Enduring Freedom

“Enduring Freedom” presents social and political commentary by John Rivard, previously published on the "Editorial" page of The Texas Polka News.  Comments are welcome.  

*************************************************************************************

Stop the Insanity

Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi has rammed the “Obamacare” health control bill through the House of Representatives by a close vote of 220 to 215, with 39 Democrats joining the Republicans in opposition to a bill that will ruin our health care system.  The brave action by 39 Democrats (defying    Pelosi) means that opposition to the bill is clearly bi-partisan!  Remarkable, and telling!

But now the action shifts to the Senate, which will be under strong pressure to pass a similar bill before the end of the year.  If passed, the resulting legislation will fundamentally alter our Republic by putting the government in control of one-sixth of our economy, and in so doing, your health care.

Taking over health care is Obama’s top priority, but right behind is a huge new tax on carbon emissions known as “cap and trade.”  The idea is to generate hundreds of billions of dollars in new tax revenue by penalizing the emission of carbon.  Energy costs (gas, electricity) will increase  dramatically as a result, and the already struggling economy will take another huge hit.  The House is  already developing this legislation. 

Lurking behind health care and “cap & trade” are immigration reform (amnesty) and “card check” legislation to help unions. 

Meanwhile, we continue to worship the false God of diversity, and will not confront terrorism, or even call it what it is!

Madness!  Insane!

How can we help stop the insanity?

Stay informed.  Listen to talk radio.  Watch Fox News on TV.  Subscribe to the Washington Times (a weekly).  Understand that anything you hear on the major networks and most of the cable channels has a liberal, pro-Obama spin. 

Speak out.  Your opinion has merit.  Look for opportunities in every discussion to voice your concerns about the direction this country is heading. Send new e-mails.

Participate in the political process.  Know your elected officials.  The names and phone numbers of your two U.S. Senators and your Congressional Representative  should be posted by your phone.  Use the national numbers, or better yet, the local  offices, where staff are often more receptive to your calls.  Identify yourself as a voting constituent. Limit each call to a single issue, and keep it simple as respectful.  But call on every issue!  Don’t know your reps?  See www.visi.com/juan/congress.

Support conservative candidates.

Vote for and contribute money to candidates of any party who stand for traditional conservative fiscal and social values.

Support conservative causes.  There are many organizations working to preserve our nation, our Constitution, and free enterprise.  The Leadership Institute is one.  Check it out at www.leadershipinstitute.org.

 Become a part of the “tea party” movement.  This non-partisan citizen-led effort is an excellent way to show your concern.  Stand up and stand out!  Gather with people who think like you.  Send a message to the media and legislators.  Just Google “Tea Party” for info on activities near you.  Be a 2010 minute-man!

 *************************************************************************************

Obamacare…Does it Make Sense?

The Democrat-controlled Congress is bulldozing its way to passing Obamacare.  The question is, does it make sense?  Here’s a few questions to consider.

Does it make sense to turn over one-sixth of the nation’s economy to federal government control?  What federal government program (exclusive of the finest military in the world) gives us confidence that the government can run anything well?

Does it make sense to do this all in the name of improving health care, when this nation already has the best health care system in the world, and nobody is actually deprived of health care (including the indigent, uninsured and even illegal aliens)? 

Does it make sense that Medicare payments to providers (doctors, clinics and hospitals) can be reduced by $500 billion as the legislation does without rationing (cutting back on) your health care?

Folks, look at your Medicare statements, and see how little the health care providers (doctors, etc.) are paid right now in proportion to their bills!  Does it make sense that these payments can be reduced further (as proposed) without existing doctors leaving the profession, and potential new doctors deciding not to enter medicine?

Does it make sense that as these doctors are either not replaced or replaced by ill-trained foreigners that your health care will not suffer?

Does it make sense to pretend that you are reforming health care without doing anything to implement tort reform (as we successfully did in Texas) to limit outrageous lawsuits and the huge liability insurance costs they impose? 

Does it make sense that all Medicare Advantage Plans (the plans that many seniors have because they are far superior to straight Medicare) can be eliminated (as the bill requires) without adversely affecting the health care of those under these plans?

Does it make sense that the cost estimates for the Democrat-sponsored legislation are based on conceptual language (rather than an actual bill), for the purposes of deliberately understating the costs?

Does it make sense that the estimated increased income from taxing the so called “Cadillac” health plans can be projected to continue indefinitely (as the cost estimate does), when those plans will disappear because employers will stop the plans, rather than pay the high tax?

Does it make sense that uninsured persons can be forced to buy health insurance as the legislation requires? 

Does it make sense to credit the legislation with recovering billions in fraud, when that recovery should be going on now?

Does it make sense that we are told Obamacare is urgent, when it won’t take effect until 2013, after the 2012 elections? 

These are just a few of the questions for you to consider.  If they don’t make sense, then you should be opposing Obamacare by voice, pen and public opposition. 

Now!  Before it’s too late!

 ****************************************************************************************

Can Common Sense Save Our Republic?

Our Republic is in jeopardy.  We have elected a President who campaigned on a platform to “fundamentally change” our nation.  Now, with the help of large Democrat majorities in Congress and the support of the “mainstream” media, he is on the way to changing our Republic.  That change is demonstrated by the people that Obama is appointing to the “Czar” positions, the intent to gain control over every aspect of our life through government controlled health care, and the plan to tax energy (so-called “Cap and trade legislation) to finance the socializing of America. 

The question is, will the common-sense Americans allow all this to happen?

Common sense Americans have long been the backbone and strength of our nation.  Thomas Paine’s booklet “Common Sense” helped unite the colonies and bring forth a new nation.  This ultimately resulted in the Constitution that has made this nation the greatest force for the evolution of freedom in the history of man.  Now we again are in need of people with common sense.

You’re out there!  We see you at dances.  You’re reading this column right now.  You’re hard working, God-fearing people who love this nation, the Constitution, and the rule of law.   You’re patriotic.  Many of you have served the nation in military, or had family members make the ultimate sacrifice.  You believe in God, go to work, do your job, pay your taxes, and do the best that you can.  You basically believe that America is a good nation that does not need to be “fundamentally changed.”  You have “common sense.”

Now I ask you to apply your common sense to these questions.

Does it make sense that Obama has named 32 “Czars” (special assistants) reporting to him to manage various programs, when previous Presidents had only several such positions?  Does it make sense that none of these are subject to the “advise and consent” approval of Congress?  Does it make sense that at least one of these (Van Jones) is an admitted communist intent on fundamentally changing this nation?  (Van Jones resigned, a victory for common sense.)

In health care, does it make sense that we can cover 30 million more people with insurance, continue our existing coverage, and cover pre-existing conditions without substantially increasing costs and rationing health care to seniors?

In energy, does it make sense that we can introduce the largest single tax in American history in the form of a “carbon tax” and not destroy our economy in the process, when that economy is already precarious and the national debt out of control?

On smaller (but symbolic) matters, does it make sense that Michelle Obama has 22 special assistants (paid from $45,000 to $172,000 each at taxpayer expense), when  Hillary had three; Jackie Kennedy one; and Laura Bush one?  Did we elect a Queen?

Will you use your common sense to help save our Republic?

*************************************************************************************

Health Care Costs

Obama and the Democrat leadership in Congress are attempting to “change” us into a socialist nation by taking over the entire health care industry.  The government that  controls health care, control our lives!  I strongly oppose their efforts to do so.  My reasons were outlined in the ObamaCare column below.  I will continue to oppose them.  

But it is also my duty to have an alternative plan.  Even though we have the best health care system in the world and in the history of mankind, it is costly.  Health care costs are out of control, and the increase in costs is unsustainable.  Something must be done to control costs.  Here’s a plan.  The plan keeps all the major elements of the current system,  but uses market forces and common sense cost cutting methods to reduce spending.  Here’s how.

Tort Reform:  Enact national legislation to reduce outrageous litigation awards, and thereby reduce the wasteful expense of malpractice insurance.  Texas was a haven for medical lawsuits, until we passed tort reform several years ago.  The beneficial effect has been significant. 

Front end fees:   Use “market forces” to reduce unnecessary doctor visits by requiring a universal front-end fee of perhaps $25 paid out of pocket at the time of the doctor visit.  This will reduce the number of unnecessary doctor visits and enhances the doctors cash flow.  Put this into effect for all Medicare coverage immediately, and let employer insurance plans follow suit.

Fraud control:  Root out fraud by establishing a National Task Force to  prosecute fraud in Medicare and Medicaid programs.  Put some real teeth into it! 

Control Our Borders:  Reduce the cost drain of illegal immigrants on our health care system by controlling our borders.

Catastrophic insurance:  Mandate that all employed persons without employer plans or private insurance carry catastrophic health insurance provided by the private sector or the government.  Unemployed persons not eligible for Medicare would also be required to carry this insurance, premiums deducted from their “earned income credits.” 

Exclusions:  Exclude from Medicare coverage all of the following:  Cosmetic surgeries (except those to correct congenital deformities or problems resulting from an injury or another disease); all “male enhancement” drugs and therapies; sex change operations or treatments; motorized scooters for the aging; and unproven treatment technologies.   Put into effect through Medicare, and let employer insurance plans follow suit at their own pace. 

Enhancing hospice and home care for the terminally ill:  Establish incentives to minimize the costs (and wasted resources) of continuing every possible treatment to prolong life, or of caring for the terminally ill in hospitals.  For example, extend the current six-month hospice limit to one year for those voluntarily choosing (in consultation with their own physician) to die with dignity instead of continuing all possible treatments or staying in hospitals. 

These changes would bring significant savings to our health care system, without destroying it for the sake of government control of our lives.  They should be tried. 

What’s your plan?

 *************************************************************************************

ObamaCare

Folks, I hope you are aware that our government is leading us pell-mell to socialized healthcare.  Socialized health care will cost trillions, break a system that is currently working, and result in health care rationing.  To understand why, let’s begin with a review of our health care system.

We have the best health care system in the world and in the history of mankind.  The best doctors, the best facilities, the best technology.  It is available to all.  But it is costly.  Here’s how the costs are covered.

Insurance through employment covers most workers and their families. The costs are shared between the employer and the employees.  The COBRA plan provides for health care coverage between jobs.  Private insurance is available in a competitive market for those w/o employers.  Veterans are assured health care.  Medicare covers all seniors, and the permanently disabled of all ages.  Medicaid covers all those of limited means not eligible for Medicare.  SCHIP provides coverage for children not otherwise eligible for insurance.  Health care is provided to anyone presenting at an emergency room.  Costs are borne by the taxpayer (hospital district taxes) or absorbed by those who pay via insurance. 

The bottom line is that no one is denied medical care.  Not even illegal aliens!  The system is complex, but it is not broken!

Most importantly, the current system does not include rationing (except for organ  transplants, which are donor limited).  If we need the bypass, the hip, the knee, the chemo and radiation we can get it, when we need it.  End of life decisions are made between the family and the treating physician.

 But the system is costly, the result of having available the best doctors, the best facilities, the best technology, and no protection from outrageous lawsuits.  These costs are straining the finances of the current system.  And major costs are incurred in our final six months, by some estimates 30-50% of our total lifetime medical costs!

In nations where health care is already nationalized, this is handled by rationing health care.  Britain’s National Health Care Service can deny treatments it deems not cost-effective, and if you’re old or infirm, the cost effectiveness of treating you plummets.  In Canada, they do it by queuing.  You can wait forever for the hip, the knee, or the chemo.  Until you no longer need it!

But this is the system to which we are moving.  This movement is based on the false claim that we must provide insurance coverage for the estimated 45 million uninsured in this nation.  This estimate is bogus for many reasons.  More importantly, lack of insurance doesn’t equate to lack of health care, as pointed out above.  The “uninsured” argument just doesn’t wash.  Don’t fall for it!

Yet our government is rushing us towards providing a “public option” or “single payer” system run by the federal government.  Why?  To gain federal government control of health care, and hence gain control of health care costs.  How?  By rationing health care.  Better “get hip” folks.  While you can!

Alternatively, call your reps at 1-800-965-4701. You’ll need the name of your reps.  

*************************************************************************************

 America

The liberal left and the media are hell-bent on convincing us that the United States is a flawed - yes even evil - country.  TV documentaries show us the personal flaws of our nation’s founders,  rather than what they accomplished in establishing the greatest nation in the history of the world.  Elementary school students are taught what’s wrong with our country, rather than what’s right.  Liberal and socialist college professors indoctrinate their students on the evil of capitalism.  Obama apologizes for the U.S. around the world.  Their mission is to convince us that we are bad, and therefore must change, to a more socialistic society.

Well folks, I’m not buying it!  And since July 4 is the celebration of our Independence, this editorial is dedicated to reaffirming what’s right about America!

Our Constitution is what’s right about America.  The Representative Republic established by our Constitution has allowed us to build a nation that is the model for freedom.  Under this Constitution and the Bill of Rights, we have prospered, established a standard of living unequaled in the history of the world, survived a great Civil War, lawfully eliminated slavery and given everyone the right to vote, survived two great world wars and emerged as the economic savior of the free world after WWII. 

The rule of law is what’s right about America.  Laws created by our local, state and federal governments govern our society, adjudicated by our system of courts.  This means that the playing field is leveled, and predictable, with protections against arbitrary manipulation.

Capitalism is what’s right about America.  Freed by the Constitution of despotic control by the federal government, capitalism has unleashed the creativity of the millions of Americans to seek to better themselves.  Capitalism provides the promise that with hard work it is possible to succeed, regardless of your station in life.  Capitalism inspires people to better themselves.  It is the root of the American Dream.  It is a primary source of our work ethic (since work is rewarded).

Our Judeo-Christian heritage is what’s right about America.  It has provided a moral compass for the nation since 1776.  While the Constitution guarantees that there will be no established religion, a belief and reliance in God was strongly evident in our founding fathers; it has continued to guide the nation. 

Charity is what’s right about America.  We are a giving people.  We give to support a legion of domestic agencies that care for the poor, fight diseases, treat the ill, feed the hungry, support education, and much more.  We give foreign aid in massive amounts, both through our regular government programs and in response to natural or man-made catastrophes.  

These are among the reasons that America is both good, and great.

This nation has allowed this rural farm boy from Wisconsin to get an education, work my way through college, repay my school loans, marry and raise a family in freedom, and become financially sound by living below my means and saving. My story is typical.  It’s why I love America.  What’s your story?

 *************************************************************************************

What's a Conservative to Do?

I am a conservative.  Socially and fiscally.  Therefore I am appalled as our nation lurches left under President Obama and the Democratically-controlled Congress. 

I am appalled by the immense deficit spending under the guise of stimulus, while Obama uses the “crisis” to take federal control of our economy by destroying the free enterprise system.  I am appalled by the intent of Obama to drive up the cost of energy (your gas and electrical bills) by taxing carbon based energy sources out of existence.  I am appalled by Obama’s intent force us into socialized medicine, to increase the power of unions with “card-check” legislation, to remove all restrictions on abortion, to increase gun control and make ammunition difficult to obtain, to silence conservative talk radio, to promote homosexuality under the guise of “political correctness,” and to weaken our national defense by reducing the defense budget (while increasing spending everywhere else). 

Obama promised change, and pardner, we’re getting it.  It’s frightening!  So what’s a conservative to do?

Enlist now in the conservative cause!  Answer the call to protect our freedoms, just as Minutemen answered the call to establish those freedoms.  Embrace your duty to oppose this “change” to our nation.  Here’s how.

Stay informed.  Listen to talk radio.  Watch Fox News on TV.  Subscribe to the Washington Times ( a weekly).  Understand that if you hear it on any of the major networks and most of the cable channels that it has a liberal, pro-Obama spin. 

Speak out.  Your opinion has merit.  You have the right, and the duty, to use your opinion to influence others.  Look for opportunities in every discussion to introduce your concerns about the direction of “change” in this country, and your concerns. Also, speak out via e-mail. Take part in “tea parties.”

Participate in the political process.  You are an important part of the political process.  Know your elected officials.  The names and phone numbers of your two U.S. Senators and your Congressional Representative  should be posted by your phone.  Use the national numbers, or better yet, the local offices, where staff are often more receptive to your calls.  Identify yourself as a voting constituent. Limit each call to a single issue, and keep it simple.  But call on every issue! Express your concern, and ask specifically that your representative support your position.  Identify your elected state officials too, and post their names and numbers by your phone.  Call them on state issues that are important to the conservative cause.

Support conservative candidates.    Help keep the Republican Party true to the conservative ideology of Ronald Reagan.

Support conservative causes.  There are many organizations working to preserve our nation, our Constitution, and free enterprise.  The Leadership Institute is one. 

And finally, do more that forward indignant e-mails to other conservative.  It’s a start, but not enough!  Do all of the above.   Conservatives, this is our call to duty! 

*************************************************************************************

The First 85 Days!

       In mid-April we marked 85 days of Obama.  Let’s see what he has accomplished.  

Cabinet:  Obama has named pro-abortion, mostly pro-homosexual individuals to lead the various Departments of Government.  This was to be expected, a direct result of the Democrats winning the election.  What wasn’t expected was that three of the top designees had substantial issues with not paying their taxes, and others withdrew from consideration during the vetting process.  Do any of the elite Democrats pay their taxes?

Socialism:  In his campaign, Obama spoke about redistributing wealth,  a defining principle of socialism. He is making progress, first by appointments of actual socialists (Carol Browner, Lisa Jackson), but more importantly by taking over control of banks under the guise of economic stimulus (per Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel’s assertion that “You never want to waste a good crisis.”).  The large banks forced to take the bailout money are beginning to learn how the Government will run their business, while smaller banks, watching what is happening, are trying to back out (to their credit).  The takeover of General Motors is the best example, with GM now being forced into an Obama-directed bankruptcy, which will be designed to protect the union workers.  Then at the G20 meeting in Europe, he agreed to an international board with authority to intervene in U.S. corporations by dictating executive compensation and approving or disapproving business management decisions.   This is the end of capitalism!

National Security:  Obama has weakened National Security by acting to close Guantanamo (which will release many combatants); announcing that there is no more “War on Terror,” (but rather “Overseas Contingency Operations”);  dismissing the charges against the mastermind of the “Cole bombing;”  announcing via Homeland Security head Janet Napolitano that the Canadian border is our biggest concern (not the Mexican border).   This while blaming the US for the Mexican border problems by focusing on stopping the flow of money (and allegedly guns) from the US into Mexico.  Meanwhile, raids on US employers of illegal immigrants have been effectively stopped.  Now he has re-opened travel and flow of money into socialist Cuba (after members of the Black Caucus visited Castro and praised him).  He took no effective action when North Korea launched (tested) their intermediate range missile (the United Nations “statement” still pending probably has North Korea really concerned!)  He has announced his intention to have dialogue with Iran with no pre-conditions about their drive to develop nuclear weapons. 

Peace through Popularity:  On his foreign trip, Obama apologized repeatedly for the U.S. and got nothing in return!  

Still to come:  Eliminating the “conscience clause” that protects pro-life medical personnel; Card Check to eliminate the secret ballot in union elections; “cap & trade” legislation to limit carbon emissions; and major deficit spending on health care, global warming and education.  And it’s only 85 days! 

************************************************************************************

Keep the Change

Obama promised change.  And pardner, we’re getting it!

Almost all Americans will agree that the economy is our big problem.  Perhaps even a crisis as the stock market has plummeted since Obama took office, and the nation’s wealth has suffered a staggering blow. 

Yet Obama is hell-bent on his plan to use the economic crisis as a tool to re-make the nation in accord with his socialistic far left views.  His Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel has said it.  "You never want a serious crisis to go to waste."

First, let’s review.  The nation is in a serious economic crisis, the root of which is the home mortgage and banking mess triggered by the drive for “affordable housing” started by Carter and Clinton.  This resulted in Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac creating “zero down” and “interest-only” mortgage loans for people who could not afford them.  The Bush Administration and the Republican Congress tried time and again in the period 2001-2007 to regulate Fannie Mae & Freddy Mac, and time and again were stopped by Democrats.    The bubble burst last fall, with the failure of banks, the drying up of credit, and the precipitation of a serious recession. 

Meanwhile, Obama campaigned on “hope & change” and was elected. 

But the immediate problem is fixing the financial institutions.  A common sense analogy helps.  The banking system is to our economy as electricity is to our lifestyle.  Electricity has become essential to our lives.    In like manner, banks provide the credit flow that is essential for all enterprise.  The banks must be fixed.  We must keep the lights on!

Although the first bailout package under Bush and the new Democratic Congress was intended to bail out banks and deal with the mortgage crisis, implementation has been delayed.  We don’t yet have the lights on!

Nevertheless, Obama and the Democratic Congress passed the $780 billion “stimulous” bill Feb. 13 to spend our way to prosperity (see March editorial).  On Mar. 11 they passed the $400 billion discretionary budget bill, packed with pork.  In spite of the crisis, Obama is proceeding with his plans to change America in the three major areas of energy, health care, education.  Certainly these deserve attention.  But there is no agreement on how!  Conservatives and liberals have diametrically opposed ideas. 

Obama’s plans in these three broad areas will be extremely leftist, and hugely expensive.  For example, his push for new green energy while crippling the production of carbon-based energy (natural gas, oil and coal) with so called “cap & trade” regulations will cost trillions, and hamstring our nation.  Yet he has the audacity to say that it will save money!  He is making the same ridiculous claim about his health care and education proposals.  It is a total fabrication. 

Even more outrageous, he asserts that the economic crisis was caused by problems in energy, health care and education.  Again, a total fabrication!  But he doesn’t want to waste the crisis, because he wants to change the nation.   For my part, he can keep the change!

 *************************************************************************************

In-Debted!

Congress enacted President Obama’s $800 billion stimulus (spendulous) bill, committing the nation to huge deficit spending that will haunt us for decades to come.  We are all in-debted! 

Fittingly, the massive spending bill was passed on Friday the 13th!  Pretty scary!  The bill passed in the House without a single Republican vote in favor (plus seven Democrats voting with Republicans against).  It passed in the Senate with three liberal Republicans joining all the Democrats, providing the magic 60 votes needed to override Republican objections.  So it is a Democrat bill.  It is Obama’s bill.  We are all in-debted!

Before explaining why this bill is so bad, let’s review some economic facts.

First, it is a fact that Obama inherited the economic crisis.  It is not of his making.

Second, while the causes of the economic crisis are many, the principal cause is the home loan debacle, a direct result of legislation and programs enacted under Presidents Carter and Clinton to make homes “affordable” to those that couldn’t afford them.  The result was Fannie Mae & Freddie Mac, “zero down” and "interest-only” loans, and foreclosures, refusal of the Democrats to regulate the Government-sponsored loans in spite of repeated efforts to do so by the Republicans, and finally the bursting of the bubble last fall triggering economic chaos. 

Third, the current recession is not yet as bad as the Carter-caused recession of 1982, which Reagan overcame with tax cuts, not with spending!

Fourth, Japan tried to come out of their decade long recession with massive government spending programs, and failed!

Fifth, the cure for the Great Depression was WWII, not the great government spending make-work programs of FDR in 1933-39, which most economists believe prolonged the depression.

So history says that government spending doesn’t work!  Yet the major part (~$500 billion) of the stimulus bill is spending. It’s the biggest spending spree in the history of mankind, a bill over 1000 pages long, drafted in back rooms, passed in a few days without hearings, with most Congressman not even having time to read the bill.  In this accelerated process, Obama and the Democrat leaders ran roughshod over Obama’s pledge to have an open and transparent administration.  Surprise!

I could rail against “details,” such as $2 billion for ACORN, and $8 billion for Sen. Reid’s pet project of a “supertrain” from Disneyland to Las Vegas (no pork, eh?), but there isn’t space.  The ~$500 billion spending simply staggers the mind!  Sen. McCain has called it “generational theft,” passing a huge debt onto subsequent generations. 

What do I support?  I support the proven remedy of tax cuts, unleashing the economic dynamo of American ingenuity and free enterprise.  I support extension of the Bush tax cuts.  I support the 12 point plan outlined by Newt Gingrich at www.americansolutions.com.  I support what has worked in the past! 

But we are on a spending spree.  And in-debted to Obama. 

*************************************************************************************

Leftward Ho!

Elections have consequences! 

The people have spoken, and elected a Democrat President and a Legislature controlled by Democrats.  So let the march to the political left begin.

There is little good that can be said about the deepening recession that this nation (and the whole world) is in.  It will mean increasing unemployment, really hard times for those who lose their jobs, financial jitters for everyone, huge budget deficits (federal and state), and possibly severe inflation as the deficit spending kicks in without a real increase in the wealth of the nation. 

But the recession requires that President Obama and the Democrat Congress address the economy first, delaying some of the liberal domestic programs they had hoped to make top priority.  This could be a good thing.  What are some of those programs?  

• Increasing taxes by allowing the Bush tax cuts to expire, plus increasing taxes on capital gains, estates and higher income people.  Increasing taxes is always a bad economic idea because it stifles the economy, extends recessions and results in reduced government revenues over the long run.  It is true that some will have their taxes lowered, even if they are not paying income taxes.

• Going green on energy, by restricting the use of all fossil fuels (oil, gas, coal) with carbon emission legislation.

• Increasing the power of unions by passing “card check” to take away the secret ballot in all elections to unionize.

• Passing Universal Health Care, at huge cost, when nobody in this country goes without health care now.

• Removing all restrictions on abortion, by passing the “Freedom of Choice Act.”

• Increasing gun control, and/or restrictions on buying and keeping ammunition, in defiance of the 2nd Amendment.

• Silencing conservative talk radio   under the guise of the “fairness doctrine.”

• Promoting homosexuality under the guise of anti-discrimination.

         I won’t mind waiting for these programs.  Meanwhile, think about this.

Alexander Fraser Tyler, a professor at Scotland’s Edinburgh University writing at the time of the American Revolution, made this statement on the “Cycle Of Democracy.”  

A democracy cannot exist as a permanent form of government.  It can only exist until the voters discover that they can vote themselves largesse (excessive benefits) from the public treasury.  From that moment on, the majority always votes for the candidates promising them the most benefits from the public treasury, with the result that a democracy always collapses over loose fiscal policy, always followed by a dictatorship.

The average age of the world’s great civilizations has been 200 years.  These nations have progressed through this sequence:  From bondage to spiritual faith; from spiritual faith to great courage; from courage to liberty; from liberty to abundance; from abundance to selfishness; from selfishness to complacency; from complacency to apathy; from apathy to dependence; from dependence back into bondage.”

Folks, where do you think we are on the Cycle of Democracy? 

 *************************************************************************************

Economic Crisis II

Our nation is in an economic crisis.  We are in a recession of unknown but serious scope.  Financial pain and sacrifice seem certain.  I examined the causes in the November editorial, placing the primary blame on the government programs and pressures to make “affordable housing” available to all, including those that could not afford it.  We did this with absurd “zero-down” and “interest-only” loans.  The primary enablers were Democratic Congressmen, the Government-sponsored entities (GSE’s) Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, and personal & corporate greed among those running the GSE’s and the banks.  It all came tumbling down, and triggered economic chaos.

Now we are attempting to “fix it” with enormous government bailouts, using money that we don’t have, mortgaging our future.   It’s the Economic Crisis, Part II!  Worse yet, we are on the verge of replacing our system of capitalism with a government-managed system.  Folks, that’s called socialism, and I’m against it!  I’m against it because I believe in the capitalistic system.  This Nation became great under it.  Conversely, socialism is a failed experiment that destroys incentive and hamstrings economic endeavors.

Yet we are plunging headlong into socialism, with the Federal government becoming part owners and managers of major businesses.  If this occurred in another country, we’d call it “nationalization.”   Because it’s happening here, we call it a “bailout.”

Most of us don’t understand the world of high finance.  But we do have common sense.  In times like this we should use it!

I understand the concept behind bailing out the major financial institutions.  A common sense analogy helps.  The banking system is to our economy as electricity is to our lifestyle.  Electricity has become essential to our lives.  It powers our homes, our factories and our computers.  It is our primary utility.  In like manner, our system of banks provide the credit flow that is the essential engine for all enterprise.  The banks are the utility of all enterprise!  And so, I reluctantly support the Government (taxpayer) rescue of the major financial institutions.  We must keep the lights on!

But not so for other enterprises (public or private).  They must be allowed to fail.  States and cities cannot come to Federal government (us) to bail out their unwillingness to discipline their spending.  

Industries that will not change their business models to survive must not be rewarded by propping them up falsely.  The mechanism for “successful failure” is called Chapter 11 bankruptcy, and it works!  (Continental Airlines has twice successfully emerged from bankruptcy).

Specifically, the Big Three automakers must be allowed to go into bankruptcy, restructure their agreements with the United Auto Workers, and become profitable.  Overpaid executives and UAW members being paid not to work must stop.  After all, Toyota and Honda are successful in the U.S.  Why not Detroit?  Do we have the will to withstand the UAW?  Or do we default to socialism?

 *************************************************************************************

The First Right

“And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger, because there was no room for him in the inn.”  Luke 2:7

There have been over 47 million abortions in the 35 years since the U.S. Supreme Court legalized abortion.  This number dwarfs the six million victims of Hitler’s “final solution.”  If 47 million is hard to envision, try 3500 per day, or about 12 little lives terminated in the five minutes it will take you to read (and think about) this column. 

Yet we as a nation condone it, either denying the obvious biological fact that it is a human life, or worse yet, knowing that it is life, and not caring!  That’s the really frightening part, especially for seniors watching new generations take control.  They have been taught that life does not matter.  These are the people who will govern us as we age.

While any abortion takes a human life, partial birth abortion is particularly reprehensible.   A nearly developed baby is extracted feet first, leaving the head in the birth canal so that the child is not “born.”  Then the baby  is intentionally killed by inserting scissors into the brain, and sucking out the brain matter with a catheter.

In the 1990’s, Congress twice passed laws prohibiting partial birth abortion.  In keeping with the Democratic Party pro-abortion platform (then and now), Clinton vetoed the legislation.  In 2003, Congress again passed the ban on partial birth abortion, and Pres. Bush enthusiastically signed it.  It was upheld by the Supreme Court in 2007 and partial birth abortion is now banned.

Some progress was also made at the state levels, where laws to require parental notification, ultrasounds, and other reasonable restrictions have been enacted.

But all this will change under Obama and the Democrat-controlled Congress.  Obama has pledged that one of his top priorities will be to remove all restrictions on abortion!  Specifically, Congress will pass (and Obama will sign) the so called “Freedom of Choice Act.”   It will essentially prohibit all federal or state laws that in any way hinder a woman’s “right” to terminate a pregnancy after fetal viability when necessary to protect the life or health of the woman.  Since “health” will be defined to include mental health, abortion - in all of its forms and right up to the moment of birth -  will become the law of the land!  The law is likely to be interpreted that doctors who now choose not to perform abortions will be required to do so.  Many believe that religious-based hospitals (Catholic and more) that decide not to perform abortions may lose all federal funding.

Obama is also committed to repealing the Hyde Amendment, which is the law prohibiting federal funding of abortions.   Elections have consequences.  Obama will be the most pro-abortion President in history, and the Pelosi-led Democrat Congress will eagerly support him.

Will God continue to bless a nation that aborts its young?   

************************************************************************************

The Economic Crisis

Our nation is in an economic crisis.  We are entering a recession of unknown but serious scope.  Financial pain and sacrifice seem certain.  As we go to the polls on Nov. 4, it is important that we understand how this all came about.  What follows is fact.  Some won’t like it, but we must all learn from it.  While there is plenty of blame to go around, the principal cause of the economic crisis is the meltdown of the home mortgage market.  Here’s how it all happened.

It began with the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) in the Carter Administration, a well-intentioned law designed to encourage banks (and savings & loans) to meet the needs of the communities they serve, including low income areas.  It actually worked pretty well, until President Clinton put it on steroids in 1993 to require even more aggressive loan policies, with lending targets, government oversight of all banking institutions to require them to meet targets, and financial incentives to meet the targets. 

Two Government Sponsored Entities  (GSE) Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac were established to further the objective of making loans available to those who would not meet normal economic criteria for loans (sub-prime loans).     Fannie Mae announced this new program in June 1999 (under Clinton), putting the sub-prime mortgage market into high gear.  What followed was a rush by lending institutions to make such loans (including zero down loans and interest only loans, with no income verification) so that they could meet lending targets established by the Government and be eligible for the bonuses (enter greed).  New homeowners, home builders, realtors, and minority interest groups were all happy.  Banks bundled up the mortgages and sold them to Fannie Mae and Freddy Mac.  It was a heady time!

But big trouble was afoot!  The loans were not sound.  When the housing market turned down (as it always does), the homes were worth less than the mortgage.  With nothing invested (no down payment), owners walked!  Foreclosures mounted.  Meanwhile, Fannie Mae & Freddy Mac turned into a scandal.  Fannie Mae Director Franklyn Raines (Democrat appointed by Clinton)  began “cooking the books” to misstate Fannie Mae performance.  He was ultimately forced to resign in 2005, but took with him $100 million in “bonuses” based on the cooked books.  He has not been prosecuted.  Instead, he is an economic advisor to Barack Obama.

President Bush tried to reform Fannie Mae and Freddy Mac in 2003, but the effort was killed in Committee by Democrats, still staunchly defending Raines and the GSEs under their slogan of “affordable housing.”  The Bush Administration made 12 different attempts to increase regulation of Fannie Mae & Freddy Mac, all rebuffed by Democrats in Committee.  John McCain introduced legislation to do it in 2005, blocked by Democrats.

Who is most to blame for failure of our Government to fix the problem?  Sen. Chris Dodd (CT), Sen. Chuck Schumer (NY), and Rep. Barney Frank (MA), all of whom hold key positions in Congress.  They are all   Democrats.  Remember that on Nov. 4th!

 *************************************************************************************

The Best Choice

As a conservative, I have been less than thrilled by the selection of John McCain as the Republican candidate for President. McCain has been a maverick, much too eager to cross the aisle and team with Democrats while poking a stick in the eye of conservatives.  His McCain-Feingold  bill to take money out of politics has failed to do anything except restrict free speech.  His comprehensive immigration reform bill with Sen. Kennedy last summer would have granted amnesty to illegals, without ensuring that the border was secured first.  The list goes on.

But McCain is staunchly and consistently pro-life.  He has 22 years experience in the Senate, and understands international affairs.  He served admirably in the military, and is very strong on the defense of America and the war on terror.  He is pro-2nd Amendment (against gun control), and is pro-family (opposes homosexual marriage).  McCain understands that taxes should not be increased.  As President, he will appoint judges to the Supreme Court that will interpret out Constitution, not re-invent it!  On energy, McCain is coming along.  Although late to the party, he favors drilling for our own oil and gas offshore.  His opposition to opening ANWR may be softened by his selection of Sarah Palin (governor of Alaska) as running mate (because Alaska wants to open ANWR for drilling). 

His selection of Sarah Palin as running mate has rekindled the enthusiasm of conservative voters.  Sarah has a great family of five with her high school sweetheart whom she married after college.  Their 18-year old son enlisted in the Army Sept. 11, 2007, and was deployed to Iraq Sept. 11, 2008.  Sarah   is strongly pro-life.  Their infant daughter born in April has Downs Syndrome, so the Palins are walking the talk about pro-life.  They have three beautiful daughters in between the oldest son and the infant.

Sarah ran for Governor of Alaska as a reform candidate against a questionable regime.  She has implemented ethics reforms, cut wasteful spending, stopped the “bridge to nowhere,” and now enjoys an 80% approval rating in her home state.  She is an outdoors person, an NRA member, and pro-second amendment (against gun control).  In all respects, her record confirms that she is a fiscal and social Conservative.  In short, Sarah Palin is an excellent choice for Vice President!  And we are stoked!

It’s now even possible that the McCain-Palin ticket can beat Obama!   Folks, it’s important.  An Obama-Biden administration will be disastrous for this nation (see the Enduring Freedom article in the Sept issue).  And so we are strongly against Obama.  But now the McCain-Palin ticket gives us Conservatives reason to be for the Republican ticket.  It rekindles our enthusiasm.  It gives us hope!  Hope that the Republicans can win!

And folks, it’s important.  An Obama victory will sweep in liberals to Congress,  to the state legislatures and Governorships across the nation, and to all the judicial races right down to the local level.  We can’t let that happen.  Now there is hope!

 *************************************************************************************

Obama-Nation?

 This nation is on the verge of electing Barack Obama as President.  It will be a big mistake, perhaps even a disaster.  Here’s why. 

Unqualified. Barack is simply not qualified in terms of experience, maturity, or control of his own ego to be President.  His national experience in the U.S. Senate was 143 days from the time he took office until he announced for President.  His accomplishments as an Illinois legislator were unremarkable.  He vaulted to national prominence by a great speech at the Democrat convention four years ago, capturing the heart and soul of the liberal media, who have ensured his continued prominence.  In spite of no significant accomplishments, his ego knows no bounds. 

Naiveté.  Barack is extremely naïve about the realty of international politics.  Folks, he actually believes in himself so much that he is convinced he can solve international crises by “talking” to our enemies.  This dangerous naiveté is born of his …

Audacity.  He dared to go to Germany, liken himself to John F. Kennedy and Ronald Reagan, and address “the citizens of the world.” 

Extreme liberal.  Barack has been the most liberal U. S. Senator, to the left of both Senators Kennedy and Clinton.  Ted Kennedy’s endorsement (over Clinton) should be enough to start the red danger flags waving (unless of course, you too are a liberal).   His positions include:

Pro-abortion, in all respects, including partial birth abortion (the killing of a live infant emerging from the birth canal).  His own quote is that he would not want his daughters “penalized” with a baby!

For weakening the U.S. Military.  He has proudly discussed how he will cut back the U.S. Military (after all, he will resolve conflicts by talking with our enemies).  Reducing military expenditures is essential so that he can …

Increase domestic spending on social programs of all kinds.  Good campaign examples include his plan to “buy votes” by proposing an additional $1000 payment to everyone to help cover the cost of energy.  I suppose some will sell their votes for $1000, but the philosophy of big government programs and handouts carries through to all of his planned programs, which will cost billions of dollars.  But that’s O.K., because he will pay for these programs by…

Raising taxes!  He promises to do so.  He supports increased taxes that will begin with the middle class, but especially on “the rich” who already pay 90% of the income tax burden.  He supports increasing the capital gains taxes and “death” taxes.  He simply doesn’t acknowledge the John Kennedy/Ronald Reagan  model that reducing taxes is the engine of our economy.

He is against producing our own oil and gas.  He is for gun control in all respects.  And the liberal list goes on … Finally, he is ..

Not proud of America.  This has come out again and again from both Barack and his wife, in their own words.  Most recently, he said the U.S. is not as great as we once were, and that he does not want his children raised in that world. 

And we are about to elect this man? 

*************************************************************************************

Drill Here - Drill Now - Pay Less

The reality of $4 gasoline is here to stay, with prospects of $6-7 prices (or higher)  leading to a recession driven by rising energy prices.   Folks, isn’t it about time we really get energized about energy! 

I offered a comprehensive plan for our energy problem in the June issue editorial “Gas Pains.”  Its elements are:  (1) produce more of our own oil and gas; (2) develop and use our vast deposits of coal; (3) continue conservation efforts; and (4) increase our use of proven alternative energy sources (nuclear, wind, and ethanol produced from non-food sources).  I stand by that plan, but would like to concentrate in this column about #1, producing more of our own oil and gas.

Folks, we have lots of undeveloped oil and gas!  We have huge deposits off the east and west coasts, and in the Arctic Natural Wildlife Refuge (ANWR) on the north slope of Alaska.  We have huge new finds in North Dakota and Montana (the Bakkan Shale formation with billions of barrels of recoverable oil).  We have previously discovered vast deposits of shale oil in states like Wyoming. 

Folks, we could be drowning in our own oil and gas!  But we aren’t!  Instead, we are mired in a mix of environmental opposition and political grandstanding that has paralyzed the development of our own oil and gas.  Yet we are willing to pay over $140 per barrel to the other oil producing countries, and watch our nation’s wealth fund our political and religious enemies in the mid-east and elsewhere.

Folks, it’s not the oil companies!  The oil companies would love to produce our own oil and gas.  But they are not allowed to drill.  The potential oil leases off the east and west coasts have been off limits by Presidential Executive Order and Congressional prohibitions.  On July 14 President Bush removed the Executive ban.  But the leadership of the Democratically controlled Congress has steadfastly refused to consider removing the Legislative ban.  This while you are paying $4 per gallon to go dancing!

The Democrats say, “You can’t drill your way to energy independence.”  Folks, they are flat out wrong!  Combined with all the elements of the plan outlined above, producing our own oil and gas is the only way to energy independence.  Democrats also say, “Producing our own oil and gas offers no short term relief.”  Again, they’re wrong!  While it may take 4-10 years to develop our own new oil and gas, the determination to do so would kill the speculation that is driving oil prices higher.  Nothing would stifle speculation more than a determined program by the USA to develop our own oil and gas!  But Obama is having none of it.  And McCain is only a little better, having recently come out in favor of drilling off the east and west coasts. 

Folks, it’s time for grass roots America to take back our country, and demand that we produce our own oil and gas.  See the web site at www.americansolutions.com.  Sign the petition to Drill Here - Drill Now - Pay Less!  Then call your reps via 1-202-225-3121.  Call them weekly, because once is not enough.   Get energized about energy!

 *************************************************************************************

Greenwashing America

To “whitewash” is to gloss over or cover up vices, crimes, or to exonerate by means of a perfunctory investigation or through biased presentation of data.  Greenwashing is the same, different color.  And we are living the Greenwashing of America!

Before proceeding, let me establish my credentials.  I was raised on a dairy farm, learning to conserve the soil.  I remember WWII ration books, saving tin cans and bacon grease, no shoes or sugar, and doing without.  I was raised by depression-era parents, learning that we “use it up, wear it out, make it do, or do without.”  These conservative principles carried through into my adult life.  I didn’t buy a new car (only used) until well into my forties.  We lived below our means, saving every month, even through the hardest early years, and even now.  When I go fishing, I do “catch and release” (keeping only a few).  My point is that I am a conservative, and conservatives conserve!  That includes our planet!

As a conservative, I am alarmed that we are witnessing the “Greenwashing of America,” led by the terrible triumvirate of politics, education, and religion.  Here’s how.

Greenwashing politics is occurring at both the international and national level.  On the International level we are being pressured into signing the Kioto Treaty aimed at hamstringing the American economy by requiring that we significantly reduce our output of greenhouse gasses, while giving free passes to countries like China.  Domestically, the democratic controlled Congress is pressing for “Cap and Trade” legislation that would essentially do the same thing.  Protecting the environment will continue to be a political football in the 2008 elections, as all “Presidential” candidates oppose drilling for and producing our own oil and gas, or using our vast coal deposits. 

Greenwashing education is occurring every day in our schools (and on TV), as teachers brainwash our children to the supposed horrors of economic development and making a profit.  Here’s a question.  What is easier to teach?  English-Algebra-History-Civics, or “environmentalism?” Answer:  Environmentalism, because even the least competent teacher can teach it!   Global warming has become their issue and the battlefield, with our educators spreading the gospel that (1) global warming is a proven fact, and (2) that it is man made, from the emission of carbon dioxide from our sinful use of energy.  While the first may be true, it is almost certainly related to natural cycles.  There is no credible evidence that the second is true, only theories.  Theories promulgated by those who subscribe to…

Greenwashing religion.  Yes folks, for many in the secular world, worship of the environment has replaced worship of God.  It’s taken on all the trappings of a religion, with none of the Divine revelation (unless you happen to believe that God is speaking through Al Gore and An Inconvenient Truth). 

Greenwashing advertising on TV of Greenwashing products is another example.   We are living the Greenwashing of America.  Stand still for it, and you will be Greenwashed!

 *************************************************************************************

Gas Pains

America has gas pains.  At $3.50 a gallon, a tankful of gas costs $50-$60.  At $4+ per gallon for diesel, truckers spend over $1000 to keep our economy moving another tankful.  But energy costs are much more than what we experience at the gas pump.  Energy is an essential ingredient of every product or service in our economy.  So the increased cost of energy is affecting us in everything that we do, every transaction we make.  It’s a universal and compounding tax!  It should help soften the blow that energy in America still costs less than half that it does in Europe.  It should help.  But it doesn’t!  We still have gas pains.

It’s easy to understand the problem.  World energy demand is exceeding world energy supply.  Demand is increasing because world population is increasing, and because heavily-populated countries like China and India are improving their economies, literally moving from bicycles to cars.  Since we rule out nuclear war, pestilence and genocide as solutions to the demand problem (smile here),  the only relief we can expect on the demand side is that the higher price of energy will automatically inhibit growth in demand.  This is good, because it is market forces at work.  But it won’t relieve our gas pains.  So we must look to the supply side for relief.  Common sense dictates that we would consider all the following options to increase our energy supply.

Produce more of our own oil and gas.  Allow oil companies to drill offshore on all three coasts, and in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR).  Do it with due protection of the environment, which oil companies have shown is achievable.  And yes, unfetter oil companies, rather than punishing them!

Develop and use our vast deposits of coal, in two basic ways.  First, move the coal by unit coal trains to electrical generation stations, where it can be converted to energy without polluting the environment.  Second, build coal gasification plants to turn the coal into natural gas, which can be easily moved around the nation in our system of pipelines.

Continue conservation efforts.  While it is absolutely true that we cannot conserve our way to energy independence, every reasonable conservation effort helps.  Continue to mandate increases in automobile gas mileage standards, thereby encouraging development of hybrid vehicles along with improvements in standard engine vehicles.  Mandate higher efficiency ratings for all new air conditioners, and major household appliances (refrigerators, washers, dryers, etc.)

Increase our use of proven alternative energy sources.  This includes electricity generation from nuclear power and wind farms, and ethanol produced from non-food sources (but not from corn, see May column).

Now, what are the chances that we will take such a path to increasing our energy supply?  Not good!  The entire issue is very political, and the environmentalists will oppose everything except conservation.  But the first step is an educated public.  In the long run, that may be the only way to relieve our gas pains.

 ************************************************************************************

The Great Ethanol Scam

Congress, following the lead of President Bush, mandated that oil companies increase the amount of ethanol mixed with gasoline as part of the Energy Policy Act of 2005.  This means that the fuel pumped at most gas stations contains up to 10% ethanol, subsidized at 51 cents per gallon at taxpayer cost.   In addition, the development of autos equipped to burn an E-85 mixture (85% ethanol, 15% gasoline) is being fostered.  This was all hailed as a way of decreasing our dependence on oil by fostering the use of ethanol made from corn.  The environmentalists, the farmers & legislators from corn-producing states, and Archer Daniels Midland (the worlds largest producer of ethanol) all cheered!  In one fell-swoop we could punish big oil, decrease our oil imports, better protect the environment, and help our farmers.  Ethanol would save the day!

Well folks, we’re several years into the use of ethanol, and here’s some facts.

First, ethanol contains one-third less energy per gallon than gasoline.  This means that it takes 1.5 gallons of ethanol to deliver the same energy as a gallon of gasoline.  This directly translates to reduced mileage when using ethanol-enriched fuel.  This has been born out in numerous tests (by EPA and others) that show a reduction in miles per gallon of 26% when using E-85.  For example, a car that gets 30 mpg on gasoline gets about 22 mpg on E-85.  A similar proportional reduction in mileage is seen when using 10% ethanol blends.  This means that you are buying more gallons of gas to drive your same mileage!

Second, when including the energy input by farmers to grow the corn (fuel, fertilizers, transport) ethanol takes more energy to produce than it delivers.  In short, use of ethanol makes us more dependent on oil or other energy sources, not less! 

Third, corn-derived ethanol contains water, which makes it incompatible with movement in gasoline pipelines.  This means moving it by dedicated tanker, truck or pipeline, with additional costs.

Fourth, the price you pay at the pump for an ethanol blend does not reveal the 51 cent per gallon direct federal subsidy (which comes out of your taxpayer pocket, not your back pocket).  Nor does the pump price reflect subsidies paid to the farmers for growing the corn. 

Fifth, it is not at all clear that there is any environmental benefit with use of ethanol.  While nitrogen oxide emissions are lower, ethanol produces higher concentrations of other pollutants.  Further, water usage is high (1700 gallons per gallon of ethanol). 

Sixth, the rush to produce corn ethanol has tripled the price of corn, driving up the cost of all corn products (animal feed, meats, grains, eggs, etc).  This amounts to a hidden tax directly attributable to the mad rush to produce corn ethanol.  It has also resulted in the U.S. needing to import wheat (as acreage is diverted to corn). 

Is there a place for ethanol in our energy solution?  Probably yes, particularly if derived from other sources such as bio-mass.

************************************************************************************

The Economy?

Polls indicate that the issue for most voters this election will be the economy.  Not for me.  My issues are (1) securing our borders, (2) supporting conservative ideals (and keeping socialism at bay) by voting for the most conservative candidates available, and (3) achieving a successful democratic government in Iraq that can withstand Al Quaeda, internal strife and Iran (when we withdraw).

But for most, the issue is the economy, or so we are told by the media and voter exit polls.  With employment at an all-time high, it’s a little puzzling why this is so.  Let’s see if we can figure out why. I must disclose that I am neither helped (nor burdened) by any schooling in economics.  So I can only try common sense. 

Common sense tells me that people are concerned about the economy because the price of food and gas has risen considerably, and it is hitting them directly in their pocket books!  Hence, the economy is “bad,” in spite of record employment, an unsurpassed standard of living, and low unemployment.  Understandable, so let’s examine why fuel and food prices are up.

Fuel prices are increasing because: (a) the world demand for energy (oil and natural gas) is increasing dramatically as nations of the world become industrialized, particularly China and India; and (b) because we have failed to devise a comprehensive national energy policy that makes any sense.  We can’t do anything about the economic development of the rest of the world (besides, it’s a good thing).  But we could do something about our national energy policy. 

Like what?  Well, the Democrats want to penalize oil companies, continue to prevent the production of oil and gas from the Artic National Wildlife Reserve (ANWR) or off the coast of anywhere, and forbid nuclear power generation plants.  They would try to solve the problem with conservation and clean energy sources (e.g.; wind, unless it’s off the coast of Massachusetts where Ted Kennedy objected).  This will not be enough!  But the Bush Administration has accomplished little, other than mandating the use of ethanol in our gas (more on that later), and increasing mileage standards for autos. 

What needs to be done?  Produce more energy from environmentally responsible development of oil and gas reserves, of our huge reserves of coal, and from nuclear and wind.  Couple this with logical conservation.  But higher fuel prices are a new fact of life regardless, and will continue.

But why are food prices rising?  Because the irrational rush to produce ethanol for fuel has almost trebled the price of corn!  So the cost of all food from corn (both human and animal) has risen dramatically, increasing the prices at the supermarket.  It has also resulted in the U.S. needing to import wheat, which would be incredulous if it weren’t true!

So the issue this election is the economy, and yet the most important root cause is the rising price of fuel.  Isn’t it about time we demand a comprehensive energy plan? But wait!  What about global warming?  Glad you asked.  Stay tuned…

************************************************************************************

Vote Informed

Folks, this is an election year.  We have the right to vote.  We have the opportunity to vote in both our primary and general elections. More than that, we have an obligation to vote informed!  We must vote informed because we owe it to those who died to give us this right, and to our grandchildren and future generations. 

This is a Presidential election year, and voter interest (and turnout) is always high.  This is especially true among those voting Democrat this year.  The principal reasons for this are their dissatisfaction with George Bush (and eight years of a Republican Presidency); plus their desire to leave Iraq, enact universal health care, increase taxes on “the rich,” approve the Kioto Treaty (or similar measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions), penalize oil companies, increase social programs, and make straight a path for legalizing those here illegally.

The Democrats are energized, and it shows!  The Democrat turnouts in the primary elections to date have been as much as 50-100% greater than the Republicans!  The Democrat volunteers are in the field and working the phone banks, with campaign contributions flowing in.  The Democrats have two high profile Presidential candidates knotted in a tight race, and the enthusiasm is building to a fever pitch.  They will be energized no matter which candidate they select.  More power to them!  That’s the way the system is supposed to work!

But it’s not working like that for the Republicans this year.  Having been Bush-whacked at the border, and dispirited by failure of our party to control discretionary spending, the conservative base (including me) are unenthused.  Now we have essentially selected a Presidential candidate who is not a real conservative.  This scenario all points towards a Democrat Presidential victory next fall.  Enthusiasm, volunteer effort and voter turnout wins every time!  (I am not resigned to a Democrat victory.  After all, it’s a long time to November, and events in the world or on the campaign trail could change things.  But as it now stands, the Democrats are sitting pretty.)

So what’s a conservative to do? 

Vote, and vote informed!  Vote even if you are not enthused about the Presidential race.  Vote as if the control of the House, the Senate, and the legislature in every state depended upon your vote, because it does!  Vote in the primary elections (March 4 in Texas) to select the candidates that best reflect your views.  This applies equally whether you are voting Democrat or Republican.  If you are liberal, vote to select your candidates.  If you are conservative, vote for those who best reflect your views.

************************************************************************************

Primary Borders

Regular readers of this column know that failure to secure our borders has been my primary subject this year, with four editorials devoted to it.  That’s because I believe that failure to secure our borders is the most serious issue facing the nation, even more fundamental than the terrorist war being waged against us.  The face and fabric of our nation is at stake, and we are losing the battle. 

That’s why I am addressing this primary issue again, in the context of the primary elections now underway across our nation. 

Of course there are many issues that we should consider when choosing whom to support in the primary elections at the local, state and federal issue.  They include crime, education, protecting the unborn, Jihad by Muslim extremists against the U.S., limiting the growth of government, health care, the economy, and many more.  All of these are important.  But securing the borders is primary!  Our votes in the local, state and federal elections should be driven by this primary issue. 

But how best to determine which candidates really are committed to securing the borders, which really want open borders, and which ones equivocate and obfuscate?  Here’s some help (for the Presidential race).  It’s based on the work of Roy Beck, of “Numbers USA” on the web site of Americans for Better Immigration (see www.betterimmigration.com). 

Beck has rated all the Presidential candidates on their overall record and stance on immigration in four categories:  Promises, Past Actions in Office, Specific Legal Immigration Stances, and Specific Illegal Immigrations Stances.  All total, the report card rates the candidates on 16 specifics among these four categories.  For each specific, Beck assigns a rating of excellent, good, fair, poor, bad, or abysmal.  The resulting matrix provides a comprehensive report on the position of every candidate, current as of Jan. 7 2008.  So comprehensive that it is difficult to comprehend.

So I have made it simple by assigning a point system to the ratings.  Excellent is 3, good 2, fair 1, poor minus 1, bad minus 2, abysmal minus 3.  This point system produces the following scores for each candidate (beginning with Tom Tancredo who scored a perfect 48!):

Tom Tancredo (48); Duncan Hunter (41); Fred Thompson (33); Mike Huckabee (23); Mitt Romney (16); Ron Paul (16); John McCain (minus 9); Rudy Giuliani (minus 10); Chris Dodd (minus 15); Hillary Clinton (minus 18); John Edwards (minus 18); Joe Biden (minus 18); Bill Richardson (minus 20); Barack Hussein Obama (minus 23); and Dennis Kucinich (minus 24). 

Some observations based on these scores.  I have personally supported (financially) the campaigns of Tancredo, Hunter and Thompson, because they lead the way on this primary issue.   

John McCain and Rudy Giuliani are the only Republicans with a minus score.  All the Democrat candidates have minus scores, all lower than the worst Republican.  Among the frontrunners, Barack Hussein Obama is the worst.

************************************************************************************

A Primary Role

Have you ever wanted to be important?  Somebody who helped make things happen.  Someone with an important role?  Perhaps even a primary role?

Well, now’s your chance to have a primary role, by taking a role in your primary election!  The state-by-state primary elections will be occurring around the nation in the next several months, beginning in January.

What is a primary election, and why are they important?  Simply stated, primary elections select the people who will be on the general ballot in the fall election, including the Presidential candidates.  In many respects, primary elections are more important than the general election!  How so, you say?  Well, consider this. 

Regardless of whether you are liberal or conservative, the primary election allows you to influence the candidate that your party selects for the fall election.  If you want your party to be more liberal or more conservative; if you distrust the incumbent or have a favorite challenger; if you have a keystone issue such as immigration or abortion or the war on terror; the primary election is the one and only chance to make your voice heard!  Come fall, you will be locked into the person (and hence positions) selected by your party.  But in the primaries, you help select that person, and form the positions!

This is important at every level of government, whether local, state of federal.  At the local level, your primary choices help make positions on issues such as local taxes, sanctuary cities, and crime.  At the state level, you influence all these areas and much more, including the important election of judges, and the top officials of the state (e.g.; governors, etc.).  At the national level, you help influence the direction of the nation by identifying your party’s selection to run for President!

But how do you know whom to vote for in the primary election?  There are so many candidates!  No easy answer here!  It takes effort to learn the candidates, their positions, and sort through all the ads and misinformation to identify those that best reflect your beliefs. 

The internet is a great help.  First, you can go the website of the official in charge of elections (County Clerk, Secretary of State), or your political party to learn about the date of your primary, the candidates, and early voting.  You can look up the candidates and review their positions.  You can go to conservative or liberal web sites to get their viewpoints.  You can look up the League of Women Voters and get their take on the candidates and issues. 

With regard to selecting a Presidential candidate, check out the following neutral site:  www.wqad.com/Global/link.asp?L=259460.  This site helps you identify the Presidential candidate that best reflects your views on 11 important issues.  You select your positions, and the site identifies the candidates that best reflect your positions, based on the candidate’s own statements on each issue.  It works regardless of your political beliefs or party association. 

************************************************************************************

Movies to Make and Miss

We’re not much on movies, because most can’t match up to a good dance.  But two new movies deserve support, because of their subject matter, and important message.  The first is “Bella” and the second is “Border.”  On the other hand. “The Golden Compass” deserves to be boycotted, because it is anti-God propaganda aimed directly at young people.  Let’s start with the good ones!

“Bella” is an exceptional movie!  It is intensely pro-life and pro-family, although the terms pro-life and abortion never appear.  Rather, it tells a story of real life problems, decent values, the importance of family, and two people who help each other overcome their own problems.  “Bella” stars Eduardo Verastegui and Tammy Blanchard.  Verastegui is hardly known in America but was a major star in Mexico soap operas until he began searching for something more in life.  Blanchard is a fresh young face.  Set in New York, Blanchard plays a waitress who is fired on the day she learns she is pregnant.  Verastegui, a chef at the same restaurant with a personal tragedy in his past, befriends her (and loses his job because of it).  The two of them spend the day together, and begin the healing process with the help of his family.  It is an uplifting film, which won the People’s Choice Award at the Toronto Film Festival. “Bella” means beautiful, and this movie is!

While “Bella” will make you feel good, “Border” will upset you, and well it should!  California filmmaker Chris Burgard’s award-winning, feature-length documentary, “Border” takes a firsthand look at the dire and real human consequences of America’s failure to secure its borders.  “Border” unleashes a haunting, inside look at what has arguably become a war zone: rape trees, illegal immigration, drug smuggling, sex trafficking, Mexican military incursions and more - all taking place at the United States’ southern border.  From drug cartels and smuggler towns to besieged American ranchers, “Border” gives the viewer a front row seat.  “Border” focuses on the staggering number of people brutally victimized while illegally crossing from Mexico.  The film includes startling covert thermal imaging footage of drug smugglers, moving millions of dollars of drugs across the border into the United States.  If you care about our country, you should see “Border.”  If you can’t find it at a theater, you can buy the DVD at www.bordermovie.com.

But “The Golden Compass” is the one to miss.  Based on the book by British atheist and critic of religion Phillip Pullman, “The Golden Compass” is an anti-God message disguised as a movie made to appeal to young people.  Scheduled for release Dec. 5, it is being heavily promoted in advertising and previews.

************************************************************************************

Thanks...for Nothing!

The citizens of the United States will be celebrating Thanksgiving again this year, and well we should!  We live in the most prosperous nation in the world.  We are healthier, wealthier, and more secure (safe) than any people in the history of mankind.  Our standard of living is unsurpassed.  Our health care the envy of the world (in spite of those who would destroy it by wrecking it in favor of socialized medicine).  We live longer – and better – than ever before.  Our supermarkets are a cornucopia of plenty, a modern marvel, a tribute to our productivity and to the free enterprise system.

Our Constitution and Bill of Rights have provided us a stable government for 218 years, surviving the Civil War, the great depression, two world wars, and the nuclear arms race (to date).  Our government and our Christian heritage have enabled the American people to develop a nation that is putting fascism, communism, and every other “ism” on the ash heap of history.

More than any of our forbearers, we (you and I) are the beneficiaries, the recipients, the lucky ones that are reaping the harvest.  So we have much for which to be thankful.  Perhaps too much!

Say what???  Well, let me ask you this?  How long has it been since you really “wanted” for something material? 

While you’re thinking about that, I hasten to explain that I am not talking about things like personal relationships, family health matters, or any of the other big ticket items that are part of living and dying.  Everyone has (or will have) unmet wants and needs in this category.

Rather, I am talking about the material things that make our life easier, more fun, more exciting or interesting.  When we were children, it might have been the B-B gun, the fishing rod, the special doll, or the beautiful birthday dress.  As we grew up, it may have been the driver’s license or the prom dress.  Whatever they were, we waited for them...longed for them...planned for them…worked for them…saved for them.  And precisely because we could not immediately get them, they took on greater value.  Greater value while we were waiting, and greater value once achieved. 

But as we have matured, and met the primary needs of our family, we find ourselves able to buy not only what we need, but also that which we only “want.”  Which gets us back to the question.  How long has it been since you really “wanted” for something material? 

As we celebrate Thanksgiving this year in our country of plenty, perhaps we should all “want” something, and learn to “enjoy” that want by doing without it.  Doing without may be the best way of being thankful for what we have.  I think I’ll give it a try.

Thanks … for nothing!

************************************************************************************

Noah  2007

Reprinted by John Rivard  (author unknown)

In the year 2007, the Lord came unto Noah, who was now living in the United States, and said, "Once again, the earth has become wicked and over-populated, and I see the end of all flesh before me.  Build another Ark and save two of every living thing along with a few good humans."

He gave Noah the blueprints, saying, "You have six months to build the Ark before I will start the unending rain for 40 days and 40 nights."

Six months later, the Lord looked down and saw Noah weeping in his yard - but no Ark.

"Noah!" He roared, "I'm about to start the rain!  Where is the Ark?"

"Forgive me, Lord," begged Noah, "but things have changed. I needed a building permit.  I've been arguing with the inspector about the need for a sprinkler system.  My neighbors claim that I've violated the zoning laws by building the Ark in my yard and exceeding the height limitations.  We had to go to the Board of Adjustment for a decision.

Getting the wood was another problem. There's a ban on cutting local trees in order to save the spotted owl.  I tried to convince the environmentalists that I needed the wood to save the owls - but no go!

When I started gathering the animals, an animal rights group sued me.  They insisted that I was confining wild animals against their will. They argued the accommodation was too restrictive, and it was cruel and inhumane to put so many animals in a confined space.

Then the Department of Transportation demanded a bond be posted for the future costs of moving power lines and other overhead obstructions, to clear the route for the Ark 's move to the sea.  I told them that the sea would be coming to us, but they didn’t care.

Then the EPA ruled that I couldn't build the Ark until they'd conducted an environmental impact study on your proposed flood.

I'm still trying to resolve a complaint with the Human Rights Commission on how many minorities I'm supposed to hire for my building crew.

Now Immigration and Naturalization is checking the green-card status of most of the people who want to work.

The trades unions say I can't use my sons.  They insist I have to hire only union workers with Ark-building experience.

To make matters worse, the IRS seized all my assets, claiming I'm trying to leave the country illegally with endangered species.

So, forgive me, Lord, but it would take at least 10 years for me to finish this Ark."

 Suddenly the skies cleared, the sun began to shine, and a rainbow stretched across the sky.  Noah looked up in wonder and asked, "You mean you're not going to destroy the world?"

************************************************************************************

Jihad 101

Most of us believe that we are involved in a “War on Terror,” but really don’t understand our enemy.  We lack the insight of a big picture.  The following short course on the “Third Great Jihad” can be helpful.

A Jihad is a holy war, waged on behalf of Islam as a holy duty.  The first great Jihad began after the Islam religion was established by Mohammad, and lasted about 700 years.  During this Jihad (which included the period we know as the Crusades), Islam grew to be one of the world’s great religions before finally being expelled from the continent of Europe in the battle of Granada (1492).

The second great Jihad came with the Ottoman Turks, who greatly expanded Muslim territories and vanquished Christian Constantinople.  The Ottoman Turk Jihad ultimately fragmented, spawning the development of many sects, including Wahhabiism in the Arabian peninsula about the time of WWI.  This Wahhabi version of Islam has infected the religion, especially the Shiites.

Wahhabiism calls for the complete and total rejection or destruction of anything not based on the original teachings of Mohammed.  It manifested in the actions of the Ayatollah Khoumeini in Iran and the Afghan Taliban.  Its leader is now Usama bin Laden, the leader of the Third Great Jihad, who is Wahhabi, as were his 9/11 attack teams, 18 of which were also Saudi.

The Third Great Jihad did not begin with 9/11.  Their first great victory was the overthrow of the Shah of Iran, who was attempting to “westernize” his Muslim country and establish ties with the U.S.  Aided by the ineptness of the Carter administration, the overthrow of Iran was successful and the radical Muslims gained a base of operations and the oil wealth of Iran.  Remember “Americans held hostage” in Iran?

The Third Great Jihad plans to replace secular governments in all Arab nations with Muslim majorities.  They successfully assassinated Sadat in Egypt, and have made multiple attempts on the lives of Hussein in Jordan, Mubarak of Egypt, and Musharraf in Pakistan.  Pakistan is a special target, because it has nuclear weapons.  Their ultimate goal is to eliminate Israel, and ultimately “the Great Satan” (that means us, folks!).

Jihad is fought in two main ways.  First, by the use of terror, often in the form of bombs, kidnappings, beheadings, and assassinations of local officials and leaders.  Second, by populating a nation with immigrant Muslims, legal and illegal, to undermine the existing rule of law.  The nations of old Europe are being overrun in this manner.

To face Jihad, we must accept (believe) that militant Muslims intend to destroy us!  We must accept that they will not go away.  We must accept that we must fight for our survival, spending both lives and treasure throughout the world, and in this nation. 

*************************************

Secure the Borders

The Europe of our ancestors is disappearing.  No folks, it’s not being flooded by rising sea waters from Al Gore’s global warming!  Rather, it’s being flooded with Muslim immigrants, many of them radical, intent on replacing the established governments and laws with Islam’s “Shariah Law.”  Old Europe is disappearing because its countries are faced with a declining birth rate due to abortion and lifestyle choices (reflecting the decline of the Christian religion) that result in birth rates below replacement value.  The economic need for population growth has resulted in open borders, through which the Muslims have flooded.  The Europe of our ancestors is disappearing.  Does any of this sound familiar as we look at our country?

Our nation made the right choice recently when the US Senate voted not to proceed with the “amnesty” immigration bill pushed by President Bush, Senator Kennedy, and the Democratic leadership.  The bill was seriously flawed because it did not do enough to secure the borders, first!

But now what?  Bill O’Reilly of Fox News offered the following plan in an on-air editorial.  It makes sense to me. 

************************************

First, the southern border must be protected by at least 700 miles of barrier, backed up by a doubling of the Border Patrol. To assist those federal agents, ten thousand National Guardsmen would be stationed near the border.  That would effectively close the border to smugglers of humans and drugs. If you oppose that strategy, you do not want a secure border. Period.

Second, all illegal aliens currently in the USA must register with Homeland Security at their local post office. If they do not register, they would be subject to immediate deportation. After processing by the feds, the aliens would then receive a tamper-proof identification card, allowing them to temporarily work here.

Third, any business hiring aliens who do not have the government-issued ID would be criminally charged.

Fourth, all registered illegal aliens would be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Those deemed by federal authorities to be self-sufficient, law-abiding people would receive the so called "Z-visas," giving them resident status, but not automatic citizenship. That would have to be earned over a number of years by complying with a set of obligations including paying fines, back taxes, learning English, and staying employed.

Any alien with a criminal record or who is unemployed would not be eligible for the Z-Visa.  That takes the blanket amnesty issue off the table and shifts responsibility to those who entered the USA illegally. They must prove they are responsible enough for citizenship.  Unfortunately, some on the left object to strenuous regulations for illegal aliens, but that point-of-view has no future. Most Americans, according the polls, will accept new compatriots provided the southern pipeline is shut down, and a fair penalty for illegal behavior is imposed

************************************************************************************

Secure the Borders First

In early June, the long-ignored majority of Americans fed up with our government’s failure to secure the border loosened a barrage of phone calls, faxes, letters and visits on their respective Senators.  As a result, the Kennedy-Kyl-Bush comprehensive bill to grant essential amnesty to the millions (12, 20, 30 million?) of illegal aliens already here was stalled in the US Senate.  If you were part of the effort to stall this disastrous legislation, you should feel very very proud! 

With your help we won this round, but the war is not over.  Backed by Bush and a coalition of Democrats, some Republicans, and employers, a comprehensive bill will be brought back to the Senate, and we will have to fight it again!  And again.  And again!!!

We should expect such attempts from the Democrat leadership in Washington, who see an unstemmed flood of immigrants as the sure-fire way to gain political control of the nation for decades to come.  What infuriates us conservatives is the push for this legislation by Bush and some Republicans legislators (see April issue Editorial, “Bushwhacked at the Border”).

President Bush and these Republicans don’t understand four major points.  First, for most legal Americans (of all races and political affiliations) securing our borders is the most important issue that exists, far more important than anything else, including Iraq, Iran, North Korea, the rest of the War on Terror, and all other domestic issues.  Second, we are not opposed to dealing fairly with the millions already here, and accept that those who are not felons or otherwise disqualified should have a path to citizenship, if that is what they want.  Third, we understand that this nation needs both immigrants and temporary workers to continue to grow and prosper, and it is important to provide for both in a controlled and fair manner.  Fourth (and most importantly) because of our government’s proven track record of failing to secure the border, we insist that the border be secured first! 

Do we have reason to believe that the government, left on its own, will not secure the border?  Well, Yes!  The evidence is all around us in the millions of illegals who cut our lawns, build our houses, do the entry level jobs, and fill our schools, emergency rooms, and jails.  The evidence crosses the border in thousands every day.  We know that our government has not secured the border as promised in new legislation last year, nor in the wake of 911, nor after the Amnesty of 1986 (which was to have cured the problem).  Yes, we have plenty of reason to doubt the sincerity, will or intent of our government to secure the border!

And until they do, we don’t want any “comprehensive” solution that repeats the mistakes of the past, promising control, but delivering only amnesty!

We’re fed up, and that’s why we flooded our representatives with phones calls, letters, faxes, visits and even demonstrations!  That’s why we will continue to do so.  Until our elected representatives get the message.

************************************************************************************

Memorial Day

Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, is a day of remembrance for those who have died in our nation’s service.  It takes on special, new significance this year.

There are several stories about its actual beginnings.  It was first proclaimed in 1868 and observed on May 30^th that year when flowers were placed on the graves of Union and Confederate soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery.  Later it was known as “Decoration Day.”  It is now celebrated across the nation on the last Monday in May.

Many Texas Polka News readers may have childhood memories of Decoration Day.  These memories may involve services in parks, with uniformed veterans of WWI firing volleys from old Springfield rifles in tribute to their fallen companions.  It might include services in a gymnasium, with someone reciting Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address (exceptionally fitting on Memorial Day).  In the late 40s and 50s the emphasis would have been on veterans of WWII and the Korean Conflict.  In more modern times, the Viet Nam war moved into center stage.  Now we have Iraq and Afghanistan.

While the players and the conflicts have changed, several things seem to remain constant over the 135 years we have been marking Memorial Day.

First, sorrow, sacrifice and pride in the faces of those who served and those who lost loved ones.  Second, our nation’s flag, used to decorate or mark graves, and flown half-staff until noon (if proper flag etiquette is followed).  Third, a certain degree of detachment among younger people who have not the years, the experience nor the involvement to appreciate the significance of the event or the emotions of those that took part.  Fourth, a desire by many to sing a patriotic prayer.  Perhaps “God Bless America” or “America” or more recently “God Bless The USA.”

And the final constant is “TAPS” which was composed during the Civil War.  While we normally associate TAPS with the lonely and haunting bugle call, here are the words: 

“Fading light dims the sight, And a star gems the sky, gleaming bright.  From afar drawing nigh – falls the night.”

“Day is done, gone the sun, From the lake, from the hills, from the sky.  All is well, safely rest, God is nigh.” 

“Then goodnight, peaceful night, Till the light of dawn shineth bright, God is near, do not fear – friend good night.”

 Good night to all who served, and gave us our lives with their sacrifice.

************************************************************************************

Global Warming?  Or Hot Air?

We are bombarded daily with dire predictions of man-made catastrophe from “Global Warming.”  One of the leading public figure alarmists is Al Gore, who is spreading the word as an “Inconvenient Truth.”  Let’s explore the real truth about global warming. 

There are several questions that should be honestly addressed.  First, is the earth getting warmer?  Second, how serious is it?  Third, what is the role of man? 

Is the earth getting warmer?  Yes, the earth is in a long term “natural” warming trend that began about 18,000 years ago as we came out of the ice ages when glaciers covered much of the northern hemisphere.  By the end of the ice age the world temperature had risen about 18 degrees F, and sea levels had risen 300 feet.  But this long term warming has nothing to do with man (unless Al would have us believe that cavemen discovering fire is the cause!).  Rather, it is mostly the result of cycles in the sun’s activity; the tilt of the earth’s axis; and wobble in the earth’s orbit around the sun.

But within this warming there are warming and cooling cycles.  During the “medieval warm period” (~10^th-14^th centuries) Greenland was green and grapes grew in Britain.  But that was followed by the “little ice age” (~16^th-19^th centuries).  More recently, warming and cooling cycles in the US have occurred (looking at the chart, I can see why I shoveled a lot of snow 1947-51!).  And yes, the US warming trend since the mid-70s has increased temperatures (less than 1 degree F), reaching the same levels as during the 1930’s.  But it’s also important to note that using the most accurate measuring method available (satellite), the average global temperature in the last 18 years has actually decreased!

Bottom line?  Long term warming, but no reliable evidence of recent alarming increases!

How serious is it?  That seems to depend upon whether you are concerned about 10 years, 1000 years or 10,000 years.  Clearly, there is no near term reason for alarm.

What is the role of man?  Al Gore wants us to believe that man’s burning of fossil fuels is causing global warming by increasing the “greenhouse effect” of carbon dioxide (CO₂) in the atmosphere.  The fact is that 95% of the earth’s greenhouse effect comes from water vapor in the air?  Does Al think we are responsible for water vapor in the air?  It is true that increasing the CO₂ content of the atmosphere increases the greenhouse effect, but obviously only by “wagging the 5% tail” because water vapor controls! 

Bottom line?  There are many good reasons to conserve energy, recycle, and yes, reduce our carbon footprint!  But to blame man for global warming is either the pinnacle of human ego (thinking we have that much power over the nature of God’s universe), or a misdirected effort to gain notoriety, political advantage, and governmental power over our lives. 

************************************************************************************

Bush-Whacked at the Border

Well, it turns out that the Dixie Chicks were right!  (Even if for all the wrong reasons!)  President Bush’s refusal to secure our borders makes me ashamed that he’s from Texas!  Not an easy thing for me to admit, but the time has come to tell it like it is.  We’ve been Bush-whacked at the border!

As Commander-in-Chief, the President of the United States is responsible for protecting this nation.  For me, this should begin with securing our borders.  As Commander-in-Chief, that should be job one! 

And Bush refuses to do it!  Oh sure, he has sent some National Guard troops to the border in a pretense designed to allay our fears, and he has increased spending for securing the borders.  But he is more committed to opening the borders for a guest worker program than to securing the borders for our protection.

Want proof?  His Justice Department has made an example of any border guard that dares to enforce the border by putting them in jail.  The cases in point are named Ignacio Ramos, Jose Compean, and Guillermo Hernandez, all citizens and former border control agents.  All three are now in jail for enforcing the border!  The Bush Administration clearly wanted to send the message to its border agents.  Enforce the border and you go to jail!

By his failure to secure the border, Bush is alienating the conservative base of the Republican Party.  We feel betrayed.  But worse is the irreparable harm to our nation as it is literally being conquered by illegal immigration. 

Of course we need immigration!  With our declining birth rate, we join all of Europe as nations that must have controlled, legal immigration to grow and thrive.  But the key is “legal” immigration!  “Legal” begins by securing the borders!  Bush, and the Republican controlled Congress did not get the job done!

Not that the Democrats would do better.  To the contrary, they are even more committed to open borders than Bush.  Their past record in promoting “motor voter” registration, and rushing through many thousands of people to citizenship for the Clinton re-election speaks volumes.  Louder yet is their silence on Bush’s failure to secure the borders.  If the Democrats wanted to control the borders they would be crucifying Bush on this issue!

So what is a frustrated conservative to do? 

First, urge your congressman to pressure Bush to pardon Ramos, Compean and Hernandez. 

Second, commit to supporting true conservative candidates in the Republican Primary election next year.  (We must send the message at the primary election level). 

************************************************************************************

What is an American?

A Texas Polka News subscriber recently suggested that the Enduring Freedom editorial address the topic, “What is an American?”  The more I thought about it, the more difficult it became.  We all think we instinctively know what makes a good American.  But putting it in a few words is challenging.  The potential traps include (1) creating a model so perfect that no one among us can meet the standard, and (2) our own built-in biases and prejudices that make it difficult to be objective.  But it seems worth a try, so here we go.

First, an American is proud of this country, proud to be here, proud of our history and heritage, and proud of what this nation has accomplished in advancing the freedom of mankind (worldwide) with our representative republic, capitalism and the Judeo-Christian ethic.

Not that we can be proud of everything in our history.  We took this land from the Native American civilization.  Slavery was an abomination.  Our founding fathers, although “giants” in the advancement of human rights, had their own human foibles and weaknesses, as do our leaders today.  The list goes on.  But the key point to remember is that an American proudly believes that we have done far more good for the advancement of the human race than we have done harm. 

This is where some critics among us fail the test of being American!  Those who see and spout nothing but our failures and weaknesses are so blinded by their own prejudices that they are no longer proud to be American.

Second, an American wants to remain being an American, or fervently desires to become an American.  Aliens in our country who meet this test have the makings of an American.  Those who do not meet the test can never be good Americans, and should not have the status of citizen, or the privileges and benefits that come with that status. 

One good way to test if a person wants to be American is their willingness to learn and use the English language.  There is nothing wrong with maintaining a heritage language, as many Czechs, Germans, Poles, Cajuns, Vietnamese and Hispanics have done.  But it is the willingness and eagerness  to learn and use English that is the first and demonstrable test of wanting to be an American. 

Third, an American accepts the responsibility of participating in the governance of our nation by taking an informed role in our electoral process.  Many native born fail this test routinely. 

Fourth, an American will defend this country by serving in the armed forces when the need arises.  Any who refuse to serve fail the test.

Fifth, a person who comes to America to take advantage of our opportunity does not try to “kill the golden goose” by transforming our country into the nation they chose to leave.  Those that do try are not American.

Last, an American has no difficulty rendering to both Caesar and God.  A major concern is that many of the Muslim faith do not meet this test.

************************************************************************************

Stem Cell Issues

Confused about the controversy surrounding the medical use of stem cells?  Uncertain about how to balance the great promise of stem cells against protection of human embryos?  Here’s a primer.

First, the potential use of stem cells to combat disease and repair damaged organs is a very exciting medical frontier, with much promise.  Second, the stem cell controversy is unnecessary, and all stems from the ideological debate over abortion.  Here’s why.

Stem cells are the building blocks of our bodies.  They are the “starter cells” that do become our skin, bones, organs, brain tissue, and every part of our bodies.  They hold considerable promise for repairing our bodies if they can be successfully harvested, harnessed, and delivered to diseased or damaged body parts.  There are currently four sources for stem cells:  Embryonic, umbilical cord blood, adult stem cells, and amniotic fluid (newly discovered this month in the fluid in which a baby is developing in the womb,).

But stem cells are not all equal.  Some have the potential to become “anything” in the human body, while others are restricted in what they can be.  The more primal the cell, the greater their potential.  Hence, embryonic stem cells (from the human embryo in its first days of development) have greatest potential utility.  Adult stem cells taken from an adult body are more limited in what they can become. 

Research is underway in the use of all four types of stem cells.  There is no ideological controversy about the use of stem cells from umbilical cord blood, amniotic fluid, or adult stem cells, because harvesting these cells does not involve the destruction of human life.  Further, most of the successful medical advances to date have come from the use of adult or umbilical stem cells. 

Use of embryonic stem cells is the source of ideological controversy, because it requires the destruction of the human embryo.  Pro-lifers see this as the destruction of human life, thus very objectionable on ethical and moral grounds.  Pro-lifers also point out that the use of embryonic stem cells has been clouded by development of tumors, a problem not being encountered with the other stem cell sources.

Advocates of embryonic stem cells believe that the potential benefits outweigh the necessary destruction of the human embryo.  They demand federal funding for this particular type of research, in addition to privately funded research now underway.  This demand for federal funding is the source of all the controversy.

************************************************************************************

America's Enemies - Abortion

There have been about 45 million abortions in the 33 years since the U.S. Supreme Court legalized abortion.  This number dwarfs the six million victims of Hitler’s “final solution.”  After peaking at about 1.4 million per year in 1990, the abortion numbers have declined to about 850,000 per year.  Lest you think that is great news, it still means that about 10 little lives will be terminated in the time it will take you to read (and think about) this column.  At the peak of abortion, about one of every three pregnancies ended in abortion.  In a nation where contraception is readily available to all, one of every five babies is still legally aborted.  This waste of human life is abhorrent.

Yet we as a nation condone it, either denying the obvious biological fact that abortion takes an innocent human life, or worse yet, knowing that it is life, and not caring!  That’s the really frightening part, especially for seniors watching new generations with no respect for life take control of our society.  We have taught them life does not matter.  These are the people who will govern us as we age.

Consider some of the ways in which abortion is wrong.

First, abortion terminates an innocent human life.  That an embryo or fetus is a human being cannot be denied.  Women don’t have puppies … they have baby humans!  And the physical act of regular birth does not change anything.  Clearly, if it is human being after birth, it is human being before birth.  (National Geographic has produced a TV program about life in the womb that documents the development of the human in the womb.  Anyone who has watched this program understands that abortion takes an innocent human life.)

Second, abortion corrodes and destroys the moral fiber of our nation.  By placing zero value on unborn human life, abortion degrades the value of all human life.  It coarsens our society, and destroys our respect for life. 

Third, abortion is demographic suicide.  The fertility rate of our nation, which was about three children per woman, has dropped to two children per women, below replacement rate.  Our nation is in decline.  Of the 45 million babies aborted, about 20 million would now be productive citizens if they had been allowed to live.  Instead, we need immigration (mostly illegal) to survive. 

Many Pro-life organizations exist to fight abortion and assist those who need help.  Texas Right to Life (TRL) is one of the best!  The TRL web site (www.texasrighttolife.com) is an excellent resource, and identifies over 200 programs in almost 100 Texas cities for those needing help.  Look them up on the web, or give them a call at 713-782-LIFE.  They’ll be glad to talk with you and tell you how you can help. 

************************************************************************************

America's Enemies - The ACLU

“I am for socialism, disarmament and ultimately for abolishment of the state itself as in instrument of violence and compulsion.  I seek social ownership of property, the abolition of the propertied class, and sole control by those who produce wealth.  Communism is the goal.”

O.K. folks, who said it?  Lenin perhaps, or Stalin?  Castro?  Venezuela’s Hugo Chavez?  No folks, we have to look closer to home – within our own society.  It was Roger Nash Baldwin (1884-1981), the founder of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU).  And the organization that he founded in the first half of the 20^th century continues to be a threat to our nation, under the guise of protecting our freedoms. 

Barely a week goes by that we don’t hear of some outrageous action by the ACLU.  Whether its attempting to force the Boy Scouts to authorize homosexual leaders, restricting prayer in public settings, fighting the death penalty, promoting gay and lesbian “normality” under the guise of “rights,” promoting open borders under the guise of “immigrant’s rights,” undermining penal institutions under the guise of “prisoner’s rights,” weakening national security under the guise of “individual rights,” and on and on.  Think I’m making this up?  Go to their web site, and read the cleverly packaged Issues summaries.  The attack on all our institutions is apparent, all under the guise of protecting our freedoms.

My answer?  Our Constitution has done a mighty fine job protecting my freedoms, and I don’t need the complete reworking of our institutions, thank you very much!

Is it possible for Government to infringe upon our freedoms?  Absolutely!  Do we have to be ever vigilant through our legislatures and courts against the abuse of power?  You bet!

But is the ACLU our true ally in this?  Not the way I see it!  Not when they defend child molestation advocates.  Not when they try to deny our Armed Forces from recruiting in High Schools. 

Back in the 1930s, Congress investigated the ACLU and found them to be closely associated with the Communist Party.  Fox News’ Bill O’Reilly writes that the ACLU “is still using the Baldwin’s strategy, wrapping itself in the flag and defending the rights of ‘folks.’  Unless of course the folks are Christians, Boy Scouts, parents who want to know if their underage daughters are having abortions, or concerned Americans who want sexual predators who hurt children held accountable.”

************************************************************************************

America's Enemies - Hugo Chavez

Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld recently said, “America is not what’s wrong with the world!”  Donald Rumsfeld is right!  But there are many in the world (and some in the U.S.) that don’t see it that way.  Among them is Hugo Chavez, the President of Venezuela. 

Venezuela Dictator Hugo Chavez has vowed to bring down the United States.  Chavez, President of Venezuela, told a TV audience: "Enough of imperialist aggression; we must tell the world: down with the U.S. empire.  We have to bury imperialism this century."

Chavez is pushing a socialist revolution and has a close alliance with Cuban dictator Fidel Castro.  Many believe he wants to replace Castro as the major anti-U.S. force in the western hemisphere.  One big difference between Castro and Chavez is that Chavez (Venezuela) has oil!

Chavez made a big splash recently with his appearance at the United Nations, where he called President Bush “the Devil” and pronounced the United States “worthless.”  His specific words were, “The government of the United States doesn’t want peace.  It wants to exploit its system of exploitation, of pillage, of hegemony through war.” 

Chavez received applause from many in the United Nations General Assembly.  He is pushing the UN to seat Venezuela on the UN Security Council.  (Venezuela and Guatemala are competing for an opening coming up on the Security Council.)  Chavez is also helping middle eastern terrorists enter our country illegally across the Mexican border, teaching them Spanish.  He is essentially at war with us!  Yes, we have enemies, and Chavez is near the top of the list.  And as a large exporting nation of crude oil, he has oil as a tool.

But so do we, at least as far as Chavez is concerned.  That’s because the Venezuelan government markets their oil in the United States as Citgo Oil Company, seen throughout the nation as Citgo service stations.  That’s right, folks.  Our self-proclaimed enemy markets the Venezuela oil to you and me at every Citgo station.  The profits go where?  Why to the Venezuelan government of course! 

So every time you buy gas at a Citgo service station, you are directly supporting the government of a man who has proclaimed us his enemy.  So why would anyone want to trade at a Citgo service station?

************************************************************************************

Decisions 2006

We go to the polls on Tuesday, Nov. 7 in a nationwide exercise of our representative Republic commonly called “mid-term elections.”  We will elect our local and state governments, and our representatives to the United States Senate and House of Representatives.  All of these races are important, especially those that help determine which party controls the Senate and the House.

Republicans have been in control of the Senate and House since the 1994 mid-term elections of Clinton’s first term, when dissatisfaction with his policies brought both legislative bodies under Republican control for the first time in almost 40 years. 

Now there is a possibility that the House and Senate may swing back to Democrat control, a result of steadfast opposition to Bush from the left, concern about the war in Iraq and its role in the war on terror, and dissatisfaction among conservatives that Bush has failed to control the borders. 

So it is a very important election, regardless of which party or candidates that you support.  Here are some things to consider.

President Bush has indeed failed to adequately control the borders, and this is a great concern.  Many are tempted to “vote for anyone who will control the border,” and you can count me among them.  But we must also remember that the record of the Clinton Administration was even more dismal.  It was the Democrats that brought us “motor-voter” legislation, and it was Clinton-Gore who waived the English requirement for citizenship and rushed into citizen status tens of thousands of immigrants before the 2000 elections.  It’s also important that among the current members of Congress, the “strong border enforcement” people are found primarily in the Republican Party.

The concern about post-Saddam Iraq is very real, as the terrorist actions and religious strife have severely disrupted the rebuilding of the country.  Consequently, the vision of Iraq as an “Island of Democracy” strategically positioned between the U.S.-hating Iran and Syria, and the problematic Lebanon and Saudi Arabia has not yet been achieved.  In spite of these difficulties, great progress has been made towards establishing self-government in Iraq, and in rebuilding its ability to maintain order and deal with both terrorist and religious fanatics. 

Democrats argue that Iraq has diverted our effort to combat terrorism.  I don’t believe this is correct.  To the contrary, our fascist Islamic enemies realize that denying us a successful rebuilding of Iraq will seriously damage our effectiveness in the world, and so they have taken the fight to Iraq.  It seems to me that Iraq is a front line in the war on terror, and must be won.  And it’s better to fight that battle there, than here!

Of course, Iraq is not the only front line in World War III, the war on terror, for which our “Pearl Harbor” was “nine eleven.”  That war must be continued world wide in efforts to capture terrorists, break up their cells, and disrupt their finances.  It includes enforcing our borders. 

************************************************************************************

Islamic Fascism

We are at war with Islamic Fascism.  It is a war that the fascists are bringing to us, and a war that will continue for generations.

The recently foiled plot to bring down ten or more Unites States airliners is the most recent act of war.  Everyone recalls the attack of Sept. 11, 2001.  Many believe that it was the opening shot in the war.  That’s incorrect.  We have been under active attack for 27 years.  Here’s the record:  Iran Embassy Hostages, 1979; Lebanon Embassy 1983; Beirut Marine Barracks 1983; Lockerbie, Scotland Pan-Am flight to New York 1988; First New York World Trade Center attack 1993; Saudi Arabia Khobar Towers Military complex 1996; Nairobi US Embassy 1998; Tanzania US Embassy 1998; Yemen USS Cole bombing 2000.  All these acts were by Islamic fascists.

Are you ready to agree that we are at war, with a determined enemy?  And these are only the acts against the United States.  A similar litany exists for Islamic fascist attacks on other countries.

What is an Islamic Fascist?  The dictionary defines fascism as, “a political philosophy, movement or regime that exalts nation or race and stands for a centralized autocratic government headed by a dictatorial leader, severe economic and social regimentation, and forcible suppression of opposition.”  Hitler and Mussolini were fascists.  So too are the extreme Muslim sects that are breeding Islamic fascism throughout the world.

Who are the players in the Islamic fascist movement?  Like the snake-head hair of a modern Medusa, there are many.  Here are a few.  The Taliban leaders that turned Afghanistan into the breeding ground for world terror.  Al Quaeda, leader Osama Bin Laden, and all his followers.  The Wahhabi sect of the Muslim faith, wherever they are worldwide (especially Saudi Arabia).  The Imams (leaders) of the extreme Muslim sects in cities like London, or Detroit (or wherever) who teach the superiority of the Islam faith and death to infidels (any non-Muslim is an infidel). 

Organized movements that oppose the existence of Israel as their primary reason for existence also fit into the picture  This includes Hezbollah in Lebanon, and the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) in Palestine. 

The governments of Syria and Iran are also significant players, especially Iran.  Hezbollah and the PLO both look to Iran as the leaders of their movement.  The President of Iran, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad deserves special mention.  Since his election in 1995, Ahmadinejad has emerged as a significant new leader of the Islamic world.  Learn how to say the name, folks.  It’s “Ah-ma-din-i-jad.”  It’s a name we will come to fear.

In a movement calculated to undermine Israel, Ahmadinejad states that the Holocaust never happened, and that if it did, then Europe should be the home of Israel.  Do not dismiss this as the ranting of an irrational man.  Ahmadinejad is very rational, and hence all the more dangerous.  Iran has said they have 52,000 trained suicide bombers ready to attack the United States. 

************************************************************************************

Jihad 101

The Middle East is erupting in war as the Muslim terrorist organization Hamas and Hezbollah make war on Israel, urged on by Iran through Syria.

Most of us believe that we are involved in a “War on Terror,” but really don’t understand exactly who or what we are fighting.  We think only about today, based on the recent past, and lack the insight of a big picture.  That’s why the following short course on the “Third Great Jihad” can be helpful. 

A Jihad is a holy war, waged on behalf of Islam as a holy duty.  The first great Jihad began after the Islam religion was established by Mohammad, and lasted about 700 years.  During this Jihad (which included the period we know as the Crusades), Islam grew to be one of the world’s great religions before finally being expelled from the continent of Europe in the battle of Granada (1492). 

The second great Jihad came with the Ottoman Turks, who greatly expanded Muslim territories and vanquished Christian Constantinople.  The Ottoman Turk Jihad ultimately fragmented, spawning the development of many sects, including Wahhabiism in the Arabian peninsula about the time of WWI.  This Wahhabi version of Islam has infected the religion, especially the Shiites.

Wahhabiism calls for the complete and total rejection or destruction of anything not based on the original teachings of Mohammed, and is best demonstrated by the actions of the Ayatollah Khoumeini in Iran and the Afghan Taliban.  Its leader is now Usama bin Laden, the leader of the Third Great Jihad, who is Wahhabi, as were his 9/11 attack teams, 18 of which were also Saudi.

The Third Great Jihad did not begin with 9/11.  Their first great victory was the overthrow of the Shah of Iran, who was attempting to “westernize” his Muslim country and establish ties with the U.S.  Aided by the ineptness of the Carter administration, the overthrow of Iran was successful and the Third Great Jihad gained a base of operations and the oil wealth of Iran.  Remember “Americans held hostage” in Iran?

The plan for the Third Great Jihad is to replace secular governments in all Arab nations with Muslim majorities.  They successfully assassinated Sadat in Egypt, and have made multiple attempts on the lives of Hussein in Jordan, Mubarak of Egypt, and Musharraf in Pakistan.  Pakistan is a special target, because it has nuclear weapons.  Their ultimate goal is to eliminate Israel, and ultimately “the Great Satan” (that means you, folks!).

Yes, we are at war!  While 9/11 was “Pearl Harbor” for this war, it was preceded by many acts of terrorism.  The Bush administration understands all this.  We have ousted the Taliban, and are attempting to establish a democracy in Iraq.  We have taken the fight to the terrorists, instead of waiting for them to attack us.  It is the only way to win. 

But to continue winning, we must all understand that militant Moslems have declared war on us.  A war that will last decades and centuries. 

************************************************************************************

Order on the Border II

We lost a Great American when Karel Matejka died suddenly at home in El Campo (TX) June 2 on his 83^rd birthday.  Karel was forced into slave labor in Hitler’s work camps at age 16, surviving only to encounter the post WW II repression of the Communist regime in his native Czechoslovakia.  He escaped in 1948 to avoid imprisonment, and immigrated legally to the USA, becoming a proud citizen in 1958. 

Karel understood better than most of us the value of our freedoms (see article p. 4).  While he was very proud of his Czech heritage, he was even prouder of being an American. 

And what makes Karel different than the hordes streaming across our uncontrolled borders?  Two things.  First, he came here legally.  Second, he loved America for its freedoms, and wanted to be an American, first!

Unfortunately, these traits are too often lacking in the hordes of illegals crossing our borders.  It is true that they come here to better themselves, and there is no wrong in that.  But it seems to me that their loyalty is to their native lands, not to America.  The only proof I need is that they refuse to learn–and use-our language!

The failure of our governments to control our borders has been at all levels.  Locally, we establish “hospitality cities” that proclaim that “illegal is O.K.”  On the state level, we refuse to aid the border sheriffs in their efforts to deal with the problem.  On the national level, President Bush has failed to address the issue effectively, and the Senate has passed an immigration bill that amounts to amnesty.

Only the House of Representatives has finally got it right.  Their version of the immigration bill requires control of the borders before we consider how best to assimilate the 12 million or more illegals already here.

Here’s the current situation.  President Bush wants a “comprehensive” bill out of Congress (“comprehensive” means inadequate steps to control the border first).  The Senate (under the leadership of Senators Kennedy and Specter) has passed a horrible bill which fails to control the border first.  The House has passed an excellent bill to control the border first.  These bills must now be reconciled (or allowed to die).  Meanwhile, the border states Governors have control over how the National Guard authorized by Bush is to be used at their borders.

What must we do?  Continue to bring irresistible pressure on our elected representatives to control the border, first! 

How do you call or write your Senators and Representative?  Easy!  Call the Capital Switchboard at 202-224-3121 and ask to be connected to your Senators and Representatives (by name).  Tell the Senators you favor the House bill.  Tell the Representatives that you support their bill and to hang tough in the negotiations with the Senate

Don’t forget to call your Governor, particularly if you live in a border state.  Ask them to use the National Guard to directly assist control of the borders in the most effective way.  In Texas, call Governor Perry at 512-463-2000.  Other states call the State Capital switchboard.

************************************************************************************

Movies to Make and Miss

We’re not much on movies, because most can’t match up to a good dance.  We’re usually willing to wait for even the best ones to come out on DVD rentals.  But several new movies deserve consideration, because of their subject matter, and important message.

The first of these is “United 93” released in May by Universal Pictures.  On Sept. 11, 2001, four planes were hijacked.  Three of the four reached their target.  United 93 is the story of the fourth plane. 

Most are familiar with the tragic events of Sept. 11, when our nation was attacked by Muslim extremists (terrorists), resulting in almost 3000 deaths, the destruction of the two World trade Center buildings in New York, and major damage at the Pentagon.  The fourth plane, destined to destroy our Capital, was taken over by heroic citizens on board, crashing in Pennsylvania field.  The heroes on United 93 saved our capital.  United 93 tells the story.

It is produced as documentary and drama, and actually portrays very well the entire story of that September morn, centering around the air traffic control headquarters, United headquarters, and of course the inside of United 93 itself.  It helps us relive and better understand the events of 9-11, and silently but eloquently reminds us that we are the targets of a Jihad (Holy War) for the rest of our existence.  It is a sobering message, and a “booster shot” for us all.  It is R rated because of the violence portrayed in the airplane, but this violence is real history, not make believe.  Take your maturing grandchildren too!

The next issue is the Da Vinci Codes, involving a movie and a DVD.  Don’t see the movie, and do buy the DVD!  Here’s why.

The Da Vinci Code movie, released in May, is based on the novel of the same name that sold over 40 million copies.  Directed by Ron Howard and starring Tom Hanks, the movie is sure to be a box office hit.  The problem is that the movie attacks the Christian faith , making false claims including that Jesus and Mary Magdalene were man & wife, the New Testament is false testimony, that over 80 Gospels were written, and that the Divinity of Christ was a fourth century invention of the Council of Nicea.  That’s just for starters.  The book’s author admits that the book is a fictional novel, but the falsehoods are presented as fact.  The movie will substantially damage the Christian faith.  Don’t support it!

Instead, but a copy of The Da Vinci Delusion on DVD, which debunks the movie.  This DVD systematically presents and destroys the falsehoods in the Da Vinci Codes.  It can be ordered for $25 through the web site of the American Family Association, www.afa.net.  Or call 1-662-844-5036.  View it, and then pass it around among all your family and friends. 

************************************************************************************

Order on the Border

The United States is being invaded.  We are in danger of losing our culture, our American Spirit, and ultimately our nation.  It happened to the American Indian, and it can happen to us.

We have witnessed the flood of uncontrolled illegals at all of our borders, but particularly the border with Mexico.  We have seen the recent street demonstrations, with illegals waving the Mexican flag.  We have looked on as our elected representatives and leaders in both parties refuse to take action. 

Not that I am opposed to legal immigration!  Except for the Native Americans, we are all immigrants.  And demographics demand that we continue legal, controlled immigration.  As we abort over one million of our own each year and limit our birth rate through family planning, we fall far short of the population growth needed to sustain our economy.  The difference must come from legal immigration.

But there is a difference between the immigration of the past and the new border invasion.  That difference is more than the “legality.”  The great waves of European immigrants came here to become Americans!  They worked hard, learned the language, and became a part of America.  They wanted to be Americans.

By contrast, the new illegals come here to work, and to obtain all the benefits of living here.  They do not learn the language, do not give up their ties to their native country, and in the case of the Mexicans, are now openly talking about “taking back” the southwestern states. 

It is absolutely clear that we must have order on the border.  When the roof is leaking, you fix it first.  When the burst water pipe is spraying, you turn it off first.  When the boat is sinking, you plug the leak first.  And our first action must be to control the borders.  Then and only then can we begin to address assimilation of the 12-15 million illegals.

What must we do?  Bring irresistible pressure on our elected representatives to control the border, first! 

Now is the time to act.  Now is the time to call or write your Senators and Representatives.  Now is the time to demand that we control the borders first.  We can then deal with what to do about those already in the country.

How do you call or write your Senators and Representative?  Easy!  If you live in Texas, your Senators are Kay Bailey Hutchison and John Cornyn.  Contact info: Senator Hutchison:  202-224-5922, or by e-mail through www.hutchison.senate.gov.  Senator Cornyn:  202-224-5922, or by e-mail through www.cornyn.senate.gov.

If you live outside Texas, call the Capital Switchboard at 202-224-3121 and ask to be connected to your Senators and Representatives (by name). 

Don’t forget to call your Governor, particularly if you live in a border state.  In Texas, call Governor Perry at 512-463-2000.  Other states call the State Capital switchboard.

************************************************************************************

Husbands, Love Your Wives

The greatness of our nation rests on three strong pillars: (1) Our Constitution and the representative Republic which it established; (2) the free enterprise system that has unlocked the productivity of our human resource; and (3) the strength of the family unit.  I have often talked about the first two.  Now it’s time to address the family unit.

Strong family units are essential to our continued success as a society.  And it seems to me that the secret to strong family units is for husbands to love their wives. 

While St. Paul identifies the husband as the head of the family (Ephesians 5:23), he also said “Husbands, love your wives…” (Ephesians 5:25), and went on to say, “He who loves his own wife, loves himself.”  (Ephesians 5:29).  Seems plain enough, and good common sense too!

Humans respond to “approval,” functioning best when they know they are appreciated and held in esteem.  This applies to both sexes and at all ages.  Within the context of a marriage, approval, appreciation and esteem are all synonymous with “love.” 

Men, the conclusion is very real.  If you want to get the most out of a marriage, love your wives.

The other side of the coin is well represented by the conservative Jewish author Michael Medved, who in writing about his own life and a failed first marriage entitled the chapter, “No marriage is solid enough to take for granted.”  It’s a sobering admonition, because every marriage is in danger of being taken for granted.

The antidote is to constantly renew your marriage, and the key to that is for husbands to love their wives.  The wives will respond!

Dr. Ed Young, Pastor of the huge Second Baptist Church in Houston, was addressing the subject recently in his TV program filmed at the church.  His message to the men in the congregation was simple.  “Your wife is a gift from God that you are to spend a lifetime unwrapping!” 

Remember how wondrous were our wives when we fell in love with them?  Well, they are no less wondrous now, if we will dedicate the time and effort to “continue unwrapping them.”

Dr. Young provided this recipe for husbands to love their wives, keyed to the word LOVE.

L – Listen to your wife.  Look her in the eye.  Tune in.  Repeat what she says so she knows that you heard.

O – Open up.  Speak to her.  Share your thoughts as you did when you first fell in love.

V – Visualize her life.  Walk in her shoes.  See things as she sees them.

E – Encourage her.  She will respond.

 Want to help build a stronger America?  Have a better marriage!  Husbands, love your wives.  Reap the benefits of both!

************************************************************************************

Waking Up In America

At our age, we must be thankful that we wake up at all!  But we must count ourselves especially blessed that we wake up in America!

We are blessed to wake up in a nation that is a “democracy” (actually a representative Republic), where we can elect our own leaders at every level of government.  We are blessed by our governing Constitution, one of the most enlightened and inspired documents (an “event” really) in the history of man.  Our Constitution prescribes our form of government, establishes (and limits) its powers, and attaches the Bill of Rights that ensures our individual freedoms.  It is this Constitution that has successfully launched and guided the “American experiment” that has become the model for mankind. 

In his recent State of the Union speech, President Bush reminded us how successful the model has become.  “Far from being a hopeless dream, the advance of freedom is the greatest story of our time.  In 1945, there were only about two dozen lonely democracies on Earth.  Today there are 122.”

We are also blessed by the “free enterprise” system, which unlocks the innovation and ingenuity of the American people and has produced the greatest standard of living in the history of man.  The fruits of the free enterprise system are evident in our supermarkets, the homes, our automobiles, the cars we drive and the clothes we wear, an economy that provides employment for 2-3 million new workers each year, and a health care system that far surpasses anything available anywhere else.  You can add your items to this list of blessings, and it can go on forever.  We are indeed blessed to wake up in America.

But with all these blessings comes responsibility.  We must also wake up to America!

We must wake up to our responsibility to take part in the representative Republic.  We must become informed on the issues, think through the options, and support candidates that espouse our views.  We must support them with votes, and with our time-talent-treasure. 

We must realize that the first responsibility of our government is to protect our nation, and that includes controlling our borders as well as continuing the fight against terrorism.

In this regard we must support our military personnel, because these are the people who will keep us free.  This means honoring those who serve, paying public tribute to military personnel at every opportunity, and ministering to those families who grieve.

Our freedoms are wondrous, and we are blessed to wake up in America.  But freedom is not free.

************************************************************************************

An Aging Nation

Look around folks.  We’re not just getting older as individuals.  We’re an aging nation.

And I don’t mean just us polka people!  The first of 78 million “boomers” (defined as those born from 1946 to 1964) will turn 60 this year.  They’ll start becoming eligible for early retirement under Social Security in two years, and Medicare in five years.  When this wave of boomers hits these entitlement programs, things will begin to change.  The increase in older people will far outstrip our overall gain in population, and our nation will age.  As these changes play out over the next 15-20 years, America will change.

Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid will face huge deficits, requiring substantial changes in funding, benefits, or both, to remain solvent.  The cries for more prescription medication coverage and long term health care will crescendo, even as the existing programs run out of money.  The “gray group” will wield more political power at the ballot box, increasing resentment among the working age people who are funding the programs.  It’s a recipe for political chaos.

Let’s start with Social Security, which is not sound!  In 1950, there were 16 workers paying to support every beneficiary.  Today, there are only 3.3 workers carrying the same load.  By the time today’s youngest workers retire, there will be only two workers paying for every beneficiary.  That dog won’t hunt!

President Bush had the courage to start Social Security reform this year.  He spent his political capital on it, but was rebuffed by the Democrats, with little help from the Republicans.  Major opposition was mounted by the liberal “Gray Union” known as AARP. 

The opposition by AARP was particularly egregious and short sighted.  Little wonder, when one considers how far left AARP has moved.  Example:  They just selected Harry Belafonte as one recipient of their “Impact Award” for the year.  Harry just returned from meeting with Venezuelan President Chavez (an avowed enemy of the U.S.), where Belafonte called Bush the “world’s biggest terrorist.”  Perhaps it’s time to cut up your AARP card, and try the United Seniors Association “USA Next” as an alternative?   See www.usanext.org.

Our health care is also affected.   Health care costs continue to rise, as technology improves, more life-saving procedures become available, and we live longer to enjoy (?) more of these procedures.  How will Medicare keep up, and why will the working generation be content to continue picking up the tab?

What’s the answer?  Our choices are (1) scale back the benefits, (2) raise taxes to unprecedented levels, or (3) incur huge deficits.  Since #3 isn’t a workable solution, it’s time to face the harsh reality of the tough choices we must make.  And it’s time to stop criticizing any political leader who has the courage and foresight to lead.

************************************************************************************

Resolve...to be a Better Citizen

The New Year is a traditional time to make resolutions.  Lose weight, walk every day, update your wills, be a better friend to your mate, go dancing.  These, and more, are all good and worthwhile.  But how about doing something new this year?  How about resolving to be a better U.S. citizen?

Freedom came easy to most of us.  We were born into it, having been fortunate enough to win life’s lottery and be born in the United States.  Because it came easy, we often forget that freedom is not free.  Our founding fathers, and the intervening waves of “immigrants-made-Americans” have often paid a heavy price to preserve our freedoms.  And it falls to each generation to preserve freedom, resisting not only direct onslaughts but also the more dangerous backsliding or drip-drip-drip of incessant change.

How to preserve our freedoms?  Be a better citizen!

And the starting point is knowledge.  To be a better citizen we must be informed.  This means watching the news (Fox News is recommended), reading the newspapers or Internet sources, reading the Constitution (again), understanding the platforms (beliefs and values) of the major political parties, being alert for biases in the media, and applying our own common sense to cut through the “spin” that clouds and distorts everything we read or hear. 

But just as “faith without works” is incomplete, so to is “knowledge without action!”  Once informed, we must act on our knowledge.  We must vote, every election, local or national, large or small, every time! 

The recent elections in Iraq drive the point home.  Wouldn’t it be something if here in America we could once again become so excited about voting that our turnout would be 70%, and we would all wave our purple fingers proudly (just as we wear our ashes on Ash Wednesday). 

But voting is just for starters.  Other actions include participating in the local politics (election judges are always needed), getting behind a candidate or cause in which you believe and working for it (somebody has to make the calls and do the yard signs), and taking part in political discussions.

Say what?  Talk politics?  How often have you heard “I never talk politics or religion” during the course of a conversation?  Well, even once is too often.  It’s an admission by the person that they are unqualified to enter the discussion.  And they are unqualified because they are not informed.  It’s a tragic admission.

Other ways to act?  Become involved in charitable activities.  Help the elderly, or the sick.  Volunteer at your church.  The list is endless.   Give not only of your treasure, but also your time and talent.

************************************************************************************

The Death of Christmas

We hope that you and your loved ones have a very Merry Christmas happy winter holiday!

While my sentiment is real, my message has been revised so that it’s politically correct, in accord with the agnostics and atheists, the ACLU and liberal judges, and some Muslims and Jews, all of whom are determined to take Christmas out of Christmas. 

No folks, I am not giving in to these pressures, and neither should you.  I just wanted to get your attention, because the problem is real, and we have been losing.

We have already almost lost the battle to keep Christ in Christmas.  We know this because the battleground has now shifted to keeping Christmas in Christmas!

The new attack that really blossomed in the last several years seeks the actual elimination of Christmas as the reason for the Holidays!  According to the proponents of this change, the Christmas period should be renamed “Winter Holidays,” so as to include everyone and not “offend” those who worship a different God, or no God, or a different holiday (i.e.; Kwanzaa).  In pursuit of this goal, lawsuits are brought against municipalities who include “Christmas Story” things in displays, or songs, or programs.  Namby-pamby school boards quickly adopt the “Winter Holiday” term, eager to avoid any controversy.

Retailers are succumbing to similar pressures.  This year, “Merry Christmas” has disappeared from the advertising and merchandizing in Sears, K-Mart, and Kohls, while “Happy Holidays” has been adopted by Wal-Mart, Costco and Target. 

Are we going to stand by as Christmas is hijacked and transformed into a secular holiday, totally stripped of any relationship to one of the World’s great religions?  Or are we going to fight back?

It’s a difficult fight to wage, because it must not be based on prejudice.  Just as Christians don’t have anything against Hanukah, we should not oppose or resent similar religious celebrations by others, or their decision to “opt out” of the Christmas celebration.  But there is absolutely no reason why we should consent to the death of Christmas!  It’s our Holiday!

But I sense that we are beginning to win the battle to keep Christmas in Christmas.  We are fighting back.  Groups like the Alliance Defense Fund are doing great work beating back the ACLU.  Their new slogan is “Merry Christmas.  It’s O.K. to say it!”  (See www.saychristmas.org.  You can send their e-card and send a message.)

What else can you do?  Resolve to keep the story of Christ in your personal Christmas celebration next year.  Buy Christmas cards with Christ in them.  Include Christ in your outside displays.  Teach your grandchildren the true meaning of Christmas.  Refuse to succumb to the “Winter Holiday” surrogate.  Tell your retailer that you want Christmas back in Christmas.  Speak up now.  We can win!

Merry Christmas!

************************************************************************************

Defending Marriage

Marriage is under assault across the nation as homosexuals, aided by a sympathetic liberal media, seek to gain recognition of same sex unions.

Now Texans have a unique opportunity to reaffirm the sanctity of marriage by voting FOR Proposition 2 in the Nov. 8 special election. 

Yes, fellow Texans, we do have another election coming up Tuesday, Nov. 8.  Among the items on the ballot will be nine Constitutional Amendments.  One of these, Proposition 2, deals with defining marriage in Texas, and will require your support.  It’s important!

Proposition 2 is “The constitutional amendment providing that marriage in this state consists only of the union of one man and one woman and prohibiting the state or a political subdivision of this state from creating or recognizing any legal status identical or similar to marriage.”  That’s the exact language that will appear on the ballot.

The issue is important, and the language specific.  The intent is to make it unconstitutional in Texas for the state or any local government to sanction or recognize same sex marriage, or any substitute marriage such as same-sex unions.

Now you may be thinking that your vote is not important, and you can cut this election.  Think again!  As an off-year election, turnout is normally very low.  But the homosexual element will be turning out at almost 100%, as they seek official sanction and acceptance of their lifestyle.  More alarming, the homosexual movement nationwide is mobilizing to invade Texas with people and money, because this is the only state where the issue is on the ballot this year.  This is the most important matter in the lives of these people, and they will attempt to outwork, outspend and outvote regular Texans.

This is where you come in.  Your help is needed in defending marriage in Texas!  By helping to spread the word, and turn out the vote, you can help Texas join the 17 states that have already added a definition of traditional marriage to their constitutions. 

President Bush has endorsed a similar amendment to the U.S. Constitution.  Pending that, adding Texas to the states that protect traditional marriage is our best defense against the court decisions and legislative acts that have legalized or recognized same-sex unions in states like Vermont, Massachusetts and Connecticut.

So decide right now that you will be part of the movement to save traditional marriage in Texas!  Decide right now to vote FOR Proposition 2 on Tuesday, Nov. 8!  Decide right now to talk about this issue with your friends before Nov. 8, and urge their support!  Decide right now to help save traditional marriage!!!

For info on the election and the other eight amendments, see the website of the Secretary of State at www.sos.state.tx.us, click on elections.

************************************************************************************

The Looting of Katrina

Katrina was a significant natural disaster.  While its death toll will be far less than the 1900 Galveston hurricane or the 1906 San Francisco earthquake and fire, its financial impact will be the largest ever.  And the suffering is huge, real, and current.

Living in Houston and in harms way for future hurricanes, I took the opportunity to get directly involved in Katrina relief by making a substantial contribution to the Salvation Army (my favorite help agency), and by volunteering four full days (so far) helping with evacuees in the Houston Astrodomain (“Astroville”).  I say this not for credit, but as credentials for the following concerns.

I am concerned about “The Looting of Katrina.”  But not in the way you may be thinking!

Of course, I share your outrage about the looting that took place in New Orleans following the breakdown in law and order.  I understand looting for food and water, but looting of other merchandize is an outrage, and an indictment of the people who did it.  The Mayor and Governor should have declared Martial Law, and the looters shot, as was done in both Galveston and San Francisco.  But that’s not the looting that concerns me most.  There are two other forms of looting that are worse.

First is the “looting” of the Katrina disaster to gain political advantage and pass the buck.  The Mayor of New Orleans and the Governor of Louisiana are the principal looters here, attempting to cover their own incompetence and negligence by blaming the Federal Government.  It was the Mayor and the Governor (and their predecessors) who accepted and lived with a levy system designed for only a force three hurricane.  It was the Mayor and Governor that failed to prepare and activate an adequate emergency response plan.  It was the Mayor and Governor that refused to request Federal assistance and troops until it was too late, in spite of President Bush’s call to the Governor urging her to do so.  It was the Mayor who had no plan to care for refugees in the Superdome, and no plan to keep the important pumps running.  The list of their failures goes on and on.  Yet they blame the Federal Government at every turn, with the eager help of the liberal media.  Yes folks, the local and state LA governments are the true looters of the Katrina disaster, aided and abetted by the liberal media.

But they may turn out to be pikers in the looting game, depending on how the Katrina recovery efforts are managed.  The Katrina reconstruction money that will flow into Louisiana will be immense.  How will it be managed and controlled?  Will the looting of Katrina reach even more preposterous levels? 

We shall see.  Meanwhile, the Katrina victims in Mississippi and Alabama continue to get little notice, or the attention they deserve, which is a national disgrace.

************************************************************************************

A Purpose Driven Life

What on earth am I here for?

It’s a question that we ask ourselves throughout our life – at least from time to time – as we deal with life.  It’s the question posed in the bestseller book, “The Purpose Driven Life,” by Rick Warren, a Southern Baptist pastor.  The interesting thing is that Rev. Warren provides some answers.  Or perhaps he just presents information and poses questions that help us to find our own answers, as we search for “purpose in our lives.”

Like many in our nation last March, I was captivated by the courage and character of Ashley Smith, the young Atlanta mother who saved her own life (and perhaps others) by reading to her captor, who had gone on a killing rampage in the Atlanta Courtroom before escaping and ultimately taking Ashley hostage.  The book she used to break through to her captor?  The Purpose Driven Life!  Her subsequent TV accounts of the relationship with her captor were fascinating, and the nation was struck by her quiet purpose and faith.

It prompted me to buy the book.  I’m glad I did.

“The Purpose Driven Life” is an easy and uplifting read.  Pastor Warren has packaged the message into 40 chapters, designed to be read one per day.  This allows for “soak time” to marinate in your own thoughts.  The thoughts are provoked by a reflection question posed at the end of each chapter.

Each short Chapter takes only 5-10 minutes to read, but thinking about the message can take longer.  Each Chapter begins with a “theme sentence” to give you a hint about its message.  For example, Chap. 1 starts, “It’s not about you.”  Chap. 2, “You are not an accident.”  Chap. 3, “Everyone’s life is driven by something.”  You get the idea.  Of interest, Ashley Smith was on Chapter 33 the day of her captivity, and the theme sentence of what she read to her captor was, “We serve God by serving others.”

The Purpose Driven Life is an uplifting, if disquieting, read.  It has been disquieting to me because it made me think, jarring the complacency that had crept into my religious life over the years.  It might do the same favor (?) for you. 

It’s best read with a highlighter in hand, because it is filled with memorable and insightful phrases, many of which you will find in the “filler boxes” of this newspaper.  My copy is heavily highlighted, because it lets me go back and review quickly. 

For example, Chap. 3 on “What Drives Your Life” is very thought provoking.  It ends by posing the reflection question, “What would my family and friends say is the driving force of my life?  What do I want it to be?”  The rest of the book helps you search for answers.

************************************************************************************

The New Wars for Independence

On July 4, 1776, under the leadership of great men who pledged “our lives, our fortunes and our sacred honor,” this Nation embarked upon its War for Independence.  Thus began several decades of hardship, suffering and finally victory as a Nation emerged with a new Constitution in 1789.  The Nation that our founders conceived and brought forth has become the model for self-government, prosperity, and freedom. 

But freedom is not free, and not permanent.  History tells us that every great civilization declines and fails.  Every generation must fight another War of Independence.  We face several battle-grounds that are our New Wars of Independence.

Control of our borders.  We are under attack at our borders, being overrun by populations eager to share in the benefits of America.  Yes, America is a nation of immigrants, and we do need additional people because our own birth rate has fallen below replacement levels.  But the uncontrolled floods of people coming across our borders threaten our existence and our economy as our schools and hospitals sag under the load of non-citizens.  Then too we have the issue of terrorists also gaining access to this country through uncontrolled immigration, and visas sans enforcement.  Our nation is being invaded, yet our elected representatives refuse to address the issue.  Uncontrolled immigration has become our own winter in Valley Forge!

Aborting our own.  Succumbing to the siren song of the Women’s movement and declining morality, we destroy innocent life in the womb, either unwilling to recognize it as life, or worse yet, not caring that it’s life.  Since the Roe vs. Wade decision, about 40 million “Americans” have been aborted.  What could have been accomplished by this wasted resource if they had been allowed to live and become English speaking productive citizens?  Would we have needed the 12-20 million illegals that have entered our country?

Judicial assault on the Constitution.  Make no mistake folks, the liberal Judges that view our Constitution as a “living document” are another battleground in our new wars for independence.  Each time the activist judges legislate from the bench with their personal views of “what ought to be” they are exceeding their authority, violating the constitution, and eroding our independence.  It’s as plain as the Declaration of Independence!  If you weaken the Constitution, or change its meaning, it is an assault on independence. 

War on terror, and radical Muslims.  Remember the attacks on America?  This war is now underway in Iraq, southeast Asia, and around the world.  The radical Muslims run schools to train America-hating youth.  They will attack again, which is why we must continue to fight for our freedom

These are just four of our battlegrounds.  We are all soldiers in the New Wars for Independence.  Attention!!!

************************************************************************************

Taxed Out of Home?

How many Texans get a 7-9% increase in their income every year?  Not too many, we think.  Except for all the taxing authorities across the state such as cities, counties, and school districts.  They all get it!  And then they spend it.

How does this happen?  Well, their income comes from your taxes.  And the property tax income for many of these taxing authorities goes up about 7-9 % per year, because of the increase in market value of existing properties, such as your home.

State law requires that the County Appraisal Districts (CAD’s) across the state value all properties at market value.  The taxing authorities then use these market values as the basis for calculating your tax.  So if the market value of your property is increasing, your taxes go up accordingly.  This can go on year after year. 

But existing law caps the increase for taxing purposes at 10% per year, which means that your tax bill cannot go up more than 10% per year.  This is good, except that the 10% cap is too high!  At 10% per year, a tax bill doubles in about 10 years!  That just doesn’t make sense.  Many homeowners can’t afford it.  And the taxing authorities should not be entitled to take it!

That’s why many (including Governor Rick Perry) are leading a statewide effort to reduce the cap to 3-5% per year.  It makes sense.  Why should taxing authorities be entitled to automatic increases in their income that are 3-4 times inflation?  (Don’t forget that their income is also increasing from new houses being taxed in any community that is developing new homes.)

But the effort in the Texas Legislature to reduce the cap failed again this year!  It failed because of the unified opposition of the taxing authorities (cities, counties, school districts) who don’t want to see their golden goose cooked.  They exerted their influence on members of the Texas Legislature through organization such as the Texas Municipal League, the Association of Counties and others.  So the tax and spend politicians and the taxing authorities were the winners.  Guess who lost!  (Clue – look in the mirror.)

The effort to reduce the cap was led by Gov. Perry, a majority of the Republican Legislators, a few stalwart elected officials (notably Harris County Tax Assessor-Collector Paul Bettancourt), and Conservative Talk Radio Station KSEV out of Tomball (Houston) Texas.  KSEV got involved in this issue over the past several years as owner/general manager Dan Patrick took on the injustice of the 10% cap and started the campaign for a 3% cap.

************************************************************************************

Fixing Social Security

Folks, it’s time to face the facts.  Social Security needs fixing!

One of the great social programs of our times, Social Security has been a resounding success.  It has provided a safety net and security for aging Americans.  It is part of our culture.  It must be preserved and made sound for future generations.

But Social Security is not sound!  It is a victim of our changing population.  In 1950, there were 16 workers paying to support every beneficiary.  Today, there are only 3.3 workers carrying the same load.  When “baby boomers” begin to retire in eight years, things really get sticky.  By the time today’s youngest workers retire, there will be only two workers paying for every beneficiary.

Right now, Social Security taxes paid by workers and their employers exceed the payments to beneficiaries.  The surplus is used to fund other government programs.  As taxpayers we are currently benefiting from this surplus.  But by 2017 it turns around, and payments will exceed the payroll taxes.  This deficit will need to be made up somehow.  On top of that, today’s 30-year-old worker will face a 27% cut in benefits when they retire! Face it folks, the system is broken! 

The bottom line is that Social Security is sound for today’s seniors and those nearing retirement, but it needs to be fixed for younger workers.  To most of us, this means our children and grandchildren!  And it’s our responsibility.

President Bush wants to fix the program now.  His vision is no changes for today’s retirees or near retirees.  If your over 55 you’ll get your check.  Absolute and unequivocal!  But Bush also wants to strengthen Social Security for our children and grandchildren, without raising payroll taxes!  To do this, he has asked Congress to work together on legislation.  Ideas that have been suggested include limiting benefits for wealthy retirees, indexing the increases in benefits to prices (instead of wages), increasing the retirement age, and provide disincentives for early retirement.  All these ideas should be on the table.

Bush also wants Congress to create a voluntary option for personal retirement accounts.  Under this plan, younger workers could direct a portion of their Social Security taxes into a personal account, in their name, that belongs to them.  The money in the personal account would be placed in low risk investments where it would grow.  Upon retirement, the account would be used to supplement regular Social Security payments, which by that time may not have kept pace because of the deficit in Social Security. 

There is much opposition to fixing Social Security, led by AARP.  Such opposition is groundless.  We long ago quit AARP and have joined USA Next.  We get the same benefits.  See www.USAnext.org.

************************************************************************************

Controlling our Borders

        The United States is being invaded!  From the south, the illegals come streaming across our unprotected border in vast numbers from Mexico and other countries of origin in Central or South America.  On the east and west coasts, the legal immigrants come flooding in from the Middle East and Asia.  On our northern border with Canada, who knows?  We are being invaded!

Not that I am opposed to legal immigration!  Except for the Native Americans, we are all immigrants.  Like the current hordes, our ancestors came here in search of something better.  They worked hard, learned the language and became part of America.  There is still a place for legal, controlled immigration.

But we also have the right to control that immigration.  To decide who comes, and how many.  To put limits on welfare and medical services.  To require that English be learned and used as the official language.  To retain control of our borders and our country.

This is clearly the role of our federal government, and they are not doing it!  Plenty of blame to go around, but it rests mostly on our agencies (INS) and our policy makers (elected federal representatives).  And this is not a Republican or Democrat issue!  Neither party has been willing to take a stand to protect our borders.  Both have failed to act effectively. 

I believe that conservatives are a little more likely to address the issue than liberals, given that the liberals are the promoters of immigration, welfare and “motor-voter” legislation to get them all voting, citizens or not.  But Republican officials are no better.  They refuse to act effectively.  And that includes the Bush Administration!

What needs to be done?  Here’s a seven point plan. 

First, vigorously implement the new Department of Homeland Security, splitting the INS into two separate organizations, one to control the borders and the other to deal with immigrants and aliens.

Second, control our border with Mexico, using the military, coupled with new security fences and electronics. 

Third, establish a worker program for people from this hemisphere, with rigid reporting & tracking requirements.  We need to welcome these workers, and recognize that the money they send back to their families is the most effective and humanitarian foreign aid we can provide.

Fourth, change our laws so that persons born in this country to non-citizens are also non-citizens.

Fifth, limit bilingual education to six months (before mainstreaming students) and make English our official language.

Sixth, limit medical care, welfare and free education for illegals. 

Seventh, severely restrict legal immigration of Middle East nationalities until we can better understand the nature of the terrorist threat facing us. 

************************************************************************************

Bush Leads

President Bush has delivered two remarkable speeches recently, his Second Inaugural address on Jan. 20 and the State of the Union speech on Feb. 2.  Both speeches were optimistic and visionary, perhaps even extraordinary.  Time will tell of course, and much depends upon the long-term outcome of freedom and democracy in Iraq.  But we may be witnessing one of the great leaders in our nation’s history.  Here’s why.

In his Second Inaugural address, Bush committed our nation and challenged the world to seek and promote freedom throughout the world.  “There is only one force of history that can break the reign of hatred and resentment, and expose the pretensions of tyrants, and reward the hopes of the decent and tolerant, and that is the force of human freedom.”  Bush continued, “…no one is fit to be a master, and no one deserves to be a slave.”  He committed the United States to seek and support the growth of democratic movements and institutions in every nation and culture. 

Bush is encouraging and unleashing the power of freedom as a force for world security.  In doing this, Bush made numerous references to God and the Almighty, reaffirming his belief in a Creator, and the moral values that accompany the world’s great religions.

Detractors wondered if Bush sees too far, envisions too much, and is trying for more than can be achieved.  His response is in the speech.  “From the viewpoint of centuries, the questions that come to us are narrowed and few.  Did our generation advance the cause of freedom?  And did our character bring credit to the cause?”

The State of the Union address was the second remarkable speech.  Bush addressed three main topics. 

First, being good stewards of the economy and renewing our great institutions.  He outlined plans to continue to improve the economy, education, legal reform, health care, an energy plan and Clear Skies legislation, tax code simplification, immigration reform, and social security.  All are important, and Bush outlined plans for each.  But he also had the courage and foresight to tackle social security, boldly facing the problems now, while still fixable.  He assured the seniors that no one over 55 would be affected, and outlined plans to help shore up the system for younger workers with personalized accounts.

Second, to honor and pass along the values that sustain a free economy.  He supported a constitutional amendment defining marriage, will seek to protect life of human embryos, and much more.

Third, he addressed world security with peace plans for the middle east while confronting nations that harbor terrorists.  The outcome of efforts to establish a democracy in Iraq while defending the U.S. and the world against terrorism are keys.

************************************************************************************

I'm Thankful For...Supermarkets!

I’m writing this on Thanksgiving morning, a day on which our nation gives thanks.  We are unique among the nations of the world in marking an official day to give thanks.  But in a sense, the entire Holiday Season kindles thoughts of our lives, our loved ones, and our blessings.  In the hopes of extending that Holiday feeling just a little, I would like to share with you what I am thankful for.

I am thankful for Supermarkets!

Say what?  Before you conclude that I am being flippant or trivial, consider for a moment the absolute magnificence of a modern grocery supermarket, and more importantly, what it represents.

First, let’s review our typical visit to a supermarket.  You park you auto, walk in, and there before you are aisle after aisle of magnificent produce, canned goods, meats fish & poultry, house wares, flowers, baked goods, and the list goes on and on.  You grab a basket, make your choices from amid the plenty, and check out at the counter or self service stand, perhaps paying by check or credit card.  Then you are on your ways, without a thought for the magnificence of the institution you have just left.

But let’s look at it with new eyes.  Pretend that you have never seen a supermarket before.  What do you see?

You see the bounty of a fruitful nation laid out before you in magnificent splendor.  You begin to ponder that such bounty could only be possible in a nation of free people working together in what has become the most productive society in the history of mankind.

You wonder about why this has all come to pass, and reach the conclusion that such productivity must have something to do with both the people, and the government by those people. 

The people brought with them a belief in God, and the resolve to respect, worship and thank that God.  They wrote that respect directly into the documents that established our government, and guaranteed the right to worship as we see fit.

The people established a Republic – a representative Democracy – that has become the model for freedom of mankind, and the foundation of our success and productivity.  The Constitution devised by our God-fearing founding fathers provides the freedom that has allowed the development of the capitalistic system.  That capitalistic system, coupled with the work ethic of our Puritan ancestors and our immigrants, supported be a belief in a Higher Being, has resulted in the most productive and free nation in the world.

And so when we walk into a supermarket, we see it all right there before us.  The natural resources of a great land, developed by the hard work of a people made free and unfettered by our Constitution and form of government.

************************************************************************************

The First Right

“And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger, because there was no room for him in the inn.” 

Luke 2:7

***********************************

“Guided by ultrasound, the abortionist grabs the baby’s legs with forceps.  The baby’s leg is pulled out into the birth canal.  The abortionist delivers the baby’s entire body, except for the head.  The abortionist jams scissors into the baby’s skull.  The scissors are then opened to enlarge the hole.  The scissors are removed and a suction catheter is inserted.  The child’s brains are sucked out, causing the skull to collapse.  The dead baby is then removed.”  (Partial birth abortion procedure from National Right to Life Committee web site)

*******************************

There have been over 40 million abortions in the 30 years since the U.S. Supreme Court legalized abortion.  This number dwarfs the six million victims of Hitler’s “final solution.”  If 40 million is hard to envision, try 3,500 per day, or about 10 little lives terminated in the time it will take you to read (and think about) this column. 

Yet we as a nation condone it, either denying the obvious biological fact that it is a human life, or worse yet, knowing that it is life, and not caring!  That’s the really frightening part, especially for seniors watching new generations take control with no respect for life.  We have taught them life does not matter.  These are the people who will govern us as we age.

While any abortion takes a human life, the partial birth abortion seems particularly reprehensible.   A nearly developed baby is extracted feet first, leaving the head in the birth canal so that the child is not legally born.  Then it is killed.

In the 1990’s, Congress twice passed laws prohibiting partial birth abortion.  In keeping with the Democratic Party pro-abortion platform (then and now), Clinton vetoed the legislation twice.  In 2003, Congress again passed the ban on partial birth abortion.  Pres. Bush enthusiastically signed the legislation in November 2003.

Within an hour a federal judge had stayed the ban!  So the liberals, who finally lost on this issue because almost all Republicans and some Democrats realize the horror of deliberately killing an almost-born baby, are now opposing the will of the people by using the courts.

This is one reason why the re-election of President Bush was so important.  (Kerry had voted six times against banning partial birth abortion.)  Looking forward, Bush needs to continue appointing judges that will enforce the Constitution as written, without finding excuses to engage in liberal social agenda such as promoting abortion.  And the Senate needs to confirm these appointments, overcoming the opposition of the Democrats that stifled appointments in 2003-04.

************************************************************************************

War on Terror

The 3^rd anniversary of Sept. 11 has caused us all to reflect upon that tragedy, and the War on Terror.  It is the War that President Bush has correctly called the “War of the 21^st Century.”  It is a war that we were slow to recognize, and slow to name.  But the vantage of hindsight makes it clear.  Consider the following.

1979 - Iranians attack our embassy in Tehran and held captive many Americans.

1983 -U.S. Embassy bombed in Beirut and 63 people killed.

1983 - U.S. Marine barracks blown up in Beirut killing 241 marines

1983 - U.S. Kuwait Embassy bombed

1984 - U.S. Beirut Embassy bombed

1985 - U.S. Air Base attacked with a car bomb in Germany killing 22 people.

1985 - Achille Lauro hijacked and one wheel chair bound American is executed.

1986 - TWA Flight 840 hijacked and four are killed

1988 – Pan Am Flight 103 bombed over Lockerbie, Scotland, killing 259.

1993 - World Trade Center bombed killing six and wounding over a thousand.

1995 - U.S. military base bombed in Saudi Arabia killing 19 wounding over 500

1998 - U.S. Embassies bombed in Kenya and Tanzania killing 258

2000 - U.S.S. Cole attacked; 17 killed

2001 - Four planes are hijacked.  The World Trade Center is destroyed, and the Pentagon hit.  Thousands die.  Destruction of the Capital or White House averted by heroic action of the passengers in 4^th plane.

Yes folks, it is War, and our enemy has a face.  They are Muslim extremists of various nationalities, but with allegiance only to their cause.  They consider all non-Muslim “infidels,” and the U.S. to be “The Great Satan.”

Bush has faced this War on Terror, taking the War to the terrorists in Afghanistan, in Iraq, and through the governments, law enforcement and financial institutions of the world.  More than three quarters of al-Qaida’s key members and associates have been detained or killed.  Saddam Hussein is gone and free democratic elections are pending in Iraq.  Libya is dismantling its weapons program.  More than 50 million people have been liberated.  It’s a start, in a War on Terror that will be long, difficult and costly.

Kerry says he would be tough on terror too.  But let’s look at his actual voting record as a U.S. Senator.  He voted against the B1 & B2 bombers, the F-14A Tomcat and the F-15 Eagle, the Apache Helicopter, the Patriot Missile, the Aegis air-defense cruiser, the Strategic Defense initiative, and the Trident Missile.  He also voted not to fund the war in Iraq.  Against, against, against!

************************************************************************************

Clear Choices 2004

It’s election year folks, and many will tune out, justifying their apathy on the basis that the candidates “are all the same.” 

Well, these persons couldn’t be more wrong!  The parties and candidates are not the same.  In fact, we have Clear Choices between conservative and liberal philosophies.  Let’s review these two basic philosophies. 

Conservatives believe that free enterprise provides opportunity, and that our capitalistic system (with our Constitution) has produced the greatest nation on earth.  Liberals believe in the capitalistic system also (except for the far left liberals who are socialists), but they believe that the federal government should play a stronger role and that more federal programs are needed. 

Conservatives believe in reducing tax burdens while liberals favor higher taxes to fund more government programs and redistribution of wealth.  Conservatives believe there is no such thing as “government money” because it all belongs to the taxpayers.  Liberals generally view tax cuts as a problem because reduced government income could force the government to restrain its growth.

Conservatives support strong national defense, generally voting to increase the size and funding of the military.  Liberals generally favor reducing defense budgets in favor of increased government entitlements and programs.

Conservatives support minimizing government regulation, while liberals support more regulation, particularly at the federal level.

Conservatives support capital punishment while liberals oppose it.  Conservatives support the 2^nd Amendment and the right to bear arms while liberals favor gun control.  Conservatives believe that victims of crime should have more rights than criminals.  Liberals, exemplified by the ACLU, go to great lengths to defend the rights of those who have broken the law.

Conservatives support local control of schools; reducing the power of the federal Department of Education; and vouchers to allow citizens to choose their own schools and bring free market forces into play to improve schools.  Liberals believe in more federal control of education.

Conservatives are almost always pro-life.  Liberals are almost always pro-abortion.  This is a stark difference.  And it matters!

So the choices are clear.  In the Presidential election, George Bush and Dick Cheney are conservative.  John Kerry and John Edwards are liberal.  Kerry’s voting record in 16 years as a U.S. Senator is one of the most liberal in the nation.  In fact, his voting record is more liberal that fellow Massachusetts Senator Ted Kennedy. 

************************************************************************************

Why Bush is Best

I will be supporting the President George Bush in the election Nov. 2.  A decent respect for your opinions suggests that I tell you why.

First, because he is honest!  If you want to know what George W. is going to do, just listen to what he says.  He said he wanted to cut taxes.  He did.  He said he was for a strong military, and he has revitalized our Armed Forces.  He said that we would take the fight to the terrorists, and he has.  He called the governments of Iraq, Iran and North Korea evil, and they are (or were, in the case of Iraq).  Yes, if you want to know what George Bush will do, just listen to what he says.  He’s honest.

Second, because he has had the courage to take preemptive military action against Al Quaeda by invading Afghanistan to overthrow the militant Muslim Taliban government.  According to the pending report of the 911 Commission, the U.S. led effort against Al Quaeda in Afghanistan and in the international financial and law enforcement venues has been tremendously effective in neutralizing the terrorist network.  (The liberal media refuse to report this finding, but it’s in the draft report.)

Third, he had the courage to invade Iraq and oust the evil regime of Saddam Hussein, putting together a sizeable coalition to assist in this effort.  Saddam was feared by his Arab neighbors and a source of terrorism in the entire Mid-East.  This pre-emptive action of taking the fight to the enemy means that we’re fighting the battle of terrorism in their back yard, rather than here in the U.S.

Fourth, because his economic policies and the tax cut that he sought have pulled the nation out of the recession that he inherited into a period of strong economic growth.  This has been achieved in spite of the great economic hit from 911, the corporate scandals that had all their roots in the 1990s, and the market jitters that went with the invasion of Iraq.

Fifth, because he is pro-life, believing that abortion is wrong.  To that end under his leadership Congress enacted the bill to prohibit partial birth abortion, the hideous practice of killing the infant as it is being born.  (Note that John Kerry has voted six different times to allow this practice to continue.)

Sixth, because he has sought an energy policy that includes expanding production of our own petroleum and natural gas resources, rather than mindlessly going down the road of increasing dependence upon foreign sources of energy.  (The Democratic opposition has stalled this legislation, but that’s not Bush’s fault).

And seventh, because he has surrounded himself with persons of integrity, regardless of race, who are able to do the job.  This includes Laura Bush, a first Lady with class of whom we can all be proud. 

************************************************************************************

Rediscovering Reagan

Ronald Wilson Reagan died June 5th at age 93, after a long battle with Alzheimer’s.  Reagan was lifeguard and athlete, radio announcer and movie actor, California Governor and national statesman, conservative spokesman and public speaker, and 40^th President of the United States.  He helped change America, for the better.  Much better!

How so?  Well, consider the following.  When Ronald Reagan became President inflation was about 13% per year, interest rates almost 20%, and unemployment about 10%.  We were in the malaise of Jimmy Carter.  Remember the “misery index” reaching an all time high?  Americans were held hostage in Iran, and we had lost our faith in ourselves as a nation. 

Within four years, Reagan changed all that, won over millions of Democrats, and was re-elected in 1984 winning 49 of the 50 states (Mondale carried only his home state of MN, and that just barely).

True, the Reagan revolution had some pain, with the recession of 1981-82 increasing unemployment for a time.  But Reagan enacted his big tax cuts, implemented regulatory relief (less regulation), and called upon the Democratically-controlled Congress to control the growth of government.  Even though Congress failed to control spending and deficits rose, Reagan’s tax cuts and optimistic leadership fashioned an economic recovery that gave him the mandate of 1984, and set the stage for the prosperity of the 1990’s.   

On the international scene, Iran promptly released the hostages.  Reagan took a tough stance against Russia, whom he labeled the Evil Empire.  He stood up to the USSR (remember the meetings with Gorbachev, who became his friend?), and in Berlin issued the challenge to “Tear down this wall.”  And it came to pass, along with the even more significant crumbling of the USSR itself and the fall of the Iron Curtain.  Yes, Ronald Reagan won the cold war!  That in turn opened up the “peace dividend” exploited by Clinton in the 90’s.

What were the qualities of this man that united the American people and overcame his opponents?  Much has been said about his affability and ability to communicate, as if being congenial and a good communicator was all he had going.  But those who would limit Reagan to being a kindly communicator don’t understand the greatness of the man. 

First of all, Reagan strongly believed in the goodness and greatness of the American people.  He believed that government was the problem, not the solution.  He was a man of great faith in God, with boundless optimism about a nation that he saw as a “Shining City on a Hill.”  He took pre-emptive action, and believed we had the right to do so.  Secondly, Reagan was unshakable in his beliefs, while considerate of other views.  He was strongly pro-God, pro-life, pro-heterosexual marriage and pro-American.  He made us believe in ourselves. 

(posted 7/21/04)

************************************************************************************

Jihad 101

Most of us believe that we are involved in a “War on Terror,” but really don’t understand exactly who or what we are fighting.  We think only about today, based on the recent past, and lack the insight of a big picture.  That’s why the following short course on the “Third Great Jihad” can be helpful. 

A Jihad is a holy war, waged on behalf of Islam as a holy duty.  The first great Jihad began after the Islam religion was established by Mohammad, and lasted about 700 years.  During this Jihad (which included the period we know as the Crusades), Islam grew to be one of the world’s great religions before finally being expelled from the continent of Europe in the battle of Granada (1492). 

The second great Jihad came with the Ottoman Turks, who greatly expanded Muslim territories and vanquished Christian Constantinople.  The Ottoman Turk Jihad ultimately fragmented, spawning the development of many sects, including Wahhabiism in the Arabian peninsula about the time of WWI.  This Wahhabi version of Islam has infected the religion, especially the Shiites.

Wahhabiism calls for the complete and total rejection or destruction of anything not based on the original teachings of Mohammed, and is best demonstrated by the actions of the Ayatollah Khoumeini in Iran and the Afghan Taliban.  Its leader is now Usama bin Laden, the leader of the Third Great Jihad, who is Wahhabi, as were his 9/11 attack teams, 18 of which were also Saudi.

The Third Great Jihad did not begin with 9/11.  Their first great victory was the overthrow of the Shah of Iran, who was attempting to “westernize” his Muslim country and establish ties with the U.S.  Aided by the ineptness of the Carter administration, the overthrow of Iran was successful and the Third Great Jihad gained a base of operations and the oil wealth of Iran.  Remember “Americans held hostage” in Iran?

The plan for the Third Great Jihad is to replace secular governments in all Arab nations with Muslim majorities.  They successfully assassinated Sadat in Egypt, and have made multiple attempts on the lives of Hussein in Jordan, Mubarak of Egypt, and Musharraf in Pakistan.  Pakistan is a special target, because it has nuclear weapons.  Their ultimate goal is to eliminate Israel, and ultimately “the Great Satan” (that means you, folks!).

Yes, we are at war!  While 9/11 was “Pearl Harbor” for this war, it was preceded by many acts of terrorism.  The Bush administration understands all this.  We have ousted the Taliban, and are attempting to establish a democracy in Iraq.  We have taken the fight to the terrorists, instead of waiting for them to attack us.  It is the only way to win. 

But to continue winning, we must all understand that militant Moslems have declared war on us.  A war that will last decades and centuries. We must have leaders dedicated to the defense of America and taking the war to the enemy.  Consider carefully the two options.

(posted 6/23/04)

************************************************************************************

The Hand That Rocks..

Mother's Day Commentary 

I watch them getting out of their SUVs, their charges in tow.  They are young, perhaps twenties and thirties mostly.  They are clean and neat, but in everyday clothes; they are presentable but not primped.  They are diverse in color and character.  But they have one thing in common.  They are “moms” bringing their children to “Mother’s Day Out” for a few hours.

       I watch them, and reflect on how important they are.  Their 3-5 year old charges mill around them, responding to and sometimes testing the mother’s control.  Every instant of being a “mom” is important, because every instant these young minds are absorbing and imprinting the “rules” of being a human being.  The perennial questions of “why” (and how) are always there, spoken or silent. 

A “mom” is constantly writing on a blank slate, forging a person who will be one of our “replacements.”  Truly, the hand that rocks the cradle rules the world!

So why do so many moms forsake their most noble and important natural profession to seek “careers?”  Why do we find more and more children being raised mostly by day care workers, sans values?

One reason may be that the feminist movement has misled American women.  They have put forth the siren song that “you can have it all,” luring young women into the working world while suggesting that being a “mom” is not a fulfilling career.

However, the feminists are just plain wrong!  The idea that being a “mom” is not fulfilling defies our own experience and common sense.  And when you consider the failure of day care centers in printing good values on their wards, it turns out you can’t have it all! 

Some mothers may forsake being a full time “mom” to make ends meet, or to maintain a higher life style.  Those who must have two incomes have no choice.  But those who trade off the vital role of forming their children just to obtain a higher standard of living clearly have misplaced priorities.  There can be no higher standard of living than equipping your children with higher standards!

       As we mark this Mother’s day, our best hope is that more and more young women (and men too) will choose to be professional “moms” and home managers.  There is no more important role.  The hand that rocks the cradle rules the world.  

(posted 4/22/04)

************************************************************************************

The Passion

We saw Mel Gibson’s production of “The Passion of The Christ” on Ash Wednesday.  We thought that it might give special meaning to the day.  It did!

Much has been written and said about this movie, for and against.  I will add mine, and it’s “for.” 

First, a few words about what it is not.  It is not anti-Semitic.  Jews are portrayed both favorably and unfavorably, reflecting the reality of a divided populace.  Those who had welcomed Christ into Jerusalem the previous week against the Jewish leaders who were threatened by Jesus and responding to their perceived duty to protect the faith.  The errors of the leaders are beautifully balanced by the empathy of those who cried out against the persecution of Christ.  No, it is not anti-Semitic!

And it is not unnecessarily “gory.”  Yes, it is violent, shockingly so, and not suitable for young children.  But how can a scourging and crucifixion not be violent?  Are we somehow to be protected from the violence of the real Passion, yet exposed to the mindless violence of modern TV, movies and video games?  No, it is not unnecessarily gory.  Rather, it is appropriately realistic!

Yes, the Passion of The Christ is realistic.  For me, it performed the valuable service of making Jesus more human.  Why is this important?  Because unless we understand the humanity of Jesus, we can’t appreciate the divinity of Jesus!

I first encountered this decades ago when reading, “The Day Christ Died” by Jim Bishop.  Although raised a Catholic, I learned more about the real Jesus in this book than in all my years of going to church.  That book first made Jesus human for me.  The Passion of The Christ has refreshed and reinforced this, and I am grateful to Mel Gibson for it.

The movie is true to the Gospels.  The use of only Aramaic and Latin increases the realism.  The visual messages and emotions are so clear that understanding the words is unnecessary (thus also avoiding the trap of “inventing” dialogue).  Also, Gibson uses “flashbacks” to break the horror of the suffering, and to more completely tell the story. 

Yes, the Passion of The Christ is an important new message, a message needed in our times, when the secular world wants to proclaim God dead, or irrelevant.

Why do the secular media and the elitist left so strongly denounce the movie?  Because they fear it, just as the Jewish Sanhedrin feared Jesus!  So look for the attacks to continue.  (Example:  Andy Rooney on CBS’ show 60 Minutes, with an attack on religion and Mel Gibson.)

My response is to encourage you to see the movie, perhaps during Holy Week.  Form your own opinion.  See if it doesn’t make a difference in your life.  And then act on that difference.

(posted 4/22/04)

************************************************************************************

Choose or Lose

(The Coarsening of America)

The coarsening of our nation continues.  The Superbowl halftime show illustrates the depths to which we have declined.  The entire show was disgusting, offensive, demeaning, and in poor taste.  In some ways, we may owe Janet Jackson a nod of thanks for highlighting the depravity of the entire show!

Faced with an opportunity to provide a halftime show for 80 million viewers that was wholesome, uplifting and entertaining, the NFL opted instead to hire MTV.  They knew what they were hiring, and they got it.  No slack for the NFL, or for CBS!

MTV says they are sorry.  That’s true.  They’re very sorry in their entire programming, lack of values, and contribution to the decline of morals in this country.  They’re a very sorry lot, indeed!  Polluting TV and poisoning our children.

MTV did what they did intentionally.  By their own admission on Feb. 3, the halftime show was intended to publicize their new “Choose or Lose” political campaign to influence their audience to vote in the coming election.  (Talk about the NFL being used!)  MTV launched that campaign with full-page ads on Feb. 1. 

But the coarsening of our nation is certainly not limited to MTV.  Examples.

Presidential candidate John Kerry finds it necessary to intentionally use the word “f_____g” on an MTV interview (apparently trying to be hip with their audience).  Candidate Wesley Clark poses for the cover of “The Advocate” (Feb. issue) wearing the white T-shirt and cap recognized as a uniform of a homosexual.  Candidate Howard Dean stands next to a performer who uses many four-letter words in his introductory remarks, and Dean does nothing to distance himself from the remarks.

Madonna and Brittany do their female open-mouth kissing thing on prime time.  Nicole Ritchie on a live Fox TV interview says, “Did you ever try to get cowshit out of a f____g purse?”  Basketball star Shaquille O’Neal on a live TV interview says “I’m tired of these f_____g referees messing up my game.”  When reminded he was on live TV, he replied, “I don’t give a ____!”

Does it rub off?  A high school in MA puts on “The Vagina Monologues” as high school fare.  A grade school in Tomball TX has a book in their elementary school library called, “Walter, the Farting Dog.”  And in front of 80 million viewers, Justin Timberlake sings, “Gonna have you naked by the end of this song.”

The coarsening of our America continues, and folks, we are losing!  Why do we let this continue?  It is our America.  It does not belong to the elitist left and talentless entertainers.

MTV is a huge part of the problem, but they got one thing right in their political campaign for “Choose or Lose.”  They are right about the issue.  It is up to us to choose if MTV’s America is the one we want.  Choose, or lose!  Have you written your letters yet?

(posted 3/08/04)

************************************************************************************

The Death of Christmas

We hope that you and your loved ones had a very Merry Christmas happy winter holiday!

While the sentiment is real, you will note that the message has been revised so that it’s politically correct, in deference to the agnostics and atheists, the Muslims and Jews, the ACLU and some judges, all of whom are determined to take Christmas out of Christmas. 

No folks, I am not giving in to these pressures, and neither should you.  I just wanted to get your attention, because the problem is real, and we are losing ground.

 We have already almost lost the battle to keep Christ in Christmas.  We know we have lost because the battleground has now shifted to keeping Christmas in Christmas!

The new attack that really blossomed in the last two years seeks the actual elimination of Christmas as the reason for the Holidays!  According to the proponents of this change, the Christmas period should be renamed “Winter Holidays,” so as to include everyone and not “offend” those who worship a different God, or no God, or a different holiday (i.e.; Kwanzaa).  In pursuit of this goal, lawsuits are brought against municipalities who include “Christmas Story” things in displays, or songs, or programs.  Namby-pamby school boards quickly adopt the “Winter Holiday” term, eager to avoid any controversy, while quite willing to formally endorse Kwanzaa related events.  With unexplained audacity, these same school boards O.K. the use of the Jewish menorah and the Moslem crescent-star, as if they were not religious symbols.

Are we going to stand by while these groups hijack Christmas and transform it into a secular holiday, totally stripped of any relationship to one of the World’s great religions?  Or are we going to fight back?

It’s a difficult fight to wage, because it must not be based on prejudice.  Just as Christian don’t have anything against Hanukah, we should not oppose or resent similar religious celebrations by others, or their decision to “opt out” of the Christmas celebration.  But there is absolutely no reason why we should consent to the death of Christmas!  It’s our Holiday!

So what can you do?  Resolve to keep the story of Christ in your personal Christmas celebration next year.  Buy Christmas cards with Christ in them.  Include Christ in your outside displays.  Admonish your own adult children if they drift, and teach your grandchildren the true meaning of Christmas.  Refuse to succumb to the “Winter Holiday” surrogate.  Fight back by getting involved when your city council or school board decides to succumb.

(posted 2/20/03)

************************************************************************************

The First Right

      “And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger, because there was no room for him in the inn.”    Luke 2:7

“Guided by ultrasound, the abortionist grabs the baby’s legs with forceps.  The baby’s leg is pulled out into the birth canal.  The abortionist delivers the baby’s entire body, except for the head.  The abortionist jams scissors into the baby’s skull.  The scissors are then opened to enlarge the hole.  The scissors are removed and a suction catheter is inserted.  The child’s brains are sucked out, causing the skull to collapse.  The dead baby is then removed.”  (Partial birth abortion procedure from National Right to Life Committee web site)

There have been over 40 million abortions in the 30 years since the U.S. Supreme Court legalized abortion.  This number dwarfs the six million victims of Hitler’s “final solution.”  If 40 million is hard to envision, try 3,500 per day, or about 10 little lives terminated in the time it will take you to read (and think about) this column. 

Yet we as a nation condone it, either denying the obvious biological fact that it is a human life, or worse yet, knowing that it is life, and not caring!  That’s the really frightening part, especially for seniors watching new generations take control with no respect for life.  We have taught them life does not matter.  These are the people who will govern us as we age.

While any abortion takes a human life, the partial birth abortion seems particularly reprehensible.   A nearly developed baby is extracted feet first, leaving the head in the birth canal so that the child is not legally born.  Then it is killed.

In the 1990’s, Congress twice passed laws prohibiting partial birth abortion.  In keeping with the Democratic Party pro-abortion platform (then and now), Clinton vetoed the legislation twice.  However, Congress has again passed the ban on partial birth abortion, and Pres. Bush enthusiastically signed the legislation on Nov. 5. 

Within an hour it had been stayed by a federal judge.  More lawsuits are expected.  So the liberals, who finally lost on this issue because almost all Republicans and some Democrats realize the horror of taking the almost-born life, will now continue the battle in the courts. 

One abortion supporter on national TV called the partial birth abortion ban  “a stab in the back” for the abortion cause.  Really?  How about the “stab in the back of the neck” for the innocent baby?

So the abortion battle shifts to the courts, and will likely go all the way to the Supreme Court.

Will God continue to bless a nation that aborts its young?  Enduring Freedom requires eternal vigilance!

(posted 11/21/04)

************************************************************************************

Borderline Insanity

We left the dance at Mraz Hall to catch Brian Marshall at the Polish Home.  Then we decided to drive up to Porter to check out a new c/w dance hall.  This took me up Airline Drive, into a part of Houston that I haven’t seen in years.  I didn’t recognize it! 

For several miles, Houston has become Little Mexico.  Now, I don’t mean Mexican-American.  I mean Mexico!  The signs are all in Spanish, the inhabitants all Mexican, and the culture pure Mexico.  We stopped in a Subway for a snack, and none of the employees spoke a word of English, even though they were young.  They were friendly enough, but I was the outsider, in their new territory.  A territory that is being claimed by the flood of illegal immigration, in this case, from our southern border.  But the illegals come from other places as well.

Yes, we are a nation of immigrants.  Yes, immigrants helped build this nation, and still do.  Yes, we have been the melting pot of the world, lifting the lamp of Liberty “to the tired, the poor, the huddled masses yearning to breath free.”  Yes, we are a better nation because of immigration.

Slight correction.  Because of controlled immigration!  Because of immigration by peoples who saw the opportunity in America, and wanted to be Americans!

But now we are the victims of uncontrolled immigration, of open doors for people who want our opportunity, our standard of living, our medical care and our welfare, but without the responsibility of becoming patriotic Americans!  Perhaps worst of all, our borders are open to those who despise us, who believe we are “The Great Satan,” and who will work incessantly for our destruction.  Folks, this is not immigration.  It’s an invasion!

The immigration invasion comes from two sources, legal and illegal.  The illegal problem manifests at both the Canadian and Mexican borders, and represents a steady flow of people unlawfully entering the country.  The legal immigration problem is a result of our own unwillingness to screen and select who enters our country, and to track them once here.  Both problems are real. 

It’s time to take back control of our borders, reform INS, temporarily stop immigration of middle eastern people, and find the political will and moral courage to end borderline insanity.

What to do?   First, speak out on the issue!  Not in blind prejudice, but in preservation.  It is preservation (not prejudice) to expect immigrants to learn English, pledge allegiance to America first, and commit to supporting America and its Constitution.  Legal immigrants who meet these requirements are welcome, as they always have been.  Others are not.  This is preservation, not prejudice.

Next, boycott Mexico and Canada until they help control the borders.  Finally, and most importantly, write your Congressman.  Today.  Demand an end to borderline insanity!  Preservation, not prejudice!

(posted 10/22/03)

************************************************************************************

Reflections on Sept. 11

Today is Sept. 11, 2003, two years since the planned and unprovoked attack on our nation by terrorists.  It is a good time to reflect.

Sadly, the TV programs this morning are full of interviews with family members of those who died on the ground.  The sad part is that most of these survivors are positioning themselves for lawsuits against the builders of the aircraft, the airlines, and the designers of the buildings.  This in spite of the fact that their families are getting substantial compensation ($1.5 million) from you, the U.S. Taxpayer, via the Sept. 11 Victim’s Compensation Fund.  This while other families have lost (or will lose) their family members with scarcely any compensation in the continuing war on terrorism in Afghanistan and Iraq.

Such lawsuits are reprehensible.  The people bringing such suits (and their lawyers) reflect the worst of Sept. 11.  At best, it’s misguided grief.  At worst, it’s pure greed.  It’s unpatriotic, and a disservice to all who sacrifice for our nation.  It’s a shame, visited on Sept. 11!

But there is a better side to Sept. 11.  In the days after the tragedy, Congress prayed, and sang “God Bless America” together in bipartisan harmony on the Capital steps!  Our nation pulled together, as President Bush took the offensive and began the war on terrorism.  Patriotism and flags sprouted everywhere.  We were once again proud of, and thankful for, our country.

The war on terrorism was joined, to be fought on the offensive in other countries, rather than wait placidly to be attacked at home.  International cooperation to track terrorist activities and financing made substantial progress.  They got the message:  “We will make no distinction between terrorists and those who support them.”

Steps were taken to improve our own emergency preparedness, including the new Homeland Security Department (the real justification for which is to decrease bureaucracy and improve effectiveness by consolidating all the agencies and programs under one command).  Three terrorism cells in the U.S. have been broken up. 

Afghanistan has been neutralized as a breeding ground for international terrorism.  Saddam has been deposed, removing him as a threat to the region and cutting off his funding of terrorism in Palestine.  His    removal sets the stage for establishing an island of democracy in the middle east, the benefits of which will emerge over the coming decades. 

But there is much yet to be done.  The path to recovery in Iraq is filled with problems, and will require substantial resources as well as more American lives.  And here at home, we do not yet have the political will to control our own borders. 

Sadly, the pending Presidential elections will again polarize our nation in partisan politics.  But the bottom line is that we are better off than we were before Sept. 11, 2001.  Pain brings progress.  

(Posted 9/19/03)

************************************************************************************

Hope Springs Eternal

Hope springs eternal.  Bob Hope, that is!  Having completed 100 years of service to our nation, Bob Hope is now eternal.  How lucky we are to have lived in the age of Hope!

The world knew Bob Hope.  His face, quick wit, deprecating humor, and tireless support for our U.S. servicemen and charity are familiar.  But his record bears recounting, because it is so astonishing!

As acknowledged entertainer of the century, Bob Hope was in 66 movies, did over 1100 radio shows, and more than 500 TV shows, including 40 Christmas specials.  His trademark theme song, “Thanks for the Memory,” won an Oscar for best song in Bob’s movie debut in 1938 (Bob later changed the word to “Memories”).  Bob and Bing Crosby teamed together (with Dorothy Lamour) to do the famous “Road” movies, beginning with Road to Singapore, the first of seven.  At the time of Bing’s death, the pair was planning another, “The Road to the Fountain of Youth.”  A final TV special produced by daughter Linda, “100 Years of Hope and Humor,” was broadcast May 29.

In addition to all the radio, TV and movies, Bob also wrote 12 books.

Bob’s dedication to entertaining our service men and women began in 1941 and spanned 50 years, with his last live Christmas performance for the Desert Storm troops.  He made at least 700 trips to entertain our troops in four wars (WWII, Korea, Viet Nam and Dessert Storm).  We have all seen films of Bob entertaining a huge throng of servicemen in the field, their happy faces and laughter telling us all we need to know about Bob Hope and his gift to the nation. 

Bob received many honors for his contributions.  Here’s a few.  The Congressional Medal of Honor.  Honored four times by Congress, including “Honorary Veteran” status by special Act of Congress.  Five honorary Oscars.  Special Emmys for Christmas Specials and military work.  Kennedy Center Lifetime Achievement Award.  54 honorary degrees.  A Gold Service Medal from the Pentagon.  Most decorated civilian in the history of the U.S. Military.  A Navy ship and Air Force plane named after him. 

Born in England, the Hope family came to the U.S. in 1908.  Bob became a citizen in 1920 when his father (and the whole family) were naturalized.  Bob worked as delivery boy, soda jerk, shoe salesman, leaving school in the 8^th grade to sell cars.  He also had a brief stint as a newspaper reporter and a professional boxer.  But dancing was his love.  It led to his comedy career when he began announcing the acts.  He took off.

Bob met singer Dolores Reade in 1933.  They married months later.  They raised four adopted children.  Bob and Dolores would have marked 70 years married next February.  Remarkable, like everything else about this man!

(posted 8/18/03)

************************************************************************************

Innocent Lives

Protecting innocent lives.  That’s what the Pro-Life movement is all about.  Because the simple fact is that abortion takes innocent life.

How many lives?  There have been over 40 million abortions in the 30 years since the U.S. Supreme Court legalized abortion.  This number dwarfs the six million victims of Hitler’s “final solution.”  If 40 million is hard to envision, try 3,500 per day, or about 10 little lives terminated in the time it will take you to read (and think about) this column. 

But Texas has taken steps in the right direction, in the form of laws enacted in the recent Legislative session.  The Women’s Right to Know Act requires that abortion providers make available to women information (produced by the Texas Department of Health) about the risks of the procedure, the increased potential risk of developing breast cancer, facts detailing the physiological stages of fetal development, and the alternatives to abortion.  The new law also requires a 24-hour reflection period, during which the woman can study the information provided to her.  The bill also makes abortions after 16 weeks more difficult to obtain. 

Separate legislation will deny future public funding for family planning clinics if they provide or refer patients for abortion services. 

These improvements are the result of the Texas Legislature becoming more conservative (reflecting the will of the voters of Texas with Republican control of both Houses of the Texas Legislature), and the pro-life leadership of Governor Perry, Lieutenant Governor Dewhurst and House Speaker Craddick. 

And some of the credit goes to you, the American public, who are increasingly concerned about the horror of abortion.  A recent poll by the pro-abortion Center for the Advancement of Women found that only 41% of women saw preserving abortion as a priority.  In fact, only 30% said that abortion should be generally available.  A total of 51% of women polled held a pro-life position saying abortion should be illegal (17%), or restricted only to rape, incest or prevent the death of the mother (34%).  A separate Gallup poll found very similar results, with a total of 61% believing abortion should be illegal (19%) or legal in only a few circumstances (42%).  Only 38% favored abortion being legal in all or most circumstances. 

Much of the credit also goes to the Texas Right To Life organization, under the direction of James & Elizabeth Graham.  To stay up to date on the pro-life movement, see the web site at TexasRightToLife.com. 

Saving innocent lives.  That’s what it’s all about.  And perhaps saving our heritage by preserving our own native born.

(posted 7/23/03)

************************************************************************************

Texas Tort Reform

Unscrupulous lawyers have been ruining Texas!  Doctors have been shutting their doors and leaving the state, unable to afford the medical malpractice insurance premiums resulting from the high frequency of bogus claims.  Only three companies remain that are willing to write medical malpractice insurance.  In some areas of south Texas, obstetricians have shut their doors and left, making it impossible to get prenatal care. 

And the problem has not been limited to the medical field.  Especially around Beaumont and Corpus Christi, where nonsensical high jury awards have brought lawyers from across the nation (and the entire hemisphere) “forum-shopping” with bogus suits for the inflated awards.  These excesses have hurt the state’s economy by presenting an “anti-business” image. 

Now comes relief, in the form of HB 4, passed by the Texas Legislature and signed by Governor Rick Perry. 

In the medical area, the new legislation places limits on the non-economic damages that may be recovered from health care providers.  Note the emphasis on non-economic!  Nothing in the new law restricts recoveries for actual expenses, past or future, or loss of income.  So juries may still make people whole for real economic damages.  But non-economic damages are capped at $250,000 from doctors, $500,000 from two or more hospitals, and $750,000 per claim when there are multiple defendants.  Folks, this is a very reasonable approach!

HB 4 makes a number of other needed improvements.  It establishes a reasonable way to set legal fees in class action suits so that never again will lawyers be allowed to siphon off exorbitant funds (such as the $3.4 Billion fee from the tobacco lawsuits).  It encourages reasonable settlements by allowing the legal costs to be shifted to the other party if a settlement offer is refused and the final award falls outside of the 80-120% range of the rejected offer.  It allows for lawsuits to be rejected when they should properly be filed in a different venue (country, state, etc.).  It allows evidence of whether or not seat belts were worn to be admitted as evidence when assigning proportion of blame for an injury.  It does much more, all good.

But it is not yet law, and that’s where we all play a part.  Because the law requires changes in the Texas Constitution, the issue will appear before all Texas voters in a special election on Saturday, Sept. 13.   Several other constitutional amendments will also be on that ballot. 

(posted June 24)

************************************************************************************

Memorial Day

Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, is a day of remembrance for those who have died in our nation’s service.  It takes on special, new significance this year.

There are several stories about its actual beginnings.  It was first proclaimed in 1868 and observed on May 30^th that year when flowers were placed on the graves of Union and Confederate soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery.  Later it was known as “Decoration Day.”  It is now celebrated across the nation on the last Monday in May.

Many Texas Polka News readers may have childhood memories of Decoration Day.  These memories may involve services in parks, with uniformed veterans of WWI firing volleys from old Springfield rifles in tribute to their fallen companions.  It might include services in a gymnasium, with someone reciting Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address (exceptionally fitting on Memorial Day).  In the late 40s and 50s the emphasis would have been on veterans of WWII and the Korean Conflict.  In more modern times, the Viet Nam war moved into center stage.  Now we have Iraq.

While the players and the conflicts have changed, several things seem to remain constant over the 135 years we have been marking Memorial Day.  First, sorrow, sacrifice and pride in the faces of those who served and those who lost loved ones.  Second, our nation’s flag, used to decorate or mark graves, and flown half-staff until noon (if proper flag etiquette is followed).  Third, a certain degree of detachment among younger people who have not the years, the experience nor the involvement to appreciate the significance of the event or the emotions of those that took part.  Fourth, a desire by many to sing a patriotic prayer.  Perhaps “God Bless America” or “America” or more recently “God Bless The USA.”

And the final constant is “TAPS” which was composed during the Civil War.  While we normally associate TAPS with the lonely and haunting bugle call, here are the words:

 “Fading light dims the sight, And a star gems the sky, gleaming bright.  From afar drawing nigh – falls the night.” 

“Day is done, gone the sun, From the lake, from the hills, from the sky.  All is well, safely rest, God is nigh.”

 “Then goodnight, peaceful night, Till the light of dawn shineth bright, God is near, do not fear – friend good night.”

Good night to all who served, and gave us our lives with their sacrifice.

(posted June 24)

************************************************************************************

Commentary - Support Our Troops

As this is being written, we stand on the brink of war.  The U.S. will lead a "coalition of the willing" to disarm Iraq and complete the war interrupted by the cease-fire of Desert Storm.  

These are scary times.  Military action to disarm Iraq may be very costly in troops, treasure, and world stability.  Yet the costs of doing nothing could also be extremely high in terms of terrorism, mid east instability and weapons of mass destruction in the hands of rogue nations.  Make no mistake.  Our troops, our nation, and the entire world stand in grave danger, with military action, or without!

President Bush and Tony Blair (Great Britain) lead a coalition that believes the regime of Saddam Hussein must end if we are achieve world stability and deal with terrorism.  Many agree.  Many others do not, hoping that Saddam can be “contained.”  Their protests will get louder as Iraq detonates its oil fields and the body bags of our troops come home. 

With all this uncertainty and the stakes so high, it is difficult to find common ground.  But we should all agree that our military deserves our support.  Those serving are being asked to fight for their country.  They are obeying orders.  They are risking their lives, and many will lose.  They are doing this for us!  For this, they deserve our thanks and our support.  They deserve to be honored. 

Whatever your views or the outcome in Iraq, let us commit to supporting our troops.  If you know someone in the military, tell them thanks.  If you see them on the street, tell them thanks.  When you encounter someone lashing out against the troops, tell them they are wrong.  It’s time to support the troops!

(posted April 17)

************************************************************************************

A World in Peril

The current polka generations have seen the depression, WWII, the Iron Curtain plus the evils of communism, the Korean Conflict, the arms race with Russia and nuclear mutual deterrence, the Cuban missile crisis, the tragedy of Viet Nam, oil embargo gas lines, the spread of nuclear power, and the rising threat of terrorism.  But perhaps the world has never been in greater peril than it is now.

The underlying problems are many.  Nuclear proliferation to smaller countries and rogue nations, now notably North Korea.  The hijacking of the Islam religion by extremists.  Secularization of the Christian world, particularly in Europe.  A decline in moral standards in our own society.  A rising tide of anti-Americanism worldwide.  A United Nations that seems at times to unite against us.  And most of all, the threat of terrorism, the great equalizer, which gives sleeper cells and individuals the power to inflict great harm. 

Never mind that we enjoyed a decade of the 90’s in relative bliss, reaping the peace dividend handed to us by Ronald Reagan and the unprecedented productivity of the computer age which boosted the economy.  While this was happening, Saddam was fooling the U.N. inspectors, Al Quaeda was developing their network and attacking the U.S. (remember the first attack on the World Trade Center, the USS Cole and the embassies?), we were selling our missile technology to China, and North Korea was snookering the U.S. [Question: Shouldn’t Jimmy Carter return his Nobel Peace Prize?  After all, the deal he brokered with North Korea for the Clinton Administration is now shown to be an absolute failure.]

The most immediate threats are Iraq, terrorism and North Korea.  All must be confronted.  Yet confrontation presents great risks.  

In Iraq, the great risks of forcibly disarming Saddam in accord with the results of Desert Storm and the U.N. mandate must be balanced against the great risk of continuing to do nothing. 

The war on terrorism will become a way of life, a considerable cost, and the terrorists will sometimes succeed, perhaps with great economic impact. 

Having already developed nuclear power, North Korea must be handled only by diplomatic means.  They will continue to threaten nuclear power, develop missiles to deliver their bombs, and demand more “ransom” as we agreed to in 1994. 

(posted Mar. 18)

************************************************************************************

The Death of Christmas

We hope that you and your loved ones had a very Merry Christmas Happy Holiday!

While the sentiment is real, you will note that we revised our message so that it’s politically correct, in deference to the agnostics and atheists, the Muslims and Jews, the ACLU and some judges, all of whom are determined to take Christ out of Christmas. 

No folks, I am not giving in to these pressures, and neither should you.  I just wanted to get your attention, because the problem is real.

How real is it?  We have watched throughout the last 50 years as the commercialization of Christmas has emphasized Santa Claus, snowmen and reindeer, setting up a shopping season that begins right after Halloween.  This is a change that has happened, driven by our free market economy.  Nothing much we can do about this anymore.

But the new attack that really blossomed in 2002 seeks the actual elimination of Christ from the Holidays!  According to the proponents of this change, the Christmas period should be renamed “Winter Holidays,” so as to include everyone and not “offend” those who worship a different God, or no God, or a different holiday (i.e.; Kwanzaa).  In pursuit of this goal, lawsuits are brought against municipalities who include “Christmas Story” things in displays.  Namby-pamby school boards quickly adopt the “Winter Holiday” term, eager to avoid any controversy, while quite willing to formally endorse Kwanzaa related events. 

Are we going to stand by while these groups hijack Christmas and transform it into a secular holiday, totally stripped of any relationship to one of the World’s great religions?  Or are we going to fight back?

It’s a difficult fight to wage, because it must not be based on prejudice.  Americans of the Jewish religion have long celebrated Hanukah and also observed the Christmas Holidays in a manner of their choosing.  Just as Christian don’t have anything against Hanukah, we should not oppose or resent similar religious celebrations by others, or their decision to “opt out” of the Christmas celebration. 

In like fashion, there is absolutely no reason why we should consent to stripping Christ out of Christmas!  It’s our religious heritage.  So what can you do?

Resolve to keep the story of Christ in your personal Christmas celebration next year.  Buy Christmas cards with Christ in them.  Include Christ in your outside displays.  Teach your grandchildren the true meaning of Christmas.  Refuse to succumb to the “Happy Holiday” surrogate.  Fight back by getting involved next year when your city council or school board decides to succumb.

(posted 1/30/03

************************************************************************************

Do Nothing?

Q.  What is the best job in the Iraqi government?  A.  Foreign ambassador!

Pretty clever, but humor can’t mask the seriousness of the situation.  We must resolve the issue of what to do about Saddam Hussein!  And soon.  Time is not on our side!

The case against Saddam is that he has caused constant turmoil in the Mid-East, hence the world.  He invaded Kuwait, has thumbed his nose at the U.N. inspections, and submits to the U. N. imposed no-fly zones only because he can’t stop us from enforcing them.  In losing the Gulf War, he nevertheless committed the environmental crime of the century (perhaps of all time) by igniting the Kuwait oil fields.  (Question: Why aren’t the environmentalists crying out for his eradication?) 

Saddam attempted to assassinate former President Bush (the plot was foiled).  He has continued his pursuit of chemical and nuclear weapons, using nerve gas against his own Iraqi citizens (from an area that opposed him, a great way to test the weapon).

He preaches that the United States is “The Great Satan,” and is clearly our self-proclaimed mortal enemy.  This means he doesn’t like us, folks!  This means that he will do anything in his power to harm us.  He is not just misunderstood.  He is our enemy!

While his links to El Quaeda have not yet been established with hard evidence, can there be any doubt that he supports “the enemy of his enemy?”  All of which leads to the question.  What to do about Saddam?  And when?

The official policy of the Bush Administration is regime change.  Most in this country agree.  The world is still divided on this, and more divided on “how” to bring about regime change. 

It seems clear that regime change is not likely to come about without military force.  Dictators who control the military are not easily overthrown internally. 

Some argue that all we need is continuing economic sanctions and UN inspections to ensure that Saddam does not develop nuclear weapons or the means to deliver them.  But folks, this won’t wash.  The economic sanctions only impoverish the Iraqi people without end, ensuring that they too hate us.  And the UN inspections will never be effective against this crafty enemy.

Others argue that the costs of regime change by U. S. military intervention will be too high in terms of lives and treasure and our world reputation, so we should just cool it.  These are the advocates of “do nothing.” 

“Do nothing” people are like those who tried to appease Hitler.  It didn’t work then, and it won’t work now.  “Do nothing” people delude themselves in the pursuit of “leave me alone, I just want to live my life while I stick my head in the ground.”

**************************************************************************************

Political Correctness

We all know the enduring fable of the Emperor’s New Clothes.  Convinced that his new “outfit” is something splendid, the Emperor goes on public display.  Loyal subjects, unwilling or unable to rely on their own common sense, help celebrate the new look.  It takes a youth, unfettered by peer pressure and the need to conform, to expose the farce and give voice to the truth. 

And so we see that being “politically correct” isn’t anything new.  The Emperor’s subjects pioneered the principle.  But political correctness has made an astounding resurgence throughout our society in the past decade, to the detriment of our nation.  And those with the common sense to expose the naked truth cannot make their voices heard above the din of the liberal media intent on outdoing the Emperor’s dupes.

Political correctness is like a computer virus, masquerading as something good yet infecting our thinking and affecting the fabric of our society.

Examples?  Sure.  Any attempt to oppose the promotion of homosexuality is deemed “politically incorrect” and derided by the media.  Any ideas about stemming the flow of illegal aliens across our borders suffer the same fate.  Opposing abortion is also politically incorrect.  And the environment?  Any thought that the benefits of environmental stewardship should bear some relation to the costs involved is dispatched quickly by the “politically incorrect” police.  How many times have we heard, “If it just saves one life…” (or plant, or whatever).

So what is the essence of this “political correctness” phenomenon?

First, it is censorship.  Just as the Emperor’s subjects felt the pressure to cap their common sense and muzzle their mouths, so too are we being intimidated by a media who label our thoughts “politically incorrect.”

Second, it is brainwashing.  If we are told something often enough we gradually succumb to the notion, inch by inch, slowly oozing towards the concept. 

Third, it stamps out creative or original thinking and an open discussion on the merits of a program.  Ideas or plans are dismissed as being “politically incorrect” regardless of merit, and never considered.

Finally, it is a tool of the liberals to attack and attempt to discredit conservatives.  If a liberal cannot win an argument on merit, just win the day by labeling the other side “politically incorrect.”

With all this going against us, is there any hope?  Yes, hope in the many common citizens who proudly announce they are “politically incorrect and proud of it!”  Hope in the Fox News Network who presents news “fair and balanced” and have soaring ratings because of it.  And hope in spokesmen like Charlton Heston, who so eloquently exposes the naked truth, and who showed true grit and class in his recent tribute to this Nation.

Help stamp out political correctness!

************************************************************************************

The Pledge

The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals says it’s unconstitutional to include the words “under God” in the Pledge of Allegiance.

I say they’re wrong, and I’m in good company!  President Bush called the decision “Ridiculous” and reminded us all that our founders relied heavily on God in the formation of this Nation.  Texas’ Governor Perry called the decision “outrageous and reprehensible” and called for Texas schoolchildren and all Texans to continue to recite the pledge with the words “under God.”  Congress immediately united to decry the Court’s decision and affirm support for the pledge.

While the Appeals Court decision has upset the Nation, there is little surprise in their action.  Long recognized as the most liberal courts in the nation, the Court has been reversed by the U. S. Supreme Court in over two-thirds of their decisions reviewed by that Court.  Wrong two-thirds of the time!  In one recent period, the Supreme Court reversed 27 of 28 decisions made by the Ninth Circuit Appeals Court, and 17 times these reversals were unanimous!  This amazing statistic clearly shows that the Ninth Circuit is attempting to legislate from the bench, and raises the question, “Why?”

Consider these facts.  The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals (which serves California and seven other western states) has 24 full time judges and 21 “Senior” judges who serve part time.  The Court typically uses three-judge panels, drawn from this cadre of 45 judges, such as the three-judge panel that reached this Pledge decision.