PRESIDENT OBAMA .........IS ON DECK

Barack Obama has been President for a year........and one thing is for certain.......He has been active and not afraid to make decisions.....whether it involved the economy, health care or an assortment of other issues........... he has been " out front"

This is true whether you like it or not.............

However the time has come for him to involve himself fully in the issue of security.He is scheduled to receive a report today on "what went wrong with the Christmas Day Bombing".........

It is too late to blame the prior administration.........The" threat of terror" has been their all along and anything that happens is in the "lap of his appointees".I hope that he acknowledges this immediately.........and gets serious about the safety of all Americans....It is his time "at bat"........

SURENDRA DANGOL.....RIP

You Tube has the video which shows the last moments of Surendra Dangol's life on this earth.He was a clerk at a Tedeschi's Store in Jamaica Plain and after being confronted gave the robber all the money......He was then murdered in " cold blood"........The amount stolen was not a large amount and he gave it willingly...........

I am sure the "perp" will be caught.......but remember the Dangol family in your prayers......What a tragedy.......and so senseless.......

SECURITY..........WHAT TO DO........

I assume that the lines at the airports are going to go "slow" after this latest terrorist attack and bags will be opened and checked with more frequency.........One thought I have which will speed up lines and not inhibit security is to establish a "express line"............

The express line would be available to people who are willing to "travel light"......i.e. no bags, no belts, no liquids.........A certain percentage of people fly to second homes etc. and they have everything available to them at those locations.........I do not have all the specifics in my head, however a plan can be developed........additionally, A new market can be developed for smaller quantity items that can be purchased at destinations........The incentives to use the express could be in the form of financial award , arriving at the terminal shortly before flights ( no wait) and what ever else the "brains can think up".....

One other matter which I will DISCUSS LATER is that this new combatant should be under the control of the CIA and tried by a Military Tribunal.......It is obvious by his actions and his own Father that he was involved in a form of War against the USA and was ready, willing, and almost able to take lives with some substance which he probably got from an organization "at war" with us.

CHRISTMAS DAY......CONTINUED.......COMEBACK STORY

A great story for today is connected to prior "Thoughts"...........

On Christmas.......The thought of GOD sending His Son to Earth to be born......for us is a miracle that sometimes is hard to grasp and "wrap your head around"..........

However, Dick Gardner and his miraculous struggle and recovery to this point is only "unbelievable"............

My sources have told me that he is on the East Coast of Florida this evening with his Wife, Jane

and close friends.......He is now eating and starting to gain his strength back...........

This is the COMEBACK STORY OF 2009.............Continue to Pray for him

and to Dickie ........and Jane enjoy yourself.....You deserve it !!!!!

RELAX........AND..........ENJOY

The "hustle " to get everything done is over.........Now enjoy..........for myself and Lisa we are off on an 8am flight to see "Sweet Lou"in Naples.......I have some "thoughts for you and will get back to you.........The family Christmas Eve Party was a blast.......The "little ones" are taking over.........Talk to you soon......

CHRISTMAS GIVING.............HEROES

Wednesday night was one of those great evenings I will remember for a long time.......I was surrounded by friends from St.Pius and family members who gave their time to serve a meal at My Brother's Table when they could have been elsewhere "living the party life" at any number of festive gatherings around the area on the day before Christmas Eve........

Approximately 290 guests were treated to a nutritious meal...............

I was impressed by the youngest volunteers who worked the cafeteria line with efficiency and in a friendly manner...........Shawn Rowe and Jenna Ring on the deserts along with Jamie Ring and her Mother Kara on the Bread patrol........Other volunteers included Donna Calder along with her Mother, Isaura and Daughter,Kristen of NSCC working the main course. Veteran Volunteers Shannon Gardner and Mike Rosetti along with Kerri Rowe were doing their "thing"....

Remember this goes on each and every day........lunch and dinner.........and summer is a time when their is a great need for heroes ........not just the Holiday Season.......

Bill and Diane Reilly delivered meals to the disabled..........and the list w

ent on.........Heroes All...........

MERRY CHRISTMAS........................

CHRISTMAS........ GIGI........AND RYAN

You can find the origin of this story on the Nanepashemet Blog........but I am thrilled to spread the "good news". Ryan Nestor of Marblehead , Son of John & Joanne Nestor is confined at what has been " coined " as Fresh Ayer (Ft Devens).I have been allowed to visit him and knowing him since his early days.......I tend to "kick in with my parental instincts"when we talk.........

I am proud of the way he has handled himself......instead of sitting around feeling " sorry for himself"He has kept active by "working out" and using his other times to read and accept work details. His first assignment was working the " night shift" in the boiler room.......and it appears that he has now landed his "dream assignment.

He apparently is going to be taught how to train dogs to become the " friend and support " needed for disabled persons............What a story ........He is truly excited about this opportunity....

Ryan has met his first "trainee" a yellow lab named Gigi...............and now....

Ryan is going to be able to do something worthwhile.......and help change lives.......

LIFE IS WHAT YOU MAKE IT.......................

I know family and friends miss Ryan as he does them this Christmas Season........but he and Gigi have got things to do....

A CHRISTMAS TO REMEMBER.................

ATHEISTS..........AT CHRISTMAS.....A LOT OF QUESTIONS

On the O'Reilly Factor tonight (FOX)one of the guests was the head of the largest atheist group in the United States( FFRF).In response to a question from the Moderator ,Laura Ingram, she stated that their were 14,000 members and even though that was not a "great amount "......it was actually" quality over quanity".........

They have posted various billboards around the Country, and I assume their purpose is to make us aware that their is "no god " although I'm not sure........They can spend their money and bring forth their opinions.....As I have said before..... the 1st Amendment works but it is not "very pretty ".........however......

The thought while listening to her was not so much about what she was saying......but rather what her state of mind is........

If you have no hope of an afterlife.......no hope of salvation.......no reason for a purpose in your life......What do you have ?.........and why would you try to destroy the" Hope of Humanity"......Could it be because the position in the group is "money driven" and bringing this up during a"Holy Season" for the Christian & Jewish Faiths will give its purpose publicity.....Nah !!!! their doing it because it is "right".......wait....... who tells them what is right ?

or why do they care if they are right ? Somehow I "keep smelling money"........

Well each to their own.........I will say a prayer for them anyways.......Remember the old WWII saying........."Their are no atheists in foxholes"....................

BOSTON YACHT CLUB.......ST.NICHOLAS BALL....

The Annual St. Nicholas Ball was held last evening with 100% of the proceeds given to My Brother's Table............The money driven festivities included a silent and public auction which produced some surprises............A Rockstar fitness Membership was a hot item along with a Swiss Air trip to Europe, tickets to the Lion King ,Bruins, Red Sox and other great items offered by the business community of Marblehead.

A large ovation is due Mary Boucher and her "crew"that put this event together. Oysters, Scallops wrapped in bacon , Thin Sirloin , Music by DJ Lanie Mac and the " beauty of the BYC all added to this perfect evening on the water ...........

It was great to have "quality time with My Daughter, Melissa Sherwood & her Husband, Norm Sherwood.....who certainly know the " lay of the land" in "Old Town"............John Nestor of Nanepashemet fame and "headhunter" Maria Rowen(right) were " on target "........ and gave their varied thoughts on many subjects........My opinion is do not leave the room when they get going........You are then left

"unprotected"........everyone is "free game"........Maria had an innovative way of getting her "items of choice"in the silent auction......namely stake out the table.......and give the "don't you dare look ".......to any potential threat.........It takes time but was effective.......She needed help carrying all her" loot" to the getaway car............

Also seen in the crowd,"Liquor tycoon " Cliff Ansara whose bid in the public auction landed him an evening's use of the Hooper Mansion.........Hope I get an invite to that shindig........... Header Bruce Durkee of the"Marshmallow Fluff " family was the Auctioneer......and he kept the "spirited group"bidding and "upping" the ante..........

It was a great way to raise cash for " The Table".......and have a night to remember...

Thank you all !.....and to all many great nights............

SNOOKIE......MTV..........JERSEY SHORE

I know I am "aged out" when it comes to the "hit" reality show on MTV which features Snookie and her friends from the "Jersey Shores.I do not know many specifics except drinking,sexual innuendo and at least one "sucker punch " to Snookie by a guy who probably didn't like her " attitude" or "words" while at a bar is a big hit on YOU TUBE.........

Following up on "role models" for our youth this particular
program is disgusting and of no redeeming value ..............

Jay Leno had Snookie and a few of her "cast members" on and Leno had a" game show" spoof.......except that the questions and answers were real.........

She was shown a picture of VP Joe Biden......and asked the question ......who is he ?........She had no idea...........

The next picture was of former VP Dick Cheney.......She did answer correctly his name to the above question.......but she "flinched" to the next question by Jay which was .....what does he do ?..........She answered that" She was not really sure but she thinks he might have shot Bush". That is wonderful..........

How many children are being influenced by this program and its characters.........I am uncertain except that it is my opinion that many more than "them" do not watch this "MTV GARBAGE".......at least I hope so.......... The First Amendment works, but it is not pretty..........

DO WE WONDER WHY SO MANY OF OUR CHILDREN ARE MISGUIDED,CONFUSED AND HAVE NO CONCEPT OF RIGHT OR WRONG ?

CHRISTMAS...........AND DRUGS...

It is the Christmas Season and the time for giving..........and if you have the urge to " do something". worthwhile........consider the LAURA FUND..........This is a memorial fund created by Frances(right) and Fred Speranza of Swampscott in honor of their Daughter,Laura Speranza..........

Fran and Fred faced a difficult passage,and instead of letting it tear them down.......they did just the opposite and created a fund that will continue for years by helping young people escape the torment and insidious results of drug use.............Nicer "folks" you cannot find..........They are a "little"liberal but even "those people "get it right.............sometimes.........

Money derived from the "fund " is given to Project Cope in Lynn, the Salvation Army's Woman Recovery Program,D.A.R.E., Recovery High School in Beverly,Journey's of Hope,Salem, Communities that Care in Lynn........along with a growing list.........

DONATIONS MAY BE SENT TO THE FOLLOWING......≥. LAURA SPERANZA MEMORIAL FUND EASTERN BANK, SWAMPSCOTT, MA.

HUGH HEFNER.........PHILOSOPHER.......

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IRAN FLEXING "MUSCLES"......

The timing of "events " on the world stage can be fascinating......On one hand you have the President searching for 60 votes to get a Health Bill passed in any form possible .....with the idea that once it is "law"you can "tinker "with it down the road.....Remember whoever sets the agenda usually controls the issue......and in this case the Public is being told the only chance for "reform"is now or it is ever lost............"Hogwash "............

Then we have Iran firing a missile that can carry weapons 1200 miles........well within the reach of Israel that their leader has said "He wants to wipe off the face of the earth"......Was the timing of this launch due to the knowledge by Iran that Washington is preoccupied with its "in fighting " or some other reason ? We usually find out years later when someone writes a book after it has all "played " out........Missiles , Nuclear Warheads and Iran.........Sounds like one big" Molotov Cocktail" which cannot be for any good on this world stage.

Health reform is necessary in some form, but is complicated and need not be rushed........whereas the people of Israel need our support and attention during this very dangerous time........TIMING IS EVERYTHING.......as" they" say................

9/11......MARTYR

I received the following attachment and if it is a" hoax"........I apologize........ for publishing ........If factual I hope the people of Houston,Texas do the " right thing " and make the Mall's Christmas Season Shopping less than expected............

If you have trouble reading it.......It says the Mall was to be closed on 9/11/2009 due to the Martyrdom of Imam Ali (A.S.)..........One of the Hijackers...........

WILLIAM KELLEY.....

" THOUGHT'S " back on 9/30/09 told you about my "boyhood friend" that is acclaimed by the

"Art Community " as a " Superstar ".............He has returned to the United States from Florence, Italy and has thanked me for the above story...........He has sent me a sampling of his work.......That's the "Irish Rogue " himself next to the rendering.....

If you " fall in love " with his creation get in touch with me and I will get you a "special deal " and probably a "little something " for myself in the form of a "finders fee "...........

Get out there on this bright Sunday and enjoy the " Christmas Season ".........

PRESIDENT OBAMA........

The Acceptance Speech given by Barack Obama in his receipt of the Nobel Peace Prize was both "PRESIDENTIAL" humble and convincing. You have to " give him his due ".............

He was speaking in philosophical terms, and we know that the " devil is always in the details ", however he did not make excuses or blame the prior administration for military actions in the Mideast.............

He spoke of the " justification of war " and acknowledged that "their is evil in the world ".......................along with the observation that a " non violent movement " would not have stopped Hitler or Al Queda...........We waited awhile but he finally said it.........

Further he named prior recipients of the " Peace Prize " who were more deserving...........

It is "heartening " to have him being the President rather than a candidate for some position in the " world order".............

Think of the " POSSIBILITIES " of this new "thought process

by Our President.......

MICHELLE MALKIN.....VS ..........GLSEN

The group ....Gay,lesbian, and Straight Education Network (GLSEN) was founded to prevent students from being harmed due to "sexual orientation "............The name of the organization and its "purpose " seem reasonable and it has further credibility since it was created by Kevin Jennings who is the US Department of Education Safe Education CZAR........appointed by the

Obama Administration...........What could be the problem and why is Columnist and Author Michelle Malkin so upset ?

IF YOU HAVE YOUNG CHILDREN IN SCHOOL SEE IF THEY ARE SUBJECTED TO THE READING LIST THAT HAS BEEN PROMULGATED BY THE " SAFE SCHOOL CZAR "

The issue is whether the reading list helps prevent "harm " due to sexual orientation " or is merely a cover to promote sexual orientation at an early age.The charges by Malkin are very disturbing........and if true Mr. Jennings should be "fired. On her website she gives examples of his writings which talk of sexual activity at ages 5-6, support of an individual in NAMBA( MAN BOY ASSOC.) and the opinion that school curricula discriminates against homosexuality.....How about " Gay Bar Guides for Teens".........I know where I am on this how about you ..........

You need to make your own decision..........but take the time ........

I have found Michelle Malkin to be a person to read due to her common sense and " investigative skills " among other things........

COAKLEY........BROWN........THAT'S NO HUFF AND PUFFING...

It is now official........The new US SENATOR from Massachusetts is going to be either Martha Coakley (D) or Scott Brown ( R).........Mega Money was spent by the candidates to get us to this point..........Steve Pagliuca especially since he spent his own money to get 12% of the vote on the Democratic side........Just think of all the good that "moo la " could have done.......Probably a little unfair since he seems like a "good guy " and more than likely donates his fair share.......

Concerning Scott Brown........Did you notice when he was making his acceptance speech he had his "American Idol" and BC basketball Player Daughter on stage with him ..........and no Wife.......

It appears that Wife , Gail Huff is unable to make public appearances with him due to a restriction imposed by her employer, Channel 5 TV News.......She has been a free lance reporter for the Station since 1993............I am sure we will hear something about that down the road along with the "rekindling " of the Magazine Cover of Brown in the " near buff " from his "modeling days "..........

EAST WAKEFIELD,NH............AK-47 AND GLOCKS

The China Lion Restaurant on Market Street,Lynn,Ma. is your typical " Chinese Restaurant " and over many years has had the reputation of " good place to get takeout "..........I don't know what law enforcement would say, but it did not seem to be a dangerous venue ...........although I am not around at 1:00 am in the evening..........anyways......

What happens........The guy (right) comes in and is refused a drink because the bartender thinks he is drunk..........He is escorted out of the building........He goes to his car and gets a AK-47 and a Glock........He comes back in and "starts shooting"...........He claims he was denied a drink because he is "white"............Thank God no one was hit..........

The "casualty " again is the City of Lynn which receives more bad " publicity " ....................even though the vast majority of its people are proud ,hard working, and law abiding. Most of us live in safe neighborhoods and are happy to call Lynn our home........

The "disgruntled "customer comes to " our City" from East Wakefield,NH with his weapons and brings "terror " and "inebriation".........I hope his punishment makes him think "twice" before bringing his problems this way again...............Today's Item is reporting that he was originally was from the City.......and he is suicidal and was hoping a police officer would shoot him...............Sounds like "insanity " to me........

THOUGHT'S FOR WEEKEND........

Sarah Palin had the funniest line for the weekend..........If She had won the VP election instead of Joe Biden.........He would be hocking his Book " GOING ROGAINE "instead of her doing the same for "GOING ROGUE"..........

December is the Month when the NFL TEAMS start to separate and in this case the Colt's and Saint's roll and our Patriot's lose three of the last four..............

The "World Conference" in Copenhagen that was dealing with "Global Warning" and the " fishy" emails......had 1200 limousines and 140 private planes available for the use of attendees according to Drudge.Com.........

Both the Globe and Herald ran the disturbing story that charitable institutions that use "professional telemarketers " receive 41 % of the funds collected on average and in some cases only....................2-5%........

I have been involved with St. Jude Hospital and My Brother's Table, Lynn and the percentage of the donations that go directly to these groups has been in the high 80-90%..........by their personal approach and not paying " mercenaries "..........

Be Charitable........but be careful.......Check your "list twice" this Christmas Season ........and know where your gifts are going.............

TIGER.........TALK ABOUT TAKING THE HEAT........

Tiger in his "world" must be taking the heat........I told you he would not have any other

statement unless his sponsors required it...........I did not know about the "girlfriends" who have all" lawyered up" along with his Wife who had demands " out in the open " before the names of the "Mistresses" were divulged............that is heat........

I "eavesdropped" this morning and I heard a female say....."What's the big deal.......he is just doing what guys do..........When they get "money and power "...........they use women.....and so called "equal rights" go out the window....... "

Probably true........until those" damn lawyers " show up..........Remember the Seinfield & Elaine line where they talked about getting back together and Jerry said, "Why can't we do a little of this and a little of that........What's the big deal ?........ ASK TIGER............

GLOBAL WARNING.....WHO IS GOING TO FEEL THE HEAT ?

It was 65 degrees in Boston today..........and it gave me thoughts of the pending " gloom" of global warning and the dire results predicted for mankind unless we get our act together......and then a story "pops " that is being called a possible......".CLIMATE GATE"

Barbara Boxer (D) Ca. at a Senate committee meeting appeared to be more concerned about "criminal hacking " of emails than the " whistle blower " content in the emails..........

Let me explain.......It appears that at an international meeting in Copenhagen .......emails surfaced which demonstrate that scientists had manipulated data which made " global warming" less threatening than " previously advertised"........... The emails were obtained from Britain's University East Anglia's Research Unit without permission........

We should follow the "Golden Rule " concerning the criminal acts of " hacking".........but now that the the issue of the earth heating up and "scorching" or "drowning" mankind is being questioned on the basis of this alleged manipulation of data........I think we should get on it Pretty soon..............

It is early and it may turn out to be a " hoax "..........in any event Al Gore will probably straighten it out or at least have a "reasonable explanation"........ don't worry............be happy...............

ABORTION DEBATE......READY OR NOT....

The Health Bill debate is " heating " up and the issue of abortion and whether public funding should be included is the main focus............

I am of the opinion that the Child (fetus ) is the innocent, defenseless being in this matter and every other human being involved in the conception of the Child has in most cases acted of their own free will.........and have made decisions that have created an end result that they are not happy with when it comes to wanting the abortion.........I understand their are exceptions........

However.......What are reasonable persons to do in this argument..........

My humble opinion is that the Child should be protected.......and in this case public funds should not be part of this legislation..........The unfettered right to abortion under the guise of " woman's rights" is the "waving of the white flag" in the eternal battle of right and wrong........

We are all sinners and not " perfect"..........but we... the adults have to set ourselves as examples

and try to overcome our failings to the best of our abilities.............

Senatorial "hopeful" Capuano said a bill without the public funding " will send poor women into the back alleys again "I assume that he means this is forever........This is a scare tactic relying upon our believing that all is hopeless.........and their is no hope for the human race.....

We need to give women more support( not lip service) at crossroads of "their" life.........the support of friends , family, and organizations working in concert to make a "change of heart " and creating a majority with a "heart that sees".......would foster real " woman's rights". .......and someday make us " collectively " much better....... as a Nation and Individually......

The battle against evil is not easy............but how can we be against ........Life

TIGER .......ACT OF CONTRITION..........

I read " Tiger " Woods statement and I have the following observations;

1. He said he was embarrassed...........

2. He is not perfect..........

3.He would like to keep it a family matter even though he knows people are curious......

This afternoon he added that he was taking some time away from golf.

This appears to be an act of contrition and he stated he would prevent

it from happening in the future .........end of story.......

If he says anything else I would assume it would be due to "pressure " from his sponsors......

Even public figures have a right to privacy about matters that do not concern others......

THANKSGIVING WEEKEND THOUGHTS..........

So what's the story with the "squeaky clean" Tiger Woods.......He hit a fire hydrant and a tree outside his home and was rescued by his wife knocking out the back window of the car.......I assume she used a golf club...........By the way..........It happened at 2:25 am.........Maybe he was going to get in line for " Black Friday " shopping at Walmart, Target and Dick's Sporting Goods for new Clubs or golf shoes.............seriously I hope all is well on the home front.......He has been a class act....

Talking about " Black Friday " I don't get this waiting in line all night to shop except that.......The power of suggestion created by advertising is very powerful.............have you noticed the so called " pest power "created by retailers in which the advertising on TV children's program creates the marketing wants of the " little ones" who in turn drive the Parents.....sometimes to stand in the above lines.....in order to create the demand for "this years "hot item........The economy does not appear to effect this willingness to give the "kids "whatever they "desire "........We all fall into the "trap".........Maybe even "Tiger ".......

Have a nice Saturday........and don't get run over by the crowd at the Mall.......I will try to be courteous if you will also............

DIRTY ADAM......

Adam Lambert of American Idol fame is trying to make a "name" for himself,and he has decided how to do it...........use the lure of sex and " dirty moves "........He did this Sunday night........ on the American Music Awards which was live,prime time..........and available for every living teenager in the Country.......

I know that this does not " shock" people any more.........but it is not a good thing.........

Just my "THOUGHT "

CAPUANO AND COAKLEY......PILE ON......

It is my understanding that Senatorial hopefuls Capuano and Coakley who a few weeks ago were having a "spat " over who was the strongest and most trustworthy supporter of abortions..........are now trying to outdo each other over who disagrees with the Church THE MOST............WHILE SAYING INDIVIDUALLY THEY ARE BOTH CATHOLIC........ WHY ?

I have told you before "following polls" do not necessarily allow politicians to use common sense

and follow reason............and at the same time be politically correct..........

They should listen to the" experience" on their staffs and get on to the issues that are

going to effect the American Public into the distant future........and leave the running of the Church to the Bishops........Senators have enough on their "plate".......and as far as I know we still have Separation of "Church and State"..............I do not think the new administration has changed that yet..........unless it is in Senator Reid's 2,074 pg. Health Proposal.......

God Bless us all.........Catholic or not...........

PATRICK KENNEDY NEEDS ADULT SUPERVISION....

There are various Catholic politicians who have voted pro choice,but have avoided " open war of words " with Bishops and the Church in general........

Congressman Kennedy has seen fit to take his differences with Bishop Tobin to a new level by writing to the Providence Journal about the private "pastoral advise "given to Kennedy concerning his spiritual life ............

I do not know the Congressman's plan or his objective in this maneuver..........but my Thought

this morning is........He needs mature adult advise.......and if his Father" Ted" was around the issues may have existed but this battle would not be public in its present form........

I hope someone comes to his rescue......

FEEL GOOD.....STORY FOR SUNDAY NIGHT

"Co joined "two year old sisters from Australia had surgery to separate one from the other, and the 16 physicians who conducted the operation........related that due to its complexity that success would make the word " miracle" not STRONG ENOUGH......

On Thursday, TRISHNA awoke from her post operative coma and her weaker Sister KRISHNA

awoke on Saturday............The prognosis is "good " but guarded........

God Bless..........

SATURDAY NIGHT.......LIVE......HEALTH BILL....SICKNESS

A procedural vote had to be taken to allow debate on Sen. Harry Reid's Health Bill in the Senate.60 VOTES WERE NEEDED...............The vote was 60 -39 and accordingly Debate on the bill will press forward.......I am sure we will discuss the merits at a later date......

The 60 votes were not a given and one of the Senators on the "fence" was Mary Landrieu of Louisiana..............included in the bill was a provision for Medicaid subsidies ..........that was specific in that it would apply to States that.......had two criteria........

1. had been declared a major disaster area..........

2.had been declared " so" for the preceding seven years.....

Can you guess the answer as to which States qualified.......... "drumroll please".........

LOUISIANA...........COST...........100 MILLON " BUCKAROO'S ".....Oh...Senator Landrieu voted yes........

Everyone involved says" one has nothing to do with the other " OK WHAT EVER YOU SAY ....

Another night in Washington.........

SARAH P...........LOOKING GOOD......

I am of the opinion that Newsweek 's use of a photo (right) "lifted " from a story in Runner's World is sexist,however it does not hurt her and in fact is a "plus " since it points out............She is attractive and a runner who has made exercise part of her everyday routine.She demonstrates that we can be busy, productive, and live a healthy life style.....

She is a " role model " for the modern day Mother whether her critics except it or not...........

My "running partner " Brenda who can outrun Sarah and happens to be the Mother of Craig Lewin ( triathlete and swimming coach extraordinaire ) reminded me that Presidential Candidate Huckabee was featured and pictured in Runners World......... however "his gams" never showed up on a Newsweek Cover..............actually who would want to see them is my thought...........

It appears that the "pick on Sarah " strategy is not working...........and they may be better if they ignore her..........but she keeps "reloading " to quote Her Father........

Drude is reporting that Her appearance this week on Oprah drew the largest audience in years..........

KENNEDY PREVAILS BY 30 AT 3:33PM......

Judith Flanagan Kennedy has officially won the recount over "Chip " Clancy by 30 votes and his Attorney has acknowledged that their will not be any further appeals or legal proceedings in this matter.

It is sad for me personally to see the end of the Clancy tenure since I have always considered him a friend and a person who had to make tough decisions in very difficult times...........He was a "hands on" administrator whose interest was " the common good " for the citizens of Lynn.......

I have known Judy Flanagan Kennedy and her family for years and have sat on the Board of Directors at My Brother's Table with her.......I have found her to be of " kind heart " and always willing to help the poor and underprivileged along with her Husband and Children.....The "Kennedy " family is part of the "fabric"of this City as well as the "Clancy's"........

It now falls into the hands of the Mayor-Elect to reach out to the Clancy supporters and "mend fences "so a strong majority can work together to keep Lynn safe , fiscally strong, along with having schools that make us proud and are centers of learning for the children that are looking forward to a future of "pride and productivity " for good..........

BOSTON GLOBE ..HOUSE HAS DEAF EARS TO EDUCATION PROPOSAL.....

Is their any wonder that the Education proposal discussed in yesterday's "THOUGHT'S " fell on deaf ears in the House ?

They were listening to Gov. Patrick.......

I understand that strange things happen in the back rooms of the State House and deals are made and unmade........however Gov. Patrick seems to be unfocused and disorganized in his approach to government workings' on the hill......and does not make anything happen......not even close....Republican Governor's were more effective in dealing with the Democratic House

I noticed yesterday's Education proposal which has some merit in part is "lumped in" with MV licenses for Immigrants which is far reaching with long range security implications in the"War on Terror" and basically has nothing to do with children and education. It appears that the Governor was merely grabbing headlines and was not serious on the last day of the Legislative Session......A joint committee got a version of the legislation passed in the Senate yesterday.....and it is my opinion that the lack of leadership as discussed above.......left it in "limbo" for another time and day.

Stop the rhetoric and raising false hopes........is my Thought for the Day........

DEVAL PATRICK......PROBABLE SURPRISE SUPPORT......

I understand that Gov. Deval Patrick is going to unveil a plan allowing immigrants which I assume are illegal aliens to pay tuition and attend State Colleges.........It will be a revisit of a issue that was defeated approximately 3 yrs. ago by the Legislature.

I normally do not see " eye to eye" with his agenda and in fact do not understand" were he is going or where he came from "..............when it comes to the direction he is leading the Commonwealth........however.......

It appears that I will support his plan concerning the above tuition plan.........for two reasons :

1. Social Justice.....We have the means and ability as a "Commonwealth ", and it is the right thing to do ! ! Why do I say that ? hear me out on my # 2 reason......

2.I had the opportunity to teach a criminology course for a semester at North Shore CC a while ago from 6:30-9:30 pm each week and I had over 30 students in the class........my guess is that some had dubious citizen credentials (I am not sure...just a possibility).....however the point is that the large majority of the students were industrious, smart, prepared and a pleasure to be involved with....

They could have been at home or " out with friends"........but instead they opted to be in a classroom.......Any young person who has the "drive and determination " of that class deserves a chance......

NO ONE PICKS THEIR BACKGROUND OR ECONOMIC STATUS........ LET'S GIVE THEM AN OPPORTUNITY.......THIS IS HOW GREAT STORIES COME TO LIFE....

Once you have meet them and felt their " hopes and dreams"........You want to assist and keep them out of" harms way"........

WE ARE AT WAR......BUT WHEN IS A PERSON A " POW "

During the Presidential Campaign we heard how bad " Gitmo "was and how it was going to be closed........A year later it is still open.....It seems the President has had trouble keeping his promise to close the facility......since nobody really wants the " captives in their neighborhood "

One of the prisoners(POW ?) is Khalid Sheik Mohammad ( to the right are his before(tshirt )and after( beard ) Gitmo pictures ..........It looks like his captivity has agreed with him........What do you think ?

The Administration has ordered that he be tried in a New York City Federal Court as an ordinary criminal and not by a military tribunal as a prisoner of war (POW)............

The problem is that he is being granted all the rights affordable to defendants and therefore he and his lawyers will have a platform to defend his actions concerning 9/11.......and in my opinion make the trial a forum that will create a world stage for " extremists " along with security and additional trauma to the inhabitants of Manhattan.....who certainly have had enough of this " World Drama ".......Wonder if he will miss " Gitmo" while awaiting trial in a normal prison........

ANOTHER ONE OF THE GOOD GUYS......RIP

Gerry Titus retired Nahant Police Officer passed away this week......He served the Town for 32 years.He will be missed by his Wife, Ruthie ( Ward ) Titus and their Children , Christine and Lainey..............

He was a good athlete " in his day " and a "die hard" fan of Boston Sport Teams.I found him to be a very funny guy with a dry sense that would leave you a humorous thought that would linger and give laughs more than once......His name always left a smile.......

He was also a " stand up guy "who used common sense and tried to do the right thing.A trait that is missing many times in our automated and fast moving world........

RIP.....Jerry....God Bless.............

DICKIE GARDNER FANS......LISTEN UP.....

A reliable source has told me that he had 3 oz's of Steak the other night and all systems are "go"...........Can you imagine that after more than a year on a liquid diet......I understand that he has been driving his truck.........and gaining more independence each day........

Keep him in your prayers........He still has away to get there.........What a guy......What a story.....

UMASS.......NAME THE PROF'S WHO INVITED R.L.LEVASSEUR

I reviewed the UMASS,AMHERST website and I noticed that the administration issued a statement opposing the talk by Raymond Luc Levasseur, stating that a group of professors

invited him ,but did not name them individually or as a group.

I think it is appropriate to publish this information so that the Widow of the

slain NJ Trooper (Thought's 11/6/09 ),The Police organizations protesting the talk, and parents who have students that are basically captured in their classrooms know who they are.........

Changing the subject slightly.........and more appropriately for this day......Do you think any of the above prof's are veterans or know what day it is........

One other disturbing fact........One of the Boston News Stations asked Students about the speech and they only found one Student who knew what they were talking about......and that Student

was for it.....

GIORDANO BRUNO........NO CHANCE FOR A RETRIAL....

I understand that Giordano Bruno(right) had the idea back in 1600 or so that their was life in the galaxies or the stars (I am not sure what their lingo was back in those days)...........

Swing forward to our present day.........and the Vatican has held a meeting of leading astronomers and experts to discuss and explore the possibility of E.T. Aliens and the philosophical and theological issues that could develop.........Seems logical to me.........

Poor Giordano Bruno, however, was tried for his "heresy of the stars " and executed for his curiosities...........This does not seem logical..........

Power in the control of " human nature " can be scary.............on this Earth.....History is full of it.

MAYBE " ET" IS MORE ADVANCED THAN US .............THINK OF ALL THE POSSIBILITIES INTO THE FUTURE.......

REMEMBER....DON'T JUDGE BOOK BY ITS COVER.......

A 5' 2'' former waitress was standing around waiting for her car to be serviced.......when she heard a commotion........She investigated and saw a man with a gun chasing another man while shooting at him......She fired at the gunman and missed the first shot...........He stopped...turned and a gunfight ensued........Both were wounded.......but the former waitress won in the sense that she stopped the senseless killings at 13 with 30 wounded. Reports say she was wounded in both thighs and wrist.

The "big bad Doctor "Hasan(not Smith as some wish) who allegedly master minded this Fort Hood,Texas shootout was taken off a ventilator after being listed as critical and probably will live to be given the opportunity to defend his actions......witnesses reported that he yelled " ALLAH AKBAR" Arabic for" God is Great" which has been commonly used by suicide bombers in the past..........

Well.....All I can say is "Thank God " Sgt.Munley 's squad car needed an oil change.............

ANONYMOUS COMMENTS.....

Anonymous comments are always welcome,and in fact are encouraged on "Thought 's "........however when you ask me a personal question about a person who has been a subject on this site and it appears that the request is of a derogatory nature or otherwise not tasteful., and not directed at the issues being discussed.....It will not be published AT MY DISCRETION.........I received one such request yesterday......and as such it will not be published.......In this case I suggest that the anonymous writer go and "look into the eyes of the persons he mentioned" and ask them the same question.....

HEY.......GOLD DIGGERS.......YOUR THOUGHT FOR A DAY....

While browsing the news I came upon this picture ( right).............

This is for all the "Gold Diggers " out there..........meet the real live diamond diggers from

Marange , Zimbabwe.............Does this take a "little of the glitter "off your stones ?

Maybe not........but think about it for awhile............

My thought for today......a "heart that sees "

HOW TO FIT 45......INTO 18......

A convicted terrorist is given a 45 year sentence and in 2004 and after serving 18 years is released .........

I guess he followed the rules in prison.......and proved himself to be a " good guy "and not a threat to the general public...........So what does he do now ?

Before we answer that let's talk about what he did to get himself in the " big house"

He was a member of the group.....United Freedom Front which today would merely be classified as a " gang" no better or worse than the inner city gangs that wander our cities without regard for the "common good"........whose only objective is to control the "turf " according to their way of life and well being.

GANG UFF and Raymond Luc Levasseur were involved in 20 bombings and the attempted murder of two Mass State Troopers back in 1982 according to reports........along with the killing of New Jersey Trooper Phil Lamonaco. One of the above bombings was at the Suffolk Superior Court House (right).I was scheduled to represent a person on trial that day and my memory is that he was ecstatic when we couldn't get in that day to face the wheels of justice.........

Swing forward to the present........."Ray Luc" was scheduled to give a speech at UMASS to have "meaningful exchange " with the students.........It was canceled after the State Police and the Widow of the slain New Jersey Officer complained and promised to "go public" and embarrass Gov. Patrick.........

Free speech is an American way of life,however, I do not believe a tax funded State University should allow a forum to give this person some type of credibility or faint reason why he and that group could commit mayhem, murder, and terror.............He can say and think what he wants,but not under the auspices of the State that he saw fit to destroy if he had been able....

20 YEARS FROM TODAY WILL THE FORT HOOD SHOOTER HASAN AND THE ALLEGED MALL TERRORIST TEREK MEHANNA BE ALLOWED TO" SPIN " THEIR LIFE STORY AT UMASS OR OTHER STATE UNIVERSITIES..............................AND JUSTIFY PLOTS TO KILL MALL SHOPPERS ......AND YOUNG SOLDIERS SITTING IN A WAITING ROOM ?

WOW.......LIKE THE OLD DAYS....27 VOTES

I grew up around politics and the first Tuesday in November was always an exciting time locally.I was born in Malden and My Father, and Uncles always had the "family favorite'. The counting was always by "hand" and went through the night and sometimes beyond........

The campaigns were contentious and sometimes just "down right mean "........I was always surprised as a "kid"that the candidates some how seemed to "bury the hatchet" and were able to stand each other into the future......how about Bill Clinton and George Bush ,Senior on the National level who have joined together and raised millions of dollars together for great causes.......Do you remember George Bush, Senior's LINE IN HIS DISCUSSION OF POLITICS;

"Keep your friends close,but your enemies even closer."...............

As I write this....The Lynn Item is reporting the following headline,

KENNEDY WINS CORNER OFFICE BY RAW VOTE COUNT................27 VOTES

I assume that the vote totals may be challenged....and no matter what the result that their will be some "hard feelings"........but most of the people involved in this political battle are of " a good heart " and will continue to work for the people of Lynn and the well being and stability of the City in these trying economic times......

SOMETIMES THEIR DOES NOT SEEM TO BE ANSWERS....

A man who has bipolar disorder, but by all accounts was otherwise a devoted Husband and Father to four children is shot and dies due to his unexplained attack on a Doctor with a knife.He is shot by an off duty Special Police Officer who is being called a hero by most......

The family has the funeral and prays for the well being of the Doctor who has still been unable to communicate days after the attack......The alleged attacker was a former Star High School Athlete, Graduate of Salem State and presently pursuing a Master's Degree at Endicott College according to news accounts. His Wife said he was outstanding in every regard.........His family( right) leaves Church distraught and without answers.........What am I missing.....So sad.......for all involved....

Then Halloween night during "trick or treat " time a ten year old is crushed by a falling tree........just by being at the wrong place at the wrong time......

So much agony ........... so many people who are affected by these events........Collateral Damage to "innocents"

We read the above stories, put it out of our minds and go back to our lives ...........while to the people in the story it is their life ..........

Pray that they survive the trauma they face ..........and can move on to "Peace in their Hearts "

Once again be Thankful for all the gifts in your life and do not" sweat the small stuff " tomorrow.............. which to some is the dreaded " Blue Monday"..............

TWO MADONNA'S AND ......A 2 FT PUMPKIN......

I had the pleasure of being in Marblehead last night with two Madonna's ( no singing thank you) and a two foot Pumpkin ..........not your average social event.The weather cooperated by being balmy and a little windy..........It was a fun time.......

I realize that you have to "savor these moments"since time is fleeting and they are teenagers before you know it .............. then they have more important things to do than hang with the "old folks".........A passage of time that is "just what it is ".....We have all been there........

THRILLER .........HALLOWEEN......1959

In the "old days"like the year 1959....College Football was more popular than the NFL . One of tomorrow evening 's Halloween festivities center points is the "Thriller" Video of the late Michael Jackson.......

While browsing through sports stories I was reminded of a football player that was a favorite of mine in "days gone by" who created his own "thriller "video 50 years ago which was also Halloween.

Billy Cannon now 72 years old made a spectacular "tackle breaking" 89 yard run that evening for the LSU Tigers that defeated the NO.3 University of Mississippi 7-3 .Cannon won the Heisman Trophy that year which most of you know signifies the "Best College Player".........

He will be in the LSU Stadium tomorrow night and the video of his touchdown run will be shown on a large screen to a partisan Tiger crowd....not many people get an opportunity to see an accomplishment many years later in a setting like this ......such as will be the

case for Mr. Cannon......

You probably can find it on YOU TUBE, and speaking of that...... people do get accomplishments and "whatevers"shown by video today.....50 years ago that was unheard of and now is commonplace and in some cases not flattering........It is a new day that is sometimes "scary"

BOO !!! HAPPY HALLOWEEN ........