Public frustration seems to be boiling over as the November 2^nd election approaches.  Is there a candidate anywhere in the country that is addressing the issues that are drowning America in red ink and more debt?  My new column cites a number of examples where both Republicans and Democrats have missed the boat on what is important to the average voter out there.  These wars in Iraq and Afghanistan are costing the country more than $2 billion a week.  A week.  Does anyone know this?  And what do we have to show for it.  I’m pictured below with Ahmed Chalabi, who is the leader of the Iraqi National Congress and former Deputy Prime Minister of Iraq.  You will be startled to read what he has to say. Check out the column by Clicking Here.

In several columns, I have written about the Black Swan theory.    In ancient literature, a black swan was a proverbial phrase for something extremely rare or nonexistent.  How to assess risk is a key problem along the Gulf when it comes to figure the odds of oil spills and hurricanes. Professor Nassim Taleb has a New York Times best seller entitled “The Black Swan:  The Impact of the Highly Improbable.” We could use him on the Gulf Coast to educate our public officials about too little planning for disasters and assuming too much risk.  We talked about this in Washington last week.  (To see my column on the Black Swan and the gulf oil spill, Click Here.)

Senator Jim Webb from Virginia was a combat Marine in Viet Nam, and has written nine books.  The Atlantic Magazine named him one of the world’s 27 “Brave Thinkers,” and he has a strong commitment to protecting America’s security interests.  He expressed the same concern over the massive spending in the Middle East with so little return that I wrote about in this week’s column.

Charlie Cook is the political insider’s guru in Washington, D.C.  The Cook Political Report is a must read for all who traverse Capitol Hill, and Charlie has become one of the most respected political observers in the country.  He happens to be from Shreveport, and our mothers played bridge together for many years.   Charlie and I both participated in the Washington Ideas Forum sponsered by the Atlantic Magazine last week in Washington.  Instead of being a Washington Big Shot, he tells me he would much rather be back home in Louisiana.  Charlie will be a guest of my radio show the Sunday beforwe the big November 2nd election.

With a major national election just a month away, the stakes continue to get higher. Will the republicans regain control of congress, and will the President have his hands tied on major policy decisions for the next two years? Every major spending issue, the cost of the war, the national debt and healthcare can trace a viable solution to educational reform. A well-educated workforce is the key to pulling the country out of the present economic doldrums. But in election contests nationwide, and particularly in my home state of Louisiana, improving public education is rarely, if ever, mentioned as a campaign issue. Check out my new column and see what you think. You can read it now by Clicking Here.

The new rising political star in the Republican Party “has dabbled in witchcraft.” So maybe tea Party candidate Christine O’Donnell has cast a spell over her coverts.  That’s about the only logical reason to explain the “off the wall” pinball effect of the GOP embracing a quagmire of diversionary issues that keep a responsible political agenda out of whack.  Take a look at my new column now posted to see my thoughts on the challenges for Republicans in the coming weeks.  You can read it now by Clicking Here.

Well now we know.  It’s voodoo.  That’s what’s happened to many Republican candidates.  A spell has been cast, I guess.  Instead of focusing on spending and the economy, many Republicans are all over the wall on social issues.  a message to all the candidates.  Most of us want the outrageous spending to stop…then just leave us alone.  Christine O’Donnell is the big upset winner in the Deleware US Senate race last week, and she has practiced  Witchcraft! Here is what she says:  “One of my first dates with a witch was on a satanic altar, and I didn’t know it,” she said. “I mean, there’s a little blood there and stuff like that. We went to a movie and then we had a little midnight picnic on a satanic altar.”  Our kind of gal…right?  Here she is on and old Bill Maher  show talking about her mystic exploits.

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SO REGGIE BUSH GIVES THE HEISMAN BACK?

BIG DEAL!

Reggie Bush gave up his Heisman trophy this week.  If you don’t know anything about him, Bush is the star running back for the NFL’s Superbowl Champion New Orleans Saints.  Someone needs to tell Reggie he is doing us no favors.  He repeatedly broke the rules.  And he is a terrible example for kids all over the country who aspire to play college sports. And how does LSU great Billy Cannon fit in?  Take a look at my column about the Bush saga of disappointment by Clicking Here.

Eat your heart out fellas.  That’s Kathleen Turner “hangin’ out” with me a few years back.  Who can forget her sizzling performance in “Body Heat?”Â  If you missed it, take a look at one of her tamer scenes below.  Actually, she is a real basic down to earth gal from central Missouri.  I was born and reared for a number of years in the “Show Me” state, so we had a lot to talk about.  You can see a scene from “Body Heat” below.

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One of the most energetic and talented fellows I have ever met also happens to be the basketball coach with the most wins in LSU’s history.  Coach Dale Brown is an icon in the basketball world having honed his playing and coaching skills in his native North Dakota.  Thanks to Coach Brown, I’m a die hard basketball fan, and have season tickets for LSU basketball on the front row. A number of locals almost talked Coach Brown into running for congress a few years ago.  I was ready to write him a check, and I wish he would have run, for the country would have been better for it.  We have been friends for many years, and we often get together to solve the world’s problems.

When Bill Clinton was on the defensive, back in his first presidential run in 1992, the Democratic message was all over the map. At a time when the country was stuck with staggering economic woes, Louisiana’s own national political commentator James Carville stated the obvious:   “It’s the Economy stupid!”The Ragin’ Cajun got the nation on point then, and the Democrats and Republicans need to stop bobbing and weaving and get on  point now.  Jim Brown takes a look at the looming economic crisis in this week’s column now posted.  You can read it by Clicking Here.

You can see the “Ragin’ Cajun himself talking about the economy in the video below.

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The political pyromaniacs are on the loose in the nation’s capitol, with both parties pandering to their respective bases.  Little concern for a large pile of national problems-the economy, healthcare, Afghanistan, Iraq, job creation. .  All the rhetoric from both parties seems to be exclusively focused on the “ground Zero mosque.”Â  Is the controversy really all that important?  Check out my new column now posted on this controversial subject by Clicking Here.

A downtown Manhattan blogger with a camera strolled around the Ground Zero two block periphery and snapped some photos of the “hallowed ground” many political leaders  say the proposed Cordoba community center and mosque will defile. It may not be a matter of the law, or Constitutional rights to free expression, some  lawmakers  are saying. . Taking a stand against the mosque is taking a stand for decency.  So let’s take a look at how “decent” the area is.

The New York Dolls gentleman’s strip club an off-track betting parlor and fast food holes apparently pass the decency test.  So below are a summery of what all this “hallowed ground looks like.

Well sad to say, my candidate for Tennessee Governor, Basil Marceaux, did not make the cut.  Sad, because what a governor he would have made.  Basil is the guy I talked about on several occasions.  He referred to himself as “BasilMarceaux.com” when not referring to himself as “an international Internet celebrity and an international superstar and a dark-star candidate.”  My kind of guy. Basil was a guest on the Jimmy Kimmel Show recently, and you will love him.  Take a look below.  And you can read more about my man Basil by Clicking Here.

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Former Senator Ted Stevens was able to weather a number of difficult challenges in his life, but the clock finally ran out on the 86 year old Alaskan. He had survived as the federal government did its best (or maybe it’s worst) in trying to destroy his political career in a most unsavory way. But the southwestern Alaska wilderness took its toll, and a second plane crash took his life on a rocky mountainside this week. Former LSU Chancellor Sean O’Keefe lived and has much to be thankful for. But he got a bad shake at LSU. Take a look at Jim’s observations in his new column now up. You can read it by Clicking Here.

I’ve always had a lot of respect for Steve Wynn, who single handedly revitalized Las Vegas, and is building casinos in Asia now.  I happened to run into him when he opened the Wynn hotel a few years back.  When heard I was from Louisiana, he told me frankly how the state had really missed the boat in bring in casino gambling.  “New Orleans could have been second only to Las Vegas, and the biggest tourist stop in the nation,” I remember him saying.

  He has always been a blunt, opinionated guy.  And he sure is so today about how the country is being run. Note that he does not blame just one party, but accuses both Republicans and democrats of not using Common Sense.  It’s worth listening to him.

Have you ever soared up in the sky in a hot air balloon? It’s amazing how quite it becomes, and how much more vibrant all the colors appear. I had the chance with my son to take a balloon ride last weekend at the Baton Rouge Balloon Festival. In spite of the heat, it was quite trip. Take a look and come along with me for a ride.

        

Remember the 50s rock group, The Cowsills?  Hair, Rain and many other mega hits.  Then they disappeared.  Well the youngest member, Susan, has a solo act that was in Baton Rouge at the Red Dragon Listening Room last week.   I was in the number, and that’s Susan pictured with me above.  She has quite a haunting voice.  Give a listen to her New Orleans interpretation of post Katrina.

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(photo above, Lake Charles Councilman Stewart Weatherford, club Prez Hardy Parkinson and Jim)

Jim Brown: Insurance Louisiana’s No. 1 problem

BY MIKE JONES AMERICAN PRESS (August 9th, 2010)

The high cost of insurance is Louisiana’s No. 1 problem, Jim Brown, former state insurance commissioner and secretary of state, told the South Lake Charles Optimist Club on Monday.

    “Louisiana pays $3 billion more than the national average for insurance,” Brown told club members, who met at Seafood Palace. That $3 billion, Brown said, leaves the state and hurts the Louisiana economy by making it more costly to do business here. Insurance costs weren’t specifically mentioned as a factor in the decision to close Avondale Shipyard in the New Orleans area, but it was likely a consideration, he said. Avondale is moving resources to Mississippi because insurance costs are a lot less there “” and in other surrounding states, Brown said.

    He criticized the Legislature for not taking up any major insurance reform bills in its last regular session, saying the topic isn’t “a front burner issue.” Since he left public service, Brown said, he’s gotten into book publishing, writes a column and recently became the host of a nationally syndicated radio talk show. He said the show, which airs 9-11 a.m. Sunday, can be heard on his website, www.jimbrownla.com.

    Brown said the impression he’s gotten from callers is that there is little sympathy for the state over the Deepwater Horizon disaster because there was too much “doom and gloom” talk from Louisiana politicians.  He said Louisiana seafood is safe to eat, but that people in other parts of the country have gotten the impression that it isn’t. Brown said his daughter, Campbell Brown, who works for CNN, has told him that some restaurants in New York City advertise that they don’t serve Louisiana seafood.

    “Sometimes I think we overreact, both about the good and the bad,” he said.He said Louisiana politicians have been too critical of the Obama administration over the deepwater drilling moratorium. Brown said the state still needs the cooperation of Obama even if he isn’t popular here. Brown predicted the moratorium would be over within a few weeks.

    

It’s time that everyone in America speaks English.  No exceptions. That’s the buzz phrase in many political campaigns this fall.  In Alabama, the leading candidate for governor looks into the camera and says:  “We speak English so if you cannot speak English or refuse to speak English, get out of Alabama and our country.”  OK, so maybe government should only communicate in English.  But what about your freedom of choice?  Why should the government or anyone mess with your right to speak in any way you please?  Humm! Take a look at my column now posted and see if you agree.  You can read it now by Clicking Here.

Or take a look below about how everyone speaks English, and what happensz when you do. 

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LSU Football Coach Les Miles may know a lot about football (though he needs a darn good season this year to prove it), but he probably should not be the Louisiana spokesman for explaining all the damage caused by the current Gulf Oil spill.  Here is an interview with Miles by a national radio show.  Would you pick the Coach to be your spokesman?

Click Here to listen to the Interview!

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The “Rally for Economic Survival,” organized and orchestrated by the oil industry drew thousands to the Cajundome in Lafayette, Louisiana last week.  “No Moratorium” and “Drill baby Drill” were the T-shirt slogans of the day.  State officials made no bones about their willingness to have an open slugfest with the federal government.   All well and good, and there are certainly logical arguments against a long-term moratorium in the Gulf.  Perception is critical when any state is trying to take on the feds.  So is Louisiana being “perceived” as hollering wolf too much?

Take a look at Jim’s new column about this touchy and controversial subject.  You can read it now by Clicking Here.

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Daughter Campbell Brown  says goodbye to CNN viewers after several years hosting her nightly show.  I’m glad she is moving on to new projects, but you can understand that as a Dad, it was nice to tune in each evening and check up on my kid to be sure she is eating well and taking care of herself.   You can watch her CNN goodbye below.

So you live in Tennessee and you have to make you choice as to who to vote for in the coming governor’s race”¦right?  Well you certainly need to take a look at the people’s choice, Basil Marceaux.  I have a friend who lives in Tennessee and say that Marceaux is a cinch to win.  Take a look at his commercial below and see what you think.

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Louisiana has produced one of the top tennis coaches in the nation.  He is called Coach Red by the hundreds of great athletes he has coached over the years. Coach David “Red” Ayme, starred as a top player himself at Nichols State University, then went on to join legendary coach Nick Bollettieri where you find the premier sports training academy in the country.  I go down to Bradenton, Florida each March during baseball spring training for my own weekly “tune up.”Â  That’s the coach and me above, and check out the article about his exploits by Clicking Here.  And one of his premier talents is Maria Sharapova, one of the world’s top tennis players.  As you can see, I gave her a few pointers below.

The present financial disaster in Louisiana has cost the Louisiana economy almost three billion dollars. Check this figure again.  Not three million, or 300 million, but three billion dollars.  No, it’s not because of the oil spill.  The loss is worse for it’s been going on for years and there is no end to the huge losses in sight.  Check out Jim Brown’s NEW column now posted.  You can read it by Clicking here.

Remember that Jim is on the radio each morning this week at http://www.WJBO.com, 1150 am out of Baton Rouge.  And this weekend, Jim takes a lively look at the week’s major news stories on is nationally syndicated program that is heard at http://www.jimbrownla.com.

Also, Jim was interviewed this week by the voice of the broadcasting industry, RBR Cable News and BR-Radio News.  You can listen to the whole interview by Clicking Here.

I was in North Carolina last week taking in the 60 degree weather as I try to do every few months.  I’m a Chapel Hill grad, and have always had a special affinity up in the Blue Ridge Mountains.  And, of course, I had to go check up on my mountain”¦right?  I mean, everybody ought to have their own mountain like me.  I’m hangin’ out at my mountain below.  Then I was off to the Carolina beaches, and lots of questions about the Gulf oil spill.  I share my thoughts while on the beach.

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A Louisiana fisherman went to the President’s Commission to investigate the Gulf oil spill last week.  His name is Drew Landry and he gave the panel a message through a song he wrote while playing his guitar.  He represents the strong feelings of thousands of Louisianans who have been directly affected by this disaster that is devastating the Louisiana marshlands.  Take a look and listen to Drew’s message.

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Also, there is a new video our calling for a united effort to Save the Gulf.  A number of welll known faces have joined in, including Sandra Bullock, Saints quaterback Drew Brees, Lenny Kravitz, and Giants quarterback Eli Manning. Other big names appearing in the video include chefs Emeril Lagasse and Leah Chase, "Mad Men" actor Bryan Batt, actress Alfre Woodard, Indianapolis Colts quarterback Peyton Manning and musician Dave Matthews.  Take a look.

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Jim’s Common Sense has a lot to consider this Sunday. So many “off the wall” stories to discuss and review. Let’s start with Mel Gibson.  What’s up with this guy?  An international superstar that goes nuts in his private life.  Is he really trying to self destruct?  What a fall from grace for a guy that so many of us loved to watch on the movie screen.

Jim takes a close look at the new financial overhaul legislation just passed this week by Congress.  Was it necessary?  No.   Just enforce the laws that are on the books now.

And why do French women seem to age so gracefully?  Catherine Deneuve is 66?  Come on!  What are the special insights of the French “maturation” process?  Jim has some ideas.

You will love this one.  Did you know that the U.S. Government just spent $181,406 to study how cocaine enhances the sex drive or Japanese Quail?  Money well spent”¦.right?  Jim will have some strong opinions on this one.

 You can listen to his Sunday morning show live at http://www.jimbrownla.com, and on numerous stations all over America. His show is also available by podcast 24/7.

 You can also listen to Jim all next week on WJBO out of Baton Rouge, 1150 am, weekdays from 9:00 am until 11:00 am.  On the worldwide web at http://www.wjbo.com.

 And Jim’s daughter, Campbell Brown, will host her final show of The Campbell Brown hour this Wednesday, July 21^st, on CNN from 7:00pm until 8:00pm.  Jim will fly up for her last program from New York City.

 Jim will cap a busy week back in New Orleans on Saturday Night, July 24^th, where he is the keynote speaker at the annual convention of The Conservative Party USA. Jim’s evening address will take place at the Loews New Orleans Hotel.

 Full information about Jim’s future shows and appearances can be found on his website at http://www.jimbrownla.com.

 

NO NEW COLUMN THIS WEEK

JIM’S ON VACATION.

About the last thing on anyone’s mind right now, particularly in my home state of Louisiana, is whether or not Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan will be confirmed by the U.S. Senate.  It’s pretty much a “done deal,” right?  Whoever the President wants, the president gets, regardless of political party.  Oh, in the Kagan case, the republicans will throw up some half-hearted concerns about Kagan being too liberal and not enough of a “strict constructionist,” whatever that is supposed to mean.  So why should the average American care?  See what Jim has to say this week by Clicking Here.

There is amazing video of a gun battle in Afghanistan that serves as a stark reminder that freedom isn’t free. A 23 year old Brit soldier, Lance Corporal Adam Smith, was on his very first foot patrol in Afghanistan when he was struck in the head by enemy fire. He miraculously survived, and his video reminds us of what our brave men and women in the military are risking for us here at home. Read the story Here, and watch the video below.

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I’ll tell you what. It’s hard to beat politics in Alabama when it comes to gun totin’ God fearin’, patriotic candidates for congress who continually invoke the founding fathers as a way to solve all the nation’s problems. Check out the latest below from Congressional candidate Rick Barber.

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So your life is a bit dull now, and you really don’t have any interesting friends to hang out with?  You want a new pal to share your moods, keep you company and help you pass your free time?  Simple.  The internet today solves all your problems”¦right?  Now all you have to do is just “Rent a Friend!”Â  That’s right.  You can go to http://www.rentafriend.com, and find someone to hire.  So we now have to pay for friendship. You can read all about it by Clicking Here and checking out the video below.

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When the deep water Horizon well first began spurring thousands of gallons of oil into the Gulf, sympathy from around the nation poured into Louisiana.  The country and the world watched in horror as the Bayou State once again wrestled with the elements of nature and the manmade disaster that followed. But as more states become directly affected by the polluted waters, and the Louisiana political and business leadership continues to call for more drilling, national sympathies are beginning to wane. Is Louisiana pushing the envelope, and trying to have it both ways?

Jim Brown’s new column takes a look at national reaction to the spill and to what is going on down in the Bayou State.  You can read it now at by Clicking here.

July 4^th has been an important holiday but today, more and more people do not know why we actually celebrate this day. If you are not up to date on your history of the United States, July 4th, 1776 is the day that the colonies decided to declare themselves independent of Britain.
Today, we celebrate the fact that we are a free nation that is no under the rule of another. But, there is more to the celebration of independence than just the fact that this is the birthday of the United States. In fact, there are many goals and ideas that are represented in this celebration that until this day we fight for and protect around the world.

Now, having said all that, you can see in the photo below that I always wrap myself around the flag.  Doesn’t hurt that Jessica Simpson is helping me”¦..right?

And in further celebration of our Independence Day, what better way to celebrate then to watch our founding fathers, along with  Louisiana Governors Edwin Edwards anf Bobby Jindal,  “rap it up a bit.”  Take a look below.

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CBS news raised questions about Louisiana demanding federal help, but then not putting it to use. Gov. Bobby Jindal has been demanding more federal help for weeks. “We will only be winning this war when we’re actually deploying every resource,” “They (the federal government) can provide more resources” and “It’s clear the resources needed to protect our coast are still not here.”

But nearly two months after the governor requested – and the Department of Defense approved the use of 6,000 Louisiana National Guard troops – only a fraction – 1,053 – have actually been deployed by Jindal to fight the spill.  See CBS video below.

Watch CBS News Videos Online

Now look folks.  Enough is enough!  A lot of us are getting really tired of the average American being called stupid.  Welllll.  At least that applies to all my listeners here in Louisiana.  What about you?   Can you pass the test?  Take a look below.

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HELL YES!

 Roseanne Roseannadanna summed it up pretty well in trying to make sense out of the trials and tribulations of Louisiana.  “Well, it just goes to show you, it’s always something.” Now we are hearing cry’s that Louisiana is unable to take care of all its problems, and should be treated differently than other states in the U.S.  Make it a protectorate of the federal government.  And you know what?  Maybe that ain’t too bad of an idea. If you want to read up on Jim’s reasoning in his new column now posted, Click Here.

As the massive oil flow continues to spill into the Gulf, many who are affected have a blunt opinion of what needs to be done.  From the President to the average guy living and working off the Louisiana coast. Take a look and some of the thoughts being expressed below.

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Jim will be on the radio all this week from 5:00 pm until 7:00 pm at http://www.wjbo.com.  And remember his Sunday Show from 9:00 am until 11:00 am central time  heard right here on this site.

When oil companies, in pursuit of huge profits, follow unchartered paths, are they properly assessing the risk involved? The same for the Wall Street financial companies that cratered and had to be bailed out by taxpayers. Isn’t risk assessment critical for oil companies and financial institutions alike, and when does government policy actually encourage private companies to take chances that really are not justified? Jim’s new column takes a look at the tough regulatory area that is at the various basis of the BP debate. You can read his column now by Clicking Here.  And doesn’t the video below sum up the lack of properly planning on the part of BP?  Take a look.

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Outrage over BP’s role in the massive oil spill is widespread and Louisiana congressmen are known for their histrionics but Rep. Joseph Cao from New Orleans took it to a whole new level at this week’s  congressional hearing on America’s energy future featuring a lineup of the country’s top oil executives.  Other congressmen suggested that BP America CEO Lamar McKay resign.  Not Cao.  He followed the Asian tradition of”¦well, just take a look.

On my national radio show that airs each Sunday, I have a number of listeners in Utah who listen over several stations, including KHQN in Spanish Folk, Utah, and KNAK located in Delta , Utah.  One of the listeners from this region urged me to take a look at the paintings of John McNaughton, who is raising eight children and paints in Grafton, Utah. He is certainly a godfearing, dedicated American, who paints with passion, determination and exhibits a special talent.  You will be moved by this video below.

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Living down in Louisiana, I’m and outdoorsman and do enjoy fishing a god bit.  I don’t get out in the Gulf much, especially now as you can well imagine.  But I like to freshwater fish up at our family camp in St. Francisville, just north of my home here in Baton Rouge. And since my wife doesn’t fish, hey, I can appreciate the video below. Don’t tell her I posted this funny take on fishing and women.

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JIM BROWN ON THE RADIO

MONDAY, JUNE 14TH-5 to 7 pm

LISTEN LIVE at  http://www.wjbo.com

  

If one lesson can be learned from both the Gulf Oil spill and the Wall Street financial bailout debacle, it’s that oversight by competent regulators is critical to protect the public. The current and ongoing oil spill disaster points once again to the fact that there is a wretched epic of “regulatory” failure. There is plenty of blame to aim at both major political parties.  The Demodon’ts and the Republican’ts have both shown, time and time again, an inability to put teeth into a system of public protection.   Jim Brown’s New column, now posted takes a critical look at a system that has been out of whack for decades.  You can read it now by Clicking Here.

As many of you know, I’m a diehard baseball fan.  I go to spring training in Tampa, Florida every year.  I was in Busch Stadium in St. Louis back in 1954 to see Stan “the Man” Musial hit five home runs on the same day in a double header. I’ll be in the new Yankee stadium in July.  And how about the moving story last week when Detroit Tigers pitcher Armando Galarraga was robbed of a no hitter by a bad call.  The umpire, once he reviewed the game film, apologized in tears.  Both pitcher and ump handled the whole mistake with real class.  You know, there is a rumor going around that everybody makes mistakes.  What matters is what you do after the mistake is made.  How we react to mistakes of someone else, especially when we are hurt, reveals us like an open book.  The Irish novelist James Joyce put it this way:  “A man’s errors are his portals of discovery.”

Now, how about the baseball play of the week?  It would be hard to top the run scored by a Fordum University player Brian Kownacki. He was a pinch hitter, and was hit by a pitch putting him on base. You will not believe how he scores.

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Once a year, former Louisiana state senators come to the capitol for a reunion.  I was first elected as a senator back in 1971, and served for eight years in what many good government observers feel was one of the  most progressive and productive times in the history of state government.  It’s a treat to come to the capitol and renew old friendships.  The problem is that the members from my time are dwindling.  Yes, I was one of the youngest senators elected back then, but Louisiana is looking some distinguished former public servants who served well.  As for me, I do hope to be in that reunion number for many years to come.

We are all motivated by money to some degree”¦.right?  Yes, money can be a powerful motivator, but as studies performed by universities around the country (and this video below) explain, rewarding people financially only works to a point. Beyond that, you need autonomy and purpose.  You will find the following verbal commentary a fascinating review of just what motivates us.  After a certain point, money really doesn’t matter that much.  Or so the following analysis concludes.  Take look and see what you think.  But watch it.  You won’t be disappointed.

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With all the media attention on the Gulf oil spill, the financial disaster caused by Wall Street has slipped out of the public eye. But I’m convinced there is trouble in River City.  A.I.G., the countries’ largest insurance company, still has big problems despite a $185 billion bailout by taxpayers”¦.you and me. And the big shots in Washington seem to little more than shrug their shoulders and, as of this date, no financial regulatory reform has taken place. Take a look below for a bit of levity and some pretty straight commentary on the bungling in the nation’s capitol. It’s what many of us have been saying for some time. The Republican’ts and the Demodon’ts are too involved in the infighting of party politics, and are certainly not looking out for the public interest.

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British Petroleum is certainly everyone’s villain these days.  And for good reason.  But now, right in the middle of their desperate effort to cap this massive oil spill, the Feds move in to possibly bring criminal charges.  Doesn’t this put a damper on BPs efforts to get this leak sealed?  Or are BP officials running to their lawyers?  Let’s face it.  BP and team have whatever helpful knowledge is available, and the feds do not. So be careful to whom you start hollering about criminal charges, at least until the problem is solved.

In my new column now posted, I point out that we are stuck with BP and whatever technical drilling knowledge they can bring to the table.  Government has sat on the sidelines for years giving vast responsibilities over to the oil industry.  See if you agree.  You can read the column now by Clicking Here.

And view the video beow about how much more damaging this diaster is than merely a “spill.”

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And see what the Ragin' Grannies have to say about BP and the Spill.

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Louisiana Congressman Charlie Melancon represents a district that will soon be covered along its entire southern border in oil.  He has been a guest on my national radio show (see above) for the past several weeks, and has spent the bulk of his time over the past month on Louisiana’s oil slick coast.  In an emotional congressional hearing in Washington this past week, Congressman Melancon came to teats that received national coverage.  Now he is calling for the resignation of BP’s chief operating officer.  He will give us an update on this week’s Sunday show. (during the 10:00 hour (central time). Right now, any chance for a quick capping of the gushing well seems remote.

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Well as you can see from the photo above, I was “in that number” Sunday night to hear Kenny Chesney, Brooks and Dunn, and a whole array of nationally known country singers in Tiger Stadium. More than 50,000 people cheered Chesney as the country music star ended the 16-act, two-day Bayou Country Superfest. I had a ringside seat for one heck of a show.

Chesney, like the acts that played before him, expressed his excitement about being part of the event.”I’ve been sitting back there in that bus waiting to play Tiger Stadium,” Chesney said shortly after he took stage. “And I can’t believe that I’m here.”Prior to Chesney’s show, Brooks & Dunn, the biggest-selling duo in country history, rocked Tiger Stadium like the Rolling Stones, drawing a rapturous reaction.

I’ll tell ya,’ it’s no holds barred and kickin’ butt time in Alabama political campaigns.  Tim James, the Republican candidate for governor, has a TV spot about making the state’s test for a driver’s license be written in only English that’s generated buzz, but it pales next the rifle-toting, tough-talking candidate for Agriculture Commissioner, one Dale Peterson.

 An opening shot of Peterson’s TV spot shows framing Marine dog tags and a scroll of the U.S. Constitution dissolves into Peterson riding a horse into the frame, wearing sunglasses and a cowboy hat. The camera jump-cuts every few seconds. Theme music, sounding like it might be from a new episode of “The Rifleman,” swells. Peterson doesn’t so much address the camera as he barks at it. “I want to run some crooks off and get this state turned around, big guy, “the candidate growls.  Is this the wave of future political ads?  Take a look and see one tough guy.

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A massive oil spill!  Were all these years of oil money worth it?  Or did Louisiana make a deal with the devil in dealing with the abundant minerals the state has?  My new column is up, and it , unfortunately, may be time to pay the piper for not being good stewards of Louisiana’s environment.  It will take decades or even more for the marsh to recover in South Louisiana. You can read my thoughts of what could have, what should have been done for years.  Read it now by Clicking Here.

MEMORIAL DAY, for Americans, is a day dedicated to the military people who gave the ultimate sacrifice for the security of the countrymen. The Memorial Day is observed on the last Monday of May every year and following the tradition, this year it will be observed on this Monday, May 31, 2010.

What is Memorial Day? Well, to most Americans, it’s a day off work and a chance to kick off summer activities.  Nothing wrong with that.  But we all should remember that it is a day to also honor those who gave their lives so that you and I could have a pleasant weekend, as well as freedom.

 Lee Greenwood said it well below.  And you will also see below my two favorite videos about the frustrations of many in our country today, and how we often don’t appreciate the freedoms that we have. So do you honor those who died?  Do you fly the American flag outside your home?  (I fly the flag at both my home and office year round.)  Are you all that concerned about your country?  Take a look and listen.  And have a pleasant Memorial Day.

Lee Greenwood- And I’m proud to be an American, Where at least I know I’m free. And I won’t forget the men who died, who gave that right to me.

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It seems like all we her on the news is continuing coverage of the Gulf oil spill, and controversy over a lack of any consistent immigration policy.  I’m a big Ray Stevens fan, and he  takes the politicians in Washington head on as he points out how wishy washy the country’s approach to immigration has been by both Republicans and Democrats.  Take a listen to Ray.

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Oil spill problems continue to mount along the Gulf Coast.  What was once a fairly contained south Louisiana problem has now become a massive problem for the entire Gulf Coast and possibly the east coast.  It’s hard to put into  words the extent of the damage to the marshes in south Louisiana.  The soft delicate marsh grasses act like a sponge and just soak up the water.  Millions of aquatic wildlife will surely die.  And the economy will suffer for decades. The clean up can well be worse than the spill itself. Take a look at these troubling photos below.  And to see a more complete gathering of vivid pictures, Click Here.

In recent years, the federal government has promised us safety, but at one heck of a price.  We live in a brave new world today.  Surveillance cameras monitor most areas of our lives. When the government chooses, it can listen in on our telephone calls and read our e-mails.  And now, the U.S. Supreme Court says that if you are convicted of a crime and finish your incarceration, the government can continue to detain you indefinitely if they ““ yes they, think you are a risk.

Jim raises some thought provoking questions in this week’s column now posted.  You can read it now by Clicking Here.

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Actor Kevin Costner, who has come to save the day in many movies, may be a key player in cleaning up all the oil spill mess off the Louisiana coast.  Could there be a Hollywood ending to the Gulf oil spill. The “Waterworld” movie star has invented a device that cleans oil from sea water.

British Petroleum – desperate for ideas – gave the okay to test six of Costner’s gizmos Wednesday, after the Army Corps of Engineers gave the machine a thumbs-up. Costner’s $24 million centrifuge machine has a Los Angeles-perfect name, “Ocean Therapy.”Placed on a barge, it sucks in oily water, separates out the oil and spits back clean water.

I met Costner a few weeks ago and he said he started paying a team of scientists millions to create the device after the 1989 Exxon Valdez spill in Alaska, while working on his epic 1995 flop “Waterworld.”

“I’m just really happy that the light of day has come to this,” Costner said.  It’s prepared to go out and solve problems, not talk about them.”

Costner’s has 300 machines in various sizes, with the largest able to clean water at a rate of 200 gallons a minute. A minimum of 210,000 gallons of oil per day is gushing into the sea from the well that exploded April 20.

By the way, I asked Costner what his favorite movie of all the ones he has made.  He told me it was “Open Range” that he did a few years back with Robert Duvall. “I like the outdoors,” he told me.  Good Kevin.  We have plenty to keep you busy in the outdoors down here in Louisiana.

As most of you readers who have followed my website and columns over the years well know, I’m a diehard basketball fan, having played a bit years ago.  North Carolina legendary basketball Coach Dean Smith recruited me to come to Chapel Hill back in 1958. C Some guy came to Carolina a little after me that didn’t do too badly either.  Want was his name?  Something Jordan?

Well the best basketball Player, hands down, in America today is the star forward for the NBA’s Cleveland Cavilers named Lebron James.  He is simply the vest at every position on the court.  But his contract is up with Cleveland, and he is no doubt tempted to become the toast of New York or Loa Angeles.  Nothing against Cleveland, but, well you know.  But don’t sell Cleveland short.  They are making an all out push to keep Lebron.  Just take a look at the “We are the World” video below.  Give Cleveland credit for pulling out all stops.

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The first big, blockbuster movie I can remember is the first Star Wars film.  I was hooked from the get go and cheered on Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, Han Solo, Chewbacca, Ben Kenobi, C-3PO, R2-D2) and the whole gang as they battled the evil empire.  The first film came out 30 years ago, and I’m sure I’ll go back to see Star Wars in its digitalized, adobe sound new addition.  So to get ready for the big event, what better way than to in  star in my own Star Wars film.  Take a look.

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IN LOUISIANA OIL SPILL

DID STATE AND FEDERAL AGENCIES DROP THE BALL?

It didn’t take long for the blame game to begin shortly after the tragic Gulf oil explosion. State and Federal officials were in lock step in declaring that British Petroleum (BP), who had leased the gulf oil track from the federal government, was completely at fault and had the sole obligation to get the mess cleaned up. But what about the Feds themselves as well as Louisiana officials? Was there a gamelan I place? Did anyone ever imagine that such a disaster might take place? Jim Brown writes about who is in line to be responsible in this week’s column. You can read it now by Clicking here.

And check out the video below with an interesting suggestion as to how to clean up the spill along Louisiana’s coast.

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A delightful, older couple, Marlo and Frances Cowan, traveled to the Mayo Clinic to have a check up, and had some time to kill.  There was a piano in the atrium of the clinic, so they stopped for a bit to play.  The have become an overnight sensation on Youtube.  Maybe I’m just getting older, but I enjoyed their show.Take a look and listen.

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Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal has taken some roosting and hits from some skeptics on the national level for his all out call for federal help to deal with the present oil spill crisis.  They say that Jindal is being inconsistent and “two faced” in opposing many federal programs, including the stimulus package, while now asking for extensive federal money. But the Governor is taking a “cheap shot” on this criticism.  The spill did not take place in Louisiana nor were the prevention tactics overseen by Louisiana officials.  All Jindal is saying is that someone else has severely damaged the Louisiana coast and the Louisiana’s economy, and the feds, who are in charge of the oversight, should steep up and seed that the state is cleaned up and reimbursed.

The Jindal attack is portrayed below in an MSNBC Keith Obermann rant.  There is also an amusing parody of Jindal’s approach towards governing  in this week’s Family Security Matters magazine.  You can read it by Clicking Here.

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

My second home has been, for many years, Linville, North Carolina, high in the Blue Ridge Mountains, in the Tar Heel state’s northwest corner.  I ski in the winter, hike watch the leaves change in the fall, then golf and take in bluegrass music in the summer.  Maybe some fly fishing in the spring.  And a daily morning stop for coffee is to visit my old friend and the “Mayor of Linville,” Faye Hughes.  I have been stopping off to visit with Faye for some 25 years, and she is quite a lady, as you can see from the video below.

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The blogosphere is full of many important issues to write about.  Often, it is hard to choose a subject.  Terrorists, immigration, rip offs on Wall Street, oil spills”¦the list can go on and on.  But hey, today is my birthday.  Can you believe I hit seventy?  So I paused for just a bit, and write this week’s column on what my view of the world is as I reach this milestone.  So take a minute to read over my birthday thoughts, and maybe you might reminisce a bit yourself.  You can read my new column by Clicking Here.

Catch Jim on WJBO Radio in Baton Rouge this Thursday, May 6th, from 9:00 am until 11:00 am. 1150 on your radio dial. Listen on the worldwide web at www.wjbo.com.

Billy Joe shaver has been around longer than me, and I’ve heard him sing many times.  We’ve gotten to know each other over the past 15 years.  He’s a survivor like me.  Willie Nelson says “Billy Joe shaver may be the best songwriter alive today.”Â  His songs talk about a life full of hard times, wild living, and lots of passion.  He’s sure had a number of ups and downs, but he is a survivor and that why I like him so much.   My favorite Billy Joe Shaver song?  That’s an easy one.  Listen below to: “I’m going to Live Forever.”

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Clint Eastwood and I share a birth date.  He turned 80 this week.  And you sure wouldn’t know it.  He seems to have not slowed down a bit, and turns out a new movie almost every year.  One of his keys to longevity is a continuing exercise routine.  I had the change to have a long visit some years back about his daily workouts.  Even on the movie location, he gets in some time of vigorous exercise daily.  So I guess I’m just trying to keep up with Clint.  Below is a photo of an Eastwood-Brown meeting in New Orleans back in the mid 80s.  I’m sure you will agree that neither of us has changed a bit.

 

Arizona has set off a wave of controversy by passing a new law that random stops can be made for proof of citizenship.  Some 500,000 illegal immigrants have flooded across the Arizona-Mexican border.  Louisiana too has seen a wave of new, undocumented immigrants.  Should Louisiana follow Arizona’s lead?  Or are these undocumented worker’s too valuable to the local economy?  Jim’s NEW column is now up, and you can read it y Clicking Here.

And be sure to listen to Jim’s radio show on Clear Channel’s WJBO in Baton Rouge, this Friday evening.  He’s own to talk about this very subject from 5:00 pm until 7:00 pm at 1150 am, or on the world wide web at http://www.wbo.com/.

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It’s Rambo all this week on the AMC network.  Rambo One, Two and Three over and over.  And I have a confession to make.  I’m an unabashed Rambo fan.  You see, in the Rambo movies, the system royally screws the war hero.  But he bides his time, and then gets his revenge.  His government dumped on him.  I can relate to that.  There’s a Chinese Proverb: If you wait long enough by the river, your enemies will come floating by.  Rambo certainly believes this.  And so do I. I’ve seen the Rambo movies many, many times.  And you know what?  I’m watching again this week.  Just biding my time.  Check out Rambo below and Click “Watch on Youtube.”

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Anyone in New Orleans back in the latter half of the 20^th century was well acquainted with Seafood City, a giant supermarket of seafood that took up a whole block at 1826 North Broad Street in an area called Gentilly.  The King of Seaford City was “Doctor” Al Scramuzza, a real local character who was known all over the area through his TV commercials.  Al was also active in politics, and was quite astute in being involved in most of my early campaigns.  When I ran for Governor of Louisiana in 1987, Al was actively involved in helping organize in the Crescent City.

 Someone recently sent me this short bio of Dr. Al, and it really gives the local flavor of Al and the city he loved.  I think you will enjoy watching the colorful video below.    And about 80% through the video, note the guy serving up the large net of crawfish and catch the T Shirt he is wearing.   I’m glad to know I had a few Orleans votes in that Governor’s race some 23 years ago.

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 JIM’S WEBSITE BACK UP AND RUNNING

(Sorry about the down time.  A computer virus that is now fixed.)

 

A terrible story of how out of whack the Louisiana justice is in this week’s column.  A killer of a Catholic priest down in Thibodaux, Louisiana will walk free after serving NO time because of a convoluted juvenile crime law that was on the books in the 1990’s when the murder took place.   Jim’s column this week talks about how justice was certainly not served even thought such a heinous crime was committed.  What went wrong?  Take a look at Jim’s column now up about the tragic murder of the priest that married Jim and his wife.  You can read it now by Clicking Here.

 

In the fall of 2001, a nation reeling from the horror of 9/11 was rocked by a series of deadly anthrax attacks. As the pressure to find a culprit mounted, the FBI, abetted by the media, found one. The wrong one. Here is a chilling and troubling story of how federal authorities blew the biggest anti-terror investigation of the past decade ““ and nearly destroyed an innocent man. The FBI falsely accused, Dr. Steven J. Hatfill, and he finally speaks out about his ordeal. Read the whole story by Clicking Here.

Hatfill was unceremoniously dumped by LSU, where he was teaching when the FBI tried to destoy him. Little honor on the part of LSU that apparently could care less about the protested innocence of Hatfill. You can see the final results of the FBI’s negilgence in the video below.

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TIME TO ASK SOME TOUGH QUESTIONS

ABOUT LOUISIANA INSURANCE

A number of Louisiana legislators are feeling increasing heat back in their districts about why Louisiana continues, year after year, to have the highest insurance rates in the nation.  A small deep southern state should be way down the list of most expensive states.  That’s the case across the board in states from Texas across the gulf coast and up the eastern seacoast to North Carolina.  Property insurance is somewhat higher because of the proximity to the hurricane prone gulf.  But no state, in the south or elsewhere across the country, continues to have such high, across the board insurance costs.  So legislators, for good reason, are wondering: Why?  My column this week raises questions that legislators in Louisiana should be asking in the weeks to come.  You can read it now by Clicking Here.

There’s nothing like a week in the Tampa, Florida areas for baseball spring training and long workouts to clear your head and get you revitalized.  I make an annual pilgrimage to South Florida to see a number of baseball teams get ready for the new season.  In addition, a few days at the IMC Bollettieri Fitness Institute in Bradenton, Florida gets me fired up to come back home and get in better shape for the summer months.  Below is a video and photo journey of my trip.  Take a look.

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The Pittsburg Pirates mascot grabbed me for a photo just before the Pirates ook on the Philadelpha Phillies.  I told him to tell Phillie's manager Charlie Manuel that I'm ready to go in for a few innings, but they didn't take me up on the offer.

The first Hooter's Restaurant is located Clearwater, Florida, a few miles from the Pirates stadium.  It opened on April Fool's Day in 1983.  Wish I had a part ownership.  I sure didn't miss the chance to visit with a few of the Hooter's girls.

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I met Christian Harrison at Bollettieri last year, and found out he was from Shreveport.  I asked him if he was a ranked player and he said he was.  "What are your ranked Chris?" I asked.  Number one he told me.  "Number one, in the whole U.S.?"  He answered:"Number one in the world."  Keep an eye on Christian.

I usually find a workout partner durng workouts.   Kansas State wide receiver Jeron Mastrud teamed up with me for a while.  He hopes to be chosen in the coming NFL draft in a few weeks.

At spring training, you have to go see the Yankees play.  My hotel was less than a mile from the stadium and practice field and I jogged around the workout complex each morning. Below are some of the Yankee die hards who come down each hear from New York City.  Nonie Salter (third from left)is a long time friend married to a New York lawyer, Kevin, who taught me a great deal about international insurance.

Whell St. Patrick’s Day is here, and I’ll be cheering on the green at the annual St. Partick’s Day parade  in Baton Rouge with a number of kids, grandkids, grand nieces and a number of other family members.  But the politicians will be out in large numbers on the parade route.  Here’s a St. Pat’s video cartoon for all those anti-simulus politicians in Louisiana.

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Funny or Die is my kind of website for it makes fun of both political parties.  Take a look at their latest spoof of our current and past presidents.

 

An FBI agent stops at a ranch in Texas, and talks with an old 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 answers 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 DEA officer running for his life chased by the rancher’s big Santa Gertrudis bull……

With every step the bull is gaining ground on the agent, and it seems likely that he’ll get gored before he reaches safety.  The agent is clearly terrified. The rancher throws down his tools, runs to the fence and yells at the top of his lungs…..

“Your badge. Show him your BADGE! ”
 

 

COMMON SENSE IN LOUISIANA GOVERNMENT?

COME ON MAN!

 There is no shortage of controversial and often puzzling happenings in Louisiana to write and comment about.  One of the more challenging things about writing only a weekly column is how to pick and choose.  No problem in Iowa or Oklahoma.  But the Bayou State just bleeds with bountiful topics involving Louisiana personalities (I guess including yours truly) that cry out for commentary and, often, ridicule.  So where to begin?  Take a look at this week’s column on the lack of common sense in make public decisions with taxpayer money.  You can read it now by Clicking Here.

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JIM BROWN BUSY WEEKLY SCHEDULE

Jim Brown has a busy schedule over the next week, and we hope you will tune in and keep an eye on many things that might be of interest to you. This morning (Friday, February 26, 2010), Jim is a guest on WRKF radio, Baton Rouge, with host Jim Engster.   The two Jims will have some fun with the “Come on Man” approach to many of the weird things happening in Louisiana state government.  Then tune in today from 5:00 in the afternoon until 7:00 pm to listen to Jim brown as he hosts his own show on WJBO in Baton Rouge.   You can also listen over the World Wide Web at www.WJBO.com.And all next week, Jim will be broadcasting from Tampa, Florida as baseball’s spring training kicks off.  You can see photo updates and video straight from a number of major league ballparks on Jim’s website.  Jim will also be posting video interviews from world famous tennis coach Nick Bollettieri’s Tennis Institute (http://www.nickbollettieri.com/), where many of the world’s best tennis players train.    So look for email updates and keep an eye on Jim’s website at http://www.jimbrownla.com.

 

“The Authorized Biography of Edwin Edwards“ is quickly becoming the largest selling Louisiana book by a Louisiana author in the state’s history.  Our publishing company, The Lisburn Press, is the book’s publisher.  The story of the state’s most controversial governor is in its third printing with some 50,000 copies now in circulation. To view other Lisburn Press publications, hit The Lisburn Press link in the box on the left side of this page.  Below is an interview with the book’s author, Leo Honeycutt, and his reaction to the book’s tremendous success.

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Ever feel a bit sorry for yourself?  Wish that you could overcome a few problems you have been dealing with?  Need a bit of a lift up?  Well take the time to watch the video below, and you might quickly put your life in a more favorable perspective.  It’s worth a few minutes.

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Want to see a dramatic portrait of how unemployment has crept across Louisiana and the whole country over the past two years?  Take a look at the map below.  You will see in startling slow motion just how, month after month, more and more people were put out of work.  It’s a chilling reminder that getting us out of this mess will take some time, and some real cooperation in Washington where gridlock seems to be taking place.  And so many of our friends are the losers.

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A number two guy in Louisiana?  Lieutenant Governor! What Lieutenant Governor?  If Gov. Bobby Jindal has his way, the number two spot in the state hierarchy is a gone pecan.  But hey Governor, why stop there?  Do we really need more elected public officials than any state in the country?  And what about all the local elected offices and boards and commissions?  Take a look at my column now posted to share my thoughts on what the Louisiana Legislature and Governor Bobby Jindal should do.  You can read it now by Clicking Here. 

As I have well documented in numerous columns, I am skeptical of certain “slam dunk” criminal cases that law enforcement officers often say are air tight, but later prove to be full of holes.  That is often the case with so called “eye witness” testimony.  Just how reliable is your first impression of what you see?’

Take a look at the photo below to see what I mean.  You will need to look at it on a PC, and not a Blackberry or I Phone.  You need to look first at the photo, then get out of your seat and walk away from your computer.  Don’t worry about what anyone around you might think.

When you look at the picture up close, it’s of course Albert Einstein.  But what happens when you walk 15 away.  That’s right.  It becomes Marilyn Monroe.  So much for eye witness testimony.

 

In the Saints huge victory, one of the key plays of the game was the call by Coach Sean Payton to try an onside kick as the second half began.  New Orleans kicker Thomas Morstead squibbed the ball short in a surprise attempt at an onside kick and the ball was recovered by New Orleans.  The Saints turned the tide of the game, and a day later, the trick play was being touted as the gutsiest call in Super Bowl history.

But was it really that gutsy? The numbers say no. Statistically, the surprise onside kick works more often than not. Since 2000, onside kicks in the first three quarters””when they are typically unexpected””have been recovered by the kicking team almost 59% of the time. By contrast, 15% of fourth-quarter onside kicks were recovered in that same span.

In other words, it was more of a calculated risk than a gamble. A third-quarter onside kick is a pretty good gamble.  Perhaps Coach  Payton’s willingness to open himself up to ridicule in the most watched TV show in U.S. history will push more coaches to start listening to what the number crunchers have to say.By the way, the Saints are given 10/1 odds that they will win next year’s Super Bowl, which are the same odds as the New England Patriots.  Whether we in Louisiana like it or not, the Colts are a step ahead at 13/2 odds.

And hey, did you see Saints Quarterback Drew Brees on Oprah his week?  She tought someone had kissed him and pointed to his cheek.  Actually, he has a birthmark there.  Oprah messed up on this one.

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I’ve seen it many times, but I still really like “Gone with the Wind.” It was 71 years ago this month that GONE WITH THE WIND premiered. On that star-studded evening in Atlanta, GA, no one knew the four-hour epic would go on to win eight Academy Awards. The film still attracts large audiences seven decades after its release.  200 million people saw the movie when it was first released when the country had a population of only 130 million.   Judy Garland was tapped to play Scarlett O’Hara’s sister, but could not because she was already committed to THE WIZARD OF OZ. Katherine Hepburn as Scarlett? She was seriously considered. Reportedly, Vivien Leigh’s salary was $25,000, while Clark Gable made $125,000, plus a $50,000 bonus. Mistakes were made: In one scene, a character picks up a lamp with an electric cord ““ there were no electric lamps in that period. When Scarlett leaves a military hospital in Atlanta, in the distance a radio tower can be seen. There were no radio towers in 1864. Here’s some clips of the film and the coverage below.

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OH SUSIE Q!

 

What a week for Mayor elect  Mitch Landrieu!  How could anyone create a better scenario to begin rebuilding and renewal in New Orleans?  An overwhelming first primary victory, the saints win the Super bowl, and Mardi Gras just days away.  The new Mayor is on an unbelievable roll right now with accolades raining down on Landrieu and the city of New Orleans.  But what do you do when the cheering stops, the crowds go home, and the street sweepers move in?  Can all the good will generated this week be harnessed and contained?  How do you keep hopes alive for so many who have been so disappointed over the breakdown and failure of the New Orleans political leadership in recent years?  Read some of his options in my column now posted.  You can read it by Clicking Here.

Former LSU basketball great Rudy Macklin is a class act, and well honored this week.   His No. 40 jersey was retired at 5the LSU-Kentucky game last Saturday, and was unfurled from the rafters, along with other basketball greats Bob Petit, Pete Maravich and Shaquille O’Neal.  Rudy was the first great LSU player I followed back in the 80s when I first bought my LSU season tickets.  I have the same tickets on the front row by the LSU team and the LSU dancers.  But in spite of all the LSU teams since, I can’t remember enjoying seeing anyone play more than Rudy.  He heads up the Mayor’s physical fitness program in Baton Rouge, and we have been god friends for many years.  Congrats to Rudy, for a well deserved honor.  Rudy and I are pictured below shortly after he was honored at halftime.

Well as you can well imagine, no matter where you might live, things were really crazy in New Orleans this week.  Can you believe that the New Orleans Saints win the Super Bowl in the same week as Mardi Gras?  Just couldn’t happen any place else.  The voice of the Saints is former NFL quarterback Bobby Hebert, who everybody in New Orleans knows.  I spoke at his graduation 3ehnd he received his diploma at Northwestern State University in Natchitoches, Louisiana if  the Saints won the Super Bowl, he would parade in a dress.  He lived up to his word in the big Saints parade through the streets on New Orleans earlier this week.  Take a look.

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Keep Dreaming

Well we are just a few weeks from taking that trip down the rabbit hole.  I’m an unabashed Lewis Carroll fan, and read and re read “Alice in Wonderland” on a number of occasions.  And Tim Burton, that macabre eccentric film director, who I also really enjoy, has made a new version of Alice’s adventur3es that comes out soon.  Burton, by the way, is a disturbing genius.  His art is lived and hated by millions.  I really like his stuff so I guess that tells a lot about me.  In any event, take a trip through Burton’s website below.  You can also read about Burton’s work by Clicking Here.  You will either be captivated or think I’m the one who is disturbed.

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We have all heard how wild and wooly politics are out in California.  But things have really gotten strange in the race for US Senator.  The former CEO of Hewlett-Packard, Carly Fiorina, is trying to unseat incumbent Barbara Boxer.  But she has a tough primary fight against fellow republican Tim Campbell.  So she has gone on the attack with this ba-a-a-a-d sheep ad.  Is it really good or one of the worst commercials you have ever seen?  At least, people in California are talking about the political commercial.   Take a look and Click Here for a full evaluation.

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Two different parts of the country and two different issues dominate the news.  For obvious and understandable reasons, the “Who Dat” nation has captivated Louisiana.  Other news stories fade to the inside pages as the success of the New Orleans Saints dominate front pages of newspapers across the state.  But some 2000 miles away in Portland, Oregon, the Saints command barely a mention.  It’s Steve Jobs and his new Apple iPad Tablet that is sparking much more interest.  So is there a way to blend the excitement stirred in both states to ameliorate what’s happening in Louisiana?  Take a look a Jim’s column now posted.  You can read it by Clicking Here. 

There is just no doubt about it.  Louisiana Senator David Vitter is just about the toughest, meanest guy on the political stump these days.  Just take a look.

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It’s all Super bowl talk here in Louisiana, but there are a number of other front burner issues in the northwest.  I was in Hood River, Oregon (just south of Portland) over the past few days, checking on a new granddaughter   The Oregon legislature is in session (they meet only once in two years), and there are a number of interesting comparisons and differences between this progressive state and Louisiana. You might want to take a look at some of my observations in the video below, that tie in with this week’s column.

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Did you hear the one about the groundhog in Chapel Hill? He stuck his head out of the ground this morning, said it looks like six more weeks of bad basketball, and went back into his hole. As those of you who have been reading my site for a while know, I’m a diehard Carolina basketball fan.  I usually go to Chapel Hill for several home games a year, and take in the ACC tournament.  But boy, how quickly the team that won the national championship last year has fallen.

North Carolina basketball fans must feel like the Bill Murray character in “Groundhog Day” “” they seem to be watching the same game over and over. Struggling on both ends of the floor, their famous coach getting more and more frustrated, hang a higher number in the “L” column. “How much lower can we go?” was Roy Williams’ plaintive cry after the Tar Heels’ latest disaster in a season gone awry, a 75-60 loss to Virginia Sunday night at the Dean Dome. “How much worse can it get?”Â 

 A lot Coach.  And you share a good part of the blame.  You did not have to coach much last year with all your talent. Not much to do but hope UNC can struggle into some (any)post season tourney.  Then wait till next year.  In the meantime, guys like me continue to shake their heads and wonder what happened to the Tar Heels. Come on Coach Williams.  Qite shakeing yhour head and start coaching.

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Some observers are saying that the Supreme Court decision last week allowing corporations to openly support candidates in federal elections will now put these candidates, including those in Louisiana for sale subject to the highest bidder.  Just how does this controversial decision affect Louisiana candidates?  Take a look at my new column now up.  I have my own special solution that will dry up all this lobbying and corporate spending.  Take a look now by Clicking Here.

 Just when you thought the Louisiana Citizens Insurance fiasco could not get any worse, it always does.  The most recent audit blasted Citizens for being the most dysfunctional and worst run agency in Louisiana state government.  The new audit, by the Louisiana Legislative Auditor, highly criticizes Citizens for doing a poor job as placing internal controls, and regularly violating state law by selling policies to ineligible property owners.  In addition, the state created company, set up by the Louisiana Department of Insurance, submitted "inaccurate and incomplete financials," including inaccurate statements of assets and liabilities.  The good news is that State treasurer John Kennedy is leading the charge for the legislature to abolish this poorly run company.  It could not happen soon enough.  Below is a portion of the hearing on abolishing Citizens that took place at the state capitol recently.

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You readers who keep an eye on this site from around the Globe may not be able to appreciate the excitement and enthusiasm that have captivated Louisiana with the advent of the New Orleans Saints being in the Super Bowl.  It has been a real shot in the arm for the morale of so many Louisianians who have dealt with the aftermath of Katrina and Rita, along with the problems with our economy. To get a feel of the excitement down this way, take a look below at some of the views of our part of the country.  And remember ““ Who Dat!  Go Saints!

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