The Pragmatic Libertarian Coalition

The battery of government is coercion. Without coercion a government cannot collect taxes, protect its citizens from foreign invasion or perpetrations from within. The distinguishing characteristics from one government to another have everything to do with the extent and severity force is executed and the circumstances in which force is applicable.Government sanctioned force is arguably the cause of most human suffering today and since before the days of old. Historic accounts from varying perspectives support the notion that governments are the most dangerous institutions known.
Governments however, play a vital role protecting and maintaining civilized life. Without government everyone (instead of just most people) would suffer at the hands of unregulated warlords and thieves. It seems that civilization is caught in a hardcore catch 22.
Indeed government is perhaps the most feared criminal institution known to humankind. It is also true that government, armed to the teeth, is absolutely essential.Can we agree then that government is a necessary evil? If so would it be fair to say that government should exist but be severely restrained and regulated? Who has the greatest potential to cause much harm - groups or individuals?Certainly individuals are capable of causing harm, but causing great harm often requires conspiracy and collusion, also basic elements of government institutions. True representative governments must restrict their size and scope. When a government becomes so big that it diverts from the people, taking on a life of its own and seeking its own ends, it has become malevolently corrupt. At that point it's time to throw off the old government and start anew.

One Nation & New Immigrants

The following is a letter that came across Poffrono's desk in Tempe. Originally it was sent to actual media outlets who (not surprisingly) did not print it. Poffrono thinks it's beautiful and strongly advised that we post it forthwith



Dear Editor:

So many letter writers have based their arguments on how this land is made up of immigrants. Ernie Lujan for one, suggests we should tear down the Statute of Liberty because the people now in question aren't being treated the same as those who passed through Ellis Island and other ports of entry.

Maybe we should turn to our history books and point out to people like Mr. Lujan why today's American is not willing to accept this new kind of immigrant any longer.

Back in 1900 when there was a rush from all areas of Europe to come to the United States , people had to get off a ship and stand in a long line in New York and be documented. Some would even get down on their hands and knees and kiss the ground. They made a pledge to uphold the laws and support their new country in good and bad times. They made learning English a primary rule in their new American households and some even changed their names to blend in with their new home.

They had waved good bye to their birth place to give their children a new life and did everything in their power to help their children assimilate into one culture. Nothing was handed to them. No free lunches, no welfare, no labor laws to protect them. All they had were the skills and craftsmanship they had brought with them to trade for a future of prosperity.

Most of their children came of age when World War II broke out. My father fought along side men whose parents had come straight over from Germany , Italy , France and Japan . None of these 1st generation Americans ever gave any thought about what country their parents had come from. They were Americans fighting Hitler, Mussolini and the Emperor of Japan.

They were defending the United States of America as one people. When we liberated France , no one in those villages were looking for the French-American or the German-American or the Irish- American. The people of France saw only Americans. And we carried one flag that represented one country. Not one of those immigrant sons would have thought about picking up another country's flag and waving it to represent who they were. It would have been a disgrace to their parents who had sacrificed so much to be here.

And here we are in 2006 with a new kind of immigrant who wants the rights and privileges. Only they want to achieve it by playing with a different set of rules, one that includes the entitlement card and a guarantee of being faithful to their mother country. I'm sorry, that's not what being an American is all about.

I believe that the immigrants who landed on Ellis Island in the early 1900's deserve better than that for all the toil, hard work and sacrifice in raising future generations to create a land that has become a beacon for those legally searching for a better life. I think they would be appalled that they are being used as an example by those waving foreign country flags.

And for that suggestion about taking down the Statute of Liberty, it happens to mean a lot to the citizens who are voting on the immigration bill. I wouldn't start talking about dismantling the United States just yet.

Signed) Rosemary LaBonte

Nation Of Immigrants?

Click here and then scroll down to find Ernie Lujan's (BS)letter that did get printed.

Cease Fire Shaky At Best

From ABC News:
BEIRUT (Reuters) - Israeli commandos raided a Hizbollah stronghold in eastern Lebanon on Saturday in what Beirut described as a "naked violation" of the U.N.-backed truce that ended Israel's 34-day war with the Shi'ite guerrillas.

Full Story

Illegal Momma!

A illegal alien mom held up in a Chicago area church is tugging on the heart strings of America.

"She is the face of the movement," said Emma Lozano, executive director of the Chicago immigration-rights group Centro Sin Fronteras, who was at the church with Arellano.

"Elvira Arellano, 31, is not exactly the type of undocumented person that causes us concern", Said Poffrono Thursday.
"She was working as a cleaning woman when she was nabbed. No one can blame her for fleeing her brutally corrupt homeland with hopes of earning much higher wages. She was not suspected in any criminal activity other than her disregard for U.S. immigration law and Social Security fraud. You could say she is suspect of victimless crimes.”

Poffrono took a sip of his Celestial Seasons Green Tea and a hearty tug on his pipe...

“We hold that it's unjust to jail people who commit victimless crimes. We are highly skeptical of legislation that recognizes the notion of society being victimized collectively. Such law opens too many avenues for severe Government encroachment into our lives. Furthermore, this single mother's courage is impressive to say the least and that in itself makes her a desirable candidate for U.S. citizenry."

"On the other hand, we find it a tad disconcerting that Arellano showed flagrant disregard for U.S. law while simultaneously exploiting it. She entered this country illegally (ignoring the law) yet timed her labor to take place in America (evoking the law to her favor). Such a scheme requires intelligent planning and total lucidity.
Arellano indeed deserves commendations for her achievements to date. Even so, it is foolhearty to allow this illegal alien momma to remain here for even one more day. Let us not set a precedent that emboldens the anchor baby scheme. The last thing we need is a flood of pregnant undocumented rushing the border.
Just the other day a pregnant woman was hurt badly attempting what Miss Arellano ."

Poffrono got a phone call from his Mexican girlfriend and abruptly ended the blog session.



Illegal Momma

Former Jihadist Unveils The Truth

"No one (Arab or Jew) has a "right of return". Jews who fled Arab persecution from 1948 to 1956 should have no right of return to Arab lands, and Arabs who ran away in 1948 and 1967 should have no right of return either. This should end all argument. Yet the Jews accept this judgment, while the Arabs reject EVERYTHING."Learn more about the Courageous former Jihadist.

Poffrono Returns!

August 10 2006
Dahij Institute, Tempe:

Upon finally arriving home from his trip to Jerusalem and Bruit, Poffrono sat down with his wicked pen and wrote a letter to the Council on American-Islamic Relations regarding their demand that Washington restrain Israel. It read as follows:

Although I appreciate your interest in halting the destruction of Lebanon, I must take issue with your "Not in America's Name" petition.
Imagine that a renegade Mexican militant group procured 12,000 rockets and began firing them into U.S. neighborhoods. Do you think for a second that we would tolerate such nonsense? If such an attack occurred Bush would immediately order a severe counter strike that would not stop until the threat was wiped out completely. A cease fire with such a group would be entirely out of the question. President Bush is being a hypocrite by pressuring Israel to accept a cease fire or “hudna” if you prefer.
I doubt that you good people would support a cease fire with some Mexican Catholic Fascists who fire rockets into your neighborhoods. I find it likely that you ascribe different standards for Israel and America. Mayhap you believe that Israel possesses a lesser right to exist.
I am not a Jew and I believe that perhaps the world would be better off if Israel had not been instituted by the U.N. in 1948. Today however, 58 years later, Israel does exist and posseses an inalienable right to continue existing. Jews are human beings of immeasurable substance just like you kind folks. If fanatics continue insisting on the destruction of Israel then war is inevitable. If war is inevitable (and it appears so) Israel is wise to smash her enemies now while they are still the weaker party. Think of how tranquil the world would be if all Islamic states were wiped from the map?
We at the Dahij Institute are not advocating war with Islam. We do however declare war on everyone who supports Jihad. We hold strongly that Islamic states should not exist. Likewise, we don’t condone the establishment of Christian or Jewish states. Israel is not a Jewish state. They are a democracy and the government does not persecute and kill people for practicing other faiths. Not so with any Islamic state. The problem is with fundamental interpretation of Islamic Script. Islamic text does promote the establishment of an Islamic state whenever possible. Our hope is that moderate interpretations will prevail. Our great hope is that the Clerics who espouse hatred from the mosques in Riyadh tone down their rhetoric voluntarily. In the meantime Israel has not only the right but also the obligation to wipe out fundamentalist whack jobs and all of those who dare stand in her way.

Sincerely,
Poffrono
Dahij Institute

Islamists Foiled By Scottland Yard.

These are the names of 19 suspects reportedly being held by the police after the foiled plot and whose assets the Treasury has sought to have frozen.

Umir Hussain, 24, London E14
Muhammed Usman Saddique, 24, London E17
Waheed Zaman, 22, London E17
Assan Abdullah Khan, 22, London E17
Waseem Kayani, 28, High Wycombe
Waheed Arafat Khan, 24, London E17
Cossor Ali, 24, London E17
Tayib Rauf, 21, Birmingham
Ibrahim Savant, 26, London E17
Osman Adam Khatib, 20, London E17
Shamin Mohammed Uddin, 36, Stoke Newington
Amin Asmin Tariq, 23, London E17
Shazad Khuram Ali, 27, High Wycombe
Tanvir Hussain, 24, London E10
Umar Islam, 28, (born Brian Young) High Wycombe
Assad Sarwar, 25, High Wycombe
Abdullah Ali, 26, London E17
Abdul Muneem Patel, 17, London E5
Nabeel Hussain, 21, Waltham Forest

Bomb Away!

June 21 2006
6:15pm Tempe:
After an extended period of deliberation and introspection, Poffrono finally spoke in regard to present Israeli military operations:

"If Tempe was bombed by Islamic Fascists and I was killed, no doubt I would be numbered amongst civilian casualties. True I've never served in the military and I don't own a single weapon. Even so, I'm not an "innocent civilian". I am at war with Islamic Fascists! I support the effort with tax dollars. I believe in freedom and I loath governments with state religion. Add it up and that makes me a legitimate target - I'm bombable! So is my mom who voted for George W and my dad who designed the missiles being fired from the F15 fighters."
Poffrono took a hearty puff of his pipe and a sip of Miller Light before adding:
"Negotiation and concessions are foolhardy when trifling with militant religious whack jobs. Appeasement will never work with an enemy whose aim is genocide of an entire creed. Hezbollah and the likes of them don't need to be bitch slapped by an Israel with one hand tied behind her back. Hezbollah and their kind need to be obliterated outright. Let Israel destroy them now while they still can! Lebanese blood is on the hands of all of those who promote or condone Islamic jihad."

Big Goverment At Work

Drug Sense

Kim Jong ILL - Insane? Cunning? OR Both?

Wednesday, July 05, 2006 7:55pm Tempe:
Poffrono was unavailable for comment on July 04 but today he spoke out regarding the North Korean missile firings:

"North Korea's missiles were fired fittingly on the Fourth of July. Kim Jong Ill wants attention and he's becoming more adept at getting it with every passing day. Although he is definitely goofy looking and likely certifiable, Ill is not stupid. He's managed to indoctrinate most of his subjects while allowing them to freeze their little a holes off. North Koreans liken Ill to a god while they eat grass and even each other at times. Now Ill is on his way to holding the world hostage. Recently Iran did some saber rattling and got some attention. The result was an "incentive package" or bone if you will. Presently Iran is considering the "incentive package" (aka reward for bad behavior) and they said they'll get beck to us. Given enough time to weigh his options, Ill now busts his move. Now it's his turn to get paid."

More on Ill

Bio

Ill Wins The Lottery Again!

Arizona To Increase Sin Tax

PHOENIX -- "Arizona voters are likely going to have to decide whether to sharply boost the tax on cigarettes to fund programs for early childhood development.
Backers of an initiative drive filed more than 206,000 signatures Wednesday to put a measure on the November ballot to boost the levy by 80 cents a pack."

Arizona voters come November will choose whether to embark on a new government program touted to help underprivileged children. The measure, spearheaded by renowned do-gooders Eddie and Nadine Basha, aims to take a shot at smokers and help poor kids simultaneously. The initiative appears to be a politically brilliant maneuver according to Poffono.
"If the proposition passes, Arizona will get a new entitlement program supposedly free of charge. The majority of Arizona voters do not smoke so the new program won't cost most of us one red cent", Poffrono said. He later predicted, "Since smokers are an easy target and aiding poor children is an easy sell, this measure is likely to pass in November."

Proponents however concede that ultimately the program is self defeating:


One curious element of the measure is that if Basha is successful it actually would mean less money for the programs she wants to finance. That because more people quitting means fewer cigarettes sold -- and lower tax revenues. Basha said, though, that the net growth in state population, both native and migrating from elsewhere, should keep revenues relatively stable for awhile. "We believe we have a 10-year window," she said.



What Then?

Basha said that decade will "prove to the citizens of Arizona these are successful types of programs." At that point, she said, either the Legislature or the voters will have to decide whether to keep financing them.

In other words, it's only a matter of time before we all get taxed. Also, the story did not acknowledge that many Arizona smokers may simply get their smokes from duty free internet sites. Smokers aren't the brightest people in the world but it doesn't take a mathematician to find a way of avoiding the state cigarette tax. When smokers increasingly evade the tax by purchasing elsewhere, the Basha's will likely claim that their social engineering project was a success. They will suggest that a decrease in cigarette tax revenue is attributed to people kicking the habit.
The end result could cause a net reduction in revenue after the state exceeds Smokers' tolerable threshold of punitive tax. Already smokers contribute more than a hundred million to the state annually. Although Basha's plan is fundamentally flawed on many levels, at its source is genuine good intentions. The bashas are generous and have dedicated themselves to promoting child welfare locally. That said; the road to a socialist state is paved with good intentions.

In closing Poffrono issued a tongue and cheek proposal to Nadine Basha.
"Since obesity is a growing health concern for our children, maybe it's time for us fat people to pay our fair share. How about a 20 cent tax on a pint of Ben and Jerry's for starters?"


Fat Kids


Voters may decide new cigarette tax

Smokers Evade State Tax Here

Another way smokers can avoid the silly cigarette tax is to learn how to roll their own. By purchasing tobacco and rolling it themselves, smokers will avoid the tax altogether.

Hey Baby - It's The Fourth Of July!

IN CONGRESS, JULY 4, 1776
The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America

When in the Course of human events it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation.
We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. — That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, — That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shewn that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security. — Such has been the patient sufferance of these Colonies; and such is now the necessity which constrains them to alter their former Systems of Government. The history of the present King of Great Britain is a history of repeated injuries and usurpations, all having in direct object the establishment of an absolute Tyranny over these States. To prove this, let Facts be submitted to a candid world.

More

They’re Back – The Dixie Sicks and Sleazehan Invoke Constitutional Rights

In an interview with UK's Telegraph newspaper, Robison accused some country artists of jumping on the anti-Chicks bandwagon to further their own careers. She said, "A lot of artists cashed in on being against what we said or what we stood for because that was promoting their career, which was a horrible thing to do. A lot of pandering started going on, and you'd see soldiers and the American flag in every video. It became a sickening display of ultra-patriotism."

From Yahoo News.


...Natalie Maines also confessed that she does not understand patriotism:

“…You can like where you live and like your life, but as for loving the whole country... I don't see why people care about patriotism."

If that’s how you feel Natalie then what was all that gushy patriotic talk we heard in the midst of your melt down March 2003? Were you being less than honest when you said???

"While war may remain a viable option, as a mother, I just want to see every possible alternative exhausted before children and American soldiers' lives are lost. I love my country. I am a proud American."

It’s all about you Dixie Chicks. Your claim that country artists display patriotism solely to diss you is laughable. If our soldiers and our flag sicken you, maybe you should consider upping your meds. Perhaps Discovery Channel will feature you on their hit show Intervention. Just kidding but seriously..

Understanding patriotism requires an appreciation for history. History buffs know that America founded the guarantee of free speech in the modern age. Our constitution is the oldest one standing. Many fundamentals The American Constitution have been adopted or mimicked by other nations.
Today, long after America’s forefathers sparked a worldwide movement, freedom of speech is no longer perceived as an American product. History reveals however, that everyone in the free world who benefits from such constitutional protections is indebted to American Troops.
If it weren't for our soldiers Miss Maines, you would not have had a career to destroy. Also, you would be more likely shut your pie hole.
That goes double for you Sleazehan (aka Sheehan)

She's unattractive and she's a poor spokesperson. She is however a self proclaimed victim and that makes her an asset to the left. Or so they think. Keep talking Cindy!

Cindy in Canada

Link from the left (in fairness)

Just Another Stunt?

Before Katrina the President lost the support of some Fiscal Conservatives upset that he had yet to veto a single spending bill.
After Katrina, President Bush embarked on a downward spiral unprecedented since the Carter Administration. People with little psychic endowment could predict with confidence - the President was going down.
First came the Katrina aftermath. No one really approved of the Government’s handling of the disaster. Conservatives arguments defending Bush had to do with the extent the Feds should assume responsibility for evacuation and relief. They pointed out that local authorities did little to help their neighbors. Basically they just waited for the Feds (i.e. the rest of us who chose to live above sea level) to step in and save them. The media and the left went on a spree of attacks that appeared to send George Bush into a tailspin. On November 14th 2005 CNN reported that Bush’s approval ratings dropped to an “all time low” 37%.
Time is also working against the President in Iraq. Katrina and bad news from the front cost him all his fair weather fans.
Just when things couldn’t get any worse for the Bush-Whacker they did. Recently, when the border (or lack thereof) came to a major head, Bush tried to walk a mighty thin line and faltered heartily. Dissent spread quickly amongst Conservatives who dominate the AM radio. Many of Bushs' staunchest allies were blasting him on the air. By February 2006 Bush’s numbers fell below the Carter range (30%). Add it up and it's fair to say that by the end of 2005 Bush was pretty much shaved.
Then came along Tony Snow. Shortly after Snow’s appointment as Whitehouse Spokesman, the President “turned the corner” and things started looking up. He tried to throw Conservatives a bone with talk of beefing up border security but his hardcore constituents weren’t buying. The President then made a lame attempt to woo Conservatives with a futile gay marriage ban amendment bill. That is likely the gayest thing our President has ever done.
Within the last week however, the President pulled a couple of cues (if you’re conservative) or stunts (if you’re a lefty). Greasing Zarqawi was a major score for the President much to the discomfort of Americas Liberals and enemies alike. Bush scored an extra point with his bold and rather daring surprise visit right into the heart of the war zone. May there be hope for this Administration yet?




Terrorist felt that they were loosing before Zarqawi took final gasp.


From NBC


Disarray

Zarqawi Eliminated! Beginning Of The End?

Thursday June 08, 1:11am Tempe:
I woke from a nightmare early Thursday. I was paralyzed for a few moments before coming fully aware. The nightmare had to do with reports of me getting killed.
I sometimes sleep with the am radio on and it’s not uncommon for the radio content to influence my dreams. When I first heard the news of Zarqawi's demise I thought I was still dreaming. It didn't take long however, before I realized the reports were not part of my nightmare. The report came from Fox News, but it sounded credible nonetheless. :)
Imagine the relief I felt finding that it was the evil Zarqawi getting killed and not me!


The greasing of Zarqawi in terms of its strategic significance is being understated by much of the mainstream news. Even so, statements from the left were not Cynical to the degree anticipated by some right wing talk show hosts. I was surprised by the reaction of the father of one of Zargawi’s victims. He lamented Zargawi’s death and in effect put Zargawi on an equal moral footing with his son. He is likely suffering from "Sheehan Syndrome."

What da???

Captured Alive!

Interesting Retrospective

Less Than One Week Ago

Special Report: Poffrono Takes Fire From The Left

Sunday June 04, 2006
3:31pm Tempe:
An email entitled Why it's over for braindead American Fascists like you caught Poffrono's eye Sunday. It was an impassioned response to Poffrono's recent report on the Iraq War claiming a net gain in lives.

The shots were fired early Saturday by one George Freespirit.
Be warned the following email contains coarse language and is likely unsuitable for dignified readers.

George Freespirit wrote:

"Shitheadski You make the critical error of keeping your head so far up your ass that you are unable to recognize or comprehend what is actually going on. Once you've done that - you've lost your mind and all semblance of rationality. Your level of ignorance is only matched by your stupidity and blind jingoism. If you think that the war in Iraq is saving lives then you are indeed certifiable and you should turn yourself in to the medical authorities for immediate treatment, possibly electro-shock therapy."

Iraq death toll 'soared post-war' Poor planning, air strikes by coalition forces and a "climate of violence" have led to more than 100,000 extra deaths in Iraq, scientists claim. A study published by the Lancet says the risk of death by violence for civilians in Iraq is now 58 times higher than before the US-led invasion." BBC News - 29 October, 2004

"The war in Iraq is saving lives. (LOL) If you don't believe me do some eighth grade math: (Ha, talk to me again when YOU pass the fourth grade, you clueless nitwit)."


Poffrono responded from his Tempe Compound Sunday:

"You may have a point about the shock therapy and the jingoism. That given, if I wanted to be unfair I would cite the lowest estimate I could find (16,000). The 100,000 figure you’re using comes soley from the Lancet Study. Lancet, a highly respected medical journal, is forthright with flaws in their reports."

From The Washington Post:

… The researchers and the Lancet editors acknowledged that the study has clear limitations, including a relatively small sample of violent deaths that were examined directly and the researchers' reliance on individual memories for some information…

…Garlasco of Human Rights Watch said it is extremely difficult to estimate civilian casualties, especially based on relatively small numbers.

"I did not use the Lancet study because it is flawed and it represents an extreme and unsubstantiated opinion. Likewise, I did not use the low estimate of 16,000 either. The figures I decided to go with came from:

Iraq Body Count

The good people at Body Count hardly support Bush’s foreign policy. I stand by my estimate of 40,000 because it's the fairest estimate I could find short of clinging soley to the Lancet Study. No one knows how many civilians were killed by U.S. intervention.

I also employed a ridiculously low estimate assessing murders attributed to Tyrant Saddam Hussein. I did not include deaths resulting from the Tanker War (1980-88). The casualties of that war (estimated 1 million +) can be credited to Saddam and the son of a bitchen Bathists. I did not include civilian casualties from Saddam’s invasion of Kuwait.

>Liberal estimates of Saddam’s death toll reach 3 million!

I stand by my results but admit that like everyone else, I’ve probably missed the mark. Even so, it is fair to say that U.S. intervention is saving lives.
At the very least it is lazy and wrong to liken America to Natzi Germany or Stalin's Russia like you did with your anti-American propaganda on the message boards. Such comparisons are just plain asinine!"

The Gadsden Flag

I love the Star Spangled Banner but this is the American Flag I chose to hang above the fish aquarium. If you're a history buff like me you might enjoy this site:

Gadsden Info

Trading News Update: Hardcore Volatility – Opportunity Abounds!

Early Results are in from the purchase of ACLS

After nearly two weeks of holding 100 shares, I find the report mixed but generally positive. ACLS caught my eye because it had suffered from market conditions not relevant to the stocks core value. It looked dirt cheap! Who doesn't love a dirt cheap stock? Also I've talked before about investing in inevitable trends that you do not like. No one I know would like having a computer chip implanted in them. Since you do not like the idea of spy chips tracking people, it's only a matter of time before you get chiped yourself. Why not at least make a few bucks by investing in the technology that makes chips better? Axcelis is an inovative group developing semiconductor technology. All kidding aside I kind of like ACLS.
The purchase occurred the Monday before last. Take a look at the chart and you’ll see the hardcore volatility. Note the chart shows that it resisted pricing below $6.00. Consider the bear attack against the big markets early this week. It’s likely that if ACLS was going to close in the $5.00 range it would have done so Monday or Tuesday. Wednesday the stock rebounded favorably with the upturn of the broader market. The down side - attaining sizable revenue with this stock may take a while.


This is a long hold with a chance of a modest return within two to five months. I’d say that Axcelis Technologies is a low risk, modest return stock. Although ACLS is a solid investment, I’m certain that much greater opportunities abound out there. We'll see if my prediction is holds water in the comming weeks. I've been wrong before ;^)


Total cost: $635.00
Value 06/01/06: $664.00

Ideas Roll West II

The Pussification Of America (oops I mean The United States)

It took shape in 1913 when representatives empowered the Federal Government to collect income taxes forever. New life was breathed into it in 1935 by the Social Security Act. Floods of tried ideas rolled in from the east and nurtured it from inception to autonomy. Today, like Frankenstein, American Socialism is bigger than the hand that feeds it. If not stopped or slowed to a trickle, we will soon be no better off than France. Just kidding but seriously ...I intend to link progressive ideas with heavy taxation and big government. This paper will also claim that a softening or pussying (if you will) of America is underway.
One by-product of ideas continually rolling west is the dilution of the bold and defiant spirit that once defined us. We still value individual rights and responsibilities but to a lesser degree. Today we accept Governments larger role in our lives. It may seem a trivial example but when I was a kid there were no seat belt or helmet laws. Such laws would have been laughable. Today, an apathetic populace accepts legislation that protects individuals from themselves. Americans now accept the premise that government knows what's best for them.
Adopting precedent, big or small, that allows government to assume paternal control is likely an unwise move. Paternalistic laws, though largely the products of good intentions, lead us down a narrowing path of government encroachment. Little by little the government will expand its capacity to parent the governed. It may start with a seat belt law here and a tobacco or junk food tax there. Soon there will be little discussion over whether the government has parental authority over us but rather to what extent. Line drawing along a slippery slope is troublesome and should be avoided whenever possible. Along a slippery slope, judges are likely to do more line drawing than working guys like you and me.
Many Scholars are skeptical of slippery slope arguments. They maintain that slippery slope is a scare tactic not rooted in fact but rather paranoid speculations by reactionaries like myself. They may be right in most cases but history provides examples supporing my claims.
Consider that before 1935 there were no federal drug laws. Today (in some states) Visine in your pocket may suffice for probable cause to search your house. Also, consider the following excerpt from Wikipedia regarding asset forfeiture legislation:

...In 1984, Congress catapulted asset forfeiture into the political landscape, with the passage of the Omnibus Crime Bill, which drastically changed the federal forfeiture laws. The bill vastly expanded the forfeiture laws applicable to drug offenses. It mimicked the Customs laws by making the process "in rem", which means against the property itself instead of against its owner. It used the "in rem" label as an exception to basic constitutional principles as it took away any semblence of due process for the hapless forfeiture victim.

www.answers.com/topic/asset-forfeiture



With little effort I was able to site two examples of slippery slope in action. Let's not even get started with the recent imminent domain phenomenon. Judges, like politicians, are predisposed side with the government. Think about whose buttering their muffin. In other words, who’s issuing their paychecks?


Well it's getting late and I got some chores to do…


Kitty cat photo: /www.toppetinfo.com

Bush and Mccain Are Totally Lame

The following was anonymously posted at craigslist:


Coming to a city near you soon!

As you all listen to the news about the student protests over illegal immigration there are some things that you should be aware of.

As most of you know my wife is in charge of the English-as-a-second-language (ESL) department at large southern California high school, which is designated a Title 1 school, meaning that its students average lower socio economic and income levels. Most of the schools you are hearing about--South Gate High, Bell Gardens, Huntington Park, etc.--where these students are protesting, are also Title 1 schools.

My wife tells me that 100% of the students in her school and other Title 1 schools are on the free breakfast, free lunch program. When I say free breakfast I'm not talking a glass of milk and roll...but a full breakfast and cereal bar with fruits and juices that would make a Marriott proud. The waste of this food is monumental, with trays and trays of it being dumped in the trash uneaten.

She estimates that About 75% or more have cell phones.

The school also provides day care centers for the unwed teenage pregnant girls so they can attend class without the inconvenience of having to arrange for babysitters.

She was ordered to spend $700,000 on her department or risk losing funding for the upcoming year even though there was little need for anything; her budget was already substantial. She ended up buying new computers for their computer learning center; half of which, one month later, have been carved with graffiti by the appreciative students who obviously feel humbled and grateful to have a free education in America.


Free medical, free education, free food, day care etc. etc. Is it any wonder they feel entitled to not only be in this country but to demand rights, and entitlements?


To my bleeding-heart liberal friends who want to point out how much these illegal immigrants contribute to our society because they LIKE their gardener and housekeeper and they like to pay less for tomatoes: spend some time in the real world of illegal immigration and see the TRUE costs. Higher insurance, Medical facilities closing, higher medical costs, more crime, lower standards of education in our schools, overcrowding, new diseases etc., etc., etc.. For me, I'll pay more for tomatoes.

We need to wake up. The guest worker program will be a disaster because we won't have the guts to enforce it. Does anyone in their right mind really think they will leave and return voluntarily?

What's The Deal With Iran?

Dan:

"Every time I read something about the Iran/uranium enrichment/UN Security Council/sanctions situation, Iran seems defiant and is basically giving the finger to EU, US, UN Security Council, and the Nuclear watchdogs. Shit, we've got enough problems with Iraq. Our military is already spread thin. What would we do if Iran, Russia, and China stood up against the US and Europe? World War Three. Damn. That's scary."

Poffrono:

"It is a scary situation. The crisis brewing with Iran is is heading toward a hardcore confrontation. Those sun of a bitchen Iranian tyrants are determined to cause us harm. It is doubtful however, that the Russians and the Chinese would risk engaging the U.S. and E.U. militarily. Although the Russians and the Chinese have economic ties with Iran, we are still their best customer. The Russians, though much different from us aren't criminally insane like the Islamic Fascists who rule Iran. We must continue to pander to Russia and China but only for a time.
They may protest hardily, they may posture militarily but in the end they will back down. The Russians and the Chinese know that military intervention would be suicide. We are still protected by the concept of mutual assured destruction (MAD) when dealing with the Russians and even the Chinese.
The (MAD) law does not apply to martyrs for allah. They are on an unequal moral footing - less is expected of them morally and that's what makes Islamic fascists dangerous. Everyone must understand why it is so imperative that evil Iranian leadership do not acquire nuclear weaponry.
Let's not fail to act while the consequences are endurable. If Iran continues its present course a nuclear crisis or hostage situation is imminent. These guys are bastards and they get extra points for killing people.
It is likely unwise to fret unnecessarily with the prospect of war with a non nuclear Iran. Like Saddam’s Republican Guard (who were puffed up by the pussies to the left), Iranian militarily resistance would be crushed in a matter of days. I remember much talk a few years ago of fears that it would take many months to topple Saddam. The same will hold true in the unfortunate event that war with Iran ensues. Also let us not forget that Israel is the major power of the gulf region. Israel stands undefeated against the Islamic fascists in two wars. Israel will kick fanny again - It's only a matter of time."

Trading News Update: Gold Corp Shares Sold.

Whew! That was a long ride. It's been over a year since I bought 100 shares of Gold Corp at $12.41. Friday I finally sold stock for $37.90! Good thing I sold it when I did, actually I should have sold on Wednesday. The stock had soared to over $40.00 before beginning its correction.



http://www.google.com/finance?q=GG

Still, $37.90 wasn't bad considering GG closed today under $34.00. I continue holding 23 shares of GG in my retirement account. I will recommend GG if you're long. I sold it because I needed to free up some cash to buy another cheep stock.
This Morning I did a little day trade that proved to under perform. I purchased 166 shares of Orion Resources (NTO). Like Gold Corp, NTO is mining for gold, but in Argentina and Cuba. I figured that since these are countries I do not like, investment in them would be a wise choice. Truth of the matter I sold too soon. I got in at $5.12 and skipped out at $5.35. The stock closed at $5.27. My guess is I should have hung in there. I expect it will climb in coming days. Although the trade did not meet my greatest expectations, I did manage to add $26.00 to the coffers. Actual gain was $46.00 but I had to pay $20.00 in commission. Not bad considering they procured the shares at significantly less than the limit I placed. Well it's past my bedtime. The market opens at 7 am Arizona time and I want to see how my next purchase goes. I placed an order for ACLS solely because it has taken an unnecessary beating lately. Considering the sudden and marked downturn of the market in general, I anticipate ACLS to recover near it's 52 week high. THis will likely be a long position. I'll give it a week and We'll see what happens :)

New report suggests Iraq war saving lives.

May 13th 12:34pm Tempe:
Poffrono said Saturday that the net result of US intervention in Iraq is in Bush's favor:

“…Estimates vary but it’s fair to say that during Saddam Hussein’s reign (24 years) he was responsible for at least 500,000 deaths. Study results reported a conservative estimate of 57 people killed every day Saddam was in power”, He continued, “ in this study we entered a median estimate of 40,000 Iraqi civilians killed by US military intervention. The campaign has drawn on now for 1,000 days. Study results average about 40 people US intervention kills daily. The report concludes that US intervention saves 17 people every day or 17,000 people to date.”

Nation Of Immigrants? (part 2)

After the turn of the 20th century America needed more immigrants to settle the lands of the fruited plain. Immigrant labor built the infrastructure that later empowered the U.S. to liberate and rebuild Europe twice; (circa 1918) and again (circa 1945).
Historically, new immigrants be they Irish, German or Italian, had a difficult time gaining acceptance by the locals. They did demonstrate however, the desire to assimilate into the emerging culture. They shared attributes of their various cultures with the locals, who in turn shared knowledge from the collective culture of the prior assimilates. Many cultures did clash here. Eventually though, an alloy (if you will) resulted from the melding of so many cultures together - hence the super-culture theory.
The super-culture's pervasiveness knew no boundaries. Over the span of many decades its influence grew so far that it eventualy began defeating itself. People worldwide so readily accepted the universal values of liberty, consent of the governed and so on, that the idea of an American cultural identity became a myth. Our cultural identity is ill perceived simply because human beings naturally adopt it. The super-culture, resulting from a great myriad of cultures, could be destroyed by a massive and sudden influx of one powerful and ethnocentric culture from the south. A huge and unregulated infusion of Mexican nationals is likely to throw everything out of balance and F us all up hardcore.

Today's immigrants face different challenges than the ones that built this country. Today's legitimate immigrants must compete with a well calculated, illegal and overwhelming invasion of foreign nationals. Soon there may be talk of a moratorium on immigration (from the south) altogether.

Who Is Poffrono?

Poffrono is a self proclaimed Patriot and Pragmatic Libertarian. His views, though likely appearing controversial to most respectable people, are well grounded in a philosophical foundation of liberty and the American Way. Poffrono tests his views against the Rule-Utilitarian ethic and the Respect for Persons moral code. A pragmatist, in principle, poffrono is eager to appreciate and on rare occasions adopt contrary views. Poffrono has recently changed his views on capitol punishment for example.

You might ask why I insist on referring to myself in the third person?
...Because Poffrono is my evil Blogger alter ego. My real name is Bubba Higgs.

An investment strategy that just might work.

Invest in the inevitable trends you do not like! The fact that you do not like it and you are powerless over it, suggests that the trend will continue. For example, you may have noticed that world instability has risen markedly in recent years. Tension in the middle east continues to build no matter what we try. Bill Clinton even poured his heart and soul (and possibly other parts of his anatomy) into the matter and yet evil instability continues to mount.
How can you invest in and profit from world instability? Simple! BUY GOLD.
Historical market data is so clear on the subject that it's practically a law of economics. Last year I decided to bet against myself and George Bush by investing in world instability. I invested in gold indirectly by buying shares in a gold mining company that's hording gold. The result is a return that is already huge and growing still. As oil prices rise gold tends to follow suit. Consequently gold is as good as gold right now.
Another example of an inevitable trend that you do not like is catching on here in Arizona. Photo radar cameras are popping up all across the desert floor.

Math is my worst subject but I can add:
Photo radar incroaches on your liberty just a tad, it's a quick fix for local governments hard up for cash and it gives polliticians a photo opp. Add it up and you've got an inevitable trend. So I command you for your own benefit - find out who manufactures those cameras and post it on here so I can buy it.
Well it's 9:07 time to sign off for now.

Got weed?

Visit http://www.drugsense.org for more info.

Nation Of Immigrants?

This country was built by immigrants but that was a long time ago.
In the early days immigrants assimilated into the fledgling culture out of necessity. People who came here prior to the 20th century faced months of treachery at sea. They must have been the most daring and optimistic people of their time. The early immigrants had to leave everything behind knowing they may never return. Not so with today’s immigrants.
Before the 20th century, the new world immigrants sought did not boast of better schools. There were no food stamps; no access to free medical care. Back then, America was not strong. Before and during the war of 1812 America was under constant threat of attack. It wasn't until after the Spanish-American war (1898) that the U.S. introduced herself as a world power. After the turn of the century America needed more immigrants to settle the lands of the fruited plain. Immigrant labor built the infrastructure that later empowered the U.S. to liberate and rebuild Europe twice; (circa 1918) and again (circa 1945).
Historically, new immigrants be they Irish, German or Italian, had a difficult time gaining acceptance by the locals. They did demonstrate however, the desire to assimilate into the emerging culture. They shared attributes of their various cultures with the locals, who in turn shared knowledge from the collective culture of the prior assimilates. Many cultures did clash here. Eventually though, an alloy (if you will) resulted from the melding of so many cultures together - hence the super-culture theory.
Over the span of many decades the super-culture's pervasiveness knew no boundaries. Eventually, its influence grew so far and wide that it began defeating itself. People worldwide so readily accepted the universal values of liberty, consent of the governed and the like, that the idea of an American cultural identity became a myth. Our cultural identity is ill perceived simply because human beings naturally adopt it The super-culture, resulting from a great myriad of cultures, could be destroyed by a massive and sudden influx of one powerful and ethnocentric culture from the south. A massive and unregulated infusion of Mexican nationals is likely to through everything out of balance and F up the super-culture.

Today's immigrants face different challenges than the ones that built this country. Today's immigrants must compete with a well calculated illegal and overwhelming invasion of foreign nationals.
Today an estimated 11 million immigrants are here illegally. The vast majority of them (estimated 90% optimistic) are good people who contribute to the economy and send an estimated 26 billion dollars a year back home.
That leaves roughly 1.1 million people who are up to no good. a sovereign nation reserves the right to know what immigrants' intentions are. We need to know that they love America. We need to be assured that they can support themselves and their families without public funds. And Yes - Of course they will need to learn English. Likewise, people living in areas with large Spanish speaking communities would do well to learn Spanish. Mi gustaria aprendar hablo Espanol mejor. necesita una professora y practica y mas practica!

Mass immigration without mass assimilation is a recipe for disaster. A true immigrant (one who chooses to become an American) should want to adopt the language and customs of their new home. If even solely for their own benefit. After all it is all about them and what they need right?
>The Star Spangled Banner was written by a witness to a battle during the war of 1812. The song depicts the patriots' valiant struggle against the super tyrants of their age. The Spanish version of the song does not even try to capture the sentiment that inspired our anthem. The Spanish version of the Star Spangled Banner exhibits a different sentimentality altogether; one of entitlement and race baiting - it was a disgrace. A translation with more patriotism and less cynicism would not draw as much consternation from people who love this country.

The American Foreign Legion

Lately we’ve been told that hatred for America is at an all time high. At the same time, hundreds of thousands of courageous individuals clamor to reach our soil every year. How can such a disparity be reconciled? If there exists a means of using this magnet of hope to our advantage, why not? Does not the fact that multitudes of people risk their lives to join us lend us some moral capital?
In this war on terror we need more patriots on the ground! The Bush Administration is adamant with their assurances and reassurances yet our troops keep getting killed! The increasing casualties are due in part to lack of support personnel.
Maybe now's the time to grant citizenship to illegal immigrants and foreign persons who volunteer for service in a new paramilitary force.

Our war on terror carries precedence over any other war within which we are now engaged. Even so, our Government is entangled in several wars simultaneously. The drug war for example, has consumed 17 trillion dollars and produced nothing of substance (no pun intended). Considering our present crisis, why not also allow those on the fringes of society (including those serving prison time) to volunteer for a noble cause, allow them to serve their country and repay their debt with courage and valor? Consider the hundreds of thousands of people serving time for crimes that did not result from a complaint filed by a victim. Consider those, who did not cause or intend to cause great harm on another, who may possess a longing desire to become a better person and/or mitigate the damage that their criminal conduct has caused. Pardons could be earmed by non violent offenders who volunteer for a term of service ranging from two to six years.
The American Foreign Legion could become a well trained, fully equipped paramilitary organization. They could provide enhanced security and support to fledgling Iraqi police precincts. They could be the eyes and ears needed to thwart future terrorist ambushes.
Including prisoners and parolees and people seeking adventure or respect or redemption in the American Foreign Legion can also have a rehabilitative effect on the volunteers.
Naturally such a unit would be tightly regulated and highly disciplined. The Foreign Legion would be regarded as non- military personnel, though their leadership would consist of distinguished military officers. Also, the compensation for the Foreign Legion would be less that that afforded regular enlisted military volunteers. Foreign Legionnaires will be motivated primarily by their hope for either forgiveness or acceptance. Foreigners who volunteer will prove that they are deserving of citizenship. Likewise, citizens who find themselves marginalized due to negligence or even criminal conduct (not resulting in the great harm of another) will volunteer for an opportunity to become de-marginalized.