You can lie to the fans but you can't lie to the players

When chickenhawks puff their chests, American Soldiers die.

I did my flag waving overseas . . .
Juan Torres
WWII - US Army - PFC 1st Class, Iwo Jima - Pacfic Corridor
Patriot, Devoted Husband, Father, Citizen-Soldier

Let us pray that the policymakers who continue to run this current war will come to realize there is a big difference between actions and words. God bless the soldiers.

American Hero

"Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends."
Jesus (John 15:13)

This tribute is for all the men and women who have fought bravely both here and abroad to secure liberty and to protect the weak.

May America never forget their efforts to preserve the Constitution. May they remain in our highest esteem. May we, as a Nation, deserve the rights they laid down their lives to protect.

God bless every public servant, every soldier and their families who have also paid the supreme sacrifice.

When Johnny Comes Marching Home Again

Traveli'n Soldier

Three days past eighteen
He was waitin' for the bus in his army greens
Sat down in a booth at a café there
Gave his order to the girl with a bow in her hair
He's a little shy so she gave him a smile
So he said would you mind sittin' down for a while
And talkin' to me I'm feelin' a little low
She said I'm off in an hour and I know where we can go

So they went down and they sat on the pier
He said I bet you got a boyfriend but I don't care
I've got no one to send a letter to
Would you mind if I sent one back here to you?

I cried
Never gonna hold the hand of another guy
Too young for him they told her
Waitin' for the love of the travelin' soldier
Our love will never end
Waitin' for the soldier to come back again
Never more to be alone
When the letter says a soldier's coming home

So the letters came
From an army camp
In California then Vietnam
And he told his heart
It might be love
And all of the things he was so scared of
Said when it's gettin kinda tough over here
I think about that day sittin' down at the pier
And close my eyes and see your pretty smile
Now don't worry but I won't be able to write for a while

I cried
Never gonna hold the hand of another guy
Too young for him they told her
Waitin' for the love of the travelin' soldier
Our love will never end
Waitin' for the soldier to come back again
Never more to be alone
When the letter says a soldier's coming home

One Friday night at a football game
The Lord's Prayer said and the anthem sang
A man said folks would you bow your heads
For the list of local Vietnam dead
Cryin' all alone under the stands
Was the piccolo player in the marching band
And one name read and no one really cared
But a pretty little girl with a bow in her hair

I cried
Never gonna hold the hand of another guy
Too young for him they told her
Waitin' for the love of the travelin' soldier
Our love will never end
Waitin' for the soldier to come back again
Never more to be alone
When the letter says a soldier's coming home

Dixie Chicks
Home
Words and music by Bruce Robinson - 2002

New Mexico State Police Officers are Arrested

This is a post where I responded to Greg Burton's blog which raises valid concerns regarding two New Mexico State Police Officers arrested last week after an altercation with Albuquerque Police Department Officers:

Greg,

I too share your concerns and wish to assure you that not all police officers share this mentality. The NMSP is an institution that has served its purpose well in the past but it is time for a change.

Owing to their exclusiveness regarding training (they have their own separate police academy) they have had a tendency to become highly guarded and elitist in their mentality. I think this is a dangerous precedent and the inexcusable behavior of these rookie officers belies deeply rooted and oft discussed shortcomings regarding NMSP by other agencies who have ever dealt with them throughout the state. It ressurects many people's concerns. To my way of thinking, the only logical thing to do is to restructure that organization such that it is no longer a free-standing entity that appears only willing to answer to itself.

I understand this proposition has a snow-ball's chance in hell of ever coming to fruition in the near future but, perhaps if enough people begin to talk about it, something good will come of it.

I do not believe however that this issue is particularly exclusive to NMSP. The recent imbroglio at APD and their Evidence Room Scandal has raised eyebrows in that direction as well. it is worth to note that APD has no intentions of pursuing the matter further despite the fact that roughly $200,000.00 is missing along with drugs and valuables from the Evidence Unit. Apparently, APD surmises that getting rid of Chief Gilbert Gallegos was a tidy way of sweeping the biggest scandal in APD's entire history under the rug. It stinks to high heaven.

It is imperative we all remind ourselves that police are Human Beings capable of making mistakes like the rest of us. The fact that they carry guns and have legal authority to assert the state's will at gunpoint if necessary can be unsettling because of the Human factor as evidenced in this latest run-in between NMSP and APD.

There is no room in any police department for questionable ethics because any lapses can have deadly consequences. If police are unaware of the caveat emptor regarding public service when they commence their police academy training, there is zero doubt they will be fully aware of it if they are lucky enough to complete it; the life of a police officer requires integrity; it is therefore subject to public scrutiny and thus, must be held to a higher standard.

Rest asssured, all police officers are totally cognizent that it is a privilege to wear that badge - moreover, they also know full-well what responsibilities are tied to that honor, bestowed upon them, by the public which they are sworn to protect and serve.

Lest we forget that, we as a society deserve the police department we are willing to accept.

For Whom the Bell Tolls

therefore, never send to know for whom the bell tolls; It tolls for thee.
John Donne

Upon hearing that her elderly grandfather had just passed away, Katie went straight to her grandparent's house to visit her 95 year old grandmother and comfort her. When she asked how her grandfather had died, her grandmother replied, "He had a heart attack while we were making love on Sunday morning."

Horrified, Katie told her grandmother that 2 people nearly 100 years old having sex would surely be asking for trouble. "Oh no, my dear,” replied granny. "Many years ago, realizing our advanced age, we figured out the best time to do it was when the church bells would start to ring. It was just the right rhythm. Nice and slow and even. Nothing too strenuous, simply in on the Ding and out on the Dong. "She paused to wipe away a tear, and continued, "he'd still be alive if the ice cream truck hadn't come along."

Thanks for the joke Marisa

Walter Cronkite shares his thoughts regarding today's media

In a democracy, dissent is an act of faith.
James William Fulbright

Walter Cronkite, one of this nation’s most beloved and respected Journalists recently expressed his concerns on Media Channel regarding the serious stifling of news reporting in America today. In his speech, the retired CBS anchorman lamented the 'dumbing down' of today's media. He also intimated his dismay that never before in US History, have American Journalists been more intimidated and unwilling to challenge the current powers that be.

America's Journalists seem oblivious to the reality that they are the only insurance the public has against utter and complete hegemony rearing its ugly head in the Whitehouse and in Congress. We can only lose this country if we remain silent. Such complicity can only lead to usurpation of the core principals which this country was founded upon. According to Mr. Cronkite,

"As I've said on other occasions, the strength of the American system is possible and can be nurtured only if there is lively and provocative dissent. In a healthy environment dissent is encouraged and considered essential to feed a cross-fertilization of ideas and thwart the incestuous growth of stultifying uniformity."

It is my hope that people will read Mr. Cronkite's prophetic warnings and realize the eminent danger facing our Democracy. Our Republic is at serious risk of being hijacked by well-meaning but misguided souls led by others with less noble intentions, bent on implementing a status quo tailored to suit their narrow agenda. If they succeed with this power grab, their efforts will not be rewarded by stability. Rather, their zeal to ‘protect’ the institution will prove to be it's very undoing.

In a call for unprecedented spirit of collaboration, Walter Cronkite encourages journalists and the Media Channel readership to use this nexus as a point to exchange uncensored information. When a nation can no longer openly discuss political, ideological, religious issues without fear of reprisal, it is at serious risk because it is no longer capable of protecting its weaker members from the strong. It is incumbent upon each of us that we keep all lines of communication open especially in light of the curtain of censorship that has recently descended upon journalism owing to corporate influences whose bottom lines do not necessarily coincide with the cherished principals of our Republic and the institution of Democracy.

It is important we debate and celebrate our differences openly. Variance over such perspectives becomes unhealthy for this nation when collectives pursuing their particular agenda have an undue advantage in asserting their will. When such groups implement their platform of ideas to the exclusion of others, they undermine the democratic process. Save for her Native American population, the United States is a nation of immigrants. This melting pot's unique cultures provide a wonderfully varied mix of ideas and world views. We hail from different regions across the country, regions which define each of us individually and as communities. We have a duty not only to respect them but to embrace them because that is the true definition of being an American. Out of sheer interests of self-preservation, we are compelled to uphold such tenets. For to ignore even one group of people's value will lead to this Nation's experiment with Democracy to reach an untimely demise. By remaining silent we foster an environment that opressively divides and conquers the many at the hands of a few.

America, it is time for us to take our country back. It is imperative that each and every American becomes aware of just how precarious America's future is at this crossroads in time. It is incumbent upon us to assert our right to exist free of fear because our Declaration of Independence, our Bill of Rights and our Constitution guarantee that right.

No matter that patriotism is too often the refuge of scoundrels. Dissent, rebellion, and all-around hell-raising remain the true duty of patriots.
Barbara Ehrenreich

Bad News for Tom Delay

From Democracy Now:
Texas Judge Fines DeLay's PAC Treasurer Nearly $200,000

A Texas judge ruled that Tom Delay's Texas political committee, Texans for a Republican Majority, violated Texas campaign law when it failed to disclose more than half a million dollars in corporate campaign contributions during the 2002 state legislative elections. We speak with the executive director of Texans for Public Justice. [includes rush transcript]

It looks like DeLay's house of cards is beginning to fall - this sets an interesting precedent for the pugnacious Republican House Majority leader. Tom DeLay's path toward felony conviction has begun. Praise the Lord and pass the potatoes!

Put a fork in 'em - he's done!

Bush on Propaganda

"All propaganda has to be popular and has to adapt its spiritual level to the perception of the least intelligent of those towards whom it intends to direct itself."
Adolf Hitler, Mein Kampf ("My Struggle"), Vol. I.B

President Bush made a telling remark this past week during one of his staged town hall meetings. Over the past several months, George Bush has conducted meetings with hand-selected supporters in towns across the United States. His intention is to bolster support for an unpopular Social Security reform initiative that he is pushing Congress for. Earlier this week, the President casually gave his take on propaganda. It sounded eerily reminiscent of Adolph Hitler's perspective. Compare the two statements and you can make the call:

"See, in my line of work you got to keep repeating things over and over and over again for the truth to sink in, to kind of catapult the propaganda."

President George W. Bush
Greece, N.Y., May 24, 2005

If you care to get a glimpse into how these Neo-Conservative folks think, check out this article from the Dissident Voice.

The Passion - the sequel; He's back and he's pissed

The Passion of the Christ: Part II
from Betty Bowers, Americas Greatest Christian

Newsweek Holy Qur'an Abuse Article not quite so 'Rathergate' after all

Does this *Holy Qur'an look like toilet paper to you?

Newsweek Article not as much of a black eye as Pentagon Documents
Never the less, Media gets Bitch-slapped- again and cowers - again.
Whitehouse = 1, Media = 0
Whitehouse wins by TKO

In light of the recent hoopla coming out of the 'scandalous' Newsweek release regarding abuse of the Holy Al Qur'an by military officials, it appears that not only the Liberals are lined up against the Neo-Conservatives holed up in the modern-day Alamo located on 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue; so is the Pentagon!

When Newsweek's, article on the Holy Qur'an's desecration at Guantanamo Bay broke on 9 May 2005, Whitehouse Spokesman, Scott McClellan hastily called press conference and orchestrated his attack invoking words like 'journalistic responsibility' to undermine the news organization's credibility. In retrospect, it has become evident he misjudged his jump on the trampoline of self-righteousness and landed in a minefield of embarrassing questions regarding prisoner abuse.

"It's puzzling that while Newsweek now acknowledges that they got the facts wrong, they refused to retract the story," White House spokesman Scott McClellan said. "I think there's a certain journalistic standard that should be met and in this instance it was not." "The report has had serious consequences," McClellan said. "People have lost their lives. The image of the United States abroad has been damaged."

Of course this gaff came about prior to the Pentagon's release of rather embarrassing documents that - well, sort of supported Newsweek's article after all.

It seems desecration of the Holy Qur'an as a means of breaking prisoner's resistance to interrogation at the hands of their American captors actually took place. Apparently, the recently forced retraction of Newsweek's publication regarding the atrocities was a bit premature. The story turned out not to be a fabrication after all. Newsweek took a serious beating at the hands of neo-conservative pundits and Whitehouse staff for publishing their article on the abuses. Newsweek's fatal error came in not nailing down sources who, when faced with risk of exposure, developed amnesia. Oh dayum! Newsweek buckled and the result was yet another black eye on the media as a whole.

Since Journalists are censored at the Whitehouse these days, they are not allowed to pitch hardballs at McClellan’s head; it is amazing that Scott swung at all. The Pentagon's release of documents stated abuses to the Holy Qur'an did in fact happen. Prior to this revelation, the Whitehouse's offensive against Newsweek, was unrelenting because they were confident that no tangible evidence existed to support Newsweek's allegations. McClellan maintained that the respected news agency had screwed the journalistic pooch. He smelled blood and saw it as another opportunity to make an object lesson out of journalists who dare to publish articles that might sully the Whitehouse's reputation.

Enter the ACLU. The Pentagon was compelled to release incriminating FBI information under the Freedom of Information Act regarding prisoners being held at Guantanamo Bay. Oops..

Well, now that they have been caught with their pants down, the Pentagon is trying to play down the abuses. According to the Washington Post's 27 May article, "Pentagon officials . . . . characterized the episodes as minor"

Of course, America knows all about what 'minor' abuse is like say; when the Supreme Court denied a Georgia Judge from placing a monument with the Ten Commandments inside a courthouse. The result was uproar from America's religious right. They lambasted the Federal Government and its - Republican-dominated - Judiciary for upholding the First Amendment designed to protect all Americans including those who do not happen to be of Judeo-Christian persuasions. The Religious right was up in arms that the US Constitution did not ask for but rather demanded separation of church and state. In their zealous fervor, the far-right Christian sects attempted to re-write history but they could not argue with the words specifically set into the document that reigns as supreme law in our land.

When a nation is religiocentric, nationalistic, and has a leader that claims to have been handpicked by God, that nation is bound to trample upon other people's religious beliefs. Basic Human rights violations are certain to occur when the Neo-conservative populace is imbibing such a heady brew. Such atrocities like those being perpetrated, in the name of 'Liberty and Justice for all,' at American-controlled interrogation/detention facilities are steadily being exposed and that is a testimony to journalists whose temerity has not completely compromised their deep-rooted inclination toward ferreting out the truth. Somewhere deep inside of such journalists resonates this uneasiness; American's believe that the ends do not justify the means. In short, there is a limit. Brutality has no place when we face an agressor whether on foreign or domestic soil. Whereas we can and should meet force with equal and opposite force sufficient to overwhelmingly defeat our foes, we ought not nay, we dare not, lower ourselves to committing atrocities in order to stop atrocities. When we violate our core principals, all of our principals cease to be of value anymore because they become subject to situational ethics. Plainly put; what is right on Sunday had better be right on Fridy. I am confident the vast majority of Americans maintain that point cannot, should not and will not ever be compromised with their blessing.

How odd indeed that a nation - purportedly settled by people in search of religious freedom - can have forgotten its historical precedents set out so eloquently in our Declaration of Independence and solidified in First Amendment of the United States Constitution.

With this spate of documented abuses steadily on the rise, Guantanamo Bay has become America's Gulag Archipelago, the Russian concentration camp that Nobel Prize writer Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn wrote his famous novel about.

So, what is the end result? The Media has been exonerated but the Whitehouse's rhetorical smear has nonetheless stuck. The Whitehouse ended up giving itself a black eye as well but somehow, the Media isn't making a big deal about it. Final analysis: Whitehouse = 1, Media = 0. Media wins the battle and the Whitehouse wins the war. Media gets bitch-slapped and cowers back to its corner.

*Note: I have purposely made reference to the ‘Koran’ as the Holy Qur’an out of deference to the millions of Muslim’s on this planet that uses it as their supreme spiritual reference. If my usage of this spelling causes discomfort, I invite the reader to, if only momentarily, adopt its spelling and treat it with the same reverence that Christian followers of the scriptures collected in the Holy Bible. Adopting such a mindset might better allow us to understand the moral outrage that followers of Islam have felt over its recent desecration. Perhaps then, as a people, we can empathize with other spiritual descendants of Abraham who believe in the same God but, who seek their spiritual guidance and who seek their solace from holy scriptures not so different from those found in Judeo-Christian traditions.

Mother Nature weighs in on Chavez' Mayoral Campaign

Apparently Mother Nature is unimpressed with San Martin de Dinero

NEWSFLASH: Marty to hold press conference later this week to announce establishment of a wind task-force!

beep beep beep . . . Nick Bakas to lead "Operation Rope the Wind" - All City Supervisors assigned shifts & given spiffy new "Marty's Air Force" vests - blood clot colored to match his campaign banner

What goes up must come down
Spinning Wheel

Some times, if you look just right at a spinning bike wheel, you can see it stopped instantaneously like a freeze-frame. Just in that moment, you can see every minute detail of it. Then just as quickly, it disappears. That 'emergency' phone call that Majordomo Martay 'had' to take in order to avoid being pummeled at the Bernalillo County Commission meeting (19 April 2005?) is our Mayor's freeze frame.

Marty has a weakness; he cannot handle open, un-scripted confrontation. He is running his campaign through pre-packaged press-releases. He threw his graffiti up on a Nob Hill building and no one called the Graffiti hotline. He has all the money he needs to paint himself as the 'Wizard of Aahs." He's rolling with his big buck homies and shouting out 'West Side" hoping to garner their vote.

Like the Kris Kristofferson song, ‘Pilgrim,’ Martin Chavez is,
”a walking contradiction partly truth and partly fiction;
Taking every wrong direction on his lonely way back home."

Martin Chavez is vulnerable - read the "13 points' in albloggerque's thread - interesting questions, pathetic defenses and no direct responses.

Albuquerque's future is for sale to the highest bidder by a man who shamelessly plugs himself (no pun intended) at the mere sight of a camera lens.

Albuquerque's Mayor, and self-proclaimed patron saint, San Martin de Dinero waltzes with the monied elites while reaching deep into their pockets.

Alan Armijo in Mayoral Race? Morning as Broken?

Johnny Mango just posted that Alan Armijo:
is not even lukewarm about tossing his hat into the ring for Albuquerque's upcoming Mayoral race.

Disappointment - Just plain disappointment.

Bernalillo County Commissioner, Alan Armijo has shown his mettle in the past taking Marty Chavez on - remember the Bernalillo County Commission Meeting and the confrontation over Mayor Chavez’ attempt to single-handedly dissolve the Joint Powers Agreement with the County regarding funding for the Metropolitan Detention Center? What a momentous event. No controlled environment of the press-release - people who know what they are talking about are free to talk back! But everyone there had seen the Mayor ruffling his feathers on the six-o'clock news about how he was bravely making a stand, 'representing the interests of the citizens of Albuquerque,' Alan admonished Snoop Mayor Martay when the self-aggrandizing politico dared to imply that the he was the only elected official who cared for Albuquerque. Marty then weakly, in an apologetic tone reiterated his commitment to, 'representing the interests of the citizens of Albuquerque' - it sounded scripted - a weak bark with no bite. He sounded like Wally on. "Leave it to Beaver," - "Gee wiz Mrs. Cleaver! I'm here to represent the interests of the citizens of Albuquerque!"

After Armijo's lesson in administrative procedure, Marty figured out a way to get the hell out of there. He ran away from the confrontation after receiving an all too convenient "pressing" cell-phone call that saved him from getting his ears boxed any further? Imagine the kind of lack of respect it takes to answer a phone call when you are in a meeting with another agency. Even if he is the Mayor, I am surprised at such a flagrant snub to a group of Bernalillo County's elected officials. In short, He talked smack on TV. He cowered and stumbled over his words when he went before the Commission and finally, he ran off before everyone had a chance to rebut and challenge his horn tooting in a previous press conference.

Unfortunately, it appears Alan Armijo remains uncommitted to duke-ing it out with the Great and Powerful Wizard. What a shame. Alan Armijo has the name recognition and his politics are all-inclusive. He promotes business and he does not exclude the poor. I thought this native son would have stepped into the ring and gone toe-to-toe with the pimp. I thought Alan Armijo just might be the one who could mobilize an effective attack on our incumbent Republican in Democrat's clothing. What a shame indeed.

Question: Maybe it just boils down to money . . . ?

Answer: It won't take money to beat San Martin de Dinero who is bankrolled by the West Side Gangsta Land Development Crew. It's going to take a big pair of - umm vocal chords.

Runaway Bride Indicted in Georgia today

Next scheduled appearance of Justice in Albuquerque . . .


"Mrs. Hogwallop done R-U-N-N-O-F-T."
Washington Hogwallop - O Brother, Where Art Thou?

Jennifer Wilbanks, the famed 'Runaway Bride' was officially charged today in Georgia for lying to the police and making false claims regarding her decision to run away from her upcoming wedding.

Thank heaven the Georgia Authorities had the presence of mind to uphold the law.

Unfortunately, we cannot expect the same of our local police force, the Albuquerque Police Department (APD). Motivated by the prospect of a positive photo opportunity after the black-eye they gave themselves in the recent Evidence Room Scandal, APD found a perfect opportunity to divert public attention away from the biggest scandal in their organization's history. They exploited the event to bolster their tarnished image as a 'kinder, gentler' police department who comforted the woman that wasted their valuable, limited resources and sent the police on a wild goose chase.

Instead of charging this woman for her willful and deliberate deception, the police gave her a teddy bear, a blanket to hide her from the public and an armed escort to the Airport. I didn't realize Jennifer Wilbanks life was in jeopardy. The escort she should have gotten was to the Metropolitan Detention Center. That is typically what happens to people who lie to police.

According to APD's official website, "Albuquerque's police officers are dedicated to upholding the constitution and laws of the State of New Mexico and the United States and the laws of the City of Albuquerque. Albuquerque Police officers strive to serve the community based on the following values: integrity, respect, pride and fairness."

I wonder, is APD going to cease charging people who lie to them about being kidnapped or raped from now on? Fair is fair. What happens when every attorney worth his salt in this town raises the "Runaway Bride' defense in front of our Magistrates? Let's see how that pans out.

Not too bad I would say; No one in APD was consequenced; no one was charged and no one will be prosecuted for evidence amounting to as high as $200,000.00 plus valuables, and drugs or evidence crucial to prosecution of who knows how many cases that remain unaccounted for and missing.

Innocence Lost: APD's Finest - arrested for Rape

Someday I'll wish upon a star
And wake up where the clouds are far
Behind me.
Where troubles melt like lemon drops
Away above the chimney tops
That's where you'll find me. . . .
Somewhere over the Rainbow

Albuquerque Police Department Chief Ray Schultz held a press conference to annnounce they had arrested one of their own Police officers, Detective Timothy J. Chavez, for raping a 14 year old girl. Detective Chavez, a 13 year veteran officer was assigned to the Vice Unit - a unit that mostly goes out and busts prostitutes - was identified by his 14 year old female victim as her attacker.

The unidentified female minor called 911 last week and stated she recognized the rapist at a local restaurant where she was at. The police dispatched an Officer on patrol nearby to the girl's location where the victim made contact with the Patrol Officer and identified her attacker as a person who happened to be driving an un-marked police car. The girl stated she met the her attacker on a chat-line and decided to meet him and that’s when Detective Chavez raped her.

Police collected DNA samples from Detective Chavez and determined in fact that his DNA matched the DNA collected from the young girl on the day she called and reported that she had been raped on 22 April, 2002. Chavez, 33 years old, claimed the sex was consensual but, as KRQE pointed out, at best, he still faces the charge of Statutory rape. He can kiss his carreer goodbye - that's definitely an act of moral turpitude.

Any bets this guy was playing, 'hide the pickle' with a few hookers as well? Keep watching that news - see what comes up as the investigation continues - my bet is a few people are going to come out of the wood work.

Detective Chavez was booked into the Metropolitan Detention Center earlier this evening - after the positive correlation was made based on DNA Evidence - on the charge of Criminal Sexual Penetration of a Minor. His bond was set at $75,000.00.

People this is exactly what I warned in three previous posts that we need to be careful not to be too trusting Police Officers who are, after all just Human. I received several hate e-mails accusing me of hating police. Let me make this point clear; not all Police Officers are bad, but there seems to be a sense of 'lax-ness regarding blanket, unquestioning trust of Police Officers since 911 - it seems like we are afraid to think that our protectors could be our victimizers. I sounded the cry three weeks ago and even submitted a letter detailing my concerns to the Albuquerque Journal in a letter to the editor - pay particular attention to theominous warning I gave at the end of that posting regarding futuure abuse of power. I was contacted by Harry Moskowitz because he said he needed to verify that I was not submitting the letter anonymously. I awaited the letter's posting. Nothing.

The letter has never been published.

I have maintained that post 9/11, police have been placed so high on a pedestal that they are breaking the law and are not subject to the same sanctions prescribed by the law for the citizens they are citing, investigating and arresting. In short, they are above reproach.

The Evidence Room Scandal should have been the clarion call for Albuquerque's citizens to have raised eyebrows. Unfortunately, the Albuquerque Journal has been remiss in not choosing to pursue the issue further, ostensibly because they have wrongly concluded that police popularity makes them above the law.

Now before anyone starts thinking I have an axe to grind with APD, please read my article, "No I do not hate Cops - Far from it" Posted last week - I was a Police Officer and recently finished my career in law enforcement; I loved my job, the people I worked for and the people I worked with. It was the best experience of my life. I love the US Constitution and I highly respect the work people in public service do. However, as has John Adams once said, "We are a country of laws, not of men."

If Timothy J. Chavez' DNA proves to incriminate him of the brutal rape:
-He has betrayed the public trust.
-He has sexually attacked a helpless child.
-He has smeared the image of decent, committed Police Officers.

Child sexual predators do not fare well in the Prison's General population.

Contender Winner - "Dreams come true."

Somewhere over the rainbow
Skies are blue,
And the dreams that you dare to dream
Really do come true.
Somewhere over the Rainbow

Sergio Mora is a Millionaire Tonight.

Sergio, Mora beat Peter Manfredo tonight in the nationally televised conclusion match-up of NBC's most recent reality series, The Contender. Peter Manfredo came to the fight with an impressive ranking of third in the world. Peter grew up around boxing rings all his life and came back with something to prove when he lost the very first fight to Alfonso Gomez. His father was a great boxer in his own right. The man was able to take a beating a he could give as good as he could get. In the end, skill speed and power delivered by the Latin Snake proved to be the winning combination; Mora came to box, Manfredo came to wrestle.

I really thought the final fight would end up being a show down between Alfonso Gomez and Sergio. Alfonso is going to be a force to recon with in the future. He is a smart fighter who does not back down. His combinations are as beautiful as they are methodical. As with Sergio Mora, Gomez' boxing skills prevailed over Jesse’s power. Nevertheless, this battle showed Jesse Brinkley was a worthy opponent. He is a smart kid and packs a hell of a right. For his efforts, Alfonso Gomez is Two-Hundred-Fifty-Thousand dollars richer. I still maintain the finial fight should have been between Alfonso and Sergio.

I know some people find Boxing to be a brutal sport and there is no doubt that severe damages often manifest themselves much later in Boxer's lives. All I can say in response is these young men did what they had to do. This match provided them a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to lift themselves out of poverty. Their courage is a testimony to the human spirit. There is no doubt these kids came up from the lowest ranks of society and out of America's mean streets. It is a different world where they come from. Life in a poor neighborhood is about survival and having the ability to defend your-self has its rewards. Jesse Brinkley said it best, "Shut up, Put up or go home."

Tonight, these young men earned their right to take their shot at winning a million dollars and a brand-new Truck. They showed a lot of heart and the better fighter prevailed. I respect these young men for their efforts. I have seen countless kids such as these who had the skill but lacked an opportunity. They never figured out a way to escape poverty. While the victory is compeling and filled wth emotion, the reality is actually sad; poor kids fight and people pay to see it.

I particularly admire these kids level of intelligence, commitment to their families and a whole lot of heart. Their respective personalities were nothing like the fictional character portrayed by Sylvester Stallone in the Rocky movie series.

Sergio Mora is a street-wise kid from East LA with a love for literature. Tonight, he proved his mettle with a convincing defeat of the East Coast powder keg from Providence, Rhode Island. Sergio is a brilliant kid and stands as a perfect example of what kind of people live in the barrios across America. All Sergio needed was a chance. Sergio referenced Brazilian Writer Paul Coelho’s, The Alchemist and rightly drew the analogy between himself and the central figure in the story, a Shepard named Santiago. Reflecting on his journey to the million-dolllar fight he found what Santiago did in the end; all the answers lie within.

Sergio said, “I have a chance to change her life. I have a chance to save my brother’s life. I have a chance to change my life.” My hope is that Sergio uses this win as a stepping stone to something other than a career in boxing. I hope this kid uses his money to acquire a much coveted University education. I hope he invests his winnings wisely. One thing is for sure, his mother will not be cleaning rich people's homes come tomorrow morning. Fortunately, Sergio has escaped a life of povery. Unlike children growing up in the same neighborhood as he did, his yet-unborn children will not have to rely on the myth of 'No Child Left behind.' Never mind that California and moreover, the United States have turned their backs on the poor people in this country because money fails to follow federal mandates. Sergio relied on what every kid in East LA has been forced to rely on; wits, courage and self-determination.

Congratulations Sergio - Dreams indeed do come true.

Miguel Martinez - New Mexico Artist

The hand that rocks the cradle rules the world
Abraham Lincoln

 The colours of the rainbow, so pretty in the sky
 Are also on the faces of people going by
 I see friends shakin' hands, sayin' "How do you do?"
 They're really saying "I love you"
What a Wonderful World

On 20 April 2002, my life changed forever. My daughter Kristiin gave birth to 'Jaja' Montoya. I cherish the boy with all my being. Like his uncle, he has a very engaging personality and is loved by all.

To commemorate my appreciation for the gift Kristin gave to us. I made a special trip to Taos, New Mexico and purchased a Giclee print of Victoria, painted by New Mexico Artist, Miguel Martinez - from Michael McCormick's Gallery.

Miguel Martinez' Iconic work, in my estimation is something which history will smile upon. Taos art critic Edwin Daniels wrote,

Their gestures express life's mysteries as they lower a translucent fan in invitation, encourage the wind to wrap a delicate lace across an exquisite cheek or full red lip. They beckon and romance and compel and becalm. And, as they slowly overwhelm the viewer's senses, they begin to reveal their secrets.

"You know her story by the expression she wears," explains Martinez. "These women are concerned with family life, their children, their sisters, friends...they also dream of people that at one time crossed their paths...."

Whether saints or seductresses, mothers or lovers, the women in the Martinez ocuvre are both iconic and accessible

I could not afford to commission a painting of my daughter although, when I spoke with his wife by telephone, I assured her I would when I had amassed enough wealth.

Kris is is a Real Estate Broker and is currently completing her matriculation at the local community college, TVI where she is preparing for admission into the Nuclear Medicine program this Fall at The University of New Mexico's Department of Radiologic Sciences.

None the less, the painting, Victoria is reminiscent of my daughter's features. I particularly appreciate Martinez' profound respect for women and his soulful depictions which truly capture the spirit of the Latina women whom I owe so much to

Thank you Miguel for your art,your compassion and your respectful celebration of women.

Open letter to Albuquerque's City Council regarding the Minimum Wage initiative

My Grandson, 'Jaja' at his Great Grandmother's yard in Los Duranes

I hear babies cryin', I watch them grow
 They'll learn much more than I'll ever know
 And I think to myself, what a wonderful world
 Yes, I think to myself, what a wonderful world . . . Oh yeah  
What a Wonderful World

I would like to read this letter before the Council on 5/25/05 but, it may be impossible. It is my understanding they have a 3 minute limit for people addressing the Council.

Distinguished Council Chair and Members of the Albuquerque City Council,

I was raised in Los Duranes, the oldest community in Albuquerque. My family has a rich history in this beloved homeland. My family's roots reach all the way back to the time when the first Europeans set foot in the New World. My lineage in this Land of Enchantment is even deeper owing to my Native American roots. I stand today before the distinguished council and offer my thoughts regarding the proposal before you to increase the minimum wage.

It was not until I attended college that I realized the family I grew up in, lived in poverty. I simply assumed people lived like me everywhere. I assumed my father's daily struggle to earn enough money to feed the family - without complaining about it - was what every American was doing because they loved their families as well. In retrospect, I recall my mother made miracles happen every day just to keep us fed. Together, they saw to it that we never went to bed with pangs of hunger in our stomachs. In that regard, we were blessed; to have a roof over our heads and our bellies full of food. My siblings and I never enjoyed such amenities as new clothes or shoes; they were purchased at the second-hand stores located about town.

My niece who was educated as a Registered Nurse and Elementary School Teacher had the privilege of student teaching at the very school, Los Duranes Elementary, where my siblings and I were first educated. Daily she would return with heart wrenching stories of children who live in homes with and cracks in the walls where beams of sunlight dance off the dust raised from dirt floors. Bear in mind, these residences, where some people in Los Duranes live like third world citizens are located only a quarter of a mile away from where Mayor Martin Chavez resides. The community of Los Duranes is separated by a five-foot high wall from the Mayor's affluent community, Thomas Village. This gentrified community was considered the northern most part of Duranes just twenty-five years ago. Lest you dismiss the children my niece described as offspring of recent immigrants, let me assure you, I recognize many of their parents and grandparents as the same people I attended school with nearly three decades ago. These people live in generational poverty. Where there is poverty, there is dispair. Where there is dispair there is no hope. A place berift of hope is fertile ground for self-destruction, hatred and rage. As a community, we cannot afford to allow this to persist.

I received one of my degrees in History from The University of New Mexico. It was there that I read the profound words of one of America's native sons. He rose from a simple life to become President of this great nation. In my opinion he stands out as one of the greatest Americans if not the greatest American in history. He said, "The measure of any society is how it treats the least of its members." Pretty profound words I would say. This greatest of orators was a member of the GOP, a Republican. His name was Abraham Lincoln.

Unfortunately, the people this Distinguished Council needs to hear from most could not be here tonight. They are either out busy working or have just gotten home and have to attend to the needs of their families as well. Just because they go to work, does not mean their work at home doesn't need attending to as well. These people most likely are not inclined to vote because the attendant realities of their lives call their attention away. Moreover, there are quite a few who have simply given up on their government and see themselves as disenfranchised, having no voice; not even in their local government. They do not move in your world and the lion's share of us remains blissfully unaware of their lot in life. They do however share something in common with you; they want a better life for their children.

I implore you today, on behalf of the little people - the people with no voice in this great city - to please leave all political expediencies aside this very day. I ask you as members of the community we commonly call Humanity, to make a bold statement that posterity is sure to shine upon when you vote to pass this Minimum Wage initiative. It is a good thing; it is a decent thing it is the right thing to do for the wage earners of this wonderful city.

Esteemed members of this Council, you have an ominous duty before each of you in having been elected into your respective positions to represent the needs of your constituency; whether they voted for you or not. When you go home tonight, know that you have done something you can feel genuinely pleased about, something you have the very real ability to effect. It is your privileged responsibility to implement. Pass this initiative and go home tonight knowing that a few people in this town will have just a few more dollars to live. Pass this initiative out of civic duty, dignity and respect for the working poor in this city.

We need to be at the forefront in America today when we finally acknowledge that the wage earner and the working people are this country's most precious resource.

God Bless: America, New Mexico, Albuquerque, and the members of this Council

Bush Threatens to Veto Stem Cell Research

And my head, I'd be scratchin'
While my thoughts were busy hatchin'
If I only had a brain.
If I Only Had a Brain - Wizard of Oz

Too bad! Now our great leader will never have a shot at getting a brain.

According to the LA Times, Mr. Bush, that boob in the Whitehouse who claims he has been called upon by our creator to lead our great nation, has vowed to veto stem-cell research funding,

"I made it very clear to the Congress that the use of federal money, taxpayers' money, to promote science which destroys life in order to save life — I'm against that," Bush told reporters in the Oval Office. "And therefore, if the bill does that, I will veto it."

Hmmm! Now, I'm just thinking here ... In war, is it neccessary to destroy an innocent life, in order to save life?

Apparently, our President is not as committed to protecting the innocent when he hears about hapless Afghan Taxi Drivers being tortured to death on his watch as Commander in Chief.

Since we are here already thinking, here's a thought to ponder; Are innocent Iraqis considered Gods Children too?

I suppose it ain't so much that we kill that God frowns upon but rather, the 'whos' and the 'hows' of it all. It doesn't look like funding for the science of war is on the chopping block any time soon. Thank Heaven for the economics of war.

Click on the headline above to see the story.
Note: The story is free however, you may need to sign-up with the LA Times to access it.

God Bless America - fearless protector of Liberty and beacon of light for Planet Earth

It aint me, it aint me no, I ain't no fortunate son, no
Creedence Clearwater Revival - Fortunate Son

Please take time today to read today's (5/20/05) New York Times Article about the brutal torture of two Afghan men who died at the hands of their American jailers. The article is self-expalnitory. Let me know what you think.

Ancient Greek Historian, Herodotus said, "Soft lands breed soft men" and I suppose the powers-that-be subscribe to that notion. However, it grieves me that our leadership who never spent any time in the belly of the beast called 'war,' and who even actively avoided being compelled to fight on the front lines can condone such brutality.

Musician Don Henley sang in The End of the Innocence, about the tragedy of young men going off to fight old men's wars but it seems even that has changed. Nowadays, chickenhawks call the shots from on high despite never having earned the right by placing their lives on the line to defend Liberty. America is now giving herself her own black eyes these days, thanks to her Fortunate sons who run this war with the sterility of a video game.

George W. Bush, Dick Cheney, Paul Wolfowitz and Karl Rove never saw a day in battle and yet, so many people have died because of ther unending quest to make our Republic their Empire.

Courage! What makes a King out of a slave?
Courage! What makes the flag on the mast to wave?
Courage! What makes the elephant charge his tusk, in the misty mist or the dusky dusk?
What makes the muskrat guard his musk?
Courage! What makes the sphinx the seventh wonder?
Courage! What makes the dawn come up like thunder?
Courage! What makes the Hottentot so hot? What puts the "ape" in apricot?
What have they got that I ain't got?
All Four: Courage!
Lion: Then you can say that again!

"Courage" from Wizard of Oz

Note: registration may be neccessary to view the NY Times article but it costs you nothing
Here is the high-lighted link in case the one above does not work.

http://www.nytimes.com/2005/05/20/international/asia/20abuse.html

Store Wars - Cuke Skywalker meets Darth Tader

This link is from the Organic Trade Association. Thanks to Dukes88 providing the link.

click on the headline above
or, copy this URL and paste it inot your address bar: http://www.storewars.org/flash/index.html

Remember . . . Never trust a Leek bearing grits!

American Star Wars - "Fear and loss is a path to the Dark Side"

My son Matthew, surprised me a couple of days ago with the announcement that we would be among the first to see the new Star Wars movie, Episode III. Matt pre-purchased tickets for us to attend The Revenge of Sith on premier day, at the Century Rio Theater located in downtown Albuquerque. We arrived an hour early. To our surprise, the line wasn't very long and the theater wasn't packed at all. From what I could see, only one light saber was brought to the theater. The woman seated next to me must have thought me nuts as she saw me struggle against the darkness to write a few choice quotes on my forearm and hand. Well, at least I wasn't dressed in character and I didn't bring any props. What's more, unlike my brothers who also attended the movie with us, I didn't bring a back pack filled with cokes, apples, Clif bars and who knows what other contraband. I love my loopy family.

Warning! You may want to hold off reading this post until you have seen the movie first. I discuss some points in the plot that are better off revealed in the movie. Otherwise, accept my caveat emptor made famous by Dante Alighieri who wrote in his Divine Comedy, 'Abandon all hope, ye who enter here."

The movie started a bit slow but quickly developed a momentum of its own with its story line about Anakin Skywalker's change in allegiance from the Jedi Council over to their rival, conservative-minded Siths as the archenemies began their all-out struggle for control over their Republic’s destiny. Anakin’s metamorphosis into Darth Vader was also paralleled with a subtle insight of what happens to a society that loses its bearings and supplants Democracy with a more insidious form of government which I can only describe as being Totalitarian and Fascist. According to the Media, George Lucas made an effort to draw the parallels between the fictional Siths and the very real Neo-conservatives currently in control of the Whitehouse and Congress; I am not convinced the message will make its way to the general audience who he actually intended to be its recipients. I think the delivery was much too subtle. Nonetheless, it was not a wasted effort and I commend him for having the cojones to address it at all.

Anakin’s transition also provided a psychological perspective regarding what happens once people have adopted a particular mindset as a core belief; any challenges to the contrary are apt to be summarily dismissed. It appears ideologies that provide quick, easy answers buffer themselves from any onslaughts aimed at challenging their pre-packaged messaging. They require no deep thought to maintain them once they have been internalized. Such ideology becomes something to defend to the death if need be. This was best evidenced as Obi Wan Kenobi, Anakin’s teacher was forced to destroy his protégé. As the deadly battle began, Obi Wan growled, "Only a Sith thinks in absolutes." Obi Wan Kenobi roundly defeated Darth Vader after an intense battle. However, he failed to dispatch the legless, one-armed and severely burned rival when he had the opportunity. However, in not vanquishing young Vader, Obi Wan Kenobi inadvertently presented him the opportunity to fight another day. As we are aware from the original Star Wars, this error in judgment will prove to be Obi Wan Kenobi's demise in the future. I can think of a few Neo-conservatives who think in absolutes and I can think of more than a few Democrats who left their opponents to fight another day.

On the other hand, people who resist adopting such a mentality are left with the unenviable Jedi task of fighting to preserve the deeper essence of Democracy. They realized that once the core underpinnings of Democracy have been lost, justice becomes a relic of the past. Consequently, out of profound reverence for their ideal of the Republic, the Jedi resolved to fight in order to preserve the Republic against overwhelming odds.

It seems as though one of the most effective means that a Fascist organization, intent on controlling the masses maintains, is its ability to perpetuate lie upon lie as a means of shielding its true intent to maintain power over the masses. For those of you who might be interested in delving deeper into how such a dramatic shift from Democracy takes place, I highly recommend you review, The Rise Of Pseudo Fascism,, written by David Niewert in February 2005. This scholarly essay is about seventy-five pages (if you include the cover page and 5 reference pages) long but it offers an incredible, contemporaneous analysis regarding Fascism which eerily makes ominous parallels between currently popular American Neo-Conservatism and the Fascist regimes of World War II Germany and Italy. It is not difficult to draw the same parallels with Episode III either. As such, it is well worth your time to sit and read.

The best line in the movie was uttered by Padmé Amidala, Anakin's wife (mother of Luke Skywalker and his sister, Princess Leia). Padmé bitterly remarked, "So, this is how liberty dies . . . [with] thunderous applause." - I was reminded of President Bush's speech to Congress after the 9/11 destruction of the World Trade Center - Padmé said this at hearing Chancellor Palpatine's (Darth Sidious) revelation to the powerless Senate that the Republic was no more. Palpatine further declared the Republic an Empire of which he was its Supreme leader. Prior to this declaration, it was also, mentioned in passing that the Siths now had control of both the Senate and the Courts. I briefly pondered whether the audience actually caught that warning and thought to make the connection with the recent hullabaloo arising from Republican Congressman Tom Delay and Senator Bill Frist's unpopular decision to take aim at the Judiciary in the Terri Schiavo Case (See my 29 March 2005 Archives posting entitled, Republicans, Terri Schiavo and Social Security).

In his bid to win Anakin Skywalker over to the Dark Side, Chancellor Palatine intimated, "Fear and loss is a path to the Dark Side" - and again, I was reminded of the 9/11 terror that gripped this country. It reaffirmed my belief that, as a nation, we were willing to accept extreme limitations on our Liberty because of our 'fear and loss.' It reminded me of our fervor to catch the terrorists and our resolve to do so even if it meant giving up certain freedoms. It reaffirmed why we supported implementation the Patriot Act.

At any rare, lest I be called an alarmist or conspiracy theorist, I will say this; Episode III - The Revenge of Sith was a thought-provoking movie but it did not live up to the media hype that promised to reveal the Neo-con agenda. It appears Washington has a pretty tight reign on Hollywood too.

However, if you squint just "right" (pun intended), you will see Dick Cheney, George Bush and Karl Rove and Condoleeza Rice huddled together underneath the Supreme Chancellor's hood. If you listen to Darth Vader's voice closely, you will hear Ann Coulter - although that is where the parallel falls apart; personal integrity is a necessary requisite in order to become a Jedi in the first place.

Get up, Stand up, Don't give up the fight

Advice to NM Democrats: Hang together or hang separately

We must all hang together, or most assuredly we shall all hang separately.
Benjamin Franklin

This post came up as a result of Barbara Conyers posting on Democracy for New Mexico blog. Barbara was voicing her concern over Governor Bill Richardson's amassing nearly three million dollars for his political machine. Ms. Conyers questioned why there was a need to have such a separation from the New Mexico Democratic Party. It is a good read and raises some valid concerns.

The Governor's office responded with a rather wordy screed, penned by Amanda Cooper, the Governor's Political Director. Ms. Cooper's rambling post made a call for unity and attempted to explain how the machine was effecting positive changes not only within New Mexico but in other states as well. I'm still scratching my head over what it all meant.

So, Barbara,

You are thus far silent on this. Is Amanda Cooper putting words in your mouth or is she accurate regarding her assessment of your 'meeting' with her? I, for one would like to hear from you. Are you silent out of agreement or out of compulsion?

Now, on to Governor Richardson and his machine via Ms. Cooper,

My primary concern is that it appears we Democrats have two options to choose from when we are making our decision to become active in the party:

1) We can join up with the NM Democratic Party or,
2) We can go with the Governor.

This separation does not bode well for our State or more specifically, for the Democrats currently in office who most definitely have bulls eyes painted on their foreheads by the Republicans.

Changing the topic but, only for a moment, I am also concerned at the Governor’s recent remarks regarding bloggers. Instead of embracing bloggers as a natural means of support and exploiting their talents, he seems content to ignore the march of progress and appears intent on locking himself in the proverbial tower. Why would he make such a categorical dismissal of all bloggers when he opined about lack journalistic integrity? Has anyone told him that bloggers aren't neccessarily journalists? Despite his concerns over blogging, can he honestly say he trusts networks like FOX and the brow-beaten Main Stream Media (MSM) to report the news? He has to be aware who is controlling the MSM's purse strings.

Is he really convinced the MSM is covering news in a 'Fair and Balanced' way or, was this a symbolic olive branch being handed to the press as a calculated means of winning them over. Is this overture an attempt to assuage their collective egos just in case he does decide to make run at the presidency in '08? I really don’t care whether he has decided to run or not and I would certainly throw all my effort into helping him make that dream come to fruition. I am nonetheless concerned that he is choosing to toss bloggers on the metaphorical grenade as it were.

Governor Richardson has worked to cultivate a public perception of himself as a forward thinking man of vision, I am just floored that he would ignore the power of the internet. He gained nothing by treating bloggers with veiled derision after making a rhetorical remark impugning blogger integrity. Does he really think they are simply going to go away?

I've always seen Bill Richardson as a leader with an eye toward the future and receptive to change. However, his hero worshippers aren't doing him any favors when the behave like 'yes-men.' What he needs are trustworthy, capable people who care enough reveal what he doesn't want to hear. It is evident that his most trusted associates have dropped the ball regarding the following reality; bloggers are here to stay. They are effecting local & national perspectives whether he likes it or not. Moreover, they are a wild card he would be well advised not to dismiss.

To dismiss bloggers is as short sighted as the French were when they built trenches in preparation for the Nazis in World War II. The technologically superior Nazi's blew past the archaic line of defense in their Blitzkrieg in 1940. Rest assured, the Republican, Neo-conservative political machine is alive and well. They are preparing to destroy whoever gets in their way. Governor Richardson has two choices; He can use bloggers or he can fight them but he cannot afford to ignore them. You fight misinformation with information.

I strongly suggest the Governor gets up to speed. He's a smart man and I admire him but I cannot understand how he is developing his own political machine completely disregarding the Democratic Party that worked so hard to help get him into office. This action has only served to raise eyebrows from two factions;

1) Old-style Democrats who have operated according to tradition and,
2) New-style Democrats who are daily improving their connections and developing vast networks thanks to the internet.

Undoubtedly, the Governor has a fancy, high-tech machine. But he’s going to need a road to drive that machine on in order to reach his destination – that’s where the old-style Democrats come in. He is also going to need some high-tech fuel to run that machine – that’s where the New-style Democrats come in.

Please Governor, bring us together.