Point of View

I guess it does depend on your point of view.

What A Sport

I'm always astounded when sportscasters, or any other spokesperson refers to professional athletes as role models. There is that rare individual, like Tiger Woods,(oops, strike that), Fran Tarkington, Michael Jordan, or Dr. J (Julius Erving), who present and conduct themselves as role models while they are in public, and on display for young impressionable fans. Unfortunately, the louts seem to be the ones who dominate the news, and this is not a scientific sampling, but it seems to me that baseball has the lion's share of the loser role models. Of all the professions that could be selected as role models, why in the world we cling to these folks is just a puzzle to the mind.

Global Warming E-Mails

This one is for all the nerds out there. It is also my first commissioned Kartune. Okay, commissioned may be a little strong, but it was requested by a good friend from Rhode Island. He wanted to see something on Global Warming, and as our luck would have it, that same weekend we learned from the media that a series of e-mails, which contained data that did not support the global warming hypothesis, were deliberately kept from the public. Well, I'm just shocked. You mean to say there is gambling at Rick's Cafe' American? (A second Kartune on Global Warming is called "Copenhagen"

Tiger's Driving Accuracy

Oh nooooooo. This guy is one of my heroes. I hope this turns out well. I've come up with a new theme title for these two; it's "THIS JUST IN..." I've also reversed their position on the sofa, because the "gag line" is always last, and comes from the person on the right, so I thought it made more sense to make the guy the wise ass.

Competitive Yoga

I guess the musician decided to take five. If this looks different to you from a previous visit, you are correct, and you get one point for excellent observation. I revised the drawing a bit, by changing the wall slightly,...ok, a lot, and I added some detail and shading.

No Tipping Please

Like a lot of people, I have heard of cow tipping. I just wonder if it's an urban myth, or I guess in this case, a rural myth.

Pop Ups

This idea came from my grandson, Jack, who neither speaks this way, nor uses a high chair, since he is almost nine years old. However, one day his puppy, Ashtin, a cocapoo with unbound energy, jumped up on Jack while he was doing something at the computer, and he told his mom, "I have a pop up". Thanks for the idea Jack.

Now some folks may ask why then did I make it about a very young child, and why did I choose to introduce the mom using an off color expression, and why did I then have the youngster repeat the expression. Well, see this is the Teachable Moments theme and, ...oh, nevermind, see the Kartune titled Fiber Sale.

What's Trump?

Stimulated by my observations that when having difficulty with a policy situation, or any difficult situation for that matter; regardless of the topic, Mr. Obama seemed to introduce the topic of race. I know that some would say that is just my problem because I am looking through my race based filter. Maybe so, but since I'm the one doing the writing and drawing at this point; and since he chose to inject himself into the Nutty Professor incident, admitting in advance that he didn't have the facts, but charging the air with volitile rhetoric anyway, well, ....I'm going with my interpretation.

You say Kadafi, and I say Gadafi...

This came about during Mr. Gadhafi's rambling speech at the United Nations in 2009. Nothing special about the event. This guy just demands a Kartune. The spelling of his name is a bit tricky. It depends where you go for a source. This is just one of several spellings found on the Internet. I guess it depends who is reporting, and where one sources the spelling. I've seen it begin with a Q, G, and K.

Ferrari Dealership

This is a second option for the homework assignment wherein we were given a piece of dialogue, and told to produce a gag to go with it. (The first submission was the Kartune entitled, "Woodstock Pharmacy").

Woodstock Pharmacy

This Kartune was a class assignment from an instructor I had named George Pieper. Each student was given a piece of dialogue, and told to create a "gag" to fit it. I came up with this and the Kartune entitled, Ferrari, for this assignment. The piece of dialogue I received was, "You can take three of these a day, or take this baby and drive that virus to kingdom come."

Gas Ripco

Ah, yes. This is a recurring theme. In the 1970's we had rationing of a sort. We had to purchase gasoline on assigned days, based on our license plate numbering. The arguments were about the same as today; the players were for the most part the same; and pretty much the same results. However, this was the first time that I recall that OPEC got the message that they could muscle the U.S. around with this issue, (and muscle us around in general, as in the hostage crisis). There was talk of self sufficiency then (meaning drilling for our own oil, alternative fuels, etc.) also, but as the problem of price gouging subsided, so did the desire to be self sufficient. (I guess it was really just the marketplace, acting like a marketplace). At that time, Nuclear Power was out of the question. The 70's version of the millennium greenies wouldn't hear of it; especially after "China Syndrome"; the Jack Lemon, Jane Fonda film about a nuclear meltdown. Of course the only meltdown that occurred was Jimmy Carter's resolve to demonstrate any leadership. Consequently, we also had to endure the hostage crisis until he left office. (The day he left office). Don't tell me it doesn't matter who is at the helm. (P.S. Did I mention that this was also when we were being threatened with a new Ice Age)?

Nadar joins race.

Clumbsy drawing in this Kartune. While I'm satisfied with the drawing of the couple, the detail of the television, and the printing is terrible.

Ashcroft, gall bladder.

Pompousity begs to be skewered. In this case, twice. (see Then There's That (gall bladder))

Gall Reading

Obviously, I found this fellow to be a bit pompous. Okay, more than a bit. He earned two KartunZ. (see HE SAID...SHE SAID).

Recycling 1990's

This montage of cartoons was my first attempt at cartooning in an editorial way. I guess you might say that President Clinton just inspired me to the point of action. For that, I am grateful. I am enjoying this means of expression. The first frame is not about Mr. Clinton, nor is it about the abortion issue which some folks conclude when they see it. This was actually about several incidents wherein newborns were found in trash cans, a hotel room, and one left at or on a church step. Actually, it was this series of abandonments that led to legislatures, in some states, turning hospitals into "free drop" zones; meaning a newborn could be dropped off without any fear of consequences; at least any criminal consequences.

Get Them While Their Young

Again, not the best drawing I've ever done. Perspective is off, and the walkway is kind of busy. This reference is to the first six months or so of the Obama administration, when he was planning to address school children. That , of course, was not a new activity for a president. Remember John F. Kennedy encouraging children to study science to help in the race for space; or his introduction of exercise into school activities. What was a bit different about this was that the administration was actually drawing up a lesson plan for teachers, and that teachers, and school administrations, (some of their own volition), were facilitating songs and chants in praise of Mr. Obama's persona, as opposed to any accomplishments. I recall it being a bit chilling. It reminded me of the film clips we used to watch of school children being indoctrinated in the Soviet Union, and Maoist China during the dark days of the cold war. That of course was when the majority of Americans, and particularly our elected officials, thought that communism was a threat, and not a laudable goal.

Just today, I heard a commentator on television refer to Sarah Palin as being like Evita. For the most part she was referring to her "populism". I on the other hand was reminded of Evita when the "White House Staff" were preparing lesson guides to go along with the address that President Obama was planning to give to grade school children this past summer. For those familiar with the musical rendition of the Peron's time in office, there is a song called "Get them while their young, Evita". Other than being of a different sex, I find President Obama to be much more Evita-like than Sarah Palin.

Area 51

This one was another quickie, but I like it. Jim and Linda, friends of ours, were away for a few months on a "walkabout", except in an RV. They also had Katie with them; the cute little doxie in the middle seat. While updating us on their progress, they mentioned that they had been near Area 51, in Roswell, New Mexico, and were leaving for somewhere else in NM. Now Jim is an ex educator; an avid reader; and at least as skeptical as I am...maybe more so. It was with that context that this kartune was born. Sometimes, I think the quick ideas and sketches are better than the ones I labor over for four or five hours.

Yoga Knot

My, used to be limber, son, Josh could actually do this pose when he was a teen. Not only that, but he could lift his trunk off the ground and swing, balanced on nothing but his hands. No, he didn't have yoga lessons. He was just incredibly limber, and hilarious. Well couple that history with the senior citizen advertisement for the medic alert system, and this Kartune writes itself.

Stock Watch

You never know where you will get your next investment tip, or your next Kartune for that matter. Yes, this is an exaggeration of a real life exchange; followed by a gag-line from a bizarre mind. Our friend Chuck is an active and dedicated athlete. I get exhausted just listening to his activities and accomplishments in the arena of sports.

Fiber Sale

This is the same picture as the Kartune entitled Big Coincidence, but with a slightly modified dialogue.

The Post Turtle

A friend, Joe Joyce, sent me an anecdote about a farmer who was asked, by a passer by, what he thought about the new president. The farmer said that he reminded him of a post turtle. When asked what a post turtle was, he gave the description posted in this cartoon.

Greased Polls

This was just a fleeting thought I had one day while listening to a story about a rating slide in the polls. Okay, okay, it should be Rham. Also, it should be History, not the Abyss. Given the historical nature of Mr. Obama's election, his immortality is ensured.

Pop Ups

The inspiration for this came from my eight year old grandson, who does not use a high chair, or speak this way. He was, however, doing something at a table when his puppy, Ashtin, jumped up on him with her usual licking antics, etc., and Jack said to his mom, "Look, I have a pop up". Once again, a cute little anecdote, coupled with a strange mind, and you get a Kartune.

P.S. For those who are going to lecture me about needing to portray a mom using off color language, and having a baby repeat it, etc.: please see my Kartune titled, "Fiber Sale".

Hole in One

Each in his own way.

Task Force

Nothng getting by these folks. Boy, it's a good thing they're out there protecting our interests.

Letterman-Palin

Noble Nobel?

A friend commented on this, saying that Mr. Obama didn't lose. Hmm, true enough, but the theme here is about undeserved awards, and the hollow feeling that accompanies undeserved praise, awards, compliments, etc. Actually such recognition is rather insulting because there is an inherent inference that you need to be patronized with the award because either you will never win one on your own, or because you would not be able to handle losing or being passed over for recognition. It's just bad policy. Unfortunately, many youth activities do this today. I remember it as for back as the 70's. I thought it was bad practice for children then, and think it's bad practice for presidents now.

Health Care Stocks

I guess I misunderstood when I was advised to invest in health care stocks. This is a favorite of mine.

Chris Matthews

Some jokes just write themselves. Chris Matthew's man crush on President Obama is one of the gifts that keeps on giving. I wonder which is more embarrassing to Mr. Obama, the actions and statements of Chris Matthews, or the Nobel committee.

Big Coincidence

It could happen.

Suchi Special

After all, we are a very entreprenurial people.

Paralysis

Maybe there will be a breakthrough at some point, and he will be able to move again. Which one? Well, with all the help of stem cell research, the fellow in bed of course. I'm afraid the other is a lost cause.

The Blankets

This was another time when government got involved in health care. Looking out for "The People's" interest didn't work so well that time either.

Cesar Milan

This was inspired by a good friend named, Joe Fontana, who passed away several years ago. He had been a dog trainer at one point in his life, and he told me a story that brought this idea to mind. Needless to say, Joe was a very funny guy. He died much too young. RIP my friend.

No Pants

Interpretations really do depend on your point of view.

Free Samples

Some folks really know how to work the entitlement thing.

Bare Spots

Ok, time for a break from the political stuff. Once in a while it's fun just seeing the humor in life.

The Hat Rack

This came about right after the Ft. Hood masacre by the military officer who was also a muslim convert. When asked if this was an act as a result of his religious beliefs, a commentator said that he was "hanging his hat on that excuse". There have been an awful lot of times in history when folks have hung their hat on that rack.

The caption should have been, "Time for a garage sale". Also, since introducing this Kartune, I realized that I overlooked the Mormon Massacre, and Salem Witch Trials.

Fox Hunting

You know, I never understood where we got the pharse, "Don't shoot the messenger". I always wondered...why would someone shoot a messenger? I cannot say that I now know the answer to that question; only that I see that it happens. I expect that these two are going to be a great source of material over the next few years. They are dream characters for anyone who is venturing into this arena.

Carbon Footprint

Poor Joey. He gets the double whammy.

Report A Mugging

Governor Corzine was turned out of office by Attorney General Criste, even after spending tens of millions of dollars of his own money, (reportedly approaching 100 million). Oh! Forget about it! New Jersey can be a rough place.

Hood Winked

Sure, in the Ft. Hood massacre we lost over a dozen of our finest young people, but the important thing here is that we were politically correct, and didn't offend anyone's sensibilities. That is basically the sentiment of one of our generals.

The Meaning of Tax

It's nice that we elect such professorial types for president.

The Handoff

This is the early days of President Obama's administration. He claimed he would be a post racial president, whatever that is, but in fact didn't act much differently than other famous race hustlers such as Al Sharpton or Jessie Jackson. indeed, he even introduced us to a new one, a Harvard Professor. One thing that is different is that he has surrogates to do his bidding for him. Indeed, even unsolicited I am sure; simply inspired. He just calls the play, and the games begin. Since there is nothing new, and not many new players since the 1970's, it really just comes off as boorish. I think one surprise was that Bill Cosby was even drawn in this time. In the past, Mr. Cosby has been very objective on this subject.

However; the real shame here is that President Obama had everyone's ear at the beginning of his presidency, and offered the promise of an intelligent and open conversation on the topic of race. Sadly, all he had to offer was the tired old conversation of...I'll call you a racist, and you'll say mea culpa, massa. It also reminds me of the board game, Othello. Just because one turns the board around to change who goes first, it doesn't change the way the game is played.

New Ancient Ruins

Oh, come on . I know it has crossed your mind too.

Health Care Stuffing

For those who have never had pork stuffing, apparently this year will be a first. It may be pleasing to the eye, but I suspect it will be hard to swallow.

Wow! That's one ugly turkey.

P.S. - They missed the Thanksgiving target date. Maybe it won't pass after all. Dare I have the audacity to hope?

Close Ranks March

As Gomer Pyle would have said; "Surprise, suprprise, surprise". Finally, in an insightful moment, the mainstream media saw that governmental intrusion into the content of media reports might be out of hand...even if it is Fox News. Now that's news. (As am interesting aside, I thought I did such a clever job drawing this overhead shot, only to have two people ask me what the symbol was in front of the news army.) Symbol?! Symbol?! LOL. That's my clever overhead view of a drill sergeant. Hands on hips; elbows out; campaign cover (the hat..yep, that's what they're called). Sheesh folks. And he even talks! Oh, well. Eye of the beholder. I guess I have some more learning and practicing to do with my drawing skills.

The Changeling

A sad movie, but sadder still is the molestation of our way of life, over which these two are presiding.

The Briefing Room

This is a comment on the continuing antagonistic relationship between the Obama administration and Fox News. I am reminded of a story an acquaintance of mine once told me. His name was Alex (Pasha). He was an immigrant from Russia. He used to be in the army, (the Soviet Army), and he also played for the Soviet soccer team. The story goes as follows: Nikita Kruchev was addressing the politboro one day, and he was condemning the abuses of the Stalin administration. At one point an audience member called out, "What were you doing when that was going on?". Mr Kruchev stopped speaking; looked up from his notes with a menacing glare, and in a booming voice, he shouted, "WHO SAID THAT!?" (Silence. Eyes Down. Heads Lowered). Again he bellowed, "I ASKED WHO SAID THAT!" (No one answered. No one looked up). Then Mr. Kruchev said, "That's what I was doing".

Alex was very happy here. He and his new bride lived a very humble existence, by American standards. They had their first child during the time that we were acquainted. He took a job in direct sales with the Cutco Cutlery Company. Is there a more fundamentally capitalistic job than direct sales? Alex loved it and thrived. Having lived in the other system, Alex didn't ever argue which system was better to live under. When such discussions came up, I would watch him listen to defenders of socialism, and all that goes with it, and just smile, and shake his head in disbelief...but what did he know, right?