Erica Jong Tells Italians Obama Loss 'Will Spark the Second American Civil War Blood Will Run in the Streets'

Wow, are we that uncivilized to launch an all-out civil war in America if Barack Obama loses the election? According to the New York Observer, author and feminist Erica Jong expressed her concerns in an interview with the Italian daily Corriere della Sera. Jong said, as excerpted from the NY Observer, her fear that Obama might lose the election has developed into an "obsession. A paralyzing terror. An anxious fever that keeps you awake at night." She also says that her friends Jane Fonda and Naomi Wolf are extremely worried that Obama will be sabotaged by Republican dirty tricks, and that if an Obama loss indeed comes to pass, the result will be a second American Civil War.

Here's the English translation of her more spirited quotes to the Milan-based Corriere, as selected by the NY Observer and Rocca.

"The record shows that voting machines in America are rigged."

"My friends Ken Follett and Susan Cheever are extremely worried. Naomi Wolf calls me every day. Yesterday, Jane Fonda sent me an email to tell me that she cried all night and can't cure her ailing back for all the stress that has reduces her to a bundle of nerves."

"My back is also suffering from spasms, so much so that I had to see an acupuncturist and get prescriptions for Valium."

"After having stolen the last two elections, the Republican Mafia…"

"If Obama loses it will spark the second American Civil War. Blood will run in the streets, believe me. And it's not a coincidence that President Bush recalled soldiers from Iraq for Dick Cheney to lead against American citizens in the streets."

"Bush has transformed America into a police state, from torture to the imprisonment of reporters, to the Patriot Act."

She also laments that not all of America's men of letters share her devotion to Obama."

If this isn't a load of sh**, the I don't know what else is. One thing I will say, I agree that President George Walker Bush made a complete mess of things. The last thing we need is advice for Hanoi Jane. Well, Ken Follett was one of my favorite novelists, but I didn't realize he was a flake. Oh well, on to the next novelist.....

Erica Jong Tells Italians Obama Loss 'Will Spark the Second American Civil War Blood Will Run in the Streets'

Wow, are we that uncivilized to launch an all-out civil war in America if Barack Obama loses the election? According to the New York Observer, author and feminist Erica Jong expressed her concerns in an interview with the Italian daily Corriere della Sera. Jong said, as excerpted from the NY Observer, her fear that Obama might lose the election has developed into an "obsession. A paralyzing terror. An anxious fever that keeps you awake at night." She also says that her friends Jane Fonda and Naomi Wolf are extremely worried that Obama will be sabotaged by Republican dirty tricks, and that if an Obama loss indeed comes to pass, the result will be a second American Civil War.

Here's the English translation of her more spirited quotes to the Milan-based Corriere, as selected by the NY Observer and Rocca.

"The record shows that voting machines in America are rigged."

"My friends Ken Follett and Susan Cheever are extremely worried. Naomi Wolf calls me every day. Yesterday, Jane Fonda sent me an email to tell me that she cried all night and can't cure her ailing back for all the stress that has reduces her to a bundle of nerves."

"My back is also suffering from spasms, so much so that I had to see an acupuncturist and get prescriptions for Valium."

"After having stolen the last two elections, the Republican Mafia…"

"If Obama loses it will spark the second American Civil War. Blood will run in the streets, believe me. And it's not a coincidence that President Bush recalled soldiers from Iraq for Dick Cheney to lead against American citizens in the streets."

"Bush has transformed America into a police state, from torture to the imprisonment of reporters, to the Patriot Act."

She also laments that not all of America's men of letters share her devotion to Obama."

If this isn't a load of sh**, the I don't know what else is. One thing I will say, I agree that President George Walker Bush made a complete mess of things. The last thing we need is advice for Hanoi Jane. Well, Ken Follett was one of my favorite novelists, but I didn't realize he was a flake. Oh well, on to the next novelist.....

NY City Transit Cop Comes Forward To Tell Account Of Alleged Sodomy Of Michael Mineo By Eight Cops

I deliberately waited a few days before writing about the latest alleged case of police brutality in New York City. The latest twist in this sodomy assault comes as a NYPD transit cop breaks ranks to implicate his fellow officers and is offering to tell what he saw the afternoon Michael Mineo allegedly said he was sodomized on a subway platform.

According to the NY Daily News, the cop's account of what happened "is bad" for the other three officers accused by Michael Mineo of sodomizing him with a radio antenna on a Brooklyn subway platform Oct. 15. The transit cop's lawyer is talking with the Brooklyn district attorney's office about his client coming forward to give his version of events.

A little background.... Three patrol cops from Brooklyn's 71st Precinct chased Mineo after supposedly seeing him smoking a marijuana cigarette. The transit cop arrived as Mineo was arrested, sources said. Mineo, 24, was issued a summons for disorderly conduct and released.

Brooklyn District Attorney Charles Hynes called a grand jury to investigate the incident based on Mineo's medical records and the divergent witness accounts. Mineo was hospitalized four days after the incident, and released Tuesday after another, five-day stint in the hospital. All officers remain on full duty.

It would be sad if this is another Abner Louima-type case. It seems the New York's Finest has been called on this type of behavior before. I will reserve judgment and wait until the facts in the case are revealed. I seem to recall Sean Hannity and others saying that Abner Louima had engaged in rough gay sex, but that was farthest from the truth and he went on to receive the largest settlement in New York City history for police brutality. Let me also remind you that the Justin Volpe, the ringleader, was imprisoned for what he did to Mr. Louima. I must applaud this transit cop for coming forward to tell his story. So many times, there seems to be a brotherhood among police that they will not squeal on each other.

To read more about the case, CLICK HERE....

NY City Transit Cop Comes Forward To Tell Account Of Alleged Sodomy Of Michael Mineo By Eight Cops

I deliberately waited a few days before writing about the latest alleged case of police brutality in New York City. The latest twist in this sodomy assault comes as a NYPD transit cop breaks ranks to implicate his fellow officers and is offering to tell what he saw the afternoon Michael Mineo allegedly said he was sodomized on a subway platform.

According to the NY Daily News, the cop's account of what happened "is bad" for the other three officers accused by Michael Mineo of sodomizing him with a radio antenna on a Brooklyn subway platform Oct. 15. The transit cop's lawyer is talking with the Brooklyn district attorney's office about his client coming forward to give his version of events.

A little background.... Three patrol cops from Brooklyn's 71st Precinct chased Mineo after supposedly seeing him smoking a marijuana cigarette. The transit cop arrived as Mineo was arrested, sources said. Mineo, 24, was issued a summons for disorderly conduct and released.

Brooklyn District Attorney Charles Hynes called a grand jury to investigate the incident based on Mineo's medical records and the divergent witness accounts. Mineo was hospitalized four days after the incident, and released Tuesday after another, five-day stint in the hospital. All officers remain on full duty.

It would be sad if this is another Abner Louima-type case. It seems the New York's Finest has been called on this type of behavior before. I will reserve judgment and wait until the facts in the case are revealed. I seem to recall Sean Hannity and others saying that Abner Louima had engaged in rough gay sex, but that was farthest from the truth and he went on to receive the largest settlement in New York City history for police brutality. Let me also remind you that the Justin Volpe, the ringleader, was imprisoned for what he did to Mr. Louima. I must applaud this transit cop for coming forward to tell his story. So many times, there seems to be a brotherhood among police that they will not squeal on each other.

To read more about the case, CLICK HERE....

Anti-Obama Carnival Sparks Heated Outrage at Texas A&M

The Texas A&M Young Conservatives of Texas got a little more than they bargained for yesterday. They were trying to get people's attention, but it backfired. On Wednesday, the group, encouraged students to throw eggs at a large picture of Barack Obama during a campus demonstration.

It was part of what the group called an "anti-Obama carnival." Conservatives said the egg toss was symbolic of Obama's economic policies, but many in the crowd called it a personal attack. According to KBTX.com, by mid afternoon, the signs at Texas A&M were gone. The emotions were not. "You have plenty of McCain supporters out here who think this is ridiculous. Ya'll are way out of hand," said Farren Congress, a Blinn College freshman who caught the demonstration on her way to cast an early vote.

The conservatives' anti-Obama carnival came with a "socialist on a stick Obama ring-toss," and a board with the candidate's picture on it that the group offered to let students throw eggs at called "throw away your nest egg."

One would believe that since these are college students, they would be a little more mature. It is okay to disagree with Obama's policies and his positions, but how is egging his picture a plausible statement? Not even my seven year old son would resort to such a level of immaturity.

Texas A&M University issued an official statement about the demonstration: "A university campus is a marketplace of ideas. While we found today's activity offensive and not representative of Texas A&M's core values, we certainly respect the free speech of students on our campus. We are of the opinion that there are more appropriate and constructive ways to engage in a dialogue in advance of the upcoming elections." Of course, in an act of ridiculous defiance, the Young Conservatives say they'll bring the carnival and egg toss back this Friday, but will have Obama's economic policies as the target, and not just his picture.

Anti-Obama Carnival Sparks Heated Outrage at Texas A&M

The Texas A&M Young Conservatives of Texas got a little more than they bargained for yesterday. They were trying to get people's attention, but it backfired. On Wednesday, the group, encouraged students to throw eggs at a large picture of Barack Obama during a campus demonstration.

It was part of what the group called an "anti-Obama carnival." Conservatives said the egg toss was symbolic of Obama's economic policies, but many in the crowd called it a personal attack. According to KBTX.com, by mid afternoon, the signs at Texas A&M were gone. The emotions were not. "You have plenty of McCain supporters out here who think this is ridiculous. Ya'll are way out of hand," said Farren Congress, a Blinn College freshman who caught the demonstration on her way to cast an early vote.

The conservatives' anti-Obama carnival came with a "socialist on a stick Obama ring-toss," and a board with the candidate's picture on it that the group offered to let students throw eggs at called "throw away your nest egg."

One would believe that since these are college students, they would be a little more mature. It is okay to disagree with Obama's policies and his positions, but how is egging his picture a plausible statement? Not even my seven year old son would resort to such a level of immaturity.

Texas A&M University issued an official statement about the demonstration: "A university campus is a marketplace of ideas. While we found today's activity offensive and not representative of Texas A&M's core values, we certainly respect the free speech of students on our campus. We are of the opinion that there are more appropriate and constructive ways to engage in a dialogue in advance of the upcoming elections." Of course, in an act of ridiculous defiance, the Young Conservatives say they'll bring the carnival and egg toss back this Friday, but will have Obama's economic policies as the target, and not just his picture.

Lawrence Eagleburger, Former GOP Secy of State, John McCain Adviser, Says Sarah Palin Not Qualified

If this isn't a slap in the face from another Secretary of State, then I don't know what else is. Lawrence Eagleburger, former Secretary of State and one of John McCain's most senior advisers offered a bleak and frank assessment that Sarah Palin is incapable of handling the presidency, should such an outcome arise, if McCain wins the election.

You see, the irony here is that McCain trumpets Eagleburger's endorsement. He said that Palin is not only unprepared to take over the job on a moment's notice but, even after some time in office, would only amount to an "adequate" commander in chief.

"And I devoutly hope that [she] would never be tested," he added for good measure -- referring both to Palin's policy dexterity and the idea of McCain not making it through his time in office. Damn!

This slap in the face came during an interview on National Public Radio that was, ironically, billed as "making the case" for a McCain presidency. Asked by the host whether Palin could step in during a time of crisis, Eagleburger reverted to sarcasm before leveling the harsh blow.

"It is a very good question," he said, pausing a few seconds, then adding with a chuckle: "I'm being facetious here. Look, of course not."

Eagleburger explained: "I don't think at the moment she is prepared to take over the reigns of the presidency. I can name for you any number of other vice presidents who were not particularly up to it either. So the question, I think, is can she learn and would she be tough enough under the circumstances if she were asked to become president, heaven forbid that that ever takes place?

"Give her some time in the office and I think the answer would be, she will be [pause] adequate. I can't say that she would be a genius in the job. But I think she would be enough to get us through a four year... well I hope not... get us through whatever period of time was necessary. And I devoutly hope that it would never be tested."

According to the Huffington Post, the indictment of Palin was all the more biting because both she and McCain have held Eagleburger up repeatedly during the past several weeks as evidence that the Republican ticket has firm standing and support within foreign policy circles. So, Gen. Colin Powell was absolutely right in his comments about Palin. To be honest, I have always found John McCain to be one of the Republicans that I could tolerate and I would have even given him a chance, but when he opened his mouth, I realized he had no clue on what ails the economy and how to fix it. What solidified my decision not to vote for him was his choice of a running mate. Sarah Palin, for lack of a better word, is a idiot, who can't even get the duties of a vice president right. John McCain literally ridiculed Gen. Powell for his scathing comments about Sarah Palin and now Eagleburger shares Powell's sentiments. Well, who is the idiot now?

Lawrence Eagleburger, Former GOP Secy of State, John McCain Adviser, Says Sarah Palin Not Qualified

If this isn't a slap in the face from another Secretary of State, then I don't know what else is. Lawrence Eagleburger, former Secretary of State and one of John McCain's most senior advisers offered a bleak and frank assessment that Sarah Palin is incapable of handling the presidency, should such an outcome arise, if McCain wins the election.

You see, the irony here is that McCain trumpets Eagleburger's endorsement. He said that Palin is not only unprepared to take over the job on a moment's notice but, even after some time in office, would only amount to an "adequate" commander in chief.

"And I devoutly hope that [she] would never be tested," he added for good measure -- referring both to Palin's policy dexterity and the idea of McCain not making it through his time in office. Damn!

This slap in the face came during an interview on National Public Radio that was, ironically, billed as "making the case" for a McCain presidency. Asked by the host whether Palin could step in during a time of crisis, Eagleburger reverted to sarcasm before leveling the harsh blow.

"It is a very good question," he said, pausing a few seconds, then adding with a chuckle: "I'm being facetious here. Look, of course not."

Eagleburger explained: "I don't think at the moment she is prepared to take over the reigns of the presidency. I can name for you any number of other vice presidents who were not particularly up to it either. So the question, I think, is can she learn and would she be tough enough under the circumstances if she were asked to become president, heaven forbid that that ever takes place?

"Give her some time in the office and I think the answer would be, she will be [pause] adequate. I can't say that she would be a genius in the job. But I think she would be enough to get us through a four year... well I hope not... get us through whatever period of time was necessary. And I devoutly hope that it would never be tested."

According to the Huffington Post, the indictment of Palin was all the more biting because both she and McCain have held Eagleburger up repeatedly during the past several weeks as evidence that the Republican ticket has firm standing and support within foreign policy circles. So, Gen. Colin Powell was absolutely right in his comments about Palin. To be honest, I have always found John McCain to be one of the Republicans that I could tolerate and I would have even given him a chance, but when he opened his mouth, I realized he had no clue on what ails the economy and how to fix it. What solidified my decision not to vote for him was his choice of a running mate. Sarah Palin, for lack of a better word, is a idiot, who can't even get the duties of a vice president right. John McCain literally ridiculed Gen. Powell for his scathing comments about Sarah Palin and now Eagleburger shares Powell's sentiments. Well, who is the idiot now?

John McCain Undermines His Campaign, Told Larry King Obama isn't a Socialist

After going around saying that Barack Obama was a socialist and hammering him for the "lipstick on a pig" comment, John McCain has undermined his campaign by saying Obama isn't really a Socialist and he wasn't calling Sarah Palin a pig.

Here is the transcript from his appearance on the Larry King Show last night:

KING: You don't believe Barack Obama is a socialist, do you?

MCCAIN: No. But, I do believe -- I do believe that he's been in the far left of American politics. He has stated time after time that he believes in "spreading the wealth around." He's talked about courts that would redistribute the wealth.

He has a record of voting against tax cuts and for tax increases. And I don't think there's any doubt that he would increase spending and he would, sooner or later, we would be increasing taxes. There is no doubt in my mind that that's what his record -- 94 times he voted to cut taxes -- against tax cuts and for tax increases. He voted for -- and that's what matters. Not rhetoric. To raise taxes on individuals making $42,000 a year.

KING: Concerning spreading the wealth, isn't the graduated income tax spreading the wealth? If you and I paid more so that Jimmy can get some for him, or pay for a welfare recipient, that's spreading the wealth.

MCCAIN: Well, that's spreading the wealth in the respect that we do have a graduated income tax. That's a far cry from taking from one group of Americans and giving to another. I mean, that's dramatically different.

Sen. Obama clearly has talked about for years, redistributive policies. And that's not the way we create wealth in America. That's not the way we grow our economy. That's not the way we create jobs.

And when small business people see that half of their income, half of the income of small businesses is going to be taxed by Sen, Obama, then they're very upset with it.

KING: He says, it's only the personal income tax. If you run a store, if you make $250,000 or more, as a personal income, not a business income, that's where he's (INAUDIBLE).

MCCAIN: And that's where his folks just reduced it to $200,000. And then Sen. Biden yesterday said $150,000. And the fact is that if Joe the Plumber is able to buy the business that he works in, the guy that he buys it from is going to see an increase in capital gains taxes. They're going to see an increase in payroll taxes. They're going to see -- if he reaches a certain level, an increase in his income taxes. And that's what got people concerned. That's what's got Joe the Plumber upset. He wants to redistribute the money.

KING: Doesn't taxes pay for services?

MCCAIN: Taxes pay for services.

KING: (INAUDIBLE) taxes.

MCCAIN: But, do we want -- taxes pay to keep our government secure. To help those who can't help themselves. And other functions of government, which, by the way, expanded by some 40 percent in the last eight years and gave us a $10 trillion debt

KING: Under Bush.

MCCAIN: And to the last two years, under Democrat majorities in the House and Senate.

But, that's the job of government. But it is not the job of government that I believe in, that would take a group of Americans who have some money and say, we're taking your money, and we're giving it to others. This 95 percent tax cut he's talking about for 95 percent of Americans -- 40 percent of Americans pay no income tax. So he is just going to give them some money. Where is he going to get it? He is increasing taxes for other groups of Americans. That's his plan.

KING: What are you going to do?

MCCAIN: I'm going to keep taxes low. I'm going to ...

KING: Where they are?

MCCAIN: Sure. Absolutely

John McCain Undermines His Campaign, Told Larry King Obama isn't a Socialist

After going around saying that Barack Obama was a socialist and hammering him for the "lipstick on a pig" comment, John McCain has undermined his campaign by saying Obama isn't really a Socialist and he wasn't calling Sarah Palin a pig.

Here is the transcript from his appearance on the Larry King Show last night:

KING: You don't believe Barack Obama is a socialist, do you?

MCCAIN: No. But, I do believe -- I do believe that he's been in the far left of American politics. He has stated time after time that he believes in "spreading the wealth around." He's talked about courts that would redistribute the wealth.

He has a record of voting against tax cuts and for tax increases. And I don't think there's any doubt that he would increase spending and he would, sooner or later, we would be increasing taxes. There is no doubt in my mind that that's what his record -- 94 times he voted to cut taxes -- against tax cuts and for tax increases. He voted for -- and that's what matters. Not rhetoric. To raise taxes on individuals making $42,000 a year.

KING: Concerning spreading the wealth, isn't the graduated income tax spreading the wealth? If you and I paid more so that Jimmy can get some for him, or pay for a welfare recipient, that's spreading the wealth.

MCCAIN: Well, that's spreading the wealth in the respect that we do have a graduated income tax. That's a far cry from taking from one group of Americans and giving to another. I mean, that's dramatically different.

Sen. Obama clearly has talked about for years, redistributive policies. And that's not the way we create wealth in America. That's not the way we grow our economy. That's not the way we create jobs.

And when small business people see that half of their income, half of the income of small businesses is going to be taxed by Sen, Obama, then they're very upset with it.

KING: He says, it's only the personal income tax. If you run a store, if you make $250,000 or more, as a personal income, not a business income, that's where he's (INAUDIBLE).

MCCAIN: And that's where his folks just reduced it to $200,000. And then Sen. Biden yesterday said $150,000. And the fact is that if Joe the Plumber is able to buy the business that he works in, the guy that he buys it from is going to see an increase in capital gains taxes. They're going to see an increase in payroll taxes. They're going to see -- if he reaches a certain level, an increase in his income taxes. And that's what got people concerned. That's what's got Joe the Plumber upset. He wants to redistribute the money.

KING: Doesn't taxes pay for services?

MCCAIN: Taxes pay for services.

KING: (INAUDIBLE) taxes.

MCCAIN: But, do we want -- taxes pay to keep our government secure. To help those who can't help themselves. And other functions of government, which, by the way, expanded by some 40 percent in the last eight years and gave us a $10 trillion debt

KING: Under Bush.

MCCAIN: And to the last two years, under Democrat majorities in the House and Senate.

But, that's the job of government. But it is not the job of government that I believe in, that would take a group of Americans who have some money and say, we're taking your money, and we're giving it to others. This 95 percent tax cut he's talking about for 95 percent of Americans -- 40 percent of Americans pay no income tax. So he is just going to give them some money. Where is he going to get it? He is increasing taxes for other groups of Americans. That's his plan.

KING: What are you going to do?

MCCAIN: I'm going to keep taxes low. I'm going to ...

KING: Where they are?

MCCAIN: Sure. Absolutely

Matt Drudge, Creator of The Drudge Report, Loses Grip on the U.S. Media

I came across a very interesting commentary in the Financial Times newspaper. It seems that Matt Drudge has lost his edge. Everything negative that he has reported about Barack Obama has literally backfired. Doesn't this remind you of the "Teflon President" Ronald Reagan? Well, the article states that it was a shocker in the tradition of Mr Drudge’s scare stories and hyped-up trivia about Democratic candidates in US presidential campaigns, to go with past items about John Edwards’ $400 haircut and John Kerry’s windsurfing. This time, however, it was not merely tendentious but false. I actually wrote about Matt Drudge featuring a picture of Barack Obama kissing a white woman in Ohio. It seems that Drudge was trying to start a fire, where there was none. Barack Obama's mother is white. Since when kissing a white woman became a big deal. Was he trying to remind us of Jim Crow? That was a cheap shot.

Drudge has spent the past month blatantly cherry-picking poll results that favor John McCain, to the loud derision of Obama-supporting blogs, of which Black Political Thought is one. He deliberately shows poll results for one group of voters and not the others. Drudge has cried wolf so often in recent weeks and it is a real shame.

To read more on this article, CLICK HERE.....

Matt Drudge, Creator of The Drudge Report, Loses Grip on the U.S. Media

I came across a very interesting commentary in the Financial Times newspaper. It seems that Matt Drudge has lost his edge. Everything negative that he has reported about Barack Obama has literally backfired. Doesn't this remind you of the "Teflon President" Ronald Reagan? Well, the article states that it was a shocker in the tradition of Mr Drudge’s scare stories and hyped-up trivia about Democratic candidates in US presidential campaigns, to go with past items about John Edwards’ $400 haircut and John Kerry’s windsurfing. This time, however, it was not merely tendentious but false. I actually wrote about Matt Drudge featuring a picture of Barack Obama kissing a white woman in Ohio. It seems that Drudge was trying to start a fire, where there was none. Barack Obama's mother is white. Since when kissing a white woman became a big deal. Was he trying to remind us of Jim Crow? That was a cheap shot.

Drudge has spent the past month blatantly cherry-picking poll results that favor John McCain, to the loud derision of Obama-supporting blogs, of which Black Political Thought is one. He deliberately shows poll results for one group of voters and not the others. Drudge has cried wolf so often in recent weeks and it is a real shame.

To read more on this article, CLICK HERE.....

Exxon Mobil Posts Biggest Profit in U.S. History

Well Exxon Mobil Corp. has set a quarterly profit record for a U.S. company, surging past analyst estimates. The company said its third-quarter net profit was $14.83 billion, or $2.86 per share, up from $9.41 billion, or $1.70, a year earlier. That profit included $1.45 billion in special items.Exxon's prior record was $11.68 billion in the second quarter of 2008.

The company said its revenue totaled $137.7 billion in the third quarter. According to CNN Money, Exxon's earnings were buoyed by oil prices, which reached record highs in the quarter before declining. Oil prices were trading at $140.97 a barrel at the beginning of the third quarter, and had fallen to $100.64 at the end. Compare that to 2007, when prices traded at $71.09 a barrel at the beginning of the third quarter, and rose to $81.66 by the end.

So, why does Exxon Mobil need tax credits from the government? Isn't this the argument that Barack Obama has been making? So, while the economy is in the tank, Exxon managed to make history once more. Ain't America great?

Exxon Mobil Posts Biggest Profit in U.S. History

Well Exxon Mobil Corp. has set a quarterly profit record for a U.S. company, surging past analyst estimates. The company said its third-quarter net profit was $14.83 billion, or $2.86 per share, up from $9.41 billion, or $1.70, a year earlier. That profit included $1.45 billion in special items.Exxon's prior record was $11.68 billion in the second quarter of 2008.

The company said its revenue totaled $137.7 billion in the third quarter. According to CNN Money, Exxon's earnings were buoyed by oil prices, which reached record highs in the quarter before declining. Oil prices were trading at $140.97 a barrel at the beginning of the third quarter, and had fallen to $100.64 at the end. Compare that to 2007, when prices traded at $71.09 a barrel at the beginning of the third quarter, and rose to $81.66 by the end.

So, why does Exxon Mobil need tax credits from the government? Isn't this the argument that Barack Obama has been making? So, while the economy is in the tank, Exxon managed to make history once more. Ain't America great?

Barack Obama Hits Prime Time Air Waves, Makes Case

Barack Obama made the case in his prime time debut. I think he sold a lot of American voters on his "promise of change." He spoke from an Oval Office-style set, which will irk some people, and narrated real Americans' stories of tough times for which he promised fresh hope and answers.
"In six days, we can choose hope over fear, unity over division, the promise of change over the power of the status quo," Obama told a live rally from Florida at the ad's conclusion. "In six days, we can come together as one nation, and one people, and once more choose our better history."

It was a strategically brilliant move on Obama's part. From its opening image of a rippling field of golden grain to shots of small-town USA, Obama's epic echoed the style pioneered by Ronald Reagan's famous feel-good "It's Morning in America" ads from his 1984 re-election campaign. The underlying message: An Obama Democratic presidency could restore American confidence and prosperity at a time of uncertainty on many fronts, just as the Republican Reagan did a generation ago.

Barack Obama reminded us of his own humble beginnings and the struggles he faced growing up. He talked about the struggles of families from across the land--real life issues confronting the average American.The ad also painted a stark picture of a nation's troubles: a couple struggling with medical bills, the worker in fear of a plant closure, the mom working two jobs.

The campaign bought ad time on NBC, CBS and Fox, spending about $1 million per network, as well as time on MSNBC, BET, Spanish-language Univision and TV One, a cable network geared toward African-American viewers.McCain took his shots before the ad aired, saying Obama paid for the stylish production with "broken promises."Talk about a "grumpy old man." If he's so confident, why did his campaign start Robocalls in Arizona? Barack Obama made his case and staked his claim to a piece of American history. Funny that McCain spokesman Tucker Bounds could infer that Barack Obama is buying the election. Wasn't President Bush handed the election by the Supreme Court? How fair was that to the millions of voters across the United States? Look at the outcome of Bush's term in office?

Barack Obama Hits Prime Time Air Waves, Makes Case

Barack Obama made the case in his prime time debut. I think he sold a lot of American voters on his "promise of change." He spoke from an Oval Office-style set, which will irk some people, and narrated real Americans' stories of tough times for which he promised fresh hope and answers.
"In six days, we can choose hope over fear, unity over division, the promise of change over the power of the status quo," Obama told a live rally from Florida at the ad's conclusion. "In six days, we can come together as one nation, and one people, and once more choose our better history."

It was a strategically brilliant move on Obama's part. From its opening image of a rippling field of golden grain to shots of small-town USA, Obama's epic echoed the style pioneered by Ronald Reagan's famous feel-good "It's Morning in America" ads from his 1984 re-election campaign. The underlying message: An Obama Democratic presidency could restore American confidence and prosperity at a time of uncertainty on many fronts, just as the Republican Reagan did a generation ago.

Barack Obama reminded us of his own humble beginnings and the struggles he faced growing up. He talked about the struggles of families from across the land--real life issues confronting the average American.The ad also painted a stark picture of a nation's troubles: a couple struggling with medical bills, the worker in fear of a plant closure, the mom working two jobs.

The campaign bought ad time on NBC, CBS and Fox, spending about $1 million per network, as well as time on MSNBC, BET, Spanish-language Univision and TV One, a cable network geared toward African-American viewers.McCain took his shots before the ad aired, saying Obama paid for the stylish production with "broken promises."Talk about a "grumpy old man." If he's so confident, why did his campaign start Robocalls in Arizona? Barack Obama made his case and staked his claim to a piece of American history. Funny that McCain spokesman Tucker Bounds could infer that Barack Obama is buying the election. Wasn't President Bush handed the election by the Supreme Court? How fair was that to the millions of voters across the United States? Look at the outcome of Bush's term in office?

Jamaican-Born Disco Diva Grace Jones Says Sarah Palin Stands For Backward Vision Of America

What the hell is this? Oh, it's Grace Jones.

Here's a blast from the past coming around Halloween. Grace Jones, Jamaican-born disco diva, said she was sorry Hillary Clinton had failed to make the cut in the US election and that she "can't stand" folksy vice-presidential candidate Sarah Palin. She told the German magazine TV Spielfilm that Palin stood for the backward vision of America laden with government restrictions of sexuality and social behavior. Ouch, but does it matter, coming from Grace Jones?

"I would have loved it if Hillary Clinton had pulled it off," Jones said, in an interview published in German marking the release of her new album."I can't stand Sarah Palin. I bet a woman like that has no sense of humor."

The androgynous Jones, who conquered dancefloors and runways from New York to Paris in the 1980s, said she believed in her own form of sexual liberation. Really Grace?

According to Spielfilm, she said she had fallen afoul of feminists for stunts such as "appearing naked in a cage" but insisted she had the right to determine what was artistic or simply exploitative."I believe a woman can present herself as a sex object if she has fun doing it," she said.

Jones attributed her own dominant image to the influence of her grandfather, who served in World War I. "He was strict, even frightening," she said. "Sometimes I think I am possessed by him." Yeah, I am sure her Dad isn't proud of the way she turned out. After all, he's a preacher.

As crazy as Grace Jones' is, I agree with her, Sarah Palin stands for a backward version of America, but not for the same reasons. Sarah Palin is not a uniter, she is a divider. Look at the comments made by many Republican heavyweights. Anyway we have five more days to go before the election and I hope Barack Obama prevails.

Here is one person Jamaica isn't too happy to claim. Grace Jones literally scared me as a kid.I remember her in that Eddie Murphy movie in which she played Strange. The woman is weird. Yoohoo, Grace, I hear Jamaica calling you again! Oops, you can't go back, can you? Remember that little incident in the Air Jamaica First Class lounge?

Jamaican-Born Disco Diva Grace Jones Says Sarah Palin Stands For Backward Vision Of America

What the hell is this? Oh, it's Grace Jones.

Here's a blast from the past coming around Halloween. Grace Jones, Jamaican-born disco diva, said she was sorry Hillary Clinton had failed to make the cut in the US election and that she "can't stand" folksy vice-presidential candidate Sarah Palin. She told the German magazine TV Spielfilm that Palin stood for the backward vision of America laden with government restrictions of sexuality and social behavior. Ouch, but does it matter, coming from Grace Jones?

"I would have loved it if Hillary Clinton had pulled it off," Jones said, in an interview published in German marking the release of her new album."I can't stand Sarah Palin. I bet a woman like that has no sense of humor."

The androgynous Jones, who conquered dancefloors and runways from New York to Paris in the 1980s, said she believed in her own form of sexual liberation. Really Grace?

According to Spielfilm, she said she had fallen afoul of feminists for stunts such as "appearing naked in a cage" but insisted she had the right to determine what was artistic or simply exploitative."I believe a woman can present herself as a sex object if she has fun doing it," she said.

Jones attributed her own dominant image to the influence of her grandfather, who served in World War I. "He was strict, even frightening," she said. "Sometimes I think I am possessed by him." Yeah, I am sure her Dad isn't proud of the way she turned out. After all, he's a preacher.

As crazy as Grace Jones' is, I agree with her, Sarah Palin stands for a backward version of America, but not for the same reasons. Sarah Palin is not a uniter, she is a divider. Look at the comments made by many Republican heavyweights. Anyway we have five more days to go before the election and I hope Barack Obama prevails.

Here is one person Jamaica isn't too happy to claim. Grace Jones literally scared me as a kid.I remember her in that Eddie Murphy movie in which she played Strange. The woman is weird. Yoohoo, Grace, I hear Jamaica calling you again! Oops, you can't go back, can you? Remember that little incident in the Air Jamaica First Class lounge?

Gun Sales Up in Florida Ahead of Presidential Election

According to Tampa Bay online, in these tight times, people may be clipping coupons and cutting back on extras, but some local gun shops are seeing an increase in weapons purchases.

The article states that there are two main reasons for the uptick, gun shop owners say: the bad economy and concerns about a Democratic sweep on Election Day."If they're going to change the rules or laws on how you can obtain a weapon, if certain people get into office, I want to protect myself and buy now," one person interviewed by the paper said.

As excerpted from the article, A-1 Pawn and Gun Shop in Tampa reports sales are up 30 percent in the past month. 49th Street Gun and Pawn in St. Petersburg reports an increase in sales of up to 25 percent. Wain Roberts gun shop in Pinellas Park has sold out of popular handguns several times this month.

Bill Jackson's Shop for Adventure store owner Doug Jackson says gun sales at the Pinellas Park shop are up at least 10 percent in the past month. Jackson says some customers perceive Democrats as being less gun ownership friendly. He says any time there's a strong Democratic candidate for president, the store sees an increase in sales.

Okay, so what are people saying? You can't trust a black man in the White House, or is this purely out of fear because of the tough economic times we are living in?

Gun Sales Up in Florida Ahead of Presidential Election

According to Tampa Bay online, in these tight times, people may be clipping coupons and cutting back on extras, but some local gun shops are seeing an increase in weapons purchases.

The article states that there are two main reasons for the uptick, gun shop owners say: the bad economy and concerns about a Democratic sweep on Election Day."If they're going to change the rules or laws on how you can obtain a weapon, if certain people get into office, I want to protect myself and buy now," one person interviewed by the paper said.

As excerpted from the article, A-1 Pawn and Gun Shop in Tampa reports sales are up 30 percent in the past month. 49th Street Gun and Pawn in St. Petersburg reports an increase in sales of up to 25 percent. Wain Roberts gun shop in Pinellas Park has sold out of popular handguns several times this month.

Bill Jackson's Shop for Adventure store owner Doug Jackson says gun sales at the Pinellas Park shop are up at least 10 percent in the past month. Jackson says some customers perceive Democrats as being less gun ownership friendly. He says any time there's a strong Democratic candidate for president, the store sees an increase in sales.

Okay, so what are people saying? You can't trust a black man in the White House, or is this purely out of fear because of the tough economic times we are living in?

Tina Fey: Sarah Palin Offers Her Pregnant Daughter Bristol Palin, to Babysit

Tina Fey, who appeared on Conan Tuesday night, said that when Sarah Palin guested on "Saturday Night Live," she asked Fey where Alice, her three-year old, had gone as the show approached. Fey told Conan:

"Gov. Palin was like, 'Oh did Alice go home? Oh, cause Bristol woulda babysat.' She offered Bristol Palin to babysit Alice... And it was Bristol's birthday, too. I was like yeah, that's exactly what 17-year-old Bristol Palin wants to do at SNL is babysit the toddler of the lady that gooks on her mom... but they're a nice family"

Okay, I am not going to criticize Palin for this. I think she meant well. How well, I don't know.

Tina Fey: Sarah Palin Offers Her Pregnant Daughter Bristol Palin, to Babysit

Tina Fey, who appeared on Conan Tuesday night, said that when Sarah Palin guested on "Saturday Night Live," she asked Fey where Alice, her three-year old, had gone as the show approached. Fey told Conan:

"Gov. Palin was like, 'Oh did Alice go home? Oh, cause Bristol woulda babysat.' She offered Bristol Palin to babysit Alice... And it was Bristol's birthday, too. I was like yeah, that's exactly what 17-year-old Bristol Palin wants to do at SNL is babysit the toddler of the lady that gooks on her mom... but they're a nice family"

Okay, I am not going to criticize Palin for this. I think she meant well. How well, I don't know.

Newt Gingrich Offers $50,000 For Video of Barack Obama with Palestinian Rashid Khalidi, McCain Campaign Accused LA Times of Withholding

These Republicans just cannot accept the fact that they may lose the next presidential election. The McCain campaign has accused the LA Times of suppressing an Obama video. The LA Times said that its promise to the source prevents it from posting the video, which shows Barack Obama praising Palestinian activist Rashid Khalidi at a 2003 banquet. Is this another Rev. Jeremiah Wright type? What is amazing is that this story has been out there since April, 2008, and McCain, Gingrich and company have now decided to press the issue six days before the election? Smells like a rat to me.

"A major news organization is intentionally suppressing information that could provide a clearer link between Barack Obama and Rashid Khalidi," said McCain campaign spokesman Michael Goldfarb. " . . . The election is one week away, and it's unfortunate that the press so obviously favors Barack Obama that this campaign must publicly request that the Los Angeles Times do its job -- make information public."

The Times on Tuesday issued a statement about its decision not to post the tape.

"The Los Angeles Times did not publish the videotape because it was provided to us by a confidential source who did so on the condition that we not release it," said the newspaper's editor, Russ Stanton. "The Times keeps its promises to sources."

The newspaper's readers' representative, Jamie Gold, said in a statement: "More than six months ago the Los Angeles Times published a detailed account of the events shown on the videotape. The Times is not suppressing anything. Just the opposite -- the L.A. Times brought the matter to light." Hello, just dirty politics from the McCain camp because the election is slipping away from them.

According to the LA Times, the original article said that Obama's friendships with Palestinian Americans in Chicago and his presence at Palestinian community events had led some to think he was sympathetic to the Palestinian viewpoint on Middle East politics. Further, the Times states that Obama publicly expresses a pro-Israel viewpoint that pleases many Jewish leaders. In reporting on Obama's presence at the dinner for Khalidi, the article noted that some speakers expressed anger at Israel and at U.S. foreign policy, but that Obama in his comments called for finding common ground. It said that Khalidi in the 1970s often spoke to reporters on behalf of the Palestine Liberation Organization. Khalidi later lived near Obama while teaching at the University of Chicago. He is now a professor of Arab studies at Columbia University in New York.

So, enter Newt Gingrich, a scumbag in his own rights, offering $50,000 for the video. Again, this is really the lowest act of dirty politics. Didn't John McCain meet with Pinochet? Gee, did they forget that he has mixed with "questionable' characters too? "Keating Five." I rest my case.In case the Republicans have forgotten, the economy is in the tank and people are losing jobs in massive numbers, the last thing they care about is a video tape the LA Times refuses to publish.

Newt Gingrich Offers $50,000 For Video of Barack Obama with Palestinian Rashid Khalidi, McCain Campaign Accused LA Times of Withholding

These Republicans just cannot accept the fact that they may lose the next presidential election. The McCain campaign has accused the LA Times of suppressing an Obama video. The LA Times said that its promise to the source prevents it from posting the video, which shows Barack Obama praising Palestinian activist Rashid Khalidi at a 2003 banquet. Is this another Rev. Jeremiah Wright type? What is amazing is that this story has been out there since April, 2008, and McCain, Gingrich and company have now decided to press the issue six days before the election? Smells like a rat to me.

"A major news organization is intentionally suppressing information that could provide a clearer link between Barack Obama and Rashid Khalidi," said McCain campaign spokesman Michael Goldfarb. " . . . The election is one week away, and it's unfortunate that the press so obviously favors Barack Obama that this campaign must publicly request that the Los Angeles Times do its job -- make information public."

The Times on Tuesday issued a statement about its decision not to post the tape.

"The Los Angeles Times did not publish the videotape because it was provided to us by a confidential source who did so on the condition that we not release it," said the newspaper's editor, Russ Stanton. "The Times keeps its promises to sources."

The newspaper's readers' representative, Jamie Gold, said in a statement: "More than six months ago the Los Angeles Times published a detailed account of the events shown on the videotape. The Times is not suppressing anything. Just the opposite -- the L.A. Times brought the matter to light." Hello, just dirty politics from the McCain camp because the election is slipping away from them.

According to the LA Times, the original article said that Obama's friendships with Palestinian Americans in Chicago and his presence at Palestinian community events had led some to think he was sympathetic to the Palestinian viewpoint on Middle East politics. Further, the Times states that Obama publicly expresses a pro-Israel viewpoint that pleases many Jewish leaders. In reporting on Obama's presence at the dinner for Khalidi, the article noted that some speakers expressed anger at Israel and at U.S. foreign policy, but that Obama in his comments called for finding common ground. It said that Khalidi in the 1970s often spoke to reporters on behalf of the Palestine Liberation Organization. Khalidi later lived near Obama while teaching at the University of Chicago. He is now a professor of Arab studies at Columbia University in New York.

So, enter Newt Gingrich, a scumbag in his own rights, offering $50,000 for the video. Again, this is really the lowest act of dirty politics. Didn't John McCain meet with Pinochet? Gee, did they forget that he has mixed with "questionable' characters too? "Keating Five." I rest my case.In case the Republicans have forgotten, the economy is in the tank and people are losing jobs in massive numbers, the last thing they care about is a video tape the LA Times refuses to publish.

Newlywed Julian Alexander Shot and Killed by Police in Case of Mistaken Identity

This news article just really ticked me off. Julian Alexander, a newlywed killed by police after he stepped outside his home to confront suspected burglars was shot in a case of mistaken identity. Alexander died after being shot twice in the chest by a police officer who was chasing four burglary suspects early Tuesday morning. Since when do all blacks look alike?

Police Chief John Welter said the officer ran into Alexander, mistook him for one of the four juvenile suspects and shot him."The last thing we ever want to do, No. 1, (is) take somebody's life," he said. "And we certainly don't want to take the life of someone who is mistakenly believed to be involved in some criminal activity." Really? Did these cops chasing the juveniles even know what color clothes they were wearing?

How do you expect the family to rationalize their son being killed by cops due to mistaken identity? You can't justify this killing by any means. Is the new slogan of the Anaheim Police Department to "kill first, worry later?" Why are they withholding the name of the police man? Seems like a cover-up is underway.

According to media reports, Alexander got married last weekend and his 19-year-old wife is expecting a baby in December. Alexander's wife said she heard the gunshots and tried to go into the yard, but the officer told her to stay inside. From the window they saw Alexander handcuffed and bleeding in the front yard. It is reprehensible that the cops handcuffed a critically wounded man. This is an outrage! What is equally unsettling is that this could have happened to any law-abiding, hardworking, decent black man. My thoughts and prayers go out to this family.

Newlywed Julian Alexander Shot and Killed by Police in Case of Mistaken Identity

This news article just really ticked me off. Julian Alexander, a newlywed killed by police after he stepped outside his home to confront suspected burglars was shot in a case of mistaken identity. Alexander died after being shot twice in the chest by a police officer who was chasing four burglary suspects early Tuesday morning. Since when do all blacks look alike?

Police Chief John Welter said the officer ran into Alexander, mistook him for one of the four juvenile suspects and shot him."The last thing we ever want to do, No. 1, (is) take somebody's life," he said. "And we certainly don't want to take the life of someone who is mistakenly believed to be involved in some criminal activity." Really? Did these cops chasing the juveniles even know what color clothes they were wearing?

How do you expect the family to rationalize their son being killed by cops due to mistaken identity? You can't justify this killing by any means. Is the new slogan of the Anaheim Police Department to "kill first, worry later?" Why are they withholding the name of the police man? Seems like a cover-up is underway.

According to media reports, Alexander got married last weekend and his 19-year-old wife is expecting a baby in December. Alexander's wife said she heard the gunshots and tried to go into the yard, but the officer told her to stay inside. From the window they saw Alexander handcuffed and bleeding in the front yard. It is reprehensible that the cops handcuffed a critically wounded man. This is an outrage! What is equally unsettling is that this could have happened to any law-abiding, hardworking, decent black man. My thoughts and prayers go out to this family.

Sarah Palin Says Nothing as Woman Yells Ni***r When She Mentions Barack Obama's Name

Sarah Palin continues to prove that she will tolerate racist behavior. According to Daily Kos, while she was talking to an Iowa crowd about Barack Obama and taxes,a woman yelled nigger when she paused during her speech. Afterwards Palin stutters, seemingly caught off guard and begins to continue her speech. Never once decrying the comments made by that woman. Here's an excerpt, from Boing Boing, of her comments.....

Palin: Obama...Barack Obama has an ideological commitment to higher taxes. The lessons I believe we have taught our kids would start to erode. Those lessons about work ethic, hard work being rewarded and productivity being rewarded...

Female yelling off-camera, in audience:

And he's a nigger!

Palin: And...and......lessons about, um, the virtues of freedom and independence while being generous and compassionate with others.

So, it is quite obvious that Sarah Palin heard those words and chose not to say anything. Her silence can be taken to mean that she condones of this behavior and it is okay to be associated with racists. To use Sarah Palin's phrase, I am calling her on her comments and her inaction when this woman calls Barack Obama a nigger.

Hat tip to Roschelle Nelson at Sagacious Rambling....

Sarah Palin Says Nothing as Woman Yells Ni***r When She Mentions Barack Obama's Name

Sarah Palin continues to prove that she will tolerate racist behavior. According to Daily Kos, while she was talking to an Iowa crowd about Barack Obama and taxes,a woman yelled nigger when she paused during her speech. Afterwards Palin stutters, seemingly caught off guard and begins to continue her speech. Never once decrying the comments made by that woman. Here's an excerpt, from Boing Boing, of her comments.....

Palin: Obama...Barack Obama has an ideological commitment to higher taxes. The lessons I believe we have taught our kids would start to erode. Those lessons about work ethic, hard work being rewarded and productivity being rewarded...

Female yelling off-camera, in audience:

And he's a nigger!

Palin: And...and......lessons about, um, the virtues of freedom and independence while being generous and compassionate with others.

So, it is quite obvious that Sarah Palin heard those words and chose not to say anything. Her silence can be taken to mean that she condones of this behavior and it is okay to be associated with racists. To use Sarah Palin's phrase, I am calling her on her comments and her inaction when this woman calls Barack Obama a nigger.

Hat tip to Roschelle Nelson at Sagacious Rambling....

D.L. Hughley's "Break the News" Show on CNN Is A Disgrace

I found D.L. Hughley's "Break the News" an offensive show that perpetuates the negative stereotypes that have dogged blacks in this country for too long. We are on the verge of making history with the first African American, Barack Obama, becoming the President of the United States and all Hughley could do is to insult blacks. The show needs to be on Comedy Central, BET or HBO. It has no place on CNN. What upsets me is that throughout the presidential campaign race has been an omnipresent issue with many people asking whether whites would reject Obama on the basis of his race. The last thing we need is someone like D.L. Hughley being the moral authority for blacks. I am appalled that a major cable news network such as CNN decided to discuss race in such an offensive way, reminiscent of Amos and Andy, a situation comedy based on reinforcing stereotypes about blacks and widely popular in the United States from the 1920s through the 1950s.

Hughley warned that the election of a President Obama would lead to a health plan with grills for all. Grills are shining metal caps worn on the teeth of blacks while they drink malt liquor from a paper bag. Is that mindset representative of all blacks in this country? Certainly not. His guest, "Freddie Mack," attired in the traditional pimp attire complete with hat and bling, described Obama's fund raising prowess as "Big pimping." In fact, Freddie Mack went on to say, "Politicians are pimps and the electorate are their hoes." Thus, he reasoned, "bitch better have my money." In a response dripping with racism and misogyny, he reminded Americans that the financial crisis was about his sister Fannie May or Fannie may not again, utilizing the hoe moniker for black women. Does that belong on CNN, Fox News or MSNBC? That was simply degrading on so many levels.

Hughley also predicted that the election of a President Obama would result in a meteor striking America. His expert guest assured him of two things. The first is that such would not happen during an Obama administration and that if it did, blacks would be protected because of the complexion of our skin while whites would not. As if this was not enough, the anchor conducted an interview in which a black maid of a Jewish woman decried her years as a maid for that Jewish woman and warned that she would "clean her clock" if the old Jewish woman did not vote for Obama. Of course, besides portraying black women as violent, it also escalated the issue of Jews voting for Obama during this election. The message, it seems, is that blacks cannot convince with the facts but with fists.

The show was without substance and I am disappointed that CNN chose to cater to such low levels of humor. There are so many other prominent black radio and television personalities that would have served the company better. This is not a time for us to perpetuate the stereotypes. What he has managed to do is to remind us of a place where we should not revisit. CNN has vociferously condemned the racism displayed throughout this campaign, a throwback to the Jim Crow era. It is, indeed, shameful that CNN has displayed such hypocrisy. CNN, like the slave masters who profited from slavery and racism, has decided that there is still "gold in those hills," rather than stand on the side of reason. What they have done, is pick up where Sarah Palin has left off. To sum this up, CNN is your source for the "best dose of racism" on television. They are giving legitimacy to the vilest stereotypes against blacks in this country, specifically the notion that black men are pimps and black women "hos." Thanks D.L. Hughley for making a mockery out of yourself and other blacks in the process. Shame on you CNN!

D.L. Hughley's "Break the News" Show on CNN Is A Disgrace

I found D.L. Hughley's "Break the News" an offensive show that perpetuates the negative stereotypes that have dogged blacks in this country for too long. We are on the verge of making history with the first African American, Barack Obama, becoming the President of the United States and all Hughley could do is to insult blacks. The show needs to be on Comedy Central, BET or HBO. It has no place on CNN. What upsets me is that throughout the presidential campaign race has been an omnipresent issue with many people asking whether whites would reject Obama on the basis of his race. The last thing we need is someone like D.L. Hughley being the moral authority for blacks. I am appalled that a major cable news network such as CNN decided to discuss race in such an offensive way, reminiscent of Amos and Andy, a situation comedy based on reinforcing stereotypes about blacks and widely popular in the United States from the 1920s through the 1950s.

Hughley warned that the election of a President Obama would lead to a health plan with grills for all. Grills are shining metal caps worn on the teeth of blacks while they drink malt liquor from a paper bag. Is that mindset representative of all blacks in this country? Certainly not. His guest, "Freddie Mack," attired in the traditional pimp attire complete with hat and bling, described Obama's fund raising prowess as "Big pimping." In fact, Freddie Mack went on to say, "Politicians are pimps and the electorate are their hoes." Thus, he reasoned, "bitch better have my money." In a response dripping with racism and misogyny, he reminded Americans that the financial crisis was about his sister Fannie May or Fannie may not again, utilizing the hoe moniker for black women. Does that belong on CNN, Fox News or MSNBC? That was simply degrading on so many levels.

Hughley also predicted that the election of a President Obama would result in a meteor striking America. His expert guest assured him of two things. The first is that such would not happen during an Obama administration and that if it did, blacks would be protected because of the complexion of our skin while whites would not. As if this was not enough, the anchor conducted an interview in which a black maid of a Jewish woman decried her years as a maid for that Jewish woman and warned that she would "clean her clock" if the old Jewish woman did not vote for Obama. Of course, besides portraying black women as violent, it also escalated the issue of Jews voting for Obama during this election. The message, it seems, is that blacks cannot convince with the facts but with fists.

The show was without substance and I am disappointed that CNN chose to cater to such low levels of humor. There are so many other prominent black radio and television personalities that would have served the company better. This is not a time for us to perpetuate the stereotypes. What he has managed to do is to remind us of a place where we should not revisit. CNN has vociferously condemned the racism displayed throughout this campaign, a throwback to the Jim Crow era. It is, indeed, shameful that CNN has displayed such hypocrisy. CNN, like the slave masters who profited from slavery and racism, has decided that there is still "gold in those hills," rather than stand on the side of reason. What they have done, is pick up where Sarah Palin has left off. To sum this up, CNN is your source for the "best dose of racism" on television. They are giving legitimacy to the vilest stereotypes against blacks in this country, specifically the notion that black men are pimps and black women "hos." Thanks D.L. Hughley for making a mockery out of yourself and other blacks in the process. Shame on you CNN!

Black Political Political Thought Presents Novelist Jeff Rivera

I had the privilege of reading Jeff Rivera's latest novel "Forever My Lady," and I came away with a deep understanding of his perspective and his versatility. Jeff's book is being released today. Black Political Thought interviewed Jeff on the eve of his book release and I came away with a deep appreciation for an African American who has beaten the odds.

QUESTIONS:

1.) Your novel is so much more than you would imagine on the surface. It deals with serious issues but at the same time has a way of capturing your heart. For those who have not read Forever My Lady what is it about and why has it struck a chord with so many?

Forever My Lady for me is almost a letter to the reader in many ways. It's like a message to everyone letting them know that we're all alike no matter what our economical, racial, social class backgrounds. We all have common ground, common issues, common feelings. In it my main character, Dio grows up thinking no one loves him. He turns to a life of a juvenile delinquent when his own mother kicks him out of the house at 13 but there is one girl in particular that never judges him and loves him unconditionally and that is, Jennifer. He ends up making some wrong decisions and lands in prison boot camp and they promise each other they'll never leave each other. However, when Dio finally gets released after turning his life around for Jennifer,he finds out from a mutual friend that Jennifer is about to marry another man. In it though, Dio experiences and is forced to face so many issues that we all deal with in terms of racism, in terms of insecurities and in terms of finding who he really is and what makes him tick.

2.) You have an interesting mix of diverse characters a Black American drill instructor, a Latino gang member, a biracial boot camp trainee. Was that a conscious choice to have so many races represented in your novel?

Very much so. I mean, creatively speaking I wanted to make sure that first and foremost the characters had universal stories to tell; that no matter what they looked like on the surface it was something that all people could relate to. But then, yes. It was a conscious decision to make sure that as many races were represented because you don't see enough of it in the world of art. I didn't want this book to only be a love story, or a drama, or an urban story or a this or a that. I wanted it to be a powerful story that people could relate to.

3.) Did you face any challenges of acceptance being a Black American writing with two lead Latino characters?

I was so frightened when I was writing this story that I would not be accepted by the Hispanic community. That really was something that I fought over internally. So, I enlisted the help of the online community for feedback and dear Hispanic friends to give me their honest opinion and help me authenticate the characters through believable Chicano slang and whatnot. I was shocked, and incredibly touched by the amazing support that rallied behind Forever My Lady by not only the Hispanic community but the Black American and general mainstream communities as well.

4.) What challenges did you find as a writer, who happens to be someone of color in migrating through the book publishing process? What challenges do you still face?

You know the whole process of getting published can be challenging as it is. And, I think people, especially people of color will sometimes use their color as an excuse not to succeed in the medium. They'll blame their supposed lack of success on racism or "the man" when in reality perhaps their story is not ready or they have not chosen a genre that is particularly marketable. I think it worked for me because I saw a tremendous opportunity for this story I was so passionate to tell to break some ground. And also, very much because my mother always taught us to be a great human being first who happened to be someone of color. To embrace our culture and our ancestry but all of it, the Black American, the Native American, the European ancestry, all of it and to be proud of it but to not use that as a crutch not to succeed. So, instead of thinking of it as a challenge, I thought of it as an opportunity. My Anglo writer friends have the same challenges getting published as the my writer friends of color.

5.) Your novel deals with serious racism issues with a character who is almost a white supremacist and a Latino gang member. Why did you think it was important to address these types of issues in your book?

It is such an important issue to deal with because it's reality but even with the incredibly racist characters I made sure that you saw a real human being not a cartoon cut out. I also like to show the sometimes subtle racism (sometimes not so subtle) that people of color give to Anglos and more importantly to ourselves in our own community. It was interesting for me as a writer to step into the shoes of all these characters to see their mentality and to almost become a racist in my own mind in order to think, act and speak as that character in the novel. It forced me to face my own issues of prejudice (and we all have them).

6.) What is your message to any young person who wants to become a writer or a novelist?

It's funny you would ask me this because I'm getting ready to do some extensive volunteer work helping young novelists here in New York City. I think I would tell them what my father told me a long time ago, which was so simple yet profound. "Be the best." You have to be better than anyone out there because you're competing not only with unknowns but also the the big boys, the Michael Crichton's, the Danielle Steele's, the Toni Morrison's, the John Grisham's. I would also tell them to find a mentor. I didn't have any formal training but I surrounded myself with older mentors who did have that training and took me under their wing. And last but not least, write, crank out those pages.

7.) Who had the most impact on your life and your choice to become a novelist?

When I think back I think that one of the very biggest impacts I had to become a novelist was my third grade teacher at David Hill Elementary in Hillsboro, Oregon, Mrs. Gardner and also my fourth grade teacher, Mrs. Wetzler. Mrs. Gardner recognize I would say my interest more than my talent at that age and put me in a gifted class for writers and my fourth grade teacher used to read books to us aloud such as Where the Red Fern Grows. Those two people helped me make me the novelist I am today.

8.) To end, what's next for Jeff Rivera in this journey?

My next stop, as my friend and author Ivan Sanchez says would be to continue to write for Young Adults. I want a legacy of writing a body of work people can look back on and appreciate.

9.) Where can my readers pick up a copy of Forever My Lady?
In addition to http://www.jeffrivera.com/ you can pick up a copy of Forever My Lady at bookstores everywhere and of course, Amazon.com.

I encourage all my readers to support Jeff and pick up a copy of "Forever My Lady," today. It is a riveting novel. As an added bonus, for the first five readers who post a comment, you can win a copy of "Forever My Lady." Send an e-mail with your name and address to: blackpoliticalthought@gmail.com.

Black Political Political Thought Presents Novelist Jeff Rivera

I had the privilege of reading Jeff Rivera's latest novel "Forever My Lady," and I came away with a deep understanding of his perspective and his versatility. Jeff's book is being released today. Black Political Thought interviewed Jeff on the eve of his book release and I came away with a deep appreciation for an African American who has beaten the odds.

QUESTIONS:

1.) Your novel is so much more than you would imagine on the surface. It deals with serious issues but at the same time has a way of capturing your heart. For those who have not read Forever My Lady what is it about and why has it struck a chord with so many?

Forever My Lady for me is almost a letter to the reader in many ways. It's like a message to everyone letting them know that we're all alike no matter what our economical, racial, social class backgrounds. We all have common ground, common issues, common feelings. In it my main character, Dio grows up thinking no one loves him. He turns to a life of a juvenile delinquent when his own mother kicks him out of the house at 13 but there is one girl in particular that never judges him and loves him unconditionally and that is, Jennifer. He ends up making some wrong decisions and lands in prison boot camp and they promise each other they'll never leave each other. However, when Dio finally gets released after turning his life around for Jennifer,he finds out from a mutual friend that Jennifer is about to marry another man. In it though, Dio experiences and is forced to face so many issues that we all deal with in terms of racism, in terms of insecurities and in terms of finding who he really is and what makes him tick.

2.) You have an interesting mix of diverse characters a Black American drill instructor, a Latino gang member, a biracial boot camp trainee. Was that a conscious choice to have so many races represented in your novel?

Very much so. I mean, creatively speaking I wanted to make sure that first and foremost the characters had universal stories to tell; that no matter what they looked like on the surface it was something that all people could relate to. But then, yes. It was a conscious decision to make sure that as many races were represented because you don't see enough of it in the world of art. I didn't want this book to only be a love story, or a drama, or an urban story or a this or a that. I wanted it to be a powerful story that people could relate to.

3.) Did you face any challenges of acceptance being a Black American writing with two lead Latino characters?

I was so frightened when I was writing this story that I would not be accepted by the Hispanic community. That really was something that I fought over internally. So, I enlisted the help of the online community for feedback and dear Hispanic friends to give me their honest opinion and help me authenticate the characters through believable Chicano slang and whatnot. I was shocked, and incredibly touched by the amazing support that rallied behind Forever My Lady by not only the Hispanic community but the Black American and general mainstream communities as well.

4.) What challenges did you find as a writer, who happens to be someone of color in migrating through the book publishing process? What challenges do you still face?

You know the whole process of getting published can be challenging as it is. And, I think people, especially people of color will sometimes use their color as an excuse not to succeed in the medium. They'll blame their supposed lack of success on racism or "the man" when in reality perhaps their story is not ready or they have not chosen a genre that is particularly marketable. I think it worked for me because I saw a tremendous opportunity for this story I was so passionate to tell to break some ground. And also, very much because my mother always taught us to be a great human being first who happened to be someone of color. To embrace our culture and our ancestry but all of it, the Black American, the Native American, the European ancestry, all of it and to be proud of it but to not use that as a crutch not to succeed. So, instead of thinking of it as a challenge, I thought of it as an opportunity. My Anglo writer friends have the same challenges getting published as the my writer friends of color.

5.) Your novel deals with serious racism issues with a character who is almost a white supremacist and a Latino gang member. Why did you think it was important to address these types of issues in your book?

It is such an important issue to deal with because it's reality but even with the incredibly racist characters I made sure that you saw a real human being not a cartoon cut out. I also like to show the sometimes subtle racism (sometimes not so subtle) that people of color give to Anglos and more importantly to ourselves in our own community. It was interesting for me as a writer to step into the shoes of all these characters to see their mentality and to almost become a racist in my own mind in order to think, act and speak as that character in the novel. It forced me to face my own issues of prejudice (and we all have them).

6.) What is your message to any young person who wants to become a writer or a novelist?

It's funny you would ask me this because I'm getting ready to do some extensive volunteer work helping young novelists here in New York City. I think I would tell them what my father told me a long time ago, which was so simple yet profound. "Be the best." You have to be better than anyone out there because you're competing not only with unknowns but also the the big boys, the Michael Crichton's, the Danielle Steele's, the Toni Morrison's, the John Grisham's. I would also tell them to find a mentor. I didn't have any formal training but I surrounded myself with older mentors who did have that training and took me under their wing. And last but not least, write, crank out those pages.

7.) Who had the most impact on your life and your choice to become a novelist?

When I think back I think that one of the very biggest impacts I had to become a novelist was my third grade teacher at David Hill Elementary in Hillsboro, Oregon, Mrs. Gardner and also my fourth grade teacher, Mrs. Wetzler. Mrs. Gardner recognize I would say my interest more than my talent at that age and put me in a gifted class for writers and my fourth grade teacher used to read books to us aloud such as Where the Red Fern Grows. Those two people helped me make me the novelist I am today.

8.) To end, what's next for Jeff Rivera in this journey?

My next stop, as my friend and author Ivan Sanchez says would be to continue to write for Young Adults. I want a legacy of writing a body of work people can look back on and appreciate.

9.) Where can my readers pick up a copy of Forever My Lady?
In addition to http://www.jeffrivera.com/ you can pick up a copy of Forever My Lady at bookstores everywhere and of course, Amazon.com.

I encourage all my readers to support Jeff and pick up a copy of "Forever My Lady," today. It is a riveting novel. As an added bonus, for the first five readers who post a comment, you can win a copy of "Forever My Lady." Send an e-mail with your name and address to: blackpoliticalthought@gmail.com.

ATF Breaks Up Skinheads Daniel Cowart, Paul Schlesselman Assassination Plot Targeting Barack Obama, Shoot or Decapitate 102 Blacks

These skinheads have lost their minds. Apparently the ATF has broken up a plot to assassinate Barack Obama and shoot or decapitate 102 black people in a Tennessee murder spree. Federal agents said they disrupted plans to rob a gun store and target a predominantly African-American high school by two neo-Nazi skinheads, Daniel Cowart and Paul Schlesselman. Agents said the skinheads did not identify the school by name. This really ticks me off. So, only white men are allowed to run for the presidency? I hope Barack Obama wins and let's see if these racists will leave the United States. The last time I checked, the American Indians are the only ones who are indigenous.

According to the NY Daily News, Jim Cavanaugh, special agent in charge of the Nashville field office for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, said the two men planned to shoot 88 black people and decapitate another 14. The numbers 88 and 14 are symbolic in the white supremacist community. The men are being held without bond. Agents seized a rifle, a sawed-off shotgun and three pistols from the men when they were arrested. Authorities alleged the two men were preparing to break into a gun shop to steal more.

I thought America has started to move past its racist past, but this election has brought out the very worst in so many people and on so many levels. So what if Barack Obama becomes the president of the United States? All I have to say to these skinheads better realize that we aren't back in the early 1900s.

ATF Breaks Up Skinheads Daniel Cowart, Paul Schlesselman Assassination Plot Targeting Barack Obama, Shoot or Decapitate 102 Blacks

These skinheads have lost their minds. Apparently the ATF has broken up a plot to assassinate Barack Obama and shoot or decapitate 102 black people in a Tennessee murder spree. Federal agents said they disrupted plans to rob a gun store and target a predominantly African-American high school by two neo-Nazi skinheads, Daniel Cowart and Paul Schlesselman. Agents said the skinheads did not identify the school by name. This really ticks me off. So, only white men are allowed to run for the presidency? I hope Barack Obama wins and let's see if these racists will leave the United States. The last time I checked, the American Indians are the only ones who are indigenous.

According to the NY Daily News, Jim Cavanaugh, special agent in charge of the Nashville field office for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, said the two men planned to shoot 88 black people and decapitate another 14. The numbers 88 and 14 are symbolic in the white supremacist community. The men are being held without bond. Agents seized a rifle, a sawed-off shotgun and three pistols from the men when they were arrested. Authorities alleged the two men were preparing to break into a gun shop to steal more.

I thought America has started to move past its racist past, but this election has brought out the very worst in so many people and on so many levels. So what if Barack Obama becomes the president of the United States? All I have to say to these skinheads better realize that we aren't back in the early 1900s.

Kenyan Reggae Singer Sends Musical Message to America: 'Obama be Thy Name'...

I am sure that the Republicans will take offense to this song, but that's okay. Barack Obama has captured the attention of so many people, both in the United States and worldwide. Whether he wins the election or not, he has done something very few presidents in American history has done.

Kenyan Reggae Singer Sends Musical Message to America: 'Obama be Thy Name'...

I am sure that the Republicans will take offense to this song, but that's okay. Barack Obama has captured the attention of so many people, both in the United States and worldwide. Whether he wins the election or not, he has done something very few presidents in American history has done.

Amazon.com Listed Barack Obama Halloween Mask Under "Terrorist," Has Since Corrected Itself

Well, I guess Amazon.com drank the McCain-Palin Kool-Aid smearing Obama with "palling around with terrorists." According to the LA Times Top of the Ticket blog, they listed a Barack Obama Halloween mask under terrorist, but has since removed it. Needless to say, they are making a huge profit off a $49.95 Obama mask. So the least they could have done, was to get it right.

There's the Democrats' presidential candidate smiling right under the headline "Terrorist Costume."