Disqus - Latest Comments for David Nick

Re: Was It Corruption?

David Nick — Sat, 01 Dec 2007 20:14:15 -0000

Keep in mind that Lou Dobbs is no dummy. He's Harvard educated and very sure of his position on many issues including illegal immigration. While I don't agree with some of Lou's position's I do think illegal immigration is the most important issue facing this country. It has ties into healthcare, welfare, spending/taxation, homeland security, executive branch law enforcement (or lack thereof), sanctuary city policies and whether or not federal law trumps state law (or lack of enforcement), which also alludes to whether or not we unjustly convict border patrol agents who do their jobs and tossed in jail for doing them.

In regards to the PEW poll, great, illegal immigration is tied for 3rd. Whooppee. I think what is a shame is the American people in general could give a rat's ass about polls, political issues, especially when elections don't "affect them any way".

When citizens go out to exercise their GOD GIVEN RIGHT TO VOTE, then perhaps we have something to talk about here.

:D

Re: Leo’s Twitter Updates for 2008-01-20

David Nick — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 12:56:25 -0000

It's a great thing that being a geek supercedes political ideology Leo because I love you despite the fact that you lean a "l'il" left :)

Re: Leo’s Twitter Updates for 2008-01-28

David Nick — Tue, 29 Jan 2008 10:08:25 -0000

I love the Halo trilogy Leo, but after selling my Xbox 360 before anything flaky started I have to wonder if purchasing another Xbox is worth it.

Do you know if the PS3's are having hardware issues?

Re: Shocker: Asus warranty doesn't cover exploding 3rd party batteries

David Nick — Wed, 07 May 2008 21:35:14 -0000

It's kinda funny because I sent an email to that Ebay "Taiwan" battery vendor asking them if they warranty damage to the EEE PC caused by their battery and they told me "No, we only warranty the battery, sorry."

That was all I needed to know. I am hoping Asus moves its ass on the 6cell because I'm wanting more "off-the-grid" time.

Re: Eee PC 901, 1000(H) to hit the US on July 8th

David Nick — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 23:46:17 -0000

What about a release date on the EEE Box?

Re: Amazon starts taking Eee PC 901/1000/1000H preorders

David Nick — Sun, 06 Jul 2008 00:33:19 -0000

try here : http://www.amazon.com/1000H-Display-Intel-Proce...

Re: Gigabyte reveals M912V details and pricing

David Nick — Sun, 06 Jul 2008 21:22:23 -0000

Boy I do hope the US gets them, as I would skip all the mini-notes for a tablet model

Re: Belkin intros line of Eee PC bags

David Nick — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 22:58:46 -0000

"actually kind of attractive"

wtf????

Re: Another Eee PC 901 price drop: Just $448 at Walmart

David Nick — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:17:55 -0000

Also Newegg is selling their 1000h for $449 as well. It was such a good surprise considering I was on the prowl for a new laptop today and seized on the drop in price.

Re: Eltrinex MobilePC: Czech netbook with 320GB HDD

David Nick — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 12:49:00 -0000

Another thing to consider.....I own an EEE 701, and 1000h, and walking into Best Buy the other day they had an external Western Digital "My Book" that has 320GB of storage space for $78. I don't know about most people, but 320GB for $78, usb 2.0 plug in (although it needs an external power source) is truly worth snatching up.

Just an FYI

Re: PC Pro names Eee PC hardware of the year

David Nick — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 12:21:18 -0000

Certainly the EEE pc is both innovative as well as a "Why didn't I think of that". Who would have thought that MS decision to kill XP would cause a revolt to linux? LOL That's the innovative part. The "wditof" part comes in knowing that if you're a sys/net admin and tired of lugging a large ass machine in with you, a small, portable router-configurable-device like this would be the perfect machine!

just my 2 cents

Re: NWS Releases Weather Data in XML

David Nick — Tue, 07 Dec 2004 17:36:26 -0000

If you decide to post that letter on your blog Mike let me know, I'll link to it.

Re: Wordpress and Lost Stylesheets

David Nick — Tue, 07 Dec 2004 23:33:25 -0000

Any French woman would be a step up from Theresa I suppose, but I hope John "sticks" with her. They are made for each other :)

Re: NWS Releases Weather Data in XML

David Nick — Wed, 08 Dec 2004 17:47:08 -0000

Yeah, just don't get caught under a bridge when they empty their waste over it!

I hear that's a pretty smelly disaster LOL

Re: Wireless Network

David Nick — Wed, 13 Apr 2005 23:45:33 -0000

See, we have a ton in common. I too have to have my Alias fix (Oh if I could date Jennifer Garner). As for your wireless nightmare, I live in a house where I can drill through the walls and ceilings, so, I have a nice wired network. :) I don't plan on going wireless until I get a laptop. That won't be any time soon :( (My dreams of a powerbook will have to get shelved) Anyway, good luck! Murphy and his dumb laws often play havoc to us IT guys.

Re: Senate Republicans Are Doing A Fine Job Of Hanging Themselves

David Nick — Fri, 15 Apr 2005 12:59:42 -0000

If you decide to post that letter on your blog Mike let me know, I'll link to it.

Re: 100 Years

David Nick — Sat, 16 Apr 2005 00:02:02 -0000

See Aaron, now yer talking! Time to put that P3 to use as an MP3 Jukebox, stop wasting time! 350 cds will take some time, but once it's loaded LOOK OUT! :) I don't have that many cd's I have about 125 right now, but I admit I am a rat from the old Napster days and I am sitting on a quiet pile of MP3z.

I am so weak.... ;)

Re: Which Country Would You Like To See Win the Miss USA Contest?

David Nick — Sat, 16 Apr 2005 00:05:55 -0000

Any French woman would be a step up from Theresa I suppose, but I hope John "sticks" with her. They are made for each other :)

Re: PRS Santana SE Guitar up for Sale!

David Nick — Sun, 17 Apr 2005 04:00:59 -0000

Seagull is a great acoustic, I own one myself :)

Re: Dave Matthews in Virginia Beach

David Nick — Fri, 22 Apr 2005 10:45:50 -0000

Yeah, just don't get caught under a bridge when they empty their waste over it!

I hear that's a pretty smelly disaster LOL

Re: Presidential Legacies

David Nick — Fri, 22 Apr 2005 15:07:26 -0000

Well let's not forget Waco, Ruby Ridge, Oklahoma City Bombing, the first Trade Center bombings.

Clinton can't be said to be a great or even a decent President because he unleashed some highly questionable policies towards people he felt were too anti-government. You can't just blame Janet Reno on that.

Speaking of Janet, what about Elian Gonzalez? LOL While it's great to theorize that perhaps he was good, prove it to me. I can't see it. It's not to say I dis clinton because he was a filanderer, or unethical, or because he was a Democrat, they guy was just awful.

Do you remember all the last minute controversial pardons he gave? Marc Rich for instance... The feds were after that guy for years because of federal corruption charges, he fled to a European non extradition country where he lived out his wealthy life until somehow he got his wife to buddy up to Clinton for that pardon (which she bought by the way via illegal campaign contributions).

I mean I have seen some Republicans with questionable ethics, like Tom Delay, but I haven't seen President Bush with the chronic problems that Clinton has. That's not to say Bush isn't wrong about illegal immigration or national security, or even his United Americas policies, but having a stance on policy is ALOT different than being corrupt, and breaking laws.

Re: I’ve won an OSCAA

David Nick — Fri, 22 Apr 2005 22:36:54 -0000

Congrats Aaron! Now we're going places :D

Re: Presidential Legacies

David Nick — Sat, 23 Apr 2005 13:47:11 -0000

You're doing a great job :D hehehe

Re: Blogging Draft Day - First Round

David Nick — Sat, 23 Apr 2005 15:20:15 -0000

There was wide speculation here that the Vikings was going to spend their 7th draft pick on a Wide Receiver to fill the Randy Moss gap, but we'll see if they put him into play for this upcoming season and depend upon him as much as that "poster child for behavioral modification drugs" Moss. :)

Re: Wittling Away

David Nick — Mon, 25 Apr 2005 10:45:07 -0000

Man, that's awful LOL

Re: MCP Achieved

David Nick — Sat, 30 Apr 2005 16:25:38 -0000

Congrats Aaron! Not it's on to RedHat :)

Heh

Re: MCP Achieved

David Nick — Sat, 30 Apr 2005 16:26:06 -0000

Erm..."Now"... I really should use a spell checker :(

Re: Traffic Reports via RSS

David Nick — Mon, 09 May 2005 01:12:13 -0000

Wow, excellent post! And useful! Thanks Aaron for getting the skinny :)

Re: RealID on Tap For Congrssional Vote

David Nick — Mon, 09 May 2005 18:23:50 -0000

::wonders where Aaron has been:: :)

Re: RealID on Tap For Congrssional Vote

David Nick — Tue, 10 May 2005 17:57:01 -0000

LOL Aaron

Mike, we are already paying enough for everything. It seems that government's answer to solve problems is "Throw money at it" and it will take care of itself.

No one seems to get that REAL ID doesn't go anywhere to stopping illegal immigration which IS THE PROBLEM. At best, it's a bandaid on a failing dam.

Just the other day it was reported about that most major metropolitan cities are experiencing worsening traffic congestion in decades and I have to question and wonder how much of that is due to illegal immigrants. You can't tell me that since we are granting licenses to them that they aren't driving cars and yet by these reports I'm supposed to feel bad that we have a traffic problem in our major cities.

There are solutions to this, but a lot of people seem to be blind to the fact that illegal immigration isn't just about potato farming or working jobs americans won't take. LOL

Vinnie you said it right when you said the republican party has been anything but conservative, especially since the Bush Administration has come into power. That's why you won't ever see an (R) by my name :)

Re: Link Roundup: RealID

David Nick — Wed, 11 May 2005 14:54:13 -0000

Listen, whatever concepts or preconcieved notions you have about your "privacy" the government knows who you are, and they can access you more now than they ever could due to modern internet technology.

That being said, I don't want my government prying it's eyes into my business, nor do I want them stalking me to determine whether or not I am a threat to a government politician or office simply because I have blogged that I oppose policies and laws.

But if you think that by passing a National ID is somehow going to be the ultimate invasion of your privacy you apparently don't have a bank account, credit card, or cellphone.

How many times have you walked into a bank and stuck your thumbprint on your check to cash it and yet still have to provide 2 forms of ID?

What do you think banks do with your fingerprint?

The only thing that keeps you thinking your privacy ISN'T being invaded is you don't have that nondescript Chevy Suburban with the dark tinted windows out on your street every day.

I submit to you that those in Law Enforcement and Government can get to know you in alot more easier ways than you having a National ID card. LOL

Re: RealID on Tap For Congrssional Vote

David Nick — Wed, 11 May 2005 15:04:00 -0000

Well to correct you on one point Aaron you said:

Immigrants donâ€™t try to illegally immigrate to Coloradoâ€¦ or to Minnesota where Dave isâ€¦ or to Maryland where we are.

We do have illegal immigrants here. I have also covered a few of them on my blog and there is a community of them here. Why they come to this frozen tundra I don't know except to say that companies here hire them and employ them which raises the total cost on everything.

I know you were speaking about general terms, but I just wanted to clarify that point. :)

Carry on LOL

Now Mike, the REAL ID act was an important piece of legislation to help combat people like Al Qaida getting licenses, but there is a clause in that new legislation that says the federal law won't do anything to prevent states from issuing driver's "certificates" if they wanted to. LOL That to me says the law will be useless. States are saying they will do whatever they can to circumvent this law even if it means they will lose federal funding. That tells me that state politicians want to encourage illegal immigration and put the burden of cost onto the backs of law abiding tax payers.

Re: Yahoo! Please Call Me!

David Nick — Wed, 11 May 2005 17:16:42 -0000

Good luck with that Aaron, I do hope that if it falls thru that your current employer doesn't give you the axe LOL

Re: Radical Christianity a No-Go

David Nick — Wed, 24 Aug 2005 14:07:09 -0000

Hi Aaron, LTNS, I appologize but life as you know has grabbed a lot of my time lately. While I have a minute tho, I wanted to expand on your thoughts and share some of my own.

While you know what faith I belong to (we had that discussion once), I don't go around advertising it to too many people because everyone then makes assumptions and believes I am a crackpot. LOL I assure you I'm not! :) I agree with you about your faith being your own deeply personal thing and therefore you desire to not broadcast it like a loud mouth screaming liberal! LOL Bravo! You are one more step closer to becoming more conservative (it's not just a political position).

It's true that there are a lot of different christian groups out there who say "Believe in my way or go to hell", but I feel alot of them miss a very serious point, and that is your faith IS your business because ONLY YOU are held responsible for your personal salvation!

I see a lot of intolerance with all different religious groups (mine is no exception) but we must remember that it's the church that is perfect NOT THE PEOPLE!

If we were all perfect wouldn't we already be up in Heaven with Jesus? Instead of down here working from paycheck to paycheck?

I will only disagree with 1 thing about Pat Robertson. While I think he's a moron for saying something that outlandish, certainly you've (not you personally) been overheard saying something ignorant or dumb. Count your many blessings that you don't have the national audience that he does which garners immediate gossip and speculation everytime you mention assassinating a moron dictator like Chavez! :)

While it does say in the 10 commandments "Thou shalt not kill" Heavenly Father is seen in the bible killing thousands. (Easy one to remember Moses and the Romans, Red Sea, etc.) We lose sight of the fact that war among men is sometimes called to action and that what happens in a war is death. Heavenly Father knows which wars were committed in righteousness and that is why people should recognize the difference in death from war and outright murder.

As for assassination, I am all for it if and only if the ends justify the means. In otherwords, I would have been all too happy to see Saddam take a bullet instead of spending billions of our tax dollars holding him in a maximum security prision where I'm certain he's fed steak if he wants it, lawyers, trails, judges, clerks, and everyone else we have to pay for so he can get a "fair trial". LOL

Hugo Chavez is an evil man, anyone who's read news coming out of Venezuela would know that, and to have this guy removed before he becomes the next Saddam is something worth considering.

We will have to come to the realization that in this day and age we spend more of our time policing the world because everyone holds US responsible when "it hits the fan".

Take it easy guys! And just spend some time laughing at the public jesters ;)

Re: Katrina

David Nick — Wed, 31 Aug 2005 10:34:20 -0000

Hey Aaron,

I also think the heros of this disaster are the average "Joe Citizen" who have stepped up and offered their vehicles, their precious supplies, and their time to help their neighbors to safety, driving them to higher and drier ground, and not busy looting the remnants of stores in unsecured areas like some of the "citizens" are doing.

You're in my prayers Aaron, take it easy bud :)

Re: Regarding Civil Liberties

David Nick — Mon, 19 Dec 2005 21:21:33 -0000

Hola Aaron,

Glad to see your voice in this matter. This NSA fiasco (which is what it is) really needs to be objectively looked at. First of all, this wouldn't even be a discussion if the NYT hadn't published a story to preempt a book release. Secondly, there are some questions as to how this information was leaked to this "author" who in less than 10 days hopes to profit on ill gotten classified information.

Aside from all of that, I have to ask what the big deal is? While I do worry about big brother having free will to peer into my phone conversations, check up on my latest novel purchases (many of them involving espionage mind you LOL), I can't say I disagree with the methods the President is using to go after terrorists and anyone the government "assumes" is in bed with Al-Qaeda.

I realize that I will likely inflame the "Keep gov't outta my personal lives" crowd, and I feel the same way about Government being a tool for the people not a method to control civilians, but I would be willing to loosen up some legal "belts" if that means it would be used to hunt down terrorist cells in this country.

Perhaps I am taking a casual look concerning what my government is doing with "extra power", but, I am certain everyone can agree that if you want to prevent 9/11 part 2, you then are willing to sacrifice to achieve those goals.

Impeaching President Bush I think is a bit extreme when his predecessor bombed na aspirin factory and he wasn't thrown out of office. If we are to learn anything from that last clown in office, impeachment doesn't mean he gets the boot.

Good article Aaron, this is a great topic.

Re: Regarding Civil Liberties

David Nick — Mon, 19 Dec 2005 22:25:01 -0000

HeH :)

As far as this whole situation goes, all we know for certain is that the President authorized the NSA to utilize its assets in spying on people making phonecalls and emails outside the US. No one knows what took place behind the scenes at the White House but EVERYONE seems to love speculating the "what-ifs".

Congress is charged with running any investigations into criminal actions, but my guess is that Congress WAS briefed, and people involved in the Intelligence Committees were made aware of EXACTLY what was going on.

Where were they then?

I find this whole thing politically motivated by the left. And that, more than the NSA spying on associates or believed associates of Al-Qaeda should be our focus. It should cause us to ask ourselves WHY the left has played this card, and for what purposes.

I find it all highly suspect, but like I said, if these naysayers in Congress are that upset, they should launch an inquiry. Put their money where their mouths are, so to speak. ;)

As for writing for you again, I would love to! If, I had time in my schedule these next few months.

I just got done with finals for my first semester (3.2GPA TYVM) and I am gearing up for my wedding, moving, honeymoon, all set to take place the first week of January. OY!

Then, Jan 9th, I start semester 2 and when that happens, I will have little time for anything other than wife, work, school. I am always around and I miss blogging.

See ya later. Merry Christmas my friend.

Re: Regarding Civil Liberties

David Nick — Tue, 20 Dec 2005 13:30:46 -0000

If you haven't read Bill Kristol's article in the Washington Post, I urge you to read it.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/ar...

Mr. Kristol has some valid points as it relates to this whole NSA debacle.

Re: Regarding Civil Liberties

David Nick — Tue, 20 Dec 2005 14:33:08 -0000

Aaron-

I am a conservative. Not a republican. Let's make that distinction first. LOL

Secondly, if you listen to what Harry Reid says versus a "NeoCon" I am deeply troubled LOL.

Seriously though, Harry Reid isn't the only one who was briefed on the steps the President has taken.

Mike posted that link to the OpEd piece in the WSJ and I think you should read that as well. I don't know who wrote it, but it certainly backs up some of the points I have been trying to make.

Those being that the President hasn't just trump freedom and privacy in lieu of "going after extremists" or people he thinks fit into that mold.

The left and the MSM do fine enough work inciting fear and pandemonium amongst the ill-informed that I think any blog reader should be more informed than your average paper reader or Sunday morning news viewer.

I know you can understand that Aaron, that's all I was trying to say.

:)

Re: Regarding Civil Liberties

David Nick — Tue, 20 Dec 2005 14:36:36 -0000

Mike,

Don't go after Aaron by personally attacking him. He's a smart guy who is entitled to have his views just like you and me.

I know Aaron well enough to say that he is someone who can read, research, and formulate his own opinions and come to his own conclusions.

Saying that he is an "Alarmist" would not be accurate.

Re: Regarding Civil Liberties

David Nick — Tue, 20 Dec 2005 14:48:33 -0000

Aaron-

Take a look at a story that was published on NewsBuster.org's website:

(http://newsbusters.org/node/3298)

COURT SAYS U.S. SPY AGENCY CAN TAP OVERSEAS MESSAGES

By DAVID BURNHAM, SPECIAL TO THE NEW YORK TIMES (NYT) 1051 words Published: November 7, 1982

A Federal appeals court has ruled that the National Security Agency may lawfully intercept messages between United States citizens and people overseas, even if there is no cause to believe the Americans are foreign agents, and then provide summaries of these messages to the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

Because the National Security Agency is among the largest and most secretive intelligence agencies and because millions of electronic messages enter and leave the United States each day, lawyers familiar with the intelligence agency consider the decision to mark a significant increase in the legal authority of the Government to keep track of its citizens.

Reverses 1979 Ruling

The Oct. 21 decision of the United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit involves the Government's surveillance of a Michiganborn lawyer, Abdeen Jabara, who for many years has represented Arab-American citizens and alien residents in court. Some of his clients had been investigated by the F.B.I.

Mr. Jabara sued the F.B.I, and the National Security Agency, and in 1979 Federal District Judge Ralph M. Freeman ruled that the agency's acquisition of several of Mr. Jabara's overseas messages violated his Fourth Amendment right to be free of ''unreasonable searches and seizures.'' Last month's decision reverses that ruling.

In earlier court proceedings, the F.B.I. acknowledged that it then disseminated the information to 17 other law-enforcement or intelligence agencies and three foreign governments.

The opinion of the three-judge panel of the Court of Appeals held, ''The simple fact remains that the N.S.A. lawfully acquired Jabara's messages.''

The court ruled further that the lawyer's Fourth Amendment rights ''were not violated when summaries of his overseas telegraphic messages'' were furnished to the investigative bureau ''irrespective of whether there was reasonable cause to believe that he was a foreign agent."

That ruling tells me right there that the President was within his rights and I don't think he violated any laws.

What is in question is whether or not this action was within the purview of "Country at war".

I know that Congress authorized the President to use whatever means to prosecute the war on terror. As far as I've heard, that authorization has not been revoked.

Re: Regarding Civil Liberties

David Nick — Tue, 20 Dec 2005 14:53:57 -0000

You're right Aaron, the FBI does not have legal jurisdiction overseas, however, because of the CTC, and JSOC there is information sharing between domestic and international intelligence groups.

Is it perfect? No. But there atleast is the left hand talking to the right hand.

But that's not what's at issue here either.

I believe firmly that the President has acted within the best interests of our country. Until an investigation is brought forward, and it's proven that he acted illegally, I will continue to think the President is right.

Re: Regarding Civil Liberties

David Nick — Tue, 20 Dec 2005 15:11:14 -0000

A Short History of Impeachment
High crimes and misdemeanors

by Borgna Brunner
http://www.infoplease.com/spot/impeach.html

The right to impeach public officials is secured by the U.S. Constitution in Article I, Sections 2 and 3, which discuss the procedure, and in Article II, Section 4, which indicates the grounds for impeachment: "the President, Vice President, and all civil officers of the United States shall be removed from office on impeachment for, and conviction of, treason, bribery, or other high crimes and misdemeanors."

Removing an official from office requires two steps: (1) a formal accusation, or impeachment, by the House of Representatives, and (2) a trial and conviction by the Senate. Impeachment requires a majority vote of the House; conviction is more difficult, requiring a two-thirds vote by the Senate. The vice president presides over the Senate proceedings in the case of all officials except the president, whose trial is presided over by the chief justice of the Supreme Court. This is because the vice president can hardly be considered a disinterested partyâ€”if his or her boss is forced out of office he or she is next in line for the top job!

What Are "High Crimes and Misdemeanors?"

Bribery, perjury, and treason are among the least ambiguous reasons meriting impeachment, but the ocean of wrongdoing encompassed by the Constitution's stipulation of "high crimes and misdemeanors" is vast. Abuse of power and serious misconduct in office fit this category, but one act that is definitely not grounds for impeachment is partisan discord. Several impeachment cases have confused political animosity with genuine crimes. Since Congress, the vortex of partisanship, is responsible for indicting, trying, and convicting public officials, it is necessary for the legislative branch to temporarily cast aside its factional nature and adopt a judicial role.
---------------------------------------------

While you might get all the democrats to back this proceeding, and maybe some "neocons", getting a 2/3rds passed by the Senate, will be tough.

Re: Regarding Civil Liberties

David Nick — Tue, 20 Dec 2005 15:18:46 -0000

Well, if you listen to the way Democrats say it, the 2006 elections will show to the world that Republicans have failed us. LOL I for one have researched countless number of issues and articles for my own blog in which I have seen "RINO's" fail us in prosecuting the war on terror. A prime example is their efforts to obstruct illegal immigration and supporting blanket amnesty policies.

However, who will win, and who will lose depend greatly on what your main concerns are, what the party lines are touting, and whether or not you believe them.

I can tell you, my votes this next election season will depend highly on what my politicians say about Illegal Immigration, their views on the War on Terror, and if they believe spending our tax money on lame programs are more important than fiscal responsibility and not social programs or pork spending.

:)

Re: Regarding Civil Liberties

David Nick — Tue, 20 Dec 2005 15:39:31 -0000

But remember, coordinating an attack is great, but if you have no plan, no agenda, no way to offer what YOU want to do, then why bother running a campaign.

The Democrats have been great on "attacking" but have never once offered ANY ideas, and they certainly haven't provided us with any plans on improving security, preventing another 9/11, OR limiting government.

So, attack all you want, but if you can't offer any solutions, you're no better than anyone we already have in office.

:)

Re: Regarding Civil Liberties

David Nick — Tue, 20 Dec 2005 18:02:11 -0000

First of all Aaron,

As a computer guy, knowing what you know, you are already aware that the government created the internet. While they did give it civilians to run, don't you think THEY would still have a backdoor into what you download or do?

Perhaps that's the paranoid side of me, but to just toss that idea out that "Bush" would seek out your information because you downloaded Google Earth (which I've had for awhile LOL) it preposterous. Simply because I think George Bush could find other things more important and revealing than whether or not you like looking at satellite shots of Jamaican beaches LOL.

That doesn't put it into perspective for me Aaron, sorry. :)

Re: Admitted “Impeachable Offenses”

David Nick — Wed, 21 Dec 2005 15:44:54 -0000

I hate to beat a dead horse on this issue Aaron but Powerline Blog has an excellent article today that is relevant to your stress levels LOL

http://powerlineblog.com/archives/012623.php

(They even link to a chicago times reporters story about the legality, also another good article.)

Please don't burst any blood vessels :)

Re: Admitted “Impeachable Offenses”

David Nick — Wed, 21 Dec 2005 16:51:44 -0000

"Sorry, David. YOU get over it."

Hey Aaron? I just made the first post....the rest of them were between you and Mike LOL.

Re: Admitted “Impeachable Offenses”

David Nick — Wed, 21 Dec 2005 23:38:28 -0000

You two have been going at this for 5!!!! hours!!!! LOL

Man, all this drama, I need a beer....a root beer that is ;)

Re: Admitted “Impeachable Offenses”

David Nick — Thu, 22 Dec 2005 23:48:14 -0000

Have you guys read Ann Coulter's column on RealClearPolitics?

Here's the link: http://realclearpolitics.com/Commentary/com-12_...

And an excerpt I think is quite Ann Coulter:

"Which brings me to this week's scandal about No Such Agency spying on "Americans." I have difficulty ginning up much interest in this story inasmuch as I think the government should be spying on all Arabs, engaging in torture as a televised spectator sport, dropping daisy cutters wantonly throughout the Middle East, and sending liberals to Guantanamo."

HeH

Re: Open Mic Friday Today

David Nick — Fri, 23 Dec 2005 15:39:22 -0000

Topic Today:

Have a FANTASTIC Weekend!

Merry Christmas!
Happy Holidays!
Happy Hanukkah!
Happy Ramadan!
Happy Kwanza

Happy HanuRamaKwanzMas!

:)

Re: Open Mic Friday Today

David Nick — Fri, 23 Dec 2005 16:14:34 -0000

First and foremost we celebrate Christmas, the birth of Jesus Christ.

There are conflicting stories in the bible as to when exactly he was born, but that's a whole seperate debate.

We also celebrate the birth of the founder of our church. Joseph Smith. This year marks the 200th birthday of the founder. The church is also celebrating its 175th Anniversary.

But, first and foremost we are Christians, and this season is just as important to us as it is to all Christians alike :)

Re: 2005 NFL Lessons Learned

David Nick — Mon, 26 Dec 2005 22:22:12 -0000

Hey Aaron,

I am glad that your Christmas was a blessing this year. As for your talk about the NFL, I missed most of the season due to school, planning a wedding, etc, LOL But let's just say I agree with your analysis with 1 exception:

The only way Mike Tice is a good leader, is if you are comparing him to Dennis Green. He's above Denny, but not by much.

I think in the final analysis tho, the Vikings truly need to clean house, and not with just player talent.

That's my humble opinion, and I especially agree with your GB assesment.

Re: My new year (Open Mic)

David Nick — Fri, 30 Dec 2005 10:02:38 -0000

All very noble and quite achievable goals. My only suggestion or addition to that list (and I feel that it rightly should be #1) is to: Have a better relationship with God.

It doesn't have to be "My God" but yours will do nicely. I think (contrary to all the devisiveness they are one and the same being).

But seriously, when everyone talks about miracles, blessings, and good fortune, these are gifts that our Father in Heaven has blessed us with, and it is Him, that we should be thanking.

I don't mean to get "religion" on anyone here, but, honestly, everything we have is because He has given and it's Him we need to be greatful for.

The rest will come when we have turned over our burdens and trials to Him to take care of.

:) Be safe this Holiday Season!

Re: Open Mic Friday: New Years Eve Edition

David Nick — Fri, 30 Dec 2005 10:13:59 -0000

Hurry up and grant me the powers of publishing! LOL

My article might melt it's so hot! :)

Re: What NOT to do when you set out to travel this Holiday

David Nick — Fri, 30 Dec 2005 10:38:55 -0000

Especially when you have 210 passengers all looking to find a roll of duct tape and oblige the flight crew :)

Re: Martin Luther King, Jr. Day - The Dream Remains a Dream

David Nick — Mon, 16 Jan 2006 11:29:45 -0000

I almost wish my archives were still on the net. I remember that article last year. :)

Of course I thought that you and I both took some flack for our "Racist Whitey" viewpoints.

It's too bad that after all this time, we still cannot voice our opinions without someone calling you a racist for it.

Some progress.

Re: Iranian Buzz Reaching a Frenzy

David Nick — Tue, 17 Jan 2006 11:44:59 -0000

Call me an optomist you guys, but I don't see us launching a war against Iran, contrary to what CNN or any other liberal media would scare you into believing. That doesn't mean it won't occur, I'm simply saying that Bush could not afford nor survive launching a war this late in his political game. Now, if Iran does something to provoke a response, I'm certain we would aid whoever went in, like a UN force, or Israel, or maybe even Europe (which is highly unlikely since France pretty much likes to believe they are running the EU). But we won't be going after them like we went after Iraq.

Like I said, that's simply based on my own opinion, and what I've read.

But all it takes is Iran to launch a scud based nuke towards Israel or Jordan and all bets are off.

:)

Re: Government Intrusion

David Nick — Tue, 17 Jan 2006 13:13:00 -0000

Yeah Vinnie, I agree.....talk about a giant.....let down :)

All talk and no action Aaron, NDA or not ;) LOL

Isn't it fun working for the government Aaron? :D

Re: 5 Ways to Leverage Advance Posting

David Nick — Wed, 18 Jan 2006 17:40:15 -0000

Aaron, I'm not one to critique ANYONE's blog or how they run it, I just don't see writing advanced articles saves any time. Simply because by the time you post your article or rant, wouldn't the message be "dated"?

When I did a lot of my writing it was on current real time events. Or as real time as I could get them. If you have a stockpile of articles and just drop one into the "publish" folder, how relevant could that information or opinion be to what's on topic?

I realize that not all articles work that way, especially when it comes to other topics (unless you are starting to roll out your articles on DOS 6.1 and we're currently playing with Vista. :)

Sometimes, you're too busy for your own good. (Something my wife doesn't seem to think you can ever be too busy)

::sigh::

LOL

Re: Spying Continues: First Terrorists, Now You and I

David Nick — Fri, 20 Jan 2006 17:05:30 -0000

I for one always subscribe to the notion that "To fear your government" is a healthy perspective. Saying that, I do not ever think that just because the Government has the ability to do something, that they do so with "Angelic" notions or motivations.

Please... all people in the government are human, and therefore flawed by nature. Everyone has the potential to be abusive and corrupted. Especially when they work to attain power and wealth.

Saying that, I will add that the NSA has had the capabilities to "listen in" on whatever they wanted to since the agency was created. Where were you when that outfit started? And when was the last time we've heard anything negative about the NSA before this "domestic spying" business came to light?

I'm not going to argue about policy here, but, I will say that as far as Bush, and his Administration going after Google, they don't have any business sticking their nose into a piece of software to dig up potential criminal activity. That kind of action is reckless and takes us down a slippery slope into a socialist society, not a land of freedom, liberty, and opportunity.

Re: Score: Government 1 Eco-Terrorist Thugs 0

David Nick — Sat, 21 Jan 2006 19:50:03 -0000

"Posted by Aaron"?? LOL

Great article there! Glad you wrote on the subject and fully agree with my thoughts.

BTW, as per our conversation earlier offline, I'd be happy to help out, if I had some way to add articles on non-open mic fridays. It could still operate they way you have it currently, just that I could post the drafts prior to you publishing them. Otherwise it looks as if I'd have to email them to you and have you post them, which I won't mind doing either.

Thanks Aaron! Keep up the great work ;)

Re: Score: Government 1 Eco-Terrorist Thugs 0

David Nick — Sun, 22 Jan 2006 09:50:05 -0000

HeH! That's ok Aaron, I know yer busy, but I will make it a point to let ya know when I've published!

Thanks again!

Re: Now, Everyone can Contribute

David Nick — Tue, 24 Jan 2006 08:49:56 -0000

Thanks Aaron for sticking your neck out for us loyal readers :) Now, hopefully, we can put our writing talents where our mouths are ;)

Re: Sponsor Me for Blogonomics

David Nick — Wed, 25 Jan 2006 20:45:13 -0000

Sorry Aaron, I know you desire this trip, but if I can swing paying for a cruise to Cozumel and back, I'd like to be on it!

:)

Re: Super Bowl XL- Post your predictions

David Nick — Fri, 03 Feb 2006 15:04:00 -0000

I'm with Aaron but I'm going to say

Seahawks 35
Pittsburgh 14

Re: Super Bowl XL- Post your predictions

David Nick — Fri, 03 Feb 2006 18:57:32 -0000

The way I see it Jesse, and I'm not using any type of statistical foresight, or law of averages, but what I do know is that when teams make it to the big "game", you can throw out everything you know about these teams.

Look at any Superboal game of the past, and most of it is adrenaline driven, IE when the players get happy on the field, that doesn't always equate to a win. :)

It may not be the "gospel" but it's true.

Besides, I lived in Seattle for a few years, and I am biased for any team that comes from there.

HeH

(Yes, the cat's out of the bag)

Re: State Department Kooks Back Muslims in Cartoon Controversy

David Nick — Sat, 04 Feb 2006 11:01:56 -0000

Andy, you make some excellent points. What I'm trying to point out is even if Christians do have extremists, how many of them are willing to behead someone who has a contrary viewpoint? How many are willing to kill a film director because they made a movie about how Christians treat their women? The answer is a resounding zero.

We have seen plenty of Christian kooks and some would say that David Koresh was that extremist example, and yet, he never went out and killed anyone, just brainwashed them perhaps. It wasn't until out government went after them with haste that things got ugly and turned very deadly.

-Jim, I don't think "sucking up" to the muslim community is beneficial to our country, or diplomatic relations nor does that type of behaviour bode well for our country's freedoms. What this tells me is that our government is willing to appease radical fundamentalists when it suits them. Which in turn means that when the time comes, and our population has a major muslim voting population, anything we say, think, or do, will be turned on us simply because "Allah" forbids it. That's not me sounding paranoid, that is a definite possibility.

Secondly, while our country certainly has been a good example of respecting other groups of people and their beliefs, that doesn't mean that we cannot express our differences for purposes of either opening dialog, or ridicule. In doing so that doesn't mean those who are the subject of jokes or discussion have turned to violence to silence their critics.

In saying that, I also recognize that the history of this country is founded on the blood of many groups of people whom the government, or the powerful and wealthy have sought to eradicate for their ultimate purposes being either "settlement" or "riches" or what have you.

However, ultimately I think that our government should have stayed out of the entire situation. We weren't involved in it, and while individual citizens have every right to speak up in support of or disapproval of, I don't think it was wise to show the two-faced nature of politics and diplomacy. I truly feel it will harm us greatly in the future.

:)

Re: Super Bowl XL- Post your predictions

David Nick — Sun, 05 Feb 2006 23:06:54 -0000

Like I said guys, Steelers 21 Seattle 10

LOL

;)

Re: State Department Kooks Back Muslims in Cartoon Controversy

David Nick — Tue, 07 Feb 2006 13:45:00 -0000

A.J., I think it's a mistake to think that our soldiers are NOT fighting over there, that they are simply hanging out waiting for a chance to get "blown up at random".

I have a brother in law, just returned from Iraq whose mission was to lay out transport routes for supply runs. In doing his job, while he wasn't lobbing bullets at the insurgents, was still fighting the war. His unit, is one of the only units to come back to the U.S. without having any deaths.

Does that mean they didn't fight? No, on the contrary, his unit fought in the war just as much as a patrol unit fights insurgents.

The cartoon was not funny, I agree, but, you don't see Americans running around the countryside blowing up federal buildings, or burning flags do you?

Nor are they lobbying for censorship of its citizens in reform for pro-antiwar minorities.

Re: State Department Kooks Back Muslims in Cartoon Controversy

David Nick — Tue, 07 Feb 2006 19:29:18 -0000

A.J., Not to make it seem like I'm going after you, but what exactly IS a "conventional way"? Do you mean we're not using tanks, bullets, and bombs to fight wars? Do you mean we're not using ground troops to go after the insurgents? Exactly how do you infer? Because I can tell you that we are using all of our tools in the military arsenal to go after these terrorists.

As far as blaming Donald Rumsfield, come on, you can think better than what the liberals have been touting for "eons".

Donald Rumsfeld is no more to "blame for the war" than Harry Reid is. LOL

He is the Secretary of Defense, but if you want to use the "bad or faulty armor" excuse, then I think you need to go back to previous administrations. They are just to blame than the "token Rummy" guy.

Re: State Department Kooks Back Muslims in Cartoon Controversy

David Nick — Wed, 08 Feb 2006 16:29:53 -0000

You just contradicted yourself AJ. You said "Well, I donâ€™t see how previous administrations have anything to do with what is going on today when Republicans have controled Capitol Hill for the last half-decade." and then spewed all of that "canned" garbage about what everyone else said about Klinton during the "Kosovo" years.

You don't get to have it both ways. Either the past is relevant or it's not.

Secondly, you tried to justify Kosovo by saying we were "in and out, unlike Iraq" but your earlier arguement was "Iraq isn't even a conventional war" In otherwords "In and Out". Conventional warfare involves troops, bullets, tanks and bodies. Unconventional warfare is what we did in Kosovo: Bombed the hell out of them with "Carpet Bombing, Precision Aerial Strikes, without laying foot on the ground".

So please, when you make an arguement, participate in the "Blame Bush" bandwagon, atleast be either A) Consistent or B) Know your position and lay a valid arguement.

I don't pretend to know what everyone said, thought, or has done in previous years without research, but my research also doesn't include a list of canned quotes of he said/she said, from some other website.

Re: Is it just me?…

David Nick — Tue, 14 Feb 2006 12:39:54 -0000

Thanks Stacie!

I realize that benefits for even our legal immigrants need some work, but atleast we need to shed light and focus on them, and not cram benefits for people who are here ILLEGALLY, down our throats.

At the same time, you said "thank goodness for the border control" and I have to sarcastically add "what border control". Sure they've added more guards, sure they've added more patrols, but many of it still hasn't been effective enough to stave off the massive flow of illegals across our borders. They are still getting across.

And I am the type to keep harping on a subject until the issue is resolved, and then staying on top of it to make sure it doesn't fall to the wayside when controversy subsides.

:)

Re: A Car Worthy of the Technosailor label

David Nick — Wed, 15 Feb 2006 15:11:02 -0000

I like the Scion xA, but to each their own ;)

Re: A Car Worthy of the Technosailor label

David Nick — Wed, 15 Feb 2006 18:46:32 -0000

...admire another man's vision?

:)

Re: Passing on First Paid Blogging Gig

David Nick — Thu, 16 Feb 2006 11:19:24 -0000

DOH!

If I could get away with it (playing video games, then reviewing them, then blogging them) without my wife killing me, I could die happy! However, you need a gig that pays you better than $250/mo especially if you have to buy an xbox360, a ps3, etc....LOL

Ahhhh....if I simply had excess income I didn't know what to do with....

(prays to the mighty powerball gods)

Re: Perhaps I’m getting “Old Fashioned” for my Generation.

David Nick — Thu, 16 Feb 2006 17:17:29 -0000

HeH.

Stacie, you said: "Like abortion, it must be a personal decision, something that unless in the situation, shouldnâ€™t be commented on too harshly."

I didn't post this article to flame people's opinions.

I did post it to open a dialog with readers.

I think adoption is a personal choice, whether you're the serogate, or the biological mother. It's a tough spot to be in, and I recognize that having seen my sister, and friends make these difficult decisions for the welfare of their children.

That is not my reason for bringing this ad to light.

Don't you think that advertising to kids who, by the way are spending $30k+ for their University education (yes that's on the light estimate), is no less than pandering? Or even worse, attempting to take advantage of people who might be economically challenged?

Sure, not everyone who decides to sign up is economically challenged, but, I can bet you that waving the carrot (10K) in front of kids paying a huge amount for their education loans is like holding a bag of meth in front of a junkie.

You begin to go down a long dark alley when you make an offer of money to people who either are or will be in debt for a long period of time.

And if you think that's ok, then what's wrong with those college kids pimping themselves out for college funds? Or becoming drug dealers to pay off their loans?

I see brokerage of a woman's egg's, especially when strict/specific requirements are included, as no different than having sex for money, or selling drugs for profit.

Re: Is it just me?…

David Nick — Thu, 16 Feb 2006 22:01:01 -0000

Apparently it's OK to be in this country illegally, violate the law by sleeping in a high school and trying to pass yourself off as a kid (even when you're 22).

But nevermind that, George had his Kool-Aid and now I'm a racist!

Problem Solved, just find George to solve all the worlds' tough issues of the day!

Re: Is it just me?…

David Nick — Thu, 16 Feb 2006 22:01:26 -0000

(P.S. Thanks for the support guys LOL)

Re: Pondering Self Employment

David Nick — Thu, 16 Feb 2006 22:09:39 -0000

Well having been a post-dot-com'r, I would proceed with caution. While risk vs reward should always be your calculation, it never hurts to be adequately prepared for the worse-case scenerios. In otherwords, have a modest nest egg to fall back on in a pinch. That being said, and concerns figured out, go for it. Taking people up on opportunities leads to more doors opened.

:)

Good luck

Re: Perhaps I’m getting “Old Fashioned” for my Generation.

David Nick — Thu, 16 Feb 2006 22:16:06 -0000

Aaron, because interest free credit cards and debt is a result of poor fiscal education on either their parents, or themselves. While consuming a massive amount of debt is reckless and can lead to huge problems down the road, it's not bartering lives.

I also realize that under 29 doesn't mean college. I'm 33 and going to college LOL. However, advertising in a student newspaper means that you are selecting a specific target audience. Sure professors read it, sure the public reads it, but the primary readership IS college kids.

I think as far as all dark matter subjects go, this one is certainly just as valid for a topic of discussion as is MBNA's latest interest free credit card gimmick.

:)

Re: Is it just me?…

David Nick — Fri, 17 Feb 2006 09:17:33 -0000

Georgey Georgey Georgey,

It's not racist to assume that if you go to great lengths to hide who you are, where you came from, that perhaps you also hide other things as well.

That's not racism, that's human nature.

And just because he was born in a "shitty" place doesn't also mean that he can violate laws because "he had a rough life and we just need to understand his condition".

That too is ridiculous.

And George? Who said I was a Republican?

Re: When Stats Become Your God

David Nick — Fri, 17 Feb 2006 19:38:29 -0000

I think it's also important to note that at some point, a blogger who becomes an "A-Lister" ceases to be a blogger.

I say that simply because some of those people become media celebs, have book deals, and their appointment books get so filled with so many other tasks that they cease to focus on their blogs, and work on the things which thrust them into the spotlight and create revenue streams in other avenues.

I used Hugh Hewitt as a prime example.

He is a small exception to the norm of a daily blogger down in the rank and file, but, you notice that his situation is not unique to the "A-Listers".

Not to say there is anything wrong with capitalizing on fame, but when do you cease to be a blogger at that point and cross over to MSM Journalist?

Re: Just When You Thought Political Campaign Sites Were Boring

David Nick — Fri, 17 Feb 2006 19:40:49 -0000

And why does he say it A.J.? Care to speculate further?

Re: Just When You Thought Political Campaign Sites Were Boring

David Nick — Mon, 20 Feb 2006 19:04:45 -0000

Wow Aaron, did you advertise or was it a "stumble"?

Kudos!

As for Murtha/Harris, we all know about the "No Armor/Poorly Equipped" military. We also know that their has been, and continues to be a recruitment problem. When in war, it's even more difficult to recruit because people realize that if they sign up during wartime, guess what?! You're going to war! So that tends to retard recruitment efforts.

Stating that, I am a cynic when it comes to the whole "Our military is broken" campaigns. First of all, no one running campaigns has ever said "I will fix what's broken in the Armed Forces" and followed through. No matter what the hype has been. Secondly, the Democrats time and time again have been against military and defense spending since Pre-Reagan times. That's a statistical fact.

So even if you have a military background, and you run on a campaign that "I'll fix it" AND you're a democrat, I'd be highly suspicious.

But that's just me.

Re: Just When You Thought Political Campaign Sites Were Boring

David Nick — Mon, 20 Feb 2006 19:37:51 -0000

"I may not agree with Democrats in the area of domestic issues but they may have a better plan when it comes to the military. "

Sorry Aaron, I have never seen a Democrat plan on Military, Defense, unless it's in regards to cutting spending in lieu of other socialist programs. That's not partisan, that's the truth.

I will give you that as of late, Republicans consistently keep shooting themselves in the foot (No pun intended), but, most conservatives, be them Republicans or not are for Defense, Pro-Military, and want to see security in our own Borders.

I think I posted here a letter Norm Coleman sent to me in regards to his stance against border control, and he's a Republican.

So not everyone tows the party line in ideology.

I don't think I am being unfair with my characterization of Democrats. If they had a plan for better security/better defense I am all ears, but they've been far too focused on hating/blaming Bush to present a clear plan. To me, that's the same as having no plan.

Re: Just When You Thought Political Campaign Sites Were Boring

David Nick — Mon, 20 Feb 2006 21:16:45 -0000

I'll agree with the One Party system Aaron. Amen to that LOL

I think Murtha was the pawn the Dems needed to stick it to Bush, one more time. I felt they used Murtha to push forth their Anti-Bush/Iraq campaign and Murtha didn't say no. That's the problem more than anything is the willingness to do whatever it takes to get camera time no matter the cost. And either fortunately, or unfortunately, people saw it for what it was.

P-r-o-p-a-g-a-n-d-a

Even if Murtha did have a plan. It would have been the same if a RINO like McCain said it.

As for the Rep/Dem power trip A.J. alluded too, it doesn't matter which party is in play: They both do it.

The bad result of our political system is that it makes things really hard when you want to push a candidate who doesn't really like either party. But if you want to win an election you have to sleep with the devil.

:(

Re: Open Dialog: How can we change a historical trend?

David Nick — Tue, 21 Feb 2006 19:30:14 -0000

A.J., you make a couple of interesting points.

1) You said: "But the Mexico situation is out of control, but thereâ€™s really no way to solve it."

That's defeatist. There are solutions to the crisis, but you have to take an open honest look at them. Most aren't willing to do that yet, but the momentum IS building

2) You also said: "I guess my point is if people are not willing to stand up and make something of their country, who are we to step in and â€œhelpâ€ them or force them?"

If we don't step in sooner, rather than later, it will simply cost us more. More money, more resources, more red tape. To be proactive is beneficial for us as well as them.

Re: Buying Blogs to Flip

David Nick — Wed, 22 Feb 2006 15:08:38 -0000

Aaron I think it's a great idea. If for anything else, certainly it's a valuable learning experience on what does and doesn't sell. And if it churns a profit which allows your idea to grow and expand, you can't go wrong :)

The trick of course is to find those blogs with a good niche, and a future.

:)

Re: Open Dialog: How can we change a historical trend?

David Nick — Wed, 22 Feb 2006 15:13:58 -0000

Getting real is knowing we have a President who believes in a unitary executive

Ummm....the executive branch is already "unitary". There is 1 guy at the top

uni-tary-
adj.
1 of a unit or units
2 of, based on, or characterized by unity
3 having the nature of or used as a unit

Just a clarification A.J.

:)

Re: Open Dialog: How can we change a historical trend?

David Nick — Wed, 22 Feb 2006 15:51:13 -0000

A.J., I know you're not stupid, but you do know about our Government's series of Checks & Balances right?

Supreme Court can check the Legislative & Executive branches of gov't

Congress can check the Supreme Court & Executive branches

Executive branch can check Congress & Supreme Court branches

I realize that you likely are aware of that. With saying that, even if Bush "thinks" he's king, don't you believe that the Supreme Court, and ESPECIALLY the Congress would act quick to put him into place if he got out of line?

No President believes they are defacto "King" when elected. While they can act on behalf of the country, we have granted laws to enable the President to act on the best interests of Americans.

Your statement about them thinking they're "Kings" is just wrong.

Re: The Problems with Windows Vista is Windows

David Nick — Mon, 27 Feb 2006 20:51:33 -0000

I've had the "priviledge" of playing with Vista. The one interesting aspect was that we were using Vista 64 on a 64bit proc, and it really blew chunks. :(

However, if any of you have used Vista, or had access to it, it's not too disimilar from Mac's OS "X" platform. With the exception that it doesn't have a Unix backbone. :( One can hope. LOL

Re: Countdown to 1000

David Nick — Tue, 28 Feb 2006 21:10:18 -0000

I wonder if I can post anything new that would win me that 1000 mark? ;) LOL

Re: One Thousand Posts Later

David Nick — Thu, 02 Mar 2006 06:40:16 -0000

I think hitting 1,000 is a wonderful achievement. Congrats Aaron! May you have 1,000 more. :)

Re: Truth IS Stranger Than Fiction

David Nick — Sat, 04 Mar 2006 08:48:55 -0000

Thanks Carol for your insight. :)

I do not know ALL the circumstances that surround the case.

Mainly the conviction/sentencing.

I know "Mack" less and less, and I am not certain he'd appreciate me pulling him off to the side, especially when my wife says "You're not supposed to know about this".

Hiding this issue under the rug is a terrible idea in my opinion, half this world's problems would be better dealt with if everyone would just lay all their cards on the table and deal with the issues head on.

We all don't work that way however. :(

I think for now I need to do some serious soul searching about how best to handle this, but I need to know who else knows and for how long.

Re: Truth IS Stranger Than Fiction

David Nick — Mon, 06 Mar 2006 23:21:55 -0000

I don't have kids, although I have raised children before. (long story). So I understand parenting and the need to protect children. If that's what "yer" getting at.

Secondly, I have discussed this with my wife. She feels that talking to other people about this is betraying the confidence of her sister in law. (I know, that didn't make sense to me either)

So, I have not brought the topic back up with her, I will wait for a later time.

I am not alright with this whole situation. And even if my wife accepted him and chalked it up to a "that was in the past" belief, I cannot.

I want to give a person a chance, but when you have been convicted of a serious offense, how much of a shot do you have to give someone?

Re: Iraq-American War: 2003-2006

David Nick — Tue, 14 Mar 2006 13:12:40 -0000

Aaron -

I wonder how much of this is coming on the heels of a new book being published. It basically stated that if the Pentagon and Centcom would have listened to their field commanders on the ground in the early days of the Iraq war and realized what was happening instead of ignoring them by playing armchair quarterback in the states we would have spent less time fighting this war and the insurgency.

Re: Iraq-American War: 2003-2006

David Nick — Tue, 14 Mar 2006 13:23:03 -0000

By the way the book is called "Cobra II". You can see the info about it on Amazon here

Re: Iraq-American War: 2003-2006

David Nick — Tue, 14 Mar 2006 18:35:49 -0000

Oh, sorry Aaron, I didn't read the sign hanging over the door that said "Cynicism Not Wanted, Nor Allowed"

:(

::I knew I should have cleaned my glasses this morning...::

Re: Moodlerooms Meetup

David Nick — Thu, 16 Mar 2006 20:51:43 -0000

If by "Thinking Dirty" you meant cavities, fillings, and root canals, then by all means....shame on me :D

I've had plenty o' Dentists lately, and I can sympathize with ya.

Seems they all go to thesame school of cruelty and poor chair-side manners.

Re: Moodlerooms Meetup

David Nick — Fri, 17 Mar 2006 19:01:13 -0000

Jesse-

You think that's bad, I went in to see a dentist, I was about 13. It was the first time going in for a root canal. Seems I had a pretty bad molar that needed some "fixin'". Long story short, the guy got in there, cleaned everything out, filled it in, patched me up, shipped me home. 6 hours later AFTER the novocaine wore off, seems that he somehow FORGOT to take ALL of the nerve ending out.

Yeah, screaming was only part of my ride back in to see the "quack".

Golden Rule #1: If EVER you go in for a root canal... be sure the dentist removes ALL of the nerve endings. Then, once he's completed his torture...you are free to harm him :)

Re: Flat on My Back

David Nick — Thu, 23 Mar 2006 07:12:01 -0000

Funny....I've been in bed for the past several days myself with "something".... Saturday I came home from a 10 and a half hour shift, threw up some blood, been in bed since Tuesday morning...currently it just seems to be a sore throat, and a slight cough but otherwise fine....

You didn't get it from me either LOL

Re: Published by O’Reilly

David Nick — Fri, 24 Mar 2006 16:59:36 -0000

Congrats Aaron! Better late than never :)

Re: Paypal Goes Mobile

David Nick — Fri, 24 Mar 2006 17:02:58 -0000

Cool! Can't wait to see retailers set up pay by paypal! W00taka!

Re: My Area is So Boring

David Nick — Sun, 26 Mar 2006 22:02:59 -0000

I certainly feel for ya. In no less than 5 miles from my house there are well over 150 different places to eat. Seeing as this is a new area for me, I have yet to try them all. Of course, some of those are of your McDonald's, Burger King, Wendy's, Taco Bell, Arby's variety, but, most of them are unique, and I can have anything from mexican, chinese, mongolian, italian, greek, or american. :) I live in a good town and it's not even a major metropolitan area. :)

Re: My Area is So Boring

David Nick — Sun, 26 Mar 2006 22:04:54 -0000

To add to that, I am only disappointed that there isn't any place here to listen to live jazz, or live music of any kind other than your country, or bang your head metal LOL. College towns, go figure :)

Re: Tens of Thousands in the Streets

David Nick — Mon, 27 Mar 2006 15:46:23 -0000

A.J., from a business owners perspective, you are a wet dream and I say that with all the love and kindness I can. :)

From a legal and security perspective your observations are totally pointless and off the mark.

I could care one iota if an illegal mexican worker busts his ass more so than a fat white trash woman with a "Proud to be American" bumper sticker on her beat up Pontiac 6000. (since we're stereotyping here) HE'S STILL A FRICKEN ILLEGAL IMMIGRANT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Two wrongs don't make a right! No matter which side you're on.

:D

Re: My Area is So Boring

David Nick — Mon, 27 Mar 2006 15:48:52 -0000

San Fran also has this place which makes philly cheese steak sandwiches on authentic sour dough bread!

YUM!

Re: Quote of the Day

David Nick — Mon, 27 Mar 2006 15:50:52 -0000

I get the feeling that we're getting back to prohibition again.....

If it isn't with smoking, the next target will be booze again....

And they say history doesn't repeat itself LOL

Re: Tens of Thousands in the Streets

David Nick — Tue, 28 Mar 2006 06:59:23 -0000

A.J., what part of "illegal" do you not understand? I see it plainly, as black and white. Legal = right, ok, and illegal = wrong, immoral, unethical, outlaw.

Webster's defines legal and illegal this way:

le-gal
adj.
1 of, created by, based upon, or authorized by law
2 in conformity with the positive rules of law; permitted by law "a legal act"
3 that can be enforced in a court of law !legal rights"
4 of or applicable to lawyers !legal ethics"
5 in terms of the law !a legal offense"

il-le-gal
prohibited by law; against the law; unlawful; illicit; also, not authorized or sanctioned, as by rules
n.
an alien who has entered a country illegally

To address your concerns: "Sean Hannity is spewing stuff like they are violating the sanctity of this country or some bullcrap as if they are all criminals."

First of all, I don't care what Sean Hannity says, get your own information. Secondly, they are all criminals. If you enter into this country illegally, YOU ARE A CRIMINAL. And thus, should be treated accordingly. If you break a law, any law, you are a criminal.

Secondly, you said: "I’m am all for getting tough on illegal immigration, but those people just want a better life. Can you blame them? They are not the enemy."

Yes, I can blame them, yes, they are the enemy.

Why? if they want a better life, than they can affect change in their own country instead of fleeing it. I've argued countless times about their government's situation, their plight, etc, and I have yet to find someone who can sway my information about it.

Secondly, illegal immigration is costing you and me. Not just money, I could care less if the government is living high off the taxes that their working pays them. Paying taxes in our country is NOT cause to forgive illegal activity.

Hell, you can avoid federal tax evasion charges as a drug dealer if you pay taxes on the money you make during the commission of a felony (dealing, importing, trafficking narcotics) that doesn't make it legal. It just means you are paying the government so they can't come after you for tax evasion.

Securing our borders is only 1 step to stemming to huge tidal wave of illegal immigration. You must ALSO DEPORT THOSE who are still in our country.

If they want to become citizens, then they MUST GO THROUGH THE SYSTEM just like everyone else who has come here LEGALLY.

No exceptions.

Re: Crossroads in American History

David Nick — Tue, 28 Mar 2006 23:41:26 -0000

I believe what I'm about to say is somewhat off topic, but I want to shed some light on a comment AJ said...

He said: "Once Bush is out, or if the balance of power shifts I think it will be very refreshing."

Now it's truly amazing how much people on the left blame Bush for the condition the world is in. Illegal immigration, nuclear programs in north korea or iran, Van Gogh's murder in Denmark, Cartoons of Mohammad, are no more Bush's fault, than global warming is, yet because he likely outspent any liberal president in history (next to FDR mind you) he's a target.

Oh I know, you'll say AJ that it's because "Bush lied, Iraqi terrorists died", but, it's simply amazing how exhausted you sound of 1 guy.

If Bush will be blamed for anything in my book, it will be because he failed to secure our borders, stem the flow of illegals and OTM's into this country, rather than fighting a war against Iraq, or Al Qaeda, or Afghanistan. Which I simply believe we should have done in '91 with Bush Sr.

But, taking a step back, trying to relate to my brother across the aisle...

atleast now, you can understand our frustrations with having an impeached president in office, and wanting him to hurry up and end his lame duck term.

LOL

:)

Re: An Important Week

David Nick — Wed, 29 Mar 2006 11:46:27 -0000

Congrats Aaron!

I wish the two of you success in the healing process. Marriage isn't easy. This is my second time around, and I can certainly say, it doesn't get any easier. Work, commitment, communication. That's what marriage is. Love is a luxury sometimes.

:)

Re: Crossroads in American History

David Nick — Wed, 29 Mar 2006 19:36:20 -0000

If you want to see an interesting article about illegal immigration protests then you have to read this. Certainly very eye opening...

Re: Your Honor, I Rest My Case.

David Nick — Wed, 12 Apr 2006 18:18:31 -0000

[Comment ID #5185 Will Be Quoted Here]

Cary? Or Whomever? Do you care to characterize what is taking place here? While 1 illegal committing a serious felony doesn't automatically make all the other illegals murders, it sure doesn't make them law abiding Ward Cleavers now does it? My generalization was stated with a disclaimer, buck up and take it with your bitter little pill.

Re: Is it just me?…

David Nick — Thu, 13 Apr 2006 15:26:03 -0000

Thanks Jarret for your insight. I'm happy to hear that none of your roomates were seriously hurt. This guy was a creep from the word go and needed to be deported before this happened. Now that it has, I hope that this case will garner more serious attention as it is a good case study into tighter illegal immigration/undocumented worker laws.

Re: Happy Easter

David Nick — Sat, 15 Apr 2006 15:19:20 -0000

Happy Easter to you too Stacie!

Your blog has inspired me to come out of the closet and share something with everyone...

A while back in an email, I disclosed to Aaron that I am a Mormon. He asked me a question that I thought was certainly fair he said, "Do you guys believe in Jesus Christ?". I told him very much so.

The reason I brought it up was that one of his random "quotes of wisdom" had an authority from our church on it and I was surprised to see it.

I'm getting off topic, but I wanted to start somewhere ;)

Easter for my church is a HUGE moment for us simply because we believe that Jesus is still very much alive and continues to perform miracles daily.

If you ever happen into one of my church buildings, or even our Temples, you will notice that we do not display a cross. I have pondered that and asked, to which I am told that for many other Christian sects, they choose to wear the cross to symbolize Christ's suffering and death during his crucifixion. We choose to focus on his miracle after his resurrection.

Perhaps you can look at that as a "glass is half full" mentality, but I like to believe that he truly has risen, he is alive to this day, and continues to bless those who truly follow Him.

Happy Easter to everyone!

:)

Re: Happy Easter

David Nick — Sun, 16 Apr 2006 22:27:47 -0000

I get your meaning Aaron, and I wasn't trying to say we neglect the fact that he died for our sins, but we do not dwell upon it, or carry it with us because I think many people focus too much on his death, and not on the fact that he lives. That's all :)

Re: Technosailor Goes to Mexico Powered by Qumana

David Nick — Thu, 20 Apr 2006 00:29:20 -0000

Does this mean you will have a prime opportunity to do some investigative "blogging" on the "other side of an illegal immigrants life"?

;)

Just had to ask.

Congrat Aaron, have fun, and try not to drink the water ok?

Re: Digital Camera Shopping

David Nick — Thu, 20 Apr 2006 00:35:38 -0000

Personally Aaron, I don't swear by anything. I have an old HP Photosmart C200 (1.3 megapixel) and it still works!

I do like Olympus 35mm SLR cameras, and so I can agree with Jesse that they atleast make good ones.

Rule of thumb tho: If you're going to buy a serious digital (one that takes good shots) go with companies who've been in the old school film business first. They have the most experience in the camera biz and I would trust any of them over some new-tech not known outfit. Nikkon, Olympus, Minolta, Polaroid, Kodak, etc.

Just my two cents. :)

Re: A New Way to Look at Bloggers: Referential or Experiential

David Nick — Thu, 20 Apr 2006 00:46:25 -0000

Yup, what Jesse said. I am somewhere in between. I like to use links as a basis of my article, but then I dig deep (sometimes it's a shallow well) an offer my insight and personal perspective on it. I think that's a good mark of a decent blogger. When I read other bloggers, I want to see what they're talking about, and then I want to hear their opinions and arguements about it. That makes for a good informative dialog between bloggers and readers.

But what the hell do I know? I am an amateur LOL

Re: Profanity or Not? HELP!!!!!

David Nick — Thu, 20 Apr 2006 15:54:58 -0000

You have a point Travis. I could simply acquiesce, quietly keeping my vulgarity from her ear shot. Things would be normal, my wife could therefore go on and think her hubby is a man of compromise.

Does it then make me a heel if I decide that I must have a small breakdown in etiquette and toss a couple of "D" or "H" bombs out there?

Don't kid yourself, she's a great woman and I would never put down her style of beliefs despite me throwing it under the blog-o-scope for extensive examination.

Is it that selfish of me to have my personal beliefs and use them?

Marriage after all is about losing the "self" interests and embracing the "we" interests, but does that mean giving up your identity?

Re: How Much Should I Blog?

David Nick — Fri, 09 Jun 2006 20:33:11 -0000

Well Aaron, whatever you do it's working isn't it? It's atleast my hope to post frequently as opposed to the quantity of posts. I know that sounds contradictory, but I think as long as the content is recent and fresh, your readership shouldn't suffer too much (famous last words).

:)

Re: The Problems with Windows Vista is Windows

David Nick — Wed, 28 Feb 2007 20:00:58 -0000

If you have to install vista, you've failed the test my young padawan learner

Re: The Problems with Windows Vista is Windows

David Nick — Mon, 05 Mar 2007 23:44:14 -0000

Say RyanDigitalArtist?

If all we had in this country to drive were Ford Escorts or Yugo's and you didn't own a Yugo because it wasn't well known, so Escorts were your thing, and then because of the lack of diversity you were forced to endure malfunctions, driving along at highway speeds when suddenly your car craps out on you, and each 5 years you waited for a new version of an escort only to see the same damn thing happen....tell me...how long you'd defend Ford because their last Escort had the same problems and it only took them 5 years to work the kinks out?

Seems to me your are defending the indefensible. There is no reason to release Vista when it's obviously flawed while they have XP and in its current state seems to work. Why not focus on fixing the problems and security with the current one rather than force us to swallow yet another mega-blunder?

Strange eh?

Re: The Problems with Windows Vista is Windows

David Nick — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 00:20:26 -0000

ROFLMAO!

you are an immature child, no matter your age, and i pitty you. this is my last comment, im tired of the lack of intelligent debate…

So intelligent debate is when everyone just complies with what you say and we all go along to get along?

Who's being absurd now?