Democratic Yankees 3.

The New York Yankees are (again) the World Series.

I have previously written about the uncanny ability of the New York Yankees to win the World Series under Democratic Presidents, and now the Yankees are again in the World Series and a Democrat is in the White House...

Although the city of Philadelphia has a special place in my heart, as I was treated very well by the Philadelphians the 2 weeks I spent at the naval base there, I will be rooting for the Yankees and not their opponents the Philladelphia Phillies. First, because I usually root for the American League champion in the World Series, and secondly, because there is just something right about Yankees as the champions of the baseball world.

When I became a baseball fan in the 1970's, the Yankees were the best, with players such as Ron Guidry, Catfish Hunter, Thurman Munson and Reggie Jackson. When I grew older and discovered the history of baseball, the Yankees grew in my apprecaition. From Babe Ruth, to Lou Gherig, to Joe DiMaggio, to Micky Mantle and onwards, this baseball club has been 'The Club' in baseball and you do not need to be Yankees fan to appreciate the institution that is the New York Yankees.

Finally, I also hope the Yankees win because it is also good to be reminded that a Democrat is president.

Obama for Peace!

For what? This was my first thought, when I heard that Barack Obama had been awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. I couldn't seem to remember any significant effort for peace by the US president, or any ground breaking event that he had been responsible for.

I read the official announcement of the Nobel committee, and yes, I agree that seeking nuclear disarmament is radical and multilateral diplomacy is good, but awarding Obama the prize now still seemed premature.

So I asked myself "why would a Norwegian committee award Obama a prize to be handed out in Oslo?" And then it was completely clear to me. The Norwegians are envious of Denmark! Obama has already visited Copenhagen this month for the IOC conference and may (just maybe) be coming back in December for the climate conference.

Anybody witnessing the media and security frenzy of Obama's first visit to Copenhagen, will know how significant it is for a small country to receive a visit by a sitting US president. Suddenly Denmark felt what we already knew their hearts, that we were the center of the world and that all eyes were fixed on us.

Now, just to spoil our moment in the spotlight, Obama will be flying to Oslo to accept their little prize, and the Norwegians will get theirs!