There are a few women in my life who mean the world to me. They have taught me great values and showed me love and honesty. There are women in the world who standout to me and make me proud as a human being and as American for what they have accomplished and stood for.
Most of you have never met my mother, she is a great lady. My mom is Charlene Robinson, and she is one tough cookie, but while being tough she is also my rock. When I have needed to cry, she was there for me. When I needed to laugh, she found a way. She can tell from the first two or three words on the phone whether I have a smile on my face or am sad. She knows me through and through and has taught me about love and about kindness and about determination
My grandmother, my soul mate, the rock of rocks, was a formidable woman. This takes nothing from my mother, but my grandmother was my love and my heart. I am tearing up right now thinking about her, remembering her. She taught me about trusting people and giving people the benefit of the doubt. She taught me not to judge people. I love my grandmother so much and miss her so deeply.
(((Gnita)))
My San Antonio mom, my Chacho’s mom, and the mom to many of us here who don’t have our moms close. Let me tell you about Gnita, she is stern and loving at the same time. She will make us laugh and she will share a tear when we need it. She will snap at us when we are wrong, and congratulate us when we succeed. Gnita has 3 children, we call them the biologicals, but she has many kids. The thing I love most about her is that she doesn’t judge, and she loves all people. We recently got together at her house for her birthday, it was a surprise dinner, there were about 15-20 of us there. Before we ate we all stood holding hands to thank God for bringing her into our lives. I looked around and saw the most eclectic group of people. We had black and white, Hispanic and mixed folk. We had fat people, skinny people, gay people, straight people as well as young and old, and we were all there to celebrate this woman, this woman who could bring all these different people together. Tolerance, tolerance is the word. Love you mama.
Though I never got the opportunity to meet her, I have an abiding since of awe and wonder as it relates to Mother Theresa. I am not catholic and don’t know many of the practices or the saints, but I do know that she is a woman who should be canonized as soon as possible. Mother Theresa traveled the world in the name of God to minister to the poorest of the poor and the weakest of the weak. Even as she got older and unable to walk as easily, she did not stop. She loved all people and she gave of herself wholly to the human race. I hope I can match a tenth of her love of people.
Oprah Winfrey is just amazing, she is a force and the world knows it. She is a woman who started out with nothing and worked hard, hard, HARD, to accomplish goals she set for herself. She gives back continuously to all people, not just African Americans, but to everyone. What can you say about a woman that everyone knows and knows about her life? She is one of the women I give enormous respect and admiration to.
These are women who I use as guide and compass for my life and for my interactions with other people I meet. They all offer something special to me as a human being and as a man. That is why I am so glad to be able to add Gnita to the list of women who mean the world to me.
I give much love to all the women in the world how are standing tall and trying to find a way, keep hope alive, and keep trying hard.
Saturday, November 17, 2007
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Harry Turtledove World War Series
Let me tell you about Harry Turtledove and the World War series. Mr. Turtledove is a really good author. The series that I just recently finished reading left my mind spinning and left my creative juices flowing. HT, as I shall call him, is a master of history and at writing alternate history. That is he takes a specific event or time frame and changes a few facts and continues it along the same path.
To the eight books I have just finished reading. The first series is called the World War series and it takes place in 1942 during World War II. At the height of the German Empire spreading and the Allies not truly coming together, aliens invade. Now your first reaction is probably to laugh or scoff but don’t. HT tells a very intricate story, and you get the points of view of nearly every party fighting. You get the point of view of the Americans, Russians, Germans, English, Chinese, Jews and lastly of the aliens themselves.
Their invasion is based upon faulty surveillance though, not faulty but outdated information. The probe they sent to earth arrived in about the 11th century and showed images of humans riding horse back and carrying spears. On their own planet and the other two worlds they conquered life moved extremely slowly so they expected that to be the case for humans. The aliens were rather shocked and horrified to discover in just about 900 years we had advanced so far having; tanks, rotor planes, submarines and fighting a global war. Having expected an inferior technology less race of beings the conquest fleet left with only so much weaponry. Yet even with their lack of quantity of weapons their tanks are far superior, their planes have jet engines, and ultimately they have nuclear weapons.
Once the aliens revealed themselves and entered the fighting we humans had to learn to put our fights aside and join forces or face enslavement of all of humanity. So we see many unions of groups we would not have seen in real history to fight the aliens. One of the most intriguing aspects is how when the aliens arrive they are so repulsed by what the Nazi’s are doing to Jews that the Jews actually aid the aliens. Many of them saw this as their way to survive and as a way to get back at the Germans who the aliens also now loathed. But later the Jews realizing that they intended to enslave all of humanity turned on the aliens as well.
As we humans are good at doing we fight back and eventually steal, borrow, and barter for the alien technology and use what we adapt to fight back. There is fighting literally on almost every continent of the planet. The aliens could nuke the whole planet and solve a lot of problems but there is a colonization fleet that is 20 years behind and they want to find planet Tosev 3 (earth) intact, habitable, and the people subjugated. But to show their power they do unleash nukes on some cities; Berlin and Washington D.C. to be exact. But once we discover this technology we stand toe to toe and fight with nukes as well. Eventually the U.S., Germany, and Russia win their independence but the aliens get over half the planet and uneasily a peace is reached.
But the colonization fleet is still on its way and bringing millions more aliens to colonize earth.
To the eight books I have just finished reading. The first series is called the World War series and it takes place in 1942 during World War II. At the height of the German Empire spreading and the Allies not truly coming together, aliens invade. Now your first reaction is probably to laugh or scoff but don’t. HT tells a very intricate story, and you get the points of view of nearly every party fighting. You get the point of view of the Americans, Russians, Germans, English, Chinese, Jews and lastly of the aliens themselves.
Their invasion is based upon faulty surveillance though, not faulty but outdated information. The probe they sent to earth arrived in about the 11th century and showed images of humans riding horse back and carrying spears. On their own planet and the other two worlds they conquered life moved extremely slowly so they expected that to be the case for humans. The aliens were rather shocked and horrified to discover in just about 900 years we had advanced so far having; tanks, rotor planes, submarines and fighting a global war. Having expected an inferior technology less race of beings the conquest fleet left with only so much weaponry. Yet even with their lack of quantity of weapons their tanks are far superior, their planes have jet engines, and ultimately they have nuclear weapons.
Once the aliens revealed themselves and entered the fighting we humans had to learn to put our fights aside and join forces or face enslavement of all of humanity. So we see many unions of groups we would not have seen in real history to fight the aliens. One of the most intriguing aspects is how when the aliens arrive they are so repulsed by what the Nazi’s are doing to Jews that the Jews actually aid the aliens. Many of them saw this as their way to survive and as a way to get back at the Germans who the aliens also now loathed. But later the Jews realizing that they intended to enslave all of humanity turned on the aliens as well.
As we humans are good at doing we fight back and eventually steal, borrow, and barter for the alien technology and use what we adapt to fight back. There is fighting literally on almost every continent of the planet. The aliens could nuke the whole planet and solve a lot of problems but there is a colonization fleet that is 20 years behind and they want to find planet Tosev 3 (earth) intact, habitable, and the people subjugated. But to show their power they do unleash nukes on some cities; Berlin and Washington D.C. to be exact. But once we discover this technology we stand toe to toe and fight with nukes as well. Eventually the U.S., Germany, and Russia win their independence but the aliens get over half the planet and uneasily a peace is reached.
But the colonization fleet is still on its way and bringing millions more aliens to colonize earth.
Genarlow Wilson Update
I am so happy that Genarlow Wilson has finally been freed. Some people will say that it shows the justice system works if given a chance, I say that is bull. This boy who is now a man was used and abused by our legal system. This case showed that there are many flaws and problems in our court system. We so blindly let legislatures set mandatory minimums, as far as sentences go, and they tie judges’ hands when good common since should prevail. It is sad that Genarlow had to sit in jail and had to have is case heard by the Georgia Supreme Court to win his freedom. And though he is free, he is still guilty of the charges against him; his conviction was not over thrown. No, he was released because it was deemed his punishment was cruel and unusual.
This is one of those times where I truly believe a presidential pardon, would have been and still could be appropriate. Again here is a young man who now has to try to rebuild his life and move and hope that others will move on as well. It would tremendous for him to be able to apply to colleges and they know that he has the weight of the president to keep him from failing.
What I mean by that is that if George Bush pardoned him that would be a cause to action. This was not a dumb kid or a thug he was a star athlete and he was a very good student. He would understand that presidential pardons carry responsibility; that you had better succeed. And I believe that Genarlow would be up to that challenge.
Of course that is one mans humble opinion. We have seen repeatedly that that man serving in the White House is not prone to doing what is right, but what looks politically right.
As I said at the beginning, I am truly happy that he is free and hope he will find success and true happiness in the future.
This is one of those times where I truly believe a presidential pardon, would have been and still could be appropriate. Again here is a young man who now has to try to rebuild his life and move and hope that others will move on as well. It would tremendous for him to be able to apply to colleges and they know that he has the weight of the president to keep him from failing.
What I mean by that is that if George Bush pardoned him that would be a cause to action. This was not a dumb kid or a thug he was a star athlete and he was a very good student. He would understand that presidential pardons carry responsibility; that you had better succeed. And I believe that Genarlow would be up to that challenge.
Of course that is one mans humble opinion. We have seen repeatedly that that man serving in the White House is not prone to doing what is right, but what looks politically right.
As I said at the beginning, I am truly happy that he is free and hope he will find success and true happiness in the future.
Saturday, November 10, 2007
Happy Birthday Requila
I have a beautiful niece, named Requila Shavonne Dezmonique Robinson. I miss my niece very much, and today is her birthday, she is 19 now. About a year ago or more I got in touch with her and her mom, but lost touch with them after my email was highjacked. My stupid fault, I didn't write down all the information Tammy, her mom, gave me.
My niece is tall and beautiful, her family lives in the area of Lafayette, Louisiana. I want to just drive out there and head to the last place she worked and start searching for her, but that would be wrong. I don't want to intrude on her life but I just want to know her and let her know she is loved and missed.
Here she is:
Dez or Tammy if you read this blog please send me an email at my new email bjvance35@hotmail.com or message me here. Know that I love you both and miss you both very dearly.
Family always gets my unconditional love.
My niece is tall and beautiful, her family lives in the area of Lafayette, Louisiana. I want to just drive out there and head to the last place she worked and start searching for her, but that would be wrong. I don't want to intrude on her life but I just want to know her and let her know she is loved and missed.
Here she is:
Dez or Tammy if you read this blog please send me an email at my new email bjvance35@hotmail.com or message me here. Know that I love you both and miss you both very dearly.
Family always gets my unconditional love.
Sunday, September 2, 2007
Michael Freakin Vick
So now Michael Vick has pleaded guilty, to dog-fighting charges. He has lost his endorsement deals, he has been suspended by the NFL, and he is going to be sentenced to some jail time very soon.
I have been so sick and tired of hearing people call in to radio shows and writing articles trying to justify or stick up for Michael Vick.
Look, I am from the south, the dirty south to be exact. I know there are somethings that go on back home and all over the south that people want to sweep under the rug and pretend don't exist. This is one that has crept out and was leaked out because of the celebrity of the criminal.
Plain and simple people dog fighting is a FEDERAL CRIME. Please, please stop trying to hold onto that argument that we kill deer, and cows, and other wild animals. There is an enormous difference between taking a dog (a domestic animal), training it up to kill or be killed, training it to attack on command, and killing wild animals we use for food and clothing. Stop trying to justify what Michael Vick has done, it was and is wrong.
And as if that wasn't enough then we find out that he personally assisted in the killing of many dogs. Again, how vile do you have to be to hang a dog, and then once you realize it isn't dead, to drown it in a 5 gallon bucket of water. That is beyond in-human, that is sadistic. It makes me worry that if he could do that so easily and go on with his day, what else is he capable of.
No, Michael Vick doesn't need more people trying to apologize for him, he needs to man up and take his punishment. He needs to understand that there are many of us out here who will never ever look at him the same.
And part of his punishment, should be doing whatever the lowest level job is at the Atlanta Humane Society. Maybe then he will learn to show some compassion to animals.
I have been so sick and tired of hearing people call in to radio shows and writing articles trying to justify or stick up for Michael Vick.
Look, I am from the south, the dirty south to be exact. I know there are somethings that go on back home and all over the south that people want to sweep under the rug and pretend don't exist. This is one that has crept out and was leaked out because of the celebrity of the criminal.
Plain and simple people dog fighting is a FEDERAL CRIME. Please, please stop trying to hold onto that argument that we kill deer, and cows, and other wild animals. There is an enormous difference between taking a dog (a domestic animal), training it up to kill or be killed, training it to attack on command, and killing wild animals we use for food and clothing. Stop trying to justify what Michael Vick has done, it was and is wrong.
And as if that wasn't enough then we find out that he personally assisted in the killing of many dogs. Again, how vile do you have to be to hang a dog, and then once you realize it isn't dead, to drown it in a 5 gallon bucket of water. That is beyond in-human, that is sadistic. It makes me worry that if he could do that so easily and go on with his day, what else is he capable of.
No, Michael Vick doesn't need more people trying to apologize for him, he needs to man up and take his punishment. He needs to understand that there are many of us out here who will never ever look at him the same.
And part of his punishment, should be doing whatever the lowest level job is at the Atlanta Humane Society. Maybe then he will learn to show some compassion to animals.
Saturday, September 1, 2007
What's Up
Well just to let you know what is going on in my life. I have been reading a lot, I have been totally engrossed in my Turtledove books. Each is about 400-550 pages, it is a tedious read, but this World War series has so many story lines, you can't put it down. After I finished the 3rd book, I thought I would wait a week to get the last one. Nope, I lasted one day, and not really that. I went to Barnes & Nobles and started reading the 4th one. Yes as I have said I know I am a dork.
I have also been writing a fair amount also. I have an idea for a TV show and I think it is a really good one. I of course love the fact that it is scripted and have already started working out the plot details and the writing the first draft for a pilot. This may be easier to get me out into the public eye as a writer or script writer than my screenplay.
I am working for Disney Mobile, it is phone and I like it. It is a great cell phone service for families with kids that want to get them cell phones. Not going to go into the whole sales call thing, but just let folks know what's up with me.
Lastly I have decided to leave my wonderful San Antonio. There are many factors playing into this decision, some more than others, but I have made the call. No I just have to decide where to go. I have looked at a couple of cities and am narrowing down my list. Once I have made a decision I will let everyone know. Man I am going to miss my city, but I know new adventures await.
Until next time. From now on, if it is just an update, I will label it update, so they are easier to access, by searching for the label update on my page.
I have also been writing a fair amount also. I have an idea for a TV show and I think it is a really good one. I of course love the fact that it is scripted and have already started working out the plot details and the writing the first draft for a pilot. This may be easier to get me out into the public eye as a writer or script writer than my screenplay.
I am working for Disney Mobile, it is phone and I like it. It is a great cell phone service for families with kids that want to get them cell phones. Not going to go into the whole sales call thing, but just let folks know what's up with me.
Lastly I have decided to leave my wonderful San Antonio. There are many factors playing into this decision, some more than others, but I have made the call. No I just have to decide where to go. I have looked at a couple of cities and am narrowing down my list. Once I have made a decision I will let everyone know. Man I am going to miss my city, but I know new adventures await.
Until next time. From now on, if it is just an update, I will label it update, so they are easier to access, by searching for the label update on my page.
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
Roots
I was recently watching one the Tyler Perry plays, I am not sure which one. It may have been “Madea Goes to Jail” or “Class Reunion”, but in it Madea gives some advice to one of her family members about people in you life. I am going to paraphrase it a little here to make a point.
She said think of yourself as a tree and the people you know, as the branches and leaves that make up your tree. She said some people come into your life for just a season. That they are like leaves, one minute they are there and the next they are gone. Which ever way the wind blows is the way the go. Good people in general, but they are not there to support you and strengthen you, just people you are meant to encounter. Maybe they teach you something, maybe they take from you something they need.
Then there are the branches; some give you strength and are strong, while some are weak and flimsy. Some will break if you apply to much pressure or pressure in just the wrong place. You may feel like they will support you and you may go out on a limb, but be careful for branches can let you down.
But your roots, she said your roots are there to hold you up, to build you up. Your roots are what gives you life and keeps you going. Madea said when you get yourself a good set of roots that you will always be alright.
Well I am here to tell you that roots can wither and die and let you down also. And when it happens it can be extremely shocking and upsetting. When roots wither and die it is like losing a piece of you and it is not easy to recover from.
I recently lost some of my roots, friends I knew I could count on, that I would do anything for. I considered them family and a part of me. These were not just friends or associates, but roots that stretched back over 10 years. Never in a million years could I imagine a future without us being a part of each others life, but yet here we are, and here I am.
I have gone through some tough times lately and have had to rely on my loved one to be there to be my strength. Do I feel weaker without these friends, yes I do. It is two less voices of reason for me to turn to, it is two less shoulders to cry on, and it is two less smiles to brighten my day.
My tree is weak and I can no longer let withered roots suck life from me, so I must put it to a stop. Like a lot of plants or trees with some bad roots you may have to repot them. Well that is what I have decided to do. I am cutting off those withered roots and holding fast to my true loved ones and repotting myself. I don’t know where yet and I don’t know when, but I do know I will be stronger for it. I have got to lift my head up again and see the sun shine on my face again.
Love You Guys – A&G
Brandon
She said think of yourself as a tree and the people you know, as the branches and leaves that make up your tree. She said some people come into your life for just a season. That they are like leaves, one minute they are there and the next they are gone. Which ever way the wind blows is the way the go. Good people in general, but they are not there to support you and strengthen you, just people you are meant to encounter. Maybe they teach you something, maybe they take from you something they need.
Then there are the branches; some give you strength and are strong, while some are weak and flimsy. Some will break if you apply to much pressure or pressure in just the wrong place. You may feel like they will support you and you may go out on a limb, but be careful for branches can let you down.
But your roots, she said your roots are there to hold you up, to build you up. Your roots are what gives you life and keeps you going. Madea said when you get yourself a good set of roots that you will always be alright.
Well I am here to tell you that roots can wither and die and let you down also. And when it happens it can be extremely shocking and upsetting. When roots wither and die it is like losing a piece of you and it is not easy to recover from.
I recently lost some of my roots, friends I knew I could count on, that I would do anything for. I considered them family and a part of me. These were not just friends or associates, but roots that stretched back over 10 years. Never in a million years could I imagine a future without us being a part of each others life, but yet here we are, and here I am.
I have gone through some tough times lately and have had to rely on my loved one to be there to be my strength. Do I feel weaker without these friends, yes I do. It is two less voices of reason for me to turn to, it is two less shoulders to cry on, and it is two less smiles to brighten my day.
My tree is weak and I can no longer let withered roots suck life from me, so I must put it to a stop. Like a lot of plants or trees with some bad roots you may have to repot them. Well that is what I have decided to do. I am cutting off those withered roots and holding fast to my true loved ones and repotting myself. I don’t know where yet and I don’t know when, but I do know I will be stronger for it. I have got to lift my head up again and see the sun shine on my face again.
Love You Guys – A&G
Brandon
Thursday, July 12, 2007
What am I
I like to listen to radio talk shows and NPR and of course sports talk radio. I hear the opinions of others and reflect on things they say and how it affects me. I hear people like Sean Hannity and Rush Limbaugh berate and lam bast democrats and liberals, while speaking of nothing but the good of republicans and conservatives. I also hear regular Americans just repeating things that people like those two say, it shocks me that they don't have their own opinion. If you can't listen to a political radio show and use what they say to form your own opinion then you are a drone. A drone waiting to be filled with information to go back around the country and spill forth. I will never be a drone, not a political drone, not a religious drone, and not an activist drone.
So this made me wonder, what exactly am I? I am not going to answer because I don't know, but I will tell you what I believe in and stand for. I AM AN AMERICAN, I love this country and have served this country proudly. I stand by the principles and values of the Constitution of the United States of America, and will fight to protect them.
-I believe in small government. Yet I think the government should protect us and do everything possible to improve the lives of it citizens.
-I believe the separation of church and state must be upheld.
-I don't think we should pass laws based on christian values and beliefs, as I don't think we should pass laws based on Muslim, or Buddhist, or Protestant, or Wiccan values and beliefs.
-I believe the government of the United States has no reason not to recognize gay marriage, if churches or synagogues chose not to perform a ceremony they don't have to, but the government should recognize these unions.
-I BELIEVE MY RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD IS MY BUSINESS, thus if I am gay or straight or whatever, I can live my life how I want.
-I believe that social programs can help people if they want to help themselves.
-I believe no one has the right to tell a woman what to do with her body, but I also don't think abortion should be used as birth control. Its a double edged sword.
-I believe the Attorney General should serve the will of the people and not the will of the President.
-I believe that there should be degrees of sex offenders from A-E and that should determine who has to register for the rest of their lives and who gets a second chance for something stupid like streaking at a football game.
-I believe the President should live by and be guided by and enforce the constitution, not make signing statements stating which laws he/she won't follow.
-I believe politicians should vote based upon whats best for their constituents and not based on back room deals with other politicians.
-I believe we as a people can not and will not kick 10-12 million people who are in this country, many of whom have never committed a crime, out of this country.
-I believe that global warming is taking place and that human beings are a major cause of that. I don't have a solution, but I can plainly see that objectively.
-I believe we should respect the sovereignty of other nations. Our leaders and we Americans must accept that the people of IRAN democratically chose their president.
-I believe the right to vote should be a protected right in the constitution.
So my question is what type of American am I?
If we are all Americans or are striving to be Americans and to reach the American dream, shouldn't we try to bring as many people as we can along with us.
So this made me wonder, what exactly am I? I am not going to answer because I don't know, but I will tell you what I believe in and stand for. I AM AN AMERICAN, I love this country and have served this country proudly. I stand by the principles and values of the Constitution of the United States of America, and will fight to protect them.
-I believe in small government. Yet I think the government should protect us and do everything possible to improve the lives of it citizens.
-I believe the separation of church and state must be upheld.
-I don't think we should pass laws based on christian values and beliefs, as I don't think we should pass laws based on Muslim, or Buddhist, or Protestant, or Wiccan values and beliefs.
-I believe the government of the United States has no reason not to recognize gay marriage, if churches or synagogues chose not to perform a ceremony they don't have to, but the government should recognize these unions.
-I BELIEVE MY RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD IS MY BUSINESS, thus if I am gay or straight or whatever, I can live my life how I want.
-I believe that social programs can help people if they want to help themselves.
-I believe no one has the right to tell a woman what to do with her body, but I also don't think abortion should be used as birth control. Its a double edged sword.
-I believe the Attorney General should serve the will of the people and not the will of the President.
-I believe that there should be degrees of sex offenders from A-E and that should determine who has to register for the rest of their lives and who gets a second chance for something stupid like streaking at a football game.
-I believe the President should live by and be guided by and enforce the constitution, not make signing statements stating which laws he/she won't follow.
-I believe politicians should vote based upon whats best for their constituents and not based on back room deals with other politicians.
-I believe we as a people can not and will not kick 10-12 million people who are in this country, many of whom have never committed a crime, out of this country.
-I believe that global warming is taking place and that human beings are a major cause of that. I don't have a solution, but I can plainly see that objectively.
-I believe we should respect the sovereignty of other nations. Our leaders and we Americans must accept that the people of IRAN democratically chose their president.
-I believe the right to vote should be a protected right in the constitution.
So my question is what type of American am I?
If we are all Americans or are striving to be Americans and to reach the American dream, shouldn't we try to bring as many people as we can along with us.
Wednesday, July 11, 2007
I've been gone for a little bit
Sorry to you who read my blog, I kind of stepped away for a little bit. Life has been challenging me very harshly lately, and I needed some Brandon time. I am back though. Sometimes you really need to leave everything else alone and focus inward on fixing what is broken. Having someone to lean on really helps, someone who shares your concern and you heartache and your joy. I am lucky that I found someone who wants me for me and wants to make me happy.
As Simon Webbe says 'the good times are coming around again', and I am ready to face them head on.
As Simon Webbe says 'the good times are coming around again', and I am ready to face them head on.
Monday, July 2, 2007
Now I am pissed
I really and truly think the George W. Bush, who I no longer refer to as the President, is an ass. Believe it or not most times I don't have a problem with this mans actions it what he says to justify his actions that I have a problem with. As I have said in the past if he had given me a true valid excuse to invade Iraq I would have been all for it. But he never did he changed it 3 times, the reason for going to Iraq, and one of those was after we were in there.
So now George has commuted the sentence of Scooter Libby. Fine, I have no problem with that. I expected it, I actually expected him to pardon him full out. But his reason, at least the reason he said, is the "Holy Grail" of hypocrisy. He felt the sentence was excessive, excessive. Excuse my stupid, idiotic, uninformed, and simple minded nature for not realizing that 30 months for Obstruction of Justice and 2 counts of Perjury was excessive. I was all smiles and fine with the commutation until I heard that part. It freakin stinks, it turns my stomach, and it smacks the legal system in the face to say that 2 1/2 years would have been to much. Mr. Libby likely would not have even served all of that time, but no that was just to much.
Now had he manned up and said I commuted him because I wanted to and becuase I am the president, I would have been fine with that. But he didn't, he actually gave a reason why and the reason if a bunch of bull crap. The sentence was excessive, get the hell out of here. George there are people in jail for the same crimes who were and are less guilty than Scooter who aren't getting a break or a commutation. George you swore you would bring integrity and honesty back to Washington, but you have done nothing of the sort.
If you have read my older posts especially the one on Genarlow Wilson you know where this is coming from.
So now George has commuted the sentence of Scooter Libby. Fine, I have no problem with that. I expected it, I actually expected him to pardon him full out. But his reason, at least the reason he said, is the "Holy Grail" of hypocrisy. He felt the sentence was excessive, excessive. Excuse my stupid, idiotic, uninformed, and simple minded nature for not realizing that 30 months for Obstruction of Justice and 2 counts of Perjury was excessive. I was all smiles and fine with the commutation until I heard that part. It freakin stinks, it turns my stomach, and it smacks the legal system in the face to say that 2 1/2 years would have been to much. Mr. Libby likely would not have even served all of that time, but no that was just to much.
Now had he manned up and said I commuted him because I wanted to and becuase I am the president, I would have been fine with that. But he didn't, he actually gave a reason why and the reason if a bunch of bull crap. The sentence was excessive, get the hell out of here. George there are people in jail for the same crimes who were and are less guilty than Scooter who aren't getting a break or a commutation. George you swore you would bring integrity and honesty back to Washington, but you have done nothing of the sort.
If you have read my older posts especially the one on Genarlow Wilson you know where this is coming from.
Friday, June 29, 2007
Well, the naked truth
So, that appointment was the greatest thing to happen to me in my life. It really hit me hard the possibility that I could have cancer. Just one of those things that blows you away. I look at it two ways, my doctor gave me a couple weeks to get my mind around either possibility. You know me, I am an optomist so I expect the best and will prepare for the best. To clarify for those that don't know, I have in the last 6 months discovered a couple of lumps on the back of my skull and on and around my neck. Altogether it is a total of 4 lumps of varying size. One of them has been there for about 2 years now. But the other three kind of came about at the same time. So I had to go to general surgery to get them looked at and biopsied, now just a matter of waiting to see what will be. I freaked out yesterday and I was very very emotional, but I am better. I am in New Orleans with my family, I just needed to come home for a bit to get myself recharged and get a little family support.
I will be back in San Antonio soon, once I am ready to steam ahead. I won't be stopped and I am still reaching for my goals.
Talk to you later, love you all,
Brandon J. Vance
Make life what you want it to be!
http://brandonjvance.blogspot.com/
I will be back in San Antonio soon, once I am ready to steam ahead. I won't be stopped and I am still reaching for my goals.
Talk to you later, love you all,
Brandon J. Vance
Make life what you want it to be!
http://brandonjvance.blogspot.com/
Thursday, June 28, 2007
Nervous about tomorrow
I completely forgot that on tomorrow 06/29/07 I am supposed to be going to surgery for the two lumps on the back of my skull. I have laughed them off as cancer lumps but now I am a little nervous. My appointment is at 10:30 in the morning and I probably will not sleep for nervous fear. Its funny the things your mind will ignore or put off completely. Well I guess that means no eating or drinking tonight at Chacho's. Of course you know me, I threw away the letter I got from the doctors office which probably has all the instructions. Oh well, I will show up and be a trooper.
Love you all.
Love you all.
Tuesday, June 26, 2007
I love San Antonio
Man I love San Antonio, it is truly a great city. We have amazing people here who work hard day in and day out and will give you the shirt off their back. I know there are hard working people and nice people everywhere it is just they are nicer here. LOL, people tell me all the time how friendly people are in San Antonio, they will invite you into their homes for dinner or to their families wedding just for the experience. And of course as I always tell people we love, love, love to here. Whether it is our Annual Fiesta, or Folklife Festival, or Juneteenth, or Octoberfest we will find something to party for in San Antonio.
Now some people will find this corny, but remember I am a simple guy so that is why this is cool to me. In San Antonio we used to have 5 military bases so we had a very large transient community. So, we have a lot of apartment complexes here, and I mean a lot is an understatement. I was helping my friend Julian find an apartment today and I went to 13 places by myself in just a 5 square mile radius. Now on top of that is the fact that you can find whatever you want in an apartment in this city. You want vaulted ceilings, got that, you want a jacuzzi in the bath, got that, or on the patio, got that. It still blows me away all the things or amenities one can find in an apartment. If found several really good deals and great locations for Julian. I hope he choses one of those rather than living downtown as he seems set to doing.
Anyway to each their own, I did what a good friend should and gave the best advice I could. To the rest of the world come visit our great city and enjoy all that San Antonio has to offer.
Now some people will find this corny, but remember I am a simple guy so that is why this is cool to me. In San Antonio we used to have 5 military bases so we had a very large transient community. So, we have a lot of apartment complexes here, and I mean a lot is an understatement. I was helping my friend Julian find an apartment today and I went to 13 places by myself in just a 5 square mile radius. Now on top of that is the fact that you can find whatever you want in an apartment in this city. You want vaulted ceilings, got that, you want a jacuzzi in the bath, got that, or on the patio, got that. It still blows me away all the things or amenities one can find in an apartment. If found several really good deals and great locations for Julian. I hope he choses one of those rather than living downtown as he seems set to doing.
Anyway to each their own, I did what a good friend should and gave the best advice I could. To the rest of the world come visit our great city and enjoy all that San Antonio has to offer.
Sunday, June 24, 2007
Senator Obama in San Antonio part 1
I guess this is what this whole blogging thing has been leading up to. Today Senator Barack Obama (www.barackobama.com) made his way to San Antonio to speak to his supporters and to people in general. He is a fascinating man and a very good orator. It was a warm, humid day in San Antonio, but we were all still excited about seeing the man himself. The pavilion at Sunset Station was packed and they had guest speakers and music to entertain us until the senator came out to speak.
And if it seems like I was right up front, well that is because I was. I was right behind the barricade separating us from the senator. I decided to put the last clip first to illustrate this, not to mention I just like this clip.
0:42 - Receiving Line
We were treated to an extra special surprise, after state representatives Juan M. Garcia and Ruth McClendon spoke to the crowd. They introduced the best perimeter defender in the NBA, Bruce Bowen. He came out in a nice grey suit and worked up the crowd and then Bruce introduced Senator Barack Obama. The crowd was yelling and going crazy it was great fun.
2:26 - Bruce
The senator let us know he was going to be speaking about unifing our country. He spoke about healthcare, education, energy and oil dependence, the economy, and the horrible, horrible war in Iraq.
2:27 - Overview
It’s going to be a great election and a great campaign.
Continue down for the second set of videos.
And if it seems like I was right up front, well that is because I was. I was right behind the barricade separating us from the senator. I decided to put the last clip first to illustrate this, not to mention I just like this clip.
0:42 - Receiving Line
We were treated to an extra special surprise, after state representatives Juan M. Garcia and Ruth McClendon spoke to the crowd. They introduced the best perimeter defender in the NBA, Bruce Bowen. He came out in a nice grey suit and worked up the crowd and then Bruce introduced Senator Barack Obama. The crowd was yelling and going crazy it was great fun.
2:26 - Bruce
The senator let us know he was going to be speaking about unifing our country. He spoke about healthcare, education, energy and oil dependence, the economy, and the horrible, horrible war in Iraq.
2:27 - Overview
It’s going to be a great election and a great campaign.
Continue down for the second set of videos.
Senator Obama in San Antonio part 2
The Democratic Party and event organization decided to call themselves “ALAMOBAMA”. It is a play on the Alamo (www.thealamo.org) our most famous landmark and Obama the senators last name.
2:17 – Alamobama
Senator Obama spoke about the state of our healthcare system, the fact that we spend double almost every nation, yet we have millions upon millions who go without basic care. He wants to lead us towards universal healthcare within his first term.
He spoke about our failing school system and the so called success of “No Child Left Behind”. I find it funny that we as Americans can be so easily fooled that our schools are doing great and that our children are getting the best education in the world.
3:00 – Healthcare & Education
The senator spoke about the war and the need for us to “BRING OUR TROOPS HOME”. And he did not say drop everything and get out now. We can’t do that, we can’t just leave and forget about the havoc that we have caused. But, it is time to start looking at a strategic, planned withdrawal of our troops. This is what the senator also called for.
I have another clip that I am going to upload in which he talks to us about his recent visit to Selma, Alabama. He spoke of the historical significance of Selma and what happened to the civil rites marchers back in 1965. How they were attacked and beaten as they tried to march to the state capital on March 7, 1965. Civil rights leaders went to the courts for protection and won. On March 21, 1965 nearly 3,200 marchers set out to the state capitol in Montgomery. Four days later they made it, walking 12 miles a day and sleeping in fields. By the time they arrived their numbers had swelled to over 25,000 people. Less than five months after this march President Lyndon Johnson signed the Voting Rights Act of 1965.
He spoke of how grateful he was to those that risked their lives in the past to bring equality and fairness to all people which allows him to stand before the world and run for President of the United States of America.
1:31 - Climax
Again it is going to be a great election and a great campaign.
2:17 – Alamobama
Senator Obama spoke about the state of our healthcare system, the fact that we spend double almost every nation, yet we have millions upon millions who go without basic care. He wants to lead us towards universal healthcare within his first term.
He spoke about our failing school system and the so called success of “No Child Left Behind”. I find it funny that we as Americans can be so easily fooled that our schools are doing great and that our children are getting the best education in the world.
3:00 – Healthcare & Education
The senator spoke about the war and the need for us to “BRING OUR TROOPS HOME”. And he did not say drop everything and get out now. We can’t do that, we can’t just leave and forget about the havoc that we have caused. But, it is time to start looking at a strategic, planned withdrawal of our troops. This is what the senator also called for.
I have another clip that I am going to upload in which he talks to us about his recent visit to Selma, Alabama. He spoke of the historical significance of Selma and what happened to the civil rites marchers back in 1965. How they were attacked and beaten as they tried to march to the state capital on March 7, 1965. Civil rights leaders went to the courts for protection and won. On March 21, 1965 nearly 3,200 marchers set out to the state capitol in Montgomery. Four days later they made it, walking 12 miles a day and sleeping in fields. By the time they arrived their numbers had swelled to over 25,000 people. Less than five months after this march President Lyndon Johnson signed the Voting Rights Act of 1965.
He spoke of how grateful he was to those that risked their lives in the past to bring equality and fairness to all people which allows him to stand before the world and run for President of the United States of America.
1:31 - Climax
Again it is going to be a great election and a great campaign.
Senator Obama in San Antonio part 3
Here are some still shots from the San Antonio Obama kickoff. As I said before I was right up front and got to shake his hand in the receiving line.
Fans and Supporters
Senator Barack Obama
Get out and get active, vote, vote, vote.
Fans and Supporters
Senator Barack Obama
Get out and get active, vote, vote, vote.
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
My first WNBA Wednesday
So interesting day today, I don't know why but there was just a weird day. I woke up really really late and well that says it all right there. As always I was on a clock and rushing up until 4 cause I had to go, but then I remembered something. What I remembered was that the Minnesota Lynx of the WNBA (http://www.wnba.com/) were coming to town. Now yeah, most of you are probably like big freakin deal. But me, I like the WNBA, and I especially like Seimone Augustus. She played for the LSU Lady Tigers basketball team and took her team to the final four 3 straight times in '04, '05, and '06. As an LSU player between 2004-2006 Seimone won like 5-7 player of the year awards either national or conference.
Well, so I said forget about 4:00, I'm going to the game. Now it was weird, cause I was rooting for the Silver Stars, but I also was rooting for Seimone and Lindsey Harding. It was a good game and actually I had fun. The Silver Stars were never really challenged in this game it was over by half time. But the Lynx fought back and cut the 22 point defecit to a 7 point loss. I think everyone should get out and see a WNBA game.
Oh yeah, I got Seimone to autograph my LSU cap as she left the court. I was excited so I left after she did, but the girl behind really lucked out. Not only did she get an autograph from Seimone, she took off her shoes she just played in and gave them to the girl as well. She was so excited and happy, I wish I could have gotten a picture of that. But I do have some pictures, check them out.
Well, so I said forget about 4:00, I'm going to the game. Now it was weird, cause I was rooting for the Silver Stars, but I also was rooting for Seimone and Lindsey Harding. It was a good game and actually I had fun. The Silver Stars were never really challenged in this game it was over by half time. But the Lynx fought back and cut the 22 point defecit to a 7 point loss. I think everyone should get out and see a WNBA game.
Oh yeah, I got Seimone to autograph my LSU cap as she left the court. I was excited so I left after she did, but the girl behind really lucked out. Not only did she get an autograph from Seimone, she took off her shoes she just played in and gave them to the girl as well. She was so excited and happy, I wish I could have gotten a picture of that. But I do have some pictures, check them out.
Monday, June 18, 2007
Yeah Me IDIOT
So remember the video I was supposed to put up from the river parade, well yeah it generally would help if you charge your camera's battery. STUPID STUPID STUPID
So needless to say that there are no videos coming from the parade or the Alamodome celebration on yesterday.
Well the parade was great it was extremely long this year I think they had like 25+ floats and everyone and their grandmother was on a float. Thousands upon thousands of fans crowded the riverwalk to celebrate our world champions. The Spurs players were having a blast and it was awesome. Oh yeah Placido Domingo the great tenor was on one of the floats as well and sang the National Anthem. Since I was stupid I and forgot to charge my camera, I have a slide of some great shots.
River Parade
Alamodome Celebration
Man oh man, I hope they can repeat next year. The city is still in a buzz on this.
So needless to say that there are no videos coming from the parade or the Alamodome celebration on yesterday.
Well the parade was great it was extremely long this year I think they had like 25+ floats and everyone and their grandmother was on a float. Thousands upon thousands of fans crowded the riverwalk to celebrate our world champions. The Spurs players were having a blast and it was awesome. Oh yeah Placido Domingo the great tenor was on one of the floats as well and sang the National Anthem. Since I was stupid I and forgot to charge my camera, I have a slide of some great shots.
River Parade
Alamodome Celebration
Man oh man, I hope they can repeat next year. The city is still in a buzz on this.
Sunday, June 17, 2007
Candelight and Friends
So I took my new friends Lee, and Danny over to Candlelight Coffeehouse (www.candlelightsa.com). They are great with computers and design and maintain websites. They are really cool guys and I told them I would help them out by introducing them to some of the companies that I know and the owners if I know them. I hadn't been to Candlelight in a while so I was excited to go there. I love that place.
We hung out and chilled had some coffee and smoothies while taking in the place. Danny is a good salesman and we met the manager who spoke with Danny for a good while about what he does and what he can do on sites.
They also taught me something new. Now you know me, I am not a very proud person. If I am wrong I will admit I am wrong, if I don't know something obvious I don't have a problem saying thank you when someone shows me. So if you have read some of my other blogs you know I like to put the websites of things so you can use them to see if you find it interesting. But, I didn't know how to make them clickable for you. Well duh, its the simplest thing. You just highlight what you want and click the hyperlink button. Then you just type the address you want it to go to in the hyperlink box and there you go. Duhhhhh. I had to laugh that it was that easy.
Oh well the Spurs celebration and parade are this evening so I will be posting a seperate blog about that with videos and pics and stuff.
Later
We hung out and chilled had some coffee and smoothies while taking in the place. Danny is a good salesman and we met the manager who spoke with Danny for a good while about what he does and what he can do on sites.
They also taught me something new. Now you know me, I am not a very proud person. If I am wrong I will admit I am wrong, if I don't know something obvious I don't have a problem saying thank you when someone shows me. So if you have read some of my other blogs you know I like to put the websites of things so you can use them to see if you find it interesting. But, I didn't know how to make them clickable for you. Well duh, its the simplest thing. You just highlight what you want and click the hyperlink button. Then you just type the address you want it to go to in the hyperlink box and there you go. Duhhhhh. I had to laugh that it was that easy.
Oh well the Spurs celebration and parade are this evening so I will be posting a seperate blog about that with videos and pics and stuff.
Later
Friday, June 15, 2007
Spus are Home
The fans in San Antonio turned out to welcome home the 2007 NBA World Champion San Antonio Spurs. A few thousand fans took off from work and whatever responsibilites they had to take shuttles to the San Antonio International Airport(SAT). Why you might ask, well hello to welcome home our Champions. The fans beared the heat and the concrete to be on hand for a mini celebration. The Spurs Coyote got the crowd worked up by brining out the 3 previous championship tropies one at time. Placing them in front of cards with the years of the win ('99, '03, '05) leaving 2007 empty.
The players then came off the plane looking refreshed and still full of excitement from their clinching win last night before. Tim Duncan then followed his teammates to the stage carrying the new 2007 Championship Trophy. Bruce Bowen, ever the MC, took to the microphone and immediately led the fans in "GO SPURS GO" cheer. He then passed the mic to Finals MVP Tony Parker, who thanked the fans for their support and love. Michael Finely then got to the microphone and showed his deep appreciation for the fans and the team and for winning his 1st championship in his 12 year career. This was ultimately a resounding success and fans loved it and cheered "GO SPURS GO" as the team the stage to depart on buses.
The river parade is going to be on Sunday at 6 followed by the Alamodome celebration. I can't wait, I am going to upload videos from the party.
The players then came off the plane looking refreshed and still full of excitement from their clinching win last night before. Tim Duncan then followed his teammates to the stage carrying the new 2007 Championship Trophy. Bruce Bowen, ever the MC, took to the microphone and immediately led the fans in "GO SPURS GO" cheer. He then passed the mic to Finals MVP Tony Parker, who thanked the fans for their support and love. Michael Finely then got to the microphone and showed his deep appreciation for the fans and the team and for winning his 1st championship in his 12 year career. This was ultimately a resounding success and fans loved it and cheered "GO SPURS GO" as the team the stage to depart on buses.
The river parade is going to be on Sunday at 6 followed by the Alamodome celebration. I can't wait, I am going to upload videos from the party.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
