What I'd like to hear from the President

We are heading into a weekend with a real sense of anxiety...

A loss of confidence in our markets; a loss of confidence in our electoral process with all this voter fraud...

A loss of confidence in our politicians in Washington...

And a loss of confidence in our financial institutions...

I want to see a president not beaten down and battered by the partisan battles and the public criticism of the past eight years...

I want to hear him speak about the America that I know...

Let's face it - France isn’t going to lead us out of this global crisis... Nor Germany or Spain or England... It isn’t Asia or the Middle East... and it surely isn’t Russia or China.

Or Central or South America or even Canada... It is the PROMISE of the United States of America -- that unique thing that binds us together that will lead us out of this mess... and it is time to believe again.

She's the nation who when faced w/ unprecedented odds, she stood the challenges of time...

Who when on Sept 11th, 2001, men and women, black and white, Latino and Asian and from all walks of life, came together as one nation, united as a people, to face the tyrannical destruction of those who would seek to undermine her greatness...

A nation who says we are stronger as ONE against any and all who doubt our resolve.

Who sees courage and loyalty and perseverance, dignity and honor as its core strength in times of strife...

Who believes in a just and almighty God to lead our efforts in selfless acts of humanity and determination that we preserve not only our nation and way of life, but also a culture of equality that has become a beacon of freedom for the world to see...

Though excesses may collapse our markets, as they did during the great depression, in the 80s and in the dotcom burst of 2000...

We shall survive this too with the sheer grit of this nation.

And we will continue to be the greatest force for good on Earth because at our most basic level, our undoubting courage for those who find themselves in the breach between good and evil, sick and poor, we find ourselves. It is who we are - and it is what unites us as a nation.

While we may have been the catalyst for what is becoming a global economic slowdown, it is the United States of America who will lead us out of the woods...

And I have faith still in this greatest experiment called democracy for which my grandchildren have not only hope but also that promise to those who are willing to work harder, strive farther and believe deeper in the most powerful economic system in our planets history.

That is what I believe... and our next and final debate might be a good time for Barack Obama and John McCain to set aside some partisan differences and find that common faith in our system.

MY FIVE

Here are MY FIVE questions for tonight's debate in Nashville, TN...

Hopefully we'll find out where the candidates really stand on the issues - namely, the economic crisis and the way forward.

1. The Economy is stuck. Credit is frozen. Aside from the recent bailout bill that you both voted for, what are you going to do to solve this crisis and ensure it does not happen again?

2. Who will you appoint as your Treasury Secretary and who will you seek advice from as your administration takes on the economic woes ahead?

3. Explain to me specifically how YOU think we got into this crisis and tell me why you think it wasn’t avoided before we got to the "crisis" point?

4. Taxes and Truth. Honestly explain to me your plan to raise or cut taxes - income, corporate, cap gains, estate, AMT… lay it out plain and simple and explain how it helps me as a middle-class father of two young girls?

5. Everyone has someone in their past that they regret associating with at some point in their lives. Tell me someone in your past that you regret befriending and why that association does not reflect your judgement?

Get the popcorn ready. Let’s hope for answers and not boring fluff… the American people deserve more!

Ellen's Stardust Diner

So there I was at Ellen's Stardust Diner on Times Square in NYC talking to folks about the election... and "Dana" burst into song! See if you can figure out who Dana's voting for this year...

LIVEBLOGGING THE EMMYS!!

Got no plans Sunday evening?

Are you one of those people who dread SUNDAY night because the weekend fun has come and gone?!

FEAR NOT… I will be LIVEBLOGGING the 60th Annual Emmys THIS SUNDAY NIGHT AT 8P ET OVER AT THIS FOX NEWS' "ON THE SCENE" BLOG!!!!

WHY would you want to do such a thing, you ask?

(Besides the obvious reasons: 1. Nothing beats Hollywood stars making ill-informed political statements at live award shows with snarky correspondents responding in kind; 2. My liveblogging prose reads like a modern day Shakespeare)

I give you THREE reasons to join me:

1. The EMMY Statuette. What the heck is that thing?

I mean, I get the Oscars statue. It’s a knight-looking dude named Oscar holding a sword standing on a film reel. But WHAT is that EMMY thing supposed to be? And WHAT is it holding?!

It looks like Flash Gordon’s wife holding up a ball of golden twine that it stole from some cat… but what does THAT have to do with television?!

We need answers!

2. Diddy.

He starred in a made-for-television movie adaptation of A Raisin in the Sun… BUT he wasn’t even nominated for it. So I am [HOPING FOR] [EXPECTING] guessing that there might be some sort of revolution over this egregious oversight… And I will be there LIVEBLOGGING THE MAYHEM through it all!!

3. The Hosts…

ALL FIVE OF THEM!! I was trying to figure out who was hosting this year and learned its a motley quintuple of REALITY TV hosts! Maybe they can vote each other off the Island… I know I’ll be voting them off one by one!

TUNE IN PEOPLE!!

The Barracuda v. Biden

A FOX News / Opinion Dynamics poll last week found that many Americans are smitten with Gov. Sarah Palin. So I took those results out in Washington for a little "Man (or Woman) on the Street" field test... Check it out!

Barack Couture meet Naughty Monkey

Democratic Presidential nominee Barack Obama has become so popular, that in some corners like the fashionista world... Obama's likeness (in Che Guvara tee shirt designs) or even the simple "O" has become the latest fashion statement!

Sen. Obama even got a little free fashion boost when major designers like Diane Von Furstenberg and Derek Lam contributed designs for campaign gear!

Then came the Palin Pumps... and the bespeckled Alaskan Governor. According to a WSJ front page article today, Sarah Palin's style - first introduced to us on the stage at the RNC Convention in St. Paul - seems to be catching on quickly and giving the economy a boost!

From her Kazuo Kawasaki rimless frames (style series 704, color 34) to her shoes, many women are emulating her style. And speaking of those shoes -- the pair above that she was wearing when she was introduced to the nation as John McCain's Vice Presidential pick -- were 3.5 inch heels in the "Naughty Monkey" line of House of Brands shoes.

I will admit that the extent of my fashion sense is entirely limited to the few episodes of Project Runway that I have watched with my wife... but I can tell you this: If a Presidential Fashion War breaks out in the next 53 days, people will definitely tune in and pay attention!

Let the Fabric Fight begin!

Kaziah the Goatwoman

Kaziah Hancock is a kind woman... and a goat farmer. But more than goat tending, she has a gift (as you will see in this video courtesy of KARE 11) that has touched more than 200 families who have paid the ultimate sacrifice of losing their loves ones for our nation's freedom. In her words, she has "sent them home."

Hancock calls her paintings "Project Compassion," and can be found at http://www.kaziahthegoatwoman.com/.

On her site, in the gallery section, is a short passage that reads:

It is the soldier, not the reporter, who has given us freedom of the press.

It is the soldier, not the poet, who has given us freedom of
speech.

It is the soldier, not the campus organizer, who has given us the
freedom to demonstrate.

It is the soldier who salutes the flag, who serves beneath the flag,
and whose coffin is draped by the flag, who allows the protester to burn the
flag.

(Father Denis O'Brien of the United States Marine Corp.)

The First Day of School

So the surf was nothing short of spectacular... and I am again renewed and ready to face the challenges ahead -- with a presidential election less than 2 mos away!

And speaking of new challenges, here are a few shots of Mackenzie Jenkins' first day of school. These cute shots -- of her leaving the house today, then at school looking for her cubby and symbol (turtle!) -- come courtesy of her mother!

What an exciting time for her and her parents -- but also -- of the promise and possibilities of the future. Will she grow up someday to become an astronaut? a lawyer? a tv reporter... or (gulp!) a politician!

Will one of her classmates find a cure for cancer or an end to global poverty?

It's worth remembering that while both presidential candidates offer campaign promises of "change" and "hope," the real promise of our future lies in our children. Let's give them everything they need to make a better place to live in!

Endless Summer Time...

Okay. I'm back from the Campaign Trail. School started for my girls, leaves on trees are starting to look different already and there's a tiny chill in the morning air - the tell tale signs that that dreaded seasonal monster is on its way... FALL!

What does that mean to me?

I'm having an Endless Summer panic. I can't help it. I'm a surfer and its in my DNA. So I am assigning myself this story: Are other surfers ready for the winter?

I am taking it upon myself to set aside the 300 pressing matters that I have to do now that I am back in DC -- and driving to the Indian River Inlet in Delaware. Literally, right now!

Will let you know how it goes... and if there's hope for an Indian Summer!

Conventions Highlight: The Strategy Room!

I can't believe the conventions are already over! Looking back now, from the comfort of my own home (sleep really is a great thing!), I think FOX News' 24-7 online live Strategy Room experiment was the real highlight. It was produced by the genius team of David Clark, Mike Straka, Hadley Gamble, Brian Korner, Rick Smosky and a few others who I may have forgotten to list here... It was live broadcasting streaming all day and night with anchors such as Greta Van Susteren, Shep Smith, Brian Kilmeade, Brian Wilson... and even yours truly.

My personal favorites: John Rich of "Big &Rich" and Lynn Swann!!

Look for more groundbreaking broadcasting from FOXNews.com in the future!

A Time for Prayer

The good folks along the Gulf Coast states and in New Orleans are once again bracing for a potentially devastating natural disaster called Hurricane Gustav.

More than a million Americans have evacuated already and hopefully everyone in the path of danger will successfully get out before the storm hits.

Let's keep them in our prayers!!

Poker with Mr. Jennifer Garner

Just Kidding, Ben Affleck is my Convention Hero at the DNC. He hosted a private poker party  at Coors Field last night that raised money for the Paralyzed Veterans of America... And we were there to take it all in! (And you can thank my GENIUS editors Kristi and Chrissy for putting this together!)

Protesters at DNC!

Things got a little sporty today in Denver at the "Recreate 68" Protest Rally...

DELAYED UNTIL 1200P

That's just NOT what I like to see at 0745a while checking into my 0930 flight...

Its official: I'm on the Campaign Convention Trail... or rather, I should say that I am desperately ATTEMPTING to do so but United Airlines is making it incredibly difficult to get out of the gate.

You really aren't supposed to name companies directly, but in this case, I am making an "observation" -- and that observation is that on THIS morning at Dulles Airport, United Airlines is doing everything in their power to ensure that every passenger on Flt 335 to Denver... Chooses another airline next time they have to fly!

Let me give you an example: after attempting to fly stand-by on an earlier flight which was denied, I walked and found the Customer Service desk. Standing in line with several other justifiably angry passengers, a supervisor named "Mike" was seeking people out and trying to talk them OUT of standing in the line because "the customer representatives are very busy." He let me know that was already of my "Denver" situation... And that I should basically just go away!

Adding insult to injury, I am told that there is NO other flight on any other airline between both airports in DC between now and noon!

So whats the point of this posting (other than venting on my black berry)?

It's official: AIRLINES SIMPLY DON'T CARE ABOUT YOU, THE PASSENGERS.

To be fair, its not just United. It's ALL of them.

When I first heard Congress was considering a "passenger bill of rights," I thought it was a ridiculous idea -- and one that would simply compound the already existing mess.

But I'm warming up to the idea. I understand business, I understand delays happen. But it's getting out of control and the airlines need to step up and start caring about their customers again.

Speaking of customers: a few fellow passengers who are also feeling the sting of deadlines surely to be missed today are CBS' Bob Schieffer (who seems to be pretty mellow about the whole thing) and Politico's Chief Correspondent (and one of the most respected political reporters in Washington) Mike Allen - who has set up a command post near Gate 11C with his laptop humming and hos cell phone buzzing!

See ya from the Trail...

(If we ever get there!!)

More Olympic Updates!

I am really REALLY going to miss the Olympics -- and wearing a Speedo in Times Square!

If you missed any of my updates and want to catch the madness, go to http://www.foxnews.com/ and under the "Video" section: search Griffs Games. There are eight in all, Griffs Games I-VIII.

Hope you enjoyed them - and I leave with the most BIZARRE of them all... Naked Cowgirl!

Now I'm off to the Conventions... See you in the mile high city!

Under the Table and Dreaming...

I am a fan of the Dave Matthews Band -- and can say that I have been since the days when they played much smaller gigs around the DC area in the 90s. In those days, I was always taken by the tremendous talent of the late Leroi Moore whose piercing saxophone set the band apart from everything that was being listened to in those days.

Not surprisingly, Moore's unique sound and song compilation (Matthews credited Leroi with that at a show in LA last night) is a mega-hit today and will likely stand the test of time.

Here's what the band's website said about Moore's death:

We are deeply saddened that LeRoi Moore, saxophonist and founding member of Dave Matthews Band, died unexpectedly Tuesday afternoon, August 19, 2008, at Hollywood Presbyterian Medical Center in Los Angeles from sudden complications stemming from his June ATV accident on his farm near Charlottesville, Virginia. LeRoi had recently returned to his Los Angeles home to begin an intensive physical rehabilitation program.

Perhaps today, Leroi is "Under the Table and Dreaming..."

LEROI MOORE,

1961-2008

Phelps Phenom and the Phun Suit!

The Phelps Phenomenon... we will we ever know WHY he's so darn fast?!

Obama & Rickrolling!

Quite Entertaining... and impressive that someone has not only the imagination - but also the freetime that it took to put this gem together!

Rickrolling is more or less an internet phenomenon that forces someone from whatever they were looking for on the web to ultimately end up watching a video of 80's heart-throb Rick Astley singing his biggest hit: Never Gonna Give You Up!

This "odd" thing has found its way into everything from Scientology protests to Mets games!

Now... even Obama is rickrolling us!

Friday FUN: 007 & Dr. Shatterhand!

I discovered by sheer accidental providence (i.e. he walked into my office and told me!) that my good friend and GENIUS editor Stu Basinger is one of the world's most reknowned 007 fans!

Stu has been a die-hard James Bond fan since he was 3 years old -- and while many of us think we are big fans, Stu takes it to an entirely different level -- he created a website 10 years ago that documents all things BOND! It's named after a character in a novel that has yet to made into a film: Dr. Shatterhand!

Fortunately for us amateur fans, Stu's website is For Your Eyes Only: http://www.shatterhand007.com/.

So don't be a Dr. No, be a Dr. Yes, and take your little Goldfinger and click on Dr. Shatterhand...

Your GoldenEye won't be disappointed! There's everything you ever wanted to know about Bond, several interviews with past characters from the films including a great one with actor Bob Dix... and you might even emerge with a License to Kill.

After all, You Only Live Twice, Tomorrow Never Dies, The World is Not Enough, Diamonds are Forever and you might as well Live and Let Die... Need I give you more reasons?!

From Russia with Love, Thanks Stu for a great website!

Also - enjoy the new trailer for the upcoming Quantum of Solace.



(The photo above is of Stu Basinger aka Dr. Shatterhand and actor Robert Dix.)

FLYING THE FRIENDLY SKIES...

1800 HRS (at the time of this writing.)

LOCATION: The Tarmac at NY's LAGUARDIA Airport.

I'm aboard an airplane whose company shall remain nameless (hint: might be found in a fraternity or sorrority name) that was supposed to take off at 1630 EST.

The bouyant sounding Captain just announced: "Ladies and Gentlemen, we are finally in line for takeoff... However, we are number 27."

Groans, sighs and faint utterings of profanity flew throughout the cabin. (Yours truly in full participation!)

In the hour and a half that we have been delayed thus far, we have been told:

A. THAT There was an issue with another airlines' plane on the runway which had to be cleared.

B. THAT There were some unexplained delays coming from the air traffic control tower. And while that might seem frustrating to some passengers, we should take some sort of bizarre comfort in knowing that its just as frustrating for "those of us up here in the cockpit." (I've never understood this logic because I'm not getting paid to sit on this bus with wings. What the heck does the pilot really care how long it takes to get from point A to point B - this is his JOB.)

C. THAT We were able to use the bathroom because there was a problem with the water pressure on the plane.

D. THAT We had to return to the gate to have to water pressure situation examined. (Upon examination: we learned that someone "simply forgot to flip a switch" on the outside.

And for all of these headaches, of course, Captain Cheerful was VERY SORRY for these inconveniences.

Now normally, I should be really ticked off. But I'm not - its really funny in a demented way!

And I gave a very nice woman who watches FOX my copy of the brand new People Magazine with Brangelina's baby pictures.

She's happy now. I'm happy to have made her happy! And I am confident sometime this week, Captain Cheerful might actually get us to Washington.

If you have travel nightmares - send them my way so I can post them: griffsnotes@foxnews.com

Olympic No-Nos!

Okay - summer vacation is OVER. It's election time, folks.

But I must confess that as I have begun to dig back into the news after a glorious week off... I am fascinated with the Beijing Olympics. Not for the sports aspect (I really can't name any athlete other than wunderswimmer Michael Phleps), but for the social and cultural clashes that may arise - and are already garnering attention from the media. Seems there's also a bit of a smog issue too. (And lest we forget, Pres. Bush IS attending!)

So let me post my first Olympics 2008 entry with a short list of things NOT to do if your happen to be attending the festivities in Beijing.

From Wires:

1. Do not sleep outdoors to save money at the Olympics. It is
banned to "maintain public hygiene and the cultured image of
cities."

2. Do not let the stifling summer heat tempt you into
streaking, do not get drunk nor set off fireworks nor wave "insulting
banners."

3. Anyone with mental illnesses or sexually transmitted
diseases is banned. Smoking is not allowed at Olympic venues.

4. Foreigners "must respect Chinese laws while in China and must not harm China's national security or damage social order."

Okay - you got that?!

Now behave yourselves -- it's not the Greek Games of some of our collegiate pasts... and as far as I am aware, there's no "Keg-Roll" either.

Learning to Surf

I'm not going to lie... for this surfer Dad, a very proud moment!

Scooter Goes Surfing!

Beach Beard

I don't grow beards. I wish I could, but I can't. Don't have enough facial hair...

Bill Richardson's was the hit of the Democratic primary season. That was a beard.

Then I went on vacation and our condo had a pipe burst and viola - no running water!

Shaving in Iraq with bottled water is one of the few things I really don't miss -- so I decided to let it go for a few days... 

The water is back on, but the beard seems to have stayed. 

Get a good look - it's a very rare occurence!

Toe Nibbling Therapy

Apparently, a much over-looked, but very effective way to get that really good pedicure... is to stick your toes into a tank full of Carp and let them nibble away.

The AP wrote about it here.

I am a workoholic that dreams of running a marathon soon, and I often take off and run long distances without having trained consistently. This is not a good way to take care of one's feet. But certainly should ensure that the Carp in my tank won't go starving anytime soon.

In Memory of Tony Snow

Many of you have inquired how you might honor Tony's legacy...

Tony believed deeply in the advances being made in Colon Cancer Research and his family asks that you direct your donations towards the Dana Farber Cancer Institute.

We have set up a direct link where you can make donations: HERE.

Or you may call a special number: 866-534-2371.

And if you prefer mailing a check:

Donations in Memory of Tony Snow
Dana Farber Cancer Institute
10 Brookline Place West
Brookline, MA 02445

One of a Kind

I was blessed to have had a special relationship with Tony Snow. He taught me more about optimism than anyone I have ever met. It is difficult letting go as the reality of losing a friend far too soon sets in. But in true Snow fashion, I kick myself with every tear, as he would have us all celebrate his life and be of good cheer in the wake of the things he tried to impart on others.

I loved Tony dearly for the lessons in character, faith, family, hope and love that he shared with me. But above all, the true lesson of Tony's life was how to live our lives: boldy, with zest for those that you love, unafraid of the challenges ahead... and smiling all the way.

My heart breaks for his wife Jill and their three kids: Kendall, Robbie and Kristi. But I take comfort in knowing what the rest of the world will tell them about who their father was and what he meant to all of us.

RIP, Tony Snow, 1955-2008.

Code Pink Armada... by Land and by Sea!!

Watch Out Obama... Code Pink is an Equal Opportunity Protester (EOP)!!

Real or Fake?

I can't attest to whether this is REAL or FAKE... but if it is real, this dude is NUTS!!

Happy Fourth of July!!

May YOU and YOURS have a SAFE and wonderful Fourth of July!!

This is AWESOME!!

Where the Hell is Matt? (2008) from Matthew Harding on Vimeo.

The Homeless World Cup

When my friend and colleague Shannon Bream told me about homeless people from different countries around the world playing soccer against each other, I must admit... I laughed. Sounded too... well, weird to be honest!

But it's anything but weird - it's brilliant, exciting and inspiring. Go to www.homelessworldcup.org and check it out. Here's a little about it from the website:

There are one billion homeless people living in our world today.

The Homeless World Cup exists to end this, so we all have a home, a basic human need.

The Homeless World Cup is an annual, international football tournament, uniting teams of people who are homeless and excluded to take a once in a lifetime opportunity to represent their country and change their lives forever. It has triggered and supports grass roots football projects in over 60 nations working with over 25,000 homeless and excluded people throughout the year.

The first tournament took place in Graz 2003 uniting 17 national teams. At the 5th Homeless World Cup in Copenhagen this summer, 48 nations, 500 players were united for a once in a lifetime opportunity to represent their country. Melbourne is the host city for the next tournament from 1-7 December 2008.

The impact is consistently significant year on year with 73% of players changing their lives for the better by coming off drugs and alcohol, moving into jobs, education, homes, training, reuniting with families and even going on to become players and coaches for pro or semi-pro football teams.

The Homeless World Cup supporters include UEFA, Nike, UN, Manchester United, Real Madrid, Ambassador Eric Cantona and international footballers Didier Drogba and Rio Ferdinand.

The national tryouts for the USA team was this past weekend here in Washington and I really hope that I can figure out how to get myself to Melbourne, Australia in Decemeber to see them compete.

There is also a movie/documentary out now about the Cup called "Kicking It." Check it out here.

Surfing in the OBX Report!

Thank You, Korean War Vets!

25 June 1950 -- 0400 hrs. North Korea launches a full-scale invasion of South Korea across the 38th Parallel. Three days later, Seoul, the capital of South Korea, falls into North Korean hands.

President Truman, Gen. Douglas MacArthur and countless thousands of brave Americans like my father answered the call. From holding the line at the bloody Pusan Perimeter to the daunting heroism in the Frozen Chosin reservoir, theirs is a history that I remembered today by going down to the Korean War Memorial here in Washington, DC.

I met a South Korean man with his pregnant wife and 2 year old son laying flowers at the memorial. He told me that he wanted to come give thanks to the soldiers that gave their lives so his parents could come to America - and that he would eventually have been born here to raise his own family.

For all who served there, in a war that began 58 years ago today...

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE!

Obama's FIRST PRESIDENTIAL SURFBOARD!

According to Surfer Mag, Barack Obama told supporters at a fundraiser about a year ago that he grew up surfing as a kid in Hawaii - which would certainly make sense since pretty much everybody in Hawaii surfs or has tried it at some point in their lives.

I'm looking into this one... Go here to check out the board that one supporter designed for him. Very hip stick, I must confess!


Stay Tuned!!

High Gas Prices Hysteria (HGPH)

I'm hitting the road soon and taking the family to the beach for a quick getaway and while I am less than thrilled about the high price of gas, it's not going to stop me.

According to the latest FOX News-Opinion Dynamics poll, 48% of you said that you ARE changing your summer plans - a large jump from 30% who said the same two years ago.

And I don't really blame you because it now costs about 80 bucks to fill the tank!

However... I also think there's a bit of HGPH syndrome (High Gas Prices Hysteria) going on out there!

Here's a few examples:

1. Brothels in Nevada now offering $50 Gas cards to big spending customers. That story is here.


2. Montgomery County Maryland Schools are telling the kids: Costs too much to fill up the bus, so WALK! Parents soon to stop complaining about walking 5 miles to school... uphill... barefoot!


3. Indie Rock Bands are having to cancel tours because of high gas prices -- lack of talent or ability to pack "Ladies Night Free Drink Mondays" not a factor.

OH HAPPY DAY!

Did you know?

Today, June 20th, is the "Happiest" day of the year. According to a British shrink with a flair for creating mathematical formulas, the combination of longer daylight hours, summer vacation anticipation and memories of being a kid during summertime produces a heightened sense of optimism.

What's the equation, you ask?

O + (NxS) + Cpm/T + He

What do the symbols stand for?


I have no idea. But who cares, just be HAPPY!

And the saddest day?

Creator Cliff Arnall calculates around the end of January when the weather's cold and gloomy and the Christmas bill are due.

When you go to the home page of Cpl Frank Woodruff Buckles, this is the message that greets the viewers...

Thank-you for your interest in my story as America's last World War One Survivor. I appreciate your thoughts and prayers and am humbled to be the representative of nearly 5 million Americans who served with me. I receive many requests for autographs and interviews and at 107 I do my best to respond as quickly as I can.

Well, just happened that Cpl Buckles was being honored on Capitol Hill today and I took the opportunity to ask a few questions of this great American Hero.

It was a tremendous honor and privilege, and after the interview, I thanked him for his service - service that began in 1917 at age 16.

I won't give away all the juicy details here because we're saving this one for a Fourth of July special... but Buckles told me of fond memories on the Fourth of July "listening to his grandfather talking about hearing stories of his own grandfather... who had fought in the American Revolution."

Happy Father's Day!

Five years ago, I had just returned from serving as Col. Oliver North's cameraman during the initial invasion in Iraq. I wrote an article in the Washington Times for Father's Day reflecting on my experiences there and what it meant to me on this day.

Today, the United States remains engaged in Iraq. Many fathers are now serving their third, fourth and even fifth deployment. It is important to celebrate those brave dads all across America.

I have since returned to Iraq twice - the third time as a reporter, embedded solo in Fallujah at the end of 2006. My father remains my "greatest hero" and there's nothing I strive more to become in this lifetime than simply the kind of father that he has been to me.

Happy Father's Day, Dad!


(from the Washington Times, 13 June 2003)

My father was in the Marine Corps during the Korean War. He never talked much about it to my brother, sister or me and still doesn't to this day. It's been called the "forgotten war," and for most of my generation it's just that. I can't recall studying anything about it in school or even hearing anything about honoring its veterans. It's only now that I have spent nearly three months in a combat zone and saw the routines of our military's heroism, that I can even begin to fully appreciate what my dad went through.

Neither my brother nor I were ever in the military, and for the most part it has never been an experience that was significant to our family. My dad didn't receive a Medal of Honor or a Purple Heart. We don't have pictures of him in uniform on the walls at home. He did his duty and went on to further his career on the GI bill. The only thing I can be sure of is that he turned out to be one great father.

Four months ago, on the day before I left for Kuwait, my father wished me well and told me that he always believed "one member of the family in a war was enough for him." At the time, I didn't think much of it because I had no way to know what he had seen, or what I would see. I had a lot more on my mind as I packed my bags and began to mentally prepare for the unknown. I would soon spend 44 days on the front lines of Operation Iraqi Freedom serving as Lt. Col. Oliver North's cameraman and field producer for Fox News Channel as an embedded journalist with Marine Medium Helicopter Unit HMM 268, "The Red Dragons."

There were many engagements and incidences that could have easily taken my life. A memorable one occurred during the opening phases of the war, as our unit was airlifting American and British forces into the Al Faw peninsula in southern Iraq to fight for control of the oil fields. Col. North was in the lead bird, I in the second, and the third of nearly 50 helicopters crashed immediately behind mine, killing everyone aboard. These were the first casualties of the war, and I was a witness to something that I had never seen before the ultimate sacrifice that our men and women in times of war are willing to make without hesitation.

Those guys are heroes, and there were many more like them who we would cover before the combat operations ended. I had lived, eaten and slept with these courageous Marines, and for the most part they had accepted my as one of their own. They even shaved me head as a rite of passage. And yet, I wondered, what was my father like during times like these?

Well, now I know. I went there and did it. I slept under a starry sky full of tracer rounds hoping that one wouldn't land on us, not knowing what the next day would bring. I fumbled in the dark for a dry pair of socks while obeying the "no light" rule so the enemy couldn't spot us. And if it had come to it, I was willing to give my own life to save another's, as our helicopters stormed into the presidential palace in Baghdad, taking casualties out of the battlefield to the field hospitals.

My brother told me when I got back that the whole family watched Ollie's reports on television with great concern. What really struck me was that our father was more involved and inquisitive than anyone. After all, he knew what I was going through and he had been there before not in Iraq, but in a small unit of Marines in a foreign land fighting for their lives and the lives of others.

We must all be eternally grateful to those men and women who paid that ultimate price for our freedom. Personally, I have a few visits to make to the wives and children of the guys I got to know pretty well before they too paid with their own lives. And this Father's Day, I can't wait to call my dad and tell him that now I understand a few things I didn't before and that he is a "hero" too and thank him. Every American owes that sense of gratitude to all like him and the many who are still in Iraq, as well as those who will surely follow. No one wants to go to war, but I was fortunate enough to spend 10 weeks with those who have the courage to accept that responsibility to risk their lives so that we can have a safe and happy Father's Day. We're a better nation for their having done it. Thanks, Dad.

The Legacy of Tim Russert

It is a sad day in America as we learn of the passing of Tim Russert at age 58.

An undisputed King of Sunday mornings, sitting in a chair across from him on "Meet the Press" was a rite of passage for any politician hoping to climb in the ranks. Some faired well, some fell short. Yet the same Tim Russert showed up week after week, year after year. No one was better at it than him.

You'd also be hard pressed to find folks who'd say he was anything but a kind and gracious guy. On the few occasions I had to meet and work with him, I was always reminded of his genuine humanity.

But perhaps his greatest legacy may yet be, in such sad irony considering the timing, his gift at writing about the things that mattered most to him - fathers.

Our condolences and prayers are with his family and friends.

Summer Reading List

After being told that I'd have the high honor of interviewing legendary NYTimes best-selling author Jackie Collins this weekend for Fox and Friends, I figured I'd better pick up a copy of her latest novel Married Lovers.

What I didn't expect was to LOVE IT! My wife, along with many of my female friends at work, the airline stewardesses on the Delta Shuttle this morning... and the list goes on of the people who were shocked that I'd really enjoy such a book.

But it's GREAT - You gotta READ IT!

Although, my only beef with Jackie is that the abusive ne'erdowell ex-husband of the heroine, Cameron Paradise, is a former Pro-Surfer...

WHY DOES THE BAD GUY HAVE TO BE A SURFER??

(We dealt with that image crisis once before thanks to Patrick Swayze in Point Break)

Jackie has a blog too - check it out here. And be sure to tune into Fox and Friends this weekend (7a-10aET) to catch Clayton Morris and I interviewing her.

The TOMATOES are ATTACKING!!

In the VERY RARE chance that you live in a remote part of the United States, have no access to television, radio or newspapers... and you only got online for a few brief moments to read this blog:

THE TOMATOES ARE BAD. DON'T EAT THEM. REPEAT, DO NOT CONSUME TOMATOES - MAY HAVE SALMONELLA -- CAN KILL YOU!!

Last year it was spinach, the year before strawberries... this is the year of the killer tomatoes. Read more here.

This has been a Griffsnotes Public Safety Announcement.

Oops... Someone please tell him!!

Ummm... not sure where to begin on this complete Photo-Op-Gone-BAD?

But someone PLEASE tell Obama that this is a disaster. Jeans? Flat tire? Tire Fender?

For comparison... he might take notes.

Coming to a TOWN HALL Near You

Sen. McCain congratulated Sen. Obama today on his historic win of the Democratic Party's Presidential nomination... then challenged him to 10 Town Hall meetings across the country.

Now, if one watched the speeches last night from all three of the candidates, its fairly easy to understand why McCain wants to get Obama to agree to do the town halls, a format where McCain has proven fairly adept at campaigning.

Today, on a conference call of bloggers with McCain, I had the chance to ask the Senator about it. Here is what transpired:

Griff: Thank you very much for taking time... it seems to many of us that this is more about your interest in getting him into a format where you feel you excel as opposed to the long speech format. So my question is if Sen Obama doesn't accept this invitation do you have any plans to adapt your speaking style and do you feel like Sen Obama is better in this long speech format and its something you have to address going forward?

JSM: I dont know... I'm happy with the attendance and the formats and the fact that 101 town halls mtgs got me the nomination of my party... I think its the best format by far, I think its the participation... it's the oldest form of the way we participate in democracy. I think americans probably, if you asked the majority of them, in long speeches (laughs) are not their favorite topic. so I think they want to participate. They want a great debate. I don't think they want to hear long speeches to tell you the truth - that's why I keep mine short. That's why at town hall mtgs I try to keep my opening comments short as possible so people can participate - believe me, when they leave the town hall mtg they seem to be more than satisfied with the format. I'm very happy the way things are going, I'm very happy with the way I have conducted my campaign and I intend to have this great debate across this country and let the american people participate and thats what it should be all about in my view.

As of this afternoon, the Obama camp seemed warm to the idea and wanted to have it more reflective of the true Lincoln-Douglas debates.

And while Sen. McCain doesn't have the gift that Sen. Obama has in the oratory department, we haven't seen a lot of Obama "outside of the bubble" as we say in the press.

So let the debates begin!

In Other News

A couple of stories that you might have missed today in lieu of the dominating Democratic Presidential Nomination news.

Did you know...

THAT the creator of the famous PRINGLES potato chips, Fredric J. Baur of Cincinatti, was SO proud of his invention that he had his ashes BURIED in one of the trademark tubes last month! Baur was 89 years old and a retired chemist... and it's not known what flavor of can was used.


THAT the NEW CLUB DRUG on the scene is the hemorrhoid-fighting PREPARATION-H according to a FOX News story! Apparently the youngsters are lathering themselves all over to get that "ripped" look with their shirts off?!


THAT PETA's latest crusade for critters is turning a century old jail in Skohegan, Maine into a LOBSTER EMPATHY CENTER according to the Bangor Daily News. Makes ya feel kinda guilty about dropping them in that boiling water, now doesn't it?!


OR EVEN THAT a twenty-something Dutchman injured his derriere after a MOONING INCIDENT WENT HORRIBLY WRONG. Turns out the prankster misjudged the strength of the front glass window of a Utrecht restaurant and fell in after pressing his bare buns too firmly against it. Ouch!

And now you know the stories that you MIGHT have missed if it weren't for keen news nose.

Join the ARMY

It's Friday. I'm a KISS fan. And I got to meet Mean Gene back stage in Atlantic City several years ago.

While this story has no relevance with regards to successful international diplomacy whatsoever... it DOES bolster my view of Sec of State Condi Rice.

Excerpt from AP:

STOCKHOLM, Sweden (AP) -- The Kiss Army fan club has an enthusiastic new recruit: Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice.
In a departure from her normally staid diplomatic duties, Rice met the legendary glam rock quartet when they happened to share a hotel in the Swedish capital. Rice was in Stockholm on Thursday for an international conference on Iraq. Kiss had a sold-out gig to play on Friday.
"I was thrilled," Rice said of her late-night encounter with frontman Gene Simmons and bandmates Paul Stanley, Eric Singer and Tommy Thayer in the executive lounge of the Sheraton Hotel where they signed autographs and handed out backstage passes and T-shirts to her staff.
"It was really fun to meet Kiss and Gene Simmons," she told reporters, noting they seemed well informed about current events. The band had asked if she could stop by after she finished dinner with the Swedish foreign minister and Rice readily agreed, she said.

Perhaps it's time to give Beth a lyrical makeover... Oh Condi, what can I do?!

Shark Politics

Either I am obsessed with a self-fulfilling prophecy that I am going to be eaten by a shark this year... Or maybe it's just that I have become entirely consumed by this year's presidential race... Regardless, here's an important question we need to be asking about Clinton, Obama and McCain:


WHICH CANDIDATE WOULD YOU TRUST MOST WITH KEEPING US SAFE FROM SHARKS?


Send me your thoughts at griffsnotes@foxnews.com!

Summer of the Shark II???

July 30, 2001 – “Summer of the Shark” was the cover story of Time Magazine.

It had been decided, in large part to the extensive media coverage of 8-year old Jessie Arbogast’s attack by a Bull Shark and subsequent survival after losing an arm, that the story of the year would be shark attacks in 2001… that was until the morning of September 11th.

Now before you jump to crazy conclusions, I am NOT in any way suggesting some doomsday conspiracy that this year’s shark attacks are in ANY WAY a prelude to some sinister attack later this year.

Rather, I am simply comparing the unusually aggressive number of attacks that summer (01) to what is already sizing up to be one of the more significantly dangerous summers in the water already this year.

I have been surfing and diving my entire life and have encountered sharks on numerous occasions. I have consistently dismissed theories of “shark summers” as being created by overzealous hype and unnecessary hyperventilating by talking heads on TV.

I have never feared going into the water... After all, I know the odds are in my favor: I am much more likely to be struck by lightning (1 in 79,746) than eaten by a shark (1 in 3,748,067).

But…

Dum-Dump……….Dum-Dump…….Dum-Dump….Dum-Dump…Dum-Dump, Dum-Dump, Dum-Dump, Dum-Dump, Dum-Dump (Can you hear the theme to JAWS?)

Yes, some of you will accuse me of sounding like Chief Brody (Roy Scheider) announcing that we’ll “NEED A BIGGER BOAT.”

No. We don’t. There is no Jaws out there that needs hunted. I am simply your humble and sane reporter (who surfs) who notices that it appears to very “toothy” year thus far.

Consider This:

Item #1: The Mexican Navy officially launched a War on Sharks this weekend because a Mexican surfer named Osvaldo Mata was killed Saturday after an attack; and an American surfer, Bruce Grimes from Texas, was bitten (but not killed) the same day along the Mexican Pacific coast. These attacks followed the death of another American surfer who died after being viciously attacked at a nearby beach at the end of April.

Prior to the latest incidents, the last person to die from a shark attack in Mexican waters was more than a decade ago.


Item #2: A 66 year-old triathlete training in the Southern California waters off Solana Beach was killed after being attacked by a Great White believed to be up to 16 feet long. Great Whites are the leading nibbler on the West Coast, but rarely are the attacks fatal or occurring so far south in the San Diego area.


Item #3: Shark Attack Season begins with a BANG in South Florida. Volusia County is the Shark Attack Capitol of the World and there’s been plenty of activity so far this year. There were at least three attacks in New Smyrna Beach, Fla in April alone.


Item #4: A British teen was actually attacked by a shark IN HIS BEDROOM without even going into the water. (Okay, this was too funny to pass up – sleepwalking into your fish on the wall.)


Item #5: The UK’s Guardian newspaper declared at the beginning of May: “Surge in Fatal Shark Attacks Blamed on Global Warming!”


Item #6: My own personal encounter, face-to-face, with a Bull shark in March off Palm Beach, Fla. I was surfing alone, with my wife watching from the beach. I knew that it was shark migration time, but they are typically black tips or spinners and they are only a few feet long. At worst, a bad dog bite. But the shark that surfaced on me that day, was a Bull Shark. I was sure of it. It was about 5-6 feet long, gray, stocky with the tell-tale snubby, rounded snout. His dorsal fin came first, then I saw his tail break the surface as he circled a few feet from me and floated motionlessly… that’s when, in the words of my wife, “never seen me paddle into shore so fast in her life.”

Lions and Tigers and Bears… and Sharks?

Welcome to Summer!

Jenkins Family Beer Review: BALTIKA 2

Over the Memorial Day / Jenkins Family Reunion Weekend, my beer expert brother, Kim Jenkins, officially reviewed Russia's pre-eminent Ale: Baltika 2 - "The Pride of St. Petersburg."

Didn't even know Russia made beer?

There's no stone too remote to turn over for a Jenkins Beer Review...

However, what we did not anticipate during this review, was an unexpected and rude KGB ambush trying to disrupt and censor our review. Fortunately, such attempts were unsuccessful.

Note too: the proper disposal of such liquids.

Ghosts of Vietnam?

I read a disappointing story today over at Little Green Footballs blog about our men and women in uniform being verbally assaulted on public transportation here in the Nation's Capital.

The story cites a letter obtained by well-known and accomplished milblogger Michael Yon from the Dept of Transportation warning military personnel of verbal assault incidents and even offers guidelines for avoiding/dealing with such harrassment.

If this sort of Vietnam-era stuff is REALLY going then it ought to be addressed and rejected. Those who exercise their 1st Amendment rights ought NOT abuse that right by attacking the very people who are tasked with defending it.

Cardigan Time?

Yesterday, Sen. Obama made these remarks to a crowd of 75,000 in Oregon:

We can't drive our SUVs and eat as much as we want and keep our homes on 72 degrees at all times ... and then just expect that other countries are going to say OK, Obama said. That's not leadership. That's not going to happen.

I think Obama has good intentions to suggest that for a country that has been given so many blessings, much is expected in terms of leadership... America does need an "Energy Diet" in my opinion. Conservation NEVER hurts, people!

BUT... the political reality of achieving such change in energy independence does come easily when you just dictate to folks what they can and cannot do because other countries won't like it.

One might recall that during the oil crisis during Pres. Carter's term, not one of high accolades for the history books (oil prices rose roughly 150% by the time he left office), he began sporting a Cardigan sweater around the WH and turned the thermostat down.

I suspect that many Americans may not be ready to get their Cardigans out of the closet to solve our current dilemma. Perhaps Sen. Obama might seek the example of NY Mayor Ed Koch and his implementation of water conservation in the public schools - which in turn successfully found its way into the family's water habits.

Polar Bear Politics

Let the Legal Battles Begin!

No doubt we are at the precipice of the beginning of a flurry of lawsuits intended to control greenhouse gas emissions or halt arctic oil exploration.

In fact, some groups like the Center for Biological Diversity have already filed suit against the govt that this week's news didn't go FAR ENOUGH.

Yet in listing the bears as "threatened" under the Endangered Species Act, Interior Sec. Dirk Kempthorne says this designation offers no more protection than what they currently get under the Marine Mammal Protection Act.

I caught up with the secretary immediately following his presser and asked him what he thought the legal fallout from his actions would be...

Friday Fun: Cow Waterbeds!

Continuing my animal theme... there's THIS for a little Friday FUN!

According to an AP story, Dairy Farmer Kirk Christie near Des Moines believes that "a happy cow is a productive cow" which is why he is giving them: Flat Screen TVs and WATERBEDS!

"Them cows are my girls," says the farmer. (Um... that's a little weird, right?!) "You ask anyone, I probably think more highly of those cows than I do myself."

Farmer Kirk's got 23 girls and the industry experts support his pampering of them, saying that a cow's comfort (when they're lying down and chomping cud) DOES boost the milk production. The increasingly popular idea here at home seems to have originated in Canada and Europe.

Oh yeah, almost forgot the TVs... What do the girls watch?

Oprah and Dr. Phil, what else!

FREE the Chicks!

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals was in town - with chicks in bikinis in cages... to protest the annual Egg convention.

Check it out!

WHY?

The first time I caught a ride inside the "tube" of a wave, it was in Costa Rica and due in large part from a much better surfer's nudging me along and encouraging me.

He was from Australia and occasionally drifted on and off the pro-circuit and his girlfriend was an LA Country lifeguard on vacation. She even had a water camera that caught a rough shot of that ride I will never forget.

But the bliss didn't last long that day because some obnoxious and aggressive surfers showed up and began harrasing the three of us. They were better than I, but paled in comparison to my professional pal. At first, we were competitive. But eventually, we gave way at the break as there were so many more to enjoy in Costa Rica without the nuance.

Back on the boat that had brought us out, I told my new friend that I wished I were as good as "those punks" so I could "school them" (I believe those were my words, although there might have been some profanity in there too!)

"Why?" my friend said. "You were the best surfer out there today!"

Confused, I reminded him that I was the LEAST talented surfer in the water and pointed at my pale white office tan as evidence.

"No, you were the best surfer out there because you were having FUN. That's what surfing is all about. It's why we do it... and its a shame some people don't understand it," he said.

It was then and there that I truly understood my relationship with surfing and why it continues to play a such a large role in influencing my own life and the way in which I choose to live it.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

BUT then I read this in the NYT today: "Pro Surfer's Death Exposes Beach Town's Violent Side."


I am deeply saddened to read this story. And while I am not naive to what happens in parking lots near breaks all the time - this one is different.

This was allegedly premeditated by a group of immature and thoughtless young men in their twenties that haven't the slightest idea how devastating the consequences of their actions could be on a sport loved by so many around the world. I can't imagine the grief that this poor surfer's family and friends must be suffering for a pointless fantasy shared by an ignorant few.

Surf Gangs? That is pathetic, abhorrent, repulsive and utterly unacceptable.

I'm literally sitting at a computer on a rainy Monday morning in NYC... and I can't get past my first inclination. Why?

(The photo above is Emery Kauanui Jr from the LA Times today - and article that simply asks that same bewildering question.)

HAPY MOTHER'S DAY!

Happy Mother's Day, Mom... And to ALL Moms out there too!!

My sincerest apologies as my daughters made a cute Mother's Day video message for Moms... but apparently there is a TROLL in this blogger software today that hates his mother and won't allow me to post video!

Check back tomorrow and maybe they'll get their act together!

***UPDATE: Better Late Than Never... Right, Mom!

OBAMA GETS MR. SUPER!

Now we know: Mr. Super ENDORSES Obama!!

Here's an excerpt from the Obama Camp's press release on the endorsement...

Today, California DNC Member and superdelegate Ed Espinoza endorsed Barack Obama, citing his judgment, character, and ability to unite our country for change.

Espinoza said, “I am endorsing Barack Obama today because throughout this process I have seen him show a judgment and character that we need in our next president. From day one he opposed the Iraq war and has a plan to end the war in a responsible way and bring our sons and daughters home. He has shown he has the character to lead our great nation, from his choice to spend his career serving people in the poorest communities in Chicago to his commitment to speaking truth to the American people, even when it isn’t politically convenient to do so. To unify the country at this time in our history we need a president who has these qualities, and that is why I am proud to endorse him today. My good friend Bill Richardson, who backed Obama some weeks ago, knows what it takes to lead and I trust his judgment in this decision as well. I look forward to working with this great movement to bring victory in November.”

Interestingly too, Ed is blogging today at www.mrsuper.org about the Veepstakes game for Obama - Would Bob Casey balance the ticket in PA?

Who knows?! I just hope Mr. Super keeps blogging all the way to November!

Are Polar Bears "Threatened?"

That is the question before the Bush Administration right now following a California Judge's ruling that the Interior Department must decide -- BY MAY 15th -- if the bears deserve protection under the Endangered Species Act.

Some Environmentalists argue that the climate change and melting Ice Caps reduces the Polar Bears natural habitit and thus "threatens" the species.

But others say that we may not know enough of the scientific facts to support this theory of a declining Polar Bear population. There are believed to be about 25,000 Polar Bears in the Artic Circle as best as I can determine.

In January 2007, the US Fish and Wildlife Service asked the Bush Administration to give the bears E.S.A. protection which was what then led to the May 15th deadline.

So being the intrepid reporter that I am - I am going to find out what's really going on here! I have a date with a Polar Bear tomorrow at the Maryland Zoo -- and calls into the Administration.

What do you think?

Do Polar Bears belong on the Endangered Species Act list?

Drop your thoughts to me at griffsnotes@foxnews.com.