KCWIRED TALKS MEXICAN FOOD

This guy might have the hardest blog to write due to the lameness of our city. However just like his website he steps up and drops a nice review.
Enjoy,
JOCO SOB

Let’s be honest; there isn’t a whole lot going on in KC this weekend. With that said, for your reading pleasure, I present my latest Mexican restaurant review:

The KC area is full of Mexican joints; I am not talking about the stuff you smoke. That is a different column altogether. In all seriousness, there are many great places to eat in KC. Whether you are into authentic Mexican or the ubiquitous Tex-Mex, KC has it all. This week I had the pleasure of visiting Fronteras in SOJOCO. They have couple of locations in JOCO. The one my wife and I visited is in the Deer Creek strip mall. When we arrived, I had reservations about trying out new Mexican place. In fact, I contemplated driving down the road to Jose Peppers, another Mexican joint that always delivers fantastic Tex-Mex cuisine. With so many choices, why risk eating something you may regret later? After my hungry wife prodded me into trying it out, we entered the unassuming establishment only to discover a modern looking restaurant with soaring ceilings and minimalist décor. Imagine, a Mexican restaurant without the hokey Mexican horns and blankets most places feature! Now, back to the food; I ordered a “Chunky Burrito” that was stuffed with large chunks of perfectly seasoned pork and ground beef. It had the perfect blend of rice and beans. It was simply terrific. My wife ordered the chicken enchiladas, which were equally as tasty. The rojo sauce was perfecto and the chicken was magnificent. Wondering about the chips and salsa? They are on par with the best of what KC has to offer. I strongly suggest you check out Fronteras Mexican Restaurant and let me know what you think! Casual attire and moderate prices.

Peace,

www.kcwired.com

THURSDAYS WITH ANGELO

Here is this weeks installment from Angelo. Enjoy, JOCOSOB


WOW, 3 weeks later, and after only 2 contributions, some people want to kick me out of MY country… isn’t it great! Please be sure to thank the God of your choice because you are in USA and for the freedom of speech that we enjoy!

My father used to tell me “The best way to measure how good you are doing or going in life is not by the number of followers and friends but by the number of invidious enemies and the number of people opposing to your thoughts without facts and knowledge”
I am not wasting my time and ideas responding to the individual that started the wave, as a gentleman I did send him and invitation to talk, he knows my numbers and where I can be find. My requirement is: Face to face my dear friend, face to face is my technique.
I believe in second chances, so here it goes: Tony can you give me a ride to the BCIS office (INS). I will turn my self in with “La Migra” and make you happy and by the way you can keep my bow tie too…. What do you think Antonio B.?

Know let’s go back to business:
How to understand and what it takes to be a conservative? Things I learn from the great communicator Ronal Reagan and other leaders:

The shortest definition of a conservative American came from President T.D Roosevelt “The ability and right of the American People to rule themselves, to govern themselves, and to control themselves” today we call this Individual responsibility! Do not wait for the government to give you everything, you can do it, you can build it or you can destroy it!

According with Ronald Reagan the great communicator “Our allegiance and love of the Republic is one of the fundamental values of an American but especially to a conservative republican”. To put it in my humble point of view, what it means is: because we have forgotten this basic principle, (loyalty to our country) is what have gotten in trouble; if you no longer remember the foundation that nurtured our country’s beginnings you will never be able to project our country to a better future.

The Constitution: The Sublime and Supreme Law of the Land is giving us the best and more exact definition of what a conservative means. The Constitution believes that American people have the RIGHT to rule themselves, govern themselves and to control themselves. And to me this is the “American Manifesto”, as Americans we do not need to look for a socialist or communist manifesto in other lands. Are we clear? Are you with me? Are you following me? We must follow what our Constitution dictates because it is the blueprint where the SACRED RIGHTS of each person are preserved, protected and defined. The sacred rights are there, and cover the poorest or the richest without distinctions or discrimination.

As a conservative American and with this coming statement I want to invite the democrats to practice this and join us to look for the well of our country. Conservatives we do practice and we do believe in a FAIR play, I always remember this when I am engaged in any type of debate, or controversy, but be advised that fair play does not mean avoiding a good political fight for a just and right cause, conservatives we are attentive and we do respond when the basic principles and values of our founders are disobeyed or avoided.

The first fight that we take on our shoulder is: WE want limited government, we are clear that the government is here to govern, and to enact laws always by what it is granted by power of the Constitution.
We are against the government bringing “government solutions” to our personal or State problems. Here I will like to mention one of our heroes of El Alamo, Senator Crocket’s decision to reach his pocket and offered to pay the expenses to support the widows and orphans from the war, and he invited the other senators to do the same, to support a just and patriotic local cause. Crocket message was “If any government with power to give us everything that we want. Would also have the power the take away everything that we have” (Thomas Jefferson).
Here I will also like to mention the “Enterprise Zones” Experiment from Ronald Reagan, inviting local entrepreneurs to open their business in areas taken by poverty, He will offer huge TAX INCENTIVES just for locating their business is these poor areas, this experiment will bring employment, training, better education, new certifications, more commerce and a positive impact on the development of poor areas. Did you get it! Local people taking care of local probems with local resources.

Conservatives strongly support cutting back taxes, actually we want tax incentives, abolish programs that generated only expenses (Do you remember the DNA study of a certain type of Bear, or the bridge to nowhere), we need a gradual and realistic increment of our independence to do business, we do not want to be dependant of the government, “we do not want distribution of capital or resources” we want to make money, and yes gain wealth and be able to keep it to invest back into our community by stimulating more or new business.

Our point of view with religion is that we do recognize and respect that the Constitution was designed from the principles of the Holy Bible and the USA was founded under strong Christian beliefs, we are religious people and we are not scare or afraid to mention the Holy name of GOD. Ronald Reagan was a craftsman working to be sure that our principles were forged by Christian believes.

Now the important definition of a conservative is that special love for the USA, I am not telling you that the others do not love our country, they just do it in different manner and intensity.
Let’s close this review by saying that we still believing that The Constitution and the love for our country are the best tools to keep all American together are the best protective devise that we have against the enemies of our country, and should be the inspiration that keep us moving as American Daily Patriots.

Now it is up to you pick if you want to be a social conservative or a fiscal conservative (or both) but remind to yourself our strong landmarks as a American Conservatives, adopt one of all factions of conservative republicans, look for the one that will benefit our country better, be strong with our social conservative policies (Christianity as the foundation for our decisions), if you want to be a neoconservative like me you must fight for lower taxes, local stimulation of the economy and we do not demand or support welfare programs.

I personally can not be a “paleoconservative” they do not support immigration to USA and I do support having our troops where is needed to protect the integrity of our country. This type of conservatives does not like to have our troops in foreign countries, regardless of the situation.
A fiscal conservative focus in money and government size, smaller governments and reduction of unnecessary expenses, some of them believe on Social Security privatization.
Our traditional conservatives love to keep the American traditions, to preserve for future generations de roots of our identity.

Make the right because our Country may need you tomorrow.

See you next week…Hasta la vista!

KCWIRED.COM WEEKEND PLANNER

As mentioned last week, Cinco De Mayo has come and gone. However, Crown Center is going to give everyone who missed it a chance to catch up on all the Latin culture you can take. Starting at around noon today until 11, CC will celebrate the 10^th annual Fiesta Kansas City which will feature Latin music as in…a cookah rocha ah cookah a rocha!…. and food and dancing. I expect it to be a lot of fun as usual and weather could not be any better!

For you old timers out there, Fleetwood Mac is performing at the Sprint Center tonight. I’m sure they will put on a good show. The perfect night would entail eating at Margarita’s on SW BLVD and drinking their namesake until show time. Oh and tickets are through TicketMaster.

Got kids? Check out Deanna Farmstead in South Overland Park. It is a very nice setting, in a great part of town with many restaurants and a movie theatre nearby. It is free and open daily.

Have a killer weekend..Oh and by the way, according to Myth Busters, penny’s do not screw up breathalyzers! No wonder!

Peace,

www.kcwired.com

ANGELO MINO THURSDAYS

Angelo is back this week with yet another excellent contribution to this blog and the new conservative movement.
Enjoy,
JOCO SOB

Dear American Brothers and Sisters: Thanks for the warm welcome after my first contribution to this blog. Thanks for the inspirational e-mails and comments, and thanks also to the ones that disagreed…This is what freedom of speech is about! Thank you! Thank you for reminding me that I am not in Korea, Venezuela, Bolivia, Cuba o Ecuador. Here in USA. I can express my self and you too. Some of you were asking me to put a summary of my JOCO Tax Day Tea Party speech, and for those asking me about what is coming after the tea parties, you will find an idea on my next week contribution on how to show to Washington our concerns, and how we can be assertive and respectful at the same time.

President Obama on his last week Town Hall visit in Missouri invited us (To the guys and gals with the funny tea bags) to have a conversation, we can not go to DC but we can send our clear message to him. The National Tea Party accepted the invitation and we must support them. They are not alone; they have a bunch of American Patriots whom pledged devotion and allegiance to our country.

There is a small saying in my home town Ecuador: If I advance: follow me. If I stop: push me, but if I retreat …Kill me! Writing this small contribution to the blog I feel like Nathan Hale one of our early heroes; I do strongly regret of having only one live to offer to my country.

Here is a summary of the speech “History Class to Nancy Pelosi”. By a Legal Immigrant and Proud Naturalized American Citizen”.

Mrs. Pelosi; allow me to remind you that U.S.A. stands for United States of American and I want to be very clear that you will understand U.S.A. DOES NOT stand for United Socialist of America. Mrs. Pelosi; My Country’s flag is the Red, White and Blue and we will never recognize the RED flag of the socialism as part of our past , current and future of our heroic history. Mrs. Pelosi: With your “Windfall Taxes on retirement Income plans, including 401K, mutual Funds and more” (this is the second condition for transition to communist or socialist model according to Marx’ Manifesto) you are penalizing people like me for doing the things legally. I went through a long and hard immigration process after entering legally to USA, advancing to gain my employment authorization, permanent resident card and after a mandated 3 to 5 years waiting period to applied and gain my Citizenship, but now you are telling us that “We need to raise the standard of living of our poor, unemployed and minorities. For example we have an estimated 12 million illegal immigrants in our country whom need our help along with millions of unemployed minorities” (this follows under the 3rd condition of Marx’s or Communist Manifesto) you want to tax our saving and use the money from our retirement to support them!

Mrs. Pelosi: You are penalizing my self, my daughters and granddaughters for having a dream to be successful in life by going to college and practicing self development and self leadership as a part of our family values and principles, they should stop their education, they should not advance in their career , no need for morals and values, specially when you say: “Stock market windfall profit taxes could go a long way to guarantee these people(the illegal and uneducated) the standards of living they would like to have as “Americans”. Mrs. Pelosi: I must call my friends and relatives attending to school, and let them know that we no longer need to improve ourselves because you will take care of us, because you told us that: “We need to work toward the goal of equalizing income, in our country and limiting the amount the rich can invest” (It’s sound like one of the 8th step though by Karl Marx on his 10 steps to move to a socialist or communist model)

After my Oath ceremony as new American Citizen I did receive from the hands of a sweet lady member of the DAR my first ever, my own American flag, and she put me charged in a very assertive tone of voice she told me to “always, respect, love and venerate this flag, and she advised me that if my country called me to serve, I must answer her call with patriotism and loyalty to this flag. “Welcome to America” were her last words. That is why I am here today to thanks my American brothers and sisters for sharing with me the pride of calling my self an American Citizen and thanks for allow me to fight with them for a just cause, the protection of our old principles and values that the founders of this country pass onto us as the most sublime patriotic legacy that a person can receive.

God Bless America. “The Order of the purple hearts is coming” be prepare…is coming for sure! Come back next week and find out more information about this new patriotic endeavor.

Be sure to contact Angelo by visiting his website.

BILL TALKS KITCHENS THIS WEEK.

Residents of KCMO and KCK pay special attention to this one. If you want to upgrade the value of your home it starts in the Kitchen, not by putting a sofa and mattress on the side of your house.

Enjoy,
JOCOSOB

Not So Extreme Makeover!

Since a lot of people these days are still a little jittery about “moving up” when it comes to buying a home, it is a good time to improve what they already own! Many people fix up their homes right before they sell them. WHY??? If you’re going to pay for the improvements, shouldn’t you enjoy them?

An upgraded kitchen is probably the best improvement you can make. Of course, with any project, there is a right way and a wrong way to do it. Before starting anything, you need to do a little planning. Ask yourself a few important questions:

1: Do you like the way the cabinets are currently laid out?
2: Is it time for new appliances? Do you really NEED stainless steel?
3: It’s time for countertops, what is the best surface for your needs?
4: What do I want for a backsplash? Tile? Granite? Synthetic?
5: Do you have adequate lighting?
6: What are you going to do about your floor?

These are just the major ones! There are a LOT of decisions to be made, but all are important for a successful project!

If you are happy with the layout of your cabinets, there is probably no need to replace them. Painting them properly can completely change the look of your kitchen without the high cost of new cabinets. Stained cabinets can be successfully painted! Think about replacing doors and drawers with a fresh, new style. You’ll be surprised at the difference it can make! You cabinets can also be modified to accommodate new appliances. Changing the hardware to a newer style or finish can also make a difference.

New countertops can also make a huge difference in the look of a kitchen. You don’t have to go with a high end granite or synthetic for an upscale look. There are many attractive laminate colors and finishes. Not only that, there are different edge treatments available.



Believe it or not, the countertop in the above picture is NOT granite! It’s a laminate with a 180 wrap edge.

Stainless steel appliances are the IN thing right now, but they are not the only option. Depending on your cabinets and colors, black appliances may fit the bill just fine. You just need to make sure they will fit in your cabinet layout. Did you always want your microwave to hang above your range? Now is the time to do it! Again, your cabinets can easily be modified.

If you are doing all of this, you will need to address your backsplash. You don’t NEED natural stone. There are many patterns in ceramic tile that mimic the look at a fraction of the price. It’s also a good time to add under/above cabinet lighting if you desire.

If your floor is in good shape and you like it the way it is, great! You don’t HAVE to do it, just make sure it all works together with the rest of the colors in the kitchen. If you have wood floors, you should consider refinishing them now. When it comes to wood floors, always opt for the additional coat or upgraded Glitza finish for a long life.

Just remember, there’s a right way and a wrong way to paint cabinets. Preparation is the key! Please don’t go o Home Depot and buy some white latex paint and go to town! It will fail in no time. Latex paint should NEVER by applied to cabinetry and woodwork!

If you would like to see some kitchen makeover pictures, visit my website here: http://www.paintproinc.net/interior.html Scroll down a little for the kitchen pictures.

Feel free to contact me with questions or to request a subject for a future column. All comments are welcome!

GUEST POSTER - AKIRA

I hope that you gamers out there enjoy the new video game review section. I have known Akira for nearly 2 years now and despite that I asked him to help out with some content for this blog. This guy knows his crap when it comes to Video Games and if he says it is a good game then chances are it is.
Enjoy,
JOCO SOB

Hey there interwebs, Akira here by command of the great JOCOSOB. Today I'm get to review a great game for you guys Left4Dead. You might have guess from the title that this is a zombie game. Where you have been “left for dead” against the zombie hordes that now infest the world because you were lucky enough to be immune to the zombie virus. Lucky you.

This is a first person shooter, that can be played by yourself, split screen co-op or up to 4 people online. And the online is where this game shines the most but why? Because the none player characters are no way as smart or fun as our friends...well most our friends that is. >.> You can play online with random people but some may not use mikes and other may just be screwing around and mess up your experience. So if you can find some friends to play it will enrich you time with this game.

Now getting on to more of the game there are 4 different survivors that you can choose to be. And you take them through 4 different stages that are each set up as a separate movie. As you and your team fight off the zombies or normal infected you will also be randomly jumped by special infected who have special traits to make your already bad day go to worse.

There 5 of these starting with the Boomer which is a blob of a zombie the if close enough to you will vomit upon you attracting all zombies in the area to you as well as exploding when shot. Next is one with a wicked tong called Smoker, called so because when you kill him it fills the area with smoke. He will try to ambush you by grabbing one of the team with his tong and dragging them off to be constricted by his tong or crushed against whatever you get stuck on. Next is the Hunter who will jump upon his victim and claw them to death. Very quick and agile. Next is the Tank. This fella here is a royal pain in the butt to bring down. He will try to smash you team with his fist or by throwing boulders at you. The whole team must work together to bring this behemoth down. Next is the Witch. Now the witch is a little different then the other special infected in that she is not hunting you but rather randomly in your path. Which means you can most of the time avoid fighting her completely. But should you be unfortunate enough to grab her attention she will attack whoever startled her and kill them quickly so the team must again come together to stop her.

Now your thinking well that's not so bad just learn where there at on a stage and be ready for them. Well normally that would work except this game brings a great mechanic that all the zombies are randomly placed on the stage every time. So you will never play the same stage twice. Adding greatly to the replay value of this game. They use music to let you know when and which special infected is upon you. Graphics are ok running from Valves engine. This game is rated mature in case you didn't notice. So that means not meant for kids so parents do us all a favor and know what your kids are playing for gods sake. O.o

So the final line I give this game an 8.5 out of 10.

And the way this worlds going we need to start preparing for the zombie apocalypse. So when it finally happens the rest of the world will lose there minds and we will be like “no big deal, I kill these things all the time”. JOCOSOB let me know when the zombies start huh.

GUEST POSTER-DEM NUTS - TOM. S.

Here is this weeks installment from Tom. We are lucky to have Tom and his insight into weekly topics facing conservatives on a daily basis. Tom goes to great lengths every week to ensure that he delivers a great post and this week is no exception.
Enjoy,
JOCOSOB

(Highly Condensed) Dem Nuts Weekly Analysis (No. 2, Pub. May 1)

International crap: N. Korea commies re-opening nuclear weapons-grade facility. Swine flu panic goes pandemic. US pork flu panic continues to infect politicians requiring us to pay for treatment until cure for congressional pigism is finally discovered. Egypt subjects 330k hogs to capital execution. Britain withdraws all troops from Iraq. Ignored rest of world crap to save blog space making crime fighter Dr. JOCOSOB happier. Condensing to 1082 word essay impairs snarkiness score; while plummeting readability score to 10th grade level. Something has to go next week.

Domestic Crap: Sat. IMF meeting in DC; hundreds of patriots beaten with batons and pepper spray. Sun. National domestic blog mod take-nap day. Mon. Lots of crap day: a) Congressional swine flu caused by Pelosi Virus HR1 goes panicky; while viral HR2 Reid confirms suspicions of Barry’s delusional megalomania stating “I have a gift, Harry” and b) Barry rhetoric regarding regulating credit card industry is political fluff making me want to ROFLMAO because way too many DC politicians greased regularly by financial PACS; and c) Scare Force One NYC photo op disaster; and d) Gov. Motors proposes to swindle taxpayers 225 sh. for each $1k for our secured loan of 15.4 billion in conspiracy with Treasury Tim. Bad deal usurping Congress will merely allow GM to inflate their balance sheet until default and bankruptcy leave us with $0 billion.

Tues., PA Sen. RINO, 79 yr. Benedict Arnold Specter finally flips ensuring GOP win in 2010. Wed. Revised GPD 6.1% drop confirms Happy Depression Day. To which government, stock mkt. and media ignore; same day of the 100 day mark of Abomination. Congress approves 3.4 trillion historic fed. budget with anticipated record 1.2 trillion deficit. Fed. Res. leaves int. rates at 0% flooding $ hoping to make businesses and consumers spend $ instead of hoarding cash messing up Abomination Plan. Barry’s 100-day speech highlights was a promise of ending no-bid contracts and stating that immigration reform battle will be sometime this year; while ignoring past corrosion of American character on torture. Thur. Joe “the gaffer” Biden recommends to avoid flying/subways and enclosed structures. Fri. S.Ct liberal Souter retires in June which will make Barry’s 1st and hopefully only pick interesting over the summer.

Stock market crap: 50 cent k plans have improved since March 6 to 100 cent k plans. Expect correction soon back to 50 cent k level again as realization we are in a depression starts hitting the reality fan. Appears further delays in May 4 bank stress stuff. Too big to fail banks cannot continue hiding worthless assets on their balance sheets forever. Ken Lewis is BAC history. Chrysler goes Ch. 11.

State Crap: Sat., KS health officials issue holy crap alert confirming two cases of swine flu. Naturally, all were already aware of Congressional Swine Flu hitting KS porkers. (Pelosi Virus HR1). Sun., posts related to a debate on a watered down, pro-friendly unlawful, pro-business immigration bill makes news. KS SB 428 will ensure KS becomes an even bigger refuge state for unlawful immigrants explaining why KS would be a lot better without Sen. John Vratil. Tues., DINO GOV Parkinson’s first speech stating “refreshing time of astonishing renewal” is as bad as a press release by “I want to be KS GOV” Dem Nut Sen. Steineger’s incredible statement ending with “I believe in winning the BBQ!” Both of which indicate Tues. was full moon crashing to earth day, again.

Wed. Horrible HHS appointment of Kate (I refuse to give my real Catholic middle name) Sebelius is finally gone solving many of KS’s problems. Making me ahs happy as the Wizard of Oz. So, Be Happy. Don’t Worry (until Kate does anything official as HHS Sec.). KS Majority Lead O’Neal refuses to schedule joint session with new GOV Parkinson until Thurs. Thurs. New KS GOV Speech. Kate gone, so KS legislature expected to soon override “I love abortion” and “hate energy” vetoes. Fri., Possible state employee pay cuts of 5% instead of 1 day/mo furlough.

Local Crap: I overcame my evil lawn mower Diablo. Son in horrible TX completed his first 42 mile bike rally; while I finished a sloth jog marathon to restroom in record time. Disguised DHS brown shirt came by Mon. pretending to be a US Census worker. (BS here after). BS wanted to confirm the number of my house; despite giant house numbers and things called street signs. A clear DHS rouse demonstrates why POTUS should not be in charge of Census. So, fair warning alert-suspected BS will be around alleging to work for the Census to determine if you are a domestic terrorist.

Made huge 9 cent gain selling DOW making me want to squeal like a capitalist pig. Helped Barry create .00017 jobs by spending $12 on Pelosi HR1 swine flu bbq special. Campaign focused on earmarks solution for 2010. Considered selling political soul to get every Kansan a gazillion bacon dollars. JOCO Tax Appraiser fascists sent notice stating my evidence in an informal non-evidentiary teleconference hearing was not sufficient-new JOCO scheme. Onward to BOTA friends for our annual funfest where I ask for evidence I was never asked for, or given the opportunity to submit. JOCO Sun Editor Chris Rogers is refusing to communicate with me.

Finally, delaying a wrap up on PorkBall series/awarding Golden PorkBall award. Basically, different stuff due to Happy Depression starting this week. Will probably be Republic troll mod again at open forum weekend @ http://kansasjackass.blogspot.com just to annoy dem nut demiwants. New word to add to your political lexicon: If a person that twitters is a twitwit; then by extension, a person that blogs would have to be called a blogwit. That is the final word. On to the top links of the week.

Top Links of the Week worth analyzing: The 100 day-100 mistakes of Barry’s Abomination administration by priority is available at http://www.nypost.com/php/pfriendly/print.php?url=http://www.nypost.com/seven/04252009/postopinion/opedcolumnists/100_days__100_mistakes_166. Can anyone think of 100 good things by priority Barry has done? Hopefully, all domestic terrorists mailed their certificate to Janet “I deserve to be fired” DHS Sec. from last week’s top link @ http://www.reason.com/terroristquiz/. Top invasion of privacy link for demiwant dl photos is @ http://www.license.shorturl.com. Best blog ever remains New Style Kansas Politics @ http://independentkspolitics.blogspot.com. 2nd place, JOCOSOB.

Copyright Legal Mumbo Jumbo. None. Go ahead and steal it. Merely pretend you are a Crook of Congress, Sec. of HHS, Fire Treasury Tim or DHS Sec. “you are all domestic terrorists including sneaky Canadians” Janet.

BORED? DON'T BE. KCWIRED.COM IS HERE TO HELP

If you are like me you typically go to KCWIRED.com to see what the hell is going on in this town. I have had a link up to this guys site for awhile now and love the content of his blog. I am lucky to have him as a weekly contributor.
Enjoy,
JOCOSOB

Thanks to JOCO SOB for allowing me the opportunity to share with you what is going down in KC this weekend. Much like my site KCWIRED.com, we are going to focus on good food, good music and good times. Before I begin with the weekend happenings, there are a few things that I need to disclose. First, I have a favorable bias to all things JOCO and then KCMO. Let’s face it, JOCO is the crown jewel of the KC Metro area. However, we all need to recognize JOCO would not exist without the sounds, flavors and history of KCMO. Regarding KCK and NKC, much like Mexico, we should build a large wall. Enough said.

Speaking of Mexico, Cinco De Mayo is on Martes (Tuesday.) this year and as usual there will be a lot happening in the city the following weekend and I’m going to provide a complete list for you next Friday that will help you decide where to get your FIESTA on! This weekend, we have some fantastic music recommendations for you. Kansas City’s legendary Ida McBeth is performing at Jardines, “the coolest Jazz joint in town” and Mama Ray is performing at the Phoenix on Friday and Saturday night around 7:30. As always, you can avoid the $5 cover at both places if you arrive before six but the real reason to arrive early is to get a table! If the weather cooperates, KCWIRED’s recommendation this weekend is to check out Mama Ray at the Phoenix and finish the night off at John’s Deck up the street where you can enjoy more live music, slightly stiffer drinks, and one of the best views in the city. If the weather is not cooperating (rain), skip John’s deck.. There will be many great days ahead where you can enjoy drinking under the stars. For those who want to rock out, The Killers are playing at Sandstone on Saturday. Check out Ticketmaster.com for available tickets. For those of you that have kids or just want to have a mellow night out, the Boulevard Drive-In is open for business now. The Boulevard is always a great place to spend time with family and friends. In case you didn’t know, the Boulevard is rated one of the top drive-ins in the country. They feature FM transmitted DTS sound to your car stereo and a picture that rivals indoor theatres.. Take a blanket to keep nice and toasty, some cold beverages to save money and some treats for the kids. Remember, children 5 -11years old are only $2.00 per person and children under 5 are free. There is no better way for a family to enjoy an inexpensive night out.

Have an awesome weekend and please share with me how your weekend works out and of course, let me know of any events you would recommend for next weekend! kcwired@kcwired.com.

GUEST BLOGGER - ANGELO MINO

Those of you that attended the JCCC tea party will remember the speech that this man gave. It was so inspirational that I had to track him down and have him become a contributor. He sees this country from a way that those of us born in this country can't.
Enjoy,
JOCOSOB

After learning that more republicans are planning to change of aisles in the Congress and in the House. I do believe this story will make us understand why we need to be more vigilant of the democrat party's intentions on bringing socialism to our country.

Mr. Obama was happy to bow to a King, and to embrace to all the socialist presidents, the same presidents desirous to destroy our country. He was thankful of receiving a book that talks the worse thinks about our system from the same person that weeks ago call him a "stupid American president".

As far back as I can remember the USA Commander in Chief bows to nobody! and our Flag will never touch the ground...Well by embracing the socialist south American president and easing the restrictions on Cuba our president put our flag on the group and step on it.

American brothers and sisters do not quit! We need to be a strong vigilantes of our country, It is up to us because it looks like nobody else cares. Please enjoy the story on how to catch wild pigs.

Angelo H Mino

Catching Wild Pigs
A chemistry professor in a large college had some exchange students in the class. One day while the class was in the lab the Professor noticed one young man (exchange student) who kept rubbing his back, and stretching as if his back hurt. The professor asked the young man what was the matter. The student told him he had a bullet lodged in his back. He had been shot while fighting Communists in his native country who were trying to overthrow his country's government and install a new Communist government.

In the midst of his story he looked at the professor and asked a strange question. He asked, 'Do you know how to catch wild pigs?' The professor thought it was a joke and asked for the punch line.. The young man said this was no joke. 'You catch wild pigs by finding a suitable place in the woods and putting corn on the ground. The pigs find it and begin to come everyday to eat the free corn. When they are used to coming every day, you put a fence down one side of the place where they are used to coming. When they get used to the fence, they begin to eat the corn again and you put up another side of the fence. They get used to that and start to eat again. You continue until you have all four sides of the fence up with a gate in The last side. The pigs, which are used to the free corn, start to come through the gate to eat; you slam the gate on them and catch the whole herd. Suddenly the wild pigs have lost their freedom. They run around and around inside the fence, but they are caught. Soon they go back to eating the free corn. They are so used to it that they have forgotten how to forage in the woods for themselves, so they accept their captivity. 

The young man then told the professor that is exactly what he sees happening to America. The government keeps pushing us toward socialism and keeps spreading the free corn out in the form of programs such as supplemental income, tax credit for unearned income, tobacco subsidies, dairy subsidies, payments not to plant crops (CRP), welfare, medicine, drugs, etc..

While we continually lose our freedoms -- just a little at a time. One should always remember: There is no such thing as a free lunch! Also, a politician will never provide a service for you cheaper than you can do it yourself. Also, if you see that all of this wonderful government 'help' is a problem confronting the future of democracy in America; you might want to send this on to your friends. If you think the free ride is essential to your way of life then you will probably delete this email, but God help you when the gate slams shut! Just maybe you will be able to tell who is about to slam the gate on America. 'A government big enough to give you everything you want, is big enough to take away everything you have.' - Thomas Jefferson

GUEST POSTER - BILL THE PAINTER

As promised here is another one of my guest posters that will be appearing weekly. Bill is not much of a political pundit(we have enough of those) but he brings some great insight into other everyday things. Please Enjoy.
JOCOSOB

In This Economy?

Yep, how many times have you heard that? How many times have you SAID that? It’s getting a little old, I know. It almost seems like we need to do things differently than we did before. I don’t know if that’s true or not, but maybe we can reevaluate some of the things in our lives.

If you were looking for something political here…..sorry! Not gonna do it!

First of all, let me thank JOCOSOB for letting me help out a little here. My name is Bill, also known as “Bill the Painter.” That’s the name of my blog here on blogspot. I own a painting, siding and window company here in Kansas City. I have been in the home improvement industry for nearly 20 years. Yeah, I know…I don’t look that old! My guest columns are going to be home improvement related, not necessarily political. Thanks for reading and watch for me each week, usually on Wednesday.

Back to “this economy.” There are many of us who, for one reason or another, are cutting back on things. This is all good and fine. Heck, we may all learn a little from the experience. I will say that one place you should NOT CUTBACK is you home’s maintenance. Sure, we would all like to move to a bigger home, maybe a newer home, condo or something else. Since that isn’t always possible, why not “Love the one you’re with?”

Home improvement can take many forms! Sure, painting your home is a great way to freshen it up, increase your curb appeal. It also helps protect your investment. Usually your home is the biggest investment in your portfolio, it will always be worth something! A typical home in the Kansas City area should be painted every 5 to 7 years. I don’t care what “warranty” is placed on a can of paint, it won’t last 25 years! Ok it may, but you certainly won’t like the way it looks!

Spring is a great time to get outside and take a look at the condition of your home. Is the paint peeling? Fading? How about your siding and windows? Look for rotting wood, bowing siding, missing window glazing. You’ll see it. Rot needs to be addressed sooner rather than later. It’s a fungus that will do nothing but spread, doing more damage as time goes on.

Ok, so you’ve figured out that you need some work done…now what? Grab the Yellow pages and find a painter? You COULD to that, but how do you choose? Not all painters are created equal! Its one thing to paint a house, but taking care of the rot issues takes a certain skill set that not all painters have. Just as most carpenters aren’t good painters. You should really check out the Better Business Bureau. They are unbiased and honest. Most reliable painters are on there and are rated according to people’s experiences. You owe it to yourself to do your due diligence!

What should you look for in a painting contractor? I’m glad you asked! After you checked them out with the BBB, call the ones that you are interested in working with. Don’t just let them come by and put a bid in the door! MEET WITH THEM! How do they know what you are looking for? How do you know they are what YOU are looking for? Just make sure you tell all the contractors the same thing so they are all bidding on the same project.
What should their proposal include? It should include all labor AND materials for one thing. Any painter that wants you to supply the paint should be disqualified immediately! If they can’t buy paint, it’s probably because they have no credit and owe the paint store a LOT of money! Not cool! It should include a detailed description of the prep work and painting to be done. The price for the painting should also be firm. A good painter knows what it will take to paint a home. You should not be penalized if he doesn’t include enough paint to complete the job. References! Don’t just ask for them…call them! Sure, the painter will give you favorable ones, but you should ask the reference if they were happy with the project and most importantly: Would you hire this person again? Insurance! This is the most important item of all! Make sure the painter is covered for general liability and worker’s compensation insurance. It is your responsibility to make sure you are protected. Many painters use subcontractors. Make sure THEY are covered as well. Some work comp policies exclude subcontractors. Don’t hesitate to call their insurance carrier. Still awake? Good!

Payment terms. This is a tough one. I usually require full payment on completion. I have credit with my suppliers and may not get the bill until after your project is complete. It is very rare for me to ask for a deposit for a residential paint project. Siding and windows are a different story! If they require a deposit, only give it the day the work begins. Why do they need your money weeks before your project starts? To guarantee a spot on their schedule? Please…. If they don’t trust you, maybe you shouldn’t trust them. Pay only when you are satisfied with the finished product. They are less likely to come back and take care of you once they have your money. Thankfully, we are not all like that.

Conclusion. Ok, by now you are really interested or really bored! Thanks for reading this and staying awake. Your questions, suggestions and criticisms are always welcome! Feel free to comment here, I will read them. If you have specific subjects you would like to see discussed here, just let me know. You can always visit my home at Bill The Painter.com