Sunday, February 29, 2004
From the Academy Awards show ...
Sean Penn: "... If it's one thing actors know, other than there were no WMD's ..."
I suppose that his comments mean that Sean, America's "foremost" weapons inspector, has personally inspected every square inch of Iraq, both above ground, and every cave and spider-hole, to come to this conclusion ...
What colossal arrogance !
I suppose that his comments mean that Sean, America's "foremost" weapons inspector, has personally inspected every square inch of Iraq, both above ground, and every cave and spider-hole, to come to this conclusion ...
What colossal arrogance !
More on Rep. Corrine Brown's racist remarks ...
From Glenn Reynolds at Instapundit ...
In this post Glenn points out additional comments regarding Rep. Brown's "non-apology-apology".
I still don't see any of the outrage that should have been evident at Rep. Brown's outrageous comments.
In this post Glenn points out additional comments regarding Rep. Brown's "non-apology-apology".
I still don't see any of the outrage that should have been evident at Rep. Brown's outrageous comments.
Families that support Bush
From today's' Dallas Morning News, the following letter to the editor almost exactly mirrors the conversations I have had with my wife and children ...
Thanks to Keith Burgess-Jackson's blog for the "heads-up".
"... I grew up in a politically active family. I can remember going to political rallies with my mom. I grew up with a strong support of Republican candidates. As a child, I collected bumper stickers and buttons and wrote to my president, Ronald Reagan. As a child, I would dream about what it would be like to actually meet the president. He was a role model.
Now that I am a mother, I try to instill the same pride in my daughters. I recently was telling my 6-year-old daughter what Republicans typically believe and what Democrats typically believe. I told her why I wanted George W. Bush to be re-elected and how important the 2004 election was.
A few days later, she came to me and asked this question, "Mommy, if George Bush isn't re-elected, do we lower the flag halfway?" Although I laughed at this innocent question, it is exactly how I will feel if our president isn't re-elected.
After years of moral decay in the White House with Bill Clinton, it has been a relief to have someone in the White House who has strong moral standards and supports the traditional family. Our family fully supports George W. Bush.
Debi Jenkins, Frisco "
Thanks to Keith Burgess-Jackson's blog for the "heads-up".
"... I grew up in a politically active family. I can remember going to political rallies with my mom. I grew up with a strong support of Republican candidates. As a child, I collected bumper stickers and buttons and wrote to my president, Ronald Reagan. As a child, I would dream about what it would be like to actually meet the president. He was a role model.
Now that I am a mother, I try to instill the same pride in my daughters. I recently was telling my 6-year-old daughter what Republicans typically believe and what Democrats typically believe. I told her why I wanted George W. Bush to be re-elected and how important the 2004 election was.
A few days later, she came to me and asked this question, "Mommy, if George Bush isn't re-elected, do we lower the flag halfway?" Although I laughed at this innocent question, it is exactly how I will feel if our president isn't re-elected.
After years of moral decay in the White House with Bill Clinton, it has been a relief to have someone in the White House who has strong moral standards and supports the traditional family. Our family fully supports George W. Bush.
Debi Jenkins, Frisco "
Legitimizing a behavior ...
Does legitimizing a particular behavior open the doors to legitimizing other "more objectionable" behaviors ?
This Op-Ed piece in today's NY times raises a valid question ...
"... For a productive dialogue, we should be asking the question this way: is giving gays the right to marry good for society? And to answer that, we must ask what larger social purpose marriage serves."
This Op-Ed piece in today's NY times raises a valid question ...
"... For a productive dialogue, we should be asking the question this way: is giving gays the right to marry good for society? And to answer that, we must ask what larger social purpose marriage serves."
Saturday, February 28, 2004
More on the "Oil-for-Palaces" program
From Glenn Reynolds at Instapundit ...
The NY Times will publish an article regarding the rampant corruption that existed in the "oil-for-palaces" program run by the UN.
Interestingly, as Glenn comments ...
"... The story barely touches on the most interesting aspect of this -- Saddam's use of this money to purchase opposition to American war efforts from politicians and governments. For that matter, the UN has a lot of explaining to do."
I have been predicting from the start that this investigation will turn over many "rocks" that the UN, the French, and many liberals would rather see stay buried !
The NY Times will publish an article regarding the rampant corruption that existed in the "oil-for-palaces" program run by the UN.
Interestingly, as Glenn comments ...
"... The story barely touches on the most interesting aspect of this -- Saddam's use of this money to purchase opposition to American war efforts from politicians and governments. For that matter, the UN has a lot of explaining to do."
I have been predicting from the start that this investigation will turn over many "rocks" that the UN, the French, and many liberals would rather see stay buried !
Daily Definitions
Webster's Dictionary
stupid adj.
1 a : slow of mind : OBTUSE b : given to unintelligent decisions or acts : acting in an unintelligent or careless manner c : lacking intelligence or reason : BRUTISH
2 : dulled in feeling or sensation : TORPID
3 : marked by or resulting from unreasoned thinking or acting : SENSELESS
4 a : lacking interest or point b : VEXATIOUS, EXASPERATING
The Liberal's Dictionary Companion
stupid adj.
1 : conservative
2 : Republican
3 : Southern
4 : reside in a "red" state
stupid adj.
1 a : slow of mind : OBTUSE b : given to unintelligent decisions or acts : acting in an unintelligent or careless manner c : lacking intelligence or reason : BRUTISH
2 : dulled in feeling or sensation : TORPID
3 : marked by or resulting from unreasoned thinking or acting : SENSELESS
4 a : lacking interest or point b : VEXATIOUS, EXASPERATING
The Liberal's Dictionary Companion
stupid adj.
1 : conservative
2 : Republican
3 : Southern
4 : reside in a "red" state
Lawlessness can continue ...
The California Supreme Court declined to issue an injunction to restrain the issuance of same-sex marriage licenses.
Breaking the law is obviously not a problem in their opinion. Granted the fact that the court has historically been disinclined to take a case unless it has worked it's way through the lower court systems.
... But if the situation had been a city mayor who had installed a religeous symbol in the city hall building, do you really think the mayor wouldn't be in jail ? with the supreme court ruling for an immediate injunction ?
The "rule of law" should prevail whatever the circumstances, but to liberals it is only a "rule of convenience".
Breaking the law is obviously not a problem in their opinion. Granted the fact that the court has historically been disinclined to take a case unless it has worked it's way through the lower court systems.
... But if the situation had been a city mayor who had installed a religeous symbol in the city hall building, do you really think the mayor wouldn't be in jail ? with the supreme court ruling for an immediate injunction ?
The "rule of law" should prevail whatever the circumstances, but to liberals it is only a "rule of convenience".
Friday, February 27, 2004
The Fundamental Campaign Issues
In my opinion, the fundamental campaign issues will be 1) National security, and 2) the economy.
How do the candidates position themselves with regard to these issues ? It seem highly likely that John Kerry will be the Democratic nominee, so contrasting his positions with President Bush's positions seems like a valid exercise.
National security (e.g. the war on terror, homeland security)
All I've read to date indicates that John Kerry views the war on terror as a "legal exercise". His comments to date indicate that he would push for international law enforcement bodies to take over the intelligence gathering, capture, and prosecution of terrorists. His homeland security initiatives would include beefing up security at critical facilities in the US, and adding law enforcement officers and firefighters to the employment rolls.
In my opinion, this strategy is unidimensional. The measures proposed for Homeland security are reasonable, but the stategy to fight terrorism is severely lacking. The international community (including the US in the past) has attempted to go the "law enforcement" route. Intelligence was not shared appropriately, "analysis paralysis" took place, and opportunities were missed. Concerns regarding the legality of possible actions resulted in inaction. Al Queda got stronger. The states supporting terrorism went unchallenged. Nothing in Kerry's message makes me feel more secure. Actually thinking that the need exists to add police and firefighters to the employment rolls makes me feel less secure ! Does Kerry anticipate that we'll need the additional resources to handle another expected attack ?
How do the candidates position themselves with regard to these issues ? It seem highly likely that John Kerry will be the Democratic nominee, so contrasting his positions with President Bush's positions seems like a valid exercise.
National security (e.g. the war on terror, homeland security)
All I've read to date indicates that John Kerry views the war on terror as a "legal exercise". His comments to date indicate that he would push for international law enforcement bodies to take over the intelligence gathering, capture, and prosecution of terrorists. His homeland security initiatives would include beefing up security at critical facilities in the US, and adding law enforcement officers and firefighters to the employment rolls.
In my opinion, this strategy is unidimensional. The measures proposed for Homeland security are reasonable, but the stategy to fight terrorism is severely lacking. The international community (including the US in the past) has attempted to go the "law enforcement" route. Intelligence was not shared appropriately, "analysis paralysis" took place, and opportunities were missed. Concerns regarding the legality of possible actions resulted in inaction. Al Queda got stronger. The states supporting terrorism went unchallenged. Nothing in Kerry's message makes me feel more secure. Actually thinking that the need exists to add police and firefighters to the employment rolls makes me feel less secure ! Does Kerry anticipate that we'll need the additional resources to handle another expected attack ?
Back from Iraq ...
From Glenn Reynolds at Instapundit
"Chief Wiggles", an Army National Guard member, just returned from Iraq. He has posted some moving thoughts that everyone should take time to read.
"Chief Wiggles", an Army National Guard member, just returned from Iraq. He has posted some moving thoughts that everyone should take time to read.
Scott Ritter on Saddam's payroll ?
Further details are coming out with regard to the list of recipients of Saddam's oil bribes. One of the purported recipients was Shaker Al-Khaffaji, recipient of a 7 million barrels allocation.
This is the man who advanced $400,000 to Scott Ritter, the former U.N. weapons inspector in Iraq. Ritter produced a documentary film purporting to tell the true story of the weapons inspections, which in his telling were corrupted by sinister U.S. manipulation.
...And what about the billions in funds that the UN itself received from the "oil-for-palaces" program ? Doesn't it appear as if the UN had a vested interest in supporting Saddam's regime ?
You can read more here, and
here ... and this article clarifies the background.
Thanks to John Ray for the last two links.
This is the man who advanced $400,000 to Scott Ritter, the former U.N. weapons inspector in Iraq. Ritter produced a documentary film purporting to tell the true story of the weapons inspections, which in his telling were corrupted by sinister U.S. manipulation.
...And what about the billions in funds that the UN itself received from the "oil-for-palaces" program ? Doesn't it appear as if the UN had a vested interest in supporting Saddam's regime ?
You can read more here, and
here ... and this article clarifies the background.
Thanks to John Ray for the last two links.
Preemptive Doctrine
I had intended to write an article expressing my opinions with regard to "preemption". Preempt is a recent liberal "buzz" word, usually used in the context of an attack on President Bush's foreign policy position.
I've discovered that I've been preempted !
This excellent article by Victor Davis Hanson at The National Review Online made many of the arguments that I would have made, and is certainly written better than what my meager skills could produce.
I've discovered that I've been preempted !
This excellent article by Victor Davis Hanson at The National Review Online made many of the arguments that I would have made, and is certainly written better than what my meager skills could produce.
Daily Definitions
Webster's Dictionary
moral(s) n.
1 a : the moral significance or practical lesson (as of a story) b : a passage pointing out usually in conclusion the lesson to be drawn from a story
2 plural a : moral practices or teachings : modes of conduct b : ETHICS
3 : MORALE
The Liberal's Dictionary Companion
moral(s) n.
1 : situational guidelines that may be disregarded at will
2 : in opposition to enlightenment
3 : foundation of radical conservativism
moral(s) n.
1 a : the moral significance or practical lesson (as of a story) b : a passage pointing out usually in conclusion the lesson to be drawn from a story
2 plural a : moral practices or teachings : modes of conduct b : ETHICS
3 : MORALE
The Liberal's Dictionary Companion
moral(s) n.
1 : situational guidelines that may be disregarded at will
2 : in opposition to enlightenment
3 : foundation of radical conservativism
Where's the indignation ?
Where is the indignation from the media over US Rep. Corrine Brown's recent racist statements?
It wasn't too terribly long ago that Trent Lott was excoriated for "similar" statements.
Of course Rep. Brown has apologized, but wait ... so did Trent Lott !
Oh, wait a minute ... as a liberal Democrat she's "exempt" from negative media coverage .....
It wasn't too terribly long ago that Trent Lott was excoriated for "similar" statements.
Of course Rep. Brown has apologized, but wait ... so did Trent Lott !
Oh, wait a minute ... as a liberal Democrat she's "exempt" from negative media coverage .....
A draft resister's statement ...
Here is a very good piece from Powerline regarding a former draft resister's recent column, "Antiwar activists who got it wrong".
Here's a short outtake ...
"... I am ashamed of my role in those not-so-glorious '60s. I honor John Kerry the solider. But in this time of war, we must repudiate his disgraceful depiction of the American solider in Vietnam, his mistaken understanding of the Cold War, and his equivocation in our present war.
For those tempted to use a soldier's story to advance the worldview of the "peace movement," take pause. We were wrong then; you don't have to be wrong now. "
Here's a short outtake ...
"... I am ashamed of my role in those not-so-glorious '60s. I honor John Kerry the solider. But in this time of war, we must repudiate his disgraceful depiction of the American solider in Vietnam, his mistaken understanding of the Cold War, and his equivocation in our present war.
For those tempted to use a soldier's story to advance the worldview of the "peace movement," take pause. We were wrong then; you don't have to be wrong now. "
This week's advice column ...
Thursday, February 26, 2004
Political Pop Quiz
A Veteran's letter to Kerry
I received this letter by e-mail ...
I was a green beret officer who volunteered for duty in Vietnam and fought in the thick of it in 1968 and 1969 on a Special Forces A-team on the Ho Chi Minh Trail, just for starters. We were the elite. We saw the most action. Everybody in the world knows that. But we did not just kill people. We built a church, a school, treated illnesses, passed out soap, food, and clothing, and had fun and loving interaction with the indigenous people of Vietnam, just like our boys did in Normandy, Baghdad, Saigon, and everywhere American soldiers ever served. We all gave away our candy bars and rations to kids, our hearts to oppressed people all over the globe.
My children and grandchildren could read your words, and think those horrendous things about me, Mr. Kerry.
You are a bold-faced, unprincipled liar, and a disgrace, and you have dishonored me and all my fellow Vietnam veterans. Sure, there were a couple of bad-apples, but I saw none, and I saw it all. And if I did, as an army officer, it was my obligation to stop it, or at the very least report it. Why is there not a single record anywhere of you ever reporting any incidents like this or having the perpetrators arrested? The answer is simple. You are a liar.
Your medals and mine are not a free pass for lifetime, Senator Kerry, to bypass character, integrity, and morality. I earn my green beret over and over daily in all aspects of my life. Eight National Guard green berets, and other National Guard soldiers, have been killed in Iraq and Afghanistan, and you totally dishonored their widows and families by lumping National Guard service in with being a draft-dodger, conscientious objector, and deserter, just so you can try to sabotage the patriotism of our President who proudly served as an Air National Guard jet pilot.
I have a son earning his green beret at Fort Bragg right now, and his wife serves honorably in the Air National Guard, just like President Bush did, and I am as proud of her as I am my son.
I volunteered for Vietnam and have no problem whatsoever with President Bush being our Commander-In-Chief. In fact, I am proud of him as our leader. John Kerry, you personally derailed the Vietnam Human Rights Bill, HR2883, in 2001, after it had passed the House by a 411 to 1 vote, and thousands of pro-American Montagnard tribespeople in Vietnam died since then who could have been saved, by you. Earlier, as Chair of the Senate Select Committee on MIA/POW Affairs, you personally quashed the efforts of any and all veterans to report sightings of living POW's, when you held those reins in Congress. You have fought tooth and nail to push for the US to normalize relations with Vietnam for years. Why, Mr Kerry?
Simple, your first cousin, C. Stewart Forbes, CEO, of Colliers International, recently signed a contract with Hanoi, worth BILLIONS of dollars for Collier's International to become the exclusive real estate representative for the country of Vietnam. "Hanoi John," now that it works for you, you beat your chest about your Vietnam service, but to me, you are a phony, opportunistic, hypocrite. You are one of those politicians that is like a fertilizer machine: all that comes out of you is horse manure, and you are spreading it everywhere.
Medals do not make a man. Morals do.
Don Bendell Canon City, Colorado
I was a green beret officer who volunteered for duty in Vietnam and fought in the thick of it in 1968 and 1969 on a Special Forces A-team on the Ho Chi Minh Trail, just for starters. We were the elite. We saw the most action. Everybody in the world knows that. But we did not just kill people. We built a church, a school, treated illnesses, passed out soap, food, and clothing, and had fun and loving interaction with the indigenous people of Vietnam, just like our boys did in Normandy, Baghdad, Saigon, and everywhere American soldiers ever served. We all gave away our candy bars and rations to kids, our hearts to oppressed people all over the globe.
My children and grandchildren could read your words, and think those horrendous things about me, Mr. Kerry.
You are a bold-faced, unprincipled liar, and a disgrace, and you have dishonored me and all my fellow Vietnam veterans. Sure, there were a couple of bad-apples, but I saw none, and I saw it all. And if I did, as an army officer, it was my obligation to stop it, or at the very least report it. Why is there not a single record anywhere of you ever reporting any incidents like this or having the perpetrators arrested? The answer is simple. You are a liar.
Your medals and mine are not a free pass for lifetime, Senator Kerry, to bypass character, integrity, and morality. I earn my green beret over and over daily in all aspects of my life. Eight National Guard green berets, and other National Guard soldiers, have been killed in Iraq and Afghanistan, and you totally dishonored their widows and families by lumping National Guard service in with being a draft-dodger, conscientious objector, and deserter, just so you can try to sabotage the patriotism of our President who proudly served as an Air National Guard jet pilot.
I have a son earning his green beret at Fort Bragg right now, and his wife serves honorably in the Air National Guard, just like President Bush did, and I am as proud of her as I am my son.
I volunteered for Vietnam and have no problem whatsoever with President Bush being our Commander-In-Chief. In fact, I am proud of him as our leader. John Kerry, you personally derailed the Vietnam Human Rights Bill, HR2883, in 2001, after it had passed the House by a 411 to 1 vote, and thousands of pro-American Montagnard tribespeople in Vietnam died since then who could have been saved, by you. Earlier, as Chair of the Senate Select Committee on MIA/POW Affairs, you personally quashed the efforts of any and all veterans to report sightings of living POW's, when you held those reins in Congress. You have fought tooth and nail to push for the US to normalize relations with Vietnam for years. Why, Mr Kerry?
Simple, your first cousin, C. Stewart Forbes, CEO, of Colliers International, recently signed a contract with Hanoi, worth BILLIONS of dollars for Collier's International to become the exclusive real estate representative for the country of Vietnam. "Hanoi John," now that it works for you, you beat your chest about your Vietnam service, but to me, you are a phony, opportunistic, hypocrite. You are one of those politicians that is like a fertilizer machine: all that comes out of you is horse manure, and you are spreading it everywhere.
Medals do not make a man. Morals do.
Don Bendell Canon City, Colorado
Liberal cat ...
From ThoseShirts.com ....
I just neutered the cat ... now he's a liberal
Gotta' love it !
I just neutered the cat ... now he's a liberal
Gotta' love it !
Don't attack, or we'll sue !
There is a fundamental difference between President Bush and the Democratic candidates ...
That difference is best summarized in an article in "The Spectator" today, as reported in this post from the Powerline blog.
A vote for a Democratic candidate is a vote to deny the War on Terror, and go back to the inept policies that treated terrorism as a "legal issue".
I'm sure that Al Queda is not particulary deterred by the threat of arrest or a lawsuit !
That difference is best summarized in an article in "The Spectator" today, as reported in this post from the Powerline blog.
A vote for a Democratic candidate is a vote to deny the War on Terror, and go back to the inept policies that treated terrorism as a "legal issue".
I'm sure that Al Queda is not particulary deterred by the threat of arrest or a lawsuit !
A Balkan Quagmire ...
From Glenn Reynolds at "Instapundit" this commentary regarding the massive investigation underway into the circumstances regarding to our "rush to war" and the resulting "quagmire" in the Balkans under the Clinton administration.
Yeah, as if that will ever happen ...
Yeah, as if that will ever happen ...
Daily Definitions
Webster's Dictionary
preempt v.
1 : to acquire (as land) by preemption
2 : to seize upon to the exclusion of others : take for oneself
3 : to replace with something considered to be of greater value or priority : take precedence over
4 : to gain a commanding or preeminent place in
5 : to prevent from happening or taking place : FORESTALL, PRECLUDE (emphasis mine)
The Liberal's Dictionary Companion
preempt v.
1 : to forswear diplomacy
2 : to invade and conquer
3 : to broadcast the "State of the Union" speech rather than "The West Wing" or "Survivor"
preempt v.
1 : to acquire (as land) by preemption
2 : to seize upon to the exclusion of others : take for oneself
3 : to replace with something considered to be of greater value or priority : take precedence over
4 : to gain a commanding or preeminent place in
5 : to prevent from happening or taking place : FORESTALL, PRECLUDE (emphasis mine)
The Liberal's Dictionary Companion
preempt v.
1 : to forswear diplomacy
2 : to invade and conquer
3 : to broadcast the "State of the Union" speech rather than "The West Wing" or "Survivor"
An Indelible Stain ....
Another Vietnam veteran makes his statement in this article regarding Kerry's participation in the "Winter Soldier" campaign (See here).
Here's a sample ...
" ... Sen. Kerry has also demonstrated an utter lack of shame in scolding George W. Bush for bring up the subject of Viet Nam, when the President was questioned by reporters about his military service. Mr. Kerry dragged Vietnam into this campaign and now whines that somehow George W. Bush is at fault for bringing up the subject and trying to defend himself.
My shipmates and I served honorably in Vietnam and returned home, almost to a man, to resume normal lives, start families and businesses, get civilian jobs, pursue further education...all the normal stuff that veterans have been doing since after the Revolutionary War. That Mr. Kerry, a former naval officer and fellow Vietnam veteran, would say such things about us remains an indelible stain upon his name and honor.
Mr. Kerry has disgraced himself, by action and word, showing the whole world that he is foremost a career minded, self-centered opportunist, abetted by situational morality and driven by a lust for personal fortune at any cost. If he had any sense of honor, he would not attack President. Bush, but instead apologize to my shipmates, the rest of the US armed forces, and then to the American public, for they deserve far better than anything this stained, pitiful man has to offer... "
In my opinion, the author of the article "hit the nail on the head" with regard to his description of Kerry's (lack of) character.
Here's a sample ...
" ... Sen. Kerry has also demonstrated an utter lack of shame in scolding George W. Bush for bring up the subject of Viet Nam, when the President was questioned by reporters about his military service. Mr. Kerry dragged Vietnam into this campaign and now whines that somehow George W. Bush is at fault for bringing up the subject and trying to defend himself.
My shipmates and I served honorably in Vietnam and returned home, almost to a man, to resume normal lives, start families and businesses, get civilian jobs, pursue further education...all the normal stuff that veterans have been doing since after the Revolutionary War. That Mr. Kerry, a former naval officer and fellow Vietnam veteran, would say such things about us remains an indelible stain upon his name and honor.
Mr. Kerry has disgraced himself, by action and word, showing the whole world that he is foremost a career minded, self-centered opportunist, abetted by situational morality and driven by a lust for personal fortune at any cost. If he had any sense of honor, he would not attack President. Bush, but instead apologize to my shipmates, the rest of the US armed forces, and then to the American public, for they deserve far better than anything this stained, pitiful man has to offer... "
In my opinion, the author of the article "hit the nail on the head" with regard to his description of Kerry's (lack of) character.
The "Left" coast ...
I've read many articles regarding the left wing fanatics on the West coast, but this article takes the cake.
An "institute of higher learning" expells a student based solely on her failure to conform to the prevailing ideology.
Another example of the liberal mentality ...
John Ray's blog, "Dissecting Leftism" carries a descriptive title that says it all ...
"Leftists just KNOW what's good for us. Conservatives need evidence"
... adding to this theme, Leftists don't hesitate to TELL us what is good for us, and if we don't agree, we're just "stupid"!
An "institute of higher learning" expells a student based solely on her failure to conform to the prevailing ideology.
Another example of the liberal mentality ...
John Ray's blog, "Dissecting Leftism" carries a descriptive title that says it all ...
"Leftists just KNOW what's good for us. Conservatives need evidence"
... adding to this theme, Leftists don't hesitate to TELL us what is good for us, and if we don't agree, we're just "stupid"!
Wednesday, February 25, 2004
The liberal mentality ...
President Bush is forced to take a stand regarding the gay marriage issue, and he is labeled by liberal elites as a "mob-monger".
This attack on the President's values conjurs up images of villagers rioting in the streets with torches and pitchforks.
All because he actually has convictions he believes in !
His hand was forced by the rampant lawlessness occuring on the "left" coast, and the continuing activities of judges legislating from the bench. Rather than letting the Democratic process run it's course, the majority is forced to swallow the will of the minority (see here).
So he is now a "mob-monger" because he took a stand against a particular liberal worldview, a worldview that is exclusive ... if you don't agree, you are obviously "an unenlightened Neanderthal".
This attack on the President's values conjurs up images of villagers rioting in the streets with torches and pitchforks.
All because he actually has convictions he believes in !
His hand was forced by the rampant lawlessness occuring on the "left" coast, and the continuing activities of judges legislating from the bench. Rather than letting the Democratic process run it's course, the majority is forced to swallow the will of the minority (see here).
So he is now a "mob-monger" because he took a stand against a particular liberal worldview, a worldview that is exclusive ... if you don't agree, you are obviously "an unenlightened Neanderthal".
Kerry courts veterans ...
Looks like Kerry is willing to continue to tout his Vietnam "experience" as an indication of his "leadership". He will be running a new TV ad in Georgia, that features Max Cleland in an attempt to make himself seem more palatable to veterans.
He's taking a big gamble ... promoting himself using his Vietnam experience opens him up to closer scrutiny of his record during that time period.
I'm sure that when the focus on his record is narrowed, veterans will see the true Kerry ... if they don't already !
He's taking a big gamble ... promoting himself using his Vietnam experience opens him up to closer scrutiny of his record during that time period.
I'm sure that when the focus on his record is narrowed, veterans will see the true Kerry ... if they don't already !
Tuesday, February 24, 2004
Bravo, Mr. President !
From the NY Times, reporting on the President kicking off his campaign in a speech last nite ...
... Without using Mr. Kerry's name, the president mocked him as a politician whose positions changed with the wind. The Democratic field, Mr. Bush said, is "for tax cuts and against them. For Nafta and against Nafta. For the Patriot Act and against the Patriot Act. In favor of liberating Iraq and opposed to it. And that's just one senator from Massachusetts." ...
For the whole article see here.
Well said, Mr. President ... Kerry's lack of conviction will become more and more obvious as his record is scrutinized.
... Without using Mr. Kerry's name, the president mocked him as a politician whose positions changed with the wind. The Democratic field, Mr. Bush said, is "for tax cuts and against them. For Nafta and against Nafta. For the Patriot Act and against the Patriot Act. In favor of liberating Iraq and opposed to it. And that's just one senator from Massachusetts." ...
For the whole article see here.
Well said, Mr. President ... Kerry's lack of conviction will become more and more obvious as his record is scrutinized.
Kerry was wrong
From Hugh Hewitt ...
*Kerry was wrong about the Viet Cong.
*Kerry was wrong about the North Vietnamese.
*Kerry was wrong about the Cubans in Grenada.
*Kerry was wrong about the Sandanistas in Nicaragua.
*Kerry was wrong about the Soviets and their reaction to Reagan's defense build-up.
*Kerry was wrong about Saddam in 1991.
*Kerry was wrong about Saddam in 2003.
" Why would we bet the country's national security on Kerry finally getting something right ... ? "
*Kerry was wrong about the Viet Cong.
*Kerry was wrong about the North Vietnamese.
*Kerry was wrong about the Cubans in Grenada.
*Kerry was wrong about the Sandanistas in Nicaragua.
*Kerry was wrong about the Soviets and their reaction to Reagan's defense build-up.
*Kerry was wrong about Saddam in 1991.
*Kerry was wrong about Saddam in 2003.
" Why would we bet the country's national security on Kerry finally getting something right ... ? "
No more terror threat ??
Do you believe that the threat of a terrorist attack on American soil (or on the soil of any other "Western" democracy) is over ? Just because there hasn't been one lately ? As reported in this Fox News article the Islamofascists are still around !
The American public has a short memory when it's "comfort zone" is involved. Recent polls seem to indicate that the economy and health care are more important election year issues than are national security issues.
Well guess what, if another terror attack occurs, and is successful, what happens to the economy ? What happened after 9/11 ?
Even though we've lived in relative security for the past 2 1/2 years does not mean the threat is gone.
The President needs to push national security as a campaign issue, as suggested in this article by Dick Morris, and the American people need to resurrect the resolve that seems to be slipping away ....
The American public has a short memory when it's "comfort zone" is involved. Recent polls seem to indicate that the economy and health care are more important election year issues than are national security issues.
Well guess what, if another terror attack occurs, and is successful, what happens to the economy ? What happened after 9/11 ?
Even though we've lived in relative security for the past 2 1/2 years does not mean the threat is gone.
The President needs to push national security as a campaign issue, as suggested in this article by Dick Morris, and the American people need to resurrect the resolve that seems to be slipping away ....
" In order to get to where he is today, to run for president, John Kerry had to wade through the blood of American servicemen still on the battlefield in 1971."
-- Ted Sampley, former Green Beret, founder of VietnamVeteransAgainstJohnKerry.com
-- Ted Sampley, former Green Beret, founder of VietnamVeteransAgainstJohnKerry.com
Kerry the "Sunshine Soldier"
Another website, WinterSoldier.com has been launched that illustrates Kerry's outlandish anti-war words and actions. The details are reported in this article. The interesting point regarding this new site is that it purports to provide the most complete documentation to date of Kerry's activities.
Jihad TV ....
This article from Frontpage magazine reports on the NY Times efforts to portray Al-Jazeera TV as "fair and balanced" !!
Monday, February 23, 2004
Dissecting Leftism is an interesting blog from a "Down Under" conservative. There are many insightful articles ... definitely a good read!
Mean and Nasty GOP ??
A report off the AP wire today is headlined:
Study: GOP leans to negativity most
The study, performed by University of Missouri professor William Benoit, found that during much of the last half-century, Republican presidential candidates have aimed a larger proportion of their attacks at their opponents' character -- their honesty, integrity, leadership skills -- than their Democratic rivals. A component of this study was based on TV campaign ads aired between 1952 and 2000, and the results indicated that GOP candidates focused 44% of their attacks on such issues, as compared to 33% for the Democrats.
Does this study then affirm the liberals contention that the GOP is the party of the "mean and nasty" ? Not at all ....
It makes sense that for an attack ad against an opponent to even be considered by a candidate, the target of the ad must be perceived to be vulnerable. There must be some perceived (or actual) character flaw that could possibly be "exploited".
For the attack ad to work, the target audience (the general populace) must also perceive and agree to the alleged character flaw. On the other hand, if the target audience does not believe the accusations, or does not perceive any character flaws, the ad may very well have negative consequences for the candidate producing the ad.
It makes no sense to produce an ad that is not expected to work, and following this line of reasoning to it's logical conclusion seems to indicate that perhaps the Democrats did not use attack ads as much as GOP candidates because there were no character flaws that could be exploited! Again, conversely, perhaps GOP candidates used such advertising simply because the flaws were there to exploit!
Study: GOP leans to negativity most
The study, performed by University of Missouri professor William Benoit, found that during much of the last half-century, Republican presidential candidates have aimed a larger proportion of their attacks at their opponents' character -- their honesty, integrity, leadership skills -- than their Democratic rivals. A component of this study was based on TV campaign ads aired between 1952 and 2000, and the results indicated that GOP candidates focused 44% of their attacks on such issues, as compared to 33% for the Democrats.
Does this study then affirm the liberals contention that the GOP is the party of the "mean and nasty" ? Not at all ....
It makes sense that for an attack ad against an opponent to even be considered by a candidate, the target of the ad must be perceived to be vulnerable. There must be some perceived (or actual) character flaw that could possibly be "exploited".
For the attack ad to work, the target audience (the general populace) must also perceive and agree to the alleged character flaw. On the other hand, if the target audience does not believe the accusations, or does not perceive any character flaws, the ad may very well have negative consequences for the candidate producing the ad.
It makes no sense to produce an ad that is not expected to work, and following this line of reasoning to it's logical conclusion seems to indicate that perhaps the Democrats did not use attack ads as much as GOP candidates because there were no character flaws that could be exploited! Again, conversely, perhaps GOP candidates used such advertising simply because the flaws were there to exploit!
Presidential Match Test
Try this out .... At this site sponsored by AOL and Time, you can take a quick "survey".
This survey asks questions regarding your views about issues of concern. Your answers are compared to the Presidential candidates positions regarding these same issues, and at the end of the survey, each candidate is scored regarding how closely their views match yours.
When you reach the page asking party affiliation, DO NOT click either party if you want the comparisons made for all candidates !
Here's my scores:
Bush = 100%
Edwards = 44%
Kerry = 42%
Dean = 33%
Sharpton = 20%
Kucinich = 12%
Of course, some of the Democratic "contestants" are no longer with us, but the survey is still interesting !
This survey asks questions regarding your views about issues of concern. Your answers are compared to the Presidential candidates positions regarding these same issues, and at the end of the survey, each candidate is scored regarding how closely their views match yours.
When you reach the page asking party affiliation, DO NOT click either party if you want the comparisons made for all candidates !
Here's my scores:
Bush = 100%
Edwards = 44%
Kerry = 42%
Dean = 33%
Sharpton = 20%
Kucinich = 12%
Of course, some of the Democratic "contestants" are no longer with us, but the survey is still interesting !
More "Political Correctness"
Another excellent article from the City Journal of the Manhattan Institute. PC is now even encroaching into the halls of the oldest private schools in America ....
Satire: Stranger than fact ...
Kerry's most feverent supporters ...
The Tehran Times recently published a campaign letter that was sent by the Kerry camp to the Iranian leadership. In the letter Kerry promised to "...repair the damage done by the current administration...".
This editorial cartoon and article best describes the results that can be expected ...
This editorial cartoon and article best describes the results that can be expected ...
"We are at war, and one of our political parties doesn't know it"
Rowan Scarborough, defense reporter for the Washington Times, has written a book called "Rumsfeld's War". Book excepts are now being published, in part, in the Washington Times, and today the Powerline blog presents an excellent article with some excerpts from the book used to support the reasons that we, as a country, must NEVER go back to the Clinton era perception that terrorism is just a "criminal" act.
A loss of our focus on the war against terrorism will result in losing the war against terrorism.
A loss of our focus on the war against terrorism will result in losing the war against terrorism.
Kerry's Whining
Over the weekend, I read several stories reporting that Kerry had sent a letter to the Whitehouse blasting the Bush camp for supposedly "... attacking his war record for political gain".
Wait a minute ... wasn't it less than two weeks ago that he and the rest of the Dem's were furiously shouting "deserter" and "AWOL" at the President ??
Who started this "fight" ?? Isn't it only fair that both records be examined ?
Now that the scrutiny of his own record is intensifying, Kerry's becoming more and more nervous ... with good cause in my opinion ... thus his latest "whine" through the press.
This issue is also a good yardstick for the man's commitment against an adversary, whether it be political, or should he become President, God forbid, against an enemy of our country. Does he have the will and commitment to see a difficult battle through to it's conclusion ?
... Doesn't look like it. When the going gets tough ... whine about it !
Wait a minute ... wasn't it less than two weeks ago that he and the rest of the Dem's were furiously shouting "deserter" and "AWOL" at the President ??
Who started this "fight" ?? Isn't it only fair that both records be examined ?
Now that the scrutiny of his own record is intensifying, Kerry's becoming more and more nervous ... with good cause in my opinion ... thus his latest "whine" through the press.
This issue is also a good yardstick for the man's commitment against an adversary, whether it be political, or should he become President, God forbid, against an enemy of our country. Does he have the will and commitment to see a difficult battle through to it's conclusion ?
... Doesn't look like it. When the going gets tough ... whine about it !
The Patriot Act
Liberals and Democrats have been attacking the Patriot Act by characterizing it as "eroding civil liberties and basic freedoms". A recent article by a University professor summarized the liberal "position". The principle author of the Patriot Act responds in part to some of the objections raised in the professor's article.
Personally, I don't have anything to hide ... the FBI is welcome to review my library record !!!
Personally, I don't have anything to hide ... the FBI is welcome to review my library record !!!
Another example of the liberal's finest ...
As I was on my way in to work this morning, I heard this statement on the radio. The statement was reportedly made by another of Hollywood's great "braintrusts", Ethan Hawke. In an interview for "Details" magazine, a magazine for men that is in it's own words, "A distinctive and daring magazine for men who are passionate about adventure, style, music, fashion, sports, politics, humor, and pop culture" (i.e. another "fluff" mag), he stated that "...cheaters make better leaders...".
What ?!?!?!?!
What kind of mindset can lead to this absurd conclusion? A cheater is a better leader? A cheater is a liar, lying by actions. How can anyone be expected to follow a leader that is not truthful? Leadership is all about trust. To follow a leader is to place trust, and some measure of control over your actions in the hands of that leader. How can one place that trust if there is any concern regarding the truthfulness of the leader?
Sounds to me like another liberal rationalization for the "leadership" provided during the previous Presidency ...
What ?!?!?!?!
What kind of mindset can lead to this absurd conclusion? A cheater is a better leader? A cheater is a liar, lying by actions. How can anyone be expected to follow a leader that is not truthful? Leadership is all about trust. To follow a leader is to place trust, and some measure of control over your actions in the hands of that leader. How can one place that trust if there is any concern regarding the truthfulness of the leader?
Sounds to me like another liberal rationalization for the "leadership" provided during the previous Presidency ...
Friday, February 20, 2004
Above the law ...
The recent flurry of illegal activity in San Francisco is amazing to behold. On one hand, an Alabama judge breaking the law with regard to a monument in a courthouse gets raked over the coals by the media, and then "fired". On the other hand, the SF mayor allows the law to be broken, the media praises his efforts, and he remains defiant and "employed". Do you really still believe that there is no media "bias" ?
I won't make a comment regarding the gay marriage issue, but a much more detailed discussion of the issue can be found at Dr. Keith Burgess-Jackson's blog.
I won't make a comment regarding the gay marriage issue, but a much more detailed discussion of the issue can be found at Dr. Keith Burgess-Jackson's blog.
Kerry the "war hero"
My father, a Vietnam veteran, was a fighter pilot. He flew the F-100 fighter-bomber, and did a tour of duty in-country during 1967-68. He was decorated many times and received the Distinguished Flying Cross and several clusters. This was quite an accomplishment during a time when guided missiles were a pilot's dream, and the F-100 performed, in my father's own words, "...like a lead sled."
As the son of a military veteran, I am increasingly suspicious of Kerry's service record. He has been promoted by the Democrats as a "war hero", and DNC chairman Terry McAuliff stated that he has a "chest full of medals". I am obviously not the only person to question Kerry's record, as can be seen in this article. A Vietnam veteran with personal experience of the type of combat operations Kerry participated in writes to express his suspicions.
As the son of a military veteran, I am increasingly suspicious of Kerry's service record. He has been promoted by the Democrats as a "war hero", and DNC chairman Terry McAuliff stated that he has a "chest full of medals". I am obviously not the only person to question Kerry's record, as can be seen in this article. A Vietnam veteran with personal experience of the type of combat operations Kerry participated in writes to express his suspicions.
Thursday, February 19, 2004
Blatant Hypocrisy
A post today on PowerLine details the reports published in today's LA Times concerning Kerry's involvement with the hated "special interests". Since he has presented his opposition to "special interests" as a key theme of his campaign, when the facts are known, his astounding hypocrisy is clearly visible.
Wednesday, February 18, 2004
Kerry the "common man" ...
Kerry campaigns as one who will not be influenced by special interests, as one who can identify with the "common man". (Most common men do not marry rich heiresses ... twice ! )
So it was with great irony that he campaigned today from the deck of his 2.5 million dollar, 60 foot yacht ! Personally, I don't know anybody that owns a sloop, much less a 60 foot yacht, and I guess that I'm about as "common" as they come! The report is that he bought the yacht in December of 2003.
I wonder if his campaign finances will stand scrutiny !!??
So it was with great irony that he campaigned today from the deck of his 2.5 million dollar, 60 foot yacht ! Personally, I don't know anybody that owns a sloop, much less a 60 foot yacht, and I guess that I'm about as "common" as they come! The report is that he bought the yacht in December of 2003.
I wonder if his campaign finances will stand scrutiny !!??
The "Ann Landers" of politics ...
Advice columns can be interesting, but when a column combines politics and humor, it can be a real scream. The "advice columnist" from Frontpage Magazine responds to an irritated Senator in this column, and responds to the object of his ire in this column. What a hilarious read !
Tuesday, February 17, 2004
Is the President really "stupid" ??
An article by Thomas Lifson, an alumnus of Harvard Business School, refutes the mudslinging by the Dems.
Lest We Forget ...
I have a magnet on my refrigerator that has a picture of the Twin Towers and a pair of F-16's doing a fly-by. The caption on the picture states "Never Forget. Stay Focused, Stay Free".
The President recently made a speech that is posted on the FrontPage Magazine website. Please read it and decide for yourself what the President's priorities are.
Never forget ....
The President recently made a speech that is posted on the FrontPage Magazine website. Please read it and decide for yourself what the President's priorities are.
Never forget ....
Sunday, February 15, 2004
"Stupid" conservatives ?????
Have you ever noticed that liberals go out of their way to avoid using "labels", except, of course, when they are referring to conservatives. Liberal elites look down on conservatives, and consider them "stupid". If one doesn't embrace their twisted ideology, it must be because they lack the intelligence to understand, right ?
One recent addition to the liberal label dictionary is "neo-con". A dictionary might define "neo" as a prefix that means "new, or recent", but to the liberal this prefix is much more obviously derived from "Neolithic". Notice the association ? The term "Neolithic" evokes images of hairy, large browed, knuckle-dragging pre-humans with sloped foreheads. Obviously not nearly as developed and intellectual as the liberal using the label! Conservativism is not "new", regardless of how much of a threat it poses to the liberal left.
Have you ever heard the label "neo-liberal" used ? I didn't think so ....
Don't believe the liberals think you are stupid if you are a conservative ? How many celebrities have publicly stated that President Bush is "stupid" ? (Note that many making this statement did not attend any institution of higher learning, and some did not finish high school !)
By the way, since many Southerners are conservative, if you are from the South, you are fair game. I challenge you to watch one episode of "The Tonight Show" and count the number of "stupid Bush" jokes made during Jay Leno's monologue. Also count the number of times Southerners are painted as stupid (hillbillies, hayseeds, rednecks, etc.).
You may be surprised ...
One recent addition to the liberal label dictionary is "neo-con". A dictionary might define "neo" as a prefix that means "new, or recent", but to the liberal this prefix is much more obviously derived from "Neolithic". Notice the association ? The term "Neolithic" evokes images of hairy, large browed, knuckle-dragging pre-humans with sloped foreheads. Obviously not nearly as developed and intellectual as the liberal using the label! Conservativism is not "new", regardless of how much of a threat it poses to the liberal left.
Have you ever heard the label "neo-liberal" used ? I didn't think so ....
Don't believe the liberals think you are stupid if you are a conservative ? How many celebrities have publicly stated that President Bush is "stupid" ? (Note that many making this statement did not attend any institution of higher learning, and some did not finish high school !)
By the way, since many Southerners are conservative, if you are from the South, you are fair game. I challenge you to watch one episode of "The Tonight Show" and count the number of "stupid Bush" jokes made during Jay Leno's monologue. Also count the number of times Southerners are painted as stupid (hillbillies, hayseeds, rednecks, etc.).
You may be surprised ...
Questions for Kerry ...
Writer for the Washington Post Writers Group, George Will, published an excellent article posing questions that Kerry should be required to respond to.
Please read this thought provoking article. It raises many questions about the potential leadership inadequacies of the leading Democratic candidate.
Please read this thought provoking article. It raises many questions about the potential leadership inadequacies of the leading Democratic candidate.
Added web-stats counter ...
I've added a stats counter to the page today. It started at "zero" and hopefully it will reach a count larger than "ten" !!
Saturday, February 14, 2004
Blog update ...
Just added an e-mail link for feedback !
Another Shining Example of the Media's Finest
An article today in the New York Distortions ... uh ... Times (excuse me) by Michael Janofsky reports on Senator McCain's defense of John Kerry. In the article "Hanoi" Jane Fonda is referred to as "...so outspoken against the war that she was labeled a communist by her political opponents."
Funny, I don't recall that she was serving in public office at the time, so who were these "political opponents".
And she was certainly more than "outspoken" in her criticism of the war, she visited the enemy's capitol city and denounced the American troops as "baby killers, rapists, murderers, and thugs". Waving a North Vietnamese flag at rallies in support of a communist dictatorial regime qualifies you as a communist in my book !
In a book published by a North Vietnamese general ( I'll dig up the exact reference and post it later), the General stated that North Vietnam was ready to capitulate, but the support on the "American homefront" by people like Hanoi Jane and Hanoi John convinced their leaders to continue the fight.
How many additional American soldiers lost their lives because of the support of these two "Americans" for a communist regime ?
Funny, I don't recall that she was serving in public office at the time, so who were these "political opponents".
And she was certainly more than "outspoken" in her criticism of the war, she visited the enemy's capitol city and denounced the American troops as "baby killers, rapists, murderers, and thugs". Waving a North Vietnamese flag at rallies in support of a communist dictatorial regime qualifies you as a communist in my book !
In a book published by a North Vietnamese general ( I'll dig up the exact reference and post it later), the General stated that North Vietnam was ready to capitulate, but the support on the "American homefront" by people like Hanoi Jane and Hanoi John convinced their leaders to continue the fight.
How many additional American soldiers lost their lives because of the support of these two "Americans" for a communist regime ?
The Radical Left in Academia
This article from the Tech Central Station website provides one of the most comprehensive analyses for the "overabundance" of the far-left in our academic sphere.
Friday, February 13, 2004
Financier of the Radical Left
This is a scary article. I am always amazed at the methods used by liberals to promote their "causes". Read the article and then imagine Teresa Heinz-Kerry as your First Lady ... Can you say "Hillary II" ?
A Better Iraq ...
The following is a letter to the editor of the ST. Cloud University newspaper. It was sent by an American soldier in Iraq. A student group put out a "Hometown" calendar as a show of support for the troops.
The soldier's commentary shows a very different Iraq from what is presented in the liberal media !
Hometown Proud is a hit in the Iraqi desert
I'd like to address two points in this letter. On the first one, I am a soldier who is deployed overseas, and I would like to thank the people who have put so much time and effort into the Hometown Proud calender. I can safely speak on behalf of my fellow soldiers when I say that it is quite appreciated. On the second point, I'd like to comment on the current situation in Iraq. Everyone is aware that David Kay's report indicated that stockpiles of WMD have not yet been found in Iraq. Few people seem to be aware that the very same report showed that the WMD programs were in place, and that David Kay said that he felt they might have been even more dangerous then we originally thought.
I will be the first to celebrate if future investigations prove that all of Saddam's secret labs were dedicated to finding the cure to cancer, but for some reason, I doubt that will happen. Saddam was a dangerous man. We are all better off with him behind bars. I have personally seen some of the atrocities he committed on his own people. I don't think that there is very much that could convince me that we are doing the wrong thing in Iraq.
Last year at this time, if an Iraqi spoke openly about their government, they would have their tongue cut out, or worse. This year, they are publicly gathering to debate the future of their country. If you could be here to feel the rush of excitement, and the joy for freedom that a culture feels when it is pulled out from the oppression of a brutal madman, then you might understand how important this is. Things probably won't go perfectly in Iraq. They definitely live in a dangerous neighborhood. But to the people here, the important thing is that they have a chance. It's a chance that they never really expected to get, and only hoped for in their wildest dreams.
Trust me when I say that witnessing the realization of that chance is better then any Fourth of July barbecue I have ever been at back in the States.
SPC Dan Franck
SCSU Student
D. Co. 234th SIG BN
Central Iraq
The soldier's commentary shows a very different Iraq from what is presented in the liberal media !
Hometown Proud is a hit in the Iraqi desert
I'd like to address two points in this letter. On the first one, I am a soldier who is deployed overseas, and I would like to thank the people who have put so much time and effort into the Hometown Proud calender. I can safely speak on behalf of my fellow soldiers when I say that it is quite appreciated. On the second point, I'd like to comment on the current situation in Iraq. Everyone is aware that David Kay's report indicated that stockpiles of WMD have not yet been found in Iraq. Few people seem to be aware that the very same report showed that the WMD programs were in place, and that David Kay said that he felt they might have been even more dangerous then we originally thought.
I will be the first to celebrate if future investigations prove that all of Saddam's secret labs were dedicated to finding the cure to cancer, but for some reason, I doubt that will happen. Saddam was a dangerous man. We are all better off with him behind bars. I have personally seen some of the atrocities he committed on his own people. I don't think that there is very much that could convince me that we are doing the wrong thing in Iraq.
Last year at this time, if an Iraqi spoke openly about their government, they would have their tongue cut out, or worse. This year, they are publicly gathering to debate the future of their country. If you could be here to feel the rush of excitement, and the joy for freedom that a culture feels when it is pulled out from the oppression of a brutal madman, then you might understand how important this is. Things probably won't go perfectly in Iraq. They definitely live in a dangerous neighborhood. But to the people here, the important thing is that they have a chance. It's a chance that they never really expected to get, and only hoped for in their wildest dreams.
Trust me when I say that witnessing the realization of that chance is better then any Fourth of July barbecue I have ever been at back in the States.
SPC Dan Franck
SCSU Student
D. Co. 234th SIG BN
Central Iraq
Thursday, February 12, 2004
More on Bush and National Guard service
This letter to the editor of the Washington Times should help dispel any remaining "myths" regarding the President's National Guard service.
Wednesday, February 11, 2004
Mexico's Best ....
Bush Lied ! ???
All of the furor over WMD's has me perplexed ... It seems like the members of Congress wailing the loudest and gnashing their teeth are the ones that provided the biggest "sound bites" in the past ! Here are just a few:
* "One way or the other, we are determined to deny Iraq the capacity to develop weapons of mass destruction and the missiles to deliver them. That is our bottom line."
- President Clinton, Feb. 4, 1998
* "If Saddam rejects peace and we have to use force, our purpose is clear. We want to seriously diminish the threat posed by Iraq's weapons of mass destruction program."
- President Clinton, Feb. 17, 1998
* "Iraq is a long way from [the USA], but what happens there matters a great deal here. For the risks that the leaders of a rogue state will use nuclear, chemical or biological weapons against us or our allies is the greatest security threat we face."
- Madeline Albright, Feb 18, 1998
* "He will use those weapons of mass destruction again, as he has ten times since 1983."
- Sandy Berger, Clinton National Security Adviser, Feb, 18, 1998
* "[W]e urge you, after consulting with Congress, and consistent with the U.S. Constitution and laws, to take necessary actions (including, if appropriate, air and missile strikes on suspect Iraqi sites) to respond effectively to the threat posed by Iraq's refusal to end its weapons of mass destruction programs."
- Letter to President Clinton, signed by Sens. Carl Levin, Tom Daschle, John Kerry, and others Oct. 9, 1998
* "Saddam Hussein has been engaged in the development of weapons of mass destruction technology which is a threat to countries in the region and he has made a mockery of the weapons inspection process."
- Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D, CA), Dec. 16, 1998
* "Hussein has ... chosen to spend his money on building weapons of mass destruction and palaces for his cronies."
- Madeline Albright, Clinton Secretary of State, Nov. 10, 1999
* "There is no doubt that ... Saddam Hussein has invigorated his weapons programs. Reports indicate that biological, chemical and nuclear programs continue apace and may be back to pre-Gulf War status. In addition, Saddam continues to redefine delivery systems and is doubtless using the cover of a licit missile program to develop longer range missiles that will threaten the United States and our allies."
- Letter to President Bush, Signed by Sen. Bob Graham (D, FL,) and others, December 5, 2001
* "We begin with the common belief that Saddam Hussein is a tyrant and a threat to the peace and stability of the region. He has ignored the mandates of the United Nations and is building weapons of mass destruction and the means of delivering them."
- Sen. Carl Levin (D, MI), Sept. 19, 2002
* "We know that he has stored secret supplies of biological and chemical weapons throughout his country."
- Al Gore, Sept. 23, 2002
* "Iraq's search for weapons of mass destruction has proven impossible to deter and we should assume that it will continue for as long as Saddam is in power."
- Al Gore, Sept. 23, 2002
* "We have known for many years that Saddam Hussein is seeking and developing weapons of mass destruction."
- Sen. Ted Kennedy (D, MA), Sept. 27, 2002
* "The last UN weapons inspectors left Iraq in October of 1998. We are confident that Saddam Hussein retains some stockpiles of chemical and biological weapons, and that he has since embarked on a crash course to build up his chemical and biological warfare capabilities. Intelligence reports indicate that he is seeking nuclear weapons..."
- Sen. Robert Byrd (D, WV), Oct. 3, 2002
* "I will be voting to give the President of the United States the authority to use force-- if necessary-- to disarm Saddam Hussein because I believe that a deadly arsenal of weapons of mass destruction in his hands is a real and grave threat to our security."
- Sen. John F. Kerry (D, MA), Oct. 9, 2002
* "There is unmistakable evidence that Saddam Hussein is working aggressively to develop nuclear weapons and will likely have nuclear weapons within the next five years ... We also should remember we have always underestimated the progress Saddam has made in development of weapons of mass destruction."
- Sen. Jay Rockefeller (D, WV), Oct 10, 2002
* "He has systematically violated, over the course of the past 11 years, every significant UN resolution that has demanded that he disarm and destroy his chemical and biological weapons, and any nuclear capacity. This he has refused to do"
- Rep. Henry Waxman (D, CA), Oct. 10, 2002
* "In the four years since the inspectors left, intelligence reports show that Saddam Hussein has worked to rebuild his chemical and biological weapons stock, his missile delivery capability, and his nuclear program. He has also given aid, comfort, and sanctuary to terrorists, including Al Qaeda members ... It is clear, however, that if left unchecked, Saddam Hussein will continue to increase his capacity to wage biological and chemical warfare, and will keep trying to develop nuclear weapons."
- Sen. Hillary Clinton (D, NY), Oct 10, 2002
* "We are in possession of what I think to be compelling evidence that Saddam Hussein has, and has had for a number of years, a developing capacity for the production and storage of weapons of mass destruction."
- Sen. Bob Graham (D, FL), Dec. 8, 2002
* "Without question, we need to disarm Saddam Hussein. He is a brutal, murderous dictator, leading an oppressive regime ... He presents a particularly grievous threat because he is so consistently prone to miscalculation ... And now he is miscalculating America's response to his continued deceit and his consistent grasp for weapons of mass destruction. So the threat of Saddam Hussein with weapons of mass destruction is real ..."
- Sen. John F. Kerry (D, MA), Jan. 23. 2003
* "One way or the other, we are determined to deny Iraq the capacity to develop weapons of mass destruction and the missiles to deliver them. That is our bottom line."
- President Clinton, Feb. 4, 1998
* "If Saddam rejects peace and we have to use force, our purpose is clear. We want to seriously diminish the threat posed by Iraq's weapons of mass destruction program."
- President Clinton, Feb. 17, 1998
* "Iraq is a long way from [the USA], but what happens there matters a great deal here. For the risks that the leaders of a rogue state will use nuclear, chemical or biological weapons against us or our allies is the greatest security threat we face."
- Madeline Albright, Feb 18, 1998
* "He will use those weapons of mass destruction again, as he has ten times since 1983."
- Sandy Berger, Clinton National Security Adviser, Feb, 18, 1998
* "[W]e urge you, after consulting with Congress, and consistent with the U.S. Constitution and laws, to take necessary actions (including, if appropriate, air and missile strikes on suspect Iraqi sites) to respond effectively to the threat posed by Iraq's refusal to end its weapons of mass destruction programs."
- Letter to President Clinton, signed by Sens. Carl Levin, Tom Daschle, John Kerry, and others Oct. 9, 1998
* "Saddam Hussein has been engaged in the development of weapons of mass destruction technology which is a threat to countries in the region and he has made a mockery of the weapons inspection process."
- Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D, CA), Dec. 16, 1998
* "Hussein has ... chosen to spend his money on building weapons of mass destruction and palaces for his cronies."
- Madeline Albright, Clinton Secretary of State, Nov. 10, 1999
* "There is no doubt that ... Saddam Hussein has invigorated his weapons programs. Reports indicate that biological, chemical and nuclear programs continue apace and may be back to pre-Gulf War status. In addition, Saddam continues to redefine delivery systems and is doubtless using the cover of a licit missile program to develop longer range missiles that will threaten the United States and our allies."
- Letter to President Bush, Signed by Sen. Bob Graham (D, FL,) and others, December 5, 2001
* "We begin with the common belief that Saddam Hussein is a tyrant and a threat to the peace and stability of the region. He has ignored the mandates of the United Nations and is building weapons of mass destruction and the means of delivering them."
- Sen. Carl Levin (D, MI), Sept. 19, 2002
* "We know that he has stored secret supplies of biological and chemical weapons throughout his country."
- Al Gore, Sept. 23, 2002
* "Iraq's search for weapons of mass destruction has proven impossible to deter and we should assume that it will continue for as long as Saddam is in power."
- Al Gore, Sept. 23, 2002
* "We have known for many years that Saddam Hussein is seeking and developing weapons of mass destruction."
- Sen. Ted Kennedy (D, MA), Sept. 27, 2002
* "The last UN weapons inspectors left Iraq in October of 1998. We are confident that Saddam Hussein retains some stockpiles of chemical and biological weapons, and that he has since embarked on a crash course to build up his chemical and biological warfare capabilities. Intelligence reports indicate that he is seeking nuclear weapons..."
- Sen. Robert Byrd (D, WV), Oct. 3, 2002
* "I will be voting to give the President of the United States the authority to use force-- if necessary-- to disarm Saddam Hussein because I believe that a deadly arsenal of weapons of mass destruction in his hands is a real and grave threat to our security."
- Sen. John F. Kerry (D, MA), Oct. 9, 2002
* "There is unmistakable evidence that Saddam Hussein is working aggressively to develop nuclear weapons and will likely have nuclear weapons within the next five years ... We also should remember we have always underestimated the progress Saddam has made in development of weapons of mass destruction."
- Sen. Jay Rockefeller (D, WV), Oct 10, 2002
* "He has systematically violated, over the course of the past 11 years, every significant UN resolution that has demanded that he disarm and destroy his chemical and biological weapons, and any nuclear capacity. This he has refused to do"
- Rep. Henry Waxman (D, CA), Oct. 10, 2002
* "In the four years since the inspectors left, intelligence reports show that Saddam Hussein has worked to rebuild his chemical and biological weapons stock, his missile delivery capability, and his nuclear program. He has also given aid, comfort, and sanctuary to terrorists, including Al Qaeda members ... It is clear, however, that if left unchecked, Saddam Hussein will continue to increase his capacity to wage biological and chemical warfare, and will keep trying to develop nuclear weapons."
- Sen. Hillary Clinton (D, NY), Oct 10, 2002
* "We are in possession of what I think to be compelling evidence that Saddam Hussein has, and has had for a number of years, a developing capacity for the production and storage of weapons of mass destruction."
- Sen. Bob Graham (D, FL), Dec. 8, 2002
* "Without question, we need to disarm Saddam Hussein. He is a brutal, murderous dictator, leading an oppressive regime ... He presents a particularly grievous threat because he is so consistently prone to miscalculation ... And now he is miscalculating America's response to his continued deceit and his consistent grasp for weapons of mass destruction. So the threat of Saddam Hussein with weapons of mass destruction is real ..."
- Sen. John F. Kerry (D, MA), Jan. 23. 2003
Under Construction !
This is a new experience for me ... but after surfing so many excellent blogs, I had to try.
Bear with me as I learn how this works!
Bear with me as I learn how this works!