Chas Rants

The Fabric of Deception

2017-10-24T21:53:00.000-05:00

P.T. Barnum reminded us that, “There's a sucker born every minute.” Frankly, today's charismatic political leaders make Mr. Barnum seem like an amateur. There is no shortage of the power hungry bent on selling us their bill of goods designed to keep them, not us, in control.

In his autobiography, Mark Twain said, "How easy it is to make people believe a lie, and how hard it is to undo that work again!" The political theater of today proves that to us on a daily basis. The lies get bigger and bolder every day. When reality is blurred this bad, where does the fact end and fiction begin?

We can't count on those invested in maintaining the integrity of their lies to reveal the truth. They may not even recognize the foundational fallacy upon which they've built their house of cards.

It's time to bump the table and knock it down. It’s time to pull back the curtain and expose the wizard for the fraud he truly is.

Finally we have an administration beholden to no one but the electorate. Finally we have someone trying to untangle the lies woven into the fabric of so-called "conventional wisdom". We must acknowledge that we have a President trying to heal the fiscal and social wounds of this nation. We must work to “repeal and replace” the established politicians that continue to contribute to this mess, while we bolster and aid those who seek to join in the repairs, struggling to untangle the extra Constitutional knots strangling our nation's lifeblood.

Look past the disinformation and deception of the past. Let’s restore responsibility in the present. Now is the time to build an honorable legacy for our future, the children of today who will have to live with and answer for our decisions today.

The Fallacy of Economic Imbalance

2017-09-28T07:16:00.002-05:00

In a recent discussion online, I had a friend invoke so-called "Economic Imbalance", citing this article, These 8 Men Have As Much Money As Half The World

What the perpetually offended refer to as economic imbalance, is society actually reaching equilibrium. In any given group, when everyone starts out with equal resources, given enough time, you will find that ultimately some will end up with most, and the rest will have the least. There will always be someone willing to pay another to do what they could do themselves, and always someone willing to do that work. That is the true balance, and that is the free market at work, real economic freedom. Agreements between individuals will always restore the real balance that some mistakenly perceive as "inequality".

In a truly free market, a collective desire for a good or service will ultimately be provided by someone with the creativity to make the good or service available. As well, inventive people will identify the need, and find a way to fulfill it.

Real inequality comes from governmental regulations that favor one group or class over another. And kind of "affirmative action" or subsidy to influence behavior induces an imbalance that tends to favor those already with a perceived advantage, effectively harming those it claims to help. Removing these regulations would actually allow free market forces to favor the abilities or behaviors desired by those in the marketplace, instead of compelling them to toe some politically (in)correct party line. This is just one example of a myriad of reasons that constrain the full potential of the free market and inhibit true economic freedom. An expansion of the introduction to this concept is found here, 10 Essential Economic Truths Liberals Need to Learn.

Some suggest that resources should be taken from those that "have" and given to those that "have not". However one tries to skew it under the guise of "fairness" and equality, redistribution will never work.

Why?

Because we really aren't equal. There will always be those willing to exchange their available resources for the time of another, as there will always be someone willing to accept those resources in exchange for their time. Such is the basis of employment agreements, which are basically limited indentured servitude.

None of us will every truly get something for nothing. There will always be a cost. Initially the cost will be to those from whom the something is taken. Next they will recoup their loss in other ways, ultimately being paid by those who received that something, for what at the time they thought was nothing.

Everything is connected. We all willingly chose what we do with the resources we have. How we "spend" our time leads to how we "buy" our future. Whether we work in exchange for cash, or advocate in exchange for an outcome, we are creating the true economic balance that transcends any false perception of inequality.

Who Determines Your Right to Exist?

2017-07-05T06:51:00.000-05:00

Whomever pays the piper, gets to call the dance.
What happens when the piper pays himself with the money he's stolen from you?
He starts playing to his own tune, forcing you dance as his puppet.

This is what's happens under any government controlled health care; single-payer, Obamacare, or the United Kingdom's National Health Service (NHS). Here in the US the opposition to Obamacare was ridiculed for talking about "Death Panels" that would decide who is allowed to receive health care and who isn't; who lives and who dies.

Today a very real scenario is playing out in the UK. The British Courts upheld the decision of one such NHS "Death Panel", and have determined, contrary to his parents pleas, that Charlie Gard must die.

The very fact that we are conceived in the womb is proof that God grants us the most basic of human rights, the right to life, to exist. This very right is being stripped away in the name of dignity. How dignified is life when is can be legislated away in the name of "healthcare", or arbitrarily decided by bureaucratic fiat?

It's time to take back our lives, take back our healthcare, and make the piper dance to our tune.

Choose Life. God did, and so should we all.

Sharing the Dream

2017-01-16T17:28:00.000-06:00

It’s a start. Starting from zero, to 3/5th, to the 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments, to the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the United States of America has come a long way toward acknowledging the rights of all citizens as being equal under the law. Socially, it's been a longer road, but still this nation has come farther than most on the planet.

Who could have imagined the child of an African father and a poor white mother holding the title of 44th President of our nation?

It's not hard, unless we choose to make it hard. There are those who chase demons, hunting them down, some real and some imagined, and give them far more power than they deserve. Instead of slaying them, they end up feeding the hate.

Just, STOP! Regroup… Reflect… Refocus… Realign… Relax

What is the quickest way to overcome the chasms that separate us? Build bridges. Instead of facing in opposition, we must choose to face together, side by side, and overcome the challenges, together.

Today, on Martin Luther King, Jr Day, we must think about who and what we are a created to be. Regardless of the wrapper, we are all children of God. It's long past time to transcend external affectations and embrace what lies within.

When MLK,jr shared his dream, it wasn't his alone. That dream was a gift, a vision from God, and how He wants us to respect each other. When we respect others, we not only respect ourselves, but honor God.

"9 Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. 10 Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves." Romans 12:9-10

The dream will never be realized by hiding the truth, but by engaging in frank dialog and challenging the so-called "societal norms" which must be rendered obsolete. Only by speaking out against the hate and hypocrisy can it be neutered.

Laws will only take us so far. Love cannot be legislated. It takes people making choices, choosing love and respect, over vitriol and hatred.

It's time to stop chasing the dream and start living it. Together.

Sanctuary Cities, Flag Burning, and Federal Money

2016-12-06T15:04:00.001-06:00

I support withholding Federal money from those who harbor criminal border violators, desecrate the flag or otherwise operate outside the bounds of US law.

Now for the greater issue; I have a problem with the concept of this being "Federal money", and the Extra-Constitutional uses being funded. Any money the federal government has comes from We the Taxpayers. If the federal govt has money to spend on education, or social initiatives, or subsidizing anything, or any other activities not authorized under the Constitution, then it means we are being overtaxed.

Government is intended to be our agent in dealing with entities OUTSIDE its jurisdiction, not to bribe us with monies from the treasury to influence our life choices and personal decisions.

National defense is legit...Study grants are not.

Border security is legit...Federal school funding is not.

Enforcing Customs law is legit...Bribing states to comply with federal mandates is not.

Government is to be our servant, not our master.

Untie the Red Tape and Release Liberty

2016-11-12T17:29:00.000-06:00

It's no secret that Federal regulatory overreach is strangling the United States economic potential. From environmental, to social, to economic rules, there are too many examples to name them all. One friend of mine sent me a message highlighting one such rule that will effectively steal our future by mining our fortunes, the very investments we're counting on to retire on and pass to our children.

"Remember when Nancy Pelosi said she was coming for everyone’s 401K, and everyone said “no, no…that’s crazy”. Did you really expect them to walk in the front door and steal your retirement money, hence throwing the nation into all out revolt? No, these evil bastards are much more insidious than that. They need a way that is inconspicuous. IT IS HERE AND IT IS CALLED THE DEPT OF LABOR “FIDUCIARY RULE”.

Here is how it works. Using the back door of the Dept. of Labor (DOL), they have decided through regulatory means to steal your money. The connection between DOL and the financial industry is that they claim “retirement accounts” are products of employers and have been created through your “labor”. Hence the DOL has a right to determine how you invest your retirement account and make rules regarding those accounts.

Next, the DOL rule is created under the rather benign sounding concept that “we must make sure that Financial Advisers are always working with the best “fiduciary” obligations to the client. Sounds great, right?? After all we wouldn’t want Advisors actually making a living helping people invest their retirement money (sarc). And of course the DOL knows soooo much better than qualified investment professional on how to grow your money. (Also sarc)

What they are doing is souring the relationship and the incentive for the investment brokerages and advisors to even take on these accounts at all. This will force them into very highly regulated types of accounts, or even for retired employees to just leave them with the former employer, staying in a “group” plan.

Once that is done, the rule makers can then force those “plans” and accounts to buy/hold whatever percentage of the accounts in government bonds. THAT IS THE WAY THEY PLAN ON GETTING YOUR MONEY. You will be REQUIRED to buy up the government debt by regulation. NOT by LAW!!

None of this done with Congress, none subject to public review!

WE MUST ACT NOW AND TELL THE INCOMING ADMINISTRATION TO PUBLIC STOP THIS NOW AND EXPOSE WHAT THE GOVERNMENT HAS BEEN DOING!!"

Keep in mind, this is but one of thousands of regulations hidden in many more pages of Federal rules, all created with little or no oversight. Because it doesn't become active until sometime in 2017, this particular rule can be turned back before it does any damage. Imagine all the others already in place that have been bleeding off our economy for decades...Chilling

This is the time for us to contact our representatives in DC as they form their agenda for the upcoming legislative session. Give them a focus, tell them how Washington regulations harm for family, and tell them what you need to fix it.

Be the solution and tell them how to untie the red tape strangling your family.

First Debate Result: Underwhelming

2016-09-27T06:57:00.002-05:00

I wanted to see something worth voting for, but I left disappointed.

The primary elections yielded the worst candidates each side had to offer. It left me with a dilemma, how shall I cast my vote, if at all?

Each candidate got off some zingers. Each managed to catch the other off guard at some point. Each managed to highlight a weakness in the other. Neither earned a clear or decisive victory.

There is one candidate that will never earn my trust, since there is a long history of corruption and ethical lapses going back over 40 years. The other candidate, though inspiring to some with such self aggrandizing hyperbole, comes off to me as juvenile, petulant, and small.

I have excellent options in the down-ticket races, but not in the big one. For now I'm only left with something to vote against, but I hope at some point I get a reason to vote FOR something. Time is running out, with November closing fast.

What is the Price of Integrity?

2016-04-25T11:25:00.000-05:00

When I'm not working, I like to drive for Uber. I like driving, and I like people, so it’s a great part time gig. After my regular full-time job, I will light up the app and "work" my way home, helping others get to where they need to be.

This past weekend there were two separate rides with which I was less than thrilled, and both for the same reason… Integrity.

First, some background. As an Uber driver, we are regular people driving our own personal vehicles. Though we all pass a thorough background check, there is no taxi or livery license is involved. This means we cannot accept any hails or requests outside of the introduction and calls received through the app. Essentially, it’s a dating service that introduces folks who need with those willing to provide that assistance, and collects the compensation.

One young man climbed into my truck, said he only had cash, and asked if I could just turn off the app and he would pay me the estimate. RED FLAG! I told him no, and we continued on the trip as usual.

Later, I gave a ride to two ladies, who asked if I was willing to make multiple stops. As long as I don't have to wait too long, I usually accommodate, because I understand how challenging it can be when one is away from home without access to personal transportation. However, the companion of the lady who called me wanted to "work a deal". She kept trying to pitch different ways to game the system, and pay me independently, outside the app. Ultimately, they screwed themselves out of a ride to their last stop. They asked me to end the ride, hoping to start a new ride to reach their final destination. Unfortunately for them, someone else pinged in a few minutes later. One lady was waiting for her friend in my vehicle, and I had to ask her to leave so I could assist my next rider.

Why do I have a problem with what they were asking? It's wrong. They were asking me to violate the law, by acting as a gypsy cab. They were asking me to operate outside the bounds of the very service they used to request me, which is a violation of the terms of service, and unethical. As well, its stealing from my partner, who brought us together for the transaction.

Has our society gone so far askew that its acceptable to ask others to lie, cheat, and steal?
When I pick up someone for a ride, we are establishing a contract that I will get them to their destination safely and efficiently, within certain ethical boundaries, after which Uber and I will in turn receive just compensation. Their attempts to game the system was asking me to compromise my integrity. How can someone trust their life and safety to a person so easily swayed?

Who are we without a basic level of trust? That is the basis of any relationship; contractual, written or verbal, explicit or implied. There is an understanding we will complete what we have promised we would do. Once one engages in shady transactions, when does the line stop shifting? Even if no one else found out, I would always know that I could not be trusted.

Are a few extra dollars worth losing my integrity, and maybe, my soul?

I think you know my answer.

Speak freely, at your own risk

2016-04-19T09:36:00.000-05:00

What is happening to my America?

We grow up with the thought and promise of free expression and political affiliation, protected by the 1st Amendment.

The Reality is much different.

When the People speak contrary to the regime, they face censure and legal actions. People say uncomfortable things using "banned" language, then get removed from their post or ejected from school. Who exactly is the beneficiary of "Safe Spaces"? Can one really wall off "Free Speech", and still call it free?

Free thought? Free expression?

The actions of the government, as well as at so-called "learning institutions", is quelling independent thought and open expression. They are effectively institutionalizing censorship, but to what end?

Beware the ban hammer of the enlightened masses. It seeks to crush all that challenges the party line, with their polished, filtered, and pre-approved "truth".

For examples of institutional oppression, please review below.
*TRIGGER WARNING: Some items may be uncomfortable for the criminally sensitive.

http://townhall.com/tipsheet/katiepavlich/2015/07/24/issa-the-irs-is-still-targeting-conservatives-n2029980

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3485864/Attorney-General-Loretta-Lynch-considered-taking-legal-action-against-climate-change-deniers.html

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M7XePmBeVws

https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/education/wp/2016/04/13/a-students-satirical-essay-calls-for-extermination-of-black-people-stokes-racial-tensions/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AcrppFl3RXc

Choice and Consequence

2015-12-10T08:19:00.000-06:00

Our lives are the summation of all that we decide and all that we experience.

We all start out substantially similar; naked and in need of nurture. Those who care for us in our younger years establish the pattern that we later accept and reinforce, or reject in favor of another direction. Ultimately, we are the ones who shape our outcome and create our own destiny.

You make your own luck.

Some suggest luck is part of the equation, but that isn’t true. Luck is how we choose to take advantage of situations that arise. We are also in control of which circumstances present themselves by how we choose to position ourselves. Even those racked with indecision are still deciding their own destiny. As suggested in the song "Freewill" by Rush, "If you choose not to decide, you still have made a choice".

Vet your friends well.

As we see what’s happening around us, we see others where we would like to be ourselves. We may then follow their lead. That same way, we become an example for others as well. As that Police song alludes, “Every step you take, every move you make”, someone is watching you. We surround ourselves with others with whom we wish to be associated. “Guilt by association” is a real thing, but it can be a double edged sword. As others may see us similar to our companions, it is assumed we share both the bad as well as the good. We are taught to respect others on their own merits. Unfortunately, we don’t always have the opportunity for such in depth individual analysis, so our initial impressions tend to be based more on appearance and association. That is why an introduction from someone who is trusted carries such great weight. That is also why we need to choose our friends wisely.

Know where and with whom you stand.

Those we choose to represent us says much of who we are. Elected officials are a reflection of the electorate. Our nation’s founders understood that government can give nothing, but to acknowledge what already exists by the grace of God. They recognized that all men are bound by the “Laws of Nature and of Nature's God” and are “endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness”. From the Declaration that created our nation, those who governed made the most profound association, affiliation with the Creator Himself, choosing a clear direction.

Ours is a nation run by fallible people, and there is nothing build by humanity that cannot be destroyed, nothing chosen by us cannot be changed by later decisions. The United Stated began on a noble course, but in this past century is has been increasingly falling into disrepute from decisions made by the arrogant and shortsighted.

One cannot help but feel horror at those who still claim to be democrats after what happened at their 2012 party convention, rejecting God. Not once, not twice, but three times they voted to deny Him. The cock is crowing, and still they don’t hear; still they refuse to wake up.

Choice.

It is one of the greatest gifts from God aside from life itself and our salvation by the blood of His Son, Jesus Christ. We can choose to live our lives in a way that honor Him, or we can choose to reject him and bring disgrace to ourselves. We are merely imperfect humans, but God understands that. After all, He created us. That is why He sent His son, Yeshua Ha'Mashiach, Jesus the Christ, as our redeemer, to wash away our sin with His own blood. And all we have to do is believe.

"15 That whosoever believeth in him, should not perish, but have eternal life.

16 For God so loveth the world, that he hath given his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him, should not perish, but have everlasting life.

17 For God sent not his Son into the world, that he should condemn the world, but that the world through him might be saved.” John 3:15-171599 Geneva Bible (GNV)

https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=john+3%3A15-17&version=GNV

And this it the type of association of which I am more than happy to be found guilty.

Honor or dishonor, good or bad, wise or foolish, we choose who we are. We may credit our circumstances, or overcome our challenges, but ultimately we are the architects of our outcome.

I choose Grace over disgrace.

End the Zombiepocalyse Now

2015-10-06T22:09:00.001-05:00

Zombies are already here, and it’s a threat of biblical proportion.

All these movies and TV shows about zombies, and variations on the theme, they all tell the same story; global societal tragedy, and nothing will ever be the same.

And we see this happening right now.

The sickness is spreading wider every day. More are succumbing to the infection, dead inside, souls forfeit to a mindless existence.

That is why most people don’t even know it’s happening, but as expected, none of the zombies know they are even dead. Nobody sees it either. That is what makes it so insidious.

Most stories portray the zombiepocalypse as some sickness that kills the soul within, leaving only an empty shell and a thirst for the blood of others, thereby passing on the infection and in turn recruiting them to the cause of pure consumption… and there is no cure, but death.

The current affliction doesn’t kill the body, but the soul is no less at risk. We see the suffering every day when groups of mindless zombies roam the streets, spreading hate and destruction. Sometimes they act in secret, colluding in private, sucking in the lifeblood of the lonely and scared. Physical contact isn’t required to become infected. It can be passed by influence of the media.

Unlike what we are shown in the movies and on TV, there is a cure.

Those who suffer from this zombification can be saved from their mindless existence. The healing process is as long as the victims allow themselves to be victimized, but it’s fully restorative. The hardest part of curing a zombie is bipartite; getting them to recognize that they are ill, and helping them to want salvation from their personal hell.

The first part is a highly personalized process, as unique as each zombie. They all yielded their will for different reasons. It will take as unique of a measure to help them recognize and regain their sense of self and individuality.

The healing process is more universal. There is one way to save a soul. It’s frightening how many people don’t know, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16.
Yes, it’s Gospel and it saves, and recognizing this is how healing begins for us all.

It is through our individual acceptance in Jesus Christ that we are saved. It is our belief that sets us free.
"If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans 10:9

We all face the same choice, to be human or zombie, saved or damned.

“This day I call the heavens and the earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live” Deuteronomy 30:19

God is the lens that helps us focus on what's important in life; Faith, Family, Freedom. Its our belief in Jesus Christ that frees us. It's a choice, to live in the light of our Father, or languish away from Him, hidden in the shadows. It's the ultimate Liberty.

Elections: What’s the Point?

2015-09-02T09:39:00.002-05:00

Why do we vote?

The government in our representative republic requires tending. Most of us have our own pursuits that preclude our yielding to the continual distraction of daily governance. To that end, we hold elections, to choose people to act on our behalf.

What if the elected representative isn’t fulfilling all the duties of the office in question?

In the highest office of our nation, the election is multiple layers, by way of a proxy vote, with an electoral college casting the final ballot. For most other offices the election is by popular vote.

Every elector casting a ballot has their own reason for choosing a particular candidate. They may select the candidate that most closely appeals to their moral or logical stance, or maybe they just dig their hairstyle. Whatever the reason, it is no one’s business the the person holding the ballot.

Once elected that person is sworn in and has a particular function; duties that go with the office they were elected to hold. There is the business of the jurisdiction that must get done for which that official is held accountable.

What happens when the responsibilities change during the tenure in office? Usually, its just updated and absorbed into the daily routine. But what if that change is in conflict with the morals of the person chosen for that office?

There is the rub.

If we are electing people to merely accomplish a task, then it seems the position is best filled by hiring someone rather than going through the expense and trouble of holding an election. If the one we elect to do what is most popular, than an employee is the easiest way to get that accomplished. If we are electing someone because we trust their judgment in acting in our best interest, then we are justifying the reason for an election.

Those we elect hold an office of trust and responsibility, regardless of the level of government. They must act as our agents, doing for us on a daily basis what we cannot reasonably or responsibly accomplish. It holds that their judgment would be the deciding factor on whether to implement or reject a change imposed on their office, taking into account the method of imposition. Should the people find the decisions contrary to their sensibilities, then the official is likely to be replaced in the next election. If the offense is particularly egregious, then it may come sooner via recall or impeachment.

Why am I even bringing this up? It has to do with a County Clerk in Kentucky. Because a court has decreed a “right” that Clerk Kim Davis finds in conflict with her morals.

Now Ms. Davis is acting as barrier against implementation of “law” that wasn’t voted upon by representative government. She is using her critical evaluation skills and moral assessment by exercising her authority to stop that which she finds contrary to the best interest of her constituency. The signature of Kim Davis on the marriage license would be tacit endorsement of such a “marriage”, and she feels there is a higher authority to whom she must answer.
Would this be a legitimate reason to elect someone to office rather than hire an employee?

Elected officials act as a filter, slowing or stopping the onslaught of bureaucratic infringements in our daily lives. This comes with great cost and personal risk. That is why we they are elected, to carry the burden that comes with the office and standing on our behalf for what they feel is right. Those they represent will reward the discernment of the official at the next election, by reelection or retirement.

All Service is Customer Service

2014-11-19T08:16:00.000-06:00

Who do you serve?

CEO, clerk, cop, salesman, secretary, soldier, busboy, entrepreneur... There are so many different career options we face as children. So many different areas we can aspire to achieve our expertise. One thing that most people never realize is that they will always have the same underlying thread in the tapestry of all their careers. Whether working for others or working for himself, everyone must practice and perfect their Customer Service skills. The essence of customer service is agency. The server is the agent for the customer, assisting them to accomplish the task or satisfy a need.

Some people love to interact with other people. Others prefer their solitude and minimize their interpersonal contact. But if they are going to get paid, then they must all figure out how to make someone other than himself happy. Who are they trying to please, and how do they please them? The “how” is rather simple, just follow along.

I have worked at positions at many levels in several different fields. My first exposure to customer service was in kindergarten. When I followed the rules I was rewarded with gold stars and privileges. When I failed to obey, then others received the rewards and preferential treatment. *Know your customers rules.

One of my first paying gigs was mowing lawns. I knew that I had to do a good job if they were going to let me come back next week and mow again. *Keep the customer happy.

Then I got my first "real" job as a lot boy, cleaning cars and prepping them for delivery. I learned about greater attention to detail (and payroll taxes). My work was inspected, after which I was paid or sent back to do it right. *Understand your customers expectations.

When I joined the military, I was clearly at the bottom of the pecking order. As I demonstrated greater understanding and knowledge, I was trusted with greater responsibility. One learns quickly that much of what the job entails is imperative. When the call comes in for Time on Target, Fire for Effect, then the rounds MUST be at the right place, EXACTLY when they need to be there. *Your customer is depending on you to deliver.

Early on in my tech career it was my task to ensure others would be able to do their jobs better by keeping their tech in tip-top operation. Its easier to mine data and generate reports on computers that work. Equipment down equals lost productivity and lost revenue. *Your customer needs you to help them achieve more than they can alone.

In all the technology positions I have held, I have had access to sensitive information. Everyone in the Information Technology fields are tasked with varying degrees of maintaining security and integrity of this data and information. *Your customer is counting on you to look out for them.

These examples are by no measure an exhaustive list, but a tease and a challenge for others to identify how serving their customer fits into their own paradigm. Every job, every career, across all industries, private and public sector alike, it is the customer that defines success. It is up to us to rise to the challenge and overcome all barriers.

Now for the real question. Who is your customer?

The surly waitress, the testy clerk, the bureaucracy wrapped in red tape coated in winter molasses… all are the result of an apparent failure to recognize who they serve. This may initially appear to be simple to resolve, but there can be several layers involved, and potentially conflicting objectives to be met. The waitress may be serving several tables as well as giving the cook proper orders, while accomplishing the manager’s objectives. The clerk may have similar challenges with multiple customers and managerial tasking.

One of the more complex customer service challenges is faced by those employed in governmental service… the quintessential bureaucratic monster. Be it military, protective, or civilian service, the customer can be identified behind nearly every layer in the governmental onion. First, there is the public you face as you help them navigate the regulations to pay their fee or tax, for the permit or service they use. Next, is the direct supervisor who will submit and sign-off on the employees performance evaluation. There are the internal customers, other civil servants, that may require assistance to accomplish their objectives. The most important customer is the one that is rarely seen, the taxpayer, who has their personal earnings gleaned to feed the bureaucracy that serves the “greater good”.

As we serve our customers, we also serve ourselves when we remain aware of our relationship to all whom we serve. When we assume the role of customer, we also serve ourselves when we strive to understand the challenges of those who serve us in return. Who do you serve? You serve everyone, even those who serve you.

This note has been written as a service to my customer, you.

Your feedback is appreciated and will help me to help you better in the future.

We Train

2014-10-09T07:56:00.000-05:00

We Train

We hear the calling, so we answer it.
We will accomplish any mission, so we prepare for anything, for everything.
We feel the hunger, so we feed it.
We identify the limits, so we break through and define our own boundaries, and cross those as well.
We know our tools, and master them.

We are being challenged, so we face it, and defeat it.

Always Faithful, Always Ready, Always True... Always.

You will find us on the gleaming edge of finely honed steel.
You will see us in the twinkle of the eagle's eye.
We are everywhere we need to be.
When the time comes, we will be the line that is not crossed.
Until then...

We Train

Celebrate Unorganized Labor

2014-08-27T08:54:00.000-05:00

Once upon a time craftsmen sought to protect their craft, so they came together and formed guilds. This is how they were able to ensure only competent practitioners won membership. In this way they were able to protect their craft and reputations.

The trade unions of today wish us to believe that is still their goal. There are some who benefit from unionization and enjoy the representation in certain vocations. For the most part, the union movement has become a perverted political animal, siphoning the lifeblood of our economy to buy and curry political favor at all levels of government. In its basic essence, unionization is an attempt to make Marxism and central control palatable to the common man by trying to buy him off with higher wages, which the union skims off in the form of dues.

Most people are smart enough to realize they can do better on their own. According to Bureau of Labor Statistics numbers from 1983 show that 20.1% of US workers were union members. Since then there has been a growing number of states that have embraced Right to Work legislation. The 2013 numbers now show a decrease to 11.3% of US workers, and it continues to fall. Given the choice, most people have rejected union membership, and all that includes.

Choice.
That is the heart of the entrepreneurial spirit and a vibrant capitalist economy. And this is why we celebrate the Unorganized Labor Day Picnic as a way to acknowledge the majority of employed individuals who work without union affiliation or hindrance.

Patricia Ninmann for Sheriff of Dodge County

2014-07-30T22:41:00.000-05:00

Tuesday night was the debate for Dodge County Sheriff. I've had the opportunity to informally speak with each candidate individually on previous occasions. This was my first chance to see them head to head, each answering the same question.

The debate was sponsored by the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), and moderated by WBEV Station Manager, John Moser. It will be rebroadcast this Saturday on WBEV 1430AM.

This debate was where the real character of both candidates came to the forefront. As one of the candidates pointed out, there is a clear choice between the two of them. I have made my choice.

I endorse Patricia Ninmann for the office of Dodge County Sheriff.
Since her appointment to finish the term vacated by retired Sheriff Todd Nehls, Sheriff Ninmann has faced many challenges and successfully navigated the perilous waters of transition. She has demonstrated her dedication and responsibility to the citizens of Dodge County.

Sheriff Ninmann has broad based experience, having worked in most of the major divisions within the Dodge County Sheriff's Office, and the education to back it up. Her commitment has her continuing her education while still performing her duties, without fail.

Within the debate it became clear that Sheriff Ninmann has an understanding of the enforcement, technological, and personnel challenges facing the Sheriff's Office. It is also very apparent that she has the understanding to balance the public safety and fiscal responsibilities of the office. Most importantly, Sheriff Patricia Ninmann understands that as sheriff she is the highest legal authority in Dodge County and will protect the citizens from any and all infringements of their rights.

Security is a choice, and choosing to elect Patricia Ninmann for Sheriff on Tuesday, August 12th will provide the necessary basis the continuing security of Dodge County.

Take Care of Yourself First

2014-07-23T16:31:00.000-05:00

One of the most important things we can do that will benefit others may sound very selfish on the surface, but its not. In reality, taking care of yourself first is the most selfless act one can do.

Take care of yourself first.

That statement may piss of some religious folks who act reflexively to any phrase that doesn't begin with God. It will also put off a lot of people that continually sacrifice their own well being for the benefit of others, which is frankly just stupid. No one can fully love another without first knowing love of self. It is discovering the reflection within you, of what you can be, and letting it out. The best thing to do that will benefit everyone around is to learn who you really are.

Take care of yourself first, and discover your true nature.

In the Judeo-Christian tradition, in the very first commandment, we are taught “You shall have no other gods before me." As with all direct quotes from God, we have a clear declarative statement with no room for ambiguity or misinterpretation. In no way is taking care of oneself first subordinating God to self. Instead it is ensuring that God will remain properly honored. Only by defending one of His greatest gifts to us, that of existence and life itself, are we able to place none before God and follow His Word.

Take care of yourself first, to honor your God.

Some mothers may find taking care of them self first a particularly difficult concept to embrace, since they are hard-wired to protect their young at all costs... All Costs, up to and including their own lives. Some would suggest this is nature's way of promoting selflessness over selfishness and looking after others first. That would be an incorrect assumption. A mother's defense of her offspring is the pinnacle of taking care of herself. Our young are the most direct extension of our continuation as a species, and particularly our own unique genetic lineage.

Take care of yourself first, and defend your family.

We are currently living in an age where many willingly enter into servitude. In exchange for trinkets and baubles (EBT cards, Obama phones, and such) they subordinate themselves to the will of the state. They yield their future and embrace subsistence over success. Society works best when all are fully engaged and live their passion. Instead, I see a growing legacy of Freedom Lost. The course can be corrected, but the rudder won't change on its own. It takes grit and passion on the helm to steer toward the star of Liberty.

Take care of yourself first, to maintain self-determination.

Success of the community relies upon individual success. One cannot find ongoing success when that first milestone eludes them. By putting the needs of others above their own needs they are acknowledging that they aren't worthy of what they desire most. Community is the chain that links us all together in our society. Each member of the community must be strong and resilient to withstand the forces that will otherwise pull us apart. Do not be the weak link in the chain! Know your worth is as great as everyone else. To help hold our community together we each must be first strong enough to support our self before we can expect to support others.

Take care of yourself first, to build a strong community.

With everything going on in the world, it is easy to get lost. Work, home life, kids, finances, politics, taxes, war... we are constantly bombarded by information and demands, both positive and negative. Some find it very difficult to deal in such a place, so they try to escape. You cannot outrun reality, because it is everywhere. There is no place to avoid it, but there is a very simple way to deal with it. Get to know what is important to you and what matters in your life. Prioritize.

Remember: You will never be able to properly face any of it unless you Take Care of Yourself First.

Raising the Bar on "Bar Food"

2014-05-28T21:56:00.000-05:00

Midweek after Memorial Day, not quite getting into the work-week groove. Yup, we're going out for dinner... or so I was informed. That place with the pizza? I'm there!

Destination: The Perfect Mix, on Madison Street in Beaver Dam.
Mission: Consume a 16" Sheboygan Brat pizza on thin crust.
Method: Assisted by Miller Lite; just a pitcher or two. Definitely two.

We got there early enough that parking wasn't a problem. Rare, since we normally have to park on the street. That meant there was also plenty of seating, and our pick of big screen to park behind as well.

Missy came to meet us at our table and set us up with our (first) pitcher of beer. I had the feeling it was going to be a bit busier since I could see the volleyball players gathering for their league.

We put in our order for our pizza and added an order of boneless wings with General Tso sauce. Yes, I said "General Tso" wing sauce. Who does that? This place!

Shortly after bringing us our (second) pitcher Missy informed us that the chef felt bad about how long our order was taking to come up, so he was adding something special to our order. Special? Closer to phenomenal.

Moments after our pizza hit the table, it started to evaporate. Okay, we ate the heck out of it! Though we enjoyed the pizza on "rustic" crust previously (similar to other's hand-tossed), we tried thin crust this time and enjoyed it even more. The balance of sliced bratwurst, mozzarella diced peppers and sliced mushrooms on a traditional marinara did not disappoint. The boneless wings hit the table at the same time. The wings were more like chicken nuggets with a perfectly crisped batter and moist, tender meat within. The General Tso sauce was a sweet sauce with a slight tang. I expected a bit more heat, but the flavor was full without being overbearing or excessively sweet.

Shortly thereafter the chef, Erik Kruchten, brought out the promised special. The main focus turned out to be his sauces. First was onion rings, crispy outside and tender inside served with a ranch sauce upgraded with a tingle. One rarely finds rings prepared with such care, much less a worthy dipping sauce. The zing in the sauce and sweetness of the onions were mutually complimentary, making it easy to forget its a sports bar.

The real treat was the final offering; fried chicken strips. It sounds so pedestrian, until Chef Erik explained how he prepared it. We're talking about fresh chicken breasts crusted with Old Dutch potato chips, deep fried and crispy on the outside while moist and tender on the inside, much like the boneless wings. They were a treat all by themselves, but missing out on the smoky/sweet BBQ sauce would be a disservice to yourself.

Chatting with Chef Erik revealed a man who cares about his craft. His father may own the establishment, but its clear he has taken ownership of the kitchen. His resume and product are evidence that he is raising the bar for "bar food".

Yes, I'll be going back.

Password Secrecy akin to Personal Security

2014-05-27T14:09:00.000-05:00

Humans are creatures of habit and tend to prefer the familiar over the unusual. That is where we are most vulnerable.

Many of us tend to reuse passwords where we can. At work we are forced to use unique passwords, but at home we are not similarly compelled by network policy. Regardless, we must endeavor to do the same at home as we do at work.

Why does this matter? Failure to do so puts your personal information and identity at risk. It is even possible for those with nefarious intent to hijack your social media page or personal cell phone, as indicated in this linked article.

Change your personal password semi-frequently, at least a few times per year. When forced to change your password at work, try using that as your queue for home as well. Also, maintain similar complexity standards where you can. Some online systems aren't as sophisticated as what we employ at work and will not accept certain special characters or enforce the same standards. Still, do what you can to secure access to your information.

Your password is the key to who you are in the digital world. We’re talking about your name, your life, and your family. Only you have the ability and responsibility to keep the criminals where they belong, on the outside.

Quality Range Time with the CZ999

2014-04-18T22:55:00.000-05:00

My good friend bought a new pistol and wanted to share his thoughts about it. The only thing he lacked was a publicly available forum, so I am publishing this on Grant's behalf. Here is his report, by Grant D. Bolwell.

So, time for a range report and review of my new CZ999 Compact.

First time I have ever done one of these, so I am certainly not as knowledgeable or polished as some here. My aim is simply to pass on my findings as an average gun owner and recreational shooter.

Imported by Century International Arms, the Zastava CZ999 is a Serbian-made DA/SA pistol built along the Sig Sauer P226 lines. (Guess you can just call it a clone) It comes in both 9mm and .40 cal. "Full size" and compact models are available. It ships with two (2) 15 round, double stack magazines (9mm) instructions and a cleaning brush.

The description from CIA is:
"Our CZ999 and CZ 40 pistols are made in Serbia by the famous Zastava factory. Your choice of a high capacity 9mm with two 15 rd. mags. or the powerful .40 S&W with two 10 rd. mags. Both Pistols feature HI-quality alloy frames and all machined steel slides. Fully ambidextrous slide release/decocker and magazine release. Both pistols also feature chrome lined barrels, drop free mags. and three dot sights. Barrel: 3.86", Overall: 7.4", Weight: 2.03 lbs."

I like the ambi slide release (doubles as a decocker) and mag. releases. These worked well when testing for strong hand/weak hand operation.

External finish was acceptable. The slide (steel) seems to be "parkerized". The frame (alloy) has some type of coating on it. I used "synthetic" Gun Scrubber spray when giving the initial cleaning and it softened the coating. Eventually, I will decide if I just want the whole thing Duracoated. Internally, there are machine marks...nothing that effected operation or accuracy.

Anyone comfortable with a DA/SA style pistol should have no problem with the CZ999. The DA pull is very "revolver-like", as would be expected. Long, but smooth with a crisp break. I don't have a trigger pull gauge, so I have no clue how "hard". The SA pull seems to be almost identical to my Kimber TLE II. (I liked that!) Reset after firing takes the trigger back almost half way to DA position and the take up for the next shot seems long (to a life long 1911 user), but it is butter smooth.

I bought a SigTac P226 holster in the hopes the CZ999 is truly a P226 clone. It fit and functioned perfectly. (I held it upside down over the bed and shook the hell out of it.) I have ordered 2x extra mags from CDNN. EAA makes 15rd'ers for $20 each. If they work, I won't care if Sig mags work as they are 2.5 times the cost.

I put 6 different brands of 9mm through it. Unfortunately, all but one were FMJ/hardball. This is due to the cost of HP carry ammo vs FMJ vs my budget. All tests were done at 25 feet, off hand, modified Weaver. Why 25 feet? I don't know...that seems to be the distance all the gun writers use...lol.

Tested: Federal 115gr FMJ (Walmart stuff), MagTech 115gr FMJ, PMC Bronze 115gr FMJ, Freedom Munitions (reloads) 115gr FMJ and fittingly, ZVS 124gr FMJ. The HP was Hornady 124gr XTP. (sorry for the cell phone pic on that one.)

I had 100 rounds of Wolf Military 9mm that I wanted to try as well, but my indoor range will not allow any steel-cased ammo. After a couple of hundred rounds for break in, I loaded each mag with 5 rounds of each type tested.

So...out of about 400 rounds fired, I had only 1 failure to feed. That was last round of the first mag of Hornady XTP. As I want to use this as my carry ammo, I shot the rest of the box to make sure it was a one-off fluke. The other 24 rounds fed with no problem.

What did I learn? My particular gun shoots low. Also, if attacked by someone 20-40 feet away, standing stock still and not shooting back at me, I will be able to place 10 shots into his chest, center mass.

Best thing about this experience? $360.00, out the door.

For the fun of it, I include my plate of .45 from my Kimber. (shoots left, but another friend said we could fix it)

Comparison: Patriots vs Christians

2014-03-24T08:53:00.000-05:00

Having watched the movie God's Not Dead, some things I knew already floated to the top of my consciousness.

Its easy to see why the Patriot and Tea Party movements appeal to Christians. Its all about choice and free will.

The Christian faith is based upon willful acceptance of God as our Creator and that Jesus died to absolve us of sin. Christianity requires making the choice to accept this basic premise and acknowledge the truth of eternal life.

Tea Party and other Patriots wish to life their lives on their own terms, without outside encroachment. Increasing government "regulations" continue to encroach on our personal lives, infringing upon our ability live our lives as we see fit. One finds it difficult to host a cookout without running afoul of some rule restricting .

It is natural that people who truly understand and appreciate choice would make a choice that is based upon free will. No compulsion. No coercion. An option is presented, the alternatives weighed, and the decision made... a Christian is "born again".

Ultimately, its not that Tea Party Patriots want to impose Christian ideals upon our nation, but that Christians realize that our law is based upon morality that can only exist among people that recognize there is something greater than "here and now". Instead of abiding by Dostoevsky's statement - "If there is no God, then everything is permitted”, there is acknowledgement that because there is God, we must cede to a higher power.

Statist governmental philosophy places "the state" superior to "the individual". Contrary to Patriots, statists see the people as property of the state, not sovereign beings with their own right of self determination. The citizenry are seen as chattel or property rather than free or independent in their own right.

The same conflict between Statism and Liberty is the same conflict between Statism and Christianity, finding Christians and Patriots sharing opposition to a common foe.

I'll not deny that some who claim to embrace a Christian faith take a heavy handed approach in promulgating their religion, but those are the noisy few who ignore that embracing faith must be presented as a choice, not a demand. Sadly, those are the ones most likely to get press by a media desirous of giving faith a bad name.

In the end, we must make a choice. We are the masters of our own destiny. Will we choose a future where we determine our own course throughout life, or will we cede that control to others, like adult children in an eternal state of arrested development?

It all goes back to the Garden of Eden, when God gave Adam and Eve the first choice. By eating of the tree of knowledge they became self-aware. From that day forward all humanity has had the free will to choose or reject Him.

Statists place their faith in the state. They yield control of their lives and trust big government to provide for them.

Patriots embrace the challenge of Free Will and self-determination, and as result are more apt to embrace God.

The Science is Settled... Until its Not

2014-02-20T12:31:00.000-06:00

To declare that "the science is settled" is to say that we have arrived at the end, and there is nothing more to learn. However anyone fully versed in the scientific method understands that science to not a destination, but a journey.

All through the ages we can find when people thought "the science was settled."

Everyone knew the earth was unquestionably flat, until Columbus and Magellan put it to the test and Galileo proved mathematically that it was a sphere.

There was no question in the mind of most people that the earth was the center of the universe, at least until Copernicus published proof showing otherwise.

When man first took to the skies it was believed that trans-sonic travel would shred any aircraft attempting to go supersonic, until Chuck Yeager punched through that barrier.

Is the earth really suffering from so-called "Global Warming"? And a mere 40 years ago wasn't the imminent threat to humanity "Global Cooling"?

If anything, the science is proving that solar cycles have the greatest influence over cyclical weather patterns, where other indicators are more effect than cause as shown here, and here, and here.

Whenever someone exhibits the hubris to declare "the science is settled" on any subject, they only prove themselves to be closed to other possibilities, serving no longer as scientist but as evangelist for their particular flavor of faith.

Call them out.

There is always room to further examine the subject, identify the flaws in their argument and refine the conclusion.

Obama's Minimum Wage Hike Hurts His Base

2014-01-30T10:38:00.000-06:00

Barack Obama may have found a way to further destroy the economy while simultaneously improving the bottom line of big business and hurting the little guy. I'm speaking, of course, about his misguided proposal to increase the minimum wage to $10.10.

Obama claims to be looking out for the little guy, the young minimum wage earner. As if Obamacare wasn't enough of a blow taking away a huge chunk of their earnings, now he is working to remove their ability to earn anything at all.

A recent Chicago Business article discusses the move of some businesses to kiosk based customer service over the more traditional cashier method of taking orders in fast food establishments. While some smaller companies are taking a more aggressive approach to moving in that direction, larger corporations like McDonalds are taking more cautious and measured steps.

One of the reasons cited for McDonalds slow move in that direction is the capital cost of the kiosk, estimated at $4,000 each. This is not an insignificant chunk of change for a large company with such a commanding presence.

Increasing the minimum wage would create a new paradigm, completely changing the financial dynamic. At the current minimum wage of $7.25 and assuming a register is manned 24 hours a day, it would take 23 days for a kiosk to be paid for the the wages of a displaced worker. By increasing the minimum wage to $10.10 the payback time is dropped to 16 1/2 days to see a return on that capital investment. Had the bunch looking for a bump to $15/hour been successful, the financial return would have been less than 12 days. This doesn't take into account any of the payroll taxes that employees rarely see.

Barack Obama is increasing unemployment and making it easier to fire people.

Once a company has replaced an unskilled employee with technology, they have only to worry about maintenance and electricity. The benefits of using tech over flesh and blood means no more scheduling conflicts, failures to show up, discipline issues, personality conflicts, vacations... I think you get the point. Replacing an ongoing wage expenditure with a one time capital expense will continue to benefit the company by bolstering profits.

Barack Obama is helping big business make more money.

Technology is a major boon to our society and has enabled all of us to magnify our individual abilities, by covering the routine while we focus on higher level decision making. It provides a predictable and reliable experience. However, it can never replace that personal touch, that welcoming smile, or the ability to customize each person's needs. Tech is limited to its design, which is whatever menial or unskilled purosed it is to replace.

Barack Obama is trying to dehumanize our culture.

While Barack Obama speaks about how the little guy is always getting screwed, his is working to enact policies that would do so much more effectively with more profound results.

No, the minimum wage won't have any positive effect for workers at all. And in the long run it will be tragic to employers as well, since their greatest customers will have nothing to spend. The policies of Barack Obama are destructive to us all.

The only winner is Obama, as he creates a larger dependency class, dependent upon him.

Conservatives vs GOP?

2014-01-26T23:11:00.001-06:00

I hear so many conservatives speaking on all sides of the issues. One of the more disturbing conversations I hear is when they bash the political home of conservatives, the Republican Party.

I can understand when there are disagreements on how to accomplish certain goals. One sees that in many families, but more often than not, they work out the differences.

Its not really the conversation, but the tenor of it that I take issue.

Instead of using the differences of opinion as incentive to engage and win over those who may be incorrectly focused, they instead are choosing to disengage, opening a chasm of dischord.

This does not make for a happy family.

Yes, there are legitimate and serious issues to be addressed and differences of opinion to be resolved. Turning our backs and running away will not accomplish that.

To highlight this, I choose Governor Scott Walker's 2014 Wisconsin State of the State address.

In the address, Governor Walker spoke of the many successes enjoyed by those of us fortunate enough to live in Wisconsin. The state successfully turned a multi-billion dollar deficit into nearly a billion dollar surplus, enabling property taxes cuts every year of his tenure. Additionally, laws were passed that enabled each local governmental jurisdiction to gain greater control over their budgeting and personnel expenses, allowing for even greater tax reform. Wisconsin also enjoys an economy growing at a greater rate than the national average, as well as an employment rate also lower than the national average. All this reversing the trends of the previous administration.

Wisconsin's reality is among the greatest success stories in the United States, making for what may well be the ultimate reelection campaign ad for Governor Walker and the Republican legislature.

Yet for all the good done, there are those to say its not good enough.

We were all hoping that Walker would take a clear direct stand against Common Core State Standards, for instance. It wasn't until later that week when we finally heard him say something ambiguous on that subject.

I'm no partisan cheerleader, blindly lauding the GOP. But I DO recognize that the Republican Party is the best vector to achieve the Conservative goals of limited government and expanded freedom.

There are many issues yet to be addressed and our nation's future depends on them being properly resolved. But such differences are no reason to disengage. Instead they should be taken as a reason to stand up and say,
"Thank you for all you have done, but you're not done yet."

Less Politics, More Principle

2014-01-10T12:36:00.000-06:00

Political Party affiliation means nothing.

Republican... Democrat... Libertarian... Progressive... Green...
These party designations mean less and less each day. There is a new, more accurate scale to measure someone's political ideology; big government state-ist vs small government constitutionalist.

The lines increasingly blurred with every initiative coming from the seat of government, be it Capitol or County Seat, how "government" is going to improve our lives and fix our society. Ronald Reagan made it perfectly clear in his first inaugural address that more “Government is not the solution to our problem; government is the problem.”

It long been known that anyone claiming affiliation with the left is all about government based solutions over free-market resolutions. They will always opt to increase intrusion into what used to be our private lives. Now, we see an increasing number of politicians trying to wear the conservative mantle, only to find it doesn't fit when they act as proponents for the same invasive methods.

Republicans such as Paul Ryan and Marco Rubio, formerly seen as stanch Conservatives, are coming under fire from constitutionalists for their softening positions on immigration reform. While they still maintain a solid economic stance, they are allowing certain social objectives to cloud the ideological debate.

Too many in office no longer speak with the voice of those who elected them. Principles have been abandoned in favor of political expediency and cronyism.

And that is the real problem. Our elected representatives are getting involved in too many issues that are WAY beyond they authorized boundaries of support. Technologists understand the concept of "support boundaries". They realize that they are paid to ensure a certain piece of the puzzle functions as advertised. They cannot fix what they cannot fully control. Web, application, and database developers, operating systems analysts and network engineers all have their part to play and must know where their piece begins and ends.

Politicians have no such understanding that they must say "No". While the geeks face angry calls from users when their computers don't work the way they expect, elected officials receive similar calls from constituents when government "doesn't work" they way they think it should. In both cases, the end users are frequently wrong because they don't understand how its supposed to work. In both cases a little education goes a long way toward easing concerns.

The user manual for government comes in the form of a Constitution. There, one finds the over-riding definition of the primary support boundaries of government. Reviewing the voluminous tomes of nearly indecipherable rules, regulations and codes it should be obvious to all that all levels of government are exceeding the limitations placed upon them at their creation.

The Tea Party is a reaction to regulatory over-reach by elected officials, regardless of party affiliation. Though the Republicans initially seemed to appreciate the attention brought to these issues raised by the Tea Party, since they were the greatest beneficiary, that relationship seems to have soured a bit. It is clear that so-called "establishment" Republicans wish to retain the current governmental bloat. There are clearly elements more interested in retaining power and influence, than doing what is best for the nation, economy and citizenry.

We can no longer count on party labels to accurately identify acceptable candidates for office. In retrospect, we never really could. We must remain engaged. We must get to personally know who is representing us. Be it a local town or county board member to our congressman and senator in DC, we need to look these people in the eye. We need to research their history and position on issues.

We must choose people of principle to carry our voice.

Once elected, we need to hold them accountable. If necessary, we must vote them out in the primary or general election and replace them in office. No elected official deserves a lifetime seat in governmental office.

Once our elected officials are held accountable to their oath of office and the Constitution to which they are to abide, we can once again expect a government that serves We the People. Until then, we will suffer a bloated monster bent on consuming all we can produce, using all its resources of compel us into serving the beast.

Its all about the Constitution and government living within its means; both by the fiscal taxation on what we earn, and the regulatory taxation that burdens our daily lives at work and at home.