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.
| Border moment |
 Herika Martinez / AFP / Getty Images
According to Agence France-Presse, these photos taken yesterday show several men helping a border jumper to climb a 20-foot wall to cross to Sunland Park, N.M., from Ciudad Juarez, Mexico.
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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.
Old politicians never die, but they do get together once a year for a reunion. My first elected office was to the Louisiana state senate back in 1971. Former senators traditionally get together each May at the Louisianan state Capitol in Baton Rouge, and it’s nice to see old faces and renew acquaintances. Actually, since I was one of the younger elected officials back in the 70s, many of my colleges have passed on.  Shown are a few old friends below.
Judge Oswald Decuir (above) has been a long time friend, even before we both were elected to office. He came to the Senate about the time I moved on to being Louisiana’s Secretary of State.
Mark Moriel (above) was a Senator, and then went on to be Mayor of New Orleans following in his father’s footsteps. He now heads up the National Urban League in New York. Mark’s dad, Dutch Moriel, practiced law with me for a while in the late 1980s and passed away too soon.
My Senate district was No. 32, encompassing a good bit of Northeast Louisiana. Pictured above are the four fellows that followed me as Senators.   From left to right, yours truly, Steve Thompson, Dan Richey, Neil Riser and Noble Ellington.
We often hear about that “Vision Thing.” 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.
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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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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. Â Remember that the New York Times named New Orleans as the number one attraction in the world for 2018. Â 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.
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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. Â Is the criticism justified? Â 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. Â So join us for a lively program. Â Check local listings for times and stations. Â 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. Â 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.
Video from KarmaTube
What a national championship football game last week! Alabama never led until the last second of overtime. So what does such a victory say about legendary coach Nick Saban? Many LSU fans don’t like him, saying he betrayed them. But he continues to win. So what’s the secret to his success? Take a look at my new column to see what I think, and see if you agree. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.
Wow! What a weekend show we have lined up. We will talk about the President’s daily rants and controversial remarks. Those “s”¦y African countries”? How many people would agree with him. Also, actor Mark Wahlberg received 100 times more money to reshoot the movie “All the Money in the World” then did his co-star Michelle Williams.” Was this fair? Gender expert Dr. Cortney Baker (www.cortneybaker.com) will join us to discuss. And will the new so called “health consumerism” work to keep prices down? We will ask Dr. Elaina George, who has written extensively about the subject. Click Here to learn more. Finally, it’s Girl Scout cookie time, but how bad are they?  We will ask Dr. Fab  Mancini( www.drfabmancini.com) about them.  So check local listings for times and stations. See you on the radio.
Is that a Valley Girl  talking to her friends?  NO, and like him or not,  it’s  our Prez speaking about how smart he is.  I like Einstein’s comments on being “really smart.”  But you have to admit, the Donald  sure keeps us amused.
Shown here is Pope Francis presiding over a Mass in the Sistine Chapel at the Vatican this past Sunday with Michelangelo’s famed frescoes on the ceiling overhead.I’v been to the Sistine Chapel on several occasions, and it it is breathtaking experience.  What a painting genius. I’m also reading Walter Isaacson’s Leonardo Da Vinci now. What a marvelous biography of another giant artist in the 15th century. They don’t make artistic geniuses like these guys today.
As the Music Man sang, there’s trouble in River City at LSU. The Bayou State’s flagship has had a bad few months. Mediocre football some people will say. But it’s much worse than this. What once was the outstanding university in the south has dropped way below average. What happened and what can be done? I write about the problem in this week’s column. You can read it now by clicking on the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.
A great weekend show lined up from our listeners. Dr. John Dyben joins us to talk about new discoveries of no addictive opioids. This could be a huge breakthrough. Also, certified counselor Leigh Richardson we’ll talk about eating fish and how it improves IQ scores and sleep. And finally, does the South get painted in one stroke so that everyone there thinks and acts the same? Scott McKay, Publisher of The Hayride, will join us to discuss. So join us for a lively program. Check local listings for times and stations. We will see you on the radio.
Well is it cold enough for you? We rarely get cold weather down here in the deepest of the southern states. I remember on a number of occasions going to swimming in my backyard pool in January. No way this year. We are supposed to get some snow in a few days, and the kids will love that. This is just a personal note from me and hoping that your New Year’s is going well, and you have a prosperous and productive 2018. And be sure and bundle up in the weeks to come.
Have you had your fill for the year 2017, and ready to move on? I sure am. On the national scene, Pres. Trump continues to stir the pot of conflict. Sure the president has a bully pulpit, but is he all that big a bully? And how about these federal judges that can’t even answer simple questions about enforcing the law? You’ll see some amusing tidbits on the questions that I hope the Senate will be asking in he future. Take a look at it all in my new column now posted. You can read it by clicking on the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.
We will broadcast our final radio program of the year on Sunday morning, and we review the highs and lows of 2017.  I hope you had a good year.  We will talk about special things that have happened in the past few months  and a new beginning for all of us.  So join us as we bring  in 2018. Check local listings for times and stations. We will see you on the radio.
State government in Louisiana and in many other states throughout the country are busted, and have little or no tax dollars for infrastructure and new road construction. What to do? There are creative solutions going on in a number of more progressive states. And a little thinking “outside the box” can bring in a great amount of new money. I talk about it this week in my new column. Take a look by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.
Time for our annual Christmas show. Here’s what’s on tap. Vincent Genna will give us a live psychic reading and to discuss why dead relatives might
very well make an appearance at your holiday gathering and why the season is so filled with spirits. Genna is a triple power psychic ““ a psychic with the knowledge and experience of a licensed psychotherapist, and the personality of a showman. And let’s begin getting in shape for the New Year. Trainer Bryant Johnson, the personal trainer for Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg, will give us some tips. So join us for a lively program. Check local listings for times and stations. See you on the radio.
The FBI is receiving a great deal of criticism and for good reason in many instances. Â Just look at a cross section of editorial cartoons below. Â You can see a consensus building that the supposedly nation’s top law enforcement agency is being accused of conflicts, being biased, playing favorites, leaking information to the press, grandstanding and being untruthful to congress. Â Hopefully, congress will sort out the entire FBI mess in their current hearings on these FBI conflicts. Â Here is the latest story of Congress investigating the FBI. Â The headline is quite clear.
House Republicans quietly investigate perceived corruption at  FBI
(For full story, Click Here)
Was it a sad ending for Republicans in Alabama over the loss of the U.S. Senate seat? Former Judge Roy Moore, a republican, lost what should have been a sure republican spot. But maybe it was a blessing in disguise. I explain this theory in my new column. Also, there is a special tribute to federal Judge Jim Brady, who unexpectedly passed away this week. A real loss. Â You can read the column now by clicking on the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking here.
Ready for weekend radio? The Alabama US Senate race, and the repeal of the net neutrality. Craig Aaron, President of the Free Press Action Fund will join us to discuss. How bad is sugar for you? Gary Taubes has written a new book called “The Case Against Sugar.” Finally it’s the Christmas season. Is there still a war against Christmas? And Renae Baker will join us to discuss. So check your local listings for times an stations. Happy holidays and see you on the radio.
What a tragedy taking place in California. The fifth-largest wildfire in California history expanded yesterday, ripping through dry brush atop a coastal ridge while crews struggled to keep flames from roaring down into neighborhoods amid fears of renewed winds.  This most recent fire was raced to encampment: Blaze was accidentally ignited at a homeless camp near L.A.’s most affluent homes. Look at these chilling photos below of raging fire and horses flee the flames.  How sad.
I’ve spent a good part of my life in New Orleans, certainly the most interesting city in America. I went to Tulane Law school the 60s, practice law there in the 70s, did a week day radio show beginning in 2005, and have had an apartment there often on for the last 54 years. I don’t ever recall it snowing, outside of a slight drizzle. The picture below shows all the snow New Orleans received just a week ago. I’m really sorry I was not there to enjoy it.
We’ve heard so much about the Russians hacking elections across the US. Is it possible to tamper with our voting machines and change the outcome of who wins political offices? Many think so, and offer a variety of solutions. One suggestion is to return to paper ballots. Their argument is that you can’t fix paper. Ah ha, but they’re wrong. I talk all about it in this week’s column that is now posted. You can read it by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.
Radio weekend is close at hand, with many subjects to discuss. Professor John Quigley, a professor emeritus of international law will join us to discuss the implications of moving Israel’s embassy. And the president wants to selloff thousands of acres from our national parks. Environmentalist Andy Curry gives us his view. Finally, Investment Management Specialist Vitaliy N. Katsenelson, will tell us about the fast rise of Bit coins. So join us for lively program. Check local listings for times and stations. See you on the radio.
Did you see the Supermoon this past Sunday night? We found a clear sport outside our house to watch it here in Baton Rouge. Â Check out the Supermoon rising in front of a replica of the Statue of Liberty, atop the Liberty Building in downtown Buffalo, N.Y., last evening. December’s full moon appears bigger and brighter in the sky as it sits closer than average to Earth. Sunday’s moon is the first of three consecutive Supermoons. The next two will occur on Jan. 1 and Jan. 31.
Another week, and another scandal involving the FBI. The top FBI agent booted from special counsel Robert Mueller’s Russia probe for trashing President Trump in partisan text messages to his mistress has also emerged as a key player in the investigation that cleared Hillary Clinton over her email scandal.
Peter Strzok, a lead investigator on both probes, was involved in everything from toning down the feds’ assessment of Clinton’s wrongdoing to the questioning that led to former Trump national security adviser Michael Flynn’s conviction last week for lying to the FBI, according to reports.  Strzok  was formerly the FBI’s No. 2 counterintelligence official, he served as Mueller’s lead investigator in the Russia probe.  So another blemish on the reputation of the FBI.
It’s reapportionment time in Louisiana. By federal law, every state has to reapportion its various political districts once every 10 years. That means the legislature, congressional districts, judicial districts, and the public service commission that is unique to Louisiana. So who does the reapportionment? Who decides what voters to pick? Did you know that legislators are allowed to carve out their own districts? That’s about as political as you can get. I talk about it in this week’s column. You can read it now by clicking on 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 24,000? 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.
Network Neutrality is usually defined as the principle that internet service providers (ISPs) should treat all online content equally without blocking or slowing down specific websites on purpose or allowing companies to pay for preferential treatment.  In other words, your internet provider cannot interfere with your right to access whatever you want.  But this may change. The FCC is considering abolishing net neutrality so that internet service providers can steer users to favored website and services, including their own.  Not good.  We all should keep a close eye on this fight.  Your freedom of expression and the right to a free flow of information is at stake.
The entire gun-control debate has heated up significantly following the shootings in Las Vegas, and at the church in a small Town in Texas. Both gun-control and gun rights activists blame each other. Is the debate frozen or what can be done? Well, actually a lot. You see, there are a number of laws on the books keeping dangerous people from having guns, but these laws are just not enforced. Before we start passing new laws, how about enforcing the ones we have right now? I talk about this my new column. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.
Happy Thanksgiving, and we hope you were all set this coming weekend for our “Common Sense” radio program. Author Matt Taibbi joins us to discuss his new book “I Can’t Breathe,” about police killings in the U.S. Author Ann Bailey will discuss her new book “The Weeping Time“ about slave acing. And our old friend, The Great Kristin will make predictions for the New Year. Â So join us for a Full packed program. Check local listings for times and stations. We will see you on the radio.
It was called the Race from Hell, and was probably the most observed gubernatorial election in the history of United States. 26 years ago this week, former Louisiana Gov. Edwin Edwards and David Duke squared off in a runoff election to determine who would be the next governor. Duke was head of the Ku Klux Klan across the country, and a huge controversial figure. And I was right in the middle of it all, running myself for Commissioner of insurance. Look back with me at this controversial election. I set it all out in my new column that you can read by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.
Radio weekend is close at hand what’s up full agenda topic in gash windup. We will talk with Harlan Ullman about his new book, “Anatomy of Failure”“ Why America loses Every War It Starts.” Then Chef Dominic Condo will discuss the many ways Italians incorporate their traditions and culture into holiday dishes. And will judge Roy Morris stay in the US Senate race? Will former VP Joe Biden run for President again? Lots to talk about so tune in. Check local listings for times and stations. We will see you on the radio
I’ve been to this cathedral before on a visit to Florance.  A worker in Florence, Italy, climbs atop Santa Maria del Fiore cathedral’s Brunelleschi Dome to perform maintenance works and regular checks this week.  In the background is the famous Giotto’s Campanile, or bell tower.  Quite a site.  How would you like to be up there with this guy?
Why don’t more people go vote? There have been a series of elections all over the country, yet turnout has been abominable. There’s an election in a few days down here in Louisiana, and projections are that only 10% of registered voters will bother to show up at the polls. Does that say something about the voters, or maybe the election process itself? I write about reasons for low voter turnout in my new column this week. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.
The Common Sense Radio Show we’ll be on the air soon, and we’ve a lively program scheduled for this weekend. First up is America’s moneyman, Jordan Goodman, who will explain the new proposed trump tax plan. Check out Jordan’s website at www.moneyanswers.com. And are you ready for Thanksgiving travel? The guy in know, travel expert Keith Nowak, we’ll share inside tips on how to save money and save your sanity when planning a trip. And have you seen the new movie, LBJ, about the life of the former president? It’s in all the movie theaters now, and one of the movie’s stars, Jeanne Caldarera, will join us to talk about the picture. So we have much news to cover, and we hope you will tune in. Check local listings for times and stations. We will see you on the radio.
For those of you who  check out my website regularly, you know that I  enjoy discussing good health and ways I try to stay in shape.Watch out for some of us old guys. We can be pretty tough with our workouts in the gym. Eat your heart out  all you young guys in our family. And remember:
You don’t step on Superman’s cape,
You don’t spit in the wind,
You don’t pull the mask off the ole’ Lone Ranger,
And you don’t mess around with Jim.
There’s a new debate starting across the country. Should be mandatory for gun owners to carry insurance? Many think so, and five states are considering legislation to require gun insurance right now. They argue it is mandatory in all states to have car insurance. Why not get gun insurance? I look at issue from the insurance perspective in my new column now posted. Take a look and see what you think. You can read it now but going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.
Wow, what a week for news. The indictments of Trump allies, terrorist attack in New York City, it seems like major stories break daily. We will cover all this on our weekend radio show. Matt Taibbi will join us to discuss his new book I Can’t Breathe, about the Eric Gardner story in on Staten Island. (Read more by Clicking Here. ) The noted author Ann Bailey will discuss her new book, The Weeping Time about slave auctions in the South. (Click Here). Â And finally, our old friend, The Great Kreskin will talk about his long time relationship with Johnny Carson. (www.AmazingKreskin.com). Â So join us for a lively program.(www.AmazingKreskin,com). Â heck local listings for times and stations. We will see you on the radio.
Do you celebrate the Day of the Dead?  I do. Day of the Dead, or Dia de los Muertos, is the Mexican holiday when people celebrate and honor loved ones who have passed away. Celebrations typically run from Halloween, October 31, to All Saints Day, November 2. Non-Mexicans may recognize the sugar skull aesthetic from their friends’ ill-advised Halloween costumes, but many may not realize where the iconography of skeletons bearing flowers, fruit and candy comes from. Is it even possible for someone who isn’t from Mexico to celebrate the holiday without being an annoying gringo? It’s complicated, but not impossible. So I give it a try each year.  Above is my quick painting of the skull seen all  over Mexico this week.  And check out the video below.
I’ve always wanted to paint and draw. Â But I never seemed to find the time,And I knew I really wasn’t that talented anyway. But a recent trip to San Miguel, Mexico gave me the opportunity. San Miguel is a wonderful small Mexican town full of budding artists. So I gave it a shot. A local studio and art gallery took me on, and I was able to paint several images. Sure, I still have a long way to go. But I found a new hobby. Take a look above and see what you think.
Are you ready for the World Series? Baseball has really taken off, with the largest viewership for the playoffs in many years. When it comes to professional football, lots of empty seats in the stands. And politics has never been hotter in this country. So what is America’s favorite pastime? Football, baseball, or politics. Check out my column and see what you think. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.
I’ll be out of the country this weekend.  Tough family wedding duty in San Miguel, Mexico, one of the premier tourism destination spots in the world. So you’re stuck with Leo Honeycutt and Rannah Gray this week.  I say”stuck” and just kidding, because they did a great show last week, and you can look forward to a lot of fun, review news of the week, and hear some in-depth interviews on this week’s show. So be sure and  tune in. Check local listings for times and stations. We will all see you on the radio.
The annual Louisiana Book Festival has grown in to one of the top readers and writers gatherings in the country. It will be held this weekend, October 28th, at the Louisiana State Capitol of Baton Rouge. Our publishing Company, The Lisburn Press, always has a presence at the book festival. Several of our authors will be speaking this year. For a complete list of speakers and presentations, Click Here. You can also find out about the various publications of The Lisburn Press by Clicking Here.
Check out the cover of this week’s New Yorker magazine. The world of automation is on us. A friend of mine here in Louisiana just ordered a driverless car. He says it can do anything, go pick up your kids from school, or anything else you want to program into the system. Government regulations require that someone be in the car. But it shows you how the world is changing. On my radio show this week, I talked about the future of robots. They will be caregivers, fix your dinner, clean your house, change your kid’s diapers, and do any number of amazing things. But look at all the people that will lose their jobs. My how the world is changing.
So it seems like the state of Louisiana threw this election party, and nobody showed up. The voter turnout in the recent statewide election was the lowest in memory. Nobody really seemed to care. The New Orleans Times Picayune blames it all on the voters, saying they should be ashamed of their abysmal apathy. But is it really the fault of the voters? Why in the heck does Louisiana have so many elections to begin with? I analyze the problem, and possible solutions in my new column. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.
So much in the news to talk about on this weekend’s radio program. An update on” taking a knee” by NFL football players. And what’s all this stuff about Bit Coins? Los Angeles attorney JR Landis will explain the rapid development of crypto currency and how it works. Is this the future of how we raise and spend money? American’s top restaurants, staying healthy, and some new good books all will be on the agenda. We will talk Napa Valley wildfires with winery owner Susie Selby (www.selbywinery.com), and how to survive a mass  shooting attack with former British Army Officer Chris Bird.  (www.rivateerpublications.com.).  So be sure and tune in for a lively program. Check local listings for times and stations. We will see you on the radio.
Sally Quinn, noted journalist and news anchor, as well as the widow of Washington Post editor Ben Bradley, was a guest on my nationally syndicated radio program this last weekend. She has a fascinating book out called “Finding Magic-A Spiritual Memoir.” I stayed up late one evening reading it, and would highly recommend the book, where she talks of life in Washington, the news business and the magic she finds in religion and the occult. One of her best stories is about an incident where the FBI came to interview her and promised to keep her comments confidential. Her response? “I burst out laughing, Are you kidding?” I certainly have the same distrust of the FBI. You can find out more of her book by Clicking Here.
We live our daily lives, and are glad when the bad guys are arrested and put in jail. But sometimes, prosecutors mess up. By and large, we have good prosecutors at both the state and federal level. But there are bad eggs in every batch. A fellow named John Thompson quietly died last week. And he was the victim of one of the worst cases of prosecutorial misconduct that ever happened in America. And it never should’ve happened. Yet nothing, nothing will happen to those who falsely accused and then put this man in jail for 18 years. Read my new column now posted and see what you think. This is a real American tragedy. You can read it now by Clicking on the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.
We are all set for a fast-paced and lively radio program this weekend. So much to talk about. Wild fires in California, the end of healthcare subsidies, and why do people become mass murders? Also, the sports princess, Kate Delaney joins us to talk about taking a knee on the football field. And finally, media personality and Washington insider Sally Quinn, who is the widow of Washington Post editor Ben Brantley, will join us to discuss her new book. So be sure and tune in. Check local listings for times and stations. We will see you on the radio.
I’ve been a big Tom Petty musical fan for many years. He is one of America’s great songwriters, and, sadly, he died last week at the young age of 66. My favorite Petty rendition is his song “I Won’t Back Down.” The song is quite personal to me, because I relate it to my run in with the Justice Department, and the prosecutorial misconduct that has been allowed to fester in the New Orleans U.S. Attorney’s office. I talk about such misconduct in my new column posted this week. And I wrote about similar misconduct, in fact, outright criminal activity by prosecutors, in my book Justice Denied. Take a listen to Petty’s anthem for justice in America.
Have you weighed in on the “taking a knee” controversy as the Star Spangled Banner is being played at sporting events across the country? Does it really make any real difference if some use our national anthem to protest? Or is this the time and place? I must admit I have some pretty strong views about this issue as well as flying the American Flag. Take a look at my thoughts and see if you agree. You can read my new column now bye going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.
Hey, do we have a great radio show plan for this weekend. Our regular broadcasting time it’s Sunday morning, from 9 AM a.m. till 11 AM schedule time. Various stations round the country may rerun, or have different times, so check local listings for times and stations. Of course we’ll talk about the Las Vegas massacre. Should machine guns be illegal? Should a going to order be allowed to upgrade his rifle to machine gun by using a bump stock? Rich Emberlin will join us who is a 30 year law-enforcement veteran and has appeared on the number of TV shows discussing gun issues. Also, some people want to do away with Christopher Columbus statues and names. He was a slave owner. How far do we go? Andre DiMino represents the ‘Italian American One Voice Coalition’ and will join us to discuss. And finally, Richard Chamberlain, owner of Chamberlain’s Steak and Chophouse in Dallas, joins us to discuss how much to tip in a restaurant. So tune in for a lively show. We will see you on the radio.
Some folks up north just can’t seem to stop taking pot shots and the supposedly “backward” South. A few Yankee pundits are even calling for a wall. No, not to keep out Mexicans, but to block off southerners. When will these reprobates just let it go? I write about the north-south tensions in my new column 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.
Radio Program Schedule to be posted Friday Afternoon.
Familiar Evil is the title of one of the most gripping true crime stories published in recent years.  I t has won numerous awards. Check lout more about this book by Clicking Here.
Will the recent storms, the did so much damage in Texas and Florida, cause their insurance rates to go up? What makes the cost of insurance go up in the first place? Shouldn’t these companies be sticking back the money they’re taking in for a rainy day to pay out all the claims? And why does Florida have lower insurance rates then does Louisiana, even though much of Florida is exposed to hurricane damage? All these are questions I look into in this week’s column. You can read it now by clicking on the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.
Americans are extremely protective of their rights. We don’t want government interfering in anything we do. But how about the right to determine just when you shutdown your life? That does when government steps in, and says you have no choice. Is this right? Should you have a choice? Take a look at my column this week on the right to live in the right to die. See what you think. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.
Weekend radio we shaping up well, and we hope you’ll join us for lively show. We will talk to former United States Sen. John Breaux about the lack of cooperation in Washington. We will also talk with Seth Siegel, an expert on water throughout the world. And Jeff Dorson joins us to talk about dealing with dealing with pets in a time crisis. So check local listings for times and stations. We will see you on the radio.
