Archives 2006

<body topmargin=0 leftmargin=0 marginheight=0 marginwidth=0> <table cellpadding=0 cellspacing=0 border=0><tr> <td valign="top" colspan=2 height=95 BGCOLOR="#000000" TEXT="#F7F7FF"> <div> <FONT SIZE="6" COLOR="#FFFFFF" FACE="Vrinda" ><B>the</B><I><B><U>right</U></B></I><B>slant.com</B></FONT><B>.......... </B><B>never afraid to be </B><I><B><U>right</U></B></I><B>!</B><FONT SIZE="1" COLOR="#009900" FACE="Arial" ><B>    </B></FONT><FONT SIZE="2" COLOR="#009900" FACE="Arial" ><B> </B><B>|     </B><A HREF="index.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="therightslant.com"><U><B>home</B></U></A></FONT></div> <div> <B>Archives 2006</B></div> <div> </div> </td> </tr><tr> <td valign="top" width=190 BGCOLOR="#000000" TEXT="#F7F7FF"> <div> Back to the home page...<A HREF="index.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="therightslant.com"><U>therightslant.com</U></A></div> <div> Back to... <A HREF="id186.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Archives 2007"><U>Archives 2007</U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="id170.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Published Credits"><U>Published Credits</U></A></div> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> Comment by email:</div> <div> <A HREF="mailto:respond@eatananimal.com" TARGET="_top" TITLE="mailto:respond@eatananimal.com"><U>respond@therightslant.com</U></A></div> <div> Your opinions:</div> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div> <A HREF="id99.htm" TARGET="_top" TITLE="Readers Voice"><U>Reader's Voice</U></A></div> <bR> <bR> </td> <td valign="top" height=385 BGCOLOR="#FFFFFF" TEXT="#080000"> <div> <B><U>Archives 2006</U></B></div> <div> <A HREF="#there_s_only_one_way_to_deal_with_bugs" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">There's only one way to deal with bugs</U></A>: Sometimes force is the only option. (608)</div> <div> <A HREF="#a_few_questions_and_thoughts_about" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">A few questions and thoughts about</U></A> recent events: General observations on current affairs. (727)</div> <div> <A HREF="#what_was_it_like_on_the_outskirts_of" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">What was it like on the outskirts of</U></A><A HREF="#what_was_it_like_on_the_outskirts_of" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U> </U></A>Bethlehem?: Can we truly relate to what the shepherds witnessed the night of Jesus' birth? (708)</div> <div> <A HREF="#feminists_find_fault_in_the__perfect_" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Feminists find fault in the “perfect” female</U></A>: Who or what poses the worst influence for young girls? (728)</div> <div> <A HREF="#will_the_blame_game_debut_alongside_ps3_" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Will the blame game debut alongside PS3?</U></A>: Behavior surrounding video game debut highlights some of society's missing virtues. (720)</div> <div> <A HREF="#a_merry_christmas_to_all__with_no" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">A Merry Christmas to all… with no</U></A> apologies.: We shouldn't apologize for the recognition or traditions of Christmas. (656) </div> <div> <A HREF="#animal_activist_s_present_dismal" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Animal activist's present dismal</U></A><A HREF="#animal_activist_s_present_dismal" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U> argument on bear hunting</U></A>: Animal rights nonsense misses the target yet again. (680)</div> <div> <A HREF="#_lactivists__expose_more_than_their" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">“Lactivists” expose more than their</U></A><A HREF="#_lactivists__expose_more_than_their" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U> </U></A><A HREF="#_lactivists__expose_more_than_their" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U>breast</U></A>s: Staged public breastfeeding protests abound with self-absorbed activism. (732)</div> <div> <A HREF="#confidence_performs_while_arrogance" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Confidence performs while arrogance</U></A><A HREF="#confidence_performs_while_arrogance" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U> b</U></A><A HREF="#confidence_performs_while_arrogance" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U>oast</U></A>s: Confidence and arrogance represent opposing ideologies. One works, the other doesn't. (754)</div> <div> <A HREF="#a_few_thoughts_on_the_election_and_its" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">A few thoughts on the election and its</U></A><A HREF="#a_few_thoughts_on_the_election_and_its" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U> aftermath:</U></A> (688) </div> <div> <A HREF="#the_basics_of_ignorance_stupidity_and" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">The basics of ignorance stupidity and</U></A><A HREF="#the_basics_of_ignorance_stupidity_and" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U> liberalism:</U></A> Here is an easy way to understand the difference between the ignorant, the stupid and the liberal mind. (647)</div> <div> <A HREF="#gop_defense_proves_to_be_a_bad_offense" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">GOP defense proves to be a bad offense</U></A>: Republicans lost by abandoning the conservative agenda. (758)</div> <div> <A HREF="#kerry_suffers_recurrence_of_an_old" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Kerry suffers recurrence of an old</U></A><A HREF="#kerry_suffers_recurrence_of_an_old" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U> malady</U></A>: Senator's military comment is only the latest example of foot-in-mouth disease.</div> <div> <A HREF="#democrats_manipulate_poverty_for" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Democrats manipulate poverty for</U></A><A HREF="#democrats_manipulate_poverty_for" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U> electoral gains</U></A>: Despite Dean Smith, Democrats have done nothing to suggest they are serious about alleviating poverty. (630)</div> <div> <A HREF="#rough_seas_make_better_sailors" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Rough seas make better sailors</U></A>: Overcoming the storms leaves us better prepared for life's circumstances. (604)</div> <div> <A HREF="#a_moored_boat_can_t_rise_with_the_tide" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">A Moored Boat Can't Rise with the Tide</U></A>: We can't ride on top of a flood when our boat is tied to the dock. (612)</div> <div> <A HREF="#what_happened_to_sexual_harassment_" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">What Happened to Sexual Harassment?</U></A>: Instances of, and attitudes toward, sexual harassment changed dramatically in late 1997. Why? (689)</div> <div> <A HREF="#some_views_on_life_and_current_events_4" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Some Views on Life and Current Events-4</U></A><A HREF="#some_views_on_life_and_current_events_4" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U> (638)</U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="#some_views_on_life_and_current_events_3" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Some Views on Life and Current Events-3</U></A><A HREF="#some_views_on_life_and_current_events_3" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U> (820)</U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="#some_views_on_life_and_current_events_2" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Some Views on Life and Current Events-2</U></A><A HREF="#some_views_on_life_and_current_events_2" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U> (731)</U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="#some_views_on_life_and_current_events_1" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Some Views on Life and Current Events-1</U></A><A HREF="#some_views_on_life_and_current_events_1" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U> (750)</U></A></div> <div> <A HREF="#car_renters_to_pay_for_uptown_s_next" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Car renters to pay for uptown's next</U></A><A HREF="#car_renters_to_pay_for_uptown_s_next" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U> </U></A>crystal cathedrals</div> <div> Frivolous commission meeting gives way to new tax on rental cars (1233)</div> <div> (This piece is a trial article for the Rhinoceros Times, a conservative weekly in Charlotte, NC. It is based on a Mecklenburg County Commissioners Meeting.)</div> <div> <A HREF="#the_pope_s_comment_strikes_the_heart_of" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">The Pope's Comment Strikes the Heart of</U></A><A HREF="#the_pope_s_comment_strikes_the_heart_of" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U> Jihad: </U></A>A 600-year-old quote prompts the typical Muslim response. (636)</div> <div> <A HREF="#it_s_all_in_how_you_say_it" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">It's All in How You Say It</U></A>: You can avoid conflict by choosing your words carefully. (660)</div> <div> <A HREF="#the_nonaligned_movement_is_aligned_1" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">The Nonaligned Movement is aligned</U></A><A HREF="#the_nonaligned_movement_is_aligned_1" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U> </U></A>against freedom: This collection of Third World countries are aligned in promoting authoritarianism, genocidal government, and communism. (559)</div> <div> <A HREF="#bargains_and_prices_aren_t_always_what" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Bargains and prices aren't always what</U></A><A HREF="#bargains_and_prices_aren_t_always_what" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U> </U></A>they appear: A reality check on discounts and prices. (789)</div> <div> <A HREF="#five_years_later" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Five Years Later</U></A>: How are we doing in the war on "Islami-facists"? (1149)</div> <div> <A HREF="#deceive_and_conquer_strategy_drives" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Deceive and Conquer Strategy Drives</U></A><A HREF="#deceive_and_conquer_strategy_drives" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U> </U></A>Animal Rights: Activists use emotion to promote "animal rights". (709)</div> <div> <A HREF="#contraception_is_no_substitute_for" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Contraception is no Substitute for</U></A><A HREF="#contraception_is_no_substitute_for" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U> Morality:</U></A> The use of contraception is not the problem. "Family planners" are. (670)</div> <div> <A HREF="#jimmy_carter_a_national_disgrace" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Jimmy Carter A National Disgrace</U></A><A HREF="#jimmy_carter_a_national_disgrace" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U>:</U></A> Better to remain silent and be thought a fool... (686)</div> <div> <A HREF="#hypocrisy_runs_deep_on_religious_freedom" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Hypocrisy Runs Deep on Religious Freedom</U></A><A HREF="#hypocrisy_runs_deep_on_religious_freedom" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U>:</U></A> Another example of the ACLU's anti-Christian bias. (759)</div> <div> <A HREF="#racial_and_ethnic_profiling_is_pure" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Racial and Ethnic Profiling is Pure</U></A> Common Sense: Racial profiling is self-preservation, not racism. (711)</div> <div> <A HREF="#some_views_on_life_and_current_events_1" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Some Views on Life and Current Events</U></A> (608)</div> <div> <A HREF="#democracy_was_a_dirty_word_to_the" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Democracy Was a Dirty Word to the</U></A> Founding Fathers: True democracy opens the door to tyranny. (769)</div> <div> <A HREF="#an_open_apology_for_the_wrongs_of_life" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">An Open Apology for the Wrongs of Life</U></A>: I apologize to everyone whose failures are the fault of white men. (784)</div> <div> <A HREF="#popular_politics_makes_poor_economics" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Popular Politics Makes Poor Economics</U></A>: Minimum wage laws serve politicians more so than workers. (781)</div> <div> <A HREF="#black_americans_can_succeed_without_al" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Black Americans Can Succeed Without Al</U></A> Sharpton: The modern civil rights "leader" does more harm than good. (655)</div> <div> <A HREF="#let_the_u_n__first_examine_itself" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Let the U.N. First Examine Itself</U></A>: The United Nation's abysmal record on securing human rights. (608)</div> <div> <A HREF="#some_views_on_life_and_current_events" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Some Views on Life and Current Events</U></A>: A brief look at the world we live in. (616)</div> <div> <A HREF="#refuting_the_lies_of_the_pro_abortion" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Refuting the Lies of the Pro-Abortion</U></A><A HREF="#refuting_the_lies_of_the_pro_abortion" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U> </U></A>Advocates: Abortion supporters twist the facts on the Child Custody Protection Act. (552)</div> <div> <A HREF="#victimhood_expands_yet_again" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Victimhood Expands Yet Again</U></A>: New psychological "disorder"  will add to the victim list. (630)</div> <div> <A HREF="#collectivist_mentality_on_display_in" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Collectivist Mentality on Display in</U></A> Los Angeles: Another liberal assault on private property. (588)</div> <div> <A HREF="#history_repeats_in_southern_lebanon" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">History Repeats in Southern Lebanon</U></A>: Only victory in war can ensure a lasting peace. (567)</div> <div> <A HREF="#lessons_unlearned_in_new_orleans" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Lessons Unlearned in New Orleans</U></A>: Refusing to face the true lessons of Katrina. (524)</div> <div> <A HREF="#a_second_declaration_may_be_in_order" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">A Second Declaration May be in Order</U></A>: What would our Founding Fathers think of us on this 230th Independence Day? (590)</div> <div> <A HREF="#an_ounce_of_prevention_or_a_pound_of" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">An Ounce of Prevention or a Pound of</U></A><A HREF="#an_ounce_of_prevention_or_a_pound_of" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U> Cure</U></A>: Evaluating abortion, gay marraige, in vitro ferilization, and contraception. (749)</div> <div> <A HREF="#let_the_punishment_fit_the_success" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Let the Punishment Fit the Success</U></A>: Insight on the "morality" of Congress. (712)</div> <div> <A HREF="#absence_of_victory_creates_a_void" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Absence of Victory Creates a Void</U></A>: The Korean War influences the current nuclear confrontation. What are our options? (821)</div> <div> <A HREF="#acts_of_an_enemy" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Acts of an Enemy</U></A>: Recent news stories indicate why we are at war with Islamic fanatics. (606)</div> <div> <A HREF="#should_we_stand_or_run_" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">S</U></A><A HREF="#should_we_stand_or_run_" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U>hould We Stand or Run?</U></A>: Ignoring a danger doesn't make it less dangerous. (652)</div> <div> <A HREF="#science_and_the_political_agenda" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Science and the Political Agenda</U></A>: The evidence remains inconclusive on man-caused global warming.</div> <div> <A HREF="#on_war_and_massacre" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">On War and Massacre</U></A><A HREF="#on_war_and_massacre" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U>:</U></A> Haditha "massacre" put in persepective. (896)</div> <div> <A HREF="#crime_can_pay_after_all" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Crime Can Pay After All</U></A>: Senate immigration bill makes the law a relative term. (616)</div> <div> <A HREF="#congress_is_not_above_the_law" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Congress is not Above the Law</U></A>: The Speech & Debate Clause of the Constitution does not excuse congressional arrogance. (520)</div> <div> <A HREF="#al_gore_and_the_temple_of_doom" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Al Gore and the Temple of Doom</U></A>: New documentary is just more hot air from Al Gore. (603)</div> <div> <A HREF="#today_s_media_in_a_historical_light" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Today's Media in a Historical Light</U></A>: Even the freedom of the press has its limits. (555)</div> <div> <A HREF="#politicizing_the_spy_game" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Politicizing the Spy Game</U></A>: Media outlets selectively report government abuses of our freedom. (787)</div> <div> <A HREF="#the_agenda_behind_gay_marriage" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">The Agenda Behind Gay Marriage</U></A>: Demand for gay "marriages" is more a demand for acceptance than equality. (528)</div> <div> <A HREF="#wanted_a_few_good_representatives" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Wanted: A Few Good Representatives</U></A>: Voter referendums allow politicians to abdicate their responsibility. (475)</div> <div> <A HREF="#the_free_press_vs__fair_trials" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">The Free Press vs. Fair Trials</U></A>: 1st Amendment does not grant free reign to media outlets. (571)</div> <div> <A HREF="#learn_first_and_lead_later" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Learn First and Lead Later</U></A><A HREF="#learn_first_and_lead_later" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U>:</U></A> Gallaudet student protests prove some life lessons remain unlearned. (606)</div> <div> <A HREF="#liberals_and_the_low_moral_ground" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Liberals and the Low Moral Ground</U></A>: Liberal pundits expose their hypocrisy in treatment of Patrick Kennedy story. (494)</div> <div> <A HREF="#what_happened_to_reverent_memorials_" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">What Happened to Reverent Memorials?</U></A>: Monument to Flight 93 should honor those who stormed the cockpit, not the members of the planning commission. (534)</div> <div> <A HREF="#ride_the_crazy_train" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Ride the Crazy Train</U></A>: Amtrak should stand alone, or die trying. (482)</div> <div> <A HREF="#american_priorities_and_a_gallon_of_gas" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">American Priorities and a Gallon of Gas</U></A>: Consumers are the best example of greed in the gas price debate. (536)</div> <div> <A HREF="#beelzebub_speaks" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Beelzebub Speaks</U></A>: Bin Laden speaks for all Islamic fanatics, even those who don't want to admit it. (514)</div> <div> <A HREF="#mickey_mouse_saoui_type_of_terrorist" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Mickey Mouse-saoui Type of Terrorist</U></A>: Death or life in prison for Zacarias Moussaoui? (550)</div> <div> <A HREF="#battle_of_new_orleans" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Battle of New Orleans</U></A>: Mayoral primary indicated that Katrina lessons fell on deaf ears. (461)</div> <div> <A HREF="#smart_growth_promotes_exodus" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Smart Growth Promotes Exodus</U></A>: "Smart Growth" planners helping drive families from urban areas. (757)</div> <div> <A HREF="#the_case_for_the_court_system" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">The Case for the Court System</U></A>: Rape allegations at Duke indicate why we try the accused in criminal court, instead of the court of public opinion. (740)</div> <div> <A HREF="#aid_and_comfort_for_the_enemy" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Aid and Comfort for the Enemy</U></A>: Palestinian made their bed by voting for Hamas. Let them lay in it. (568)</div> <div> <A HREF="#debating_the_future_of_america" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Debating the Future of America</U></A>: Unckecked illegal immigration will undermine our unique American culture. (793)</div> <div> <A HREF="#a_taxing_experience_for_everyone" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">A Taxing Experience for Everyone</U></A>: We should reform, or abolish, the current income tax system. (859)</div> <div> <A HREF="#which_iran_is_the_better_iran_" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Which Iran is the Better Iran?</U></A>: A nuclear Iran may be the wake-up call America needs. (975)</div> <div> <A HREF="#citizen_protect_your_self" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Citizen, Protect Your Self</U></A>: Freedom means the ability to protect life, property, and liberty. (674)</div> <div> <A HREF="#no_room_for_principles" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">No Room for Principles</U></A>: Taking the "higher ground" means abandoning morality for the NAACP. (566)</div> <div> <A HREF="#it_must_be_a_black_liberal_thing" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">It Must be a Black Liberal Thing</U></A>: Rep. Cynthia McKinney's confrontation indicative of her elitist liberal attitude. (817)</div> <div> <A HREF="#pamela_s_seal_of_disapproval" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Pamela's Seal of Disapproval</U></A>: Pamela Anderson is the dupe du`jour of the animal rights movement.</div> <div> <A HREF="#a_hot_wind_from_the_desert" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">A Hot Wind from the Desert</U></A>: Iran's recent weapon announcements are more bluff than bluster.</div> <div> <A HREF="#private_property_gets_stung_again" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Private Property Gets Stung Again</U></A>: Good intentions do not trump property rights.</div> <div> <A HREF="#dying_for_an_abortion" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Dying for an Abortion</U></A>: Deaths related to the abortion pill expose hypocrisy among the "pro-choice" and "women's health" activist groups.</div> <div> <A HREF="#coming_to_america" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Coming to America</U></A>: Immigrants should adopt our culture and learn our language if they want the benefits of becoming an American.</div> <div> <A HREF="#the_flintstones_were_real" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">The Flintstones were Real</U></A>: Political agendas drive the global warming-environmental disaster doomsayers.</div> <div> <A HREF="#many_will_come_in_my_name" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Many Will Come in My Name</U></A>: Christiand Peacemaker Team organization is more about taking sides than about promoting peace.</div> <div> <A HREF="#just_take_a_pill" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Just Take a Pill</U></A>: Ritalin and its sisters have become the cure for the common child.</div> <div> <A HREF="#adding_preparation_to_prep_school" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Adding Preparation to Prep School</U></A>: Florida's pending law should boost student performance. (634)</div> <div> <A HREF="#separating_church_from_state" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Separating Church from State</U></A>: Trial of Afghan Christian highlights ACLU foolishness here in the U.S. (667)</div> <div> <A HREF="#america_is_always_wrong" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">America is Always Wrong</U></A>: "Peace activists" ignore other opportunities to march against wars. (635)</div> <div> <A HREF="#revelation_from_iran" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Revelation from Iran</U></A>: Iran's stated purpose is the destruction of America. (705)</div> <div> <A HREF="#the_sin_of_omission" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">The Sin of Omission</U></A>: NC Governor distorts the truth about 300K land sale.</div> <div> <A HREF="#hooked_on_silliness" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Hooked on Silliness</U></A> : fish aren't as smart as PETA thinks.</div> <div> <A HREF="#time_to_get_even" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Time to Get Even</U></A> : Feingold's censure proposal is pure politics at its worst.</div> <div> <A HREF="#where_will_you_be_at_65_" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Where Will You be at 65?</U></A> : Americans are living longer, healthier, wealthier lives.</div> <div> <A HREF="#a_mythical_act_means_a_mythical_war" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">A Mythical Act Means a Mythical War</U></A> : SUV attack at UNC was an act of Islamic terrorism.</div> <div> <A HREF="#government_feeds_it_s_self" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Government Feeds It's Self</U></A> : food stamp program indicates how gov't grows.</div> <div> <A HREF="#another_bureaucratic_hook" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Another Bureaucratic Hook</U></A> : a dumb law can destroy freedom.</div> <div> <A HREF="#wisdom_of_the_solomon_amendment" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Wisdom of the Solomon Amendment</U></A> : accepting federal funding = accepting federal mandates.</div> <div> <A HREF="#affiliation_not_required" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Affiliation Not Required</U></A> : Christians and Muslims have some similarities, and some glaring differences.</div> <div> <A HREF="#time_to_step_up" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Time to Step Up</U></A> : current violence in Iraq may actually be a step forward.</div> <div> <A HREF="#the_discipline_demarcation_line" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">The Discipline Demarcation Line</U></A>: The profit and loss in school discipline.</div> <div> <A HREF="#dissecting_a_nut" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Dissecting a Nut</U></A>: Colorado high school "educator" teaches Marxist indoctrination.</div> <div> <A HREF="#the_blind_shall_lead_us" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">The Blind Shall Lead Us</U></A>: Lobby reform threatens our influence on government.</div> <div> <A HREF="#the_bell_tolls_for_roe_v__wade" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">The Bell Tolls for Roe v. Wade</U></A>: abortion demand is on its way out.</div> <div> <A HREF="#black_tuesdays" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Black Tuesdays</U></A>: liberal whining about the 2000 and 2004 elections.</div> <div> <A HREF="#one_drop_in_a_big_bucket" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">One Drop in a Big Bucket</U></A>: 300,000 acre government land sale is a dot on a big map.</div> <div> <A HREF="#ethics_by_ideology_only" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Ethics by Ideology Only</U></A>: medical ethics, lawyers, and capital punishment.</div> <div> <A HREF="#congress_is_out_on_strikes" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="Symb075c00b700dc00000000.png" HEIGHT="15" WIDTH="24" ALIGN="bottom" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0">Congress is Out on Strikes</U></A>: Congress again oversteps its authority by meddling in Major League Baseball's steroid issue. </div> <div> <A HREF="id171_m.htm" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U>Back to Top</U></A></div> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div>  <A NAME="there_s_only_one_way_to_deal_with_bugs"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><FONT SIZE="4" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >There's only one way to deal with bugs</FONT></div> <div> December 29, 2006</div> <bR> <div> Let's suppose there are insects in your home. Really, there is very little supposition involved. Most of us have experienced an invasion of termites, ants, flies, or some form of bug. It's an aggravating experience. Now, what do you do about it?</div> <div> The first step is to reach out to the insects. Establishing a dialogue is vital to solving the situation. You must communicate with them; find out what you did to incite their invasive anger. Only then can you correct your errant ways. Once they realize that you are reaching out and mean them no harm, their animosity toward you will wane. They may even halt their incursion altogether.</div> <div> What if talks are unproductive? What if the process is slow and the results are inconclusive or unsatisfying to the involved parties, both you and the insects? There is another way.</div> <div> Incentives are a workable alternative. You can provide what the insects want, and what they want will be evident by what they do and where they go. If the problem is termites, your home's framing will suffice. Just let them eat it. For fly or ants, put sugar or honey in the cabinets, on the countertops, and on the floor. You can reach out to them in this way.</div> <div> Your willingness to feed the invaders will demonstrate your goodwill toward them. How can they continue their attacks once they are confronted with your generosity? By your benevolence the antagonists will know that you aren't their enemy. It is likely they will be overcome by shame for having invaded your home and will withdraw immediately. The insects will leave you alone.</div> <div> “Mister,” you say, “You've lost your mind.” Well, then how do you deal with the insect problem?</div> <div> Most of you will see but one usable action… the bugs must be killed. You'll swat. You'll stomp. You'll bait, spray, and fog. You'll do whatever is needed to get rid of the bugs, even if it means killing every last one of them and destroying their homes. If this is a workable solution for bugs, why can't it work for jihadists?</div> <div> Most of you recognized where this was going before now. Perhaps some didn't. Either way, the predictable response is that jihadists aren`t bugs but human beings. Granted, but in a generic sense only.</div> <div> Humans do not target civilians without provocation merely for the cause of spreading fear. Furthermore, talking with irrational people produces very little in the way of positive results. We have talked, compromised, and negotiated with militant organizations before and what do we have to show for it? Hezbollah is the perfect example.</div> <div> Last summer they crossed Israel's border, much like bugs invade your home, and captured two soldiers. Very little was said. When Israel retaliated the “world” jumped to the microphones to proclaim its condemnation. Israel bowed to the pressure, stopped spraying the bugs, and the area was re-infested.</div> <div> Hezbollah has since staged protests intended to force Lebanon's government from office. They took to the streets of Beirut to demand -at the very least- increased power and greater influence over Lebanon's politics. Could their success mean anything other than increased influence for Iran and Syria? Is the situation not similar with other groups of self-proclaimed “holy warriors?”</div> <div> If Lebanon's somewhat pro-West government falls it will be due in large part to the West's timid approach to militant Muslims. We are too fearful of offending our enemies and we are paying a price. Perhaps a new approach is in order. Maybe it's time we deal with jihadists the same way we deal with other insects.</div> <div> <A HREF="id171_m.htm" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U>Back to Top</U></A></div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div>  <A NAME="a_few_questions_and_thoughts_about"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><FONT SIZE="4" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >A few questions and thoughts about recent events</FONT></div> <div> December 26, 2006</div> <bR> <div> Iran and Syria are known to provide weapons and support to our enemies in Iraq. It's also known that many foreign fighters arrived in Iraq across their borders. Even in the face of these circumstances there are people who insist that we involve these nations in stopping the violence in Iraq. How is that different from asking Nazi Germany to help stop the violence in France during World War Two?</div> <div> Pundits point to the 14<FONT SIZE="1" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >th</FONT> Amendment to support automatic citizenship for children born to illegal aliens while on U.S. soil. Suppose a soldier from an invading army fathered a child with a woman of a foreign country while on U.S. soil. Would that child be considered a citizen since it was born in America? If citizenship is denied due to the parent's illegal presence, shouldn't it also be denied to children of aliens whose presence is just as illegal?</div> <div> If Sen. John McCain (R-AZ) were a pirate, Sen. Lindsay Graham (R-SC) would be sitting on his left shoulder.</div> <div> Congratulations to me! I have been selected Time Magazine “Person of the Year” for creating internet content. Of course, this “honor” applies to everyone -all untold millions of you- that created web content this year. Time's spokesman explained the decision by pointing out that selecting an individual meant having to justify the decision. But selecting millions of people meant no justification was required. Typical liberalism. No one's feelings are hurt, no one is left out, and no thought is needed. Somehow, my award seems hollow when viewed from that perspective.</div> <div> An old Porky Pig cartoon depicted a Rosie the Riveter-type character saying, “You want those Nazis and Japs bombed off the face of the earth, don't ya'?” That archaic attitude produced victory in WWII. Today, we are enlightened enough to charge our soldiers with murder.</div> <div> Judges are considered highly intelligent people. But how intelligent is it to conclude that the Constitution prohibits capital punishment for murderers but protects the aborting of innocent babies?</div> <div> Will someone explain why it's intolerant to refuse dialogue with Islamic jihadists whose sworn goal is our destruction?</div> <div> As long as humankind survives there will be people who choose evil over good. As such, there will be people who choose violence over peace. As long as the good and peaceful people do nothing, the evil and violent people will rule. That's the reason “we can't all just get along.”</div> <div> A 4-year-old Texas student was cited for sexual harassment when he snuggled a female teacher's chest while hugging her. The offense was later changed to “inappropriate physical contact”. It seems to me that any teacher who would interpret a 4-year-old's hug as a sexual encounter is the person we need to keep an eye on.</div> <div> The Council of Islamic Court's security chairman, Sheik Yusuf Indahaadde, said, “Muslims are brothers and help each other.” We in Western Civilization fight among our selves.</div> <div> Rape charges against three Duke Lacrosse players were dropped when the accuser told investigators that she is no longer certain whether she was raped in the alleged incident. Kidnapping and sex offence charges remain. But how can those charges be credible when the accuser doesn't even know whether or not she was raped?</div> <div> President Bush has received criticism for not increasing the active duty strength of our armed forces, something he likely should have done before now. But when you look at charts depicting troop levels you find that the decline began in the early 1990s and leveled off around 2000. Who was president during those years, and why was he not criticized for depleting our active duty numbers?</div> <div> Sen. Ted Kennedy may be the most shameless politician in American history. “Minimum wage workers have waited almost 10 long years for an increase,” lamented the Democratic Senator. How stupid does he think we are? Does anyone seriously believe that a worker who took a minimum wage job nearly ten years ago has remained at that job waiting on the government to increase the wage? </div> <div> Tara Connor's underage drinking and alleged romps hit the headlines like the bombing of Pearl Harbor. I wonder what percentage of the population would have recognized Tara Connor's name or knew that she was Miss USA before the revelations? For my part, I didn't even know there was a Miss USA.</div> <div> <A HREF="id171_m.htm" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U>Back to Top</U></A></div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div>  <A NAME="what_was_it_like_on_the_outskirts_of"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><FONT SIZE="4" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >What was it like on the outskirts of Bethlehem?</FONT></div> <div> December 22, 2006</div> <bR> <div> Modern living has provided us with so many conveniences. Before us is an endless buffet of entertainment, distraction and diversion. Shopping centers and malls are everywhere, each surrounded by a cadre of restaurants. We attend this club meeting, rush to that kid's practice, then to the covered dish supper at the church.</div> <div> Satellite television provides hundreds of crystal clear channels, although just a few are fit to watch. Movies, music, and information are instantly accessible via the Internet. A world of information and entertainment is only a mouse click away.</div> <div> This is a different world in which we live. And what change there has been in the last forty years alone.</div> <div> When I was a boy, going to a restaurant meant a trip to the fish camp. There were no family steakhouses at that time. And there certainly wasn't a restaurant at every corner of the mall parking lot. In fact, there wasn't even a mall.</div> <div> The Internet was a military secret. Television stations were few, and color sets weren't the norm. I saw Neill Armstrong become the first man to set foot on the moon… and I saw it in black and white. I think we could tune in two channels at the time.</div> <div> Just as today's world is far ahead of then, so was then advanced over the previous generation.</div> <div> Television itself was rare. Most people received their entertainment from the radio voices of Amos and Andy and Jack Benny, or they read books and magazines. It's only a short jump from there to the 19<FONT SIZE="1" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >th</FONT> Century, where horses were the main source of transportation. Just think, less than 100 years from the heyday of the buckboard man walked on the surface of the moon.</div> <div> Now, you may be saying, “This is all well and good. But it has nothing to do with Bethlehem.” Perhaps that's true in a direct sense. But I wonder if we, with all the advancements of modern living, can imagine what the primitive shepherds of Luke's Gospel saw unfold before their eyes. The thought came to me as I read the Christmas Story for the umpteenth time, not that you can read it enough.</div> <div> Some translations place the shepherds “in the same country”; others say they were “in the fields nearby.” Either way it is evident that they were on the outskirts of Bethlehem. Yet, it wouldn't be similar to our being on the outskirts of a nearby town today. There would be no radiant glow of the city lights reflecting against the night sky. There would be a darkness that most of us can't appreciate.</div> <div> Perhaps they had kindled a small campfire and a torch or two. But they wouldn't have been very close to that light for it would have compromised their night vision, making it difficult to spot thieves or predators. And wasn't that the reason they were there? The only prevailing light came from the stars and the moon.</div> <div> No distant train whistle pierces the night. No car horns honk and no jets pass overhead. There are no blaring stereos, no blinding televisions, and no ringing cell phones. The only sound of this “Silent Night” would have been their conversation and the bleating of the sheep. They are all alone.</div> <div> Suddenly, there appeared from nowhere a figure whose presence illuminates the night sky with the glory of God. The angel makes a startling proclamation and is joined by a multitude of heavenly beings. Try to imagine how these men, so unaccustomed to brilliant displays, would have reacted.</div> <div> With the rapid societal transformations and technological advancements we know today it can be difficult, if not impossible, to relate to the lives of those shepherds. When we consider black and white television archaic, it's unlikely we appreciate the gravity of what they witnessed on the outskirts of Bethlehem.</div> <div> It's easy to sit in front of the fire, open the presents, and discuss the wonderful experience of the Bethlehem shepherds. But with our lives so accustomed to sound, light, and distraction, I wonder how many of us truly consider the frightening power and majesty displayed that long ago night? I wonder if we can consider it at all.</div> <div> <A HREF="id171_m.htm" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U>Back to Top</U></A></div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div>  <A NAME="feminists_find_fault_in_the__perfect_"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><FONT SIZE="4" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >Feminists find fault in the “perfect” female</FONT></div> <div> December 18, 2006</div> <bR> <div> It is time we recognize a successful woman and refute some of her detractors. This woman is multi-talented and has achieved great personal success. She is well-dressed, stylish, and attractive. She has survived the pitfalls of the competitive marketplace. Today, following several down years, she is back on top.</div> <div> You would think this woman would be the idol of the feminist. Yet nothing could be farther from the truth. Despite the fact that this woman succeeded on her terms, without assistance from a man, she has earned only scorn from the feminine left.</div> <div> This woman is blamed for every bane of the feminist movement from cosmetic surgery to anorexia. Despite these critics, this 47-year-old is in demand.  But you shouldn't expect feminists to welcome Barbie's resurgence with open arms.</div> <div> In her most recent work, noted feminist playwright Eve Ensler expressed the hope that “… we will all refuse to be Barbie.” The National Organization of Women website sells a “This is what Barbie ought to look like” t-shirt. It is modeled by two women in obvious need of a gift certificate to Jenny Craig.</div> <div> Feminists blame Barbie for fostering an unattainable, dangerous image that promotes teenage anorexia, all in pursuit of Barbie's “perfect” figure. But these activists are promoting an equally dangerous concept to young girls with the idea that being overweight is normal, natural, and wholesome.</div> <div> Let's not discount the dangers of anorexia and bulimia, the two best known eating disorders. Both problems can cause physical harm to the body. Some people literally starve to death pursuing this unrealistic, unhealthy and unattractive “thin”. One percent of female adolescents are anorexic and four percent of college-aged women are bulimic. That's lamentable, but not comparable to the flip side.</div> <div> Thirty-one percent of teen girls are overweight. Fifteen percent of girls under age 11 are clinically obese. That's four times the amount in 1974. The obesity numbers for teenage girls is similar. And being overweight carries its own set of health problems.</div> <div> According to the Centers for Disease Control, overweight and obese individuals are at increased risk for hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. The risk of breast cancer is also increased. These health problems are more widespread, if not as immediate, as those posed by anorexia. And obesity is far more prevalent among girls and young women than self-starvation. By encouraging adolescents to become comfortable with weight problems feminists are far worse influences than Barbie.</div> <div> We need not accept that a little girl playing make-believe with a doll will fuel feelings of inadequacy. No, women won't naturally attain the measurements of a real-life Barbie. But the doll can have a positive influence on kids, if handled properly by parents.</div> <div> There is a middle ground between anorexia and obesity. Why isn't it proper to encourage girls to present their best appearance, whatever it may be? Why not encourage them to be well-dressed and to pursue success? Adults constantly use the best examples to inspire greatness in their children.</div> <div> Not every Little Leaguer will grow up to be Albert Pujols. Not every Pop Warner quarterback will be Payton Manning. Yet we use their good qualities to inspire young athletes to give their best effort. Obviously these are real people and Barbie is a toy. But that doesn't make her the devil in blonde hair and high heels. In fact, being a toy she is of less influence than the real life people young women are exposed to.</div> <div> Largely, this is a matter of common sense. No parent with half a brain would teach their young daughter that they must become Barbie to live a worthwhile life. But if Barbie is the “perfect” woman, in terms of success and appearance, then why not use that perfection as inspiration?</div> <div> Yes, perfection is an unattainable goal. But its pursuit can propel us to levels of achievement and accomplishment never thought possible. When a person sets their sights on mediocrity they shouldn't be surprised when their achievements are average at best.</div> <div> Here is an undisputable fact: Barbie isn't real life. There are, however, many real-life people influencing girls and teenagers these days. On one hand we have Paris Hilton, Britney Spears, and Madonna. On the other are the “I'd rather be a man” feminists. Seems we'd be better off with a world full of Barbies.</div> <div> <A HREF="id171_m.htm" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U>Back to Top</U></A></div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div>  <A NAME="will_the_blame_game_debut_alongside_ps3_"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><FONT SIZE="4" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >Will the blame game debut alongside PS3?</FONT></div> <div> December 13, 2006</div> <bR> <div> Video games can have detrimental effects on children and I'm not shy about saying it. The near virtual world of today's advanced gaming systems produces kids far lazier than those of yesteryear. They become addicted to the instant entertainment and artificial stimulation available on the television screen. Imagination deteriorates and attention spans shorten.</div> <div> Is it mere coincidence that the advancement of video games follows the same timeframe as the “epidemic” of ADD and ADHD? Of course, these assertions are merely anecdotal. But the foolish displays surrounding PlayStation 3's debut were anything but anecdotal. From sea to shining sea customers pushed, shoved, and fought for access to the newest artificial reality.</div> <div> In Manchester, CT, a group of five thugs beat and robbed a new PS3 owner as he left a mall. Authorities closed a Palmdale, CA, Wal-mart when customers became overzealous, to put it mildly, in their pursuit of the PS3.</div> <div> The heartland wasn't immune to such idiocy. A Wisconsin man was racing 50 other customers for a preferred spot outside a store. He was injured when he ran into a pole. You know, maybe there is a link between video games and dwindling attention spans. And in Kentucky four people were shot with BB guns while waiting in line to buy the PlayStation.</div> <div> The worst example comes from Putnam, CT, where Michael Penkala found him self on the business end of a shotgun. He was shot in the chest and robbed of $2500 while waiting in line outside a Wal-mart. Three men were arrested and face multiple charges ranging from threatening to attempted murder. Now we need someone to blame.</div> <div> It's fashionable to blame Wal-Mart for everything. Why not begin with the world`s largest retailer? Perhaps Best Buy and the shopping malls are the culprits. They should have provided better security to the stooges camped on their sidewalks. And what about Sony? Did they not create the hysteria when they went to market with a product that was under produced?</div> <div> Maybe we can blame the buyers. Is it logical to blame the people who were stupid enough to camp outside stores to buy a video game? If the purchasers were buying for their own use I somewhat agree. It's likely that the PS3 will be readily available in a month or so, and at a lower price.</div> <div> What of customers who were buying the units to resell? Can we blame them? Maybe, but they have a plausible excuse for camping in front of stores. They were trading their time for an in-demand product with the expectation of turning a profit. That is the spirit of capitalism. And capitalism is the economic system of our country, at least until Nancy Pelosi takes charge.</div> <div> There is blame for a system that isn't truly serious about crime. Although the Connecticut judge who arraigned William Robertson -one of the Putnam suspects- called him a “threat to the public”, Robertson had just been placed on probation November 22<FONT SIZE="1" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >nd</FONT> on burglary-related charges.</div> <div> Another area for blame is a quasi taboo on self-defense. When concealed weapons legislation began its sweep through the states it was met with hysterical warnings of a return to the Old West. The same can be said about the current “castle doctrine” law in Florida, which recognizes a person's right to self-defense in lieu of retreat from criminal activity.</div> <div> What if the people who were beaten or shot had been armed? They would not have been such easy marks for their attackers. Of course, this position will surely incite claims that arms would have led to violence among frustrated customers outside the stores. But we had that anyway and it was the criminal element that benefited.</div> <div> I place the blame on the people who committed the acts, whether mere irresponsibility as in California, or the criminal behavior in Connecticut. Let's blame the “I want it and I have a right to get it” attitude that allows people to justify any act that serves their desired end.</div> <div> You're free to accept or reject any or all of these possibilities. But there is one requirement of civil society that cannot be denied. We would all benefit from a more mature, respectful, and responsible population. Those virtues proved to be in shorter supply than the PS3.</div> <div> <A HREF="id171_m.htm" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U>Back to Top</U></A></div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div>  <A NAME="a_merry_christmas_to_all__with_no"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><FONT SIZE="4" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >A Merry Christmas to all… with no apologies</FONT></div> <div> December 12, 2006</div> <bR> <div> Each year Christmas becomes more “PC” than the year before. Seattle's airport is this year's nominee for the gutless wonders of December. Twenty-five years of displaying Christmas trees at airport entrances came to a halt in one night. According to airport spokeswoman Terri-Ann Betancourt the trees were removed “because we didn't want to be exclusive.”</div> <div> Rabbi Elazar Bogomilsky sparked the impromptu tree-trimming. The Rabbi threatened to sue the airport authority if a Jewish menorah wasn't added to the tree display. But even Bogomilsky seemed surprised when the Christmas trees were removed.</div> <div> Menorahs and Christmas trees are fundamentally different. Menorahs are undeniably religious while the origin of Christmas trees is as wide as the kinds of trees used. In fact, the religious meaning of Christmas trees is debated even in Christianity.</div> <div>  Ancient Romans decorated trees with strips of metal during a festival honoring Saturnus, their god of agriculture. Is the Christmas tree based on this pagan celebration? Perhaps our version of Christmas trees dates to 16<FONT SIZE="1" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >th</FONT> Century Germany, where a small fir tree was decorated with apples, nuts, and the like. Children received those goodies on December 25<FONT SIZE="1" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >th</FONT>. Or could the Feast of Adam and Eve, where the “original sin” was reenacted on December 24<FONT SIZE="1" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >th</FONT>, be the source for our tree? An evergreen, hung with apples, was used as a prop for the play.</div> <div> No matter; Christmas in America has become a season of offense more so than a time of joy. Remember last years flap over “holiday trees” and official policies governing what greeting a retail cashier could offer? Those instances, like the one in Seattle, indicate that political correctness and “sensitivity” have run amok.</div> <div> Are people offended by Christmas greetings, or are they seeking a reason to be offended? In this world of war and misery you have to wonder why expressions of hope and happiness offend. Perhaps a person consumed with their own despair cannot suffer someone who isn't defeated by life. Maybe the joy in the expression and message of Merry Christmas reminds them of the emptiness in their souls.</div> <div> Let's put this in perspective. If a Jewish man were to offer me a greeting of Happy Hanukkah I would accept his wishes in the spirit they were offered. I would not become mortally offended and allow the good wishes to be overshadowed because the greeting reflected a holiday not of my own faith.</div> <div> The proper response should be to thank the man for his good wishes and respond with a cheerful Merry Christmas. If he is sincere in his expression to me he will accept my greeting without reservation.</div> <div> People are now too sensitive for courtesy, and that vulnerability is magnified at Christmas. Such attitudes have led businesses, trying not to offend clients and customers, to extend the "happy holidays" greeting. It's a shame that the term Merry Christmas is succumbing to the tide of political correctness and multiculturalism.</div> <div> America has a Christian heritage whether anyone believes it or not. As such we are entirely within the realm of good taste and etiquette to wish someone a Merry Christmas even if that person is of another faith or no faith at all.</div> <div> This said I will wish each and every reader a safe and Merry Christmas. This greeting is extended without apology to the Christian, the Jew, the Muslim, the Hindu, the Sikh, the Buddhist, the Wiccan, the agnostic, the atheist, the environmentalist, and whoever else happens to be out there. If you are a rational person you will graciously accept these good wishes in the spirit they are offered.</div> <div> However, there are some people bound to take offense. With this being a season for peace I shouldn't openly offend them. If you resent my wishes and are offended by Merry Christmas, then I rescind that greeting. Have a Wretched Christmas if you like, and toss is a Dismal New Year.</div> <div> <A HREF="id171_m.htm" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U>Back to Top</U></A></div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div>  <A NAME="animal_activist_s_present_dismal"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><FONT SIZE="4" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >Animal activist's present dismal argument on bear hunting</FONT></div> <div> December 6, 2006</div> <bR> <div> Animal rights activists will stop at nothing to prevent animals from being treated like, well, animals. Their reaction to a bear hunting season in a portion of Virginia's Great Dismal Swamp Wildlife Refuge is a perfect example.</div> <div> In Defense of Animals (IDA), People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) and the Animal Welfare Institute (AWI) joined forces to stop the hunt. They accused refuge management teams of severely miscalculating the bear population. AWI biologist D.J. Schubert was especially critical saying, "The foundation for the hunt is extraordinarily fragile," But the bear population in the refuge is between 275 and 350 animals. And the possibility of a hunt has been studied since the late 1990s.</div> <div> The hunt itself was well-regulated. According to Fish and Wildlife Service rules the hunt could last only two days. Only 100 permits were issued and only twenty bears could be taken. Furthermore, there were stringent guidelines covering who could enter the hunting area and by what means.</div> <div> None of these rules stopped animal rights groups from their demagoguery. In Defense of Animals claimed, “Only after 20 black bears are reported dead will an order be made to stop hunting.” This statement is patently false. Had the first day's hunt produced more than ten kills a reevaluation was specified that could've cancel the season's second day. So, hunters would not be sitting in stands with machineguns until 20 bears were mowed down like last spring's hay, as animal activists would have you believe.</div> <div> It is true that bear hunting on the refuge is a unique occurrence. But bear hunting in Virginia is far from extraordinary. Hunters tagged 23 bears on private land bordering the refuge last year, and 1440 statewide. The foundation for the Dismal Swamp hunt doesn't seem so “fragile” now. But that's not enough to satisfy animal rights activist D.J. Schubert.</div> <div> Since Mr. Schubert is a biologist we can grant his intelligence. But intelligence does not preclude partiality, and Mr. Schubert has proven his biases before.</div> <div> Schubert has worked with animal rights organizations to curb the use of snowmobiles in national parks and referred to Montana's first bison hunt in 15 years as “blatant animal cruelty”. Admittedly I grind the axe of hunting on the side of support. But Mr. Schubert is grinding that same axe just as hard on the other side.</div> <div> The fact is that while animal activists preen and crow about saving wildlife and habitat it is sportsmen who do something about it. The Pittman-Robertson Act took effect in 1938. This law levies a federal tax on firearms, ammunition, and archery supplies. In other words, the tax is paid by hunters or people generally sympathetic to the sport. The revenue generated -over $3.4 billion since its inception- protects, restores, and improves wildlife habitat for both game and non-game species.  </div> <div> What's more, hunters and hunting organizations support Pittman-Robertson. Thus, while activists boast about supporting animal welfare it is hunters who actually promote the long-term survivability of wildlife. But facts will not deter the animal rights proponent from spewing nonsense.</div> <div> Kristie Phelps of IDA said of the bear season, “The only reason to allow the slaughter is to appease a small minority who take pride and pleasure in killing defenseless animals, and it's just not right.”</div> <div> Miss Phelps' ignorance of why people hunt is exceeded only by her ignorance of bears. I suggest she corner a black bear and discover just how “defenseless” these critters are. As to the “pride and pleasure in killing”, remember that 100 permits were issued but only 20 bears could be taken. Thus, 80-percent of hunters entered the Dismal Swamp knowing they would emerge empty-handed. Furthermore, the “slaughter” ended December 2 without a single bear being killed. So much for the fallacious notion that successful hunting is as simple as walking through the woods.</div> <div> Which would an animal appreciate more: elitist rhetoric spewed by animal rights organizations, or nearly 40-million acres of habitat preserved by sportsman? Ultimately, hunters put their money where the animal activist's mouth is.</div> <div> <A HREF="id171_m.htm" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U>Back to Top</U></A></div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div>  <A NAME="_lactivists__expose_more_than_their"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A>“Lactivists” expose more than their breasts</div> <div> November 29, 2006</div> <bR> <div> Who would think that the simple act of nursing a child could cause a stir? Untold billions of babies and mothers have performed this act since the inception of humanity. Why did it recently become big news?</div> <div> The responsibility belongs, in part, to Emily Gillette. She was removed from a Freedom Airlines flight for nursing her baby on the plane. It wasn't long before a “lactivist nurse-in” -activist mothers participating in a staged public breastfeeding event- was organized at the Burlington, VT airport. Among the participants was Chelsea Clark, smartly attired in her “Got breast milk?” t-shirt. Clark said of the staged protest, “It's about raising consciousness about our culture's sexualization of the breast.” Oh, really? Let's see.</div> <div> Available for purchase at this very moment on a “lactivist” website is a sweatshirt for husbands of nursing mothers. It reads, “I play with my baby's food.” The implication is obvious. Now, what was that about the “sexualization of the breast?”</div> <div> Of course, once an activist begins to crow about “raising consciousness” nothing else on the face of the earth matters. Not facts, not evidence, not anything. But, just for fun, we'll address the subject anyway.</div> <div> The fact is that Emily Gillette wasn't removed from her flight for the act of breastfeeding but for not covering her breast. What's more, a flight attendant offered Mrs. Gillette a blanket so she could nurse inconspicuously. The offer was promptly refused.</div> <div> While this cause du jour recently gained widespread attention it is far from its -pardon the expression- infancy. The New York Times reported a similar protest in June, 2005. Approximately 200 “lactivists” staged a nurse-in at the corner of Columbus Avenue and West 67<FONT SIZE="1" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >th</FONT> Street. They were angry with Barbara Walters, who had voiced an opinion about public breastfeeding on ABC`s “The View” a few weeks earlier.</div> <div> Starbucks was the target in 2004. Lorig Charkoudian was asked to cover her breast while nursing her baby inside a Maryland Starbucks. Next thing you know Charkoudian is posting an activist website, petitioning Starbucks corporate office, and organizing public feedings.</div> <div> Am I detecting a hint of self-centeredness, or is it just another of my unreasonable intolerances?</div> <div> No doubt there are women readers now questioning my motives, since I obviously haven't nursed a baby. But the fact is I fully support breastfeeding. Mother's milk contains all the necessary vitamins and proteins for infant development. It is non-allergenic and protects infants against various diseases and infections, since the mother's antibodies are transferred through the milk. And it's believed to lessen the chances of future breast and ovarian cancers in women. There's no doubt that nursing is a natural and wise choice for feeding a baby.</div> <div> I was breast-fed, and my wife nursed our two children. But it was done discreetly, with respect to established social standards. Whatever happened to decorum? Perhaps it has become as antiquated as respect and responsibility.</div> <div> A mother knows when she'll be in a public place for an extended period and has several options for feeding her child. Breast pumps can be bought for under $40. Fill a few bottles and store them. Breast milk keeps up to 10 hours at 70 degrees and is easily warmed. It shouldn`t be too much of a burden for mom to find some warm tap water.</div> <div> Furthermore, it's doubtful people will have a problem with tactful public nursing. Why not use a blanket? Lactivists accurately describe nursing as an intimate act of mother and child. And doesn't intimacy demand a certain degree of privacy?</div> <div> As with most protesters, the nature of the protest causes the curious mind to question the motive behind it. In this case it is apparent that the activism itself outweighs all other factors. Nurse-ins aren't about nursing a child, for there are many ways to feed a baby in public without drawing attention to the activity.  The lactivist isn't as concerned with feeding the child as about calling attention to themselves via in-your-face activism. </div> <div> As for my part, I have no problem with a woman nursing her baby in public. It is far better than being confronted by a pack of teenagers with their pants around their knees. But I do have a problem with exploitation. Lactivist moms are exposing more than a breast or two; they are exposing a self-promoting agenda. It is the attitude behind their protests that dishonors the natural act of breastfeeding.</div> <div> <A HREF="id171_m.htm" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U>Back to Top</U></A></div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div>  <A NAME="confidence_performs_while_arrogance"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><FONT SIZE="4" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >Confidence performs while arrogance boasts</FONT></div> <div> November 23, 2006</div> <bR> <div> Everyone knows someone who is so sure of their abilities that they overcome every obstacle to success. But we often confuse that confidence with arrogance. Those two words, and the attitudes they represent, are as different as night and day.</div> <div> Confidence originates from the word “confidere”. The prefix “con” means to know how and is related to the word “can”, which means to be able. “Fidere” means “to trust”. So, confidence indicates knowing how or being able to trust. This ability is generally expressed as trusting in self or others to succeed or act reliably. Synonyms include self-assurance, belief, and certainty.</div> <div> From this brief review we learn that confidence is the power to believe that success is attainable and goals are reachable. Such a person also accounts for the possibility of negative results. Therefore, the confident person makes plans to overcome setbacks and failures. This attitude, combined with an attention to detail, is essential to success in any endeavor. What's more, a free society cannot function without confidence in one's own talents and in those of their neighbor.</div> <div> Perhaps confidence is best expressed, and perfected, in faith in our Creator. The Book of James says that one who wavers “is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed.” Confidence acts as an anchor against those waves. When we have faith in our talents we are driven to use them, and this reflects not only self-assurance but also faith in God, the provider of our abilities.</div> <div> It should be noted that confidence in God and self isn't expressed in loud, boisterous, or brash behavior. There is where arrogance begins.</div> <div> Arrogance comes from the Latin word “arrogantia” and means contemptuous pride and disregard for others. An arrogant person acts with an air of superiority towards those they consider inferior. This leads to reckless behavior and a lack of planning. They are blind to possible setbacks and assume all outcomes will be as perceived.</div> <div> Such an attitude is dangerous not only to the arrogant person but to anyone who may be affected by their decisions. Arrogance in practice leads a person to continue pursuit of a single direction despite evidence that the promised results aren't being achieved.</div> <div> I'm not raising this issue to introduce anyone to etymology or to enhance vocabulary. I simply intend to highlight the contrast between confidence and arrogance. There are two main ideologies vying for acceptance in our country. Confidence abounds in one movement and arrogance in the other.</div> <div> One philosophy is defined by a faith in people to succeed and accomplish. Adherents recognize their talents and their ability to reach their goals however lofty or modest they may be. But that's not all. This group understands that the same is true for each and every American regardless of their status, class, race, sex, or other contributing factor. They are constantly working to promote that attitude.</div> <div> The second group perceives their influence as essential for others to survive at all. They see people trapped by circumstance with neither ability nor opportunity to improve their situation. Therefore they, moved by their superior intellect, must guide these unwashed masses.</div> <div> They devise and implement programs to “help” people who lack their genius. Then, when those programs produce no results, they demand increased funding. So sure is this group of their rightness that they refuse to admit the failures of their ideas, even when those failures are demonstrable.</div> <div> Instead of changing course they prescribe more of the same. This requires them to convince other people that there is no opportunity for improvement without them. It is the ultimate condescending attitude and a perfect example of arrogance.</div> <div> Conservatism represents confidence, in self and in others. It recognizes the talents and worth of individuals, and their ability to achieve goals, far beyond the reach of the latest government program. It teaches that what lies inside of each American is stronger than any barrier, real or perceived, that lies in the way of accomplishment.</div> <div> Liberalism represents arrogance, expressed in condescending attitudes. It holds that success is unattainable without their guidance. It defines success for others instead of seeing each person's ability to define success on their own. But liberalism best exemplifies arrogance in its refusal to recognize the failures of its core programs to produce the promised results.</div> <div> Taking all matters into account it becomes obvious that liberal arrogance grows government and shrinks liberty. As such, it poses a grave threat to the core principles of our republic.</div> <div> <A HREF="id171_m.htm" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U>Back to Top</U></A></div> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div>  <A NAME="a_few_thoughts_on_the_election_and_its"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><FONT SIZE="4" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >A few thoughts on the election and its aftermath</FONT></div> <div> November 17, 2006</div> <bR> <div> The elections are over, in most districts at least, and the pollsters were proven correct. Democrats will control Congress for the next two years. It now seems appropriate to offer a few thoughts and observations on what happened.</div> <div> Democrats campaigned on a “new direction” for America. In the first 100 hours of control they pledge to “break the link between lobbyists and legislation”, enact the 9/11 commission's recommendations, raise the minimum wage, negotiate drug prices, and install a “pay as you go” system of federal spending.</div> <div> What will we have when we boil this political rhetoric to its basic element? We will find our ability to join with like-minded individuals to influence our representatives curtailed. We will negotiate with an enemy that openly desires our destruction. We will artificially inflate wages and socialize pharmaceuticals. And we will raise taxes, for we surely won`t consider reduced spending. Overall it sounds like the democrats old direction for America.</div> <div> Nancy Pelosi is an appropriate San Francisco liberal to serve as speaker of the House for the democrat controlled congress, especially since Timothy Leary, Andy Warhol, and Dr. Spock are dead and unavailable.</div> <div> People who believe the economy is stagnant, Bush lied, 9/11 was an inside job, and voted democrat are “open-minded” and “issue-oriented”. Conversely, conservatives disgruntled with the GOP's lack of overall direction but still happy with enough of their positions to vote republican “can't rise above party politics”.</div> <div> Rep. Pelosi's second act as speaker should be the completion of a course in capitalizing on momentum, since her first act -supporting Pennsylvania's John Murtha for majority leader- was such a resounding failure.</div> <div> While we're on the subject of John Murtha let's remember how democrats promised a transparent and ethical government. Rep. Murtha was investigated in the 1980 Abscam bribery sting and is considered a top player in the “you scratch my back, etc.” world of beltway politics. In other words, it will be business as usual.</div> <div> Before the election liberals were complaining about the new electronic voting machines, voter fraud, tampering, disenfranchisement, cheating, and other irregularities. It was the same thing we heard in 2000, 2002, and 2004. Then, as if by magic, we discovered that everything had worked just fine when the results came in.</div> <div> Pre-election polls indicated democratic victories in the mid-term election and a preference for a democratic president in 2008. The first part came true. If a democrat wins the White House, will conservatives threaten to leave the country like Hollywood liberals do when Republicans are elected?</div> <div> When Harold Ford, Jr. -a black democrat- lost the Tennessee Senate race to Republican Bob Corker -a white republican- Time magazine wrote, “if he were white, he would have won.” I could find no “mainstream media” charges of racism in Maryland where a black republican (Michael Steele) lost to a white democrat (Benjamin Cardin).</div> <div> While we're on the subject of Michael Steele, let's see how he's been treated on the campaign trail. When Steele announced his candidacy earlier this year, a popular liberal blogger depicted him as a minstrel and described him in racially stereotypical terms. In 2001, a Maryland Senator called Steele “an Uncle Tom.” And during a 2002 campaign debate, Steele opponents tossed Oreo cookies at him. This is worth remembering the next time democrats accuse republicans of racism and intolerance.</div> <div> Republicans lost largely because they abandoned their principles. They did little to control government growth, instituted new levels of bureaucracy, opened new entitlement spending, and ignored America's call to secure our borders until late in the campaign. They gave undecided voters little reason to vote for them. The result of those choices was apparent. The answer should be just as clear.</div> <div> No matter which side of the vote you were on there is one thing that is beyond debate. The Founding Fathers knew what they were doing. Americans exercised their ability to overthrow their government without firing a shot. In two years time we'll have the opportunity for peaceful revolution once again. That's something to be thankful for when you sit down to dinner tomorrow.</div> <div> <A HREF="id171_m.htm" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U>Back to Top</U></A></div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div>  <A NAME="the_basics_of_ignorance_stupidity_and"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><FONT SIZE="4" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >The basics of ignorance, stupidity, and liberalism</FONT></div> <div> November 14, 2006</div> <bR> <div> The words “ignorance” and “stupidity” are generally treated as synonyms in modern English. They are used to indicate similar mental conditions and capabilities. In reality, these words represent different concepts.</div> <div> “Ignorance” is defined as lacking knowledge or education; being unaware. “Stupidity” is lacking intelligence or perception. The use of a simple example brings this difference into stark contrast.</div> <div> An ignorant person is someone who doesn't know but can be taught. Suppose there is a man who doesn't know that two plus two equals four. If I place two oranges in his right hand and two more in his left I can prove to him that he holds four oranges. He is no longer ignorant of the sum total of two plus two. What's more, he can apply this to future scenarios. If he buys two oranges, then you come along and give him two apples, he'll understand that he now has four pieces of fruit.</div> <div> There is no shame in ignorance itself. Everyone is ignorant of something. I am ignorant of mixing the fuel that can propel a spacecraft to orbit. Conversely, even the most educated doctor, scientist, or engineer may be ignorant of how to change the oil in their car.</div> <div> Stupidity is a radically different condition, best articulated as a person who refuses to learn. If we distribute oranges to a stupid person as we did above, that person may deny the total is actually four. This individual may claim the total is three, or five, simply because they prefer it that way. They may even claim that the oranges aren't oranges at all, but pears or peaches.</div> <div> This illustration isn't as extreme as it may sound. The stupid person is rejecting an obvious conclusion. And being stupid is to deny a fact without offering a plausible alternative. Surely there are people with mental aptitudes that preclude learning. But for the most part stupidity is a chosen path and represents someone that simply refuses to accept absolute facts.</div> <div>  Conservatives are often the worst offenders when it comes to misusing both words. We often dismiss liberals as being ignorant or stupid. Neither situation is the case. Let's go back to the oranges.</div> <div> Liberals fully understand that two oranges plus two more will total four oranges; they just don't think it's fair. Liberals operate under the assumption that the two oranges they have plus the two you give them would've totaled six had the “greedy rich” not stolen two other oranges somewhere along the line. But don't worry; there's a progressive solution to this miscarriage of justice.</div> <div> The liberal will insist that their elected representative procure two oranges from the public orange fund to replace what they should've received. Then they will lobby the district attorney to prosecute the “greedy rich”, forcing the return of the two “stolen” oranges, which will be added to the two from the public orange fund and the four they originally had. So, in the liberal world of wealth redistribution, two plus two actually totals eight. This is fair.</div> <div> However, a word of caution is in order. When using this teaching tool you should carefully conceal your stash of oranges, for it may be larger than your neighbor`s stash. If a liberal notices this unfair condition they will call on you to “give something back” to the community. The “Equitable Citrus Distribution Tax Act” will be passed and your oranges be given to someone more deserving that you.</div> <div> Don't bother to complain. The fact that you harvested oranges while your “underprivileged” neighbor sat on his duff watching American Idol has nothing to do with your abundance or his shortfall. You have merely been the winner of life's orange lottery.</div> <div> So sit back and enjoy your oranges while you can. Don't be as ignorant or stupid as to think a liberal won't use the power of government to take them away from you.</div> <div> <A HREF="id171_m.htm" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U>Back to Top</U></A></div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div>  <A NAME="gop_defense_proves_to_be_a_bad_offense"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><FONT SIZE="4" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >GOP defense proves to be a bad offense</FONT></div> <div> November 9, 2006</div> <bR> <div> You win a few and you lose a few. On November 7 the Republican Party lost and lost hard. Now the GOP leadership must decide why it happened. Were they outflanked on the issues? Was the conservative agenda rejected? Perhaps the party strayed too far from the message that led to their ascension to power in 1994.</div> <div> Frankly, substance mattered little in this election. The Democratic strategy was to sing the “new direction” and “change” mantra without specifying what that directional change would be. Liberal Democratic leaders kept a low profile while more centrist candidates carried them to a majority. Now, Nancy Pelosi will chart the course of the 110<FONT SIZE="1" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >th</FONT> Congress. Did America turn out Republicans because they favor the Pelosi dream of San Francisco liberalism? It seems the GOP lost more so than the Democrats won.</div> <div> When Republicans took firm control of Congress in 2002 I wrote a column stating that the party faced two governing choices. First, they could go forward with the party's main theme of adherence to the Constitution and limited government, promoting the worth of individuals and free markets over the intrusion of government. Second, they could simply not rock the boat.</div> <div> Sadly, GOP leaders eventually chose option two. They largely abandoned the conservative ideas that produced their 1994 rise to power and governed as a light version of Democratic socialism. At the first sign of difficulty, adversity, or negative press the GOP abandoned its principles. </div> <div> They lacked the will to proceed with reform of Social Security and Medicare despite the looming deficiencies of both programs. They passed the buck on a subject that needs to be addressed. A future Congress will have to adopt radical reform in both programs, allow them to default, or increase taxes astronomically as a result.</div> <div> In direct contrast to the party platform of decreasing government entitlements the GOP gave birth to a federal prescription drug program. The projected cost began rising immediately and will continue ad infinitum. It will feed upon its own largess, just as do all government entitlements.</div> <div> Congressional leaders didn't expand upon previous welfare reform. Entitlement spending continued just as if it was authorized by the Constitution. The post-Katrina misery was testament to the helplessness entitlement programs instill in their recipients. People are robbed of their independence, their responsibility, and their freedom. But instead of pointing out the failures of the welfare state, Republican strategy was to prove they could outspend Democrats.</div> <div> The GOP Congress lacked the will to make earlier tax cuts permanent, much less pursue needed overhaul of the tax system. Despite rising energy prices and Middle East turmoil they could not find the courage to expand domestic oil exploration and production. And Senate Republicans folded meekly at the first hint of a Democratic filibuster.</div> <div> Sure, certain conservative objectives were reached. Two apparent conservative justices were seated on the Supreme Court and frivolous lawsuits against firearms makers were stopped. But by and large little was done to define the GOP as the sole outpost for individual liberty. Party leaders played the game not to lose and we see the result.</div> <div> To their credit the Democrats ran a campaign designed to capitalize on Republican timidity. They hid the liberalism of the party leadership. Pelosi, Reid, Kennedy, etc. were nowhere to be seen the final weeks of the campaign. They rode centrist candidates to victory.</div> <div> The one high-profile election highlighting the anti-war liberalism of the Democratic Party was in Connecticut. Ned Lamont had defeated pro-defense incumbent Joseph Lieberman in the Democratic primary. Yet this much-hailed darling of the “progressives” could not beat Lieberman in the general election.</div> <div> Joseph Lieberman is certainly not a conservative. But when unabashed liberalism can't carry the day in the liberal state of Connecticut it speaks well for future of conservatism. </div> <div> Even so, you have to tip your hat to Democrats for utilizing a successful version of the old bait and switch. But what happens when those moderate freshmen are confronted by the liberals who engineered their victories? They'll have no choice but to fall in line behind Nancy Pelosi and Harry Reid. What will their constituents think then? </div> <div> Liberal pundits claim that November 7<FONT SIZE="1" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >th</FONT> was a repudiation of conservatism. That's a false assertion. Republican leadership gave the voters no reliable conservative credentials to evaluate.</div> <div> Republican moderation was on trial this fall and it came up short. However, when the GOP has presented a conservative alternative to Democratic liberalism they have achieved electoral success. Shouldn't the lesson be obvious?</div> <div> <A HREF="id171_m.htm" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U>Back to Top</U></A></div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div>  <A NAME="kerry_suffers_recurrence_of_an_old"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><FONT SIZE="4" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >Kerry suffers recurrence of an old malady</FONT></div> <div> November 8, 2006</div> <bR> <div> If you are a Democratic leader, activist, or party loyalist, and you think John Kerry would make an excellent presidential nominee in 2008 you have only one path toward that end. Lock Sen. Kerry in a closet and keep him there until the election is over. If you let him speak publicly he will surely suffer a flare-up of chronic foot-in-mouth disease.</div> <div> Everyone is aware of Kerry's latest faux pas, but let's review anyway. Speaking to a group of California students Kerry said, “Education, if you make the most of it, you study hard, you do your homework and you make an effort to be smart, you can do well. And if you don't, you get stuck in Iraq.”</div> <div> Kerry was roundly condemned and offered something of an apology. He said he regretted that his words were “misinterpreted to imply anything negative” about the military. But it's hard to misinterpret what is stated in plain English. Sen. Kerry's statement wasn't as much a mistake as a Freudian slip, a case of foot-in-mouth disease.</div> <div> Kerry and his handlers quickly claimed that he had blown the punch line of a joke. He should have said, “you end up getting us stuck in a war in Iraq.” The intent was to portray President Bush as a dunce. Even if Mr. Kerry had delivered the joke correctly it cannot stand up under scrutiny. His foot is again in his mouth.</div> <div> Let's compare the academic achievements of Senator Kerry and President Bush. Bush holds a BA in history from Yale and a Masters in Business Administration from Harvard. Kerry owns a BA in political science from Yale and a law degree from Boston College. That's a wash, as both men hold multiple degrees. Let's compare their grades.</div> <div> Both men were similarly average students. In fact, Bush fared slightly better than Kerry. Kerry scored four “Ds” his freshman year at Yale. Bush had only one “D” in four years. Kerry's four-year grade average was 76. Bush's was 77. Consider also that John Kerry's Yale photo looks for all the world like Gomer Pyle and it's clear that he has no basis to question George Bush's intelligence.</div> <div> And this isn't John Kerry's first foray into the land of false witness.</div> <div> Since he became the '04 Democratic presidential nominee Kerry has made his news by criticizing the Iraq War. If you support his stance that Iraq is an unjust mistake you might consider his position before he won that nomination.</div> <div> On the floor of the US Senate in 2002 Kerry accused Hussein of breaking his cease-fire agreement from the Gulf War. He assessed Saddam's threat by wondering why the Iraqi dictator was pursuing weapons programs most nations had abandoned, including nuclear technology. He questioned why Iraq was seeking unmanned aircraft for delivering biological agents, why Iraq developed long range missiles, and why Iraq didn't account for their known stockpiles of banned weapons.</div> <div> Kerry lamented Hussein's disregard for the people he ruled, his history of murder and torture, and his previous use of WMDs. Kerry added, “We should not go to war because these things are in his past but we should be prepared to go to war because of what they tell us about the future.” It is clear that John Kerry believed Iraq threatened America and that pre-war intelligence was accurate. And this wasn't the only time he took such a position.</div> <div> During a 2003 speech at Georgetown University Sen. Kerry warned of the grievous threat posed by Saddam Hussein with weapons of mass destruction and said, “we need to disarm Saddam Hussein”. Of course, Kerry held these positions while voting “for the $87 billion before he voted against it”.</div> <div> John Kerry is a true politician; he speaks without thinking. His latest comment reveals what he and other “progressives” -like soon to be Speaker of the House, Nancy Pelosi- think of our military personnel. It also tells us that Kerry believes Americans lack the perception to notice that foot in his mouth.</div> <div> <A HREF="id171_m.htm" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U>Back to Top</U></A></div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div>  <A NAME="democrats_manipulate_poverty_for"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><FONT SIZE="4" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >Democrats manipulate poverty for electoral gains</FONT></div> <div> November 3, 2006</div> <bR> <div> I am a lifelong admirer of former UNC basketball coach Dean Smith. His sportsmanship, class, and winning attitude are nothing less than inspirational.</div> <div> Coach Smith retired with 879 career coaching victories, most all time. His winning percentage ranks eighth. He coached 30 teams that won more than 20 games in a season. His Tarheels made 23 consecutive NCAA tournament appearances.</div> <div> The championship banners hanging from the rafters of the arena that bears his name are impressive. Smith's teams won 17 regular season ACC championships, 13 ACC tournaments, reached 11 Final Fours and won national titles in 1982 and 1993. He was named ACC Coach of the Year eight times and National Coach of the Year four times. He led the United States team to a gold medal at the Montreal Olympics in 1976.</div> <div> Of far more importance than his on-court performance was his dedication to his player's education. Nearly 97-percent of his players finished their degrees. There is much to admire about Dean E. Smith. He is dedicated, innovative, and an apparently all-around fine man. But he could not be more wrong in a current political ad.</div> <div> Coach Smith has appeared in a series of newspaper ads representing Devout Democrats. Beside his familiar face appears the quote, "I'm a lifelong Baptist and vote for Democrats. One reason? Democrats are serious about alleviating poverty." I'm sure there are many faithful Democrats who sincerely have this desire. But they have adopted the wrong approach and there is ample historical evidence to prove that point.</div> <div> The truth is that government social and welfare programs do nothing to end poverty; they only deepen it for those who live there. The poverty rate in America was decreasing at a higher rate before Lyndon Johnson ushered in the welfare mentality via his "Great Society". </div> <div> According to government statistics quoted by the Cato Institute the overall poverty rate decreased from 32-percent in 1947 to 13.9-percent in 1965 to 10.3-percent in 1980. The overall poverty rate in 2005, according to the Census Bureau, was 10.8-percent. So, before the government began its program to "save" us from poverty, the poverty rate had decreased by 18 percentage points. Since then it has decreased by a mere 3.6 points. It seems the party "dedicated to alleviating poverty" has solidified poverty's hold on poor Americans.</div> <div> The fact is that the Democratic Party's "war on poverty" has done little to alleviate poverty and much to grow the federal budget. By 1980 we were spending four times the money on public housing, and eight-times the amount on food stamps and Medicare, than in 1965.</div> <div> This directly affected you, the taxpayer. Over that 15-year period the percentage of your personal income that was taken from you to fund poverty programs increased from 7.5 to nearly 14-percent. Total spending on anti-poverty programs is approaching $9 trillion with precious little to show for it. To put that number in perspective, you will have to become a millionaire 9 million times over to have that much money.</div> <div> I'm not here to question Coach Smith's -or any Devout Democrat's- faith. I'll not even question their personal desire to help the poor. But it seems apparent that they have taken the wrong approach. The idea of confiscating wealth from one American to benefit another is both unethical and immoral. After all, it is easy to be generous when spending someone else's money.</div> <div> It is my conclusion that the Democratic Party leadership isn't serious about alleviating poverty. Their goal is to stall economic progress and keep as many people on the dole as possible. The more people depend on government the more they will vote for politicians willing to use the power of government to steal from one American to benefit another.</div> <div> <A HREF="id171_m.htm" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U>Back to Top</U></A></div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div>  <A NAME="rough_seas_make_better_sailors"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><FONT SIZE="4" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >Rough seas make better sailors</FONT></div> <div> October 25, 2006</div> <bR> <div> It's easy to be upbeat and optimistic when times are good. As long as life goes according to plan our confidence flows like a river. But it is the down times that test our spirit. It is the reaction to adversity that determines who is fit for success or leadership. Let's look at this premise in terms of an old sailing ship.</div> <div> The captains of yesteryear's sailing ships had many responsibilities. They had to read the waves and tides then adjust accordingly. They had to gauge the winds and deploy the appropriate sails to maintain the desired course and speed. They navigated by the sun, moon, and stars, not with the aid of radar or GPS. Professionalism, knowledge, and confidence were prerequisites for commanding these ships, which were often manned by surly crewmembers.</div> <div> There were many captains who understood these concepts. They could pilot their vessels efficiently on calm seas with fair winds and clear skies. But what happened when the seas grew rough, the winds swirled, and the skies clouded? The fair weather captain may become confused, unsure, and disoriented. His confidence and optimism would soon erode. He would lose the trust and respect of his crew and may well lose his ship.</div> <div> There were other captains, seasoned and salty, who considered the fair day an exception to the rule. They prepared for the worst. They were ready for rough seas. They could read the fierce winds and navigate the starless sky. They were unflappable, exuding confidence and optimism in the face of the most dire conditions. They had weathered the storms before and emerged better prepared to face them in the future.</div> <div> Whose craft would you rather board? Which captain would you rather be? Most of us would rather sail with the second captain, the one who had faced the storms and formed the character and expertise that precedes success. Does it not make sense to want to emulate that captain as well?</div> <div> It was the storm that produced the leadership qualities we seek in the captain. The sailor who hasn't faced the storm is unsure of his abilities and may lack the qualities to survive trouble.</div> <div> Life's easy times produce no character or toughness. Just as any captain with a basic understanding of seamanship can pilot a vessel under ideal conditions, anyone with normal human intelligence can live optimistically when nothing goes wrong. It is difficulty that develops and hones our abilities. If we maintain our integrity in the tough times -like our salty captain- we become more capable and our confidence grows. We also project the trustworthiness and dependability that attracts opportunity.</div> <div> Now let's ask a series of questions. Which type of person would we rather do business with? Which one is most reliable? With whom would we rather make deals? Would we not chose the person who had weathered the storm, just as we chose the experienced captain? Of course we would.</div> <div> The ability to persevere when all seems lost is what prepares us for success and accomplishment. If we can navigate life's storms we can easily sail it's fair seas. Conversely, sailing the fair sea doesn't prepare us for the storms.</div> <div> So let us be thankful for both the fair and the rough seas. Life's easy moments allow us much-needed times of rest and relaxation. They give us time to reflect on what we have learned and to prepare for what we may face. Let us also be thankful and faithful in difficulty, anxiety, and turmoil, for these are the storms that groom us to capitalize on the clearing sky.</div> <div> <A HREF="id171_m.htm" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U>Back to Top</U></A></div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div>  <A NAME="a_moored_boat_can_t_rise_with_the_tide"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><FONT SIZE="4" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >A Moored Boat Can't Rise with the Tide</FONT></div> <div> October 12, 2006</div> <bR> <div> There were two men living as neighbors beside a small river. The river was only 5 or 6 feet deep and perhaps 20 feet wide. But, being big enough to navigate and house fish, each neighbor owned a boat.</div> <div> The river's small size left no room for a dock, and the steep banks made it impractical to remove the boats from the water after each use. These men solved their problem of boat security by chaining and locking their boats to trees along the riverbank. This worked quite well, and the boats rested at the water's edge.</div> <div> One day a weather report told of heavy rain upstream from where the two men lived. Both men immediately recognized that their valley would soon flood. When they looked out their windows the water was noticeably higher. They went to their boats.</div> <div> The first neighbor boarded his craft and unlocked the chain. As the water rose, his boat floated on the tide. He knew the possible dangers of riding the crest of the flood. But he also knew there was no other way out of the river valley in which he lived. To stay where he was could mean drowning. And there would be no one to blame but him.</div> <div> He piloted his boat the best he could and floated down the river.</div> <div> The second neighbor boarded his boat as well. But he feared where the floodwaters would take him. So, his boat remained chained to the tree, bobbing up and down as the rising water raced past him. What do you think happened when the waters reached a height greater than the length of his chain? If you said, "The boat was pulled under", take a gold star.</div> <div> The man and his boat sunk due to his stubborn refusal to adapt to the changing environment.</div> <div> By now you may be wondering who would be stupid enough to sit in a moored boat during a rising flood. Under such clearly dangerous circumstances it`s unlikely anyone would. But in reality millions of Americans do the same thing by refusing to acknowledge or adapt to economic changes.</div> <div> No one is likely to argue that the U.S. economy hasn't changed in the last 25 years. We still have a manufacturing presence. But other sectors have undoubtedly surpassed manufacturing in terms of creating high-paying jobs. It's been easy to see and recognize, just as the flood was to the second man in our story.</div> <div> Sadly, many Americans have reacted to the changing economic atmosphere just like the second neighbor did to his flooding river. As America's economic flood rose we left our boats tied to the trees, going nowhere, and eventually being swamped.</div> <div> Of course, it can be difficult and disconcerting to cast-off into the unknown like the first neighbor did. It is far easier to remain close to familiar territory and attempt to preserve what is already held. But isn't it the definition of foolishness to expect a different result from pursuing the same actions?</div> <div> My friends, our boats won't float on top of a rising river if we leave them chained to the trees. Our economic "boats" work the same way.</div> <div> If we remain tied to the old ways we shouldn't expect to benefit from a changing economy. At some point we have to recognize that the imminent dangers of the status quo far outweigh whatever hazards may or may not lie around the bend.</div> <div> We should disregard any politician, bureaucrat, or pundit who tries to convince us to leave our boats tied to the trees while they bail the flooding economic river with a spoon.</div> <div> <A HREF="id171_m.htm" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U>Back to Top</U></A></div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div>  <A NAME="what_happened_to_sexual_harassment_"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><FONT SIZE="4" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >What Happened to Sexual Harassment?</FONT></div> <div> Sexual harassment no longer useful to the feminist agenda</div> <div> October 11, 2006</div> <bR> <div> There are two prime definitions of sexual harassment. Under one circumstance, the first party continues to make amorous advances after repeated rejections. The second applies when professional advancement is made contingent on providing sensual favors.</div> <div> The first situation is primarily a nuisance and shouldn't necessarily be illegal unless stalking is involved. Think about it. It isn't uncommon for a woman to reject a man's advances several times before going on a date with him. If men did not make repeated advances the movie theatres and steak houses would go bankrupt.</div> <div> The second situation is illegal and should be. A person's advancement should be based on their abilities in the workplace, not in the Motel 6. This type of predator deserves punishment, although it should be added that employers aren't necessarily responsible for the unauthorized acts of an employee. </div> <div> This issue hit the national spotlight primarily due to the Clarence Thomas-Anita Hill situation. If you recall, Hill accused Thomas of sexually harassing her when she worked for him at the EEOC in the 1980s. Hill claimed Thomas hounded her with discussions of sexual acts and pornography after she refused to date him.</div> <div> There was no verification for Hill's accusations and soon the nature of the evidence didn't matter, only the seriousness of the charge. This established a precedent that resulted in a groundswell of harassment charges. The number of complaints filed with the EEOC and state Fair Employment Practices agencies rose from just over 6000 in 1991 to 15,889 in 1997. And the monetary rewards nearly quadrupled over that period.</div> <div> It came to the point that any contact between men and women resulted in some form of sexual harassment. Radical feminist leaders went so far as to claim consensual relations, even between married couples, amounted to rape. It was the hot topic for several years.</div> <div> Since 1997 sexual harassment complaints have declined to levels not seen since 1993. What happened to precipitate such a change?</div> <div> Publicity surely played a role as people became more aware of their words and deeds. However, since men and women did not forego dating, engagements, marriages, and pro-creation altogether, there must be another reason for the decline in cases. Something else did occur in the late 1990s, and it silenced feminism's exploitation of sexual harassment.</div> <div> William Jefferson Clinton's alleged sexual harassment of Paula Jones became a major story. The accusations were enhanced by the Monica Lewinsky affair. While there was never irrefutable proof that Clinton harassed Jones -there was, however, ample proof of the Lewinsky event- the Anita Hill axiom was abandoned. The "seriousness of the charge" no longer mattered as much as the nature of the evidence.</div> <div> What were the feminists to do? On one hand they could sacrifice two women and the sexual harassment crusade. On the other hand they could abandon the president they adored. They chose option one, proving that their motivation wasn't women's issues but a political agenda.</div> <div> Feminists defended Clinton on the same charge for which they crucified Thomas. They had nothing good to say about Jones or Lewinsky. By their own hand they have cemented their hypocrisy. They do not support achievement or advancement by women unless those women are, themselves, feminists.</div> <div> Leaders of the women's movement have become little more than female versions of Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton, perpetuating the eternal victim. They promote and defend only women who go along with their perception of womanhood. They have no interest in women's choices. They belittle or silence any woman who decides to stay home and raise a family, or opposes abortion, or rejects lesbianism as a natural affection.</div> <div> "Women's issues" is a politically correct term used to advance an underlying collectivist crusade. Sexual harassment was heralded when it served that purpose and dropped like a hot rock when it got in the way. Feminists now have little to say about it and even less credibility if they do speak.</div> <div> Sexual harassment served its politically correct purpose for a time, but it's obviously no longer the feminist's cause de jour.</div> <div> <A HREF="id171_m.htm" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U>Back to Top</U></A></div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div>  <A NAME="some_views_on_life_and_current_events_4"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><FONT SIZE="4" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >Some Views on Life and Current Events-4</FONT></div> <div> October 5, 2006</div> <bR> <div> Democratic legislators insist that Iraq is a mistake and a waste of time, money, and lives. Yet every last Democratic Senator voted for $70 billion in funding for the war effort. If they believed privately what they say publicly they should oppose such an appropriation.</div> <div> We could do wonders in promoting domestic peace and tranquility if only we would teach people to park straight.</div> <div> No matter your position on Iraq, Democratic insistence that we pull out prematurely proves their refusal to learn from history. Had their party's last president not pulled out prematurely he likely wouldn't have landed in such trouble.</div> <div> Chain gangs that were legal in the 1930s are unconstitutional now. When and what part of the Constitution was amended to outlaw chain gangs? Or, is it simply that we have lost our nerve in dealing with criminals?</div> <div> It is accepted that positive thinking most often produces positive results. Therefore, negative thinking must produce negative results. Decide, this day, which one you will serve.</div> <div> It is now safe to carry travel size grooming and hygiene items onto airliners. This raises a few questions. What changed to make these items safe now if they weren't safe before? Why are 1-ounce tubes of toothpaste safe but 6-ounce tubes unsafe? Will Muslims with large tubes of toothpaste receive more scrutiny than other travelers? If not, why? And how serious are we, really, in combating Islamic militants? </div> <div> Tiffany Hall killed a pregnant mother and the carried child. She is rightly charged with murder and intentional homicide of an unborn child. If intentionally killing an unborn child is a crime where does that leave the abortionist?</div> <div> Here is yet another example of Mahmoud Ahmadinejad's confused mentality. He condemns Western hegemony while Iran manipulates Lebanon via their funding and arming of Hezbollah. </div> <div> A good spouse is like a helium balloon, lifting the other to greater and greater heights. Conversely, a poor spouse is like dragging a ship's anchor uphill. </div> <div> Self-reliance is different in today's lexicon than yesteryear's. Self-reliance now denotes a person who doesn't rely on government for their existence. Since Christians rely on Jesus -not government- we are the most "self-reliant" people in America.</div> <div> Hugo Chavez and Mahmoud Ahmadinejad did more to prove America's cultural superiority than any PR campaign we could muster. They stood on American soil and derided our nation, our government, and our president during U.N. speeches. How long would their governments have suffered our leaders doing likewise on their soil?</div> <div> The French Major General in command of the U.N. peacekeeping force in Lebanon stated unequivocally that his forces would not work to disarm Hezbollah. This should surprise no one, considering the success French forces had in disarming Nazi Germany.</div> <div> A political pundit's review of President Bush's speech to the United Nations declared his words "conciliatory, yet hard-line". Perhaps the reporter's assessment was relevant, yet inapplicable. Chalk up one nomination for the oxymoron of the year.</div> <div> Cindy Sheehan plans to construct a tree house on the property purchased for her near Crawford, Texas. I have a few architectural suggestions for her. It should resemble a Swiss chalet, with a small door in the attic. That way, Sheehan can pop out every hour, on the hour.</div> <div> Media pundits criticized the Bush administration for high gas prices and their negative effect on the economy. Now gas prices are falling and media pundits are worried it will spark inflation that will adversely affect the economy. This teaches us that both high and low gas prices stifle economic growth. That is, as long as a Republican is in the White House.</div> <div> Rep. Charles Rangel recently said "...being Black in America is a death sentence". The same can be said for being White, Asian, Hispanic, or anything else. We all have to go sometime.</div> <div> <A HREF="id171_m.htm" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U>Back to Top</U></A></div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div>  <A NAME="some_views_on_life_and_current_events_3"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><FONT SIZE="4" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >Some Views on Life and Current Events-3</FONT></div> <div> October 4, 2006</div> <bR> <div> People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) publish "fact sheets", which must be the greatest example of an oxymoron since "government assistance" and "army intelligence".</div> <div> I can't help but believe that if we allowed children to earn self-esteem, instead of trying to build it for them, not only would their self-esteem be higher but of more value as well.</div> <div> The IRS has a program through which private collections agencies pursue delinquent accounts. Taxpayers whose accounts are turned over to the private program receive a letter from the IRS advising them of their rights. It seems to me that if government is explaining your rights to you, you really have no rights at all.</div> <div> The Guardian newspaper reports that Pakistani torture may have played a role in foiling the recent airline bomb plot. To the liberal mind this outweighs the fact that mass death was prevented. Now, in order to be fair, should we release those terrorists and allow them to complete their mission? That seems to be the mindset of the typical leftist in regard to dealing with Muslims lunatics.</div> <div> The New York Times editorialized the great humanitarian work and rebuilding efforts conducted by Hezbollah in Lebanon. Wow, what great guys they are. And all the time we thought they were terrorists intent on killing the unarmed and unaware. Here's a thought: let's bring them to America and put them in charge of rebuilding New Orleans.</div> <div> From a domestic standpoint fiscal conservatives face a tough choice in the coming election. A vote for the current crop of Republicans is a vote for more of the excessive spending and government growth that has plagued the last five years. But by not voting, or voting Democrat, we get a group whose main gripe with the GOP is that they aren't spending enough.</div> <div> I like pork. However, I prefer it chopped with sauce and slaw, not served up by a politician intent on buying my vote.</div> <div> Media outlets gleefully reported the Supreme Court decision concerning the treatment of prisoners at Guantanamo Bay as a blow to the Bush administration's war on terror. It would be interesting to know if the same pundits would have reacted in the same way to a court decision regarding FDR's prosecution of the War on Japan.</div> <div> Here's a proposal for the opponents of capital punishment who argue that the death penalty is not a deterrent or that it doesn't bring the victim back. I'll drop my support for the death penalty when you can show me one executed murderer who was subsequently released from prison and committed another crime.</div> <div> Any policy disagreement with a liberal is immediately labeled a "mean-spirited attack". Yet when liberals falsely accuse conservatives of poisoning the air and water, denying medicine to the elderly, and starving schoolchildren it is considered "dissent".</div> <div> Hugo Chavez won praise from liberals by promising to use oil to meet "humanitarian needs". This is considered good oil, and it tells us that American leftists don't hate oil itself as a fuel or commodity. What they actually hate is the private ownership and exchange of oil, just like they hate the private ownership and exchange of everything else.</div> <div> A tolerant man is no longer defined as one who lives and lets live. Being tolerant in today's politically correct environment means abandoning every last principle so as not to offend perverts, fanatics, criminals, or other weirdo's.</div> <div> It took a California Supreme Court decision to reinstate a requirement that high school seniors pass an exam indicating they have mastered 10th grade English and 8th grade math before receiving 12th grade diplomas. No wonder Asians and Indians are filling American tech jobs. </div> <div> Not to denigrate or deny the value of education, but isn't it odd how many free-market, capitalist companies now require a job prospect to possess a bachelor's degree? Basically, this means the only people deemed beneficial to the free-market, capitalist company are prospects who spent four years listening to socialist college professors lecture on the evils and inequities of free-market, capitalist economies.</div> <div> While at a local library searching a list of publishing companies I discovered a book published by the Cornell University Press titled "Venomous Reptiles of the Western Hemisphere", by Jonathan A. Campbell and William W. Lamar. What a disappointment to find that it wasn't a history of the Democratic Party.</div> <div> In all the years of Hollywood, has Tinsel Town ever produced a bigger nothing than Jane Fonda? Maybe Johnny Depp, but at least he had the decency to move to France and live among his own kind.</div> <div> It's pitiful to hear union members contribute any and all personal success to their unions. In reality it is the union that is beholding to the member for survival. It seems that union members are undervaluing their worth, and overvaluing that of the unions, by crediting unions for what their work accomplished.</div> <div> <A HREF="id171_m.htm" TITLE="Archives 2006"><U>Back to Top</U></A></div> <bR> <DIV ALIGN="LEFT"></DIV> <div>  <A NAME="some_views_on_life_and_current_events_2"><IMG BORDER="0" SRC="1x1.gif" HEIGHT="1" ALIGN="bottom" WIDTH="1" HSPACE="0" VSPACE="0" ></A><FONT SIZE="4" COLOR="#000000" FACE="Arial" >Some Views on Life and Current Events-2</FONT></div> <div> October 2, 2006</div> <bR> <div> There is no "life's lottery" that can be won or lost. If you want to make more money or have a better life than you do presently, maybe you should consider changing something you are presently doing.</div> <div> John Edwards is such a brave leader. During a recent appearance he tested the presidential waters by calling for troops to withdraw from Iraq in "a year or so". Isn't that the same time frame that American generals have said Iraqis will be ready to assume security responsibilities?</div> <div> How can anyone argue that by executing a murderer we are no different than they are? It seems that the rest of us have proved our selves different by not raping, robbing, and killing our neighbor in the first place.</div> <div> If you have an idea for an invention and keep telling your self that no one will buy it, just remember the pet rock.</div> <div> A videotape tape posted to an Islamic website on eve of 9/11's anniversary depicted a smiling bin Laden purportedly planning the attacks on America. A narrator said the atmosphere surrounding the session was "brimming with brotherliness… and love for sacrificing life". If that doesn't convince you of the kind of enemy we are fighting, you are a lost cause. </div> <div> Phil Angelides, the Democratic candidate for governor of California, seized on a recent race-related comment by Gov. Schwarzenegger. He accused Schwarzenegger of "language that is deeply offensive to all Californians". It strikes me that any politician claiming to speak for "all" the people is someone that shouldn't be trusted with public office.</div> <div> Free speech is apparently reserved for a select few. Not even the most vehement critic of "Fahrenheit 9/11" called for that the movie be pulled or altered due to its poor reflections on the Bush administration. Yet, members of the Clinton administration have demanded exactly that for ABC's "The Path to 9/11", which is said to reflect poorly on their attention to terrorism during the 1990s.</div> <div> California Senator Sheila Kuehl's measure to prohibit any school activity that could be construed as critical of "sexual orientation" is proof that the gay agenda is far less about anti-discrimination than it is about forced acceptance.</div> <div> Chevrolet must manufacture a little-known vehicle called a "Suburbanmarine". How else can it be explained that greenhouse gases are coming from the floor of the Atlantic Ocean, 100 miles from the New York-New Jersey coast?</div> <div> Britain, France, and Germany warn that Iran's stalling on nuclear negotiations is an attempt to weaken international opposition to their nuclear program. Shortly we can expect another joint European statement telling us that grass is green and the sky is blue.</div> <div> It took a federal jury to determine that Alfonso Rodriguez, Jr. -a sex offender recently convicted of kidnapping a young woman, killing her, and dumping her body- is a candidate for the death penalty. What does it say about our courts and criminal justice system that there was ever a question?</div> <div> A study released by Science finds that permafrost contains as much a