LETTERS: NCT, Sept. 14, 2008
By Readers of the North County Times | ∞
Devotees can't calculate the cost of Obama
Oh my goodness, what a wonderful night it was at the Democratic Convention. Well, except for the chum (bait for drawing fish to the catch). It seems that Sen. Obama must have missed a class or two at Harvard, because he can't differentiate between debt and income. Of course, neither can many fellow citizens who owe more than they can earn and spend more than they can pay and still want to upgrade to keep up with the trendy.
The country is trillions in debt, thanks mostly to Congress and much to President Bush. So presidential hopeful Obama promises to give everyone everything they want –– health care, education, energy, foreign policy (giveaways), military cutbacks, etc., and lower taxes for everyone except the rich who, even with (their) tax cuts, still pay most of the taxes.
Sadly, the mesmerized crowd of devotees can't or won't calculate the cost, so they don't see that these are empty promises. Neither he nor the Congress can spin wool (over their eyes) into gold (we don't have). We are and have been broke, foreign entities are buying up our country and our industry is gone.
Fred Schuster
Vista
More to know about Sarah Palin
I am puzzled by the glowing reviews of Sarah Palin. Yes, she is young and charismatic and has fired up her party's base. But her track record is thin on experience and filled with questionable actions. As Wasilla's mayor, she fired the librarian ... only withdrawing that firing after public outcry. ... As governor, she is under investigation for alleged abuse of power by her office in a wrongful termination of her public safety commissioner, who had refused to fire her ex-brother-in-law. She claims to fight pork-barrel projects but, as mayor, her town of 5,000 lobbied for $27 million in federal funds. She claims to have said, "Thanks, but no thanks," to funds for the controversial "Bridge to Nowhere," when in fact she actively campaigned for it and continued to push for its funding, even after it was ridiculed as the ultimate in wasteful government projects.
And I'm sorry, but overseeing the local efforts of the Alaska National Guard does not constitute the foreign policy experience that for months McCain had claimed was the most important factor to qualify for such a high office. An impressive speaker, certainly, but there is much more we need to know about Sarah Palin.
Tom Brault
Oceanside
Did they give up the ship?
Regarding the USS Pueblo story ("40 years after capture, USS Pueblo crew reunites," Sept. 7): In my opinion, all the held captives are heroes, as emphasized by their group's middle-finger salute; however, as to its capture? No! It was not in the true naval tradition. Where were a Capt. Lawrence and his "Don't give up the ship. Fight her till she sinks," or a John Paul Jones and his "Sir, I have not yet begun to fight"?
The USS Pueblo was the first U.S. Navy ship to be hijacked on the high seas by a foreign military force in over 150 years –– possibly because the ammunition on the Pueblo was stored below decks and her machine guns were wrapped in cold-weather tarpaulins. The machine guns were unmanned, and no attempt was made to man them.
The USS Liberty was badly damaged by the Israelis a mere seven months before, with a loss of 34 men during their battle (the Pueblo lost one), but managed to keep their ship afloat and meekly make it back to port. Was the decision not to fight Bucher's, or was it some lame-brained superior (military or civilian) up the line?
Harry Titus
Oceanside
Republican convention like a circus
Watching the Republican National Convention last week was like a flashback to the days of vaudeville. I felt I was watching a succession of hokey juggling acts, clumsy legerdemain and corny jokes. The response of the bilious crowd was a little disturbing, however. Their robotic response seemed programmed to howl for the lowest kind of scurrilous slander, which they lapped up with unseemly eagerness. I couldn't help thinking how these same moralistic hypocrites would have reacted if Chelsea Clinton had gotten pregnant at the age of 17. They would have labeled Hillary a degenerate, called her unfit to raise a child and bemoaned the pernicious influence of her permissive liberality. Such dishonesty has now become the standard for American conservatives, unfortunately.
And then there's McCain trying to rebrand himself as an agent of change. His idea of change is ordering the cabin boys to rearrange the deck chairs while he goes ramming icebergs. We're constantly being told what a hero McCain is for being a POW. You'd think he would've learned from the experience that war is hell and should be avoided. Instead he pledges to start more wars, still trying to win the one that got away, still trying to get revenge.
Gerold Firl
Poway
North has no credibility
On Sept. 1, you published an opinion piece from Oliver North titled "Good news reported as bad in Afghan raid" in the Opinion section. Mr. North stated the neither he nor his cameraman saw "any noncombatants killed." Now comes video evidence to the contrary, provided by both the U.N. and the BBC. Based on the videotape evidence provided by these sources, some 90 civilians, including 60 children, were killed in the raid. Clearly Mr. North is either misinformed or outright lying to cover up this massacre.
When can we agree that the credibility of Mr. Oliver North might not rise to a level where the North County Times would afford him a platform for his lies? After all, this man is a known ... obstructor of justice and Fox News star. Worse yet, the U.S. military is now using Mr. North's reporting to corroborate its investigation of this atrocity.
Randall Smith
San Marcos
Earmarks not our biggest issue
John McCain promises to reform Washington and drive out the lobbyists. That would certainly be a fine thing to do, but it is not the main problem facing the country at this point. McCain has dropped his promise of winning the war in Iraq, but has not given us his prescription for a way out of the quagmire. We need to free our troops to fight in Afghanistan and to back up our policies around the world if necessary. We cannot stay in Iraq forever, waiting for the Iraqis to stand up. The surge has not produced the governmental progress it was designed to facilitate.
Our most serious problem now is the economy and the fallout from the housing crisis. Unless this is resolved as quickly as possible, many Americans will suffer far more than necessary from foreclosures, job losses and inflation. The economy is the main issue, and Iraq next. Getting rid of earmarks is great, but it's just not our biggest problem.
Allan Clark
Carlsbad
Council must remember they represent us
As a resident of Oceanside, and a member of the public who frequently attends City Council meetings, I want the council members to remember why they are in those seats. They represent the taxpayers.
It is reprehensible to read the comments by Jerry Kern, who refers to those who challenge the council decisions as "destructionists" and Jack Feller, who implies that the firefighters are "intimidating" ("Firefighters union makes presence felt at City Hall," Aug. 31). These speak-before-you-think expressions need to stop.
The council members need to remember the rights of any citizen to disagree with and challenge their decisions, many of which are questionable and should be challenged. It would be respectful to keep their personal opinions of the public who do attend the meetings to themselves. They should just step out if being a name-calling, disgruntled representative is all they are. With remarks from Kern and Feller, no wonder more residents do not participate in City Council meetings or render their opinions.
Donna McGinty
Oceanside
Vote for equality: Vote 'no' on 8
Any parent who has ever attempted to instruct a child concerning whom she/he may marry understands the discord and intrusion that can be created by a constitutional amendment that narrowly defines marriage. It is mandatory to vote "no" on 8. If only to honor the founders of this country, we must defeat this state proposition in November. It restricts the definition of marriage to one between a woman and a man.
Using the California Constitution, or any American Constitution, crosses the divide between church and state. It also crosses the line that we must respect and support, the one protecting privacy and our pursuit of happiness. I believe, in addition, that the issue of equality seriously impacts our pursuit of happiness.
In our democracy, we discuss and support equal rights and opportunities. But are we simply paying lip service to the concept expressed in the Declaration of Independence: "We hold these truths to be self-evident that all men (humans) are created equal, that they are endowed by their creator with certain unalienable rights, life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness." Yes, I believe in equality –– join me in voting "no" on 8!
Ag Herman
San Marcos
Activists need a lesson in state law
Perhaps Mr. Bill Flores and his fellow activists need a lesson in California and United States law. Being in this country illegally is not, as Mr. Flores states, "a minor offense," nor is driving without a license ("City, tow companies rake in millions from unlicensed drivers," Aug. 31). He believes the Latino community is targeted. There are no demographics to support this. When did ethnicity become the issue?ˇ Illegal is illegal, and we are surprised that a former law officer overlooks this.
These are checkpoints, randomly pulling cars over to check for sobriety, drugs and unlicensed drivers. They have removed 9,700 automobiles from our streets for the simple reason that driving without a license is illegal. The hit-and-run accidents are declining, making our roads much safer. As citizens, we are tired of paying to cover unlicensed, uninsured drivers. Are we expected to continue to bear the financial burden to cover all unlawful motorists? Many of these unlicensed drivers are also illegal immigrants. Deport them.
We applaud any organization taking steps to remove unlawful drivers from our streets, hopefully reducing skyrocketing insurance and medical costs.
Craig and Paula
Libby
Oceanside
It's what in her head that counts
Jan Fisher's letter (Sept. 4) on the ponytail shows us just how much sense Democrats have. It's not what's on top of the head, it's what's inside. Duh. Hillary has shown us that there is not much in hers by staying married to a cheating, lying husband and losing to a do-nothing senator. ...
Ann Peters
Valley Center
A Republican joke
David Brooks' praise of Sarah Palin's speech is a joke ("A glimpse of the new," Sept. 6).ˇDid he think her speech was written by her? Her words "flowed" in a "smart and assertive" speech from a TeleprompTer. This speech was written by a professional speechwriter, probably by one of Karl Rove's lackeys.
Sarah Palin is a ... narrow-minded representative of the worst of the evangelicals. She totes her sad little infant around, being patted on the back for her "choice" in giving birth to him, yet she denies choice to other women, regardless of rape or incest. She knows nothing of world politics or the economy.
She denigrates community service –– a noble and productive service. She supports creationism and believes global warming created by something other than being man-made. She would happily slaughter the polar bears and wolves (shooting from an airplane –– what sport!). She cut funds for a shelter for unwed mothers.
This is not a compassionate nor caring person. If this is the best the Republicans can offer for vice president, what a joke.
Judith Bunin
Rancho Bernardo
Feminists are hypocritical frauds
Sarah Palin has caused me to dare to hope that finally, I will have a voice in politics. Finally, I will be represented by a woman in politics who shares my values. That is, if the feminists don't succeed in destroying her.
The irony is that Sarah has achieved the goal of feminism as it was taught to me as a young woman in the 1980s. Feminists sought the right for women to choose their own destiny. They wanted a level playing field so women could actually achieve the goals they set for themselves. They wanted women to be free to pursue a career without being forced into the traditional role of wife and mother. They wanted women to be taken seriously in the marketplace of ideas. They encouraged woman to be strong and decisive, to make up their own minds on issues.
Gov. Sarah Palin embodies the goals of feminism and yet she is savaged by feminists. While I still applaud the success of the women's movement that paved the way for women like Sara Palin, it is clear that feminist leaders are hypocritical, agenda-driven, saboteurs and frauds who only support liberal women who think like them!
Cheryl Coleman
Escondido
Project planned with no thought to residents
I live in La Costa Downs, a residential area due west of the proposed car dealership on Avenida Encinas ("Carlsbad commissioners delay decision on luxury auto mall," Sept. 4). I attended last Wednesday's Planning Commission meeting, and spoke to the fact that this project was planned with no consideration for the many residents living around the 23-acre site. The entrance will be directly across from the entrance to the Poinsettia Coaster Station, and they propose to install signal lights at the new intersection. You Coaster riders better be on time because if you hit a red light, you're going to miss your train. There will also be more traffic, light pollution and noise pollution affecting the area.
Please, if you want to retain some coastal environment in our city north of Poinsettia, attend the next Planning Commission meeting Sept. 17 at City Hall on Carlsbad Village Drive.
Patricia Sanchez
Carlsbad
We do not want this in our newspaper
What shock and disappointment I saw in your paper this morning. It is so sad to see that your paper is now trying to shove down our throats the sinful celebration of gay couples. You had a picture announcing the marriage of two gay guys this morning. We all know this is wrong, and to allow this to take over this page that many of us look for will now never be the same.
I refuse to announce the upcoming marriage of any of my children as long as you put these announcements in your paper. This is not a celebration, but gays trying to think this is OK and put it in our faces. It is not!
I have been a longtime reader of your paper, but if I see this done again, I will cancel my subscription. Shame on you for thinking this is what we want to see, since you never did this before. This is wrong, and now I cannot let my children read your paper in fear of what may be coming since you have decided to do this. ...
Adrienne Brown
Encinitas
Height of hypocrisy from council
Regarding, "Council candidates divided over school issue," Sept. 1: So many people seem to develop amnesia when assessing the actions of the school district. This is the same district that educates our children, and does a good job of it at that.
School districts must constantly find their way through a maze of regulations and funding obstacles to keep the schoolhouse doors open and ready. This project is a creative attempt by the district to develop an alternate, stable, supplemental source of funding to help buffer our schools from the whims of Sacramento budgets. Rather than objecting to the district's concept, they should be commended for having the insight to try something new. Our children and their children will get far more benefit from the district's plan than they ever will from another park located a few blocks from Moonlight Beach.
There is a public process that the site development needs to go through for approvals, which is as it should be; but it's the district's prerogative to propose how to use the land, not the city's. For anyone on the council to complain about a lack of transparency on the part of the district, after all their back-door shenanigans on the Hall Property, et al., is the height of hypocrisy.
Jeff Parshalle
Encinitas
The Edwards impact on presidential race
I have yet to see any commentary on the effect of the timing of John Edwards' admission of his affair vis-a-vis Hillary Clinton. Had it been discovered much earlier in the primary, it could easily have been a McCain-Hillary race, and Palin might still be an unknown in the lower 48. What a fascinating set of falling dominoes that would have been. Just imagine the power of the pen –– something Edwards should have kept in his pocket.
John Stires
Rancho Santa Fe
There's no change with McCain/Palin
That's it! I'm tired of Sarah Palin and the Republican Party framing the conversation around her and the "Bridge to Nowhere!" I want to hear the issues, choice vs. abstinence, Supreme Court vacancies, torture, the economy, health care, the war in Iraq, dialogue with other nations, peacekeeping, media watchdogs, and the list goes on.
Our country's future has never been so fragile, and here we are talking about personality issues. Barack Obama has clear ideas and plans for the above. John McCain wants more of the same. Republicans can't divorce themselves from the past eight years of mismanagement, no matter how they try! There's no change with McCain. It's truly time for change. Vote Obama/Biden!
Vi Mooberry
Escondido
A cause for celebration
Thank you for publishing the engagement picture of Ben Jarvis and Pat LeBlanc in Sunday's Celebrations section. I was delighted to see that the North County Times includes gay couples in this section. It's heartwarming to know that Ben, who was once a little boy in my Sunday school class many years ago, has grown up and met the man of his dreams. It is indeed cause for celebration. Way to go, Ben!
Laurie Miller
Escondido
Palin shows disrespect for marriage
It seems reasonable to expect the Republican vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin would be married before being pregnant, as well as her daughter. The example for teenagers in this country is a poor precedent. It sends a message of disregard for marriage.
Sarah Palin and her daughter have shown a great disrespect for the institution of marriage, which deserves greater consideration.
William Wernett
Fallbrook
Select new location for hospital
Needless to state, I am indeed sorry that the Tri-City hospital bond failed for the third time. I am not at all surprised. For one thing, Tri-City hospital is top-heavy with management. Management are greatly overpaid. If they don't like cutting their salaries, encourage them to move on.
The board members sat on their rear ends after the first and second bonds failed, and didn't make any effect to select another suitable location to start building from the ground up. There are still a few suitable locations in the Tri-City area to build on. But they are going fast. Another ... item that doesn't go over with taxpayers is spending millions of dollars to tear down part of Tri-City hospital that they had spent millions of dollars constructing not too many years ago. Other hospitals have had the foresight to build a completely new hospital at another location with adequate parking. Just why can't Tri-City board members wake up?
The taxpayers have once again spoken loud and clear. Just what more proof do the board members need? It is quite clear that unless the board members select another suitable location for a completely new hospital, they are not going to get any bonds passed today or tomorrow. Period.
George Carter
Oceanside
Kids can't raise themselves
Gov. Sarah Palin: Hockey mom, wears lipstick, has five beautiful kids, very beautiful woman. She could be wearing a bikini –– but she would still be a Republican. Stay home. Kids can't raise themselves.
Joe Parra
Vista
All women do have the same opportunity
Bunny Landis' letter in the Sept. 7 North County Times titled "All women should have the same opportunity" implies that Gov. Palin didn't abort her Down syndrome baby or her 17-year-old daughter's pregnancy because she has a full-time nanny and her daughter has family support. The pro-choice people can't seem to understand that pro-life decisions are based on a mother's moral and ethical convictions, not on family availability or economic status.
I commend Bunny, however, for her honesty in revealing the popular stance of the pro-choice, that the unborn have no more right to live than do domestic animals. You have the right to just "put them down" if they are a cost burden, interfere with your lifestyle or have a birth defect. In reality, the unborn, regardless of development stage –– zygote, embryo or fetus –– are unique human beings, each with its own, unique DNA. They should have the same right to live as those in life's other stages: infanthood, childhood, teen years, adulthood and old age. It seems that if the rationale of Bunny's letter prevailed, abortion laws would expand to allow putting down children of any age if they get sick, if you lose your job, get a divorce, etc.
Ralph Anderson
San Marcos
Pray that Iran never develops nuclear weapon
Mel Crawford's letter of Aug. 17 stated that, "Of the three countries (the U.S., Israel and Iran), only Iran has signed the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty." Not so, Mr. Crawford. According to Wikipedia, "There are currently 189 countries party to the treaty, five of which have nuclear weapons, the U.S. (which signed on July 1, 1968), U.K., France, Russia and China, only four are not [part of the treaty] India, Pakistan, Israel and North Korea." Yet, Mr. Crawford singled Israel out as causing the problems existing in the Middle East.
Mr. Crawford conveniently ignored the part of my letter that exposed Iran's persecution of Christians and people of the Bahai faith. Mr. Crawford needs to be reminded that a single nuclear weapon is enough to destroy the small Jewish state and its 7 million people, and President Ahmadinejad has sworn to "wipe Israel off the map." Why, then, is Mr. Crawford demonizing Israel and supporting Iran when Israel's only desire is to be allowed to exist? Join Mr. Crawford in support of Iran? Never! Instead, I recommend that he join me in praying that Iran, with or without Russia's help, never develops the bomb that could trigger a nuclear holocaust that could destroy the world.
Dolores Wiener
Oceanside
Wal-Mart's obligation to Oceanside
Re: "Wal-Mart appears to be planning local grocery store," Sept. 9: If Wal-Mart Stores Inc. (through the Gatlin Corp.) is allowed to put up a "boutique" grocery on the southeast corner of Oceanside Boulevard at Melrose intersection, we think the Oceanside City Council should require Wal-Mart –– with its three other revenue-producing properties in Oceanside –– to also buy and gift to the city the northeast corner of that intersection.
Here is a perfect place for a wayside park, with views down to the undeveloped section of Guajome Regional Park, and across to Sleeping Indian Morro on the north and Mount Palomar to the northeast. The wayside could be billed "Gateway to the City of Oceanside" or "Bridge Between the Cities," meaning, of course, Oceanside and Vista.
As long as we have lived here, since 1992, we have shuddered at the thought of this precious view being lost to the public. The winter panorama with snow on the mountains is particularly beautiful.
Jan and Jack Boysen
Oceanside
Palin doesn't know our pain
I doubt that Gov. Sarah Palin, whose state has less than 1 million people, whose oil/gas-rich state could afford to give each taxpayer $1,000 from windfall oil profits, knows our pain. Alaska is basically a landlord charging more for rich oil leases –– and that's her standing up to Big Oil and she knows our pain? Her unions in Alaska won't be outsourced to Third World countries –– how can she know our pain? Not being able to ship jobs overseas takes away the biggest corporation union-busting tactic. Her as an "energy expert" –– is that of a lobbyist for Big Oil/gas profits benefiting her Alaskans? So how does the Gov. of Alaska know the lower 48 states' pain?
William Cummings
Oceanside
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Mary wrote on Sep 14, 2008 1:10 AM:That is funny Donna, didn't you support Kern in the last election?
In a lonely place wrote on Sep 14, 2008 4:46 AM:How sad is the letter from Adrienne Brown? People of her ilk would’ve been similarly shocked and outraged seeing wedding announcements of interracial couples in the newspaper 50 years ago.
“We all know this is wrong,” she says. Well, no, we all don’t. Shame on the NCT since they never did this before, she says. It wasn’t legal before, Adrienne. What part of legal does she not understand?
Funny how she doesn’t seem to mind her children reading on the front page how our bombs are killing and maiming children in Iraq and Afghanistan. But a gay wedding announcement? A travesty!
Lastly, I seriously doubt her children are reading the wedding announcements page. If they are, and they’re boys, she’s in for a surprise in about 10 years.
Disillusioned wrote on Sep 14, 2008 4:55 AM:I support most Republican values but CANNOT get behind Palin. What was McCain thinking? I will support McCain over Obama but will be holding my nose as regards to Palin. I WILLBE HOLDING MY NOSE. Shame on you John M. for settling. You should have done better. My support is tepid, at best. Shame on you brings shame to us all.
Alf wrote on Sep 14, 2008 5:15 AM:The letter from Fred Schuster is correct.
I must point out that McGWB has said that he will increase spending, keep current tax cuts, not increase taxes AND balance the budget.
It would seem that, of the two, Obama is MORE realistic.
I did NOT say that Obama was realistic, only that he is MORE realistic.
I will still vote for neither and write in Ron Paul instead.
Regards, Alf.
Alf wrote on Sep 14, 2008 5:22 AM:The letter from Randall Smith points out that the credibility of Ollie North is-
ZERO.
In fact, it is LESS THAN ZERO!
Regards, Alf.
Alf wrote on Sep 14, 2008 5:35 AM:I disagree with Allan Clark when he says "Our most serious problem now is the economy and the fallout from the housing crisis.".
Our most serious problem is a president gone mad with extra-Constitutional power and a Legislature and Judiciary that let him get away with it.
"Not on the table" says and has said Pelosi for several YEARS to impeaching GWB and The Cheney Branch.
Reign back in the executive powers to ONLY those allowed by the Constitution, toss out all who support the insanity of GWB/Cheney in Iraq,
REPEAL the USA UN-Patriot Act and all related Acts,
RESTORE ALL our Constitutional Rights to pre-GWB status,
GET US OUT OF IRAQ,
AND THEN attack the problems listed by Allan Clark.
Regards, Alf.
Alf wrote on Sep 14, 2008 5:46 AM:The letter from Ag Herman says -
"Using the California Constitution, or any American Constitution, crosses the divide between church and state."
I respectfully submit what I perceive to be a reasonable modification and clarification to that sentence -
Using the California Constitution, or any American Constitution TO INTERJECT RELIGIOUS BELIEFS INTO LAW, crosses the divide between church and state.
Regards, Alf.
Put a fork in it wrote on Sep 14, 2008 5:57 AM:Usually, revelations about a candidate come in the form of a drip, drip, drip. Fittingly, in Sarah Palin’s case, it’s an avalanche.
The stories of cronyism, secrecy, abuse of power, personal vendetta, war mongering, outright lies and faith substituting for public policy are there for all to see. This is exactly what the American people have grown weary of the past eight years.
Those who still support GWB think she’s a Godsend, literally. Fortunately and inevitably, most will not quite see it that way. They’ll she her for what she is, a Bush clone.
McCain will have given up any pretense of distancing himself from GWB in the eyes of the majority of voters by selecting Palin, and with it, any chance of winning. His dead-cat bounce in the national polls is fading and so are the prospects of a third Bush term.
Alf wrote on Sep 14, 2008 6:05 AM:In her letter Adrienne Brown says that she is "shocked" by a picture and announcement of a "gay" couple being married??
Bigotry rears its ugly head.
I, personally, am uncomfortable seeing people using their tongues to examine the other person's tonsils whether hetero or homosexual.
BFHFD.
Adrienne Brown is free to be offended and shocked and to express indignation in any LEGAL way desired.
I'm sure that the revenue lost by not having wedding announcements from Adrienne Brown for any of Adrienne Brown's children will be offset by others.
Like someone said - Pull your hand out of a bucket of water and try to see the hole you left.
Regards, Alf.
Alf wrote on Sep 14, 2008 6:21 AM:The letter from Judith Bunin got me looking when she said "She [Palin] cut funds for a shelter for unwed mothers."
An article in the Washington Post shows an alleged document which has Palin lowering budget items, among them funds part of which would go to a shelter for unwed mothers.
Let me get this straight -
Palin has cut money for unwed mothers,
Palin would try to make abortions illegal.
It sure sounds like Palin is a role model of Christian beliefs, but I did not know that "kicking them when they're down" was advocated by Christ.
Did you?
Regards, Alf.
Alf wrote on Sep 14, 2008 6:28 AM:The letter from Ralph Anderson sinks to a new low from "pro-life".
The GROSS hyperbole is malodiferous at best.
It not only sinks, it stinks.
Regards, Alf.
Alf wrote on Sep 14, 2008 6:33 AM:The letter from Laurie Miller is a diametric opposite to the spiteful, hateful letter from Adrienne Brown.
From Laurie Miller comes happiness and joy, from Adrienne Brown comes the bile of bigotry.
Regards, Alf.
Alf wrote on Sep 14, 2008 6:38 AM:Don't worry, William Wernett, Palin openly flaunts being pregnant before marriage, her daughter is pregnant before marriage,
so Palin CUTS FUNDS for a shelter for unwed mothers.
Spite and hypocrisy, thy name is Palin!
Regards, Alf.
Alf wrote on Sep 14, 2008 6:51 AM:While Palin may be able to claim that she is religious and not be lying,
she cannot truthfully claim to be a Christian.
Her actions and attitudes remove all aspects of the teachings of "Christ" from "Christian".
She casts far too many stones for one who lives in a glass house.
Regards, Alf.
Apollo wrote on Sep 14, 2008 7:14 AM:Re: William Cummings (letter)
Cummings makes a valid point, but it is actually incomplete. He notes that Sarah Palin's "oil/gas-rich state could afford to give each taxpayer $1,000 from windfall oil profits."
Actually, the state socialistically owns what their former governor Wally Hickel call the "communal economy" of an oil production enterprise. The state has been providing a dividend ("rebate") benefit to each resident (not taxpayer) for decades. As reported in the Los Angeles Times, the difference under Palin was that she increased the state's take from the oil companies they contract with, and increased the per person rebate by $1,200.00, to a new total of $3,200 PER PERSON. So Palin's family of 7 would qualify to receive $22,400.00 in addition to other employment income. The L.A. Times' story featured a family of 9 receiving almost $30K.
Cummings also makes a good point about her narrow focus on gas/oil deals not making her an expert on energy. I agree. She knows nothing about the development and implementation of solar, wind or geothermal alternatives that represent the long-range solutions to energy dependence, nor has she expressed any interest in demanding that oil companies give priority to sales in domestic markets before selling to China or India.
Palin is Bush wrote on Sep 14, 2008 7:53 AM:Today's news stories include accounts of how Sarah Palin ran things in Alaska. Give lucrative jobs to your pals, go after those who've dissed you. Cronyism, it's called. Sound familiar? Add this to the many, many ways that Sarah Palin is a carbon copy of George W Bush, in beliefs, in style, in philosophy. Tied to big oil. Ignorant about foreign affairs. Belief that you start wars because God says you should. Anti-choice. Anti-stem cell research. Wants creationism taught with evolution in science classes. Squelching and disregarding subpoenas. Claims to be an outsider even as she runs with the ultimate insider. Seems like a regular gal, but is full of sneering malice. So we have a presidential candidate who has ditched his former integrity and has become a cheerleader for just about all of Bush's policies. And a veep who is nothing less than George W Bush repackaged. Choice is clear, isn't it. If the Republicans won't even say the name "Bush" in fear of the negatives, why in the world are they running two of him? If the Bush years are your idea of a great age in America, McCain/Palin is definitely for you. Otherwise, gotta be Obama or Ron Paul, doesn't it?
To Ann Peters wrote on Sep 14, 2008 8:01 AM:Why is saving a marriage so awful? Hillary is to be congratulated. As for Bill Clinton being a lying, cheating husband -- there are many of those -- they just don't always get caught!
Marlowe wrote on Sep 14, 2008 8:02 AM:From today's NY Times QUOTE WASHINGTON — The Bush administration is pushing through a broad array of foreign weapons deals as it seeks to rearm Iraq and Afghanistan, contain North Korea and Iran, and solidify ties with onetime Russian allies.From tanks, helicopters and fighter jets to missiles, remotely piloted aircraft and even warships, the Department of Defense has agreed so far this fiscal year to sell or transfer more than $32 billion in weapons and other military equipment to foreign governments, compared with $12 billion in 2005. The trend, which started in 2006, is most pronounced in the Middle East, but it reaches into northern Africa, Asia, Latin America, Europe and even Canada, through dozens of deals that senior Bush administration officials say they are confident will both tighten military alliances and combat terrorism.
“This is not about being gunrunners,” said Bruce S. Lemkin, the Air Force deputy under secretary who is helping to coordinate many of the biggest sales. “This is about building a more secure world.” ENDQUOTE And the Air Force under secretary says this with a straight face. Pretty impressive, isn't it? Because we know for sure that each and every one of those weapons will be used only and forever only by people who have the US's best interests at heart, right? None of those weapons will ever be used to initiate violence, only to defend people, right? Just like the chemical weapons we sold to Saddam to make the world safer, right? I know these deals make some of you rich. Do they make you proud, to see your country be the largest dealers in death the world has ever known? And this comes from our famously pro-life White House. Shameful.
A BAD Republican joke at that wrote on Sep 14, 2008 8:13 AM:Yes, as David Brooks was crowing about Sarah Palin's great speech, the facts have since come in. That speech was written by a former Bush speechwriter. It was written BEFORE Sarah Palin was selected to be McCain's running mate! It was "the speech the vp selection will give, whoever that turns out to be", and then edited to fit the person after she was selected. If McCain had been a man with integrity and power, he'd have Joe Lieberman as a running mate. That's the person McCain himself wanted. Oh, well. Then we'd have read David Brooks' column, spewing about the glories of Mr Lieberman's speech. And why not? It would've been the same speech. The Republican party must thank God every day for the sheer stupidity of the American voter.
Nick wrote on Sep 14, 2008 8:23 AM:Well, the letter from Adrienne Brown makes my point to a tee, when I say state how much I despise organzied religion and the hypocritical bigots that let "belief in God" dictate their lives.
She only proves that they are not intelligent enough to run their own lives, but let a book dictate it.
So much for free thinking!
She has been brainwashed into believing that somehow gay people are not people at all and shouldn't have any rights.
What a load of garbage!
Please cancel your subscription and don't bother writing to this paper anymore, you won't be missed.
As a matter of fact, you might want to stay in your house with the doors locked and wait for Christ to come.
You might just be waiting a longggggggggggggggg time!
Cheers, Nick.
par for the course wrote on Sep 14, 2008 8:40 AM:Can someone please explain to this simpleton what exactly the "tax cut for the rich" is and how it works? My understanding is that everyone received a percentage of the savings. I know I did and being semi-retired I am far from rich. Did the "rich" receive a larger percentage than I did or did they receive some sort of tax break that I did not?
Thanks for the education, this has bugged me for awhile.
Karl wrote on Sep 14, 2008 8:49 AM:Joe Parra, as a single male parent when my son was seven to fifteen I highly resent your message that unless a mom takes charge "Kids can't raise themselves". How sexist and utterly ridiculous. The son I raised is a college graduate and a very fine young man. If I, as a single male parent for many years am offended, I can only imagine the how many women you have ticked off.
Any comments democrat/liberal moms? Is raising children your sole responsibilty or are you married to someone who would do just fine as the primary care giver?
Boy, the more I think about it, the more you tick me off Mr. Parra(noid).
Ron wrote on Sep 14, 2008 8:59 AM:Exactly Fred Schuster. Devotees, groupies, messiah-ites, whatever...
they don't know, and frankly, they don't care. As long as they are told from On High that they will not be responsible for all of this largest, don't bother me with the details.
That's why I always say: Elections today, more resemble a fencing operation, than the selection of qualified leadership.
Since Obama severly lacks any kind of presidential experience, all he's got left is a government yard sale.
US wrote on Sep 14, 2008 9:24 AM:Feminists have lost touch! I am talking at the intellectual level. I happen to work with one and other than the repeated urge to vomit, when I see her, she is a hypocrite!
Other than making the repeated, "I am a man hater" comments, she dares challenge you to open her door. Where is the logic behind that? Either be a lady and reap the perks or open your own damn door!
TFB wrote on Sep 14, 2008 9:25 AM:Resubmission of skipped blog
Ralph Anderson (whose name suggests he will never be one to have the most private part of his anatomy occupied against his will) tries to denigrate those who think the woman should make decisions about her own body by comparing zygotes and embryos to "domestic animals" (I suspect he meant agricultural livestock, not domestic pets who, by the way, do have legal rights prohibiting cruelty). In reality, the comparison works against his point. Farm animals do have measurable EEG brain waves, biological autonomy (they are not occupying the most private part of anyone else's body) and individualized sentient experience. There is no reason anyone needs to kill them. A person can eat more healthily without a need to satisfy the unnecessary lust for artery-clogging animal fleash. Don't misunderstand, I am "pro choice" when it comes to eating meat, but I could definitely make a stronger case that "meat is murder" than that abortion is.
He further observes that a zygote, embryo or fetus is a unique human being with unique DNA. So what? Eggs and sperms are each an individual human life and each has a uniquely selected combination of DNA taken from the parent. "Life" is not the issue; personhood is. If the end of life is defined by the cessation of measurable EEG brain waves, then how personhood be defined as being before the onset of such measurable EEG brain waves (which do not commence until late in the 2nd trimester)?
Ron wrote on Sep 14, 2008 9:35 AM:You know, I'm really beginning to love this, this growing panic amoung the Obama crowd. Obviously, young Barry is not enough of a candidate to pull this thing off, and now everyone know's this messiah has no clothes.
So today, Tom Brault helps us along the path to electing Senator John McCain and Govenor Sarah Palin. I've said this before, and it's worth repeating, Govenor Palin is the only person in this race with Executive office experience. All the other's, including John McCain have been a part of the debating society that is the U.S. Senate.
Tom complains about the firing of the town's librarian. So what? That's what Executive's do. They hire & fire.
As for this investigation for alleged abuse of power. I've said this before, but if you went through the proper channels trying to get an abusive cop off the beat, and his boss, the public safety commissioner wouldn't do it. He should be fired, and she did. So what?
And really, as for pork-barrel earmarks.
Can anybody answer why Barack Obama got $3.4 million in earmarks to the son of his VP nominee Joe Biden's son, Hunter?
And then voted against the Bankruptcy bill, while Joe Biden voted for it?
Talk about an inside the beltway operator. In Govenor Palin's case, She was attempting to help her own residents. And she changed her mind about the bridge. I wonder if Barack Obama has now changed his mind about the earmarks for Hunter Biden? And really, think about it, she was initially for a piece of infrastructure to help her citizens, Hunter Biden got money from Barack Obama to squash people who filed for bankruptcy. Their only crime? They got sick. And building a bridge for citizens to get back and forth is certainly a better deal, than say.. A WoodStock Museum, as Hillary Clinton wanted. Or say.. a road built out in the desert near your scrub brush to boost your property values, as Harry Reid Did. Or even to earmark for improving wharf facilities near your rental property, as Nancy Pelosi did.
With this kind of linkage to personally benefit, I wonder if anyone can point to, in any way, this bridge would personally benefit Sarah Palin, or her family?
And I'm sorry, that Tom Brault thinks that overseeing the Alaska National Guard does not constitute the foreign policy experience. You know? That was said about Bill Clinton too. And he said he was the CIC of the Arkansas National Guard. And the Left at that time, defended it.
sdraoul wrote on Sep 14, 2008 9:36 AM:What a laugh!
Those here who whine that Sarah Palin didn't write her own speech, that, one says, the speech was written before she was selected and that the delivery was coached and modulated by "bush speech writers."
Amateurs of the world UNITE!
Politicians rarely write their own speeches. Barack Obama doesn't. He has dozens of speechwriters on payroll that write every word he utters when it is prepared in advance.
All one has to do is listen to Obama in an interview, he stumbles all over the place. He can't talk without a prepared speech.
Neither can Joe Biden. he was run out of the 1988 presidential race because he stole a speech from a British politician, That's how unprepared Biden is, he can't talk without a prepared speech and that has to someone else's because he can't seem to find anyone who can write a speech.
Professionals know better than amateurs, so, amateurs, keep your juvenile views to yourself.
Lies dont matter wrote on Sep 14, 2008 9:36 AM:I'm so tired of liberals pointing to the "lies" that John and Sarah are supposedly telling about themselves and Obama. Look, can you understand something: that stuff doesn't matter, not a bit. Did you see Sarah speak in St Paul? Have you looked at the kind of person she is? A strong, fiercely strong Christian woman. Her faith and her resolve are what this election is about. She's not a Washington insider. She's got the kind of moxie that can only come from above. She will clean up Washington (even her running mate said so on national tv), clean up the Republicans and the Democrats. She will bring values into the forefront. Life! Marriage between one man, one woman! She'll influence our pitiful, soul-destroying educational system to get right with the three R's and respect, again, for God and Country. God and Country, remember, used to be on the same side. Sarah will get this back on track. Compared to her resolve and faith, those terrorist Muslims will fall to their knees. Go Sarah!
Lucy wrote on Sep 14, 2008 9:49 AM:What a sad comment from Adrienne Brown! How can any kind of announcement of love between two EDUCATED, employed people not be a celebration? I hope she does not let her children go to school (probably home schooled), watch sports/TV or enjoy the Olympic games. Many of the people we love and revere we assume are not gays, may are. Who are we to judge? Let our children decide for themselves what is pure love. An announcement is not an endorsement. Everyone has their right to be heard. I think this is still the USA, land of the free and brave. The pursuit of happiness for all!
Alf wrote on Sep 14, 2008 9:51 AM:Yesterday "sdraoul" at 7:10PM said "There is no "troopergate" problem for Sarah Palin except in the eyes of the Democrats who are running the so-called "investigation."".
The investigation is of Palin trying to use her influence (power) to get someone fired from a non-political job solely because he angered her, not directly mind you, but because of family antagonism, he made her relative mad. HE had not violated any law or any part of his JOB description which SHOULD BE the only reasons for firing him.
THAT, "sdraoul", IS ABUSE OF POWER.
As you like to say - CASE CLOSED!
Regards, Alf.
Lucy wrote on Sep 14, 2008 9:51 AM:What a sad comment from Adrienne Brown! How can any kind of announcement of love between two EDUCATED, employed people not be a celebration? I hope she does not let her children go to school (probably home schooled), watch sports/TV or enjoy the Olympic games. Many of the people we love and revere we assume are not gays, many are. Who are we to judge? Let our children decide for themselves what is pure love. An announcement is not an endorsement. Everyone has their right to be heard. I think this is still the USA, land of the free and brave. The pursuit of happiness for all!
Ron wrote on Sep 14, 2008 9:55 AM:Ask me? Am I loving this?
YES!!!!!!!!!
Full fledged panic at all quarters by the Leftists today. LOL
It just does not get any better than this. And with the latest polls coming showing movement in congressional races, is just icing on the cake.
Historically, every year in which a republican has pulled within 3%, or within the margins, they have won those particular races.
As it appears, there's trouble in ObamaLand, and in the Barackopolis.
Now, several unnamed democrats have said {I love how they are "unnamed"}
have said they don't want Barack anywhere near them when they run.
Apparently, the Messiah's robe-tails is not working. And really, you seriously have to consider how they are handling this mentally on the otherside.
First, we were supposed to have the coronation of Hillary. Then Barack was to sweep thru with all his Majectic Glory, bringing with him the throngs of democrats on his robe-tails.
And now... it's coming un-glued.
So what do the lefties do? They attack the #2, and compare her to their #1. LOL
It's an admission that Barack does not have the experience. And as they continue to "beat up on the girl" {should have learned the lesson from Hillary}, her numbers are rising. Women now support her by 53%, across the board. And they also know, well... 69% of them know the media has been in the tank for Obama, and that ain't help neither.
What was once "in the bag", is now a bag of you-know-what, and their holding it. And congressional democrats want that bag as far away from them, as is possible. LOL
Alf wrote on Sep 14, 2008 10:02 AM:You're right, "Lies dont matter" at 9:36AM,
Palin is a "Christian woman"
IF you believe that Christ would -
deny a pregnant female abortion AND
cut back funding on a shelter for unwed mothers AND
declare that invading and occuping Iraq was for God AND
try to get his (ex?) brother-in-law fired AND
the list goes on and on.
Fortunately for all of us, the Constitution is written to PREVENT a theocracy!
Regards, Alf.
Ron wrote on Sep 14, 2008 10:10 AM:"Alf" @6:21 AM, buddy...
You've just become a victim of the left-wing blogosphere, the daily kookers, and the mover-over's.
Judith Bunin is feeding you this pap, this made up stuff that has now been debunked.
I'll post for you a letter from one such "unwed mother" program in Alaska.
QUOTE: "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 4, 2008
Contact: Deirdre A. Cronin
Executive Director
“Covenant House Alaska is a multi-service agency serving homeless and runaway youth, including teen mothers. The majority of the agency’s annual operating budget is privately raised, with no more than 10 to 15 percent of funds coming from state grants in any given year. We are grateful for the support we have received from Governor Sarah Palin, the Alaska legislature and our Congressional delegation over the years.
Despite some press reports to the contrary, our operating budget was not reduced. Our $3.9 million appropriation is directed toward a multi-year capital project and it is our understanding that the state simply opted to phase in its support for this project over several years, rather than all at once in the current budget year.”
Covenant House Alaska is Alaska’s largest private non-profit adolescent care agency serving homeless, runaway and at–risk youth between the ages of 13 and 21. With particular expertise in helping some of the most hopeless teens grow into independent, successful and productive adults." END Quote
Becareful out there, it's getting really, really nutty.
Nick wrote on Sep 14, 2008 10:15 AM:Hey "Alf" old buddy.....what did you think of the Statement of Principles for The Campaign for Libery yesterday?
That's the kind of "Change" I'm talking about.
Cheers, Nick.
Ron wrote on Sep 14, 2008 10:18 AM:I wonder if "Alf" @9:51 AM,
Would consider the following abuse of power:
1) Tazering a 10 year old.
2) Routinuly beating up his ex-wife.
3) Alleged drinking while on duty as a cop.
4) Threatening the Father of the abused woman.
5) His boss, the public safety commissioner would not relieve this particular cop from active duty.
6) On several different times, going thru the proper channels to report such abuse by this one cop went unheeded, and no action followed to remove him from his duties, or even to look into whether these allegations were true.
Had this happened to you, and the authorities did nothing. Yeah, I think you'd reacted about the same Alf.
Alf wrote on Sep 14, 2008 10:20 AM:Well, "sdraoul" at 9:36AM,
is it your assertion that the 4 people running for the 2 highest offices in the United States are merely actors delivering lines written by someone else, some "professional scriptwriter"?
So far, the "ad lib" gaffes, both by the number and seriousness, are committed more by the Republicans than the Democrats.
Both sides present foolishness regarding the "war" and the economy AND
neiter side advocates repairing the damage done to the Constitution or to Our Constitutional Rights or eliminating the extra-Constitutional powers that GWB has grabbed without serious challenge.
Regards, Alf.
shove it wrote on Sep 14, 2008 10:25 AM:Why do people like Adrienne Brown use the term "shove down our throats" when gay people try to live their lives and love openly without hiding and cringing in some Christian guilt-wracked closet? If Ms. Brown doesn't like something in our local paper, tough. It is not your personal paper Ms. Brown. I find photos of dead Afghan and Iraqi babies on the front page rather offensive, but news is news and I still know how to avert my eyes.
Alf wrote on Sep 14, 2008 10:25 AM:I suggest "Ron" at 10:18AM,
that you do something -
provide more than allegations,
you know,
like proof!
Regards, Alf.
SOLON wrote on Sep 14, 2008 10:26 AM:McCain is not a "natural born citizen" . . .
. . . of the U.S. There is quite legitimate doubt about the legality of John McCain as a "natural born citizen of the United States", as posted on Snopes.com.
Yesterday letter writer Nora la Corte falsely stated that Senator Obama was not a "natural born citizen of the United States." This sleezy, swiftboat lie has been totally refuted both by vital records and careful examination of the senator’s original birth certificate. Obama was born Aug. 4, 1961 in Hawaii, and his birth and certificate have been verified by officials of the vital statistics center.
The real question is John McCain.
The following is posted on Snopes.com/politics/McCain:
"Among the few qualifications specified in Article II, Section I of the U.S. Constitution regarding eligibility for the office of President of the United States is that the office-holder must be a 'natural born citizen of the United States.' This qualification has not previously been an issue in U.S. politics since no one so far elected to the office of president (or who otherwise served as president) was born outside of the United States. But it has been a (minor) issue so far in 2008, as the presumptive Republican presidential nominee, Senator John McCain of Arizona, was born not in the U.S. proper but in the Panama Canal Zone. (McCain's parents were themselves U.S. citizens, and at the time of his birth they lived on a military installation in the Panama Canal Zone, where his father was stationed as a U.S. Navy
officer.) If Senator McCain were deemed not to be a natural-born citizen of the United States, his name could be kept off of ballots in the 2008 presidential election, and he could be ineligible to serve as president even if won the election.
As much we'd like to dismiss this one as just another frivolous election season rumor, it's impossible to make any definitive statement about Senator McCain's presidential eligibility because the issue is a matter of law rather than a matter of fact, and the law is ambiguous." END of QUOTE on Snopes
Regardless of whether he is "legally" a natural born citizen", all reasonable citizens accept him as a citizen. This legal splitting of hairs is a waste of time and silly distraction.
Reardon wrote on Sep 14, 2008 10:26 AM:I doubt that Mr. Titus knows the Pueblo story quite as well as does Reardon, who organized the Remember the Pueblo Campaign nationally, and only health forbids his being in Vermont today where the Pueblo crew is honoring him at their 40th Reunion.
There have been many books written on the Pueblo incident, including by Reardon, and there are many more to come as new information becomes available that has been classified. There are at least 25 such books.
It is true that the ammunition was below decks, and that the guns were not manned (.50 Caliber, one fore one aft), because the ship was ordered “not to start WWIII,” and the guns were fully exposed (without armor) to FAR greater enemy weaponry – three SO2 gunboats (3’ guns) and two MIG jets – but Bucher was awaiting promised air cover. (It never arrived.) Bucher made several mistakes, but among them was anticipating help from Ships of the Line, and that is what all auxiliary ships expect.
COMNAVFOR JAPAN, who had the responsibility to provide protection for the Pueblo, was reprimanded – the only person to be reprimanded in the entire affair.
I personally witnessed crewmembers on their knees trying to reach through crowds of their own family members to touch Bucher's trousers the day after the return of the Pueblo crew at Balboa hospital.
That alone speaks for Bucher, but I was also the recipient of a note passed through me to Bucher from Shore Patrol guarded crewmembers at Bucher's Court of Inquiry: It said, "Skipper -- we started this together, we will end it together."
They did, with but two exceptions. It is called "leadership."
Apollo wrote on Sep 14, 2008 10:30 AM:Re: Ron (10:18 a.m.)
Ron cites examples of things he would consider abuse of power.
I would agree with those conclusions upon a finding of fact through due process of law.
Each of these points has been either denied or explained.
Using the appropriate protocols of due process, which a governor should certainly be able to manage, would be appropriate. Acting like a loose cannon and trying to get someone fired before any proof has been offered is a criminal offense and, yes, it is abuse of power.
Haven't this nation endured enough of that?
Alf wrote on Sep 14, 2008 10:34 AM:Well, "Ron" at 10:10AM,
the Washington post article shows a copy of the 5 mil budget with the 5 mil crossed out and 3.9 mil handwritten in (supposedly) initialed by Palin.
The shelter stating that it is grateful for the 3.9 mil does not change that it had been originally been budgeted for 5 mil.
Look at the article, I know you can because you're adept at getting, cutting and pasting.
Regards, Alf.
Alf wrote on Sep 14, 2008 10:40 AM:Yes, "Nick" at 10:15AM,
I read it yeaterday and I also read it the first time that I saw you refer to the Campaign for Liberty.
Good stuff!
That is one reason that I'm writing in Ron Paul.
Regards, Alf.
Lies dont matter wrote on Sep 14, 2008 10:41 AM:Alf, dear, you are living in the past. Don't you know who our enemies are today? First, they are the Muslim radicals. For them, it's a religious war. At times like this, only a greater strength from a greater power can defeat them, can show them what they are truly up against. Second, they are the atheists. In case you haven't noticed, Alf, atheists are also trying to take over the world and this nation. From KGB communist Putin, to the children of the Maoists, to the atheistic materialist "evolutionists", to the liberals that run our colleges and our entertainment industries, all have one thing in common: the heresy of unbelief. For this enemy, too, we need a greater power to show them what they are up against. This is a time in our history where we have a chance to regain our national soul, Alf. Which side are YOU on? Go Sarah!
SOLON wrote on Sep 14, 2008 10:44 AM:Lavish gifts to foreign nations from McBush . . .
. . . but what about the Hurricane victims? Why are we giving $32 billion in weapons and military equipment to foreigners, instead of directing help to our own people to rebuild their lives and homes after Hurricanes Faye, Gustav, Hanna and Ike? That is borrowed money, loaned by China, Saudi Arabia and other Middle Eastern kingdoms. We do not have $32 billion in our treasury to begin with, and should not borrow money to give to foreigners who are not our friends.
If we must borrow money, it must first be used first for our own citizens in desperate need.
Thank you, Marlowe for bringing up this fact (8:02 AM). I also saw that report about this $32 billion for to arm foreigners for war. America and our citizens come first.
ENOUGH !! Turn this country around. Vote these scoundrel and their party out!
Boat wrote on Sep 14, 2008 10:53 AM:Re: The USS Pueblo. Every once in awhile some Monday morning John Paul Jones or Stephen Decatur opines about what should have happened in this unfortunate incident.
But, lets look at the opposing sides for a moment, like they do on those PBS programs. On the one hand you have the USS Pueblo, she was exactly like the ship in "Mr. Roberts," with a top speed of about nine knots & armed with two fifty caliber machine guns & a few rifles & pistols. Then you had the North Koreans who had several PT Boats, a larger patrol craft & four to eight Mig jets. The Pueblo's machine guns were under tarps that had frozen in place making them useless. On top of everything else, this took place in international waters.
The letter writer, Mr. Titus, is incorrect when he says that "no attempt" was made to man them. The one casualty suffered by the Pueblo was a crewman who was attempting to remove a tarp from one of the guns. He was cut down by machine gun fire.
The Pueblo called for help repeatedly on all channels, including fleet common, to no avail, despite the fact that the Air Force kept F-4s on standby in South Korea. In an account that I read in Naval History magazine the Enterprise sortied out of Japan so fast in response that she left many crewmembers behind. However, they received a message, allegedly from LBJ himself, to go back to Japan. No satisfactory explanation has ever been given for the lack of support for the mission in general or the Pueblo in particular. The real crime is that both the commanders of the Pueblo & the Liberty were assured that they would have all the support that they would need. They & their crews were let down big time.
There have been those who have said that Cdr. Bucher should have fired off one shot from a handgun in token resistance. This is a vestige of the days of sail when a captain would fire one cannon shot before surrendering to overwhelming odds. The North Koreans are not known for their chivalry & would have most likely have killed him. Thus his crew would have been deprived of his exemplary leadership throughout their ordeal in captivity.
The Pueblo & the Liberty were converted from cargo ships to "spy ships" & were wholly unsuited to defend themselves. At least the USS Maddox, a destroyer, which was on a similar type mission in the Gulf of Tonkin in 1964 was much better able to defend itself against a similar attack.
But, in the end, someone had to pay for the only U.S. Navy ship to be boarded & taken since the Civil War. That someone turned out to be Cdr. Bucher. Nice reward after keeping his men alive for eleven months of brutal captivity.
hardtack wrote on Sep 14, 2008 11:03 AM:Hey, folks: Forget Sarah Palin. Forget the flip-flops of the candidates. Forget their lack of experience. The election will swing on one thing : How many people believe Santa Clause resides at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20500.
I believe the Democrats have that majority wrapped up – but it’s close.
Baited breath wrote on Sep 14, 2008 11:13 AM:Is The Prophet ready to grace us with his predictions on the eventual outcomes of the Congressional and Presidential races?
Alf wrote on Sep 14, 2008 11:19 AM:Sorry, "Lies dont matter" at 10:41AM,
our biggest enemies today, this very minute ARE GWB and the Congress that keeps giving him money and powers far beyond what the Constitution allows.
Did "Muslim radicals" set up Guantanamo?
Did "Muslim radicals" seek the passage of the USA Patriot Act, the single most Constitution-violating Act in history that I know of?
Did "Muslim radicals" advocate torture of "enemy combatants"?
Did "Muslim radicals" go to Iraq with "Shock and Awe"?
Did "Muslim radicals" continue to occupy Iraq at the expense of the deaths of over 4,100 American Troops and almost a trillion dollars?
Is it a "Muslim radical" that is in the office of the president of the U.S.?
Did "Muslim radicals" wiretap American Citizens without warrants?
Wake up and watch GWB (and McGWB if elected) flush the Constitution and your Constitutional Rights down the toilet.
Regards, Alf.
Alf wrote on Sep 14, 2008 11:24 AM:One more thing, "Lies dont matter" at 10:41AM,
I care more about our Constitution than a "national soul".
IU care about Constitutional Rights more than your Constitution-violating in word and spirit theocracy-seeking, budget-busting, military abusing garbage that is offered by Republicans.
The Democrats ain't far behind.
Regards, Alf.
OBAMA MAMA wrote on Sep 14, 2008 11:30 AM:The world-traveled Sarah Palin . . .
. . . is documented. She is for real. She has already traveled to Mexico, Canada, and even to Kuwait and Germany. This makes her a well-traveled foreign expert, far more traveled than GW Bush, who had never been beyond Mexico and Canada before he took office. She far and away more traveled than Bush, and she was not even running to be President.
Furthermore, Palin, through the process of spiritual osmosis, has been to Russsia, by peering over from one of the Aleutian islands into the distant shore of Russia.
Now comes the revelation of another of her osmosis travels, this time to Iraq. Seems she was in Kuwait last year, and, being close to the border, peered over into Iraq, transmuting her into an expert on Iraqi issues, acquire by the mysterious miracle of osmosis. It works, you know. Stand close to a uranium pit, and with a little trance, osmosis will begin to make you glow with radiation. You can even become a nu-culer expert.
On Saturday, a Palin aide told The Associated Press the governor had actually traveled one-quarter mile into Iraq itself during her July 2007 trip.
That appears to contradict The Boston Globe, which reported Saturday that McCain-Palin aides had twice revised their description of Palin's visit to Iraq.
The Globe said unnamed aides initially explained that Palin had visited a "military outpost" inside Iraq. The Globe said campaign aides and members of the Alaska National Guard subsequently explained that she did not venture beyond the Kuwait border when she visited the Khabari Alawazem Crossing on July 25, 2007. Lt. Col. Dave Osborn, commander of the 3d Battalion, 207th Infantry of the Alaska National Guard, who was in charge of the 570 local troops serving in Kuwait and Iraq, said Palin did not cross in Iraq.
The central point here is, it does not matter whether Palin actually set foot inside Iraq. All she has to do is peer over the border and use Osmosis to understand the complexities of Iraq.
I once visited Four Corners, and with just 20 steps visited Colorado, Arizona, New Mexico and Utah, all in just a few seconds. My visit to these 4 states, however, was real. I did not use Palinian osmosis. I actually set foot inside these 4 states. I cast no aspersions on osmosis, however. I belie