The Somali pirates are getting bolder and going after bigger prey. Due to the shipping lanes that pass the east coast of Africa, ships that cannot pass through the Suez Canal have to make their way down the African East Coast to reach the Atlantic Ocean and European, and American ports of call.
Recently the Indian Navy got tough but now there are reports that the ship they sank may not have been a pirate vessel.
My opinion is that the countries who are having their shipping threatened need to band together, as the USA and Swedes did in the early 1800's to take out the Tripoli Pirates. (At that time the English and French were busy fighting each and bribed the pirates to leave their shipping alone.)
Now, too much is at risk to allow a bunch of ignorant pirates to take over oil tankers and freighters, kill crewmen and demand ransoms.
Swift action needs to be taken to go into the pirate bases and destroy the individuals involved.
The history of the seas shows that when pirates overstepped their bounds, whether it was the Spanish Main, the Mediterranean or Southeast Asia, the powers of civilization moved in and destroyed them.
The world is too volatile to allow this kind of action to continued unchecked. One day they will take an oil taker and create an environmental disaster. The nations of the world need to band together, move quickly and destroy the threat.
Pirates, like terrorists, are a threat to all of us and we need to move on a united front to eradicate them.
Its Common Sense!
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Saturday, November 29, 2008
Indian Intelligence
The massacre in Mumbai will be investigated for sometime into the future. It appears that for many in India this is their 9/11.
What is frightening about this attack is that it appears to have been very well planned out and that the targets were not part of the infra-structure - train stations like in England or Spain, or symbolic structures of power, like the Twin Towers in New York. This time it appears that the terrorists wanted the world to know they could go where they want, even luxury hotels and do what they want.
The fact that they not only targeted westerners but also a large number of Indians shows that they were not overly sensitive about their target, rather settling for targets of convenience.
Pakistan has denied any involvement and is sending the top intelligence commander to confer with the Indians. Let's hope that's true.
Since both India and Pakistan have nuclear capability, the idea of things getting out of control there is very frightening. One can only hope that cooler heads will prevail.
Of course the main concern is to find out how the terrorists arrived, how they were supplied and to take the necessary measures to insure it will not happen again. The same measures need to be taken everywhere else, especially here where a person can go to a gun show by a semi-automatic assault rifle, convert it to automatic fire and then go on a rampage.
American gun laws will be a topic for another day.
Right now the USA needs to insure that our intelligence agencies develop close ties with the intelligence agencies of all countries threatened by acts of terrorism, so that information can be shared and used to help each other avoid future tragedies.
In this day of terrorism, we have to be our brother's keeper.
Its Common Sense.
What is frightening about this attack is that it appears to have been very well planned out and that the targets were not part of the infra-structure - train stations like in England or Spain, or symbolic structures of power, like the Twin Towers in New York. This time it appears that the terrorists wanted the world to know they could go where they want, even luxury hotels and do what they want.
The fact that they not only targeted westerners but also a large number of Indians shows that they were not overly sensitive about their target, rather settling for targets of convenience.
Pakistan has denied any involvement and is sending the top intelligence commander to confer with the Indians. Let's hope that's true.
Since both India and Pakistan have nuclear capability, the idea of things getting out of control there is very frightening. One can only hope that cooler heads will prevail.
Of course the main concern is to find out how the terrorists arrived, how they were supplied and to take the necessary measures to insure it will not happen again. The same measures need to be taken everywhere else, especially here where a person can go to a gun show by a semi-automatic assault rifle, convert it to automatic fire and then go on a rampage.
American gun laws will be a topic for another day.
Right now the USA needs to insure that our intelligence agencies develop close ties with the intelligence agencies of all countries threatened by acts of terrorism, so that information can be shared and used to help each other avoid future tragedies.
In this day of terrorism, we have to be our brother's keeper.
Its Common Sense.
Friday, November 28, 2008
Executive Orders
President Bush apparently plans to go out in a blaze of glory - positive or negative depending on your point of view. Evidently he is publishing a series of executive orders that will give the oil & gas companies drilling and exploration rights on Federal lands next to National Parks.
I do not understand why any individual should have that kind of power. Because I do not understand how it works, or why the power ever was ever granted, I decided to write my representatives for some explanations.
The letter follows. As always, feel free to use any part of it when you write to your representatives.
We the people have to make sure that our elected officials are never allowed to have too much power, especially power that could destroy our environment.
Its Common Sense!
Dear Senator
I would appreciate it if you could explain to me just how a president's power of executive orders work. Like many Americans I am very concerned with the reports coming from DC that President Bush will be using executive orders to open up all kinds of energy exploration and drilling on Federal lands next to National Parks. I do not understand why any individual should be allowed the power to make monumental decisions, such as the destruction of the environment, without any oversight. As I said, a brief history of this power, and actions Congress is or should be considering so that no future President can run off half cocked as they are getting ready to leave office.
Along with that, I question why the president should be allowed to grant unlimited pardons to felons and criminals. Its one thing if a person has been found innocent of a crime they were wrongfully put in prison for. However, a presidential pardon is rarely for the innocent. This, like the executive orders for drilling and exploration of natural gas, look like an effort on the President's part to insure that there will be rich individuals to help him with whatever philanthropic plans he has for the future.
No one individual should have that kind of power and I, feel that Congress needs to take action to insure that it never happens again.
Too much power is never a good thing.
I do not understand why any individual should have that kind of power. Because I do not understand how it works, or why the power ever was ever granted, I decided to write my representatives for some explanations.
The letter follows. As always, feel free to use any part of it when you write to your representatives.
We the people have to make sure that our elected officials are never allowed to have too much power, especially power that could destroy our environment.
Its Common Sense!
Dear Senator
I would appreciate it if you could explain to me just how a president's power of executive orders work. Like many Americans I am very concerned with the reports coming from DC that President Bush will be using executive orders to open up all kinds of energy exploration and drilling on Federal lands next to National Parks. I do not understand why any individual should be allowed the power to make monumental decisions, such as the destruction of the environment, without any oversight. As I said, a brief history of this power, and actions Congress is or should be considering so that no future President can run off half cocked as they are getting ready to leave office.
Along with that, I question why the president should be allowed to grant unlimited pardons to felons and criminals. Its one thing if a person has been found innocent of a crime they were wrongfully put in prison for. However, a presidential pardon is rarely for the innocent. This, like the executive orders for drilling and exploration of natural gas, look like an effort on the President's part to insure that there will be rich individuals to help him with whatever philanthropic plans he has for the future.
No one individual should have that kind of power and I, feel that Congress needs to take action to insure that it never happens again.
Too much power is never a good thing.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Socialism in the Americas
Hugo Chavez, president of Venezuela welcomed a Russian fleet, the first of its kind in the Caribbean since the end of the Cold War. Russia's president, Dmitry Medvedev is going to visit not only Venezuela, but also Peru, Brazil, and Cuba. Apparently he is going to attempt to reintroduce Russian influence into the Western Hemisphere. Chavez has agreed to buy a load of weapons, and wants Russia's aid in developing a nuclear power plant. It will be interesting to see if Russia has the funds during the current financial crisis to assist anyone.
Of course we all know Chavez is a socialist of sorts. He wants the government to own and control everything and he wants to stay in power permanently. If that's socialism, then it appears that Venezuela is headed in that direction. We will have to wait and see if Chavez allows a national election when his term is up.
With its new discovery of oil fields, I see Brazil continuing on the capitalist road, not a lot of interest in socialism with the rapidly rising middle class.
However, Peru and Bolivia could be other stories, especially with their current governments and the amount of poverty both countries suffer from. Government taking over the industries that produce a profit is very likely to happen.
Which leads us to North America and our own country. We Americans are now big stock holders in Citigroup. Next week we could be hearing that we own controlling interest of the Big 3. As the Fed makes more money available, putting the deficit in a ridiculous position, instead pf loaning money and expecting interest, the government is taking stock options instead. At this rate the government could end up principal stockholder of several banks. Who knows what could follow.
I realize this is supposedly a short term measure to stimulate the economy, but it looks like the beginning of socialism to me. How far will Pelosi and Reid push this idea? Just what are Obama's plans to stimulate the economy and re-stabilize the country.
Before our very eyes we could be watching a change in the way this country has been governed for over 220 years. In an effort to "save" the country, the folks in Washington just might decide that overall national ownership and control is the way to go. We could end up replacing Cuba as principal socialist state in the western Hemisphere.
Contact your representatives. Ask just how much stock and control does the government need of banks and businesses? With the Patriot Act we allowed some of our rights and liberties to go to the side, so we would be protected from terrorist. Now we are allowing the government to throw our money all over the place, redefining plans when something fails, assuring us they know what they are doing, when in reality it appears they are clueless and have decided to take control themselves.
Socialist governments don't work - please feel free to contradict me if you provide an example of a productive socialist state - we have to make sure the boys and girls in DC don't get carried away with themselves.
Speak up before its too later and we find we have sacrificed even more of our freedoms and liberties.
Its Common Sense!
Of course we all know Chavez is a socialist of sorts. He wants the government to own and control everything and he wants to stay in power permanently. If that's socialism, then it appears that Venezuela is headed in that direction. We will have to wait and see if Chavez allows a national election when his term is up.
With its new discovery of oil fields, I see Brazil continuing on the capitalist road, not a lot of interest in socialism with the rapidly rising middle class.
However, Peru and Bolivia could be other stories, especially with their current governments and the amount of poverty both countries suffer from. Government taking over the industries that produce a profit is very likely to happen.
Which leads us to North America and our own country. We Americans are now big stock holders in Citigroup. Next week we could be hearing that we own controlling interest of the Big 3. As the Fed makes more money available, putting the deficit in a ridiculous position, instead pf loaning money and expecting interest, the government is taking stock options instead. At this rate the government could end up principal stockholder of several banks. Who knows what could follow.
I realize this is supposedly a short term measure to stimulate the economy, but it looks like the beginning of socialism to me. How far will Pelosi and Reid push this idea? Just what are Obama's plans to stimulate the economy and re-stabilize the country.
Before our very eyes we could be watching a change in the way this country has been governed for over 220 years. In an effort to "save" the country, the folks in Washington just might decide that overall national ownership and control is the way to go. We could end up replacing Cuba as principal socialist state in the western Hemisphere.
Contact your representatives. Ask just how much stock and control does the government need of banks and businesses? With the Patriot Act we allowed some of our rights and liberties to go to the side, so we would be protected from terrorist. Now we are allowing the government to throw our money all over the place, redefining plans when something fails, assuring us they know what they are doing, when in reality it appears they are clueless and have decided to take control themselves.
Socialist governments don't work - please feel free to contradict me if you provide an example of a productive socialist state - we have to make sure the boys and girls in DC don't get carried away with themselves.
Speak up before its too later and we find we have sacrificed even more of our freedoms and liberties.
Its Common Sense!
Monday, November 24, 2008
Senator Cardin on Torture
A week or so ago I wrote to my representatives about the USA policy on torture, especially in light of some things that have come out of the Bush Administration. I got back my first response from senator Ben Cardin and will share.
Dear Mr. Wolfe:
Thank you for contacting me regarding your views on the Bush Administration's detainee policy. It is time for Congress to assert its own constitutional prerogatives on these issue.
Congress has an obligation under the Constitution to enact legislation that creates fair trials for accused terrorists that will be upheld by the courts. We also have an obligation to protect our troops that fall into enemy hands, and to uphold American values and the rule of law. Even during wartime, the President must work with Congress and the courts to uphold our Constitution. In 2006 , the Supreme Court in Hamdan v. Rumsfeld struck down the President's military commissions, since they violated the Uniform Code of Military Justice and the Geneva Conventions. The Court noted that Congress, not the President, has the authority under Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution to ``define and punish piracy's and felonies committed on the high seas, and offenses against the law of nations . '' Congress alone can "constitute tribunals . "
I voted against the Military Commission s Act as a member of the House of Representatives in 2006 . I do not believe it is sound legislation, and I think it is susceptible to challenge in the courts. We should be bringing terrorists to justice quickly, and we must create a system that meets basic rule of law standards. I have co-sponsored S. 185, the Habeas Restoration Act, to restore the right of habeas corpus for accused terrorists to petition for a court hearing before an independent judge and challenge their detention.
In December 2007 the Senate Judiciary Committee held a hearing on these issues, and in June of that year the Helsinki Commission also held a hearing on these issues and the implications of Guantanamo for U.S. human rights leadership. I am privileged to serve as the Senate Co-Chair of the Commission. The credibility of the United States demands that we answer our critics when they raise human right issues with us, just as we hope representatives of other countries will respond seriously and substantively when we raise concerns with them. In all the years that I have served as a member of the Commission, no other concern has been raised with the United States by European colleagues as often or earnestly as Guantanamo.
The damage done to the United States goes beyond undermining our status as a global leader on human rights. Our policies and practices regarding Guantanamo and other aspects of our detainee policies have undermined our authority to engage in the effective counter-terrorism measures that are necessary for the very security of this country. It is a dangerous situation for our country if we cannot build and maintain effective global alliances. I am disappointed that the Administration, over 6 years after the 9/11 terrorist attacks, has failed to work with our allies.
On the issue of torture and mistreatment of detainees, I strongly disagree with the President's views on this matter. I voted for the Intelligence Authorization bill for 2008, H.R. 2082, which requires the intelligence agencies to adopt the Army Field Manual's restrictions on "enhanced" interrogation techniques. The Army Field Manual complies with U.S. law and our obligations under the Geneva Conventions. The Manual prohibits "acts of violence or intimidation, including physical or mental torture, or exposure to inhumane treatment as a means of or aid to interrogation." This legislation therefore creates one consistent interrogation policy across both the U.S. military and the intelligence community. President Bush vetoed this legislation in March 2008, and the House voted 225 to 188 to override the veto, short of the two-thirds majority vote needed under the Constitution to override the veto and enact the law.
In June 2008 the Supreme Court announced its decision in the Boumediene v. Bush case, which struck down part of the Military Commissions Act and restored the habeas corpus right of detainees to challenge their detention. The Supreme Court decision rejected the Bush Administration's detention policies for accused terrorists, in which individuals are held without trial or charge indefinitely for years. Part of America 's strength is our respect for the rule of law, and our ability to balance both legitimate security needs with fundamental due process of law protections administered by an independent and fair court procedure . The Supreme Court has inserted an important check and balance on the Executive Branch's war on terrorism policies . I hope that the Bush Administration will now work cooperatively with Congress, the courts, and our international allies to reexamine our current trial procedures in Guantanamo Bay , and to ensure that we try the detainees according to the rule of law.
Thank you for contacting me, and please feel free to do so in the future .
I agree with what he says, but what is missing is some direction. Just what is Congress going to do to make things right? Are they going to issue legislation making it a crime for a US citizen and/or contract employee to willfully torture a suspected terrorist? T
The Senator is heading in the right direction, but he, and the rest in Congress need to get a little more forceful
According to the Supreme Court it is Congress's role to act in these matters. Now they need to act, not talk.
Its Common Sense!
Dear Mr. Wolfe:
Thank you for contacting me regarding your views on the Bush Administration's detainee policy. It is time for Congress to assert its own constitutional prerogatives on these issue.
Congress has an obligation under the Constitution to enact legislation that creates fair trials for accused terrorists that will be upheld by the courts. We also have an obligation to protect our troops that fall into enemy hands, and to uphold American values and the rule of law. Even during wartime, the President must work with Congress and the courts to uphold our Constitution. In 2006 , the Supreme Court in Hamdan v. Rumsfeld struck down the President's military commissions, since they violated the Uniform Code of Military Justice and the Geneva Conventions. The Court noted that Congress, not the President, has the authority under Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution to ``define and punish piracy's and felonies committed on the high seas, and offenses against the law of nations . '' Congress alone can "constitute tribunals . "
I voted against the Military Commission s Act as a member of the House of Representatives in 2006 . I do not believe it is sound legislation, and I think it is susceptible to challenge in the courts. We should be bringing terrorists to justice quickly, and we must create a system that meets basic rule of law standards. I have co-sponsored S. 185, the Habeas Restoration Act, to restore the right of habeas corpus for accused terrorists to petition for a court hearing before an independent judge and challenge their detention.
In December 2007 the Senate Judiciary Committee held a hearing on these issues, and in June of that year the Helsinki Commission also held a hearing on these issues and the implications of Guantanamo for U.S. human rights leadership. I am privileged to serve as the Senate Co-Chair of the Commission. The credibility of the United States demands that we answer our critics when they raise human right issues with us, just as we hope representatives of other countries will respond seriously and substantively when we raise concerns with them. In all the years that I have served as a member of the Commission, no other concern has been raised with the United States by European colleagues as often or earnestly as Guantanamo.
The damage done to the United States goes beyond undermining our status as a global leader on human rights. Our policies and practices regarding Guantanamo and other aspects of our detainee policies have undermined our authority to engage in the effective counter-terrorism measures that are necessary for the very security of this country. It is a dangerous situation for our country if we cannot build and maintain effective global alliances. I am disappointed that the Administration, over 6 years after the 9/11 terrorist attacks, has failed to work with our allies.
On the issue of torture and mistreatment of detainees, I strongly disagree with the President's views on this matter. I voted for the Intelligence Authorization bill for 2008, H.R. 2082, which requires the intelligence agencies to adopt the Army Field Manual's restrictions on "enhanced" interrogation techniques. The Army Field Manual complies with U.S. law and our obligations under the Geneva Conventions. The Manual prohibits "acts of violence or intimidation, including physical or mental torture, or exposure to inhumane treatment as a means of or aid to interrogation." This legislation therefore creates one consistent interrogation policy across both the U.S. military and the intelligence community. President Bush vetoed this legislation in March 2008, and the House voted 225 to 188 to override the veto, short of the two-thirds majority vote needed under the Constitution to override the veto and enact the law.
In June 2008 the Supreme Court announced its decision in the Boumediene v. Bush case, which struck down part of the Military Commissions Act and restored the habeas corpus right of detainees to challenge their detention. The Supreme Court decision rejected the Bush Administration's detention policies for accused terrorists, in which individuals are held without trial or charge indefinitely for years. Part of America 's strength is our respect for the rule of law, and our ability to balance both legitimate security needs with fundamental due process of law protections administered by an independent and fair court procedure . The Supreme Court has inserted an important check and balance on the Executive Branch's war on terrorism policies . I hope that the Bush Administration will now work cooperatively with Congress, the courts, and our international allies to reexamine our current trial procedures in Guantanamo Bay , and to ensure that we try the detainees according to the rule of law.
Thank you for contacting me, and please feel free to do so in the future .
I agree with what he says, but what is missing is some direction. Just what is Congress going to do to make things right? Are they going to issue legislation making it a crime for a US citizen and/or contract employee to willfully torture a suspected terrorist? T
The Senator is heading in the right direction, but he, and the rest in Congress need to get a little more forceful
According to the Supreme Court it is Congress's role to act in these matters. Now they need to act, not talk.
Its Common Sense!
Sunday, November 23, 2008
Free Trade
George W is in Peru and the Asian Pacific Summit talking about the importance of free trade among nations to stimulate the world economy. I know that earlier this year the USA set up agreements with Peru, Panama and Colombia.
What I am not sure about is how exactly free trade works. Does this mean that no tariffs are involved? That the manufacturers can simply send their products to the participating countries with only the manufacturers making or losing a profit? Shouldn't the governments be making something out of the deal?
Not being a financial wizard, I would like any of you who have an idea of what free trade involves to write in and explain it to all of us. Please do it in simply language, I heard some of the finance boys on the talk shows going on and got completely confused.
Enjoy your weekend and stay warm.
Its Common Sense!
What I am not sure about is how exactly free trade works. Does this mean that no tariffs are involved? That the manufacturers can simply send their products to the participating countries with only the manufacturers making or losing a profit? Shouldn't the governments be making something out of the deal?
Not being a financial wizard, I would like any of you who have an idea of what free trade involves to write in and explain it to all of us. Please do it in simply language, I heard some of the finance boys on the talk shows going on and got completely confused.
Enjoy your weekend and stay warm.
Its Common Sense!
Saturday, November 22, 2008
WalMart to the Rescue
I received the following from a relative recently. I thought I would share it because it sounds like a plan to me because its Common Sense!
HOW BIG IS WAL-MART?
1 .At Wal-Mart,Americans spend $36,000,000 every hour of every day.
2 .This works out to $20,928 profit every minute!
3.Wal-Mart will sell more from January 1 to St. Patrick's Day (March 17th) than Target sells all year.
4.Wal-Mart is bigger than Home Depot +Kroger + Target + Sears + Costco +K-Mart combined.
5.Wal-Mart employs 1.6 million people and is the largest private employer. And most can't speak English.
6.Wal-Mart is the largest company in the history of the World.
7.Wal-Mart now sells more food than Kroger & Safeway combined, and keep in mind they did this in only 15 years.
8.During this same period,31 Supermarket chains sought bankruptcy(including Winn-Dixie).
9.Wal-Mart now sells more food than any other store in the world.
10.Wal-Mart has approx 3,900 stores in the USA of which 1,906 are SuperCenters. This is 1,000 more than it had 5 years ago.
11.This year, 7.2 billion different purchasing experiences will occur At a Wal-Mart store.(Earth's population is approximately6.5 billion.)
12.90% of all Americans live within 15 miles of a Wal-Mart.
13.Let Wal Mart bail out Wall Street
HOW BIG IS WAL-MART?
1 .At Wal-Mart,Americans spend $36,000,000 every hour of every day.
2 .This works out to $20,928 profit every minute!
3.Wal-Mart will sell more from January 1 to St. Patrick's Day (March 17th) than Target sells all year.
4.Wal-Mart is bigger than Home Depot +Kroger + Target + Sears + Costco +K-Mart combined.
5.Wal-Mart employs 1.6 million people and is the largest private employer. And most can't speak English.
6.Wal-Mart is the largest company in the history of the World.
7.Wal-Mart now sells more food than Kroger & Safeway combined, and keep in mind they did this in only 15 years.
8.During this same period,31 Supermarket chains sought bankruptcy(including Winn-Dixie).
9.Wal-Mart now sells more food than any other store in the world.
10.Wal-Mart has approx 3,900 stores in the USA of which 1,906 are SuperCenters. This is 1,000 more than it had 5 years ago.
11.This year, 7.2 billion different purchasing experiences will occur At a Wal-Mart store.(Earth's population is approximately6.5 billion.)
12.90% of all Americans live within 15 miles of a Wal-Mart.
13.Let Wal Mart bail out Wall Street
Thursday, November 20, 2008
"Change" in Washington DC
Barack Obama's whole campaign dealt with changing the way things are done in Washington D.C. None of us like what has been going on for eight years and we hoped that Obama would be true to his word. But is that the case?
Thus far every name coming out for his administration is someone currently in Washington, or someone who was in Washington under Bill Clinton's Administration. All of these people are folks from inside the Beltway. They know the 'old" way of getting things done. Are any of them capable of "change"?
I had really hoped that Obama was going to bring in some distinguished Americans not known as being Washington DC insiders. We expected one or two, I really thought Bill Richardson would get Secretary of State - wrong again. But over all I was hoping to see new faces with new ideas. Governors and local officials, no one with DC insights or debts. Instead, Obama has been choosing from inside the "Beltway".
Now, maybe the folks he is choosing are going to surprise us with new thoughts and innovations - but I doubt that. Sadly, I think Obama has already resigned himself to the fact that if he wants to get any of his legislation passed, that he is going to need people who will be able to handle the egos of a Congress and Senate controlled by Democrats, who feel the real power is theirs, not the president's.
I expect that by February Obama will be knocking heads with Pelosi and Reid, neither of whom is very dynamic, and yet for some reason they now lead their respective houses. Frightening if you really thing about it.
I know, Obama has not been inaugurated. Give the man a chance.
Okay, I will, But let me ask you. Do you think Obama will get the support he needs from Congress, or will he find himself compromising on every piece of legislation he submits?
Do you think Obama will receive the support he needs to disengage from Iraq, begin the creation of new energy sources, and recreate the health care system?
We will need to watch and be ready to call Obama and the Democrats to task if they fail to keep their promises. For the most part we let the Republicans get away with murder - figuratively and literally - for eight years. Shame on us! Now we have to hold the president and Congress accountable for their actions.
The day of the silent majority is over, we have to insure that our voices are heard.
Its Common Sense!
Thus far every name coming out for his administration is someone currently in Washington, or someone who was in Washington under Bill Clinton's Administration. All of these people are folks from inside the Beltway. They know the 'old" way of getting things done. Are any of them capable of "change"?
I had really hoped that Obama was going to bring in some distinguished Americans not known as being Washington DC insiders. We expected one or two, I really thought Bill Richardson would get Secretary of State - wrong again. But over all I was hoping to see new faces with new ideas. Governors and local officials, no one with DC insights or debts. Instead, Obama has been choosing from inside the "Beltway".
Now, maybe the folks he is choosing are going to surprise us with new thoughts and innovations - but I doubt that. Sadly, I think Obama has already resigned himself to the fact that if he wants to get any of his legislation passed, that he is going to need people who will be able to handle the egos of a Congress and Senate controlled by Democrats, who feel the real power is theirs, not the president's.
I expect that by February Obama will be knocking heads with Pelosi and Reid, neither of whom is very dynamic, and yet for some reason they now lead their respective houses. Frightening if you really thing about it.
I know, Obama has not been inaugurated. Give the man a chance.
Okay, I will, But let me ask you. Do you think Obama will get the support he needs from Congress, or will he find himself compromising on every piece of legislation he submits?
Do you think Obama will receive the support he needs to disengage from Iraq, begin the creation of new energy sources, and recreate the health care system?
We will need to watch and be ready to call Obama and the Democrats to task if they fail to keep their promises. For the most part we let the Republicans get away with murder - figuratively and literally - for eight years. Shame on us! Now we have to hold the president and Congress accountable for their actions.
The day of the silent majority is over, we have to insure that our voices are heard.
Its Common Sense!
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
The Transition continues
The Obama team has over nine million dollars for the transition and inauguration, yet fear it will not be enough. They are out soliciting for more funds. Maybe during this economic crisis their first act of leadership would be to stay within the budget that has been allocated. The rest of us certainly are trying to stay within our means.
Tom Daschel appears set to be Secretary of Health, Education and Welfare. Eric Holder for Attorney General. I still read Hillary Clinton leading the pack for Secretary of State and I still think its a bad idea, not with standing Bill's pledge to change his fund raising tactics if she gets the office. After all, their is nothing definite about a cabinet position, the president can ask you to resign at any time, and if he does, you can't just go back to the Senate.
Interesting that Robert Gates could stay on as Secretary of Defense, at least for a while. A little continuity for the troops in this troubled time is probably a smart move.
We'll have to see who the other nominations are as Obama fills out his cabinet and submits their names to Congress for confirmation.
One interesting note: I read that Beau Biden, Joe's son in the Delaware National Guard, has stated that he is not interested in his father's Senate seat, but plans to put in his full tour in Iraq.
Good for you Beau, maybe I misjudged you.
The economy is still falling with little sign of hope. If the big three don't get their loan, I guess its foreign cars, or maybe we can return to the horse and buggy to support American industry.
Should the taxpayers and private citizens fork up more money for the transition? How big an Inaugural do we as a country need? How much money spent on this "change" will make us feel good?
Voice your opinion. Freedom of speech is the best freedom we have.
Its Common sense!
Tom Daschel appears set to be Secretary of Health, Education and Welfare. Eric Holder for Attorney General. I still read Hillary Clinton leading the pack for Secretary of State and I still think its a bad idea, not with standing Bill's pledge to change his fund raising tactics if she gets the office. After all, their is nothing definite about a cabinet position, the president can ask you to resign at any time, and if he does, you can't just go back to the Senate.
Interesting that Robert Gates could stay on as Secretary of Defense, at least for a while. A little continuity for the troops in this troubled time is probably a smart move.
We'll have to see who the other nominations are as Obama fills out his cabinet and submits their names to Congress for confirmation.
One interesting note: I read that Beau Biden, Joe's son in the Delaware National Guard, has stated that he is not interested in his father's Senate seat, but plans to put in his full tour in Iraq.
Good for you Beau, maybe I misjudged you.
The economy is still falling with little sign of hope. If the big three don't get their loan, I guess its foreign cars, or maybe we can return to the horse and buggy to support American industry.
Should the taxpayers and private citizens fork up more money for the transition? How big an Inaugural do we as a country need? How much money spent on this "change" will make us feel good?
Voice your opinion. Freedom of speech is the best freedom we have.
Its Common sense!
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Remembering Father Joseph Glancy TOR
We received word today of the death of Father Joseph Glancy TOR. He was 78 and would have been a priest 50 years this coming May.
Joe was one of my companions on my first adventure in Amazing Amazonas in 1977. Along with Father Robert Glavey TOR and Father James Angert TOR, we boardsed a river boat, saw the encounter of the waters - the first time was great but it is still exciting everytime I see it, then went down the Amazon until it was time to turned right up the Rio Madeira.
We went up river until the the town of Nova Olinda do Norte, where Frei Jose was the pastor. During that 18 hour voyage Jose and Robert shared stories over beer and rice and beans.From Nova Olinda the remaining three of us boarded a smaller boat and went on to Borba and finally Nova Aripuna where I stayed for the summer.
Three years later, as an ordained priest, I returned to Nova Olinda and worked with Frei Jose.He and I both departed Nova Olinda two years later, me to marry, he to return to the States and take up a series of new ministries, first as a hospital chaplain, then as the pastor of small parishes in West Virginia, New Jersey, South Dakota and finally as an assistant pastor in Baltimore until he retired to the TOR mother house in Loretto, PA.
During that time Joe and I were in off and on contact. A good, kind hearted man who inspired me in my youth by his generous spirit and his great sense of humor.
He will be missed but we pray that he may rest in peace.
Joe was one of my companions on my first adventure in Amazing Amazonas in 1977. Along with Father Robert Glavey TOR and Father James Angert TOR, we boardsed a river boat, saw the encounter of the waters - the first time was great but it is still exciting everytime I see it, then went down the Amazon until it was time to turned right up the Rio Madeira.
We went up river until the the town of Nova Olinda do Norte, where Frei Jose was the pastor. During that 18 hour voyage Jose and Robert shared stories over beer and rice and beans.From Nova Olinda the remaining three of us boarded a smaller boat and went on to Borba and finally Nova Aripuna where I stayed for the summer.
Three years later, as an ordained priest, I returned to Nova Olinda and worked with Frei Jose.He and I both departed Nova Olinda two years later, me to marry, he to return to the States and take up a series of new ministries, first as a hospital chaplain, then as the pastor of small parishes in West Virginia, New Jersey, South Dakota and finally as an assistant pastor in Baltimore until he retired to the TOR mother house in Loretto, PA.
During that time Joe and I were in off and on contact. A good, kind hearted man who inspired me in my youth by his generous spirit and his great sense of humor.
He will be missed but we pray that he may rest in peace.
Monday, November 17, 2008
What next?
CitiCorp has announced it will be letting about 10% of its work force go. The other banking and financial "giants" are following suit. No telling how many thousand unemployed will be hitting the streets by the end of November. Black Friday after Thanksgiving just might become Red Friday by the time everything is said and done.
Things are getting worse not better, regardless of bailouts and promises of hope. The Stock Market continues down, not just here, world wide. Japan has declared itself in a recession, will our government do the same?
GM, Ford and Chrysler are still standing with their hands out. Do they deserve anything?
A lot of questions, few answers. A lot of folks have opinions, me included. But that's all they are, opinions. I am not in a position to take action. The truth of the matter is that neither is George W. Pelosi and Reid will never allow Bush to look good during him final months.
Which means that come the end of January Barach Obama and the Democrat Congress are going to need to put up or shut up.
This could mean that they immediately put together a Civilian Work Corp to begin construction on clean energy projects, such as windmills, nuclear power plants and natural gas pipelines. There is no sense giving someone a handout when there can be meaningful employment available.
FDR started it at the end of the Depression, then got a big war to stimulate the economy. I could do without the Big War. Hopefully, by working with the energy and power companies, the government can stimulate growth, jobs, clean energy and bringing jobs back to the USA. If we don't have to buy foreign oil, maybe there will be more money at home to support our own industries.
Needless to say I don't have all the answers. I might not have any, although I do have a lot of questions.
What are your concerns? What scares you right now and what scares you in the future?
Let me know and let your representatives in DC know.
The future belongs to all of us. We have to work together to guarantee that we will have one.
Its Common Sense!
Things are getting worse not better, regardless of bailouts and promises of hope. The Stock Market continues down, not just here, world wide. Japan has declared itself in a recession, will our government do the same?
GM, Ford and Chrysler are still standing with their hands out. Do they deserve anything?
A lot of questions, few answers. A lot of folks have opinions, me included. But that's all they are, opinions. I am not in a position to take action. The truth of the matter is that neither is George W. Pelosi and Reid will never allow Bush to look good during him final months.
Which means that come the end of January Barach Obama and the Democrat Congress are going to need to put up or shut up.
This could mean that they immediately put together a Civilian Work Corp to begin construction on clean energy projects, such as windmills, nuclear power plants and natural gas pipelines. There is no sense giving someone a handout when there can be meaningful employment available.
FDR started it at the end of the Depression, then got a big war to stimulate the economy. I could do without the Big War. Hopefully, by working with the energy and power companies, the government can stimulate growth, jobs, clean energy and bringing jobs back to the USA. If we don't have to buy foreign oil, maybe there will be more money at home to support our own industries.
Needless to say I don't have all the answers. I might not have any, although I do have a lot of questions.
What are your concerns? What scares you right now and what scares you in the future?
Let me know and let your representatives in DC know.
The future belongs to all of us. We have to work together to guarantee that we will have one.
Its Common Sense!
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Hillary Clinton for Secretary of State
Barrack Obama is working on putting his cabinet together and during the past week he has evidently been interviewing candidates for various positions. One of the big headliners to come out of this process is Hillary Clinton, who reportedly is being considered for the position of Secretary of State.
I personally do not believe that Hillary should become a member of Obama's cabinet. Not that I don't think she's qualified, I actually believe she could handle any of the cabinet posts, I just think she will prove much more valuable to Obama from her position in the Senate. The Democrats may end up with the numbers in the Senate they need for a majority, but the more seasoned veterans they have, the better their chances of passing the legislature they want.
Hillary can do a lot more pushing through legislation than could a newly appointed replacement. After all, Obama and Biden are going to be replaced by new blood, no need in getting rid of all of the veterans.
Bill Richardson seems like the best choice for Secretary of State, in my opinion. He was already work on the international scene through the UN, he has connections, and I think he will work well with Obama.
Obama needs to keep Hillary as an attack dog in the Senate. As long as the two of them can make some comprises on health care, I think Obama will find Hillary to be a valuable member of his team.
Put your best people in the places they can do the most good.
Its Common Sense!
I personally do not believe that Hillary should become a member of Obama's cabinet. Not that I don't think she's qualified, I actually believe she could handle any of the cabinet posts, I just think she will prove much more valuable to Obama from her position in the Senate. The Democrats may end up with the numbers in the Senate they need for a majority, but the more seasoned veterans they have, the better their chances of passing the legislature they want.
Hillary can do a lot more pushing through legislation than could a newly appointed replacement. After all, Obama and Biden are going to be replaced by new blood, no need in getting rid of all of the veterans.
Bill Richardson seems like the best choice for Secretary of State, in my opinion. He was already work on the international scene through the UN, he has connections, and I think he will work well with Obama.
Obama needs to keep Hillary as an attack dog in the Senate. As long as the two of them can make some comprises on health care, I think Obama will find Hillary to be a valuable member of his team.
Put your best people in the places they can do the most good.
Its Common Sense!
Saturday, November 15, 2008
Economy - Not bad everywhere
Last night my wife and I decided to go out to dinner after completing a series of errands. We have not been out to dinner since August.
We went to the local Applebys and were surprised to find the parking lot filled and a twenty minute wait for a table. When we left we past a few other small chain restaurants - Ruby Tuesday and Bob Evans - and saw their parking lots were also filled. However, one of the fancier restaurants in the area closed last week because of lack of customers.
So it appears that people are willing to get out for dinner if they can keep it under 20 bucks a person.
Of course that is not the case in all parts of the country and as the bad economic news continues we will have to wait and see what over all effect it has on the country.
We will see what comes out of the summit in DC this weekend and if the world leaders can come up with a plan that will help everyone. I have a feeling greed and national pride will win out and that in the end it will be every country for themselves. Of course, maybe I'm just a Negative Nelly.
Have a good weekend, enjoy your family and friends and thank God for another day of life.
Its Common Sense!
We went to the local Applebys and were surprised to find the parking lot filled and a twenty minute wait for a table. When we left we past a few other small chain restaurants - Ruby Tuesday and Bob Evans - and saw their parking lots were also filled. However, one of the fancier restaurants in the area closed last week because of lack of customers.
So it appears that people are willing to get out for dinner if they can keep it under 20 bucks a person.
Of course that is not the case in all parts of the country and as the bad economic news continues we will have to wait and see what over all effect it has on the country.
We will see what comes out of the summit in DC this weekend and if the world leaders can come up with a plan that will help everyone. I have a feeling greed and national pride will win out and that in the end it will be every country for themselves. Of course, maybe I'm just a Negative Nelly.
Have a good weekend, enjoy your family and friends and thank God for another day of life.
Its Common Sense!
Thursday, November 13, 2008
New Direction for Bailout
Yesterday we learned that the bailout is going to change course and go in a new direction. Rather than buying up risky mortgages, to supposedly open up the banks funds, now the money is going to go directly to banks for them to start lending. That's right, the government's plan is to make money available for us to take out loans, get credit cards and go deeper in debt.
Where do they come up with these plans?
The country got in the current crisis due to poor lending practices, now the government is going to provide the money for the banks to do it all over again. Why save these banks? They screwed up and should pay for their greed. Better to support some small and up coming banks that just might have learned a lesson and will follow follow good business practices.
The same is true for GM, Ford and Chrysler. They insisted in putting out the gas guzzling SUVS and pickups and are paying the price. They should pay the price, not me. As I have said, no money to them without very careful controls.
Of course I thought there was going to all kinds of oversight with the bailout, but that doesn't seem to be working. Why isn't Congress all over this protecting our money? I haven't heard anyone say the Treasury Secretary shouldn't change the rules of the game in mid-field.
Even with plus numbers for the stock market today, they do not really foretell a positive change, they rather show greed once again raising its head.
Be careful with your money, any deal that sounds too good to be true is.
Keep an eye on the D.C. gang and let them know when you KNOW they are wrong.
Its Common Sense!
Where do they come up with these plans?
The country got in the current crisis due to poor lending practices, now the government is going to provide the money for the banks to do it all over again. Why save these banks? They screwed up and should pay for their greed. Better to support some small and up coming banks that just might have learned a lesson and will follow follow good business practices.
The same is true for GM, Ford and Chrysler. They insisted in putting out the gas guzzling SUVS and pickups and are paying the price. They should pay the price, not me. As I have said, no money to them without very careful controls.
Of course I thought there was going to all kinds of oversight with the bailout, but that doesn't seem to be working. Why isn't Congress all over this protecting our money? I haven't heard anyone say the Treasury Secretary shouldn't change the rules of the game in mid-field.
Even with plus numbers for the stock market today, they do not really foretell a positive change, they rather show greed once again raising its head.
Be careful with your money, any deal that sounds too good to be true is.
Keep an eye on the D.C. gang and let them know when you KNOW they are wrong.
Its Common Sense!
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Letter to Representatives about US torture policy
As I said in an earlier statement, the film "Taxi to the Dark Side" upset me in a number of ways regarding the USA's policy regarding the treatment of prisoners and torture. I sent the following letter to my senators and congressman. As always, feel free to us any part of it in contacting your own representatives for answers.
Dear Senator
I recently watched a documentary entitled "Taxi to the Dark Side" a disturbing report on how the US military has treated prisoners since our initial invasion of Afghanistan. Frankly the murders, tortures and abuse allowed at Bagram Air Force Base and Abu Ghraib prison in Iraq is shocking.
What is more shocking is that after these atrocities came to light, the US government has still done little to change the practice.
A group of enlisted personnel were court marshaled for actions taken at the sites listed above, but no officers were similarly disciplined. No officers went to prison. If these enlisted personnel were guilty of dereliction of duty, how is it possible that their officers, and right up the chain of command are not equally guilty?
The documentary also makes mention that as part of the renewal of the Patriot Act in 2006 the executive branch made it clear that they would reveal what they wanted to reveal when they wanted to reveal it and that no one was to question their actions. The act passed. Did you vote in favor of giving the executive branch this power? Where is Congressional oversight?
Prisoners being held in GITMO were told that if they were not terrorist when they were apprehended, they probably would be if they ever were freed.
What is our government doing? Are we Nazis? Are our intelligent agencies the Gestapo of the 21st century?
The information given to then Secretary of State of Colin Powell to justify the invasion of Iraq was obtained by water boarding an alleged high ranking Al Qaeda operative. Needless to say he told the CIA what they wanted to hear. (Interesting note that the torture was done in Egypt, evidentially the CIA out sources this kind of work to keep their hands “clean”.)
Of course after the fact the CIA had to admit that maybe their information was wrong.
America has always stood for liberty, justice and human rights. We have wandered at times, but we have never been accused of being torturers and murderers until recently. We are portraying an image to the world similar to the one Hollywood portrayed to us of the Nazi atrocities during World War II.
Prisoners need to tried and sentenced. They have a right to counsel. They have a right to know what crimes they are accused of performing.
No one should have their body battered that it causes their death. No one should be water boarded.
When we act like the enemy, then the enemy has won because they have brought us down to their level.
What I want to know is what controls are in place now to insure that the US is not accused of abusing human rights?
That our prisoners are treated humanely, according to the Geneva Convention? What oversight is in place to make sure the military and intelligence agencies do not get over enthusiastic in their questioning of alleged terrorists and insurgents?
Senator, as a new administration prepares to take over in two months, it is imperative that our government mandates that American will once again stand for liberty, justice and especially human rights for all.
Thank you.
Michael Wolfe
Dear Senator
I recently watched a documentary entitled "Taxi to the Dark Side" a disturbing report on how the US military has treated prisoners since our initial invasion of Afghanistan. Frankly the murders, tortures and abuse allowed at Bagram Air Force Base and Abu Ghraib prison in Iraq is shocking.
What is more shocking is that after these atrocities came to light, the US government has still done little to change the practice.
A group of enlisted personnel were court marshaled for actions taken at the sites listed above, but no officers were similarly disciplined. No officers went to prison. If these enlisted personnel were guilty of dereliction of duty, how is it possible that their officers, and right up the chain of command are not equally guilty?
The documentary also makes mention that as part of the renewal of the Patriot Act in 2006 the executive branch made it clear that they would reveal what they wanted to reveal when they wanted to reveal it and that no one was to question their actions. The act passed. Did you vote in favor of giving the executive branch this power? Where is Congressional oversight?
Prisoners being held in GITMO were told that if they were not terrorist when they were apprehended, they probably would be if they ever were freed.
What is our government doing? Are we Nazis? Are our intelligent agencies the Gestapo of the 21st century?
The information given to then Secretary of State of Colin Powell to justify the invasion of Iraq was obtained by water boarding an alleged high ranking Al Qaeda operative. Needless to say he told the CIA what they wanted to hear. (Interesting note that the torture was done in Egypt, evidentially the CIA out sources this kind of work to keep their hands “clean”.)
Of course after the fact the CIA had to admit that maybe their information was wrong.
America has always stood for liberty, justice and human rights. We have wandered at times, but we have never been accused of being torturers and murderers until recently. We are portraying an image to the world similar to the one Hollywood portrayed to us of the Nazi atrocities during World War II.
Prisoners need to tried and sentenced. They have a right to counsel. They have a right to know what crimes they are accused of performing.
No one should have their body battered that it causes their death. No one should be water boarded.
When we act like the enemy, then the enemy has won because they have brought us down to their level.
What I want to know is what controls are in place now to insure that the US is not accused of abusing human rights?
That our prisoners are treated humanely, according to the Geneva Convention? What oversight is in place to make sure the military and intelligence agencies do not get over enthusiastic in their questioning of alleged terrorists and insurgents?
Senator, as a new administration prepares to take over in two months, it is imperative that our government mandates that American will once again stand for liberty, justice and especially human rights for all.
Thank you.
Michael Wolfe
Senator Ben Cardin on Pork
I received this response from Senator Ben cardin - Democrat Maryland - regarding pork added to the bailout. See if it makes sense to you because I found it confusing.
Of course if everyone in DC thinks like this, no wonder the country is in its current situtation.
Dear Mr. Wolfe:
Thank you for contacting me about the troubled state of our nation's economy. Over the past few months, I have heard from thousands of Maryland families who are struggling with the aftershocks of the housing crisis and the declining stock market, as well a s high energy and food prices. These economic concerns are foremost on my list of issues to address in the weeks to come.
As your Senator, I want to assure you that I take your concerns seriously. In these difficult times, I am committed to working in a bipartisan manner to find effective legislative solutions to benefit working families, who have been hardest hit by the downturn. As a member of the Senate Budget Committee, I will be involved in crafting next year's budget resolution, which will become the blueprint for Congress' spending decisions. It will be my top priority on the Committee to keep a watchful eye on the nation's balance sheet and guarantee that ef forts to repair our economy are in the best interests of taxpayers.
After years of inadequate oversight and lax enforcement of existing laws, Congress must also act to guarantee greater transparency and accountability so that consumers, homeowners, and investor s are adequately protected. Additionally, we must reform our complex system of regulation so that we can help stabilize the markets and increase the availability of credit to families and small businesses.
As we look forward to the new Administration and the 111th Congress, which will convene in January, I ask you to continue to keep me informed of your views on e fforts to improve the economy. With your help, we can work together in pursuit of bipartisan solutions to improve the lives of working families and our country as a whole.
Thank you again for writing to me.
Of course if everyone in DC thinks like this, no wonder the country is in its current situtation.
Dear Mr. Wolfe:
Thank you for contacting me about the troubled state of our nation's economy. Over the past few months, I have heard from thousands of Maryland families who are struggling with the aftershocks of the housing crisis and the declining stock market, as well a s high energy and food prices. These economic concerns are foremost on my list of issues to address in the weeks to come.
As your Senator, I want to assure you that I take your concerns seriously. In these difficult times, I am committed to working in a bipartisan manner to find effective legislative solutions to benefit working families, who have been hardest hit by the downturn. As a member of the Senate Budget Committee, I will be involved in crafting next year's budget resolution, which will become the blueprint for Congress' spending decisions. It will be my top priority on the Committee to keep a watchful eye on the nation's balance sheet and guarantee that ef forts to repair our economy are in the best interests of taxpayers.
After years of inadequate oversight and lax enforcement of existing laws, Congress must also act to guarantee greater transparency and accountability so that consumers, homeowners, and investor s are adequately protected. Additionally, we must reform our complex system of regulation so that we can help stabilize the markets and increase the availability of credit to families and small businesses.
As we look forward to the new Administration and the 111th Congress, which will convene in January, I ask you to continue to keep me informed of your views on e fforts to improve the economy. With your help, we can work together in pursuit of bipartisan solutions to improve the lives of working families and our country as a whole.
Thank you again for writing to me.
Monday, November 10, 2008
Transition
The transition began for real with Obama's visit to the White House. In the past this was done in December but President Bush had President-Elect Obama show up as soon as possible. You have to wonder just how eager George W is to get to the ranch in Crawford and dump everything in Obama's lap.
Obama will be gaining additional economic woes. It appears that AIG needs more money and rather than a bailout, the US government is going to buy stock. Let me know when your stock certificates arrive in the mail.
Circuit City has declared bankruptcy, doesn't appear that it is going to be a very Merry Christmas for a lot of folks.
The three major US automakers are looking for loans. I think they should be forced to produce natural gas burning cars within the year before any loans are approved. I also believe that Obama should allow the oil companies to do their drilling, so long as they guarantee that every gas station they own - and the independents they provide fuel to - will have at least two natural gas pumps operating within one year. Let the auto companies and oil companies put up or shut up before they receive anything else from the government.
We all will have to see what kind of deals are around for "Black"Friday. (I hate those early morning specials where you have to be at the store at 5am.)
Finally, Joe Biden won his Senate seat from Delaware. So the question is who will serve in his place? I am curious to see if the governor of Delaware appoints Biden's son to fulfill the term. Perhaps this is the beginning of a Biden dynasty from the First State.
Tomorrow we celebrate Veteran's Day, remembering those brave men and women who have served their country in the military since 1776. Take a moment tomorrow to thank them for their many sacrifices. It is because of them that people like me are free to write and say what I want. Our military may make mistakes, but overall they are a fine group of dedicated individuals who deserve our respect.
Its Common Sense!
Obama will be gaining additional economic woes. It appears that AIG needs more money and rather than a bailout, the US government is going to buy stock. Let me know when your stock certificates arrive in the mail.
Circuit City has declared bankruptcy, doesn't appear that it is going to be a very Merry Christmas for a lot of folks.
The three major US automakers are looking for loans. I think they should be forced to produce natural gas burning cars within the year before any loans are approved. I also believe that Obama should allow the oil companies to do their drilling, so long as they guarantee that every gas station they own - and the independents they provide fuel to - will have at least two natural gas pumps operating within one year. Let the auto companies and oil companies put up or shut up before they receive anything else from the government.
We all will have to see what kind of deals are around for "Black"Friday. (I hate those early morning specials where you have to be at the store at 5am.)
Finally, Joe Biden won his Senate seat from Delaware. So the question is who will serve in his place? I am curious to see if the governor of Delaware appoints Biden's son to fulfill the term. Perhaps this is the beginning of a Biden dynasty from the First State.
Tomorrow we celebrate Veteran's Day, remembering those brave men and women who have served their country in the military since 1776. Take a moment tomorrow to thank them for their many sacrifices. It is because of them that people like me are free to write and say what I want. Our military may make mistakes, but overall they are a fine group of dedicated individuals who deserve our respect.
Its Common Sense!
Sunday, November 9, 2008
Taxi to the Dark Side
Last night I watch the documentary - Taxi to the Dark Side - at the recommendation of my daughter. Specially the film dealt with the fate of an Afghan taxi driver who was captured by American forces in 2002, placed in prison in Bagram Air Force Base, and died with in a couple of days. The Army reported that the death was accidental, the death certificate filled out by the Army medical examiner and given to the family (who showed it to a New York Times reporter because they did not read English) listed the cause of death as a homicide.
The captain in charge of the military intelligence unit was transferred to Iraq to work in Abu Ghraib and we all know what happened there.
The sad thing about the story is that the United States has become the bad guy. Growing up I saw the movies about World War II where the Nazis in the form of the Gestapo or SS tortured prisoners or innocent civilians. Americans were always above that kind of action. We believed in the law and democracy and everyone having their day in court. That does not appear to be the case any longer.
When George W signed off on renewing the "Patriot" Bill in 2006 he reserved the right for the executive branch to tell what they wanted to tell, do what they wanted to do, and not be held accountable while the war on terrorism is going on. Therefore, anyone who commits a crime against US law against a suspected terrorist or insurgent receives a get out of jail card.
Our Congress gave the Bush Administration the votes to do this.
Most heart breaking is the fact that John McCain, one of the most outspoken critics of the US torture policy since 911, signed off on the bill, supposedly to get the endorsement of conservative Republicans. I hope that is wrong. I plan to write Senator McCain and maybe get his side of the story.
Torture does not work. Trust me, show me a pair of pliers and I will tell you whatever you want to know. That evidently happened shortly before Colin Powell went before the United Nations with his "proof" that Saddam Hussein had train Al Queda fighters and had chemical and biological weapons of mass destruction.
The CIA captured a high ranking member of Al Queda, flew him to Egypt - evidently we are out sourcing our torture - and after a bit of water boarding he told the CIA exactly what they wanted to hear. It was only after the invasion of Iraq that the CIA came forward and admitted that maybe their information was not 100%.
I have complained about GITMO from the beginning. Prisoners must be treat by the standards of the Geneva Convention. When we treat the enemy like they treat us, then we become the enemy and they are the true victors of the fight.
I believe the bad guys need to be put down, either in gun battles or when proven guilty by a court of law, put away in jail for life. But nothing excuses torture.
I think we need to go to George W and have him tell us when the information obtained from tortured saved the United States from an imminent attack of any kind. I doubt if there is an answer.
As you can tell I am upset with this, which means I will be writing my representatives in Washington and getting their views. I am curious how they voted on the renewal of the "Patriot" Act. I will be sharing my letters as I always do. In addition I will probably write to President Elect Obama and see where he stands on the issue.
Torture is something none of us in this country can ever condone - regardless of what Jack Bauer says on "24".
Say no to torture! Tell your representatives you are against torture and that you believe all parties, at all levels who are involved in torture should be punished. It is a sad commentary that the only ones court martial for the deaths in Bagram and Abu Ghraib were enlisted men and women. One of the charges against them was dereliction of duty. What about the dereliction of duty on the part of their commanders, and the commanders of those commanders?
Dick Cheney came out publicly and said the US would have to do things never done before and we have allowed him to get away with it.
Shame on all of us!!
The captain in charge of the military intelligence unit was transferred to Iraq to work in Abu Ghraib and we all know what happened there.
The sad thing about the story is that the United States has become the bad guy. Growing up I saw the movies about World War II where the Nazis in the form of the Gestapo or SS tortured prisoners or innocent civilians. Americans were always above that kind of action. We believed in the law and democracy and everyone having their day in court. That does not appear to be the case any longer.
When George W signed off on renewing the "Patriot" Bill in 2006 he reserved the right for the executive branch to tell what they wanted to tell, do what they wanted to do, and not be held accountable while the war on terrorism is going on. Therefore, anyone who commits a crime against US law against a suspected terrorist or insurgent receives a get out of jail card.
Our Congress gave the Bush Administration the votes to do this.
Most heart breaking is the fact that John McCain, one of the most outspoken critics of the US torture policy since 911, signed off on the bill, supposedly to get the endorsement of conservative Republicans. I hope that is wrong. I plan to write Senator McCain and maybe get his side of the story.
Torture does not work. Trust me, show me a pair of pliers and I will tell you whatever you want to know. That evidently happened shortly before Colin Powell went before the United Nations with his "proof" that Saddam Hussein had train Al Queda fighters and had chemical and biological weapons of mass destruction.
The CIA captured a high ranking member of Al Queda, flew him to Egypt - evidently we are out sourcing our torture - and after a bit of water boarding he told the CIA exactly what they wanted to hear. It was only after the invasion of Iraq that the CIA came forward and admitted that maybe their information was not 100%.
I have complained about GITMO from the beginning. Prisoners must be treat by the standards of the Geneva Convention. When we treat the enemy like they treat us, then we become the enemy and they are the true victors of the fight.
I believe the bad guys need to be put down, either in gun battles or when proven guilty by a court of law, put away in jail for life. But nothing excuses torture.
I think we need to go to George W and have him tell us when the information obtained from tortured saved the United States from an imminent attack of any kind. I doubt if there is an answer.
As you can tell I am upset with this, which means I will be writing my representatives in Washington and getting their views. I am curious how they voted on the renewal of the "Patriot" Act. I will be sharing my letters as I always do. In addition I will probably write to President Elect Obama and see where he stands on the issue.
Torture is something none of us in this country can ever condone - regardless of what Jack Bauer says on "24".
Say no to torture! Tell your representatives you are against torture and that you believe all parties, at all levels who are involved in torture should be punished. It is a sad commentary that the only ones court martial for the deaths in Bagram and Abu Ghraib were enlisted men and women. One of the charges against them was dereliction of duty. What about the dereliction of duty on the part of their commanders, and the commanders of those commanders?
Dick Cheney came out publicly and said the US would have to do things never done before and we have allowed him to get away with it.
Shame on all of us!!
We have all grown too complacent in our lives and have passed on our moral responsibilities to others. If it does not touch us directly, we do not care.
Take the time to find out what our country is doing. Write, protest, and tell your representatives that we want the America of our fore fathers, not the America of terrorist hunting crazy men.
It's Common Sense!
Saturday, November 8, 2008
California's Proposition 8
Tuesday was a bad day in California for those in favor of same sex marriage. Now the law states that a marriage is the legal union between a man and woman.
Needless to say there has been a lot of commentary on both sides of this issue. I remember not to long ago when scores of couples, including a famous one or two, went forth to have their unions legally recognized. It will be interesting to see if the California State Supreme Court will dissolve those unions, or if they will be allowed them to remain legal. Of course, how can they be considered legal if they are against the law?
Of course the real question is does any government - be it federal, state or local - have the right to define what marriage is? Most states can't even agree on what age should be legal for consent to marriage.
The truth is that the "moral" tone of our country is set in our Christian/Judeo roots. Marriage in the Bible, be it Old or New testament, was always a union between a man and woman. Anything different was considered immoral.
For centuries the story of Sodom and Gomorrah was used as proof that God condemned same sex unions, after all, both cities were destroyed because the townsmen tried to "attack" the guests at Lot's home.
Like many, I believed and agreed with that mentality. For a long time I had a real problem with the concept of homosexuality, until I met some and discovered that they are everyday people who have an attraction to the same sex. I don't understand it, and I am still uncomfortable with displays of affection in public (of course I am not too good with heterosexual displays of affection in public) but I realized it was their life and as long as it didn't infringe on me, they had the same right as me to love and care for who they wanted.
I became a proponent of civil unions. My Catholic indoctrination still made me certain that marriage was union between a man and a woman. After all, for centuries the Church encouraged marriage for the procreation of good little Catholics (love didn't get involved until later on.)
Then I did a little research and discovered that maybe the folks of Sodom and Gomorrah had not been homosexuals, but that just maybe they had been violators of even more sacred obligation - Hospitality.
In the Middle East, and also in the tradition of many nomadic tribes, including the Indians of North and South American, is the time honored tradition of offering hospitality to the stranger in your mist. Once they have entered your town, village, encampment and you have broken bread and shared salt, you are obligated to protect them, even if they are your enemy. Things change once they are outside the area of your residences, but while they are there, the host is honor bound to protect them.
That being the case, was God's anger and wrath directed at the violation of this ancient code, rather than the idea of homosexuality? To this day in many cultures, hospitality is still a sacred honor.
With that new thought I decided that it was time for me to rethink my thoughts on the concept of marriage. Although it is still hard for me because of my background, I have come to the conclusion that no man made entity - be it government or church - has the right to tell any adult who they can and cannot marry. This has to be the choice of the couple involved.
As I have in the past I return to Pope Paul VI's encyclical Humane Vitae. The informed conscious of the adult individual has to be allowed to make the final decision.
In addition, this will now force me to reevaluate my thoughts on polygamy. I'll let you know what I come up with on that topic.
Jesus said to "love one another as I love you." We may not always agree or understand the decisions, life styles or desires of those around us, but as long as they respect us and our space, we need to respect them and their space.
Its Common Sense!
Needless to say there has been a lot of commentary on both sides of this issue. I remember not to long ago when scores of couples, including a famous one or two, went forth to have their unions legally recognized. It will be interesting to see if the California State Supreme Court will dissolve those unions, or if they will be allowed them to remain legal. Of course, how can they be considered legal if they are against the law?
Of course the real question is does any government - be it federal, state or local - have the right to define what marriage is? Most states can't even agree on what age should be legal for consent to marriage.
The truth is that the "moral" tone of our country is set in our Christian/Judeo roots. Marriage in the Bible, be it Old or New testament, was always a union between a man and woman. Anything different was considered immoral.
For centuries the story of Sodom and Gomorrah was used as proof that God condemned same sex unions, after all, both cities were destroyed because the townsmen tried to "attack" the guests at Lot's home.
Like many, I believed and agreed with that mentality. For a long time I had a real problem with the concept of homosexuality, until I met some and discovered that they are everyday people who have an attraction to the same sex. I don't understand it, and I am still uncomfortable with displays of affection in public (of course I am not too good with heterosexual displays of affection in public) but I realized it was their life and as long as it didn't infringe on me, they had the same right as me to love and care for who they wanted.
I became a proponent of civil unions. My Catholic indoctrination still made me certain that marriage was union between a man and a woman. After all, for centuries the Church encouraged marriage for the procreation of good little Catholics (love didn't get involved until later on.)
Then I did a little research and discovered that maybe the folks of Sodom and Gomorrah had not been homosexuals, but that just maybe they had been violators of even more sacred obligation - Hospitality.
In the Middle East, and also in the tradition of many nomadic tribes, including the Indians of North and South American, is the time honored tradition of offering hospitality to the stranger in your mist. Once they have entered your town, village, encampment and you have broken bread and shared salt, you are obligated to protect them, even if they are your enemy. Things change once they are outside the area of your residences, but while they are there, the host is honor bound to protect them.
That being the case, was God's anger and wrath directed at the violation of this ancient code, rather than the idea of homosexuality? To this day in many cultures, hospitality is still a sacred honor.
With that new thought I decided that it was time for me to rethink my thoughts on the concept of marriage. Although it is still hard for me because of my background, I have come to the conclusion that no man made entity - be it government or church - has the right to tell any adult who they can and cannot marry. This has to be the choice of the couple involved.
As I have in the past I return to Pope Paul VI's encyclical Humane Vitae. The informed conscious of the adult individual has to be allowed to make the final decision.
In addition, this will now force me to reevaluate my thoughts on polygamy. I'll let you know what I come up with on that topic.
Jesus said to "love one another as I love you." We may not always agree or understand the decisions, life styles or desires of those around us, but as long as they respect us and our space, we need to respect them and their space.
Its Common Sense!
Friday, November 7, 2008
Youth to take over the Senate
Big news from the Senate today. Robert Byrd, 91, senior senator from West Virginia (Thomas Jefferson ordered him to map out the region that would become the state during his presidency) has decided to step down from his position as chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee when the new Congress convenes. He has decided it is time to pass the torch to the younger generation.
Daniel Inouye, 84, senior senator from Hawaii, will accept the torch and lead the fight to get the money the government needs. I feel better knowing a young man will be leading such an important committee.
Other big news today is that the Obama's will not be able to adopt a shelter dog because one of the girls is allergic. I expect that breeders of hyper allergenic dogs will be lining up at the Obama house in Chicago with all kinds of beautiful puppies.
Obama is getting his economic team, as well as the rest of his team, together to be ready to move forward quickly in later January. However, he will remain in the background until then because you can only have one president at a time. (The Catholics had three popes ruling at the same, and that split rule was a disaster.)
We will watch as Congress begins making plans for the new term.
We will pray that they won't spend a lot of our money. If they go on a spending spree taxes can only go in one direction, regardless of what they say.
Read the details of any stimulus package very carefully, unless they are willing to pay off my mortgage, I don't need the government going into anymore debt on my account.
Let's all be fiscally responsible.
It's common sense.
Daniel Inouye, 84, senior senator from Hawaii, will accept the torch and lead the fight to get the money the government needs. I feel better knowing a young man will be leading such an important committee.
Other big news today is that the Obama's will not be able to adopt a shelter dog because one of the girls is allergic. I expect that breeders of hyper allergenic dogs will be lining up at the Obama house in Chicago with all kinds of beautiful puppies.
Obama is getting his economic team, as well as the rest of his team, together to be ready to move forward quickly in later January. However, he will remain in the background until then because you can only have one president at a time. (The Catholics had three popes ruling at the same, and that split rule was a disaster.)
We will watch as Congress begins making plans for the new term.
We will pray that they won't spend a lot of our money. If they go on a spending spree taxes can only go in one direction, regardless of what they say.
Read the details of any stimulus package very carefully, unless they are willing to pay off my mortgage, I don't need the government going into anymore debt on my account.
Let's all be fiscally responsible.
It's common sense.
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Fallout!!
It didn't take long for the fallout to begin.
Evidently Sarah Palin did not do too well in geography, unless everyone else in Alaska thought Africa was a country and not a continent. After all, you can see Russia and Canada from Alaska, but Africa is out of sight.
Joe Lieberman is probably going to pay the price for supporting his friend John McCain. Word is that Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid called Joe in for a little chat, probably to let him know that he will no longer be the chairman for the Homeland Security committee. If Al Franken becomes the new DEMOCRAT Senator from Minnesota maybe that will be his reward.
The leaders of the American Big Three - GM, Ford and Chrysler - met with Nancy Pelosi today to see about a 25 billion excellent term loan. Yesterday Pelosi was talking about another stimulus package.
Do you think Pelosi has a Chinese lover and that's why she wants to get the country more in debt to China? How much money does this woman want to borrow? How big a debt does she want to leave for her grandchildren?
I watched a teary eyed George W talk to his staff in what I guess was his initial farewell.
We wish you luck in Crawford, George.
Barney, George W's best friend, took a bite out of a reporter, something I bet George W would have loved to do.
Today Obama got his first national security briefing and is probably asking himself, Why the hell did I want to be president?
The stock market drop another 400+. I believe in the past two days its gone down by ten percent. Evidently not everyone has jumped onto the time for change bandwagon.
The fancy stores - Sachs 5th Avenue, Neiman Marcus - sales are down, which means that the rich are so worried about Obama's tax proposals that they are already starting to hide money under the mattress.
Hopefully calm will prevail and things will get back on balance. Its going to be a bumpy winter.
Pay careful attention to the next plan Congress comes out with to "help" the economy. Could be we'll be selling our butts before we know it.
We should have gotten rid of the incumbents!!
Its Common sense!
Evidently Sarah Palin did not do too well in geography, unless everyone else in Alaska thought Africa was a country and not a continent. After all, you can see Russia and Canada from Alaska, but Africa is out of sight.
Joe Lieberman is probably going to pay the price for supporting his friend John McCain. Word is that Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid called Joe in for a little chat, probably to let him know that he will no longer be the chairman for the Homeland Security committee. If Al Franken becomes the new DEMOCRAT Senator from Minnesota maybe that will be his reward.
The leaders of the American Big Three - GM, Ford and Chrysler - met with Nancy Pelosi today to see about a 25 billion excellent term loan. Yesterday Pelosi was talking about another stimulus package.
Do you think Pelosi has a Chinese lover and that's why she wants to get the country more in debt to China? How much money does this woman want to borrow? How big a debt does she want to leave for her grandchildren?
I watched a teary eyed George W talk to his staff in what I guess was his initial farewell.
We wish you luck in Crawford, George.
Barney, George W's best friend, took a bite out of a reporter, something I bet George W would have loved to do.
Today Obama got his first national security briefing and is probably asking himself, Why the hell did I want to be president?
The stock market drop another 400+. I believe in the past two days its gone down by ten percent. Evidently not everyone has jumped onto the time for change bandwagon.
The fancy stores - Sachs 5th Avenue, Neiman Marcus - sales are down, which means that the rich are so worried about Obama's tax proposals that they are already starting to hide money under the mattress.
Hopefully calm will prevail and things will get back on balance. Its going to be a bumpy winter.
Pay careful attention to the next plan Congress comes out with to "help" the economy. Could be we'll be selling our butts before we know it.
We should have gotten rid of the incumbents!!
Its Common sense!
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Congratulations Barack Obama!!
Well Obama did it, he is the first Afro/Euro American president in the history of the United States and I congratulate him on his victory.
Although the popular vote only gave him a six percent victory, he got the right states to back him and had almost a two thirds majority in the Electoral College. (This is a system we need to eliminate and allow the vote of the people to decide who the victor is.)
Because of his background - the fact that he is half black - Obama is going to be held up to higher measure than the forty-three presidents who have come before him. (Let's hope he can do better on intelligence than George W and better on morality than Billy Boy.)
The stock market went down, the president of Russia wants to talk, but is ordering missiles near the Poland border, President Karzai of Afghanistan wants the Americans to spot killing innocent civilians, as does the Pakistani government. Iraq wants the USA out in the near future, but with a lot of guarantees that could be difficult to provide.
President Elect Obama is going to have his hands full and his worst enemy could end up being the members of his own party who have taken over the Congress. How many of them - Pelosi, Reed, Clinton, etc, are going to be willing to play Indian to Obama's chief? Is Hillary going to demand a compromise between her health plan and Obama's before she'll vote for it? Are Pelosi and Reed going to graciously fade into the background and allow Obama to be the shining light of the democratic Party?
What deals will Obama have to cut with his own party - before he even gets around to dealing with the Republicans - to get any of his legislation passed?
The next four years will be interesting and I am certain they will provide a lot of material for me to speak out about.
I hope all goes well for Obama. I hope he is able to pull off his dreams - at as little expense to me as possible.
The majority got their wish, let's hope they are right.
Say prayer tonight for the good of our country.
Its Common Sense!
Although the popular vote only gave him a six percent victory, he got the right states to back him and had almost a two thirds majority in the Electoral College. (This is a system we need to eliminate and allow the vote of the people to decide who the victor is.)
Because of his background - the fact that he is half black - Obama is going to be held up to higher measure than the forty-three presidents who have come before him. (Let's hope he can do better on intelligence than George W and better on morality than Billy Boy.)
The stock market went down, the president of Russia wants to talk, but is ordering missiles near the Poland border, President Karzai of Afghanistan wants the Americans to spot killing innocent civilians, as does the Pakistani government. Iraq wants the USA out in the near future, but with a lot of guarantees that could be difficult to provide.
President Elect Obama is going to have his hands full and his worst enemy could end up being the members of his own party who have taken over the Congress. How many of them - Pelosi, Reed, Clinton, etc, are going to be willing to play Indian to Obama's chief? Is Hillary going to demand a compromise between her health plan and Obama's before she'll vote for it? Are Pelosi and Reed going to graciously fade into the background and allow Obama to be the shining light of the democratic Party?
What deals will Obama have to cut with his own party - before he even gets around to dealing with the Republicans - to get any of his legislation passed?
The next four years will be interesting and I am certain they will provide a lot of material for me to speak out about.
I hope all goes well for Obama. I hope he is able to pull off his dreams - at as little expense to me as possible.
The majority got their wish, let's hope they are right.
Say prayer tonight for the good of our country.
Its Common Sense!
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Voting 2008
I am happy to say that I was able to enter my voting location - a local elementary school- at 3:45pm this afternoon and encountered no lines. There were five additional voting machines, which meant no waiting during the time I was there. The only part of the national election we dealt with was the presidential and local Congressional election.
For good or bad, the future will tell, I cast my presidential vote for Obama and Biden. I cast my Congressional vote for the Republican running against the incumbent. (I don't like the idea of the president and the majority of Congress being in the same party and I never vote for the Congressional or Senate incumbent as a matter of principal.)
I hope you all took the time to vote, and thought about the local issues you found on your ballot.
Its our country, we have to make it better.
Its Common Sense!
For good or bad, the future will tell, I cast my presidential vote for Obama and Biden. I cast my Congressional vote for the Republican running against the incumbent. (I don't like the idea of the president and the majority of Congress being in the same party and I never vote for the Congressional or Senate incumbent as a matter of principal.)
I hope you all took the time to vote, and thought about the local issues you found on your ballot.
Its our country, we have to make it better.
Its Common Sense!
Monday, November 3, 2008
Go Forth and Do Your Civic Duty!!
Tomorrow is the day. All of us have to hope and pray that the decisions we make tomorrow on our ballots will work for the good of our country.
I see that GM is down 50% in sales and Ford is down 30%. Circuit City is closing 150 stores.
There is going to be a lot of unemployment this Christmas, maybe higher than in most of our life times.
The men and women we vote in for the next four years (two years for Congress, what a stupid policy) are going to have to be strong enough and smart enough to put this country on keel without causing any major damage. They must be cost effective, there is no place for wasteful spending. We the voters, need to hold them to task and let them know when we think they are straying from the job we hired them to do.
Go out tomorrow and cast your vote!
Vote early, vote often, and for the love of God -
VOTE OUT THE INCUMBENTS!!!!!!!!!!
Its Common Sense!
I see that GM is down 50% in sales and Ford is down 30%. Circuit City is closing 150 stores.
There is going to be a lot of unemployment this Christmas, maybe higher than in most of our life times.
The men and women we vote in for the next four years (two years for Congress, what a stupid policy) are going to have to be strong enough and smart enough to put this country on keel without causing any major damage. They must be cost effective, there is no place for wasteful spending. We the voters, need to hold them to task and let them know when we think they are straying from the job we hired them to do.
Go out tomorrow and cast your vote!
Vote early, vote often, and for the love of God -
VOTE OUT THE INCUMBENTS!!!!!!!!!!
Its Common Sense!
Sunday, November 2, 2008
Final Two Days of 2008 National Election
Last night John McCain made his debut as a comedian on Saturday Night Life and I thought he did a pretty good job. He got in his digs about Obama's campaign money, made few jokes about himself and over all worked really well with Tina Fey. I don't see how it will hurt him and who knows, there may even be a few undecided voters who decide on the funny guy.
I heard that our troops overseas, especially those in Iraq and Afghanistan are having trouble submitting absentee ballots. Of all the folks who have a stake in this election, I would put them at the top of the list, their vote should really count. I plan to do some research and see if its true or not.
In regards to voting, the stories already coming from the states that have early voting show there are still problems with certain systems. You would think in this age of technology that we could get it right, but that apparently isn't so. Maybe we need to go back to a universal paper ballot where you put a red X in the box of the candidate of your choice. It might take a little longer to tally the totals, but there just might be a lot less frustration and confusion.
I read that both campaigns have evicted journalist from their planes who represent papers or magazines that have come out for the opposition. Nothing like freedom of the press.
Which brings me to my question? Do you think the networks (forget the cable news they are so biased it is depressing) are being neutral in this election? The fact that NBC waited to do the series of interviews on Obama during the week prior to the election at rallies, while they had McCain and Palin in a studio - is that saying something? Did Katie Couric interview Joe Biden and ask any questions about the newspapers he reads?
On election night I believe the press should be in an enforced blackout until all of the ballots are counted. Then they can tell us who the winners are. I hate hearing "With two percent of the ballots counted we are predicting so and so as the winner." What does that do for the folks in California, Oregon, Washington, Alaska and Hawaii who are still in line?
Everyone is entitled to vote without any pressure from outside sources. The media needs to be reined in or in the very near future we will find that we won't vote, they'll make the choices for us.
Use these next two days to weigh the consequences of your vote.
Remember : VOTE OUT THE INCUMBENTS!!!
Its Common Sense!
I heard that our troops overseas, especially those in Iraq and Afghanistan are having trouble submitting absentee ballots. Of all the folks who have a stake in this election, I would put them at the top of the list, their vote should really count. I plan to do some research and see if its true or not.
In regards to voting, the stories already coming from the states that have early voting show there are still problems with certain systems. You would think in this age of technology that we could get it right, but that apparently isn't so. Maybe we need to go back to a universal paper ballot where you put a red X in the box of the candidate of your choice. It might take a little longer to tally the totals, but there just might be a lot less frustration and confusion.
I read that both campaigns have evicted journalist from their planes who represent papers or magazines that have come out for the opposition. Nothing like freedom of the press.
Which brings me to my question? Do you think the networks (forget the cable news they are so biased it is depressing) are being neutral in this election? The fact that NBC waited to do the series of interviews on Obama during the week prior to the election at rallies, while they had McCain and Palin in a studio - is that saying something? Did Katie Couric interview Joe Biden and ask any questions about the newspapers he reads?
On election night I believe the press should be in an enforced blackout until all of the ballots are counted. Then they can tell us who the winners are. I hate hearing "With two percent of the ballots counted we are predicting so and so as the winner." What does that do for the folks in California, Oregon, Washington, Alaska and Hawaii who are still in line?
Everyone is entitled to vote without any pressure from outside sources. The media needs to be reined in or in the very near future we will find that we won't vote, they'll make the choices for us.
Use these next two days to weigh the consequences of your vote.
Remember : VOTE OUT THE INCUMBENTS!!!
Its Common Sense!
Saturday, November 1, 2008
Guantanamo Bay
I read an article that "Camp Justice" in the Guantanamo Bay military compound is not seeing a lot of action because things are winding down. Both Obama and McCain have promised to close the prisoner of "war" camp, and move the inhabitants to other locations.
Of course the real question is if any of these people are terrorists, or simply individuals who happened to in the wrong place at the wrong time. Granted, I am sure there are some Taliban fanatics in the crowd, but their only crime - other than the fact that they are ignorant, chauvinistic, and want to live in the stone age with an AK 47 - is the fact that they fought against invaders of their country and were captured. That makes them a war criminal, not a terrorist. As far as I know we are not trying war crimes of the Taliban, at least not yet. The way things are currently going in Afghanistan that could change in the future. These individuals are prisoners of war and should be treated as such.
Thus far very little "hard" evidence has been provided as to the terrorist status of any of the prisonners. The Guantanamo prison camp was a mistake, one I hope we never repeat.
We boast about America's desire for justice for all. Its time we started showing the world just what true justices entails.
Its Common Sense!
Of course the real question is if any of these people are terrorists, or simply individuals who happened to in the wrong place at the wrong time. Granted, I am sure there are some Taliban fanatics in the crowd, but their only crime - other than the fact that they are ignorant, chauvinistic, and want to live in the stone age with an AK 47 - is the fact that they fought against invaders of their country and were captured. That makes them a war criminal, not a terrorist. As far as I know we are not trying war crimes of the Taliban, at least not yet. The way things are currently going in Afghanistan that could change in the future. These individuals are prisoners of war and should be treated as such.
Thus far very little "hard" evidence has been provided as to the terrorist status of any of the prisonners. The Guantanamo prison camp was a mistake, one I hope we never repeat.
We boast about America's desire for justice for all. Its time we started showing the world just what true justices entails.
Its Common Sense!
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