tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-40471344865785672992024-03-13T13:11:29.197-04:00"The 'Right' Solutions" by Christopher CanarelliWelcome to "The 'Right' Solutions!" Since May of 2010, this is the place on the web where you can find expert analysis of current politics, leadership theory, education issues and media issues; from bias, to reaction of, to analysis of various articles. From time to time, I will also write about background and plot information from my yet-to-be-published "political thriller-meets-coming of age" novel titled "The Calling to Lead." Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09982525004378577070noreply@blogger.comBlogger763125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4047134486578567299.post-7361423330020770092014-09-20T23:33:00.001-04:002014-09-20T23:33:10.477-04:00Driving the Left Crazy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-garJXLsxjdM/VB5DpGHDd5I/AAAAAAAAB-s/rp5uRg8LqgQ/s1600/NYC-Met%2BMuseum%2Bnew%2Bfountain%2B3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-garJXLsxjdM/VB5DpGHDd5I/AAAAAAAAB-s/rp5uRg8LqgQ/s1600/NYC-Met%2BMuseum%2Bnew%2Bfountain%2B3.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
For the past two years, the Metropolitan Museum of Art has been working on <a href="http://www.metmuseum.org/about-the-museum/press-room/news/2012/plaza-renovation-plans">renovating the plaza</a> in front of the museum along it's 6 block facade on 5th Avenue. This month, the <a href="http://www.metmuseum.org/visit/plan-your-visit/plaza">new plaza opened</a> (pictured above).<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
And with the opening comes a bit of <a href="http://www.wnyc.org/story/do-you-mets-new-fountains-how-about-its-politics/">controversy</a>. <br />
<br />
Footing the $65 million bill to redeisgn plaza is Met board member David H. Koch; the same businessman the left loves to demonize because he in addition to his philanthropy, he gives to many conservative causes and candidates. <br />
<br />
As one walks up and down Fifth Avenue, they see this: <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sC7pZ_EAkpM/VB5F-A-GxmI/AAAAAAAAB-4/RbmmEQhs94w/s1600/David%2BKoch%2Bplaza.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sC7pZ_EAkpM/VB5F-A-GxmI/AAAAAAAAB-4/RbmmEQhs94w/s1600/David%2BKoch%2Bplaza.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I love watching the left flip out about this non-story and find it rather telling they can't give a man credit for his philanthropy. Happy to see his name emblazoned in the plaza and will be glad to see it every time I walk by! <br />
<br />Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09982525004378577070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4047134486578567299.post-71969216653693789052014-09-17T00:51:00.000-04:002014-09-17T00:51:07.297-04:00A Visit to the National September 11th Museum<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AfpRrS-FUlk/VBkMYNmrwiI/AAAAAAAAB-c/HQ9A1sERPcA/s1600/171.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AfpRrS-FUlk/VBkMYNmrwiI/AAAAAAAAB-c/HQ9A1sERPcA/s1600/171.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
We are almost a week past the 13th Anniversary of the attacks of September 11th, 2001. Like every year, it's a solemn day, we <a href="http://the-right-solutions.blogspot.com/2011/09/10-years-since.html">reflect upon that day</a>, think about <a href="http://the-right-solutions.blogspot.com/2012/09/september-11-eleven-years-later.html">where we were</a> and also say a prayer for those who were lost, as well as those who have stepped up to defend the United States by wearing the uniform. <br />
<br />
For those of you who haven't been to New York City recently, the development of the World Trade Center has made great strides and progress. The <a href="http://the-right-solutions.blogspot.com/2011/10/visiting-national-september-11th.html">National September 11th Memorial</a> opened in 2011 on the 10th Anniversary, One World Trade Center will be occupied by the end of the year and the National September 11th Museum has opened. It was a priority to visit as soon as I could after it opened, and I got that chance on July 1, with a close friend of mine who had served in the military in response to the attacks of September 11th. <br />
<br />
You enter the museum pavilion on the memorial plaza and after going through airport style security (yes, body scanners), you begin your descent down a series of ramps and escalators to the bedrock; 7 floors below ground. <br />
<br />
As you begin your descent, you are shown pictures of people's reactions on that day, along with audio stories of where people were on 9-11. It is a very haunting experience that gave me chills.<br />
<br />
After passing through that entry exhibit, you are about three stories above the cavernous memorial hall (pictured above) where you gaze upon the Last Column - called that because it was the final piece of World Trade Center steel removed from the ground; bringing an early end to the cleanup of Ground Zero. It stands tall in front of the exposed slurry wall, (aka bathtub) which held back the Hudson River. After passing by some pictures and the mangled steel where the planes impacted, you descend closer to the bedrock, passing directly next to the Survivors' Stairs. <br />
<br />
On the bedrock level are the main exhibits - the mangled firetruck, the destroyed elevator motor, the exposed foundations of the Twin Towers, the bedrock and various cultural depictions. From there the content gets quite emotional. Located under the footprint of the South Tower, In Memoriam gives biographies, pictures and obituaries of the nearly 3000 souls who were lost on that day, there is an area behind a wall, which is the repository for the remains thar are either unidentified or continue to be found. <br />
<br />
Located under the footprint of the North Tower, most importantly, is the main exhibit - the history, recounting, reasons and reactions to that day. Many of the collections cause emotions to come up and it produced a few tears from us, as a result of the audio, the visual captures, the missing signs and the various items left behind on that day. The 9-11 cross and the behind glass composites of the collapse are also in this area. <br />
<br />
We spent over 3 hours in the National September 11th Museum, exploring, reading, recalling, reflecting and even crying. I knew it was going to be a punch in the gut to go, and it definitely was. That said, I highly recommend a visit. Those who built and organized this museum did an amazing job and it is a beautiful remembrance of those who died on that day, while also reminding museum goers to never forget what happened in America on September 11, 2001. <br />
<br />Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09982525004378577070noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4047134486578567299.post-59290923528868569762014-09-17T00:18:00.000-04:002014-09-17T00:18:04.364-04:00Is the Sun Setting on Atlantic City? <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RC1u03fQhIw/VBj8ZmP1YHI/AAAAAAAAB-M/3Co_0Tj9qNQ/s1600/146.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RC1u03fQhIw/VBj8ZmP1YHI/AAAAAAAAB-M/3Co_0Tj9qNQ/s1600/146.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Atlantic City, New Jersey has <a href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/news/post-nation/wp/2014/09/02/atlantic-citys-decline-continues-as-revel-showboat-close-up-shop/">been in the news</a> lately. <br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
The once center of the gambling world on the east coast has been suffering on hard times lately. This year, in 2014, four casinos have shuttered, including the much heralded <a href="http://online.wsj.com/articles/atlantic-city-s-revel-casino-to-close-in-september-1407850347">Revel</a>, which was supposed to be the force to return Atlantic City to stardom. And there could be a <a href="http://www.nj.com/south/index.ssf/2014/09/trump_taj_mahal_employees_issued_layoff_notices_ahead_of_possible_november_closure.html">fifth closure</a>. Conventional thinking, at least what those in the media are trying to say, is that "Atlantic City can't handle the out-of-state competition," "The North Jersey politicans are trying to kill Atlantic City," "there's no customer base left." While all of these hold a bit of truth they are missing the big picture of this downturn - too narrow a focus on casinos and casino development.<br />
<br />
Looking a little west of New Jersey to Las Vegas, we saw the reinvention of the desert resort town in the 1990s - resorts grew bigger, the buildings themselves became tourist attractions and attractions that were alternates to the casinos were set up to attract people like me - the non-gamblers. Today in Las Vegas, you can see a Broadway and Disney quality show, marvel at the architecture of a resort, dine in some great restaurants and do some shopping that comes pretty darn close to Fifth Avenue and Rodeo Drive!<br />
<br />
Atlantic City did make a few attempts - Showboat had a very large bowling alley, Tropicana had an indoor amusement park called Tivoli Pier, Harrah's and Trump Castle (now the Golden Nugget) attempted to make use of their marina location, and the casinos did attract rather large acts to the hotels and to Convention Hall (now Boardwalk Hall). The casino executives disavowed many of these projects; closing them down and converting them to more casino space. As the gamblers left, the acts went from A list to B list and the non-gamblers were left with little to do. This overlooking of the non-gambler is especially sad because Atlantic City has something that Las Vegas does not - a beach and the longest boardwalk in the world. <br />
<br />
Casinos started to realize their wrongs, and while Borgata and Tropicana have been successful in building attractions for the non-gambler and some of the Boardwalk hotels opened beach bars, it seemed to be too little too late, and the bad decisions of the past 30 years were coming home to roost. The Pier at Caesars is now a ghost town on the second floor, the new convention center has no room for expansion, Revel could not keep a customer base while alienating the current Atlantic City customer base, unemployment and crime are a much higher and the crowds just aren't there. <br />
<br />
Is Atlantic City dead? <br />
<br />
As it was in my lifetime, focusing on casinos alone, it's time to play taps. It's time to accept it. <br />
<br />
Atlantic City must search for atlernate source of income and investment, if that happens, I believe we can see a rebirth of the city by the sea. Richard Stockton College and Atlantic County Community College should take a lead and build campuses in Atlantic City - with residence halls! Students and faculty/staff will bring in some business - this has helped New Jersey cities like New Brunswick, Long Branch and Jersey City. Expand the medical center - it is already a Level II Trauma Center, the only one in the region - doctors, nurses, hospital staff and vistors will also bring in some much needed business. Expand the convention center or just build a new one - that way, Atlantic City can better compete with moderate-sized cities like Indianapolis, Pittsburgh and Charlotte - more hotels will need to be built and conventioneers will want to eat in new restaurants. Expand the shopping and dining - the Walk is already seeing an expansion, and the marina district is prime real estate to utilize its waterfront with shops, bars and restaurants in the same way that San Antonio has done, as well as Baltimore, Miami and Tampa.<br />
<br />
My ideas may seem a tad "pie in the sky," but with a little cooperation and acceptance of the "death of casino-centered Atlantic City" this city could be on the way to its rebirth and can return to destination status. Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09982525004378577070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4047134486578567299.post-56765102197589339702014-07-28T21:11:00.000-04:002014-07-28T21:12:08.629-04:00Favorite Brush With Fame of 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Vv0cXYutdjU/U9bsM5__LOI/AAAAAAAAB9c/LHouG467xnY/s1600/2014+-+Anna+Kooiman.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Vv0cXYutdjU/U9bsM5__LOI/AAAAAAAAB9c/LHouG467xnY/s1600/2014+-+Anna+Kooiman.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
As I said earlier, 2014 has been quite the year of Brushes With Fame, but my favorite so far has to be Fox News' Anna Kooiman.<br />
<br />
The Fox and Friends weekend host, she has a great camera presence, shows on-air passion and lets the viewer know she is having a good time doing her job. When I met her at the Fox and Friends Summer Concert series, she couldn't have been any nicer. Very warm, very approachable and an overall nice person! She was pleasant to talk to and joined the crowd in singing and dancing along wtih the performer, who for the first concert I attended, was Sara Evans!<br />
<br />
And the next Fox and Friends Concert I attended, she was sitting in for Elisabeth Hasselbeck, and I had the opportunity meet her again. Just like the first time, she was very pleasant and down to earth! <br />
<br />
If you find yourself in New York City this summer, attending a Fox and Friends conert is well worth it. You may be waking up early, but it's free and they offer complimentary Famous Dave's BBQ! <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09982525004378577070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4047134486578567299.post-18404882234806545102014-07-28T20:26:00.000-04:002014-07-28T20:32:28.255-04:00Having Fun During a Busy TimeLet's just say that the past few months, I've been swamped. In the process of being swamped, I've also tried to have a little fun. The school where I taught this year had asked me to perform in their variety show after the director heard about my past singing experiences - no, no record contract, just muscial theatre in high schoool, Madrigals in college and a little karaoke when the mood strikes. In this video, here I am. Apparently, I brought the house down! I come on at about 4:00 of the video. <br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/X843oJPTFpI" width="350"></iframe><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<br />
Outside of school, I've been keeping involved with politics and some fun! Took a trip to Washington DC back in May and had the pleasure of meeting Florida Senator Marco Rubio and also had the opportunity to listen to and meet many members of Congress, attend a session at the Heritage Foundation, attend a reception at the Embassy of Taiwan and meet former HP CEO Carly Fiorina. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oiDDIILiFPA/U9boP7Qt6aI/AAAAAAAAB9I/8E2gMzj2J2o/s1600/2014+-+Senator+Marco+Rubio.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oiDDIILiFPA/U9boP7Qt6aI/AAAAAAAAB9I/8E2gMzj2J2o/s1600/2014+-+Senator+Marco+Rubio.JPG" height="261" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BjnyqbMirSY/U9boUTlK0fI/AAAAAAAAB9Q/AO4a7RXI4RY/s1600/2014+-+Carly+Fiorina.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BjnyqbMirSY/U9boUTlK0fI/AAAAAAAAB9Q/AO4a7RXI4RY/s1600/2014+-+Carly+Fiorina.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
Attending, in New York City, Mallory Factor's New York Meeting has also been an honor and has given me the opportunity to meet and interact with the Who's Who in Repblican circles. While I did enjoy <a href="http://the-right-solutions.blogspot.com/2014/06/poltical-meet-ups-and-speeches.html">meeting Dr. Carson last March</a>, another favorite I met was former RNC Chair and Mississippi Governor Haley Barbour. Very down to earth man who knows how to interact with people and knows politics well. Like Dr. Carson, he also took my question (skip to the end of the <a href="http://www.breitbart.com/Big-Government/2014/06/16/Haley-Barbour-Congress-Can-Still-Pass-Amnesty-After-Cantor-Defeat">video</a> to hear me ask it) and graciously thanked me for asking it afterwards. <br />
<br />
This year has been quite exciting and I look forward to the continuation of this year! <br />
<br />Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09982525004378577070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4047134486578567299.post-90373736584926645262014-06-27T01:00:00.000-04:002014-06-27T01:00:11.028-04:00Poltical meet-ups and speeches<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-06uBbvZx2tA/U6z2ExDKJWI/AAAAAAAAB8w/R3-F3ELUkSk/s1600/2014+-+Dr.+Ben+Carson.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-06uBbvZx2tA/U6z2ExDKJWI/AAAAAAAAB8w/R3-F3ELUkSk/s1600/2014+-+Dr.+Ben+Carson.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
A little <a href="http://the-right-solutions.blogspot.com/2013/02/dr-benjamin-carson-at-prayer-breakfast.html">over a year ago</a>, I wrote about Dr. Ben Carson, who has taken the political right by storm. About two months ago, I had the pleasure of meeting him in New York City at the New York Meeting; the monthly poltical confab organized by Mallory Factor and O'Brien Murray. <br />
<br />
Dr. Carson gave an impassioned speech about common sense solutions to the ills and problems that America faces. He also was open about answering questions from the panelists, especially about his perceieved "<a href="http://www.breitbart.com/Big-Government/2014/03/10/Dr-Ben-Carson-Against-Gun-Registration-Because-We-Should-Be-Really-Concerned-About-Martial-Law">Second Amendment Challenges</a>" and even answered my question about the possible role of pop culture and entertainment forces influencing and promoting education among inner city youth. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dw36XGEW-eH1gBqNtcXg34YL82G6wGVmNyqUlW7gWEH63hPukccBBHze8F54AhTGZSlL1wzPeCfTO6CtBFgqw' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Dr. Carson was then gracious enough to meet those who attended and pose for pictures, as seen above, and as he had done at CPAC 2014. It is unclear how successful the "Draft Ben Carson" movements will be, but I'm sure we will continue to hear from this man, who, as a doctor, has saved a countless number of lives, as we appoach the 2016 election. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09982525004378577070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4047134486578567299.post-54485434135108863512014-06-27T00:37:00.002-04:002014-06-27T00:37:17.212-04:00Back to BloggingI'm baaaaaaaaaaaaaack!<br />
<br />
First off, let me apologize for my absence. I learned of new professional responsiblities at the time of my last article, so to be the best I could be, I had to take a step back from reguarly blogging. A lot of fulfilling and promising events have happened in my career this year, which at times, has prevented me from catching my breath. I have now found that time to catch my breath! <br />
<br />
I'm happy to be back and I look forward to speaking about and analyzing political happenings on a local and national level, as well as anything else you might find interesting. Looking forward to you reading and hearing from you all soon! Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09982525004378577070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4047134486578567299.post-69560671928871578812013-05-16T22:57:00.001-04:002013-05-16T22:57:19.833-04:00Despicable Disney Tours<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0pnJxCJV2ec/UZWYG9otIqI/AAAAAAAAB8I/v3MNCLXrzYg/s1600/Epcot-Spaceship+Earth+1.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0pnJxCJV2ec/UZWYG9otIqI/AAAAAAAAB8I/v3MNCLXrzYg/s320/Epcot-Spaceship+Earth+1.JPG" /></a>
</div>
<br />
I'm going a little off political topic and on to the topic of Disney on this one. Came across this <a href="http://www.nypost.com/p/news/local/manhattan/disney_world_srich_kid_outrage_zTBA0xrvZRkIVc1zItXGDP">story</a> on Drudge this week - there is a tour guide company that offers 'black-market' VIP tours of Disney led by a handicapped person.
<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>Posing as a family member, for almost $1100/day, these tour guides utilize the handicapped entrance for their party (maximum of 6 according to Disney rules) so that the main lines can be bypassed. This tour company markets to wealthy New York families who want to take their children to the "Most Magical Place on Earth" during their spring break. Disney has a policy of not asking for disabled ID for guests who rent wheelchairs and/or motorized scooters for the disabled.
<br />
<br />
As someone who loves Disney, I am disgusted by this story, and the disgust is aimed at the families who use these tours. Not only are they teaching their children lessons that will compromise their character in years to come, but they are showing their sheer laziness in parenting. Part of the fun of a Disney vacation is doing the research as a family to make the best of one's time in the park. Through the use of Fastpass, riding the major attractions at non-peak times, dining at non-peak times and utilizing Extra Magic Hours, one can cover a lot of ground in a short amount of time. Close to the closing time of late Extra Magic Hours, the Magic Kingdom is especially quiet and one can get on the popular rides with less than a ten minute wait.
Heck, with my knowledge of Disney, these families can hire <strong>ME</strong> and I'll get their children on all the rides without going outside the bounds of Disney policy! <br />
<br />
This company has taken down their <a href="http://webcache.googleusercontent.com/search?q=cache:http://www.dreamtoursflorida.com/vip-tours/">website</a> and Disney will likely have to address their policy of ride access for disabled guests and their parties, and in the end, because of some despicable people who buck the system, those who the policy was intended to benefit may be hurt. Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09982525004378577070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4047134486578567299.post-91345270480046478462013-05-09T16:00:00.001-04:002013-05-11T22:13:03.913-04:00The Eyes of Texas<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uvpqVqeT1Lc/UYv6-eO-jTI/AAAAAAAAB70/EI8dD1s-9Ho/s1600/223.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uvpqVqeT1Lc/UYv6-eO-jTI/AAAAAAAAB70/EI8dD1s-9Ho/s320/223.JPG" /></a>
</div>
<br />
Had some professional commitments, which have kept me from blogging, as well as a little travel; some of which I will tell you about today! At the end of April, I had the pleasure of taking my first trip to Texas, specifically, San Antonio and Austin, to attend the Young Republican National Federation's Spring Quarterly.
<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>From a northeastern point of view, even one who has frequently traveled in the South, Texas truly has an identity of its own. From personalities to State Capitols to meal portions, it is true when they say "Everything's Bigger in Texas." That also goes toward warmth and hospitality! I had the opportunity of meeting and hearing a few Texas politicians speak of the importance of the 2nd Amendment on Texas culture, the history of the hand carry law, as well as the importance of the energy industry in Texas! For me, the political highlight of the trip was Senator Ted Cruz, and yes, that's me pictured with him above! He addressed our organization and gave a passionate speech, fully endorsing Conservatism as the way, accountability and an adherence to the US Constitution; all while personifying a never give up attitude that is sorely missing in the National Republican Party these days. The speech was given quite similarly to his <a href="http://the-right-solutions.blogspot.com/2013/03/ted-cruz-taking-washington-by-storm.html">CPAC address</a>, and I have video from this address below.
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dyCb_cbOCr-piS6S9O40yjA4h1dYVQZQ3tfqQa6vRtvh_l7WlCir1OT8zpl5tIiRjhHxn7S80qmXBRZtNseug' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
And it now learned that President Obama sees Senator Cruz as a threat, as <a href="http://trailblazersblog.dallasnews.com/2013/05/obamas-road-trip-to-texas-make-ted-cruz-republicans-the-face-of-washington-opposition.html/">he is planning on Alinsky-ing him</a>; making him the face of opposition, as well as attempting to silence him. The President does not realize that Senator Cruz cannot be silenced and will continue to fight for the Constitution. <br />
<br />
In discussion with one of the Republican politicians I met in the Lone Star State, Republicans in Texas, including Senator Cruz, are aware of the danger of this president; be it his policies, his attempt to take credit for their doing, as well as his attempt to make a pair of fraudulent Marxist twins into the next Obama(s) who will usurp the Hispanic vote and paint Texas blue. They will continue to articulate the Conservative agenda, its success and will put it up against Obama's any day.<br />
<br />
They say that those who visit Texas the first time want to return soon, and this goes without saying for me, but it's my hope that those of us from Blue States can take back with us not just the everyday souvenirs of Cowboy hats, boots and Longhorns/Aggies apparel, but also the policies and Conservative agenda that has made Texas such an economic success; applying it to our blue states to one day, make them red!Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09982525004378577070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4047134486578567299.post-68813869556390526842013-04-18T10:34:00.001-04:002013-04-18T10:34:17.861-04:00Disney's Animal Kingdom at 15<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7u5ugkr0mYc/UW_072QZ2bI/AAAAAAAAB7c/Qtl0t-4bKkA/s1600/AK-Tree+of+Life.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7u5ugkr0mYc/UW_072QZ2bI/AAAAAAAAB7c/Qtl0t-4bKkA/s320/AK-Tree+of+Life.jpg" /></a>
</div>
<br />
On Earth Day, April 22nd, 15 years ago, the forth theme park opened at Walt Disney World – Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Inspired by Walt Disney’s longtime wish to have live animals in his theme parks, combined with the success in the 1990s of <em>The Lion King</em>, Animal Kingdom broke new ground in the theme park world, as well as in the zoological world.
<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>Plagued with problems in the beginning with some of the animals, as well as marketing challenges, (remember notazoo) staggered expansions and previously promised lands never built, Animal Kingdom has weathered the challenges and made the control of animals once thought to be difficult, by Disney standards, rather easy. While Animal Kingdom is still not considered, by many to be a full-day theme park, it has some of the most intricate theming and detailed attractions in all of Walt Disney World.
<br />
<br />
As Walt Disney World once said, his parks will never be complete, and this is holding true in the Animal Kingdom, as <a href="http://the-right-solutions.blogspot.com/2011/09/avatar-coming-to-disney.html">Avatar Land</a> is moving from the design phase into reality, with the construction beginning this year! This land, based on the planet Pandora, has the potential of making Animal Kingdom a full day park. It is still my hope that Disney forces James Cameron to keep the politics out of it, and I believe there will be no politics in this attraction, as Disney does not want to offend at least half of its customer base. Will this addition bring about a Florida World of Color? Will they bring back the Discovery River? Will they make a night parade along the Discovery River? Only time will tell, but I look forward to seeing what the future holds in store for the next 15 years of Disney’s Animal Kingdom! Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09982525004378577070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4047134486578567299.post-14021945440391635312013-04-18T10:14:00.001-04:002013-04-18T10:14:31.817-04:00Premature Blame for BostonAs the <a href="http://the-right-solutions.blogspot.com/2013/04/thoughts-on-patriots-day-bombing.html">Boston Marathon Bombing</a> is being investigated, many people are looking to assess blame before we know the identity of the perpetrator(s).
<br />
<br />
Let me be the one to express that we must be patient and let the investigation work its way through before we prematurely blame anyone. Sadly, there are some on the left, and in the media, not willing to follow this, <a href="http://www.salon.com/2013/04/16/lets_hope_the_boston_marathon_bomber_is_a_white_american/">hoping for</a> and placing blame on domestic, <a href="http://www.breitbart.com/Big-Journalism/2013/04/17/CNN-Smear-Pressure-Cooker-Bomb-Right-Wing-Signature">right wing</a> sources; making connections to tax day (the day the bombing took place) the bombing of the Murra Building in <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2013/04/15/us/patriots-day-boston-bombing">Oklahoma City</a>, which occurred on April 19, 1995, as well as the <a href="http://redalertpolitics.com/2013/04/16/michael-moore-alleges-that-the-tea-party-was-behind-the-boston-massacre-bombings/">TEA Party</a>, which has consistently been a source of ridicule and false accusations among those in the Obama Administration. Sadly, this act of attempting to assess blame goes <a href="http://www.weeklystandard.com/blogs/axelrod-obama-thinks-boston-bombings-could-be-related-tax-day_717924.html">all the way to the top</a> and is clearly nothing more than the <a href="http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/quotes/r/rahmemanue409199.html">Rahm Emanuel</a>, Saul Alinsky way of diverting the discussion and taking political advantage of the situation. People died in the Back Bay section of Boston that day and to take political advantage of those dead and those wounded is a travesty!
<br />
<br />
As I previously said, we must assume the worst before we can hope for the best in order to protect against future attacks. But in the meantime, we must be patient, let the investigation take its course, analyze every bit of evidence from this case (and there already seems to be a lot) and be vigilant of those trying to hide information or take political advantage of the situation. It is the honorable thing to do not only for Americans so they can get answers, but for those who were killed or wounded on Monday.
Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09982525004378577070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4047134486578567299.post-21738671022181658072013-04-16T23:34:00.000-04:002013-04-16T23:34:42.087-04:00So God Made a PatriotWhile surfing around on the Internet tonight, I came across a very moving video called "So God Made a Patriot." Narrated by former Senator and presidential candidate Fred Thompson and based on the <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AMpZ0TGjbWE">Paul Harvey Super Bowl ad</a>, the nearly 5 minute video is a reminder to Americans not only about what makes a patriot, but what makes an American: sacrifice, hard work and resolve; all in the defense of liberty and freedom.
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="325" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/dAV8cfmawPk" width="395"></iframe><br />Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09982525004378577070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4047134486578567299.post-59021349371973860322013-04-16T15:56:00.000-04:002013-04-16T15:56:52.078-04:00Thoughts on the Patriots Day BombingEvery year on the third Monday in Massachusetts, Patriots
Day is celebrated, which signifies the Revolutionary War Battles of Lexington
and Concord; the battles that opened the American Revolution. What has become tradition
in recent years in the running of the Boston Marathon on Patriots’ Day.
Yesterday’s running, unfortunately, will forever be known for the fact that <a href="http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/04/16/us-usa-explosions-boston-idUSBRE93F06T20130416">two
bombs went off along Boylston Street in Boston</a>; close to the finish line of the
marathon and at about the time when most of the runners were completing the
race.
<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>What we know so far is the bombs went off about 15 seconds
apart and are believed to be planted in two garbage cans before the race.
Additional devices were found and police performed a controlled detonation on
them. A 20 year old Saudi national in the United States, on a student visa, who
was injured in the explosion, is under surveillance by the police. There was
also a third explosion at the John F. Kennedy Library, which is believed to be
unrelated. Three people have perished and over one hundred more were injured. Today, we have also learned that the <a href="http://www.foxnews.com/us/2013/04/16/marathon-bombs-likely-made-from-pressure-cookers-shrapnel-say-experts/">bombs were made with pressure cookers</a>; a type of bomb that is heavily used in Afghanistan and Pakistan.
<br />
<br />
In this post 9-11 world, we have to assume the worst (a
terrorist attack), yet hope for the best and if the worst becomes a reality,
the individuals and sponsors must be severely dealt with and future incidents
must be deterred. It’s going to take time to find out the perpetrators, but
thankfully, there is plenty of evidence which can trace the devices to the
perpetrators. Furthermore, once we know more, steps can be taken to prevent
future attacks. And also, the United States Government, once more answers are known, must act forcibly and clearly so our enemies know these terrorist acts will not be tolerated.
<br />
<br />
The first responders performed heroically and admirably, and
for their bravery, they must be commended. These folks ran <b>TOWARD</b> the mayhem,
were able to tend to the injured, while safely getting the crowd out of the
Copley Square/Back Bay area where the bombing took place.
<br />
<br />
Boston is a city I know very well. I have traveled there
many times, stayed in the vicinity of where the explosions occurred, as well as
have many family and friends who are from the area and still live there. Bostonians
are strong, they have a steely resolve and empathy to rival New Yorkers, and I
am confident they’ll get through and be on guard.Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09982525004378577070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4047134486578567299.post-74959025385111926212013-04-16T15:43:00.002-04:002013-04-16T15:43:43.818-04:00Remembering Baroness Margaret Thatcher 1925-2013<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wWmSlqViQr4/UW2okqIcurI/AAAAAAAAB7M/h0z0RhADWmM/s1600/thatcher.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wWmSlqViQr4/UW2okqIcurI/AAAAAAAAB7M/h0z0RhADWmM/s320/thatcher.jpg" width="231" /></a></div>
<br />
I’m a week late on this one, but with last week’s <a href="http://www.foxnews.com/world/2013/04/08/britain-margaret-thatcher-at-age-87-dies-after-suffering-stroke/">passing of former British Prime Minister, Baroness Margaret Thatcher</a>, one cannot forget about her contributions to British society and the world in general.
<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>The Baroness and her Conservative Party took power at a time in Britain when unions were holding the country hostage with crippling strikes, the economy was stagnant and there was the impression that the sun was beginning to set on an empire where the sun never set. Thatcher, with a strong will and incredible resolve, <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v0TtkJwCWhQ">faced her detractors and opponents head on</a>, not giving in and making Great Britain all the better for it. They even tried to assassinate her and the Baroness kept on going She applied her vision to British society, instituting economic, smaller government reforms, while strengthening the once vaunted British military, which gave Britons a sense of national pride that has been missing since the days of Winston Churchill.
<br />
<br />
On the international stage, the Baroness built a strong alliance with Ronald Reagan in order to bring an end to Soviet influence, ending once and for all the Cold War. By bringing an end to détente, she was not afraid to stand head to head against the Soviets in the interest of freedom. With her regional knowledge and intuition, she was able to see Mikhail Gorbachev as a man the West “could do business with,” while at the same time, aligning with Reagan’s policy of “Peace Through Strength.”
<br />
<br />
Baroness Margaret Thatcher will go down in history as not only being one of Great Britain’s greatest leaders, if not its greatest, but more importantly, her vision, will and resolve, as well as her ability to see things through, strengthened Western Europe and saved Great Britain!
Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09982525004378577070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4047134486578567299.post-85383810940922689852013-04-08T23:01:00.002-04:002013-04-08T23:01:59.104-04:00Updates and Happenings<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fbmB4LpuN7U/UWOD5NdC0qI/AAAAAAAAB68/9nWuKJ2qxgc/s1600/028.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fbmB4LpuN7U/UWOD5NdC0qI/AAAAAAAAB68/9nWuKJ2qxgc/s320/028.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
No worries, my loyal readers...I'm still here! It's been a heck of a couple of weeks since <a href="http://the-right-solutions.blogspot.com/2013/03/sarah-is-back.html">CPAC</a>. Thankfully, I did not come down with <a href="http://twitchy.com/2013/03/19/should-next-cpac-be-zpac-2014-cpacplague-its-real-and-its-not-spectacular/">#CPACPlague</a>, but I did get sick after the Middlesex County (NJ) Ballot Convention; likely when I was in the crowd to meet Governor Christie. It took a while, but I'm past this and am back here to blog!<br />
<br />
I also did a radio interview with my Georgia friend <a href="http://americaswebradio.com/showpages/GregsList.php">Greg Williams</a>. We talked about CPAC, Christie and cultural differences between the North and South. Once the audio file becomes available, I will gladly post it here. <br />
<br />
You can still find me on <a href="http://savejersey.com/author/christopher-canarelli/">Save Jersey</a> as well. My piece about New Jersey Reagan Day is pending.<br />
<br />
Thank you all for sticking by me...I'm back! Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09982525004378577070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4047134486578567299.post-20898405414073017392013-03-19T22:23:00.000-04:002013-03-19T22:23:16.120-04:00The Chris Christie CPAC Snub That Wasn't<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fHj2YbjEVfk/UUkdKhuUiVI/AAAAAAAAB6s/ssm7YEhVPH8/s1600/Chris+Christie+on+the+green.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fHj2YbjEVfk/UUkdKhuUiVI/AAAAAAAAB6s/ssm7YEhVPH8/s320/Chris+Christie+on+the+green.jpg" /></a>
</div>
<br />
Today, my next piece for <a href="http://savejersey.com/">Save Jersey</a> went live and it dealt with my governor.
<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>For days leading up to CPAC, there has been much talk about the snub of Governor Chris Christie. After some examination of the issue, as well as disucssion with a friend, I came to the conclusion that the <a href="http://savejersey.com/2013/03/the-snub-that-wasnt/">American Conservative Union <b>did not snub Chris Christie</b>, instead, excluding him so that Christie may politically benefit from that exclusion</a>.
<br />
<br />
I'm not one to go along with the flow and my argument surely proves it. Follow the link to Save Jersey to read the argument! Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09982525004378577070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4047134486578567299.post-29104019247543962632013-03-19T07:08:00.000-04:002013-03-19T07:08:16.671-04:00Ted Cruz Taking Washington By Storm<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E2WzsR356To/UUg9p31EeRI/AAAAAAAAB6c/vigJ3_qBfs0/s1600/Ted+Cruz+5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E2WzsR356To/UUg9p31EeRI/AAAAAAAAB6c/vigJ3_qBfs0/s320/Ted+Cruz+5.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
For the past two weeks, the newly elected Junior Senator from Texas, Ted Cruz, has taken Washington by storm, showing he is a consistent Conservative and practicing the method of No Fear; all with an effective media savvy that some veterans of Washington, in the Republican Party, do not possess.
<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>Many believe that <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jsy01ljGcy0">Ted Cruz’s intense questioning</a>, in committee of Attorney Eric Holder, and the Attorney General’s fumbling, eventually led to the <a href="http://the-right-solutions.blogspot.com/2013/03/i-stand-with-rand-filibuster.html">Rand Paul filibuster</a>. Furthermore, Ted Cruz was a <a href="http://youtu.be/I-WKsbZnNpY">major contributor</a> to those 13 hours on the Senate floor; quoting Shakespeare and reading tweets of support.
<br />
<br />
On Friday, in the Senate Judiciary Committee, Ted Cruz had this <a href="http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2013/03/14/sen-cruz-feinstein-tangle-over-2nd-amendment-as-panel-approves-assault-weapons/">exchange</a> with California Senior Senator, and avowed leftist, Dianne Feinstein, over the Constitutionality of a proposed assault weapons ban.
<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="325" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/JSTw0TCcFcY" width="395"></iframe>
<br />
<br />
As a conservative who will utilize every opportunity to make a point, I found this moment beautiful! Not only did he tick off Feinstein, who should be questioned for her beliefs, but he put up a fight in which many in his party refuse to engage. You now have Feinstein going all over the media, trying to paint Cruz as a sexist as he "rudely challenged her." She's almost 80 years old, she can handle it, and America knows it.
<br />
<br />
And on Saturday, Ted Cruz was the <a href="http://www.breitbart.com/Big-Government/2013/03/18/Establishment-Threatened-by-Ted-Cruz-Appeal-at-CPAC-Constitutional-Expert-with-Conservative-Passion">star of the show at CPAC</a>! Unlike keynote speakers of the past, Cruz came out early to introduce <a href="http://the-right-solutions.blogspot.com/2013/03/sarah-is-back.html">Sarah Palin</a> to show his loyalty for her support. Later that afternoon, Cruz gave his keynote and it was rather unique in that he stepped away from the podium to give it and did so <b>without</b> a teleprompter! In the keynote, Cruz professed a strict adherence to the US Constitution, the Constitutional role of separation of powers; all while wearing the attacks from the <a href="http://savejersey.com/2013/03/thinking-outside-the-beltway-box/#more-103731">Beltway Mentality Republicans</a> within his own party. The audience, including myself, loved every moment of that speech. My phone's battery died at this point, otherwise I would have posted a video of the speech. Instead, I'll post the entire speech that was posted on YouTube.
<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="325" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/lazhYw86-X8" width="395"></iframe>
<br />
<br />
Ted Cruz has done incredible work in Washington during the first year of his first term in the US Senate. Could we see more from Ted Cruz? Some are already addressing the <a href="http://www.breitbart.com/Big-Government/2013/03/11/Yes-Ted-Cruz-Likely-Eligible-to-be-President">Constitutional issues</a> that may come into play if he runs for president! That issue aside, Ted Cruz is a name that all in the United States will learn and know. Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09982525004378577070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4047134486578567299.post-42409300732795098122013-03-19T00:22:00.000-04:002013-03-19T00:22:22.965-04:00Sarah is Back<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_ya9VQ2mTqQ/UUfUpwTtrVI/AAAAAAAAB6M/Ytfh861d3Uk/s1600/Sarah+Palin+26.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_ya9VQ2mTqQ/UUfUpwTtrVI/AAAAAAAAB6M/Ytfh861d3Uk/s320/Sarah+Palin+26.jpg" /></a>
</div>
<br />
It drives her detractors crazy, it makes her supporters love her even more, but Sarah Palin has returned to speak at CPAC 2013.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>Although not in the <a href="http://the-right-solutions.blogspot.com/2012/02/sarah-at-cpac.html">keynote position like last year</a>, Palin’s speech garnered much attention from both the media and CPAC attendees, as the former Alaska Governor and 2008 Vice Presidential candidate has been out of the spotlight as of late. The energy was still there and to her benefit, Sarah was still Sarah. She showed the no-fear attitude that her supporters love in the direct shots she took at the president, Mayor Bloomberg and the consultant class of Washington DC. The ballroom at the Gaylord National Harbor, fitting just over 6,000 and full, erupted with loud applause when she took a <a href="http://the-right-solutions.blogspot.com/2013/02/rubio-ing-in-support-of-marco.html">Rubio-like break from giving her speech</a> to <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RpV4ot-VEyA">enjoy her Big Gulp</a> that Michael Bloomberg, the Mayor of New York City, tried so hard to ban in his city.
<br />
<br />
As can be seen in the clip of her speech I took from my seat, Sarah Palin still has it and I am sure she will be around for years to come!
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzBR2RZposV6cn5HE4_N7ivTtwovADw8jry-rHQdk-lefzL_tj9E0VJNiyuwSRFB0XOSOOsTtNFoYgFkmfN' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09982525004378577070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4047134486578567299.post-66510657272566736282013-03-18T22:56:00.001-04:002013-03-18T22:56:59.692-04:00More on the Beltway Mentality<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-viD1ERcAW9k/UUfSPg-3i6I/AAAAAAAAB58/4jQkaRxzKz4/s1600/Clock+Tower+View-Capitol+4.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-viD1ERcAW9k/UUfSPg-3i6I/AAAAAAAAB58/4jQkaRxzKz4/s320/Clock+Tower+View-Capitol+4.JPG" /></a>
</div>
<br />
In the lead up to CPAC 2013, I did not get a chance to remind you all about my next piece on Save Jersey.
<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><a href="http://savejersey.com/2013/03/thinking-outside-the-beltway-box/#more-103731">Premiering last week, I wrote about the Beltway Mentality that still exists in the Republican Party and the potential it has to destroy the potential gains that can be made by the GOP</a>. This is <a href="http://the-right-solutions.blogspot.com/2012/01/gunning-for-newtin-republican-party.html">a topic that I've focused on in the past</a> and it <a href="http://the-right-solutions.blogspot.com/2013/03/rand-paul-vs-beltway-mentality.html">still has the potential to pull the party down</a> when it should be advancing its agenda and expanding in support.
<br />
<br />
I will continue to keep you posted about my contributions to the Save Jersey website! Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09982525004378577070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4047134486578567299.post-10575681929690881872013-03-09T21:35:00.002-05:002013-03-09T21:35:19.158-05:00Rand Paul vs. the Beltway Mentality<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-csJfq95Duk8/UTvxUsem0pI/AAAAAAAAB5s/ijItPHAEDOc/s1600/capitol+(2)+-+Copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-csJfq95Duk8/UTvxUsem0pI/AAAAAAAAB5s/ijItPHAEDOc/s320/capitol+(2)+-+Copy.JPG" width="299" /></a></div>
<br />
As I said this week, <a href="http://the-right-solutions.blogspot.com/2013/03/i-stand-with-rand-filibuster.html">Rand Paul's filibuster</a> has been quite the influential moment in Washington, and from the reaction it's getting otuside the Beltway, the energy exhibited by the Junior Senator from Kentucky is spreading! Not everybody, apparently in Washington is happy.
<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>Senators <a href="http://www.theblaze.com/stories/2013/03/07/not-helpful-to-the-american-people-now-we-know-where-sen-mccain-falls-in-the-drone-debate/">John McCain and Linsdey Graham have attempted to undercut Rand Paul</a> and his actions, apparently from the dinner table with Obama. Thankfully, <a href="http://thehill.com/video/senate/286881-paul-blasts-back-at-mccain-graham">Rand Paul is not backing down</a>, standing behind his filibuster, as well as his methods.
<br />
<br />
McCain and Graham are part of the old guard who believe in the <a href="http://the-right-solutions.blogspot.com/2012/01/gunning-for-newtin-republican-party.html">Beltway Mentality</a>; go along to get along, be seen to be seen and be accepted as a member of the loyal opposition. Rand Paul and Republicans like Marco Rubio, Ted Cruz, and Mike Lee believe they were sent to Washington with a purpose; and that purpose isn't to have a prominent table nightly at Sam & Harry's while having the media oogle them along the cocktail party scene, but instead, to get the work of the American people done, and that work, at least expressed by their voters, is stopping the Obama agenda. The nearly 49% of Americans who did not vote for Barack Obama should know which Republicans to support and which Republicans to primary. Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09982525004378577070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4047134486578567299.post-73972261649986205372013-03-07T06:41:00.000-05:002013-03-07T06:41:02.684-05:00My Save Jersey Premiere<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9Un8jNdn4LE/UTh8OCbDL5I/AAAAAAAAB5c/b8iTMrFqgkQ/s1600/savejersey-logo1087.png" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9Un8jNdn4LE/UTh8OCbDL5I/AAAAAAAAB5c/b8iTMrFqgkQ/s320/savejersey-logo1087.png" /></a>
</div>
<br />
In addition to providing my readers with expert analysis on the current political events of the day here at "The 'Right' Solutions," I am happy to report that you can also find me on the <a href="http://savejersey.com/">Save Jersey</a> website!
<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>My first piece premiered there yesterday, focusing on where the Republican Party and Conservative movement needs to go in 2013 and beyond. Remember, right-leaders: <a href="http://savejersey.com/2013/03/unapologetically-articulate-conservatism/">Unapologetically Articulate Conservatism</a>! I will keep you posted about future pieces that I contribute to Save Jersey.
<br />
<br />
Again, I'm not going anywhere, so now you'll have at least two places to find me! Happy Reading! Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09982525004378577070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4047134486578567299.post-90012606925762784882013-03-06T20:38:00.001-05:002013-03-06T20:38:12.901-05:00I Stand with Rand: The FilibusterIt has been quite a newsworthy day in Washington DC today! Thinking they were facing a storm that would bring them lots of snow, they are now facing a storm of discontent, thanks to the <a href="http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2013/03/06/sen-paul-holds-floor-for-hours-in-filibuster-cia-nominee-over-drone-concerns/">Rand Paul filibuster</a>!
<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>We have not seen this in a few years...a good old fashioned, stop the clock filibuster, against the nomination of CIA Director designate, John Brennan. Senator Paul's opposition centers on the drone policy and whether or not a strike can be ordered upon an American citizen, on American soil, without taking it through the justice system and when no threat is eminent. Senators on both sides of the aisle have taken up Rand Paul's cause and at 8:18 Eastern Time, he continues to speak!
<br />
<br />
Since the election, many Conservatives and Republicans, myself included, have gone through a <a href="http://the-right-solutions.blogspot.com/2012/12/the-break.html">withdrawal process, or detox</a>, and <a href="http://the-right-solutions.blogspot.com/2012/12/disney-december.html">taken a little time off</a>. Today, Rand Paul's action of filibuster injected a little life and fight that is so needed into the Republican Party. We're back! We must not forget that the <a href="http://the-right-solutions.blogspot.com/2013/01/inauguration-day-aka-hump-day.html">Republican Congress is the last line of defense in Washington from the agenda of Barack Obama</a> and we hope this is the beginning of the end of the "<a href="http://the-right-solutions.blogspot.com/2012/01/gunning-for-newtin-republican-party.html">Beltway Mentality</a>" held by the Republican Party.
<br />
<br />
Rand Paul is standing on principle and not backing down. Whether or not this battle is won, he has inspired those at the grassroots level get back into battle mode. He has also helped himself in distancing himself from his father, while making a name for himself for the future, and advancing a brand of Republicanism, with a heavy lean on Libertianism, that is palatable to Conservatives. This is turning out to not be your quintessential second presidential term in Washington DC. Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09982525004378577070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4047134486578567299.post-50984939048314552462013-03-05T23:49:00.000-05:002013-03-05T23:49:13.604-05:00A Dead Dictator<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2BwQLAFH4tk/UTbE6J1X0HI/AAAAAAAAB5M/3lI-x-blTOQ/s1600/Margarita+Island.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="257" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2BwQLAFH4tk/UTbE6J1X0HI/AAAAAAAAB5M/3lI-x-blTOQ/s320/Margarita+Island.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
In 1996, I had the opportunity to travel to the nation of Venezuela. Pictured above is the view from our hotel room on Margarita Island. It is a beautiful country with a friendly people, warm climate, multitude of tourist sites and potential for economic growth. In 1999, its government was taken over by a cancer named Hugo Chavez and today, <a href="http://www.foxnews.com/world/2013/03/05/venezuelan-president-hugo-chavez-dead-vp-says/">cancer has taken the life of the cancer</a>.
<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>In the years Hugo Chavez has been the President of Venezuela, he yanked the country in the direction of Socialism, while at the same time, disregarding the individual, private business and a free press. If an individual or political party disagreed with him, they were considered an enemy of the state and their safety and freedom were at risk. Private companies were at risk in Venezuela, as with a very simple process, Hugo Chavez was able to force a governmental takeover. In controlling the government, Chavez unabashedly practiced nepotism and profiteering off the people of Venezuela. Furthermore, his governmental control of the oil industry, one of the top world producers of crude, over-inflated its prices, having a deleterious effect on the economies of its consumers.
<br />
<br />
With his death, there will be no more of his combative revolutionary rhetoric, and no more of his aggressive movements and <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lOsABwCrn3E">language against the United States</a>. The nation of Venezuela is at a crossroads. While Vice President Nicholas Maduro, the handpicked successor of Chavez, will likely share his leadership style and ideology, the Venezuelan people have a chance to wake up from their Socialist trance imposed on them by Hugo Chavez for nearly 14 years, and decide the path and fate of their country with the death of a dictator who is burning in hell. It also remains to be seen the role the United States will play in Venezuela's leadership transition. Only time will tell. Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09982525004378577070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4047134486578567299.post-70024588392367550762013-03-05T23:19:00.000-05:002013-03-05T23:19:42.681-05:00In the Huckabee Audience<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wI24Ggapy6Y/UTbAYpvd4pI/AAAAAAAAB48/f1LNlf1SaYM/s1600/004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wI24Ggapy6Y/UTbAYpvd4pI/AAAAAAAAB48/f1LNlf1SaYM/s320/004.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Living near New York City and being a fan of Fox News Channel, there is always the opportunity to <a href="http://the-right-solutions.blogspot.com/2011/08/on-huckabee.html">be a part of their studio audience</a> or even <a href="http://the-right-solutions.blogspot.com/2010/12/on-air.html">interact on-air with them</a>! Last Saturday, I had the repeated pleasure of being a studio audience member of Mike Huckabee's weekend show on the Fox News Channel!
<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>If you are a Republican and a Huckabee supporter, you will definitely enjoy the experience! He greets and interacts with every audience member and the staff is as accommodating as one would expect. With the recent headlines of Sequestration dominating the news, the show's topics centered around that subject. As usual, the audience was interested, excited to be there and responded well.
<br />
<br />
Again, a major thanks goes out to the staff of <em>Huckabee</em> for their professionalism, hospitality and accommodation! I look forward to being a member of the studio audience again! Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09982525004378577070noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4047134486578567299.post-69530151550282127582013-02-28T23:52:00.000-05:002013-02-28T23:52:04.227-05:00Leftists on Hannity Create a StirWhile watching <i>Hannity</i> on Tuesday, I was quite caught off guard by the blatant ignorance and offensive nature of two guests Sean had on his show.
<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>First was Minnesota Congressman Keith Ellison. Here is the clip, along with the montage Hannity aired before introducing him.
<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="325" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/x3l5A9f_Kac" width="395"></iframe>
<br />
<br />
As you can see, the Congressman’s temperament went over the cliff. He could not face or defend the president in that montage, which Sean used to show the president’s fear-mongering when it comes to Sequestration. Instead, the Congressman resorted to name calling and petulant shouting.
<br />
<br />
I took note of the Congressman accusing Hannity of yellow journalism and being a sorry excuse for a journalist. What he, and many liberals like the Congressman do not understand is that Hannity is <b>NOT</b> a journalist, he is an analyst. As I have <a href="http://the-right-solutions.blogspot.com/2010/07/fox-newsthe-only-name-in-cable-news.html">previously explained</a>, there is a clear difference between hard news, which is Bret Baier’s focus, and news analysis, which is Hannity’s focus. Fox News pays him to give his opinion and argue his point of view. The Congressman chose to ignore this fact and thankfully, Sean only subjected his viewers to nine minutes of the Congressman’s ranting.
<br />
<br />
Also noticeable was the behavior of another liberal leaning guest, attorney and analyst, Tamara Holder. Here is the video clip, as you need to see this for yourself.
<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="325" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/TDqk10yJPp0" width="395"></iframe>
<br />
<br />
The false blanket statement made by Holder was flat-out offensive and Hannity was right to call her out. Every Southern friend that I have is in much better shape than the majority of my Northeastern friends. Maybe they don’t eat the yummy goodness of New Orleans Cajun cuisine and the fantastic fried foods one sees in Atlanta and Charlotte, maybe they take advantage of the warmer weather to exercise outside; either way, Tamara Holder is wrong and she should be pressured to apologize.
<br />
<br />
Thankfully other guests on Hannity, that evening, returned his broadcast to sanity.
Chrishttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09982525004378577070noreply@blogger.com0