Subject: Happy New Year
Date Sent: 31 Dec 2019
The 2020 Chinese New Year, begins on January 25 and lasts about 15 days. If I’d known this when I was younger, I might have become Chinese – 15 days of celebration – cool! It is also the year of the rat. I hope they don’t turn out to be rats and trash trade deals with us.
The Christian New Year which is recognized almost universally, at least for official record keeping, lasts, of course, only one short day. It is based on the beginning of Christianity – 2,020 +/- years ago. The Jewish new year, 5780, is based the biblical beginning - Adam and Eve, 5,780 +/- years ago and is celebrated in the fall of each year. The Muslims usher in 2020 on August 19 while Hindus will be celebrating on November 14th.
Anyway you look at it, it’s the start of a new decade – and 1/5 of the way into the 21st Century. I don’t feel old until I think of being born in the 4th decade of the last century. Therefore, now then and whereas whatever date you celebrate: enjoy the year!
Life Don’t Get No Better,
Chuck Klein
https://chuckklein.com
********************************************************************************
Subject: Merry Christmas
Date Sent: 24 Dec 2019
Twas the twilight before happy holidays
With visions of venison stew
And presents all stacked in a maze
Especially awaiting for me and you
All warm and toasty in front of a fire
I and my honey were settled with a book,
When there arose the screech of a tire
Of course, we peered out the window for a look
There was Santa still strapped-in
A Silver-ra-do with four on the floor
And a 427 all hopped-up with
Four-barrels, hot cams and more
Seems the old geezer had run out of gas
Completely empty was the fuel tank.
Saying, as we filled up his hot pick-up,
For this he had the elves to thank
Off he roared down the lane
Burning rubber in second gear.
Clearly, we then heard him exclaim
Next year it’s back to the reindeer
Chuck Klein
https://chuckklein.com
********************************************************************************
Subject: Voter Questions
Date Sent: 17 Dec 2019
Questions the pundits and politicians are ignoring. As voters, perhaps it’s time to face the mirror and ask:
1) If Trump, as expected, is not convicted of impeachment and then wins in 2020 and the Democrats retain control of the House AND gain the majority in the Senate, should they begin new investigations and impeachment proceedings?
2) If a Democrat wins the Presidency and Republicans regain control of the House, should they continue the precedent of partisan politics and begin investigations and impeachment proceedings as payback?
3) Do you believe any politician will be politically unbiased when judging a fellow politician? How ‘bout Judges?
4) If you were Pelosi, Schiff or Nadler would you do it again?
5) Trump has been accused of obstructing Congress by instructing all of his appointees to ignore House subpoenas. He claims executive privilege. How many should he (and future Presidents) be allowed to bar?
6) Do you believe the impeachment proceedings have done more to unite/save or divide/destroy our Republic?
Chuck Klein
https://chuckklein.com
**************************************************************
Subject: Reprints
Date Sent: 10 Dec 2019
Hot rodding, more specifically, street rodding, is not so much about sweating 10w-30 over trophies or beating the loud-mouth in his daddy’s stocker; it is far more intimate. In other words, it’s the 90 weight gear oil that pours from your pores worrying whether baby - your sweetheart – the car you personally created will make it at least once-around Big Boy, back home and to work again the next day.
LineChaser, the Minnesota Street Rod Association’s monthly magazine, will be re-printing my car/love-centered short stories. These fiction and non-fiction historically and technically correct tales began running in 1993 in Street Rod Action Magazine and later became the basis for my books, THE WAY IT WAS, Nostalgic Tales of HotRods and Romance and WHERE THE OLD HIGHWAY HAD RUN, Classic Tales of the Road and Beyond. MSRA, established in 1967, has over 10K active members in 50 states and ten foreign countries.
Most of these stories have been published multiple times in other magazines and books. A portion of one is recorded in the U.S. Congressional Record. Now, all I need is a producer with foresight to make some of them into movies.
Chuck Klein
https://chuckklein.com
*******************************************************************************
Subject: Producing Ideas
Date Sent: 3 Dec 2019
The formula for creativity production is comprised of six distinct and separate steps, I call the Latent Psyche Concept. Latent, because it deals with the ideas and thoughts hidden away in the back of the mind. Psyche, for the involvement of the entire mind including the sections for memory, intellect and the subconscious. Concept, because this word best defines the goal of seeking an idea, abstract notion or new outlook.
The crux of the concept is to force the subconscious portion of the mind to consort, fraternize and - meld - with information. Uncomplicated by conscious thoughts, and all its taboos and negatives, the Latent Psyche "mixing-it-up" stage is a playground for creativity. My personal trick to producing ideas: the card game, solitaire.
Chuck Klein
https://chuckklein.com
*****************************************************************************
Subject: Thanksgiving
Date Sent: 26 Nov 2019
Though we all might be divided
But for this day we are united
And for that no one will be chided.
There is so much to be thankful for
That one day of giving thanks
Is not enough to completely
Bring together and unify the ranks
The traditional holiday meal when
All holding hands thanks is rendered
Not only for being in America
But acknowledgement to G-d is tendered
Oh yeah, and as along as this day lasts
Unlike other days present, future and past
Today we don’t have to fast
Chuck Klein
https://chuckklein.com
**********************************************************************************
Subject: Life Don't Get No Better
Date Sent: 19 Nov 2019
A couple of weeks ago I sent out the lyrics to my first attempt at writing a classic county song; classic inasmuch as it tells a story (all true) and is not “new country” loud. Inspired by the Ken Burns Country Music History special on PBS, I wrote:
LIFE DON’T GET NO BETTER. (Yeah, I know the double negative isn’t grammatically correct, except maybe in the country). The webpage provides the refined lyrics and a link to listen to the audio demo.
Writing is the easy part – getting the attention of a recording artist/studio is the hard part. There is a lot of luck involved – it’s more like knowing someone who knows someone, who knows someone ... who is someone.
So ... if you know someone please let me know. If not, please forward this to your contacts (who might know someone) and post the demo on your social media sites. Or, at least let me know what you think. Lets have some fun with this.
Thanks, and I hope you enjoy it.
Chuck Klein
https://chuckklein.com
****************************************************************
Subject: Un-Dividing America, Pt. II
Date Sent: 12 Nov 2019
Small minds diss people; Average minds talk about things; Great minds discuss ideas.
Though some of these suggested solutions are “unique,” they are tendered with the belief that: Off-the-wall ideas can tear down stone, iron and even political walls:
1) Selecting judges: (a) Each party puts up a battery of their qualified candidates and vacancies are filled by lottery … or (b) the minority party submits a slate of qualified candidates from which the majority party must pick;
2) News: Equal members of CNN and FOX join together to form a spin-check news agency;
3) “Great Minds”: All accept this simple concept: Nancy Pelosi, Chuck Schumer, Donald Trump, et.al., are all patriots doing what they honestly believe is best for America (Patriot: “one who loves and loyally or zealously supports one’s own country” (Webster’s New World Dictionary, 3rd College Edition).
4) Amendment XXV: Trump declares “…he is unable to discharge the powers and duties of his office….” Pence become Acting President until “he [Trump] transmits … a written declaration to the contrary….” Thus, (maybe just prior to the 2020 election) he resumes the Presidency. The impeachment process stops as it can’t be executed against a person who is not in office.
Chuck Klein
https://chuckklein.com
**************************************************************************
Subject: Un-Dividing America, Pt. I
Date Sent: 5 Nov 2019
Small minds diss people; Average minds talk about things; Great minds discuss ideas. The evidence is clear that some of today’s leaders and followers have exhibited all three traits. Trump is surely guilty of childish rhetoric, but so too are those conducting politically motivated investigations that are also a form of small-minded name-calling. The problem is that “small minds” can’t seem to separate the person from the office.
To “small minds” Trump might be a bozo and other juvenile labels aimed at him. However, those who voted for him and continue to support him - not because they like his personal demeanor - but because he is doing what they voted him to do, i.e., conservative judges, immigration control, international trade deals, strong military.... Wars are full of accounts where a company of soldiers hated their sergeant, but when it came time to face the enemy they followed because he could win battles.
The path to Un-Dividing America could begin when “Great Minds” accept this simple concept: Nancy Pelosi, Chuck Schumer, Donald Trump, et.al., are all patriots doing what they honestly believe is best for America. Next week: Un-Dividing America pt. II (Solutions/Ideas).
Chuck Klein
https://chuckklein.com
*****************************************************************************
Subject: Country Song
Date Sent: 29 Oct 2019
I’m takin’ my shot at country music song writing – that’s the easy part. The hard parts are getting someone to put music to the lyrics and marketing. Suggestions/comments greatly appreciated:
LIFE DON’T GET NO BETTER
© 2019 Chuck Klein
Building dams down by the crick
And houses in the trees
Life Just Don’t Get No Better
‘til my pappy give me a lick
Forgettin’ ta say ma’am and please
Puppy love with guardian angels up above
Teens and cars with three carbs
And that first kiss
Life Don’t Get No Better Than This
We had three boys, one didn’t survive
David Scott is in a better place than us
Thus, onto a farm where again was bliss
Life Don’t Get No Better Than This
Too many I’m sorrys and woes
And for sale the farm goes
Single and in the big city
I found my soul mate and fate echoed
Life Just Don’t Get No Better
This pretty miss once we dated
In high school I told her I’d call
It took 30 years but there were no tears.
Life Don’t Get No Better Than This
Our children’s children
Build dams down by the crick
And houses in the trees as we reminisce
Life Just Don’t Get No Better Than This
Chuck Klein
https://chuckklein.com
**************************************************************************
Subject: Day Trip
Date Sent: 25 Oct 2019
Yeah, I know it’s not Tuesday, but I had to write this down and since it’s written, I thought I’d share it.
The year is over – over for this purpose: the fields have been tended, the firewood is in and the equipment has been serviced - so we took a daytrip in our
'71 El Camino. With Windexed windows and cozy wings cracked open, the crisp autumn air smelled of tilled soil and wood smoke. During the first 10 miles of highway we passed maybe half-dozen cars then we turned onto one of Brown County’s (OH) many “country roads”.
For the next 10 miles of rolling, twisting, switchback roadway, sans centerlines, guardrails and those ubiquitous yellow warning sign, it was just towering, multi-colored fall foliage, with branches reaching out like they wanted to shake hands. The route through these tunnels of reds, yellows, greens, and browns was more like a faded ribbon running through a box of crayons or a slow motion roller coaster in a rainbow. We never saw another motor vehicle.
Of the few farms we happened upon some appeared manicured and prosperous, others hard-scrabble with centuries-old stone walls and ramshackle, weathered barns. Come Visit.
Chuck Klein
https://chuckklein.com
***********************************************************************
Subject: Copyright
Date Sent: 22 Oct 2019
Copyright protection is so important that our Constitutional framers empowered the Congress to protect authors’ rights to their writings (Art I, Sec. 8). Federal law, based on this provision, makes it a punishable offense of up to $150K for violations of copyright – and damages do not have to be proven.
One of my stories, Last Knight (
latest reprint), was published in my book, THE WAY IT WAS, Nostalgic Tales of HotRods and Romance, for which I secured a copyright. A few years later, Voyageur Press sought to reprint the story in their book of hot rods. They paid $500 for one-time and reprint rights and agreed not edit my copyrighted work.
When their book was published, I was dismayed to see that they changed one word - that single word change made the story seem senseless. I protested and the editor promised a correction for the 2nd printing. Ditto for the 3rd printing. When I complained again the editor told me to buzz off. I sued them in Federal District Court and we settled out of court of $30K.
Chuck Klein
https://chuckklein.com
**************************************************************************
Subject: Possibilities
Date Sent: 15 Oct 2019
Perhaps the reasons Trump pulled our troops out of Syria:
a) We gave the Kurds weapons and training to defend themselves, but no guarantee of forever protection. Thought the Kurds have been fighting ISIS, they are not fighting to protect American interests, but to save themselves.
b) NATO “allies” have not been supportive of the ISIS battles. The EU should be guarding the ISIS prisoners who will be escaping to the EU.
c) Turkey, a Muslim nation, knew we would impose sanctions, but has allied with Russia by buying arms from them rather than us.
d) The Sunnis, Shiites, Islamics all hate each other (and us). We are not the world’s police force or prison guards existing to protect and isolate religious factions who fundamentally are anti-America.
e) Syria has entered the fray on the Kurds side – not to protect the Kurds, but to keep Turkey from controlling the region and to kill the ISIS prisoners kept there.
f) Trump pulled out when he learned Russian-armed Turkey was poised to invade, thus saving American soldiers from being caught in a no-win situation that would cost American soldiers lives.
Chuck Klein
https://chuckklein.com
*************************************************************************
Subject: Ukraine
Date Sent: 8 Oct 2019
WHY? The Executive Branch is the law enforcement branch of our government. The chief law enforcement officer’s obligation is to “take care that the laws be faithfully executed” (Art II, Sec 3). Quid-pro-quo, asking favors, interviewing heads of states are all standard police investigatory tactics. In other words, it would be “high crimes and misdemeanors” if Trump shirked his duty to investigate a criminal suspect even if the suspect is a political rival.
BLOWN WHISTLE: The Whistleblower Protection Act of 1989 is a law that protects federal government employees from retaliatory action for voluntarily disclosing information about dishonest or illegal activities occurring in a government organization. It does NOT say that the Whistleblower’s identity is to be withheld from the accused, the media or the public, per se.
THE VIOLATION: Trump has repeatedly been denied the identity of his accuser in direct violation of his VI Amendment rights, i.e., “...to be confronted with witnesses against him; to have compulsory process for obtaining witnesses in his favor....” DJT is no different than any other citizen inasmuch as he has the right to face his accuser, conduct a cross-examination and have the means, right and power to subpoena witnesses.
Chuck Klein
https://chuckklein.com
********************************************************************************
Subject: Reviews
Date Sent: 1 Oct 2019
I read a copy of Consumer Reports recently and realized – again – why I don’t subscribe. Article #1 was about the alleged danger of nitrates and nitrites in meat. Article #2 was an in-depth look at meatless burgers. You would think that since both articles were about “meat,” they would at the least acknowledge the presence or non-presence of nitrates/nitrites in the”meatless” piece. Not so. In another feature article they rated used cars. Of the dozen+ cars listed not one Chevrolet or Ford was recommended and the Ford Edge was depicted as unreliable. I’ve owned a number of Ford Edges and found all of them to be most reliable.
I used to watch “60 Minutes” until they became so obviously and blatantly left slanted. However, a couple of weeks ago the network indicated a story of interest was to be broadcast, and I decided to give them another try. The episode and the following week’s episode was, much to my surprise, void of any political spin. How refreshing – but it was then followed by a career reminisce of correspondent, Steve Kroft, who admitted, during an interview, that he gave Barak Obama a pass on a sensitive issue.
Chuck Klein
https://chuckklein.com
**********************************************************
Subject: Blackface
Date Sent: 24 Sep 2019
There’s been a lot of bashing of white politicians, who, during their youth, wore makeup to appear black. Nothing is ever said as to the context of these acts. Of course, if they were dissing African-Americans by depicting negative attributes that could be slanderous. What if they were paying tribute to MLK doing one his famous speeches? Who is to decide what’s a negative attribute?
Suppose a WASP made-up with a beanie, mussed up hair, put on a fake mustache and big nose while honoring Albert Einstein? Would that unacceptable? Or a black man putting on whiteface to represent a hillbilly? How ‘bout the TV talk show guests who dress-up and makeup to portray white politicians in a very degrading light?
Should all movie and stage actors who have made-up to look and act like the stereotypical Indian, cowboy, sports fan, little old lady, drunk, junkie, mental incompetent plus the photographers and writers who perpetuated stereotypical anyones be chastised for paid entertainment? Surely the educated can see the “___face” portrayals are political correctness out of control … oh wait, now I’ll be condemned for stereotyping educated people. Humm, how ‘bout if I wrote pseudo-educated….?
Chuck Klein
https://chuckklein.com
*************************************************************************
Subject: Death
Date Sent: 17 Sep 2019
Everyone is going to die – no exceptions. For many, there are fates worse than death. The old adage: ‘better to be a live coward than a dead hero’ doesn’t apply to police officers, firefighters, soldiers ... where cowardice is a fate worse than death.
When faced with a terminal medical condition where the prognosis is short term, those with the compassion for friends and relatives (not to mention the cost), will say their good-byes and take their own lives. In other words, why would one want to endure the pain and suffering of useless treatment to what … gain a few more days, weeks, months? Besides, it might only be prolonging the proverbial better place for your soul. It’s not a selfish or cowardly act to end your own life when the end is certain – quite the opposite. Hospice, an acceptable form of suicide, is craven egocentricity.
Having experienced the time-wasting and guilt driven visits with terminal friends and relatives; my greatest fear is to end up in a condition where I don’t have the ability to end my own life on the terms I choose.
Chuck Klein
https://chuckklein.com
********************************************************************************
Subject: Not From USA
Date Sent: 3 Sep 2019
Warming seas have caused certain fish species to moved north to colder water forcing fishing boats to travel farther (consume more diesel fuel). These giant ships can net up to 100 tons of fish at a time. On board, the meat is processed into millions of fish-sticks, fast-food/gourmet filets while the non-human edible portions are ground into animal feed. This is a billion dollar industry.
Also caught in these huge nets are tons of plastic debris that is toxic to plant and animal alike. Most of it comes from India, China and other countries that have little to no trash disposal methods such as incineration, burning or burial (
“60” Minutes) . The mouths of some of the rivers flowing from these wasteful nations are continuously choked with floating masses of plastic waste plus all sorts of unfiltered chemicals and human excrement.
Next time well-intentioned do-gooders want to ban plastic straws to save the world, you might want to ask them how long can this planet survive – even at a reduced rate – of depleting the oceans of fish while at the same time dumping vast amount of refuse into our life-sustaining seas?
Chuck Klein
https://chuckklein.com
*********************************************************************************
Subject: Bureaucratic Power
Date Sent: 27 Aug 2019
A few years ago, the ATF, after careful examination, determined the bump-stock attachment to firearms does not make that gun a machinegun. After the Las Vegas massacre by a man using such a device, the ATF re-classified the bump-stock as a machinegun. The ATF did this under what is known as the Chevron Deference, (a court case doctrine) that essentially gives federal agencies (ATF, FBI, EPA, et. al.) tremendous latitude in interpreting, applying and enforcing the Constitution and federal statutes. In other words, unelected bureaucrats have the power to unilaterally make or change rules/laws/rights).
Of course, adversely impacted citizens may sue subject agencies – at their own expense while a government agency has unlimited defense (taxpayer) funds. Though cumbersome and politically controlled, Congress, under the Constitution, is the only legal method to make/alter laws/rules/the Constitution.
Suppose the DOT, citing the Chevron Deference, determines for the sake of safety, all civilian motor vehicle drivers. while on a federal highway, must wear full-face helmets. Then a few years later say ALL passengers must also wear full-face helmets and then order mandatory seatbelts ... oh wait, they already did that.
Chuck Klein
https://chuckklein.com
****************************************************************************
Subject: G.O.D. Plan
Date Sent: 20 Aug 2019
One solution to preventing mass killings is predicting future acts. Though mind-reading devices are unavailable, brainwashing is. A more PC term would be appropriate for the program, such as: Good Option Deeds - G.O.D.
The G.O.D would be a government sanctioned agenda whereas they, in conjunction with schools, corporatons and places of worship begin indoctrinating youth that it’s okay to think, speak, write evil thoughts but actual threats or acting on such thoughts will not bode well after death. Yeah, I know the First Amendment.... However, America is a nation founded on Judeo-Christian ideals whereas G-d is not only printed on our money, but it is part of the official Pledge of Allegiance and acknowledged with tax exemptions for religious organizations.
G.O.D would only allow reference to a Supreme Being. Its goal would be to portray that the soul/spirit lives on after the physical death of the body and if the body commits evil acts, the after-life of this soul/spirit will be tormented forevermore. In other words, the next generation must be persuaded that committing evil deeds will result in a fate worse than death itself whether by police, suicide or even naturally.
Suppressing these evil thoughts from turning into action could be absolution by confessing such musings to a teacher, employer or cop, thus providing a heads-up opportunity for additional counseling. (Full text:
The G.O.D. Plan)
Chuck Klein
https://chuckklein.com
*****************************************************************************
Subject: Self Poll
Date Sent: 13 Aug 2019
Pundits, liberals, conservatives, lawyers, politicians – lots of people want to blame (or credit) someone or something for everything.
What level – percent - of blame/responsibility/credit would you place on: China, Russia, India, EU, Muslims, Jews, Christians, Republicans; Democrats, Trump, Obama, police, video games, music, availability of firearms, main-stream media, social media, baby boomer generation per se, progressives/liberals, conservatives, The Senate, The House, _______?
Gun Violence:
Economy:
Threat of War:
Safety from War:
General Safety While in Public or Home:
Illegal Drugs:
Foreign Trade:
Illegal Immigration:
Pollution:
Over Population:
Climate Change:
Deficit:
Ethnic Persecution:
No candidate or party is perfect – the best we can do is vote for the party that we believe will take the country in the direction we think is best. Personal attacks, name-calling, hand-wringing, whining plus useless and endless investigations doesn’t bode well for America. In other words, might not it be better to tender solutions or positive suggestions, sans those words/terms?
Chuck Klein
https://chuckklein.com
***********************************************************************************
Subject: Perspective
Date Sent: 6 Aug 2019
We (you, me, Trump, Pelosi, Biden, et al.,) all love America, it’s just that “we” have different views of what America is or should be. But, that doesn’t make any of “us” love our country less.
I suggest that those who harbor hate/disgust against a particular person to separate the person from the goal and accept that other people have different aspirations than you and they love America just as much as you do. Let me put it to you like this: If someone was about to kill your child/grandchild and the only person who could save him/her was a lying, cheating, unsavory, egocentric character - would you not support this despicable person – at least until the threat is gone or you can secure other means of saving your loved one? It’s was no different for Republicans in 2016, i.e., conservatives believed our country was about to be “killed” (destroyed by a progressive agenda) and Trump, imperfect as he is, was the best person who could save it.
2020 won’t be any different: two ideologies clashing over the direction of a country that has endured many such clashes, e.g., FDR vs the isolationists, slavery vs. civil war....
Chuck Klein
https://chuckklein.com
***************************************************************************
Subject: Legal Questions
Date Sent: 30 Jul 2019
The 2019 SCOTUS ruled the Patent and Trademark Office could not deny trademarks it deemed scandalous (the trademark it denied: FUCT). Does this mean states are in violation of the 1st Amendment by refusing, say ... personalized license plates with vulgar words or meanings? The state, of course, could merely refuse to issue any personalized plates which would be a bummer for the vain as well as a revenue loss to the state. Could the state turn license plate control over to private enterprise to circumvent the ruling?
Background checks for all firearm purchases begs the questions 1) What value is the check on an 18-year-old who would not have a criminal history? 2) What value is the check on someone who passed the check and then 1,5,10 years later trips-out and goes on a killing spree with the gun that was legally purchased 1,5,10 years ago?
Does a public utility with an easement over private land have the right to cut trees outside of the easement if they, subjectively, believe those trees endanger their power line? That’s what Duke Energy has been doing on my property. I’ve stopped them until we negotiate the matter. I’ll let you know how it turns out.
Chuck Klein
https://chuckklein.com
***********************************************************
Subject: The Early Line
Date Sent: 23 July 2019
The Dems plan is to dismantle corporations that make billions in profits. What they fail to acknowledge is these profits go to the stockholders who pay taxes on this income and purchase goods that in turn stimulates the economy thus creating jobs. What isn't paid out as dividends goes to research and expanding the corporation’s business. Liberals claim the average worker doesn’t own stocks – if they have a 401K or any retirement plan they do.
Voters aren’t interested in plans – Trump won with a simple slogan: “Make America Great Again”.
Front runner Biden: Is it 35 years experience, or merely one year’s experience 35 times?
If Dems nominate a far left/socialist; it’s Trump in a landslide.
Look for a “draft Pelosi” campaign.
If Dems win, expect China to use the islands seized in the N. China Sea (under Obama) to further aspirations for greater military, economic and cyber world domination.
If Trump wins, trade balances improve while our enemies war-mongers stand down.
Chuck Klein
https://chuckklein.com
*****************************************************************************
Subject: Which Space?
Date Sent: 16 Jul 2019
The 50th anniversary of “One small step....” brings up the question what’s of greatest importance: outer space or inner space? I realize the significance outer space exploration has yielded for the communications and military, but that was then. Is today’s searching what’s-out-there over what’s-inside-this-planet justified?
It’s s about 8000 miles to the center of the earth, yet we have explored less than 25 miles below the surface and only in a few locations. We don’t even know the source and cause of volcanoes. Are warming oceans the result of undersea eruptions? Are earthquakes merely the shifting of massive tectonic plates or are they the result of some deeper sub-subterranean forces?
The moon, Mars and beyond might hold interesting facts about earth’s origins, but wouldn’t delving deep into this planet generate more beneficial information, not only quicker but cheaper? In other words, shouldn’t we be directing our money and searches into inner space?
These questions may seem rhetorical, but if we don’t answer them....
Chuck Klein
https://chuckkleinauthor.com
**************************************************************************
Subject: Four Score
Date Sent: 9 Jul 2019
In watching the DNC debates, I came away with the belief that both the Republicans and Democrats want to change America. The difference is the Dems want to change the fundamental structure while the Republicans want to change (return) to a more conventional format.
We are not – as has been touted - a nation laws; we are a nation of constitutions. In other words, if liberals want open borders, restricted income, free everything then the way to do that is via amendments to the Constitution – not by just passing laws.
If the 16th President were to address us today, it might sound like this: “We are now engaged in a great political war, testing whether this nation, so conceived and dedicated as a capitalist republic, can long endure. It is rather for us to be dedicated to the task remaining before us that we take increased devotion that this government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall accept and support our Constitution – including the duly elected - or we shall perish from the earth.”
Chuck Klein
https://chuckklein.com
***************************************************************************
Subject: Happy 4th
Date Sent: 2 Jul 2019
What Irving Berlin’s song lyrics, GOD BLESS AMERICA, means to me:
GOD BLESS AMERICA
And our troops, law officers and all of Her guardians.
LAND THAT I LOVE
Those who know this love are truly the Blessed People.
STAND BESIDE HER, AND GUIDE HER,
As God stands to safeguard us, we align ourselves shoulder to shoulder while bowing our heads in thanks for His protection and guidance.
THRU THE NIGHT WITH A LIGHT FROM ABOVE.
Dusk to dawn and sunrise to sunset, we are humbled by Her radiant supremacy and power.
FROM THE MOUNTAINS, TO THE PRAIRIES,
Forging straight up from the great prairies of gilded grain, like a church spire paying homage to the heavens, to symbolize our faith in Him.
TO THE OCEANS, WHITE WITH FOAM
Seas of Blessed People of all colors, each seeking the purity only She can bestow.
GOD BLESS AMERICA, MY HOME SWEET HOME.
May God continue to bless the Blessed People as this is their homeland forevermore.
Chuck Klein
https://chuckklein.com
********************************************************************
Subject: Save Us
Date Sent 25 Jun 2019
Rather than try to break-up the tech giants as Congress is threatening to do, perhaps it might be better to harness their expertise. These companies became mega-corporations because of innovative reasoning and free-market abilities.
Optimistically, Mr. Trump could convince them to utilize their think-tanks to create counters to such matters as, but not limited to: cyber-attacks, climate issues, doctored-Facebook, hacking, fake-news….There would be no government payment, just the same strategy FDR used with dollar-a-year men and big manufacturers during WWII.
The quid-pro-quo would be identical - saving America and in turn their own companies. In other words, we – all of us including corporations and their stock holders – are in danger of being brought down by the environment, social-media, electronic-sabotage and/or foreign-war-powers. Thus, taking advantage of these brilliant minds in our free-enterprise world, America will survive this crisis and retain its greatness.
Chuck Klein
https://chuckklein.com
******************************************************************************
Subject: News Sources
Date Sent: 18 Jun 2019
Most every day between 5-6pm we switch back & forth between Fox and CNN. The Five on Fox is enjoyable because they laugh a lot. My favorite is Juan Williams, not because he’s a Democrat, but because he’s out-numbered 4-1 and can still keep civil and humorous. Greg Gutfield is brilliant and funny. CNN’s Wolf Blitzer never so much as cracks a smile.
The first 15-minutes of Fox’s Bret Baier is a must before switching to the local weather and news on WCPO. Of the big three, we watch ABC due to David Muir being the least bias. NBC and CBS, subtle as it is, are clearly anti-Republican/Trump.
In addition, news comes from four weekly newspapers including the weekend edition of the WSJ. Our nightly routine is to put a sports game on TV - with the sound off - and read a mix of fiction and non-fiction books. Personally, I also read monthly magazines on subjects covering: police, guns, cars, trains and Popular Mechanics. Chuck Klein https://chuckklein.com
*****************************************************************************************
Subject: Drug Addiction
Date Sent: 11 Jun 2019
The drug epidemic portrayed in the book,
Dreamland, is all about addiction of MIDDLE and UPPER CLASS WHITE kids during the 1990s to 2016. The reader can only wonder why the decades before and during this time drug addiction of BLACK kids were ignored.
The opioid problem outlined in the book is due to three factors:
1) Pill mills/drug producers/sellers touting that Oxycodone was not addictive;
2) Liberal Medicaid eligibility which pays the bill;
3) Non-secure border allowing very sophisticated Mexican drug rings to flood the market with black-tar Heroin – a most lethal product;
Solutions:
1) Untie the hands of law enforcement by re-allowing such tactics as stop & frisk, profiling, less-restrictive surveillance methods...;
2) Give up trying to “save” the current generation of drug abuser and focus on educating grade-schoolers;
3) After HS graduation all must spend 2-years in the military. Everyone doesn’t to be a “soldier,” but all must be exposed to military discipline while the military intensifies learning a trade or preparing for college;
4) Re-criminalizing recreational drugs.
Chuck Klein
https://chuckklein.com
***********************************************************************
Subject: Jeopardy
Date Sent: 4 Jun 2019
We’ve watched Jeopardy off and on over the years, but the unprecedented run of contestant James Holzhaur had us daily fans. Here’s a couple of answers – see if you and get the question:
1) Category, Science: 186,000 miles x 3600 x 24 x 365.
2) Category, Americana: The last sign to a series of roadside highway signs such as: He saw the train - and tried to duck it – kicked first – the gas – and then the bucket.
3) Category, American novels: James Michener wrote many books, but this title not only became a Broadway musical, but a major motion picture.
4) Category, Sports: Boxing great Mohammad Ali taunted his opponents that he would, “Float like a butterfly ....”
>
>
>
>
>
1) What is a light-year? Or, what is the distance light travels in a year?
2) What is Burma Shave?
3) What is Tales of the South Pacific? (the musical and movie were titled only “South Pacific”).
4) What is Sting like a bee?
Chuck Klein
https://chuckklein.com
********************************************************************
Subject: They Also Serve
Date Sent: 27 May 2019
Memorial, Veterans and Independence;
Are American tear producing days;
When we honor our soldiers;
Past and present;
We are so blessed;
To have such patriotic citizens;
Who have unselfishly "served" this country;
So many times.
But right here on our soil;
And in highly visible positions;
Are others of every affiliation;
Who "serve" this great nation.
Everyday our first line of defense;
Our police officers and firefighters;
Unflinchingly "serve" at risks;
That cost some their livelihood, and lives.
There are, of course, far more;
Who "serve" America and Americans;
Monetarily and via countless philanthropic groups;
That contribute to our common good;
Complementing these benevolent associations;
Is a multitude of unorganized volunteers;
Who quietly "serve" at hospitals, libraries;
And the vast number of eclectic, charitable fund-raisers.
America is unique;
Inasmuch as this cadre of unpaid citizens;
Take such good care of each other;
That the impersonal socialization;
Found in other countries;
Is not needed here.
Many decent, law-abiding citizens;
The over-whelming majority of Americans;
Also "serve" their country:
By challenging unjust rules, standing up to wrong-doers;
Or facing down bullies.
If warfare ever threatens our front door;
There should be no doubt that our neighbors;
The ones who keep and bear arms;
Will stand back-to-back and shoulder-to-shoulder;
To tender their "service."
May God bless America and every American;
Where ever they may be;
And in whatever capacity they may "serve."
Chuck Klein
https://chuckklein.com
***************************************************************************
Subject: Allegiance Follow-Up
Date Sent: 22 May 2019
Last week’s editorial asked who would you save from drowning – a Christian Republican or a Jewish Democrat. I think it made a lot of people uncomfortable – especially those who have never been in a position where that might occur. Police officers, EMTs, firefighters have the mental makeup to make life or death decisions – and we are grateful such persons tend to gravitate to those professions.
Of the respondents to the subject email, many failed to make a decision or in direct conflict with the stated parameters inserted their own options and conditions such as: “closest person,” “least chance,” even religious dogma or implied let them both drown. A retired LEO wrote: “I would do the same as you ... You and I have both been in that simulated situation as peace officers. I’m glad I never had to make that kind of choice.” [Amen.]
Everyone holds some level of bias. Suppose the Christian Republican and the Jewish Democrat were reversed or replaced with a bald/gay/fat Republican and a long-haired/clean-cut/short Democrat or vice—versa or _____ & ____...?
Chuck Klein
https://chuckklein.com
***********************************************************************
Subject: Allegiance
Date Sent: 14 May 2019
I am – not in any order – American, Jewish, Republican. Before me are two people I personally know and respect who are drowning. I am able to save only one. One is an American Christian Republican, the other is a American Jewish Democrat. Which one do I save and why? There are no other options or conditions.
Historically, Jews have existed for over 6K years because, at the least, they have persevered by remaining loyal to their roots, the G-d of Abraham, while resisting conversions, assimilation, war, famine, pestilence, Holocausts and other dividing and conquering attacks. Christians pray to the same god and also trace their roots to Abraham, the first Jew, and have, likewise, survived centuries of persecutions. My answer below:
>
>
>
>
>
>
I would save the Christian because I consider him a Jew who might return to the “tribe” and it is important for him to remain as a Republican America – persons who are the best hope for protecting and preserving America, and in turn, the Jews and Israel. What would you do, and why?
Chuck Klein
https://chuckklein.com
********************************************************************************
Subject: Presidents
Date Sent: 7 May 2019
There are two types of political leaders: The Retailer – one who reacts to events much as a retail store owner who waits for the customer to come to him. The other, The Producer, creates events such as the manufacturer who makes goods and then seeks customers.
My views of Presidents during my lifetime:
Trump: Producer. Has gone after immigration, trade practices, judgeships....
Obama: Retailer. Though he produced the ACA, he was reactive on other matters.
GW Bush: Retailer who became a Producer by taking the war to the enemy.
Clinton: Retailer. Waited for the impeachment trial rather than resign.
GHW Bush: Producer. Engineered the successful Kuwaiti war.
Reagan: Producer. Brought down USSR and stimulated the economy with tax reform.
Carter: Producer. Though both major acts (Iran hostages - Middle East peace deal) were failures.
Ford: Retailer.
Nixon: Producer: Stopped the Vietnam war, resigned rather than wait for a trial.
LBJ: Producer: Hands-on Vietnam war acts, Great Society.
JFK: Producer: Won the space race, averted a military confrontation with USSR.
Eisenhower: Retailer: Let economy take it’s course.
Truman: Retailer: Though he had the guts to drop “the bomb” and terminate MacArthur, he waited for things to happen before acting.
FDR: Producer, extraordinaire: Saved the world from imperialism, aggressively worked to end the depression.
Chuck Klein
https://chuckklein.com
*************************************************************************
Subject: Getting Elected
Date Sent: 30 Apr 2019
Politics is about getting elected;
Getting elected is about raising money;
Raising money is about padding pockets;
Padding pockets is about getting elected.
The Democratic politicians have been touting tax-the-rich for generations. But spout off about it is all they do ‘cuz they’re rich and thus have no intention of giving up any of their wealth – it’s just a ploy to appeal to the non-rich. Have you ever heard of a politician retiring from public office who was not a multi-millionaire, much less broke?
Bernie Sanders is claiming all citizens, including convicts, are entitled to vote. This is no different than appealing to Hispanics, unions, evangelicals – the non-rich.... What could he promise a rapist, murderer, pedophile ... vote for me and I’ll set you free so you can prey on those not living in gated communities with armed security (politicians and rich) – then I can seek the vote of the law & order types. Gotta wonder why he doesn’t champion the vote for 17-year-olds - who are eligible to serve in the military. How ‘bout pre-teens – they’re citizens too?
Chuck Klein
https://chuckklein.com
***********************************************************************
Subject: LE Trends
Date Sent: 23 Apr 2019
Cameras – speed, red-light, surveillance, body... are ubiquitous. What’s new is police are using facial recognition images linked to BMV data bases. The technology is not perfected – yet – inasmuch as the system usually produces a 100 or so possible matches. The downside: you might be hauled in for questioning because you looked like the perp – or hackers... On the plus side: the cops will catch a bunch more shoplifters and maybe a murderer or two. Society (elected officials) will have to determine the worth and parameters of this new power.
Swatting (phoning/texting a hoax serious enough to dispatch the SWAT team) is becoming a serious problem - 100s of these expensive and dangerous pseudo pranks are answered yearly. Swatting may also be used by robbers or terrorist as a diversionary tactic. Fake calls claiming hostages, bomb threats or shootings tie-up officers that may be needed for legitimate calls.
Tactical Defense Institute, a certified Peace Officer Training Academy in Adams County, Ohio, has developed a program especially for training school personnel in dealing with active shooters on school campuses. The intense 3-day course: Faculty/Administrator Safety Training & Emergency Response (F.A.S.T.E.R.).
Chuck Klein
https://chuckklein.com
*************************************************************************************
Subject: AI
Date Sent: 16 Apr 2019
Think attempted Russia interference during the 2016 election was worrisome? We ain’t seen nothin’ yet. The ability to significantly enhance fake-news and control media, just in the past few years, has been greatly enhanced. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the coming G5 are creating a world where separating truth from untruth is becoming undetectable – unless you’re hooked up to a AI-reading-MRI – the ultimate lie-detector.
Using forgery, newspapers and clandestine radio stations during WW2, false information - that the recipient believed came from his own government - was called black propaganda. Today, via various media, it is possible to generated a perfect image and sounds-like voice of a government agent/politician fabricating fake-news – the new black propaganda. On the plus side, bad-guy destructive code can be de-coded by good-guy code writers – assuming one can tell the difference and in a timely manner. The upcoming EU elections might be indicative of our 2020 election.
AI also applies to computer-controlled systems that can over-ride mechanical structures such as the fly-by-wire Boeing 737MAX planes that resulted in recent catastrophic crashes. Nothing can go wrong, can go wrong, can go wrong....
Chuck Klein
https://chuckklein.com
********************************************************************************
Subject: Misc.
Date Sent: 9 Apr 2019
CLIMATE CHANGE: Fossil fuel pollution pales in comparison to the clearing of oxygen-producing rain forests for the purpose of cattle production to feed a growing world population. For example: From 2011-2016 the average loss of rain forests - in just Peru and the Ivory Coast, alone - was 840 square miles PER YEAR.
STATEHOOD: The poverty/migration crisis in Central, South America and the Caribbean might be averted by wooing these small independent nations to become states of the United States. As such, these new US citizens could travel freely throughout all the states while at the same time negating the possibility of a Russian/Chinese/communist take-over.
MARIJUANA: To purchase a firearm from a licensed dealer, you must answer this question on ATF
form 4473: “Are you an unlawful user of ... marijuana....?” The ATF then adds this warning: “The use or possession of marijuana remains unlawful under Federal law regardless of whether it has been legalized or decriminalized for medicinal or recreational purposes....” In other words, if you possess or ingest MJ and check the “yes” box you can’t purchase a gun. If you use/possess MJ and check the “no” box - that’s a criminal offense.
Chuck Klein (Licensed Federal Firearms Dealer)
https://chuckklein.com
***************************************************************************
Subject: Country Living
Date Sent: 2 Apr 2019
We’ve lived 13 years in a sparsely populated farming community where shopping at our local hardware, pharmacy, bank, post office… the personnel are usually waiting for us – not the other way around – and we’re greeted by name and with a smile. Waits to consult with our GP never exceed 15 minutes – including the staff check-in and processing. Blood tests are onsite and immediate.
The busiest place is the IGA where a checkout line is nonexistent, well maybe there might be one ahead of us during the busiest period. Driving time to town (county seat) on traffic-free, farm roads is about 12 minutes, if we miss both lights. Gas? It’s delivered to our own 300 gallon tank.
Of course, there are drawbacks: fire, police and life squad response can take 15 minutes – at best. However, when we consider the peace, quiet and privacy coupled with the no-waits and the only man-made light visible at night (cell tower) being two-miles away from our 125 acre forest, it’s well worth the trade-off. Come visit.
Chuck Klein
https://chuckklein.com
**************************************************************
Subject: New Amendment?
Date Sent: 26 Mar 2019
28th Amend
With the Democrats now in control of the House, regulations against guns and gun owners are being pushed. Perhaps, it might be a good time to introduce new legislation to clear-up some of the issues and concerns of all citizens.
I wrote such a suggestion in the form of a proposed Constitutional Amendment for the March 2019 edition of
The Gun Mag (also available on my website:
28th Amendment). However, it could very well be re-worded as a federal statute or even a Senate/Presidential resolution. This concept was originally tendered in my
June 2002 Guns & Ammo column. Please consider contacting your federal representatives with the concept.
Chuck Klein
https://chuckklein.com
******************************************************************
Subject: Jews & Politics
Date Sent: 19 Mar 2019
“I have never understood why the Jewish people in our country tend to vote for Democrats?” A question put to me numerous times by Christian friends and is more about the party than individual candidates. I believe: Jews, per se, abhor violence and are very charitable, altruistic and social-justice oriented. Democrat Jewish voters are educated, intelligent, honest and a trusting people, yet they are inclined to put greater faith in government and government officials (a pie-in-the-sky, socialist mindset) than do Republicans.
Democrats seem certain they know what’s best for the “deplorables” and forcing their will on them is not contrary to a Constitution they consider arbitrary. However, the Democrat Jews (at least subconsciously) may accept this liberal reasoning because of a “Holocaust Fear Complex” - conservatism leads to fascism.
Democrat American Jews and their alliance with the Democratic party is an enigma due to the party’s incivility, social-justice becoming political-correctness and gun controls that negate self/synagogue protection. Further evidence of this conflict is verified by Republican support for Israel while Democrats refuse to censure their congressional member who publicly denounced Jews and Israel. There are, of course, many Jewish Republicans and thus the pendulum may be swinging.
Chuck Klein, Jewish Republican
https://chuckklein.com
*******************************************************************************
Subject: Complex World
Date Sent: 12 Mar 2019
President G.W. Bush stated that the reason we invaded Iraq was based on our intelligence community’s report that Iraq had weapons of mass destruction. No WMD were ever found. Therefore, either our intelligence was wrong or perhaps Bush started the Iraqi war to fight the enemy over there rather than allow them to bring more death and destruction over here.
Democrats do not want America to sell arms to the Saudis because our intelligence community said their Crown Prince is guilty of murdering the journalist, Jamal Khashoggi. Are these the same intelligence agencies that advised #43 about the WMD? The Prince is now making nice with China and Russia which might mean these enemies will be getting the arms sale. In other words, is the death of one non-American citizen worth surrendering jobs to our enemies?
President Trump has been making a strong case to oust the communist leader of Venezuela who has lost an election to a non-communist reformer. Either Trump is backing the newly elected leader because he supports freedom or he wants – not Venezuelan oil for America – but a tactical move to keep the oil from communist countries such as Cuba.
Chuck Klein
https://chuckklein.com
****************************************************************************
Subject: Precedent
Date Sent: 5 Mar 2019
Michael Cohen has been convicted of lying to Congress. Now, it seems, he is being believed by the Democrat controlled Congressional Committee. The real fallout will be down the road when a jury – in a criminal case – will be urged to follow the precedent of these political leaders and trust a liar. No longer will the opposing side have the legitimacy to say: “if you lied once, why should we believe you now.”
There have been multiple accusations, sans credible evidence, that Trump is a racist/white-supremacist. Come on, his son-in-law is Jewish and he did move our embassy to Jerusalem. What keeps coming back to me is Trump’s Apprentice TV show where he set cutting-edge precedent by giving equal opportunity to blacks and women.
The Democrats are presenting an unprecedented number of bills attacking the 2nd Amendment. The reason the NRA (gun owners) are against gun control is the slippery slope, to wit: A few years ago the Dems got a law passed requiring a mandatory 3-day wait to purchase a firearm. Now, they want to extend it to 10-days. Tomorrow: ___ days/years/never.
Chuck Klein
https://chuckklein.com
*****************************************************************
Subject: Suppose
Date Sent: 26 Feb 2019
Notwithstanding barrel size, one rotten apple will spoil the whole barrel. Of course, if 60% of the apples are rotten, then barrel size is inconsequential.
Suppose you and nine others live on an island where the only water is in a cache (called “C”) replenished with direct rain and run-off from the upside of the “C”. All 10 people on the island are individualist inasmuch as they grow, raise and catch their own food and mine their own raw materials. Of the 10, one (10%), a non-ecofriendly, lives in the run-off area whose waste and tailings are washed into the “C”. Perhaps, the “C” can absorb this lone polluter's pollution. But, what if six (60%), who are also not ecofriendly, live in the run-off area? Would the other four (40%) be justified in waging war to save “C? If not, what ratio, do you suppose, is justifiable?
Substitute “C” for seas; island for planet earth; 60% for the population of China, Russia and India and 40% for rest of the world. All the Green New Deals and conservation restrictions placed on the 40% would be of no consequence to the survival of planet earth.
Chuck Klein
https://chuckklein.com
*********************************************************************
Subject: Domination
Date Sent: 19 Feb 2019
Once the Romans ruled the western world,
Ditto the British while China controlled the east.
A century of free markets and industrial innovation,
Propelled America’s domination to say the least.
Now, however, thanks to our open universities and trustworthiness, China and Russia are jockeying for global control. We’re not part of this equation for one simple reason: Bureaucracy. Today, adjusting to rapidly changing conditions without having to resort to endless committees, law suits and Congressional approval, restricts the President’s lead-time. Our enemies – with only a dictator to call-the-shots - have an extreme advantage.
Plan A: Change the Constitution to do away with Congress – all power to the President who will be for all intents and purposes the Potentate, Ruler, Emperor, Dictator (PRED). That is not to say, we the people, give up our right to vote him/her out of office ... but while in power all decisions are final. In other words, and for example, if the PRED orders open/closed borders to all ______, then that’s the law until a future PRED reverses that law. Elections can be every ______ year(s). Plan B: Learn to speak Chinese or Russian.
Chuck Klein
https://chuckklein.com
******************************************************************************
Subject: Weighted
Date Sent: 12 Feb 2019
When the media allows Hollywood/sports stars, using their status/exposure, to spew political dogma, it’s a form of weighted reporting. With the exception of Fox News, the media, per se, has become overly weighted toward the left.
Adding to this is the overt influence of a weighted, left-leaning education system. Those who have never experienced firsthand capitalism tend to teach progressivism. This is not to say all educators are so liberal minded that they impart their political beliefs on impressionable youth ... but it is surely weighted that way.
The solution might be to establish an exchange program whereas individual media personnel, educators, government workers and for-profit corporation employees swap jobs for an period of time. In other words, say, a college professor would spend x week(s) working as a manager for a private company; while the replaced manager works for a government bureaucracy; whereas the swapped bureaucrat does a stint as a news reporter; as the news reporter guest lectures at a college. Every x week(s) these positions would rotate with different participants in a like/reverse manner. Exploiting the opportunity to walk in another’s shoes could be beneficial to the walker as well as the destination.
Chuck Klein
https://chuckklein.com
*****************************************************************************
Subject: Messiah
Date Sent: 5 Feb 2019
Messiah: Any expected savior or liberator of a people or country ( Webster’s New World Dictionary 3rd College Ed.).
The following is an academic exercise to consider the possibility that Moses was the Messiah of the Hebrews and hence Christianity, per se. Please don’t take offense or take this personal:
* He invoked the miracle of G-d’s power to bring the Ten Plagues upon his peoples’ oppressors;
* He rallied his people to exit the land of their oppressors;
* He performed the miracle of parting the Red Sea to facilitate the Exodus;
* He kept his people together for 40 years searching for the Promised Land;
* G-d handed down to him, and him alone, the 10-Commandments;
* G-d spoke directly to him on more than one occasion;
* He brought his people to the Promised Land.
If not for G-d there would have been no Adam and Eve;
If not for Adam and Eve, there would have been no Abraham;
If not for Abraham, there would have been no Moses;
If not for Moses, there would be no Jews;
If not for Jews, there would be no Christians.
Chuck Klein
http://chuckklein.com
***********************************************************************
Subject: Celebration?
Date Sent: 29 Jan 2019
Congratulations Nancy and Chuck, you won the battle. You did what you set out to do – stop Trump from building the wall and delivering his State of The Union Message. However, it is not Trump who’s the loser, it’s our nation’s integrity that was lost. Using third-world tactics of media control and endless investigations into a duly elected sitting President, you lost the war - the war of ensuring secure borders and strength in the eyes of our enemies.
Mistakes of the heart
Trump did make,
As he believed securing
Our border was no fake.
Democrats bent on winning,
Committed crimes of the mind,
Where victory was paramount,
Of the premeditated kind.
Championing a battle won
By usurpation of the press,
And harassment of fellow diners,
Has made democracy a real mess.
Go ahead and sing praises to the victors,
Snub the deplorables and profess your hate.
For when all the celebrations are done,
You will have sealed America’s fate.
Chuck Klein
https://chuckklein.com
**************************************************************************
Subject: 5/3 Atrium Shooting
Date Sent: 22 Jan 2019
On a calm, nothing-happening September 2018 day, an active shooter carrying a handgun and dressed in inconspicuous pants and shirt, normal attire for late summer, entered the Fifth/Third Bank and Office building in downtown Cincinnati where he randomly opened fire on innocent persons. As the people around him dove for cover, the gunman walked through the lobby as casually as someone arriving to make a deposit or take the elevator to any of the upper floors of this 30-story facility.
He is walking away from you and immediately turns around a corner toward the floor-to-ceiling display windows. Do you ... To read my entire published article and view the photos (courtesy of the Cincinnati Police Department):
The Gun Mag
Chuck Klein
https://chuckklein.com
************************************************************************
Subject: Trump Plan B?
Date Sent: 15 Jan 2019
1) Now, more than two years into his first term, Trump, tenders to the Senate and House that he is unable to discharge the powers and duties of his office. This is NOT his resignation and the Constitution does not require he give a reason or define his “disability”.
2) V.P. Mike Pence then becomes Acting President. This will enable Democrats and Republicans the ability to get-over the “Wall/Shutdown” issue without either side losing face.
3) Trump will still be able to work with/thru Pence to further his agenda and could at any point declare he is no longer “disabled” and then resume the office of Presidency.
4) The Republican 2020 ticket could be either Trump/Pence or Pence/Trump and they could pull the switch when it suits them (as long as the Republicans hold at least one house of Congress). The 22nd and 25th Amendments do not limit the number of times this “switch” can take place.
Chuck Klein
https://chuckklein.com
********************************************************************
Subject: Fitness
Date Sent: 8 Jan 2019
My good friend, Gerry Addington of Phoenix AZ, ends he emails: “Life's journey is not to arrive at the grave safely in a well-preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways, totally worn out, and shouting . . . holy cow what a ride!"
On the other hand is a favorite WSJ Salt & Pepper cartoon showing a decrepit, old man lying in a hospital bed with wires attached and tubes running out of him. The caption of the doctor standing next to him: “You know all those extra years you were going to get by living a clean, sheltered, healthy life ... these are it”.
My father never exercised a day in his life, except during the 12 years he served in the National Guard. He lived to be 97. Me? If I’m cashed out tomorrow, I won’t have any regrets because in addition to daily exercises (to keep from pulling a muscle), I’m running tractors and chainsaws and stuff - doing what I want to do and that’s more important than longevity. My greatest fear: A nursing home!
Chuck Klein
http://chuckklein.com
******************************************************************************
Subject: The Wall
Date Sent: 5 Jan 2019
Politics notwithstanding, this might put Trump’s “Wall” (barrier) in perspective:
Trust, not Gates
Gates before Fences
Fences before Barriers
Barriers before Threats
Threats before Guns
Guns before War
War before Death
Death before Dishonor
Dishonor before Annihilation?
I wrote this in 1983 – still holds true today.
Chuck Klein
http://chuckklein.com
************************************************************************
Subject: Broke?
Date Sent: 1 Jan 2019
The old adage: “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” requires the definition of “broke.” Democrats tended to think all is okay, as in: “it ain’t broke.” Trump, and those who support him, believe “broke” is defined as:
1) Unfair trade practices,
2) NoK/Iran with nukes,
3) The Supreme Court making law,
4) Open borders,
5) Imperialist moves by China and Russia,
6) NATO countries not paying their fair share.
Previous administration, going back to Bill Clinton, had kicked-the-can to the next regime. Nobody wanted to deal with the political fallout that comes with confrontations.
Yes, DJT is unorthodox – maybe embarrassing and obnoxious at times - but he’s doing what his supporters elected him to do. Of course, the only true measure of his support/non-support is at the ballot box. The past mid-term election was a draw - not the “blue wave” the Democrats had wished for. In two years, the electorate can decide which ideology to follow. In the meantime, hopefully, the Democrat controlled House will use its power to “fix broke” – not vindictively.
Chuck Klein
http://chuckklein.com
*********************************************************************************