Pinky Rocko

As I said in my earlier post, Hillary Clinton finally stepped aside and expressed her support of Barack Obama for the Democratic nomination for the Presidential Election this November ‘08. It is now the beginning of the Democratic hate-fest sponsored by the Republicans.

In the news, there are numerous articles outlining the beginning stages of the hate wheel rolling all over Obama. For instance, right wing social conservative Fox News headlines that “Johnson Steps Down From Obama VP Team, Marking First General Election Casualty” falsely implying that Johnson, who was on the team Obama is using to vet for his vice president candidate, is somehow plays a bigger role than that. Apparently, by keeping Johnson on the team would indicate that Obama is hypocritical and by getting rid of him, Obama is caving into pressure. I appreciate Obama’s honest response that in this campaign - there’s no time to vet the vetters, especially in this writer’s opinion, there are so many important issues facing America. Nonetheless, there’s no stopping Fox New’s residential hate bomber, Michelle Malkin, from name-calling, innuendos and all around attacking Obama for being “best friends” with Johnson, and through some unnamed sources has managed to get special treatment in one loan in 1998. No revelation of sources, just lots of hating. There’s no winning with these Obama haters.

Another FOX News headline, “Does Obama Really Not Mind High Gas Prices (As Observed by GOP)?” stating that Obama believes that America should shoulder the high costs of oil, when in actuality, he is stating that it should be a gradual increase. John McCain’s campaign has ignored the fact that they just voted for Big Oil profits and their cronies in the White House want to increase the supply of oil, making prices lower, but at the same time, increasing America’s dependence and consumption of oil. Is that really a solution to the problem? Leave it to Fox News to distort and twist the truth. At least Obama is looking for a long term solution to ease America from its dependence and focus on green alternatives and alternative fuels. Where are the right wing conervatives’ solutions? Oh right, they want to reduce gas prices by a few cents, thereby giving them the sound bite to declare they have the people’s interest at heart.

To further distort and spread lies, Malkin has gone on air and called Barack Obama’s wife, Michelle, “Obama’s bitter half.” This is based on Michelle Obama’s comments about how she’s never been so proud of America as she is now. While her husband’s people quickly clarified her statement to mean that she’s proud of the way America has responded to this election year, with record turn outs from young voters and minority voters - Malkin did not miss an opportunity to dispense her hate bombs in the foray to advance her own agenda. Malkin constantly picks on peripheral issues and take things out of context to advance her own neo-nazi conservative voice.

In case you have not heard some of her arguments, here’s a sample -she thinks the Japanese internment was not only justified, but was also necessary in the name of national security. Another issue? Lets deport illegal immigrants, even those who may have professional degrees and lived in the United States for decades, even those who have paid their taxes and have United States citizen children - all in the name of national security. Oh, and she also believed the John Kerry, back in the 2004 election, had shot himself intentionally while in the Vietnam War so that he could undeservingly receive the three purple hearts. All from either unnamed sources, or sources that have since recanted, and further hateful allegations.

I digress. Now it’s just between Barack Obama and John McCain, but don’t think that it will be a clean fight from hereon. Better take off those kiddie gloves because the smear campaign has only just begun.

It’s finally official that Barack Obama will prevail in the Democratic nomination for the Presidential election in November ‘08. Perhaps now the overzealous media will cease chattering on about when Hillary Clinton will concede, how will she do it, and why she has not done it already. Instead of focusing on meaningful issues such as her substantial overhaul of health care, education, social security, and the puttering economy, the last few months has been about irrelevant, superficial headlines aimed at targeting the woman, not the candidate.

While Barack Obama is a strong candidate,with an idealistic attitude about the new direction for the White House, much more publicity has been focused on Hillary Clinton’s other running mate, Bill, her misty eye moment on the trail, her comment regarding Martin Luther King Jr. (which was taken out of context), and debate on her ability to lead because she is a female - rather than Barack Obama’s association and loyalty to his volatile, racist minister and his light experience in politics. The media outlets have lambasted Clinton and have been screaming for her to quit when statistically, she was leading in the popular vote and had substantial votes from delegates. She was not without bargaining power and her legitimacy was ratified by the strong support of women voters and workers of all ethnicity across the nation.

Rather than target pertinent, contentious issues such as the war in Iraq, commentators such as correspondent David Shuster from MSNBC interviewed two guests about Chelsea Clinton’s role in her mother’s campaign as in some way “pimped out in some weird sort of way.” This sort of language and dialogue is reminiscent of the Rush Limbaugh days during Bill Clinton’s administration where he insulted Chelsea Clinton by calling her ugly and compared her to a dog. This sort of exchange is infantile and belongs in the school yard.

It is a personal attack with sexist undertone to debate an topic such as looks from a candidate’s family, absolutely impertinent to the how effective that candidate may be in office. Further,  Chelsea Clinton is an adult and was supporting her mother’s campaign which has been insinuated that it is in some way a form of prostitution. Barack Obama’s wife, Michelle Obama, who has appeared on numerous news outlets in support of her husband’s campaign was not mentioned in the same program from MSNBC.

Again, we recall that Bill Clinton was dragged into the political foray when he made some comments about his wife’s substantial political experience and a better candidate for the presidency than Barack Obama - yet the media bombarded Hillary Clinton with questions regarding whether she would be able to “control” the other candidate if she were in office. Barack Obama was not attacked with the same furor regarding whether his wife would be a power player distraction in the White House. Not to say that Michelle Obama should be waging war with the media for the same treatment, but lets play fair. What’s good for the gals is certainly good enough for the guys.

Perhaps Hillary Clinton was an easier political target than Barack Obama, and it could be possible that Clinton made a harder sell for the White House due to her previous track record. Yet, throw in there media bias and a journalist’s preference for Barack Obama and we have a sexist, unfair campaign that has run rampant in United States media outlets in the last few months. Now journalists will focus on the divisive effect Hillary Clinton caused because she waited till now to concede - lets focus on this instead of actual issues people care about.

It has gotten to the point now where every celebrity gossip columnists will fight tooth and nail to slam celebrities for every photo op and every mishap that is caught on tape or film. While there are numerous financial reasons for such action, lets note that most of this exploitation is centered around female celebrities

Case in point, have we not heard enough about Britney Spears? While we are more than happy to sneer and cajole about the mishaps of Ms. Spears and her excess 20 lbs, but what happened to her deadbeat husband, Kevin Federline, who is dropping $2,000 tips in Las Vegas when his average gross income is merely $24,000! WTF? Can men really criticize what they have little to go by, such as putting on weight when you have children back to back? How many women actually can put on a size 8 or 10 after 6 months of giving birth to their second child in the last 24 months? It’s actually quite unfair to even compare the notion.

Why are we constantly attacking our female counterparts when our male counterparts are equally liable and responsible? Take the latest incident of celebrity exploitation where we are criticizing Lindsay Lohan and Paris Hilton for being skanks and illegitimate whores when we do not categorize their male companions for the same deed. Sex in rehab is not a one man job, especially for Lindsay Lohan, and Hilton with the latest member of Good Charlotte did not happen because she was a solo practitioner. Lets drop the sexism people because men are just as whore-ish as women yet they do not get half the backlash. While I’m more than happy to bash celebrity whores, I want to make it an equal opportunity basher. Don’t hold back because they are male, apply the same principle or else don’t do it. If we’re going to criticize someone for their weight, sexual preference, and public persona, apply it regardless of their gender. At least then we know that we are not differentiating indiscriminately.

U.S. researchers recently announced that when it comes to living longer, fitness is the key. Apparently, men and women who were fit, albeit overweight or obese, tend to have a lower mortality risk than those of normal weight but lower fitness level. This research was judged on a treadmill test tracking 2,600 people age 60 and up, examining how physical fitness and body fat affected their death rates in 12 years.

The study showed that even a modest effort to improve physical activity can provide health benefits, the researchers said. Those in the bottom fifth in terms of fitness were about twice as likely to die than those in the next fifth.

More than a third of U.S. adults are obese, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Obesity is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease, certain types of cancer and the most common form of diabetes, the CDC said.

The CDC also has found that more than half of adults do not engage in regular physical exercise. Exercise cuts the chances of dying of coronary heart disease, as well as lowering the risk for stroke, colon cancer, diabetes and high blood pressure, the CDC said.

Any activity can increase your life span, even if it’s just for your mental health. Additionally, a healthy diet with no smoking or drinking vastly improves your quality of life and give you more energy combined. Given that these studies are not new or groundbreaking, why is it so many people are obese and disinclined to work out? Quite possibly the era we live in includes fast food, plenty of it and for nearly nothing the cost, and the heavy marketing from diet pill companies trumping quick fixes to weight loss. Instead of sweating it out in the gym or taking the stairs, many turn to diet fads and miracle diet pills, which may give them temporary weight loss but at the risk of jeopardizing their health and inevitably, even more weight gain when the pill is discontinued.

So study after study will show that fitness is essential in daily life, and may prolong life, yet many will turn to drastic dietary measures before hitting the gym. Bangkok is an example of fitness, but it’s more due to necessity than excess as many Bangkokians are more likely to walk than to travel by car. Then again, have you seen the traffic here? What sets Bangkokians apart is their diet, low in fat and portion control being key in their lifestyle. Even though there is a patent trend in obesity in the younger generation due to fast food and Western franchise influences, mortality rate in Thailand is generally lower than that of other Asian nations.

No magic pill, just hard work.

“Blogging can help you feel less isolated, more connected to a community and more satisfied with your friendships, both online and face-to-face, new Australian research has found.” ABC

This is wonderful news! This study shows that blogging actually improves your social life with a greater sense of belonging to a group of like-minded people and feeling more confident. The good news also extends to users of social networking sites, with the study finding than any online interaction makes users “feel less anxious, depressed and stressed.” TechCrunch

The research, from Swinburne University of Technology in Melbourne, found after two months of regular blogging, people felt they had better social support and friendship networks than those who did not blog.

To all the people thinking about starting a blog or have neglected their blog, I say, blog on!

According to a study from Kennesaw State University in Georgia, women smokers who were extremely critical about their appearance were 35 percent less likely to say they wanted to quit over the next year than those with a healthier outlook. The study author, Sean Stickney, Ph.D. said the reason may be that they were afraid of gaining weight when they stopped smoking. He suggests that if that’s one of the main concerns then talk to a physician or mental health expert. Besides the health risks of smoking, having a distorted view of the body leaves you vulnerable to depression.

Quitting smoking may be easier now that Bangkok instituted their smoking ban in restaurants and pubs. While the Bangkok Post reports that the ban will not be heavily enforced and bars will not be fined until June 1, many restaurants and pubs enforced the ban on February 11 and some have created smoking areas outside the dining area. Aside from making it easier to quit smoking as it’s not as easily combined with drinking, the government should make smoking a stigma, thereby smokers become social outcasts and what better way to get one to quit than by peer pressure. Create public health commercials and educate the public on the abject harm of smoking. As for gaining weight, a few pounds will not kill you as fast as smoking can and will. Alternatively, exercising can shed those extra pounds you gain when you quit smoking, leaving you with a better self image and keep depression at bay.

If you’re stressed out and don’t even have time for a manicure, you have to create a haven of tranquility in the places where you spend the most time. According to Lisa Earle McLeod, author of Finding Grace When You Can’t Even Find Clean Underwear, you need to find your peace wherever you’re at. For instance, in your car, pack a healthy snack to help ease the munchies while you’re stuck in traffic. In Bangkok, you can pick up fresh fruit from the vendors along almost every street. Walk toward any public transport or shopping center and you’re bound to run into vendors with juicy red melons, sweet mangos, and ripe pamelo. You can also ease your mind by listening to relaxing music or a motivational audiobook. Try classical music! In your home, you need to designate a “me space” in which you can relax for a few minutes without being reminded of chores, or complaining kids, or needy husbands. This may be your bathroom, the balcony, or even the kitchen. In your office, stock your desk area with cozy slippers or a mood boosting live plant. Try standing up and stretching your back, neck, and shoulders several times a day to get rid of pent-up tension.

Apply that to Bangkok and you need to either get a weekly massage from a reputable massage parlor or simply go nuts from the Bangkok hustle bustle of traffic and pollution. You can also find that exercising a few minutes a day will help you organize your thoughts and relieve a bit of chaos in your mind, not to mention burning a few calories for a healthier, happier you. If you don’t have time to exercise and in need of a stress reliever, try and leave Bangkok for a few days and enjoy the many glorious, white sandy beaches or national parks for some R&R time.

Every time I encounter a situation outside my control and I’m baffled or frustrated, I try to breath deeply and think positive thoughts. I used to count to about 50, not 10 like most people, and in different languages so to delay reaching 50. Evidently, there’s research to show that positive thinking may help to yield a longer life span based on a healthier mental state and thus, contributing to physical well-being. Even if it doesn’t, logically you can deduce that it at least will counter some of the factors contributing to an early death, such as air pollution and second hand smoke which are ubiquitious in Bangkok. So I’d like to think anyway.

Positive thoughts has really been key in my survival in Bangkok. Like the other day when I nearly twisted my ankle and scratched my right foot when I walked passed a cable pole in the middle of the sidewalk. It was an awful Thai conspiracy. The uneven sidewalk involuntarily guided me into the pole, which was cemented in the middle of the pavement. As I screeched to a halt to avoid smacking into it headon, my right foot ended up scrapped by the sharp metal wires hanging loosely at the bottom of the pole. Tiny specks of blood squirted out from the right sandal. Prepared to curse the Thais for constructing such a moronic pavement and laziness for not putting the cables underground, I decided to breath and thought to myself, this is the reason why God gave me two feet instead of one and the blood is to remind me of how lucky I am that I have two feet and brought plenty of antibiotics from the States.

On a different day, I decided to sign up for Chinese lessons. I paid a Thai school for Chinese lessons and after attending two classes and realizing the class was not suitable for me, I asked for a reduced refund of my fees. The teacher informed me that not only was I not getting a refund but I actually owed the school money as I did not pay the entire amount upon signing up for the class. As I slowly counted (in Chinese) to 100, I smiled at the teacher, and said, perhaps we can find another way to use the money I paid. It wasn’t a lot of money but it was only two lessons and I only just paid her 80% of the tuition two days earlier. Thinking positive thoughts and forcing myself to smile, I thought to myself, poor woman must need the money more than me and besides, I am contributing to the local Thai economy.

More often than not I’m walking along the main road, Sukhumvit, and inhaling the smog and pollution emitted by the many public buses, taxis, trucks, motorbikes, and street vendors. When I arrive at my destination with a slight headache and smelling like I’ve been working in the factory, I always tell myself, bless the Thais for their driving skills and not running me over today.

A plane carrying 130 passengers bound for the popular tourist destination of Phuket, Thailand skidded on the runway, broke in half and bursted into flames as it came to a stop. Of the 130 passengers on board, there are at least 42 survivors and some with serious burns covering 60 percent of their body.

Survivors reportedly broke windows to climb out amidst the fire, smoke, and debris. While it is too soon to determine the cause of the crash, there are speculations stemming from poor weather and low visibility, as well as doubts on the standards of safety for aircraft from Southeast Asia. There are international interests in this matter as most of the travelers are from the UK, Australia, Germany, and Iran to name a few. People are scrambling to find out if there loved ones were on this flight, and the Bangkok Post has listed the names of all passengers on their website at www.BangkokPost.com. They also note those that are hospitalized, but the complete list is there.

Thailand has suffered through a crippling natural disaster and phenomenal political upheaval in the last few years, with the tsunami of 2004 claiming nearly 8,000 lives and the military coup ousting the prime minister in 2006. It’s a testament to the Thai people and people who have lived in Thailand for any amount of time, that even in the face of deep conflict and horrific tragedy, people stay peaceful, calm and kind.

Six months on and it seems much longer. The noise no longer a painful nuisance, the uneven pavement now a quaint charm to the city, and the language no longer seems fatuous. It is starting to feel like home (gasp!!!).

Hubby unnaturally enjoys his technology job, especially the extensive social obligations attached to it on a weekly basis. Most night it’s quite uneventful as he’s working late and has no time after work to stay keen on remember people’s names and faces. If it’s not working long hours, hubby spends his free nights playing pool and drinking beer. To be fair, his time is well balanced compared to expats in Bangkok who spend an inordinate amount of time and money entertaining clients at the cost of their family time. Hubby spends as much time at home as possible with a healthy balance of friends and work commitment.

For yours truly, employment has been no easy task. It has been a formidable challenge, albeit worthwhile, and has finally brought about the desired result - revenue. The road to this junction was not paved with luck or genius, but hardwork confounded with perseverance. After six months of establishing a network of professional colleagues in the region, my goal of starting my own business has come to fruition.

Living in Bangkok does not have to be an arduous experience. With a healthy dose of flexibility and humor, anyone can thrive in this exotic culture. British food abound, delectable Thai food at every corner, and small elephants wandering the streets begging for a little treat from retreating tourists, it has to be a requisite experience for any globe trotter.

This is a fantastic venue to take your family and friends to if they are passing through Bangkok, Thailand and want to sample some exquisite Thai dining while watcing a Thai dance. The Oriental has a long history of providing the hi-so of Bangkok with fine cuisines, incomparable services and hospitality, so their latest refurbishment of the Sala Rim Naam Restaurant is no exception.

From the moment you walk through the door you can sense the palpable history, texture, and uniqueness of the hotel. No details lost on the staff and the presentation.

We arrived for a 7 p.m. show and dinner, expecting it to be a slow evening as it was Sunday evening and the dark clouds were looming overhead. To my surprise, and the surprise of my companions Steve, Michelle, and Gary, the place was packed with hungry patrons eager to partake in the festivities.

We were seated at the best table in the restaurant so that our view of the show was not obstructed in the slightest with much gratitude to the general manager. The staff brought out the house wine, which was not a mere average house wine as it was a Kingston 2005 Australian Merlot that was quaint-essential in its fruity and clean taste. The wine was complimented with roast duck dumplings and a fish mousse with a tangy sauce on the side. The fish mousse was fresh, yet spiced just enough for the palate to enjoy without leaving too strong of an after-taste. It complimented the roast duck and did not overpower the subtle aroma of the meat.

The next course was a combination of a beef musaman, fish soup, fresh stir-fry vegetables, and fragrant jasmine rice on a plate of fried shrimp. At onset we were uncertain whether this combination of curry and onslaught of fish and shrimp would negate the taste senses to overdrive, but much to our surprise, it was a keen choice of spices and delectable, complimentary dishes.

Moving onto a dessert of fresh fruits and coconut ice cream with mung beans, we were refreshed and rejuvenated by the Thai dancers as they eloquently express their love story through their subtle body movements and the assistance of the musicians. It was a lovely depiction of a love story of ancient time wherein the dancers user facial expression and the slight movements of their hands to suggest the dialogue and communication.

At the end of the evening, the boat picked us up and returned us across the river to the Oriental Hotel. This memorable excursion should be experienced as an evening package of cultural entertainment, sublime food and wine, and always with good companions. Thanks to Steve and Michelle for inviting us!

R. Kelly’s trial has been delayed, again. This would mark five years since charges were brought agains the rap artist for child pornography and a slew of other child related charges.

In the more than five years since he was charged, Kelly’s career and popularity have soared. He has produced several hit CDs, gone on tour and recently released the latest installments of his highly successful video serial “Trapped in the Closet.” In fact, the lastest promotion is the follow up to “Trapped in the Closer.”

Apparently, the case has been fraught with problems with the attorneys involved in the case. It was either the defense attorney had other clients , injured in some accident, arguing pretrial constitutional motions, or now, the Assistant State Attorney is on maternity leave. While Kelly is in no rush to expedite the case as it doesn’t jeopardize his rights, but whatever happened to swift, expeditious trial and justice?

Two words come to mind, celebrity justice. As in most high-profile cases, the justice system turns into a special ed system wherein in loses its sense of decor and procedural integrity to cater to the accused celebrity. Be it with celebrity or high ranking officials, justice tastes different for the Joe schmoes of society. There are no special entrance for the average Joe, no special accommodations, no special meals, and no special justice.

Our only justice is that people like Paris Hilton are made poster criminals so to sanctify the reckless and rich. For Hilton, her drunk driving and reckless driving only side-issued the fact that she made a mockery of the Los Angeles prosecutor’s office and so she had to be made an example of. Even Anderson Cooper was disgusted and incredulous at the distasteful coverage that CNN was endowing on Paris Hilton. While truly saddened by the events that unfolded, there was a part of me that was jubilant when they hauled her back to court to take her back to the slammer. Nothing like justice served with an equal opportunity enforcer.

Kelly has an arduous and formidable legal obstacle to surmount. Celebrity status aside, if he is found guilty of the charges, he deserves the same punishment that average Joe would receive. Average Hoe might not profit from the notoriety of a pending criminal trial and may not be able to produce a blockbuster album called “Trapped in the Closet,” but at least he’s free. That’s what the last five years has been about for Kelly. Being free and making millions so he can pay his dream legal team to postpone the case as much as possible r the expeditious legal system.

Just because he’s popular rap artist and rich does not preempt him from the blind lady of justice, even if it takes five years to get him before her.

Feelings of hopelessness and inadequacy. People feel this way regardless of their economic disposition, biological makeup, and extraordinary possessions. Every once in a while…

Being down. Not sure how to get up and change your disposition, or whether there’s enough inclination to succeed in the minute of tasks.

Unhappy with the sublime endowment of true love, warm affection, and attention.

Substandard volume of self appreciation and perspective may hinder any meaningful enjoyment of hardwork.

People may observe the tremendous “luck” in your life and perplexed by the outbursts of rage and insecurities in your voice, but they don’t know that nothing in life has to do with luck. It has to do with hardwork and following through. But now what?

Every goal accomplished before the age of 28, and every ambition fulfilled by the age of 32. Now what?

Now, depression.

Now, feelings of hopelessness and inadequacy.

Local: This sucker here, we can make alot of money ripping her off!

Sucker: Did I mention that I understand your language and I have no intention of paying you triple the going rate for a 20 minute car ride to my hotel?

Local: Only $10 and I can drive you the 5 blocks to your destination. Easy money when it comes to these foreigners.

Sucker: What a minute. I can see my hotel from here and do I look like I’m carrying a large bag of money on my back?

Local: You want your shoes shine? It’s only $2.

Sucker: Great price! However, I’m wearing tennis shoes! You want to shine my walking/running trainers?

Local: I need to charge you tax and VAT on top of the taxes that you will be paying. We agreed to this in the email.

Sucker: Your email said that this was the total amount, including taxes and VAT. Do you know what included mean? It means it’s already calculated.

Local: Oh, well I will have to get back with you on that after I look up this word “included.”

Local: Yes, we have a restaurant on the top level, but we don’t serve food up there.

Sucker: Then that’s not a restaurant, is it? You just have tables up there for what reason?

Local: Just tables so you can sit, eventhough our website saids we have two restaurants. Oh and there’s no light up there either so I wouldn’t go up there after dark.

In all honesty, we have better sense than to expect equal services and quality in a less than developed country, but it’s quite frustrating when you are subjected to such a moronic double standard. It’s discrimination in the most demeaning and asinine fashion. Just because we are in another country does not mean we want to indulge you in ripping us off. The obvious reason given is that everyone is just trying to make a living, but my response to you is there’s nothing wrong with making an honest living. Most of us are more than happy to pay up to 40% over the going rate when we travel to modest countries, it’s inherent in being a tourist, but double or triple is absolutely unacceptable.

Haggling has become a mechanism for deceit and a vehicle for dishonesty. There’s no integrity in haggling as one party always starts extremely high and the other party starts too low. The party that wants to sell the service or merchandise knows that it’s not the fair rate and the party that is considering purchasing is uncertain about whether it’s the fair rate. Ultimately, the bargaining party walks away feeling like they negotiated a fair price through the “art” of haggling, when in essence they are paying the fair market value, but only after going through the process of negotiating it. The item is priced based on its value to the purchaser, not it’s actual value based on the economic model of supply and demand. It’s an unfair, unscrupulous system that penalizes the purchaser.

This is what some of us end up doing. We buy substandard souvenirs at inflated prices at the airport, before we catch our flight home. At least we KNOW they are being honest about ripping us off. We both enter the arrangement with the same understanding, seller doesn’t pretend to sell us anything at a discount and purchaser knows that’s the price you pay when you buy tourist items at the airport. Both parties know it’s inflated, unfair, and lining the pockets of big business, but at least we don’t have to haggle.

Bloggers worldwide are rejoicing with the latest news from the Oval office that Karl Rove’s resignation will be effective August 31, 2007. Rove is a political genius, but what makes him this revered and villified, is the notorious and underhanded way that he manipulates U.S. domestic politics. Nonetheless, the past few months Rove was defeated on two controversial and poignant policies; comprehensive immigration reform and the privatization of social security. Both were miserably defeated and hammered by opponents of the Bush administration for its neo-conservative position and overreaching principles. While the spirit of the law was laudable, Rove could not convine the small opposition Republican to come on board.

Rove masterminded America’s electoral process, evidence of which has befallen on the likes of Al Gore in 2000, and John Kerry in 2004, but whether you like or dislike the man, his intellectual manipulation behind the Bush administration has been revolutionary. He relentlessly tormented the left and, at every corner he prevailed. He massacred Al Gore’s reputation and any influence he may have had with the “information highway”, accused former President Bill Clinton of being a mass murder, and accused John Kerry of commiting war crimes in the Vietnam War and questioned the medals of honor that he received for saving his fellow soldiers. Despite reports from his fellow officers that Kerry was an honorable soldier that would risk his life to save others, Rove went as far as insinuating that Kerry was not a war hero but a murderer. The evilness does not end there. Read Al Franken’s book and those of many political experts, and you will find that few people will dispute Rove’s role in history. (Well, maybe FOX News and Michelle Malkin would disagree.) Do I need to mention Rove’s role in leaking the identiy of CIA agent Valerie Plame? Do I need to mention that sources revealed the leak was actually Rove? Do I need to mention that Bush used his presidential powers to reduced the sentence of the man convicted of the leak? Ahhhh.. nice to have friends in high places.

Rove has been friends with Bush for over three decades, from his two gubanatorial elections.

This is quite a clever move on Rove’s part. At a point where Bush’s approval rating is at all time low, Iraq is no longer a source of support, and Americans are sick and tired of hearing about terrorism imbedded in Iraq. Didn’t the latest report disprove that? At the low point in Bush’s career, it would seem that his dear old buddy is abandoning him, think Donal Rumsfield and Colon Powell. This, my friend, is not quite the same.

The political powerhouse has cleverly decided to reorganize his priorities for the upcoming presidential election. Obviously the Republicans will need to vamp up their smear campaign early to defeat the Democrats. So as we bid adieu to Karl Rove, his domestic polictics will continue to live on. You may not see Rove in the news in the next 18 months, but you will defitely feel the effect of his manipulation every time you turn on the television and some Democrat’s being villified. The hate wheel has only warmed up..

On Wednesday MSNBC’s Mika Brzezinski decided to take a stand and refused to report on the latest Paris Hilton news story. Brzezinski told her producers and viewers that it was not newsworthy and the lead-in story when there are real news to report. Bravo! This position has prompted attention on the web, particularly Youtube, from viewers who commended her for taking a stand against soft news and the obsession with celebrities.

If only more shows such as CNN or the right winged FOX could take a similar stance then perhaps we can actually discuss more important, relevant news such as the war in Iraq, the defeat of comprehensive immigration reform, the inadequacy of the healthcare system, or the deterioration of the economy, rather than non-sensical celebrity news. Brzezinski should be applauded for going with her gut and telling her viewers that enough is enough. The aftermath of her actions has yet to be decided but judging from the emails and responses from viewers online and off, this might be the highlight of her established stellar career as a journalist.

Earlier this week Anderson Cooper from CNN lamented the fact that Hilton has received so much attention for basically doing nothing. In fact, he continued that he thought she was insubstantial and made nothing of her fame except to promote her lifestyle. As you could probably imagine, Cooper probably has to vomit during commercial breaks and stab his toes every time he has to report on Hilton. As a creditable and investigative reporter, Cooper has risen to fame during the Katrina disaster for his reports on the real-life crisis of the victims and criticism of the inept system that failed to prepare for the disaster.

The media wheel has fallen victim to soft news and understandably so as what matters most to them is the bottom line. Americans have fallen victim to be consumed by peripheral news which has no qualitative value except to lull them into ignorance. This vicious circle has to be broken. More people should stand up for what they want and not what the media tell them they need - more celebrity news. Let the vomiting begin.

My Thai tutor attempted to teach me conversations normally used at a restaurant, or any food related circumstances. It was not looking well for me as I’ve not studied and the only meaningful time I’ve spent reviewing is when I sit before her with my notebook open, three times a week.

Review, review, review. My brain was whirling with all these different phrases; fish, chicken (gai), pork (muu?), shrimp, noodle (phad), sauce, English food (a han Ang grit), American food (a han A me ri caa), Japanese food, etc.,…

I thought she asked me what kind of food I like. I said seafood.

She looked at me, rolled her eyes, and a long sigh escaped her.

Tutor: “So now you want me to call you Ms. Seafood.”

Me: “I don’t understand. Mai khao jai, kha.”

Tutor: “I asked you what your name was. You said your name was seafood.”

Embarrassed that I made a technical faux pas but not wanting to relent, I said

“Oh, well then my name is Ms. Seafood. That was exactly what I wanted to say. Chai, kha.”

Later, as I was about to leave and was waving goodbye, my tutor waved back and looked at me seriously before she said:
“Bye kha, Ms. Seafood.”

After walking nearly a mile in wildly humid weather and navigating through exhaustive traffic, I was keen to reach my destination and relax with a cup of coffee before my Thai tutor berate me for not studying, again. This was the conversation I overheard while sipping my coffee.

Intro: Male in mid forties, semi balding, quite articulate, and was moving his hands about as he was talking, an obvious American trait. Female in mid forties, long hair, broken English, Thai national, and was quiet most of the time. This was what transpired.

Lets call them Bob and Pai.

Bob: I went through my last relationship and I gave her everything she wanted. I was devoted to her, provided her with adoration and attention. It didn’t work out. I don’t want a woman like that anymore. I’m here for 19 days and I want to meet someone and there’s a real potential that if it works out, she could be on her way to America. You know anyone like this I can meet?

Pai: I have a friend. She speaks English.

Bob: (He moves in closer to Pai.) You do??? How old is she? Does she have any kids? Does she speak English? What is she like? So she’s your friend?

Pai: Yes.

Bob: I’m here to have eye surgery, probably happen in a few days and I’m meeting with the doctors to talk about it. I have this eye problem. Your friend lives nearby? Does she live near you? Is she like you? She doesn’t have kids?

Pai: She no live close. She live other side. No kids.

Bob: Well, I’ve only been here a few days but I talked to an attorney here about starting a business and all, it’s possible that this could be a long term thing. You friend could be on her way to the States. Do you have her phone number? Does she have a cell phone? How about if you call her? I want to meet her and get to know her before taking it too seriously. I could do business here. If not, I hear that Thai Air has a great flying program so flights between Bangkok and New York are reasonable. I could come back and forth until I start my business. I’m tired of women that are not responsive to what I need. I don’t like women that take so much from you and give you nothing back. Your friend been married before? Does she have kids? Does she have a cell phone?

Pai: No, no kids.

Bob: How old is she? I don’t mind. Maybe I should take you to the Metropolis bar.

Pai: Where is that place, Metropolis?

Bob: It’s my hotel. They have a great bar there. You would like it. You can invite your friend so we can meet there. I only have 19 days before I leave and you have her cell number? I want to meet her. You know the Metropolis hotel?

Pai: I ask her. I have to go now, appointment soon. We talk again.

Bob: Ok. I walk you out. You will arrange meeting? I go with you.

THE END

In the news, the Strive Act has made some headway, but against the interests of undocumented immigrants.

Congress agreed to a “bargain” agreement and basically gutted the Act from its original platform so to better serve the interests of corporate clients. If passed in its current proposition, it would expose millions of immigrants in the United States to exploitation and drive them deeper underground.

CIR must fix the broken immigration system and protect workers from exploitation. CIR means providing a pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants who have been working and paying taxes, but forced to live in the shadows. It means supporting family unity and protecting workers from exploitation and, making sure immigrants come legally with a visa instead of with a smuggler. Is this the way to treat the 20 million undocumented immigrants who are contributing to our economy and labor force?

Many Americans tuned in to the story about the mysterious death of reality star Anna Nicole Smith. Now that her autopsy has been made public, the media reports are moving on to the next tidbit of tabloid, Anna Nicole Smith’s baby’s father and the legal battle to determine who has custody, visitations, guardianship, and inevitably, the claim to the late J. Howard Marshall’s millions. This exaggeration of the truth is a typical ploy by the media to further exploit and insult the viewers’ intelligence. It is not likely that the baby, Dannylynn, will ever receive the millions that the media has been teasing viewers about. On the contrary, legal experts believe the media is perpetuating what is equivalent to a legal myth. What Dannylynn will find is an exorbitant amount of litigation fees associated with defending her mother’s legal claims against the Marshalls.

Here’s the real deal with Anna Nicole Smith’s legal struggle in probate court. When J. Howard Marshall passed away, Smith’s legal claims against his estate was tenuous. After six months of sorting through testimonies and substantial evidence, the jury trial concluded that Marshall’s will and estate plan was not interfered with. The Texas probate court held that Marshall’s son, Pierce, was the legitimate heir to the estate, and substantative evidence support the contention that this was the true intention of the late Marshall.

In the midst of the trial, Smith went forum shopping and filed a bankruptcy claim in California federal court. The judge in bankruptcy court awarded Smith nearly $450 million she claimed her late husband had intended to gift to her, but for Pierce’s tortious interference with the gift. On appeal, the court federal district court in California vacated the $450 million award, reviewed the case de novo, and reduce the award to $88 million. Still with me? How about this extra bit of footnote here. How did the bankruptcy court and the federal district court take such a short time to go through evidentiary issues that the Texas court took six months to review? Well, due to judicial efficiency, the federal and bankruptcy courts did not allow most of the witnesses to testify and it basically reviewed depositions from the Texas court. Not quite the same result, which was what Smith’s legal team was hoping for.

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit, the highest appeals court in the 9th Circuit which includes California, overruled the $88 million award and held that neither the bankruptcy court nor the federal district court had any ability to make such rulings on this matter because federal “probate exception” denied federal jurisdiction over probate matters. At the U.S. Supreme Court level, the highest court of the land, overruled the 9th Circuit court and stated that their ruling was overly broad and remanded the case to the 9th Circuit to assess the case on its merits. The case is with the 9th Circuit now.

What happened to the Texas probate court’s judgment? Good question. Now that the case is with the 9th Circuit, they will determine whether there was a final ruling on the matter, and most legal experts agree that the Texas probate court jury trial did result in a final judgment. This being the case, Smith’s legal claims are extinguished. Due to the fact that the Texas court had a jury trial with substantial evidence and witnesses, the fact that it was concluded before the federal district court issued its ruling by vacating the judgment award by the bankruptcy court, and judicial efficiency, it is reasonable to conclude that the 9th Circuit will affirm the judgment issued by the Texas probate court.

More importantly, the legal doctrine of “res judicata,” which means in Latin that the matter has already been adjudicated, is primarily at issue here. In this case, the matter was decided in Texas and finding otherwise would violate the intentions of the Constitution, which establishes for litigants a certain finality so that defendants may not have to defend the same claim repeatedly. Why not dismiss the case? Not likely, but the 9th Circuit will probably defer to the findings from the Texas court.

Once Dannylynn’s claims are extinguished, which it inevitably will, what remains is a mound of legal bills incurred by her mother’s legal claims against Marshall’s estate. Lets see how many relatives will fight for custody of her then. Media reports have embellished claims that Dannylyn is worth millions and the biological father or legal guardian, may stake claims to her millions until Dannylynn is of legal age. This headline grabs people’s attention and makes it tantalizing, despite it blatant incongruencies. The media perpetuate this legal myth because no one is questioning the validity of celebrity news. What is specualtion becomes fact, when in actuality, it is pure fiction.