Everybody needs it. Without oil, this country of ours would stop and start to die.“ OK, we do need lots of fossil fuel. But what’s the trade off? Did Louisiana make a deal with the devil and accept significant bad consequences with all the royalty money rolling in? Check out my new column that discusses this very issue now posted. You can read it by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

So are you happy with the job your congressmen and senators are doing up in the nation’s capitol? Most Americans are not, as congress has an all time disapproval rating at 10% favorable. Those 10% must have been living in a hole. So you want to do something about it and protest? You can, and right now. Check out the flag that flies on my front porch at my home in Baton Rouge. That’s right! It says: “IN THE FALL, FIRE ‘EM ALL! If you want one, and who wouldn’t, you can order one now by Clicking Here.

If you want to read about a remarkable young man, look over the business success story of my nephew, Gary Solomon, Jr. It seems like no major sporting or entertainment spectacle takes place anywhere in the country without the Solomon group being involved. The Essence Festival, the Superbowl, the NBA All-star game, and major conventions nationwide are more and more calling on Gary Jr. Take a look at the article below to give you an idea of Gary’s impact on the entertainment industry. What a future he has in store. Read more by Clicking Here.

Former President Richard Nixon resigned in disgrace 40 years ago this week, as Watergate brought him down. He did it to himself by taping all his office conversations. But is the Watergate scandal his only lasting legacy? I met Nixon on two different occasions, and I take a look back in my new column. He had fond memories of my home state of Louisiana. You can read all about my thoughts on the 37^th President by going to the Flashing Red Box above, or by Clicking Here.

And below is a photo of my introducing the former Vice President at Tulane Law School in 1966.

Weekend Radio is close at hand and we have a lot to talk about this weekend. Stations coast to coast, so check local listings for times and stations carry our program. Or you can listen live over the Genesis Communications Network by going to the Genesis box on the upper left side of this website. We will try to make some sense about the past week’s news. Common Sense is often had to find with those who are supposed to be looking out for us in the nation’s capitol.

Can robots play a major role in caring for and communicating with senior citizens who need constant care? Dr. Louise Aronson, University of California professor and practicing physician will join us to discuss that benefits for future robot use. Her book is called “A History of the Present Illness,” and you can read more about it by Clicking Here.

Then Marc Dunkelman joins us to discuss his new book, The Vanishing Neighbor, where he shows how the traditional web of relationships that makes up American life is undergoing fundamental change, why it matters, and what we need to do about it. You can read all about Mark’s book by Clicking Here.  So join us on the radio.

Well if you have not been following the major educational debate taking place from coast to coast, daughter Campbell is leading the charge for change in the teacher tenure laws. And boy has she stirred things up. Check out her appearance below on The Colbert Report, and then the comments in support of Campbell’s efforts by Whoopee Goldberg. Then you can read some of the national press she is receiving.  Click Here to read the latest from The New York Times, and Click Here for recent article in the Rochester News.

Lynn Drury is a New Orleans gal that has been apart of the Southern music scene much longer than her young looks let on. She has a great southern outlaw flare with music that is soulful and that reflects a tough life-Maybe Mississippi grit. I enjoyed her concert last week in Baton Rouge at the Red Dragon Listening Room, my regular weekend stop. Take a listen. Her website is found by Clicking Here.

So what’s up in the Louisiana U.S. Senate race? Can you believe that not many voters like any of the candidates? Incumbent Democrat Mary Landrieu has to deal with the President as an anchor around her neck, and Republican Bill Cassidy seems to only know how to say NO. Tea Party candidate Rob Maness seems lost in the shuffle. This race, the last to be held in the nation, has voters shaking their heads. So is there an alternative? Maybe. Check out my new column now posted. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

Radio Weekend is at hand, and there sure will be a lot to discuss this Sunday. Is the president lost his way and out of touch? The world is in chaos, and he and his family are leaving for a 16-day vacation to Martha’s Vineyard. Oh, I know it’s a “working vacation.” But the perception stinks. Stay home in the White House and do your job Mr. President. We will discuss.

 

You’ve probably heard of the term “fracking” and have a foggy understanding that it has something to do with extracting natural gas from the ground. But are there bad consequences? We will talk with engineer and environmentalist Greg Kozera.

The Bible contains some remarkable stories of miracles”¨and divine interventions. Are these types of events still”¨happening today? Daniel Fazzina, author and host”¨of the long-running radio show Divine Intervention, will be our guest. His book is called “Divine Intervention: 50″¨True Stories of God’s Miracles Today,” and you can find out more about it by Clicking Here.

And finally, the Isreali-Palesine crisis will be discussed. Danny Muller focuses on disaster management and response in the Middle East and Haiti. He says, “What can’t be seen or understood in the pictures and reporting coming out of Gaza is the long term impact the most recent Israeli assault is having on the young minds of children in Gaza. ” Is his analysis correct?  Tune in to see what you think.  So join us.

Well, daughter Campbell has not slowed down a bit in her quest to dramatically improve public education in New York. She is presently heading up an effort to dramatically revise teacher tenure rules, and hold wayward teachers much more accountable. She is the force behind a new lawsuit that challenges a number of present rules and regulations. The lawsuit asserts that three years isn’t enough time to determine whether a teacher should receive tenure; takes issue with the lengthy disciplinary process required to dismiss teachers, opposes the “last in, first out” statute that privileges senior teachers during layoffs, and takes aim at the state’s teacher evaluation system. To read all about her efforts, Click Here.

David Eagan has been around singing at concerts and Listening Rooms through the South and Midwest for many years. He’s a talented singer, a great storyteller and first-rate musician. I’ve heard him on several occasions and he’s quite a guy. Please keep David and his family in your thoughts and prayers. I was informed yesterday that his cancer has returned and that he has entered hospice care. Such a talented man.   What a tragedy.

The death penalty is rarely enforced anymore, and there is a good reason. It seems a week does not go by in the U.S. where some convict sitting on death row has good lawyers who turn up evidence of prosecutorial misconduct. There have been convicts here in my home state of Louisiana who have comes within days of being executed, and later found to be innocent. And in way too many instances, rogue prosecutors in both the state and federal system withheld evidence of their innocence from their lawyers. New Orleans is particularly a cesspool of prosecutors who purposely hide exculpatory evidence. So what gives? Check out my new column now posted about this real miscarriage of justice. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

The weekend is closing in, and there is so much going on in the news for us to talk about on the Common Sense Weekend program. We were not able to connect, because of international transmission problems, with our guest David Dellit. He will be on our show this weekend to continue our discussion: it necessary to believe in God in order to be a good, moral person? Unlike the rest of the industrialized countries surveyed by the Pew Research Center, the majority of people in the United States say yes ““ a belief in God is necessary to be good and moral.  David is the author of “The Valentine Prophecies,” (www.thevalentineprophecies.com.  He will join us live from Australia.

 Then we will go to the weekly news and so much controversy to discuss. Was Gov. Rick Perry right to call out the National Guard to try and control the Texas-Mexican border? Should Israel have invaded Palestine strongholds in Gaza and the West Bank? What does the U.S. do about the renewed aggressiveness of Russia? The list grows long. So be sure and join us. Check your local listings for times and stations in your area. See you on the radio.

Ray Bonneville, a great southern blues singer, came to my hometown this past week for a solo concert at the Red Dragon. I’ve heard Ray perform on several occasions. He stops the rhythm with both feet, plays the harmonica, and is a first rate guitar picker. Below is a song about New Orleans.

I hope to have all the energy you can see in this delightful older gentleman in the video below. I certainly agree with the premise that you are only as old as you feel. Seeing him on the dance floor, he still has a lot of living to do. Take a look.

Must be some big weather problems a comin’ down in the Bayou State.  Just has to be.  Why else would Louisiana property owners be stuck with sky rocketing insurance rates?  The state’s biggest insurer, State Farm, just went ahead and raised their rates on homes by as much of 20%.  What?  How can that be?  Check out my new column that tries to figure out what’s happening, and why the same increases are not taking place around the rest of the country.  You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or Clicking Here.

Weekend Radio is fast approaching and we have a lively and active full-blown program for our listeners. There is so much in the news.  But how about this topic?  Is it necessary to believe in God in order to be a good, moral person? Unlike the rest of the industrialized countries surveyed by the Pew Research Center, the majority of people in the United States say yes ““ a belief in God is necessary to be good and moral.  Do you agree?  We will talk with David Dellit, author of “The Valentine Prophecies,” (www.thevalentineprophecies.com.  He will join us live from Australia.

The Middle East conflicts are moving west to Israel and Palestine, as warfare could well be close at hand.   Joshua Muravchik will join us who is author of Making David into Goliath: How the World Turned Against Israel, to help discuss this growing and troubling problem. Find out more by Clicking Here. So join us for an informative program.

I’m just amazed at the number of drivers who look down at cell phones, text, read email, all while they are driving.  Our smart phones have led to a dramatic increase in a number of highway deaths.  The video below is a chilling reminder of how irresponsible a driver can be.  Take a look.  It’s important.

The Wasington Post  published an in-depth article this week about daughter Campbell’s major battle with teacher’s unions in New York and her personal crusade to bring major changes to public education.  The article is well balanced, and worth a read.  You can see it by Clicking Here.

Your heart has to go out to the poor average Joe living in New Orleans.  The Crescent City is in a battle to stay afloat as it deals with major street crime, corrupt politicians, and a dysfunctional criminal justice system where even federal officials can no longer be trusted.  And the murder rate, actually the terrorist attack rate, seems to be continually climbing.  I wrote about the dysfunction taking place in one of America’s great cities this week.  What to do?  Check out my new column now posted.  You can read it now by going to the Flashing Red Box above, or by Clicking Here.

The Weekend Radio schedule will be posted on Friday.

Special holidays like the 4^th of July always have, for good reason, a special acknowledgement of those military service men and women who have defended our country for so many years.  There are few veterans in congress today.  Most politicians reflect the comment of former Vice President Dick Cheney, who, when asked why he did to volunteer for the military, said he had “other priorities.”Â  They don’t think it’s all that important to serve one’s country.  Spoken like a true chicken hawk.  I’m proud of my military service.  The Army and the National Guard for 12 years.  From time to time, I get out my old uniform (it still fits).  Take a look at the moving video below about being proud of military service.

The rest of the nation has been grumbling for years over the massive federal bailouts that seem to go to hurricane prone states along the Gulf Coast year after year.  “Maybe those folks down there should pack up and move,” some Yankees have suggested.  But oh how the debate has changed.  Wildfires out west, tornadoes in the Midwest, flooding up the Mississippi River, earthquakes a continuing threat, and heavy storms back east.  Now the entire country is beginning to realize that there is no insolation from natural disasters.  So what to do?  I just might have a few ideas.  Checkout my new column now posted on how to deal with this growing problem.  You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

Even though this is the 4thof July Weekend, we have prepared a full packed, lively program for our listeners.  I’ll be broadcasting from New York City and hope to meet a good number of our listeners who catch our program over WVNJ, 1160 AM in New York City as well as stations WPPG, 1400 AM and WENJ, both in Atlantic City.  We have a gumbo of topic, including immigration, the meaning of the 4^th of July, this week’s Supreme Court Decision on contraceptives, a little religion, and much more.  So be sure and tune in.  Check local listings for times and stations.  See you on the radio.

A musician named Dave Carroll recently had difficulty with United Airlines.  Dave spent over 9 months trying to get United to pay for damages caused bybaggage handlers to his custom Taylor guitar.  During his final exchange with the United Customer Relations Manager, he stated that he was left with no choice other than to create a music video for YouTube exposing their lack of cooperation. The Manager responded: “Good luck with that one, pal.” So he posted a retaliatory video on YouTube. The video has since received over 6 million hits. United Airlines contacted the musician and attempted settlement in exchange for pulling the video. Naturally his response was: “Good luck with that one, pal.” Taylor Guitars sent the musician 2 new custom guitars in appreciation for  the product recognition from the video  that has led to a sharp increase in orders. Check out the video below.

What Would America Be Like If We Lost The Revolutionary War?  The Brits are still smoldering over their loss and our yearly efforts to “rub it in.”Â  Since I was in school in England (Cambridge University), I had a jolly ole’ time rubbing it in, but my British friends didn’t think it was all that funny.  So, just what would it be like?  The Brit will tell you to imagine how great America would have been if Great Britain won the Revolutionary War.  Take a look at this tongue in cheek video below.

Twenty-Eight years ago this week, President Ronald Reagan traveled to West Berlin, and at the Brandenburg Gate admonished: “Mr.Gorbachev take down that wall.”Â  The Berlin Wall had been erected by the puppet soviet state of East Germany. Unless you are over sixty five or are a history buff, you may not understand the tensions that existed then had many observers feeling that we could be on the brink of war with the Soviet Union.  And would you believe?  I crossed that wall and almost caused an international incident.  Check out my new column by Clicking on the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.