When Bekka and Johnny Campbell got married Friday at the Magnolia Plantation in Harahan, the groom’s cake had white icing with the stylized ‘A’ of the Crimson Tide. As cellphone video cameras recorded the moment, Johnny Campbell beamed and celebrated with a handful of other Bama fans as he cut a corner piece. That’s when he discovered his bride had called a trick play that would have made former Tiger coach Les Miles proud. The two cake layers were a bright purple and gold, inspiring chants of “L-S-U! L-S-U!” “They got me,” he said by telephone Monday from Miami, where they are honeymooning. “They definitely got me.”  See video below.

Should trials in the federal court system be televised? The courts are reluctant to open up their courtroom and let the public see what goes on. And sometimes, the way certain judges behave, you can see what they want to cover their procedures in secrecy. But shouldn’t open trials be part of the democratic process? Why is the federal courtroom so veiled in secrecy?  The US Supreme Court, who often makes laws affecting each of us, is dead set against televising their proceedings. Check out my thoughts in my new column now posted. You can read it by clicking on the Red Flashing box above, or by Clicking Here.

Big plans for radio weekend coming up. President Trump really upset NATO allies. Does it matter? Commentator Steve Levy joins us to discuss. We will also talk with Author Lance LoRusso about the increased confrontation between police officers and criminals on the street, along with his book “When Cops Kill.”Â  And political commentator Christopher Tidmore will help up analyze the Trump approach to politics.(See www.theFMZ.com ) So tune in for a lively program. Check local listings for times and stations. We will see you on the radio.

Did you watch any of the World Cup Soccer?  It’s called Football all over the world but here in the U.S.  And here’s a really special soccer story. The World Cup certainly brings out the passion in some people.  One of the most memorable stories out of this year’s games hasn’t happened on the field, however. Instead, in Colombia, Jose Richard Gallego is celebrating the best of soccer with his best friend, Cesar Daza. The catch?  Gallego is deaf and blind. Gaza learned sign language and created a unique set of gestures to communicate every football match in real time to Gallego.  See them communicating below.  What’s one of the most memorable things a friend has done for you? Roger Smith shared this story from is site, and see it by Clicking Here.

A lot of attention is focused on Brussels and Europe this week, as the President continues his criticism of the European Union for not giving more financial support to NATO. But the President does seem to maintain a close relationship with FrenchPresident Emmanuel Macron. And that’s good news for Louisiana. I write about the highs and lows of Franco-U.S. relations and the long relationship between France and Louisiana in this week’s column.  You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

A lot of variety in this week’s Common Sense radio show. We will talk about the President’s Supreme Court nominee. Also, a disturbing new disease affecting children called Pans. Kids become uncontrollable, and we will talk to some experts about this serious problem.  Then why are so many musicians committing suicide?  We will discuss with Bethany Ewald Bultman Co-Founding Director of the New Orleans Musicians  Clinic & Assistance Foundation.  And Philip K. Howard, Chair of Common Good and an expert on obsolete laws will tell us about all the laws that have no  business on the books.  So join us for a lively program. Check local listings for times and stations see you on the radio.

What a moving video of a wounded soldier and precious young girl named Tempy, who is such a precious child with a common sense and understanding than most people. God bless you and our Soldiers who are fighting for peace and freedom here and abroad !

Whoever the President selects to be the next US Supreme Court nominee, you can place your bets that no one from Louisiana or on the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals will be given any consideration whatsoever. Judges on the Fifth Circuit regularly get into verbal altercations, with some being call secrecy freaks, and issuing rulings that have been called by the press as being flat out American. The whole bunch on the Fifth Circuit bench are often referred to as gray mice, and all this is explained in this week’s column. It’s a shame that in the Deep South, that overwhelmingly supported the President, offers such incompetent choices for promotion. But that’s just the way it is. You can read my comments now about going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

Weekend radio kicks off what’s a lively Post Independence Day program. We will talk about the changing face of America, and the continuing immigrant problem.  Also, homeless advocate Glen Dunzweiler will join us to discuss whey there are so few Asians or Hispanics who are homeless. Then Dr. Ira Williams joins us, who often calls himself the “Don Quixote” of health care reform and he’s looking for some “Sancho Panza’s” to help him! At 85 years young, he’s spent decades hounding the five Federal agencies created to solve the health care crisis.  So much to talk about, and I hope you will join us. Check local listings for times and stations. We will see you on the radio.

Early learning programs are taking place with preschoolers at ages three and four all over the country. It’s a proven fact that 90% of your brain is developed before age four. Yet Louisiana is spending a pittance on early childhood education. There are almost 140,000 kids that need such early learning, with thousands of parents holding down two jobs, or support their kids as a single parent while working. The proof is in the pudding. Early education makes a huge difference in developing later skills. Unfortunately, the legislature of Louisiana is doing very little to assist in this regard. I’ve written all about the problem in my new column now posted. You can read it by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

Wow! Our weekend common sense radio show is really shaping up to be a Blockbuster program. Best-selling author Samuel Mitchan will kickoff our show to discuss his new book about the Civil War called “Vicksburg.” He makes the case that the Battle of Vicksburg was the decisive battle for the defeat of the Confederates. We will also discuss finding lost treasure off the east coast of Florida and the  uncovering of eight Spanish vessels from the 1700s. Exploration president Cliff Bragdon is our guest. And with the 4th of July, that means eating hot dogs. Eric Mittenthal, president of the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council will tell us why these tasty treats are so popular. Much, much more to discuss. Check local listings for times and stations. We will see you on the radio!

There is so much good young talent all over the world. And when it comes to singing, there really is not too young an  age to begin. Check out this darling little girl singing with her dad. She is really something special.

To some politicians, the Russian involvement in our US elections is a real travesty. But guess what? We’ve been infiltrating both Russia and many other countries, undermining their election process for a number of years. And have the Russians really been successful? Then there’s the question of can you really break into the voting machine system? I take a look at all these issues in this week’s column. You can read it now to see what you think. To look over the column, click on the Red Flashing Box above, or Click Here.

So much to talk about on this week’s commonsense radio show. The FBI seems to be imploding from within, and the culture of corruption continues. Is your any hope of signing up the big mess created by the FBI? Harvard professor Lauren Wright will join us to discuss what an earth to do about the immigration problem they continue to grow. (www.laurenwright.com). We’ll talk about immigration alternatives with the New York lawyer Rahul Manchanda.  (www.manchanda-law.com).  And old friend Jeff Crouere, also a syndicated radio host, will discuss his new book, America’s Last Chance. (www.jeffcrouere.com).  So join us for a lively program. Check local listings for times and stations. We will see you on the radio.

So you buy a special gate to block off a ladder to your summing pool, so as to protect young kids. And you certainly expect it to work, right? Well take a look at the video below. This tiny young boy muscles right up over the protection gate into the swimming pool slide. This manufacturer will certainly have some tough questions to answer.

Louisiana automobile insurance costs continue to skyrocket, with no end in sight. Yet the politicians in Baton Rouge continue to ignore the problem. Not a word about higher insurance rates from the governor, the legislature, or the insurance department.  Why are Louisiana costs so high and so out of line with the rest of the nation?  I take a look at the serious problem in this week’s column. And there’s no simple and easy solution. But ignoring the huge costs of insurance for the average citizen is being highly responsible. Read my column and see what you think. You can see it now by clicking on the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

Our common sense weekend radio program is just round the corner, and we will have a jam-packed show. We will talk about how many Americans are getting tired of the MuellerFBI investigation, with former special FBI agent Jeff Lanza.   Also, sports’ betting is now become legal. John Rothschild is a leading sports betting expert and will join us to discuss. Then America’s moneyman Jordan Goodman will help us understand all this controversy about foreign trade.  And finally, Author and rape survivor Joyce Short will help us understand the current state of the Me To movement. So join us for a lively program. Check local listings for times and stations we will see you on the radio.

An FBI agent who shot a man in the leg after dropping his gun while doing a backflip on a dance floor has been charged with second-degree assault and more charges could be filed based on the results of blood alcohol tests. Just another in a series of FBI screw ups.

Some choices we have to make in our life are so hard they seem impossible to make. We’re specifically talking about moral dilemmas and life-changing decisions here, when both options just seem so unfair or undesirable but something’s gotta be done. So get ready and calibrate your moral compass because we’ve prepared the hardest test ever! It’s full of moral dilemmas, and the way you solve them can speak volumes about your personality. Take the test below and see what you would do.

Most Americans love their local professional sports teams. Whether its football, basketball, baseball, hockey, or other competitive teams, we love to cheer them on. Major sports teams want the big glitzy stadiums with VIP boxes, huge televisions that surround the stadium, and many other amenities. Who pays the cost? In many instances, taxpayers do. Is this really a good deal for taxpayers, and the best use of public money? I write about it this week’s column. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

The “Common Sense” Radio Show will feature regular hosts Rannah Gray and Leo Honeycutt this weekend as host Jim Brown takes a break up in the North Carolina mountains. Listeners can look forward to current updates on crazy world events, as well as a balanced perspective as to what’s going on in our country today.  Tune in for an enjoyable several hours of listening.  Check local listings for times and stations.  We will see you on the radio.

“It does no harm just once in a while to acknowledge that the whole country isn’t in flames…That there are people in this country besides politicians, entertainers and criminals. And they do really good things.” A little girl wipes away the tears of a man on TV…

As all of you Cajuns and rednecks know, we eat about anything down here in the Bayou State. Even our state wildlife office supplies locals with recipes for nutria.  And that’s a big rat.  So should there be any reluctance to eat horsemeat?  Horse lovers, in the old west tradition, have been protective of their horses.  But horsemeat is a stable food in many countries both in Asia and in Europe.  So is the U.S. ready for an equine diet?  Check out my latest column and see what you think.  You can read it now by Clicking on the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

A BIG radio weekend planned and we hope you can join us.  Starbucks’s continues to deal with the fallout of not serving some customers.Dr. ArLyne Diamond, President & Founder of Diamond Associates & Workplace Consultant will give advice to this large company. And the sports princess, Kate Delaney, will give her thoughts on NFL players not respecting the American flag. This and much more on the weekend radio show.  Check local listings for times and stations.  See you on the radio.

These royal weddings can realty be a pain. Tea, crumpets, hangin’ out with the Queen. It sure will be good to get back home to Baton Rouge, agree?

THE TOAST OF LSU!

If there ever was a Louisiana legend down here the Bayou State, it was Heisman Trophy winner and football All-American Billy Cannon. He died this week, and the whole state is in mourning. Billy Cannon had his highs and lows, but the people down here loved him wherever he went. Even after he went to jail for counterfeiting, he still was the toast of the Bayou State. I write about the magic of Billy Cannon and my personal experience with his downfall, in this week’s column. See highlights of Billy Cannon below. And ou can read my column now bye going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

Showtime for our Common Sense radio program. Do we now have spygate engulfing the FBI? And how about Hawaii’s volcano”“ Is it telling us something? Dr. Richard Ruhling thinks so and will tie in Biblical prophecy. His latest book is “God bless America?” Also author Jim DeFelice will talk about his new book, “West Like Lightning”, about the formation of the pony express. And finally, we will talk with author Jamila Michener about her new book called “Fragmented Democracy”, that examines American democracy involving so many people living in or near poverty. So a full program is scheduled. Check local listings for times and stations. We will see you on the radio.

If you live down here in Louisiana, you keep your eye out for flooding during this time of year. There’s massive runoff from rivers and streams throughout the north, the pass right by my hometown. The map below really pushes the focus on how much water actually come down the river. Two thirds of all the water in America drains right by us.  A stunning new map shows the complex network of rivers and streams in the contiguous United States. Created by Imgur user Fejetlenfej, a geographer and GIS analyst with a “˜lifelong passion for beautiful maps,’ it highlights the massive expanse of river basins across the country ““ in particular, those, which feed the Mississippi River.  You can see why we are so concerned about flooding.

Public confidence in both the Republican and Democratic parties is at an all-time low, both in Washington as well as the state level. Political gridlock, in the view of many Americans, keeps anything from getting done. That’s why more and more voters are switching their allegiances to becoming independent. Is there room for a new independent party both from the state level as well as Washington DC? I write about becoming an independent in my new column now posted. Take a look and see what you think. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

Wow! What a weekend radio schedule we have planned. Lots of controversy over the opening of the new Jerusalem Embassy for America. Aaron David Miller, author of “The End of Greatness: Why America Can’t Have (and Doesn’t Want) Another Great President”will join us to discuss. Then, do you live in a happy state?  Pamela Gail Johnson, a happiness expert, will make comparisons. And our friend author Alan Topol will join us to discuss his new bookRussian Resurgence,. So join us for a lively show.  Check local listings for times and stations. We will see you on theradio.

So what do you do when a volcano is about  to engulf everything around you?  Simple.  You  go play golf, right?  Check out Ppople play golf in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park yesterday as an ash plume rises in the distance from the Kilauea volcano on Hawaii’s Big Island.  I think I would play another time personally.

Just how long do you want to live? A Pennsylvania University professor says the cutoff should be 75 years, and that nothing much good happens after 75. Do you think is right? Is 75 years enough time to live a full life? I personally don’t think so, and I believe the professor is way off base. But you can see where he is coming from, and get an idea of my response in my new column now posted. You can read it now by Clicking Here or going to the Red Flashing Box above.

The whole weekend radio gang is back with Leo Honeycutt and Rannah Gray joining me for a lively program this weekend,updating listeners on all the latest news with a humorous twist. We’ll have some fun, but also pick apart everything from the President down to the coarse language being used all over America today. So be sure and tune in. Check local listings for times and stations. We will see you on the radio.

I have always enjoyed trying to figure out magic tricks.  And here’s one I really have no idea how it was done.  Watch magician Nate Staniforth performs the impossible and amazing ‘Lottery Ticket Illusion.’  How does he do it?  I take no responsibility if thinking about this magic trick keeps you awake at night. Take a look and see if you can figure it out.

The Louisiana legislature seems to be rushing a number of new laws expanding the use of medical marijuana. Spasms, stress, back pain, you name it. Under the new law, a wide variety of discomforts qualify you to get a prescription for marijuana. Interestingly, doctors are not jumping on board, and endorsing such a move. Why not? Is anyone really concerned about the addiction that takes place? I write all about this is my new column expressing my reservations. You can read it by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

A full schedule for weekend radio program. Oral friend, Eric Anderson, former US intelligence officer, will join us to update on the Korean situation as well as the present James Comey controversy. What’s better in restrooms, hand dryers or paper towels? Mark Warner, infectious disease expert will discuss. And how about that Georgia nursing home resident that died from scabies infestation? Jo Alch, founder of nursing Acappella home care, will give us her perspective. And finally, just want tis whistleblower. Michael McCray will explain. So join us for a lively program. Check local listings for times and stations. See you on the radio.

What an impressive new National Memorial for Peace and Justice, which opened Thursday in Montgomery, Ala., as a monument to the thousands of black people who have been lynched. Many of the nearly 4,400 victims had never been named in public.  I’m looking forward to a viewing when I travel up that way next month.

Just what does it take to live and long life, maybe even 100 years?  One component wold be that if we did everything with kindness and love, peace and happiness would come to us. A wise and good person is composed and happy, whereas a fool is always worried and full of distress and negativity. A bad attitude is like a flat tire, until YOU change it, YOU will not go anywhere. take a look at tis insightful video below.

When it comes to the FBI, what’s the real truth about lying? Simply put, the FBI lies in gathering information every day. Now we have the nation’s top cops enmeshed into a number of lies themselves, and being investigated for it. What do we expect from Americans top law-enforcement agency? And are we getting our money’s worth? I write about this my new column now posted. You can read it by going to the Red Flashing Box, or by Clicking Here.

Radio weekend is almost here and there sure is a lot of talk about. We’ll start off looking at the Starbucks controversy with guess Nita Wiggins. (https://www.nitawiggins.com).  Can Starbucks ever asked someone to lead their establishment?  Then Dr. Paul Wand we’ll discuss the increasing problem of concussions for athletes. (www.brainhealingcenter.com).   America’s moneyman, Jordan Goodman, will help us figure out just what the stock market is doing. And finally, Prof. Kyle Longley, an expert on hat happened in Vietnam, will talk to us about the renewed interest in this terrible war. So tune in for a great program. Check local listings for times and stations. We will see you on the radio.

So you are considering going out to dinner and wondering just where to go for a really good meal. How but the White house?  The menu for the recent State Dinner for French President Emmanuel Macron was previewed in the State Dining Room.  See if this meets your taste.

There is so much anger and bad news in the world today.  Seems we can’t get away from one controversy after the other.  So let’s pause for a minute and show you a bit of good news for a change.  Enjoy below.

Former FBI Director James Comey is all over America, spinning his firing by President Trump, and trying to sell books. If you are from Louisiana, you probably know about Comey’s efforts to attempt to destroy the reputation of a distinguished LSU professor.  Read all about this huge injustice in my new column now posted.  You can see it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

What a weekend coming up. We really need the whole day. We will try to straighten out the former FBI director James Comey mess for you in his tireless efforts to sell books.  Princeton’s Dr. Lauren Wright will join us to discuss. The US Supreme Court this week is considering allowing states to tax Internet sales. Is this fair? We’ll talk with Chanel Davis, a Dallas CPA. (www.davisanddavis.com.) And how about the fact that most millennials cannot verify what the Holocaust was. We will talk with Prof. David Dillard about this lack of knowledge. And much more. Check local listings for times and stations. We will see you on the radio.Radio Weekend Schedule!

Texas singer-songwriter Terri Hendrix put on quite a show at the Red Dragon in Baton Rouge last night. She covers the gamut in her music and her music belongs to the Americana genre, encompassing folk, pop, country, blues, and jazz. Check her out on YouTube. As you can see, I’m a big fan.

We get it, Texas. Crawfish boils are awesome. We understand why you want to chow down on these tasty critters.  In a commercial for H.E.B., a grocery chain, the owner of a Texas winery throws a boil for his customers. Clearly a few of the finer points of a boil got lost between South Louisiana and Central Texas.

I was told that everything is bigger in Texas. Apparently that doesn’t apply to pots. Look at that tiny thing. And the man says he’s boiling 300 pounds of crawfish.  When the crawfish hits the tables, all the Texans pounce with their tongs to grab those mudbugs as fast as they can. And I get that. Clearly, there isn’t enough to go around. Wait a minute. Back up. Tongs? Tongs?!?  Why do they all have tongs?  The man says he’s boiling for a “few hundred customers,” which is awfully nice of him. So that’s at least 200 people. And he said that he’s boiling 300 pounds of crawfish.  Do the math and that works out to meager 1-1/2 pounds of crawfish per person. 2 pounds for out-of-towners.”  Texans have some strange ideas about a crawfish boils.

A gathering of the few living delegates to the 1973 Constitutional Convention in Baton Rouge last week honored  in the House of Representatives chamber. Not too many of us old guys still around.  (Left to right)-former Rep. Woody Jenkins, House Speaker Bubba Henry, retired Judge Stan Duvall, yours truly, former Sen. Tony Guarisco,Shipping magnate Boysie Bollinger, former Rep. Joe Toomy, and Special Master Pat Juneau.  There’s talk of a new convention, but their will never be a gathering of committed and bright government scholars similar to this that served in CC73.

Louisiana is always looking for the quick fix. It was oil and gas some years back. Today it is casinos and other forms of gambling. And there are discussions in the legislature to increase more gambling options. Is more gambling the answer to improving Louisiana’s quality-of-life? Other states don’t think so. I write about the downsides of legalized gambling in my new column now posted. You can read it by clicking on the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

Wow, what a busy weekend radio program we have scheduled. The FBI raiding the offices of the President’s lawyer? Whatever happened to attorney-client privilege? Eric Anderson, a retired member the US intelligence community, will join us to discuss. Have you filed your income taxes yet? Lydia Desnoyers, a CPA from for Miami, will give us some tips. And what about this Facebook controversy? We will talk to Dr. Robin Burke about how to protect your data. And finally, our old friend Andy Curry we’ll talk to us about how small communities are being crippled by big businesses like Walmart. Financial rape he calls it. So join us for lively show. Check local listings for times and stations. We will see you on the radio.

We are proud to announce that The Lisburn Press has just made available  a new novel called YELLOW JACK – This epic story begins in the 1800s down in New Orleans, following the 1853 yellow fever epidemic that killed nearly 9000 people. Greed precipitates a struggle between several families for absolute power. A fascinating novel based on a number of actual events. Author René Uzee has a great sense of history with his first novel. It’s a good read and available now by Clicking Here.

I guess for me the thrill is gone. I no longer get excited about March Madness. It’s more like March Sadness when you consider all the controversies facing college basketball today. Coaches and sports agents getting arrested, allegations of large payoffs to players and their families, athletes not even showing up for class and still getting a passing grade, it goes on and on. I love college basketball, but those in charge, primarily the NCAA, have really dropped the ball. I talk about this in my column now posted. You can read it by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

Our weekend radio show is close at hand, and we sure will have a lot to talk about. First, the sad state of college basketball, and implications for higher education. Then we will talk with Jeff Cohen who heads up the group called rootsaction.org, and we will discuss fake news that permeates the Internet. And should there be a baseball major league for women? Author John Leonoudakis will discuss his book about this subject, and give us his opinion. Also, criminal defense attorney Brian Wagner will give his views on Bill Crosby’s sexual assault retrial.  So tune in for a great show. Check local listings for times and stations. We will see you on the radio.

Louisiana Senators Reunion!

We often hear about that “Vision Thing.”Â  Something that way too often our political leaders ignore or don’t have. That’s the problem down in Louisiana right now. Legislators and the Governors are struggling with a big budget deficit, and have a whole litany of problems to solve. But there always seems to be a crisis mentality. No one appears to be looking ahead into the future, to set priorities and pave the path towards improving the quality of life for every citizen.  I talk about this lack of vision in my new column now posted. You can read it by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

We have a loaded show for this weekend, with a number of guests, and a long list of controversial topics. Obviously, gun control will be still on the front burner. Prof. Jerome Corsi, author of a new book called “Killing the Deep State” will join us to talk about practical responses to school shootings in the future. Also, what about these tariffs that President Trump is putting on competing countries? Is this the right thing to do? Steve Lester, with QMF steel, will join us to discuss. And finally, nationally recognized prison warden, Burl Cain, will join us to discuss his recent attendance at the funeral of Rev. Billy Graham. A great show planned, so check local listings for times and stations. We will see you on the radio.

 

I hope you have a Happy Easter.  I’ll be hanging out with grandkids and family over in Perdido Key, Florida where we gather for a go0d time over the Easter weekend.  We will be attending Easter morning church services at Our Lady of the Gulf Catholic Church in Gulf Shores, Alabama.  See you next week.

Among a long list of Louisiana heroes, is Warrant Officer Hugh Thompson from Lafayette. This week marks the 50th anniversary of an American slaughter called My Lie. American soldiers massacred innocent babies and old women by destroying their village and killing everyone there in cold blood. A helicopter pilot name Hugh Thompson witnessed the carnage taking place, and moved in to put a stop to it. It’s riveting and compelling story about real American heroism. You can read all about it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

Our weekend radio program is shaping up the civil guess, and lots of interesting topics. I would be getting a trade war? Pres. Trump has issued huge new tariffs on many imported goods. We will talk with Kim Olson who is the 2018 Democratic Nominee for Texas Commissioner of Agriculture. She will tell us what family farmers think of the prospect of a trade war. (www.votekimolson.org). And how safe is medical marijuana? Dr. Regina Nelson and Michael Browning, marijuana educators who coauthored “Time for the Talk: Talking to Your Doctor or Patient About Medical Cannabis,” will join us to discuss.  This and a whole host of other topics. So join us reliably program. Check local listings for times and stations. We will see you on the radio.

I hope you had an enjoyable St. Patrick’s Day. Depending on where you live, it’s a huge celebration. I was down in New Orleans for St. Patrick’s Day, and the Irish were everywhere. But it’s also different world out there. Traditionally, you give a lady on the parade route a rose, and she gives you a kiss. But boy do you have to be careful in this day and age. See the cartoon below. Be Careful if You are Irish!

The power of words! This is a short story about the life of ingenius Thomas Edison and his heroic mother! This story illustrates what power lies in our words! In fact, what we say and confess happens to us in life! Take care of your children, remember this story every time when you want to say that they are not able to do something, or someone finds them not skillful enough! Remember that your child is a genius, if you will not convince your child otherwise!

A new book on the New York Times bestselling list by mathematician and philosopher Nicholas Taleb concludes that politicians often fail because they generally have nothing at risk. There are no costs. They have no skin in the game. That is certainly true with the current Louisiana Legislature.  Letting the Bayou State grind to a halt has no down side for most of them. I look at the problem in my new column now posted.  You can read it by clicking on the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

Another weekend with a full agenda of issues and special guests on our Weekend Radio show. We will talk about why healthcare is so expensive in America with Seth Denson, president of GDP advisers.  (www.gdpadvisors.com).   Then it’s on the March Madness with the Sports Princess, Kate Delaney, talking about why basketball is so consuming right now. And finally, we will talk with author Mary Gehman, who has several new books available with ideas for potential authors. (www.dvillepress.com) Be sure and tune in. Check local listings for times and stations. We will see you on the radio.

My company, The Lisburn Press, has a new book out, and it’s a humdinger for you readers that love short stories. TROUBLESOME CREEK AND BEYOND – This perceptive collection of short stories have an Appalachian setting, with two of them occurring in the Caribbean. These fascinating tales deal with disparate subjects”“ winning the lottery, Vietnam and terrorism, substance abuse, child trauma, island ventures and existential choices. Author Bill Weinberg has captured the real sense of these complicated personalities coming from Appalachia. You can order the book now by Clicking Here.

Hey, it’s crawfish time down here in Louisiana. Our friends from outside the state don’t realize how these mudbugs take over our menus for the next several months. I’m planning a big crawfish boil, cooking up several hundred pounds, this weekend right after the St. Patrick’s Day parade in Baton Rouge. You all are welcome to come. Eating crawfish is a way of life down here in the Bayou State. If you’re not from down here, I hope you will have the chance to try them soon. You will be hooked. Do you know that 90% of the crawfish taken in ponds and lakes are kept and sold right here in the state? We just can’t let them go.

The governor in Louisiana says the state is broke, and he legislature just completed a do nothing special session. Financially, a reasonable summation would be that the state is in economic chaos. What to do, what to do?  A good bit of the state revenue is constitutionally dedicated. Hey here’s an idea. Why not call for new constitutional convention Bring Louisiana into the 21st century? This thought is not new. I suggested it back in 1987 when I ran for governor of Louisiana. Take a look at my thoughts as to why it’s necessary that we call for a constitutional convention, and write a new constitution. You can read my new column now by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

You might be surprised to find out a north Louisiana redneck like me was the author of  legislation back in the 1970s to create a French speaking commission in Louisiana. It’s called CODOFIL,  and today has programs in schools to continue the french tradition in my home state.  Many older folks in south Louisiana still speak french as their primary language.  I’ve traveled to France on a number of occasions, and always enjoy trying out my broken french.  I’m pictured below at a recent CODOFIL reception  with Louisiana’s  Lt. Governor Billy Nunguesser, who’s office oversees this important program.  Go to its website HERE.

Don’t underestimate the a abilities of our kids. Check out the acquired knowledge of a 6 year old who is allowed to meet an Etihad Airways’ pilot during his flight. You might be surprised as how knowledgeable this young man is. See below.

America’s favorite pastime? Why it’s baseball of course. I’m seeing it all first hand spending the week done in Tampa Florida, watching any number of major league teams prepare for the season in spring training. It’s an annual ritual I make. And, much to the chagrin of many of my readers, I’m a big Yankees fan. I write about my experience, my thoughts on the present condition a baseball, and just what the appeal is to so many Americans. You can read it now bye going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

And you can check out some of my Spring Training stops in the photos below.

Pictured above going for a hot dog at the Toronto Blue Jays Stadium.

Am axing the friends you make at the ball park.

Once a Yankees fan, always a Yankees fan…right?

We have a loaded show for this weekend, with a number of guests, and a long list of controversial topics. Obviously, gun control will be still on the front burner. Prof. Jerome Corsi, author of a new book called “Killing the Deep State” will join us to talk about practical responses to school shootings in the future. Also, what about these tariffs that President Trump is putting on competing countries? Is this the right thing to do? Steve Lester, with QMF steel, will join us to discuss. And finally, nationally recognized prison warden, Burl Cain, will join us to discuss his recent attendance at the funeral of Rev. Billy Graham. A great show planned, so check local listings for times and stations. We will see you on the radio.

 

 

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Jim Brown’s Common Sense

We all have seen the national campaign that if you see something, say something”“ Right? And all of us would agree this is a very effective tool in reporting possible criminal activity. But those that see something and say something certainly expect that reliable information will be acted upon. Way too often, legitimate information slips through the cracks. Unfortunately, we are seeing way too many instances of various federal and state law-enforcement agencies dropping the ball. I talk about it in my new column this week. Take a look and see what you think. You can read it now by clicking on the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

I  think this week it’s important to elaborate a bit on my column now posted about the frustrations of so many people over their “seeing something” and “saying something,” but no action is taken when possible crimes are reported  Newspaper print  limitations require  that my columns are keep no longer than 700 words.  I just cannot express the outrange that so many readers have expressed over the bungling and incompetence of the FBI in a number of cases.  I list just a few in my new column now posted.  But you can see form a few cardoons the feelings of many Americans.  I agree with Governor Scott of Florida.  Heads need to roll and the FBI needs a complete revamp from top to bottom.

Wow, do we have a full pack radio program should for this Sunday.Of course we’ll talk about guns in schools, how to protect all of our citizens, the total screw ups of the FBI and other law enforcemeat agencies, and much more. Look at the lineup below.

Just about every state in the nation is chomping at the bits to land the new Amazon second headquarters location. And for good reason. It means some 50,000 new jobs, and a $5 billion dollar investment in the state with the new location ends up. But how much cost does a state have to pay it to win over Amazon, and is it all really worth it? And what kind of a chance did Louisiana have in the first place? I explore all these questions in my new column now posted. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

A whole lot to talk about this weekend on our nationally syndicated radio program. Abraham Lincoln’s birthday (Just how great a president was he?), the success of Mardi Gras in New Orleans, and we will talk with Lauren A. Wright, Ph.D.,  a political analyst and Lecturer in Politics and Public Affairs at Princeton University, about the growth of the MeToo women’s movement.  Dr. ArLyne Diamond, President of Diamond Associates, will discuss this same important issue. So join us for a full packed program. Check local listings for times and stations. We will see you on the radio.

On Valentine’s Day, you had two choices depending on what side of the political spectrum you were on.  Which one  would you choose?

What a Mardi Gras season it was this year. The weather was perfect, the crowds were great, no serious crime problems. You can understand now why the New York Times named New Orleans as the number one “must see” destination in the world for 2018. The highlight for us was going to the Endymion Ball, and seeing Rod Stewart perform. Even an old guy like me was able to stay up in the  early morning hours. And then it all came to an end on Mardi Tuesday.  Fat Tuesday we call it.  Tuesday evening at the stroke of midnight. You can also see the mess that had to be cleaned up below. If you’ve never been to Mardi Gras, put on your list for 2019.

Daughter Campbell has been actively involved in making changes that Facebook is making to boost the quality of news content will help local publishers but significantly hurt some others. The resulting experiments, which are still ongoing, could ultimately cause some to re-consider working with the company altogether, said Campbell Brown, the company’s head of news partnerships. “If you’re a publisher who feels Facebook isn’t good for your business, you shouldn’t be on Facebook,” Brown told an audience at the Code Media conference in Los Angeles.  See her interview at the conference below.

Everybody loves a parade. Particularly if you live down here in my home state of Louisiana. Pres. Trump has stirred up a hornets nest over his suggestion that the country hold a National military parade one day each year, possibly on November 11. A good pick, because this year, November 11 is the 100th anniversary of the ending of World War I. The national media is roasting Pres. Trump over the parade idea saying it’s quite a waste of money. I don’t agree. Take a look at my new column now posted and see what you think. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

Wow!  We really have a full schedule with interesting guests coming up this weekend on the Common Sense Radio Show. What is Net Neutrality all about and who’ll be the winners and losers? Should the Internet be completely free? Tech expert Shelly Palmer will join us to discuss.  (ShellyPalmer.com).  And what to do about North Korea? Retired Air force Lt. Col. Eric Anderson will help us consider America’s alternatives.  Finally, how about the stock market, the Dow Industrial Average, hitting 26,000 then a big drop?  Barry Habib, CEO of the MBS Highway financial review, will join us to discuss.  So we have a great program planned.  Check local listings for times and stations.  See you on the radio.

Hey Gang-It’s Mardi Gras in New Orleans all this week. In fact parades and the overall Celebracion has been going on for the pass several weeks. It’s a special time of year, and if you’ve never made it to Mardi Gras, it should be at the top of your list.  Remember that the New York Times named New Orleans as the number one attraction in the world for 2018.  Check out the video below to give you a flavor of Carnival Time in the Crescent City.

So what’s up with all this controversy involving the FBI? Three different congressional investigations are going on, the FBI is in open warfare with the president, and allegations come out almost daily of missing emails, partisanship, and even “secret societies.” Shouldn’t our nation’s chief law enforcement department be above reproach, and not be involved in partisan politics? Good luck with that. Take a look at my column now posted about the long history of political involvement on the part of the FBI. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

It’s Super Bowl weekend, and we have a jam packed lightly show plan for all of our listeners. Frankie Russo, Advertising expert will join us to discuss the best and worst Super Bowl ads.  Then we will talk with Kyle Longley about his new book on President Lyndon Johnson and the tumultuous year of 1968.  And finally, Professor William Anderson, a writer and close observer of out of control prosecutors, will be our guest to discuss the recently released congressional memo that raises serious questions about the culpability of the FBI hiding key information in the Trump-Russian investigation. His fascinating website is found by Clicking Here.  So join us for quite a show.  We will see you  on the radio.

Skywatchers here in my hometown of Baton Rouge and around the world were treated to a rare Super Blue Blood Moon today (Jan. 31). While this was the first time in over 150 years that this particular type of eclipse has happened in the U.S., Americans can look forward to another “blood moon” eclipse coming on Jan. 21, 2019.

The bad news for us is that the next immediate total lunar eclipse “” when the moon appears to turn red as it passes through Earth’s dark inner shadow, or the umbra “” will occur later this year on July 27. But that eclipse won’t be visible from North America. However, much of the rest of the world “” South America, Europe, Africa, Asia and Australia “” will have a great view of that eclipse. I hope you saw the great view this week.

A new report from a Washington, D.C. think tank gives Louisiana an “F” grade for its insurance regulatory environment. Florida, that has a much greater Hurricane damage exposure, gets a “B” ranking. What’s going on? Why is Louisiana at the bottom of the barrel when it comes insurance regulation? I have a good bit of knowledge in this field, and take a look at the problem in this week’s column. You can read it now bye going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

The FBI is under siege and we will discuss the ramifications.  Is the criticism justified?  How long will flue season last and what can you do to protect yourself? Julie Walkup is a Certified Geriatric Care Manager at . She can talk about this story and what her company is doing during this crisis. And author Emily Cogburn will discuss how to write a first novel.  So join us for a lively program.  Check local listings for times and stations.  We will see you on the radio.

Marcia Ball raised the roof at the Red Dragon Listening Room last week in Baton Rouge. I’ve been a fan of Marcia’s music for over 40 years. That gal sure can play the boogie boogie piano. She is on a tour nationwide now, so they to catch her act.  You will be glad you did.

Daughter Campbell, since January, has been Head of News Partnerships for Facebook, and says it was important to equip people with the tools make informed decisions on the type of content they share. Below are her recent comments to the Foreign Correspondents Club in Hong Kong.

The Louisiana Governor and Legislature seem to be in free fall as they continue hollering that the fiscal sky is falling. The state is busted, and may have to shutdown many programs. But how serious is the financial problem, and how much is generally political hype? The state income keeps going up at a rapid rate. The state is losing population. So what’s the problem. I take a look at the outcry in this week’s column. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

Here’s a moving video to listen to in celebrating Martin Luther King’s anniversary. At Carnegie Hall, gospel singer Wintley Phipps delivers perhaps the most powerful rendition of  Amazing Grace . He says, “A lot of people don’t realize that just about all NegroSpirituals are written on the black notes of the piano. Slaves were not permitted to use the white keys. Probably the most famous on this slave scale was written by John Newton, who used to be the captain of a slave ship, and many believe he heard this melody that sounds very much like a West African sorrow chant.