ThePointIsThis

Democrats Crazy Idea #1

2006-11-27T20:40:00.000-08:00

Of course it has begun. The Democrats are in control (or will be shortly), And they already float very unpopular ideas. I will try to keep track of them as they come out.

As only a Republican can wish, Charlie Rangel (D-NY) has floated they very unpopular idea of a draft. He send out the soundbite that it would equalize the status of all the boys & girls that join the service. Implying (like John Kerry (D-MA) before him) that only the stupid and poor join the Armed Forces. According to studies done, there are 3 "privileged" enlistees for every 2 "non-privileged" enlistees. In addition, all races are well represented. As usual, the liberals will say and do anything to create racial strife and class wars. Fortunately in this case, everyone recognizes the idiocy of it. We should only be so lucky on all of their dumb ideas.

Tort Reform

2006-11-18T20:22:00.000-08:00

People do discuss this topic time to time. Usually when weasels like John Edwards run for higher office. He became rich by using and more likely abusing our legal system. So while claiming to be for the little guy, all he does is enrich himself with bogus lawsuits. Think of how many people's lives he destroyed through loss of their jobs and livelihood. We really do need serious tort reform in this country.
A lot of people point to the British system of "loser pays" as an example of good policy. I disagree. "Loser Pays" amounts to the best lawyer wins, not justice I have a different idea. How about making contingency cases illegal. All the ambulance chasers would be out of business. If anyone has a real case, they will hire a real attorney. For those who cannot afford one, there are many legal aid groups that help the underprivileged. Mind you, sometimes they can be better because they are much more idealistic than other attorneys.
It is a proven fact that wasteful lawsuits cost all of us a tremendous amount of time and money in every facet of our life. Especially all types of insurances. Serious reform would enhance everyones standard of living in a tangible way.

Thumpin'

2006-11-11T18:43:00.000-08:00

Well, the Republicans sure got a "thumpin' " last week. Worse than most people thought. Without a question, they deserved it. They got too complacent their chairs of power. They began to spend money like Democrats. They got caught up in various scandals. In addition, they did not hold their ground against the Democrats to get anything done. (i.e. social security reform) The tax cuts (which have an expiration date) and the appointments of the Supreme Court Justices are about the only legacy that will remain positive.

There is s silver lining to all this. Now that the Democrats are in charge, Iraq is their problem. They will have to be constructive instead of criticizing all day long. None of their ridiculous ideas will get through with a Presidential veto. and the American people may have an opportunity to see that the ideas are ridiculous. All in all, it is likely that the government will not get much done over the next two years. And that is probably a good thing. Less government in my life , the better.

Election 2006

2006-11-06T21:12:00.000-08:00

While all the pundits (AKA talking heads) discuss the polls for Tuesday's election, I still cannot make up my mind who I would like to see win. Don't take me wrong. I know how I will vote. I just cannot figure out if I want the Republicans to lose or not. As a Party they have disappointed greatly since they swept into power in 1994. They forgot why they were there. They began to act like arrogant Democrats.

On the other hand, The likes of Pelosi (D-CA) , Conyers (D-MI), Reid (D-NV), Rangel (D-NY) and the like being in charge just might be too scary for me.
Just think.
Higher taxes.
More Handouts.
Less law enforcement.
Bad economy.
More Unemployment.
Just scary thoughts.

It may be too much just to teach the Republicans a lesson that they have strayed too far.

On the bright side, I think that if the Democrats take charge, especially if it is both the House and the Senate, then they have no chance of winning the White House in 2008. If the Republicans hold on the Democrats have a real chance to take the Presidency in 2008. (Unless of course they pick another loser like Kerry) Pick your poison. I will hold my nose and vote. You should too.

Republicans & Democrats

2006-11-02T19:31:00.000-08:00

As we approach the midterm general elections, it seems to me that it is time for another mainstream party to shake things up a little. The Democrats have only gone from bad to worse with their their criticism and lack of any ideas. The Republicans are guilty of acting like Democrats with their fiscal irresponsibility. If there was a viable third party, both Republicans and Democrats would have to define themselves better. The nation would be a better, more honest place for it.

Pope Benedict XVI and Islam

2006-09-19T13:49:00.000-07:00

I did not read the text of his speech, but what from I gather Pope Benedict XVI quoted a previous Pope who said Islam was violent. Guess what the Muslims do? They become violent. Basically proving his point. He apologizes. They do not care. It is another reason to rile up the "Muslim street". When the world truly understands the nature of this, maybe, just maybe they can begin to confront the madmen who perpetrate this. This is a battle of civilizations, and wars are only won with the vanquished. Until the entire western world resolves itself to beat back this madness of death and destruction , there will be no quiet anywhere.

9/11/2006

2006-09-11T12:06:00.000-07:00

Here we are on the the 5th anniversary of the attacks of September 11. Politics still rages. Those that hate President Bush will find any excuse to do so. Nelson Rockefeller (D-WV) says that the world would be better off with Saddam Hussein. Israel fumbles a war with Hezbollah. The ramifications of which will be felt far and wide. So far, Its leadership refuses to take responsibility and resign. (although we might get there yet).

So what have we learned. Too many of the citizens of the US still do not get the fact that the terrorists are evil. They do not care about a Constitution or Geneva Conventions. Letting them use them to their defense on their road to destroy them is an example of our collective naivete of the terrorists' intentions.

Although I might be getting ahead of myself. This all depends on what you call a terrorist. Of course, as the liberals in this country love to point out, one mans terrorist is another's freedom fighter. In that context, anything and anyone is game. The hypocrisy that goes along with it is what drives me nuts. There either are rules or there are not. You cannot have it both ways. One side plays by a set of rules that the other disregards unless it is to their advantage.

Our enemies know this, and know it well. They use it to their advantage all the time. They understand the naivete of the American public as well as the ease of manipulating them by using , what the soviets called "useful idiots". You see, the American people to our great credit are an understanding, extraordinarily charitable, kind and trusting Nation. When our enemies say they want to kill us, or even say they want to kill themselves or their children as long as it kills us, we do not want to believe it. It simply does not register. And then when they lie to our faces we take it at face value. We are too quick to trust, believe and forgive. And while this has made us a great country, we need to collectively wake up in order to effectively fight our enemies. The politics of it all will fall in line when the American public does.

Justice Souter

2006-03-25T21:12:00.000-08:00

I have not seen many people talk about it, but it is sure amazing that last week, the Supreme Court, with a conservative/liberal line vote, with Justice Alito abstaining, because he was not there by the arguments, said that police could not enter a home if some occupants did not allow even if others did. The quote I read from Souter was "a man's home is his castle". Details of the case aside because I do no know them, was not Souter part of the group that argued in the now infamous 'Kelo case' that the government can take the entire home? I guess it is his castle on the inside. But business as usual on the outside. You figure it out.

Dubai

2006-02-25T20:43:00.000-08:00

While clearly there is concern for foreigners controlling our ports. This applies to all foreigners. Allies or not. Today's allies are tomorrow's enemies and visa versa. While I am a hard core capitalist and a clear free trader all things pertaining to national security should be off-limits to foreigners. Period. We have enough trouble keeping Americans loyal to America. Though President Bush does have a point here about the sudden outcry from the liberals and democrats. They have suddenly become concerned for our national security with cries of recognizing realities. In any case, This is probably not a good idea. The proof is that former President and current America basher Carter likes it. This one is going to be sticky, but President Bush will have to come up with some face-saving compromise to get out of it.

Profound

2006-02-17T12:26:00.000-08:00

I got this emailed to me. Do not know who wrote it but well written nevertheless

Enjoy.

Subject: Profound

Written by an Australian Dentist...

To Kill an American

You probably missed it in the rush of news last week, but there was actually a report that someone in Pakistan had published in a newspaper an offer of a reward to anyone who killed an American, any American. So an Australian dentist wrote an editorial the following day to let everyone know what an American is . So they would know when they found one. (Good one, mate!!!!)

"An American is English, or French, or Italian, Irish, German, Spanish, Polish, Russian or Greek. An American may also be Canadian, Mexican, African, Indian, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Australian, Iranian, Asian, or Arab, or Pakistani or Afghan. An American may also be a Comanche, Cherokee, Osage, Blackfoot, Navaho, Apache, Seminole or one of the many other tribes known as native Americans. An American is Christian, or he could be Jewish, or Buddhist, or Muslim. In fact, there are more Muslims in America than in Afghanistan. The only difference is that in America they are free to worship as each of them chooses. An American is also free to believe in no religion. For that he will answer only to God, not to the government, or to armed thugs claiming to speak for the government and for God. An American lives in the most prosperous land in the history of the world. The root of that prosperity can be found in the Declaration of Independence, which recognizes the God given right of each person to the pursuit of happiness. An American is generous. Americans have helped out just about every other nation in the world in their time of need, never asking a thing in return. When Afghanistan was over-run by the Soviet army 20 years ago, Americans came with arms and supplies to enable the people to win back their country! As of the morning of September 11, Americans had given more than any other nation to the poor in Afghanistan. Americans welcome the best of everything...the best products, the best books, the best music, the best food, the best services. But they also welcome the least. The national symbol of America, The Statue of Liberty, welcomes your tired and your poor, the wretched refuse of your teeming shores, the homeless, tempest tossed. These in fact are the people who built America. Some of them were working in the Twin Towers the morning of September 11, 2001 earning a better life for their families. It's been told that the World Trade Center victims were from at least 30 different countries, cultures, and first languages, including those that aided and abetted the terrorists. So you can try to kill an American if you must. Hitler did. So did General Tojo, and Stalin, and Mao Tse-Tung, and other blood-thirsty tyrants in the world. But, in doing so you would just be killing yourself. Because Americans are not a particular people from a particular place. They are the embodiment of the human spirit of freedom. Everyone who holds to that spirit, everywhere, is an American.

Please keep this going! Pass this around the World then pass it around again. It says it all, for all of us!

The great ironies...

2006-02-04T21:41:00.000-08:00

Europe is burning (or European embassies) for printing a cartoon of The Prophet Muhammad depicted as a terrorist, the Islamofascists of the world are retaliating by doing what?.... You got it. Being terrorists. I never will understand the concept that when a "westerner" allegedly insults Islam, innocent civilians die and lots of property is destroyed. At the same time, this religion that is supposed to sanctify life, regularly blows themselves up in order to kill and maim as many innocents as possible. In many cases in their own houses of worship. The Mosque. I do not think I will ever understand the thought process that goes into this. If anyone will be so kind to explain it to me?

Judge Samuel Alito

2006-01-14T21:34:00.000-08:00

I spent a lot of time last week watching the confirmation hearings for Jude Samuel Alito. While he was not as calm, cool and collected as Judge Roberts was, he was very good. More importantly, he expressed the view that he would follow the law. You see, that is what this is about. Some people want to follow the law. Some do not. In this hearing, Ted Kennedy showed what a buffoon he is again. Joe Biden showed how much he liked his own voice. And Diane Feinstein apparently did not know the details of her own questions. They did get Mrs Alito to cry on national television, though. Nice work. Ann Coulter has a great column this week on the subject. In any case, while nothing is certain yet, this looks to be a done deal for now. Although I am sure that the Democrats will come up with something to act indignant and delay. So whatever you might think about President Bush, he will not be President after his term is up, but thankfully his judges will be there for life. May G-D bless America.

The Pot of Gold

2005-12-16T12:19:00.000-08:00

America's enemies, both within and otherwise, are cringing at the prospect of Iraq actually having a future. After all, this would mean that they were wrong and maybe the Iraqis will actually have a better future because of it. This would put them out of business, The elections that are taking place should be a sight for sore eyes. There are those that will criticize no matter what happens.

America is fighting a war against terrorists. Some people just do not understand that if we do not beat them wherever they are, they will never go away. We must beat them, without mercy or second guessing. We had many years of Islamofascists attacking US interests around the globe and we did nothing. This only fermented the belief that we were not ever going to do anything. At last, after 9/11 The United States has begun a systematic war against them. For that, we should all be grateful. No agreements will ever accomplish anything. Nor any concessions. We cannot accept anything from fanatics except total victory. Those that claim it is not possible, give aid to our enemies. We must only have the will to succeed and we will.

May G-d continue to bless the United States of America.

Impressive

2005-11-29T06:58:00.000-08:00

Senator Joseph Lieberman wrote a good editorial that was printed in today's Wall Street Journal. In short he says that the war is going well and the politicians in the United States, mostly Democrats but includes some Republicans are the greatest danger to victory in Iraq. The Iraqis are worried that the Americans will abandon them. President Bush has made it clear that he would not do so as long as he is President. Let us all hope that politics will not force him to change his mind.

While Joe Lieberman has disappointed me in the past with his blatant pandering to the left-wing of the democratic party, this essay is important and is important at this time. I congratulate him for having the courage to stand up to his party. It is about time somebody articulated the facts in Iraq from Iraq. Feelings from the new Iraqi government and the Army and Marines fighting the good fight on the ground. Apparently most Iraqis are happier today then they were under Saddam Hussein and the morale of our fighting forces is good. You would never know it from the news you see on television, but we always knew that they have their own agenda.

Lots to be thankful for

2005-11-24T10:53:00.000-08:00

It is true. In this great country, The United States of America, we have freedom. We have democracy, and therefore we have economic prosperity. I know that the liberal whiners love to point out all the bad things. Take them for who they are. Liberal whiners. Every country and every society has issues and has problems. Including us. I would take ours over anyone else's at any time. Does not mean we cannot strive to be better. Of course we can. I am just saying that there is a reason why everyone on this planet is trying to come to America. Sometimes legally and sometimes illegally. This is because more than any place on the planet, in America, there is opportunity for anyone to make themselves a better life. They only have to want it themselves. For this I am thankful to G-d almighty for giving the vision to our forefathers to set up this system . I am thankful to G-d that he has not allowed anyone to mess it up since. I pray to G-d that he will not allow anyone to mess it up in the future.

For this I offer thanksgiving and so should you.

Happy Thanksgiving.

Predictable

2005-11-23T14:18:00.000-08:00

After the Prime Minister initiated his horrible "disengagement plan", the left wing parties joined up with him to be sure that Israel gave as much land to the terrorists as possible. How politics makes for strange bedfellows. As expected, as soon as the arrogant and corrupt elected officials did exactly opposite of what they were elected to do and promised, the government fell apart. Sad but true. The only difference between the supposed "Democracy" in Israel and the Dictatorships of her neighbors are that her neighbors do not deny that they are a dictatorship. Nevertheless, the citizens of Israel never learn and continue to believe that when politicians promise and swear things in a campaign that will be truthful. Unfortunately, they never do an it has been going on since Israel's birth. At this time, these government have given the Sinai Peninsula to Egypt in exchange for a piece of paper. Of course, the Islamists that are gaining power do not need to recognize that. In the meantime , whatever arms they can get legally from America is great and then they get additional illicit arms from North Korea. ( I am sure all for peaceful means)

Israel occupied a safety zone in Southern Lebanon in order to protect in northern cities from constant bombardment at the time. So what happened? Israel pulls out without any agreements and sure enough, most citizens of those northern cities spend most of this week in shelters.

If the Israelis think that giving in to the terrorists will get them peace they are mistaken. Hopefully, If there is anything positive from the expulsion that took place in Gaza, It will be that the voters in Israel will finally vote these scoundrels out of office and replace them with people who understand that a strong Israel will bring peace and prosperity to Israel and the whole region. A weak Israel, one of giveaways and concessions, will bring no peace to anyone, for the terrorists will realize that through terror they will get their way.

Fighting Back

2005-11-19T20:17:00.000-08:00

I have to admit when I saw Senate Minority leader Harry Reid , Democrat of Nevada standing there with that look on his face telling the nation his ridiculous reasons why he forced the senate into closed session, I was angry but I knew that he got 'em. So finally, after this and many other attacks by the left-wing of the Democratic party, President Bush, VP Cheney and the Republicans are finally fighting back. The voters who put them in office want them to do it. I hope they do not back down and they do not let up. They should expose these liberals for what they are.

PS If only the Republicans would grow some backbone and stop spending all that pork , I would be happier

Fantastic Article

2005-11-15T10:41:00.000-08:00

Rabin's murder did little to advance the cause of Peace or the cause of his detractors. In fact, since he was the one who set up the unfortunate Oslo process, he would have been the only one who could have legitimately dismantled it. Instead, all who speak against it are vilifies and ostracized. I cannot say it better than this article I found on JPost.com by Sarah Honig.

Nov. 3, 2005 13:56 Updated Nov. 4, 2005 23:47

Another Tack: Another Arlosoroff affair By SARAH HONIG

Political correspondents don't have a life, but on November 4, 1995, I was supposed to enjoy a Saturday night off. A colleague went to the Left's rally in Kikar Malchei Yisrael. Being an incurable news junkie, however, I listened to live coverage with one ear, while the other was semi-tuned to my 11-year-old daughter's chatter as I was putting her to bed.
The assassination interrupted our cozy quality time.
"Another Arlosoroff affair," I exclaimed. My daughter quizzically chirped: "who's Arlosoroff?" I rushed to the phone, called the news desk, reported for duty, set Arlosoroff aside and switched into autopilot. I remember working intensely, racing against the deadline. By the time we put the paper to bed, I was out of breath.
At daylight Arlosoroff was back with a vengeance. Sixty-two years after the libel that ostracized the Revisionists - then a rising force with prospects of leading the Zionist movement - everything was disturbingly reminiscent of my mother's stories of 1933 Yishuv politics, when discrimination and vilification were the lot of anyone with even remote Revisionist associations.
Overnight posters materialized everywhere exhorting us to adhere to "Rabin's legacy." Anyone who dared voice dissent was instantly sullied. Allusions to the assassination not preceded by the obligatory adjective "repugnant" put you beyond the pale. Repeated mea culpas were required of those suspected of undesirable political persuasions.
I could see how in days of yore imperfect human beings - as Rabin undoubtedly was - were deified. A decade ago, in secular post-modern Israel, Rabin was all but canonized. It became heresy to refuse to subscribe to the new hagiography, remain avowedly and conscientiously unconverted to the incipient Rabin cult and resist revering him as a martyred saint. It was sacrilege to continue warning against the Oslo folly and its inevitable bloody consequences. It was imprudent to argue aloud that Rabin wasn't more right dead than alive.

For the rest of this article .. Click here

He is a loser.. Again..

2005-11-10T18:51:00.000-08:00

For those that follow Israeli politics, Shimon Peres, was repudiated by his own party, Labor. Amir Peretz, basically head of Israel's Labor unions, won the chairmanship of the party. He is a political newbie and has not government or foreign experience. As usual, Shimon Peres pouted and did not even make the customary concession call. This is not the first time Peres has lost an election. In fact, (all those out there may be able to correct me) I do think he has ever won an election. He has been Prime Minister several times due to resignations and assassinations. But never elected. Here is the million dollar question. Why is this loser called the 'Elder Statesman of Israel' when the Israelis (not only the citizenry, but also the elite and political class) repudiate him every time they get a chance?

Justice

2005-11-09T14:19:00.000-08:00

Unfortunately, people who do not value life have murdered scores of people again in Jordan. At what point will the people of this planet stopped justifying murder as a means to an ends? What I do know is that, unlike Israel, Jordan will have a free hand to pursue and bring to swift justice those that are responsible for this atrocity. Nobody will criticize them for protecting their citizens, and they should not. If only, all nations were held to the same standard we might not have all these problems in the first place. All of our prayers should go out to the innocent, And may the perpetrators and organizers of these murder get their due place in Hell.

Vive La France

2005-11-09T14:06:00.000-08:00

While the French love to lecture the world about the supremacy of their society and their culture, their underlying racism has come to the forefront in a vicious way. Rioting all over the country that is being perpetrated by thugs. Nevertheless, it brings their plight to world view and the French are embarrassed. Mostly second generation Muslim youth have torched property all over the country. They do not have a chance in that society, and the French thought they were immune from criticism because they were against the war in Iraq. At this point, they face a dilemma. Do they do what they need to do to bring this civil unrest to an end? Or do they justify it as they have justified and defended terrorism elsewhere on the planet. When they finally bring this to an end and bring the thugs to Justice, do they do the very same things that they have criticized others of recently? Or will they just blame America for their socialist policies and huge unemployment. My guess is that while there will be plenty of finger pointing, the voters will turn hard right, and the conservative policies will do that country and the rest of Europe good.

Politics as usual

2005-10-29T20:21:00.000-07:00

Scooter Libby, gets indicted for lying about something that was not a crime. Proving it will be hard but nevertheless the important thing is that Democrats think that Perjury is a serious crime again. Just a short time ago when a sitting President committed perjury about an actual crime, they did not think so. As usual what Liberals/Democrats say usually smells. But what they do not say usually stinks. All this is occupying the front pages of the press while the last UN report on the Oil-For-Food scandal gets released. It implicates many high level officials of Russia, France and England amongst others who were of course anti-war. We now learn for a fact that their reasons are that they were simply bribed and were pointing fingers at everyone else. Do not hold your breath for an apology. Just wait around for the spinmeisters.

Something Bigger? Maybe?

2005-10-19T19:29:00.000-07:00

I am not from the big doomsayers, but as they say there are no atheists in a foxhole. Just a short time ago a monster tsunami brought havoc and destruction to SE Asia. Then the US got Katrina & Rita. South America got Stan. A huge Earthquake destroys parts of Pakistan/India. And now Hurricane Wilma is barreling toward Florida. So you got to believe someone is telling us something. I do not what it is and I am sure that every looney with a cause will tell you about it. But like I said before, There are no atheists in a foxhole.

Catastrophe all over again.

2005-10-09T20:41:00.000-07:00

News is yet coming in of another natural disaster somewhere in the world. This time it is a huge earthquake in Pakistan / Afghanistan / India. This just after hurricane Stan slams Guatemala. And of course just after both Hurricane of Katrina and Rita hit the Gulf Coast. It kin of make me wonder.. Is there a higher meaning to all this? Or is nature just taking its course? Harshly, but its course nevertheless. After every catastrophic event, natural or man-made, we all feel bad and rush in to help. My big question is, how much is government responsible for the effects of these disasters. Buildings not built up to or brought up to code in known earthquake zones. Directly causing thousands of deaths when they inevitably come. Not only in this case but also a couple years ago in Bam, Iran when the city was built up on ruins of a previous earthquake. But you need not go so far. Right here in the United States, Many people are proposing to rebuild a major urban area in a known Hurricane and flood zone below sea-level. It make no sense. Why pour billions of dollars of national taxpayer money in a place that with time will inevitably be hit again. If they rebuild it, they must do it in a responsible way. i.e. Adding at least 10 feet to the land so it is no longer below sea-level. Since entire neighborhoods will be razed, this is not only possible, but it would be ludicrous not to. We all know that initially sentiments rule over logic. But with a little time, and it has already started, logic and reason will prevail. The Gulf Coast in general , and New Orleans , Louisiana in particular will rise again better than ever, Just not with the exact same geographic topography.

P.S. Watch out in giving too much money unguarded to politicians. Especially in Louisiana. Their corruption in legendary.

Harriet Miers for Supreme Court??

2005-10-09T20:35:00.000-07:00

I do not get the reason for appointing her to the Supreme Court, especially after such a brilliant nominee in John Roberts. It will remain to be seen if she can get confirmed. Although, I know some people are afraid of her Christianity. I think that religion I good. Unfortunately, you usually can judge a nominee by who steps up to support and who steps up to oppose. That is how I knew long before the hearings, that John Roberts would be fantastic. In this case, I am scarily observing, Harry Reid (D, NV) and many other Dems, all but endorse her. This cannot be a good thing. We will have to wait for the hearings though to get a better idea.

Irresponsible

2005-09-24T17:52:00.000-07:00

I know that FEMA is already congratulating themselves for a job well done, but the truth is exactly the opposite. While Galveston and other coastal and low-lying had mandatory evacuations, encouraging mass evacuation out of Houston without organization was irresponsible. People were stuck on the roads for hours. No food . No gas. No air conditioning if you run out of gas. While Rita could have been fierce, in Houston they may have had fallen trees with loss of power, but no pictures of people standing on rooftops. The anchors on the radio were essentially saying that if you did not leave you were dead. No wonder they fled. But irresponsible nevertheless.

Here we go again..

2005-09-21T12:28:00.000-07:00

Texas is now about to bear the brunt of the new storm "Rita". Due to the heightened awareness of all involved, every one is approaching panic mode. While we can still hope that this storm turns away since it still has a couple days, chances are that it hits. In any case, this is not New Orleans. Clearly a big hurricane causes damage, but the biggest issue with New Orleans was that it is 8 ft below sea-level. This caused all the widespread flooding that filled the city up like a bathtub. Texas has seen many hurricanes over the years, and hopefully are much better prepared to deal with the damage and the aftermath. Drudgereport is showing mass evacuations, but that is probably an overreaction. So sit tight. Be smart. And everything will be OK. May G-d bless the great State of Texas and may G-d bless America.

Katrina's Blame Game

2005-09-12T16:54:00.000-07:00

Over the last couple weeks since Katrina hit, there has been many terrible images on TV and a basic observation than government messed this up. Big. But who? Local ? State ? Federal? Newsweek has a shameless article (should be titled editorial) "Bush Blew It." while implying that it was on purpose and racially motivated., Drudgereport reports that CNN instructed their anchors to be outraged. Once again the bias is shameless and blatant.

Let us understand that First responders must be local. The federal government cannot be in every municipality. The Mayor of New Orleans Ray Nagin supposedly had an evacuation plan after running a mock simulation of a disaster. 1 YEAR AGO. Can you guess what kind of disaster simulation they ran? A CATEGORY 3 HURRICANE.

FACT: New Orleans Mayor never put his own evacuation plan in place. For him to blame others and use the race card is disgusting.

The Governor of Louisiana Blanco only issued a mandatory evacuation call after President personally intervened. Then when it was apparent that the rescue and recovery effort was not going well she refused President Bush's request to federalize the effort. She is the only one with authority to request federal help by law. SHE DID NOT DO IT. President Bush had already declared the area a disaster before the hurricane even hit. All she had to do is ask.

FACT: the Governor of Louisiana failed her state. For her to blame others is once again shameful.

Mississippi was devastated just like Louisiana. You did not see looting and lawlessness. Maybe it was because Gov. Haley Barbour had control from the first minute. The implication from Newsweek that the help was slow because of race is truly disgusting and hopefully will be repudiated by the American people. The biggest Racists that I have seen are the people that purposely use the minority populations in poverty so that they might benefit politically. Usually, their own kind.

Louisiana is corrupt at every political level. It is legendary. There have been numerous indictments. All Americans should be scared of the $62 billion dollars (and growing ) flowing into their hands. While we are now in a politically sensitive time there should be oversight on all these funds. But right now they are salivating at the biggest payoff of their lifetime.

Roberts for Chief Justice

2005-09-05T17:51:00.000-07:00

Chief Justice Rehnquist dies over the weekend just as President Bush is trying to get a handle on the Katrina disaster and begin confirmation hearings for Roberts to replace Associate Justice Sandra Day O'Connor. Talk about timing. Rehnquist leaves quite a legacy and huge shoes to fill. President Bush then names Roberts for Chief Justice. Probably to avoid needless bruising additional confirmation battles in light of all that is going on. He feels he has got a winner. Might as well run with it. I do see Ann Coulter's point that at a time like this, Bush ought to go with a sure deal (conservative wise). The stakes are higher now that he has been nominated for Chief Justice. At this point all we can do is hope for the best. All I can say, by judging the reaction of the usual liberal suspects. He should be fantastic.

Soon President Bush will have to nominate someone to be an Associate Justice. He will be under tremendous pressure to pick a minority or a women. Maybe a minority women. Again, for the most part, President Bush has shown moral clarity. He will surely pick a nominee that will shape this country in a positive fashion. The litmus test to know if he got the right guy is how loud the usual suspects howl.

Katrina's Conventional Wisdom

2005-09-03T21:54:00.000-07:00

Since this is on everyone's mind I figured I weigh in with my opinion.

President George Bush--- <--->

Doesn't matter that it is not his fault and he admitted response not enough. It's his country and it looks horrible

Governor of LA Kathleen Blanco--- 2 thumbs down

She is whining about the state of her state but she never even initiated her own evacuation plan and blame others

Mayor of New Orleans Ray Nagin--- 2 thumbs down

See above and to make it worse playing the race card

Governor of MS Haley Barbour --- 2 thumbs up

The only guy to seem in control of the situation

RFK Jr and Sidney Blumenthal --- 2 thumbs down

In the name of all liberals they begin to make up stories before the storm even finished

The City Of Houston (in the name of all the others)---- 2 thumbs up

As many other cities in the area welcomes and tries to help as many as they can, even though it is a huge strain on the local population

Governor of TX Rick Perry--- 2 thumb up

For arranging most of the above

FEMA --- 2 thumbs down

obviously unprepared both for before and after

Charities --- 2 thumbs up

as usual they come to the rescue, not only the Red Cross but many others. Hopefully they won't abuse the situation as in the past to raise money for themselves.

Politicians at every level --- 2 thumbs down

with exceptions noted above most simply try to use anything to support their own corrupt agendas. ( which is the reason why the city of New Orleans was not protected better in the first place)

Media-- 2 thumbs down

As usual, the stories they show are the stories that look to advance the liberal agenda (i.e. hate Bush)

If any of you have any additional thoughts on the matter I would be happy to hear from you.

Katrina's Wrath

2005-09-01T19:46:00.000-07:00

While RFK Jr. And Sidney Blumenthal are using this tragedy to lob some blatant partisan attacks on our President, New Orleans and the entire coastlines of Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama are destroyed. Complete devastation. People starving. People dying. Dead bodies floating in the water. Reports are coming in of extreme looting, fires, gunshots, and even rapes. Total lawlessness. Louisiana does have a reputation, but this is shameful for all Americans.

It is clear to me that they were unprepared for this level of disaster. It is also true that many people have been warning of this for decades. Do not believe the partisan finger pointing. It make no sense and/or has nothing to do with science. i.e. Money for levees (the levee that broke was brand new and one of the places that DID get money) or global warming. (the hurricanes in the last 10 decades have been less often and less severe). The part that is mind numbing is if they knew this to be a possibility, how come they did not have a 100% evacuation plan in place? At the very least, how come they did not have adequate food and shelter for the old and infirm?

I am too young to remember but I understand in the old days they used to have nuclear drills in schools. There are "shelters" in many of the older cities. In the Midwest, they have tornado drills in all cities on a regular basis. This was a real threat. It was identified as one of the most likely US disasters together with another New York terrorist attack. They were unprepared.

Where is Rudy Giuliani when we need him? There is a lack of leadership and coordination in Louisiana. It is taking them too long to get this situation under control. At least in Mississippi the governor is out there handling this. The Louisiana governor has thrown her hands in the air and has basically given up.

As in every crisis the best and worst of humanity shows its face. While the TV sets are showing you the chaos, unbelievable kindness by utter strangers in the entire southeastern United States are helping and taking in the refugees. For this we must all be thankful and put some hope in our citizenry. You can help by donating to Chabad at the Texas Medical Center for current evacuees or to Chabad of New Orleans for future rebuilding.

May G-D bless all the victims of this tragedy and may G-D bless the USA

In Katrina's Deadly Path

2005-08-31T19:13:00.000-07:00

As we all are watching the devastation left behind by Katrina. Our thoughts and wishes are with all the people that were affected by this.

We saw amazing outpouring of help toward disasters around the world, both in manpower assistance and financial assistance.( Kira Zalan has a great post on her blog regarding this.) At the very least we should do the same for our own countrymen.

They are now saying that it is possible of 30000 deaths from this. What were these people thinking when they were told to evacuate from a category 5 hurricane? As it turns out it was a category 3. Just imagine how much worse it could have been.

In any case, I know some people directly helping evacuees from New Orleans in Houston by housing and feeding them and people that will need help rebuilding when they can. Please be generous. Give to Chabad at the Texas Medical Center or Chabad of Texas and Chabad of New Orleans. Every little bit helps.

Even Before The Bodies Are (Un)Buried

2005-08-26T08:31:00.000-07:00

While the world congratulates Israel's expulsion of its citizens, terrorists have already begun shooting missiles from the Gaza into Israeli cities. In addition, they have begun to keep their word to continue terrorism. Palestinian terrorists have killed a young student and stabbed two others. In Jerusalem. Stabbed a guard in Hevron. And lobbed missiles from Lebanon into northern Israel. All this while Israel is trying to show they are the moral authority of the world. They have not even finished destroying the homes and are getting ready to move the cemeteries. Shameful. Disgusting. But probably most of all , Stupid.

Chavez

2005-08-25T06:40:00.000-07:00

Clearly Venezuela's President Chavez is a strongarm dictator. It doesn't matter how many times Jimmy Carter says otherwise. It is equally as clear to me that Pat Robertson was out of line and irresponsible. He gave Chavez an excuse to rally his citizens around him when they should be throwing him out. If nothing else, at least there are some more people paying attention to a part of the world that needs it. Considering the fact that instability in South America will affect the US immediately.

Rise from the dust..( Hopefully)

2005-08-24T10:50:00.000-07:00

I saw a excerpts from a speech from Moshe Feiglin on Arutz Sheva. He has a future in Israeli politics if they don't outlaw him first. As they do to anyone who threatens their corruption.

Feiglin: Circumstances Are Ripe For New Jewish Leadership
Aug 24, '05 / 19 Av 5765
By Ezra HaLevi

Likud leadership contender Moshe Feiglin, while apologizing for misjudging the ability to prevent Disengagement via non-violence, believes the time is ripe for the rise of a "faithful" leadership.

Feiglin addressed a group of activists at the David Citadel hotel in Jerusalem Wednesday, after his forced removal from the seaside Gush Katif community of Shirat HaYam along with the rest of the Jews living in Gaza.

The optimistic proponent of coordinated political and extra-parliamentary activism told those assembled a story that he had recounted over the public address system in Shirat HaYam as thousands of police and soldiers surrounded the small beach community.

"A member of the border police came to a Rabbi Stavsky, who told me this story," Feiglin said. "The officer told the rabbi he wanted to learn more about Judaism and make peace with wrongs he had committed."

The border policeman had taken part in destroying the house of Avri Ran, one of the pioneers of the hilltop movement, who lives outside the Shomron community of Itamar and produces organic eggs sold throughout Israel. The border policeman's conscience was torturing him and he asked the rabbi how he could possibly repent for what he had done to Ran.

"The rabbi told him he must go to Avri personally and beg forgiveness," Feiglin said. "At first he would not forgive, but he came back and he asked him again and again and finally, as is required by Jewish law, he did.

"He came back to the rabbi and said, "He forgave me."

" 'That's not enough,' said the rabbi, 'you must go back and fix exactly what you did. You must go to this outpost and build the house again.'

"This fellow went back and worked for months and with his own ten fingers built a new house."

Feiglin said that after he finished telling the story over the Shirat HaYam loudspeaker, complete silence filled the area, which was crawling with forces already breaking into residents homes to forcibly remove them.

"I said [to the soldiers and officer], I want to ask you one favor- for yourselves. Write the names of those you are kicking out of their homes, and take a number from them at which you will be able to reach them - because there are so many of them that when you realize that you want to ask their forgiveness and rebuild their homes, you will hot have as easy a time tracking them down as this border policeman did.

"I looked outside and there was a lieutenant general outside the window - and he was crying like a baby."

Feiglin concedes that although many soldiers cried, there was far less refusal than was expected among IDF soldiers.

"We can no longer blame a German soldier, who was brainwashed from birth and who would have faced much worse than two weeks in jail for refusing orders," Feiglin said. "Our own hesder [yeshiva student] soldiers were told by rabbis to fulfill these orders."

Looking on the bright side, Feiglin pointed out that the phenomenon of military discipline will one day work to the advantage of the Land of Israel movement. "When we will be in charge and lead this nation, this exact same army - not exactly the same upper echelon, but these same soldiers - will run and build the Holy Temple when they receive the order."

In terms of other aspects of the struggle that went wrong, Feiglin said he had many accounts to settle with regard to the behavior of the Yesha Council and rabbis who told their students to obey orders, but that "from this point we must only look forward."

"We can expend a lot of energy right now looking backwards and settling accounts. There is a lot to say, and it should be said, but not by me, and not by Manhigut Yehudit, because right now we must focus on uniting all members of this Orange army that has formed and focus it on one single goal: Jewish leadership for the state of Israel."

"I made a mistake. I said before the Disengagement that there would be no Disengagement because we would not allow it. I was mistaken. I was mistaken because in a democracy you can use non-violence and win, but when there is not really democracy, it does not work. Against terrorism, you cannot win, unless you are willing to use terrorism."

"Yair Stern wrote a line: 'Either die or conquer the mountain.' Either they are going to destroy us - and it will not stop at the Green Line - or we must take the reigns and be the ones giving the orders to the generals. We are never going to shoot soldiers from rooftops and we are not going to kidnap the daughter of Aharon Barak - that is not what we are about."

According to Feiglin, the circumstances in Israel today have set the stage for the rise of real Jewish leadership to lead the Jewish State. "We have tremendous energies that have surfaced now," he said. "Our youth hiked through the fields to Gush Katif and into the valleys toward Sa-Nur - they are just not focused. We must grab the energies and focus them - but on what?"

"In two months there are going to be primaries in the Likud. G-d gives us exactly the time and circumstances needed... These are the same people that voted against the Disengagement plan despite the fact that polls showed they would vote for it. In the two weeks before the Likud referendum, the residents of Judea, Samaria and Gaza left their homes and visited the simple Likudniks, the nationalists. And when the faithful and the national people came together there was natural chemistry."

"It is going to be much harder to convince these people to vote for Feiglin instead of Netanyahu than it was to convince them that the Disengagement was wrong, but I believe it is possible. I am not certain we will win right now, but we can. It is possible. If we create a real Jewish and faithful alternative for leadership in Israel - it will send a shock through Israeli society. It will wipe the smile of the faces of the self-haters who think they have buried us in the sand of Gush Katif. They will pale at the sight of us rising like a phoenix from the sand of Gush Katif to the leadership of the State of Israel."

Click here to hear the complete speech on Israel National Radio

Shameful

2005-08-21T16:54:00.000-07:00

While I and any honest person am tormented at the horrible images of expulsion from Gaza, and unlike the people that supported and perpetrated this crime, I believe that I have a right to disagree. The fact the the Israelis suspended their own democracy in order not to allow its people a say, is shameful. Even though, they had already spoken in the form of over 80 Knesset seats belonging to party platforms opposing this crime.

What is more shameful? The government displaced 8500+ people. Men Women and Children, with nowhere to go. They made them homeless. They were unprepared for their own. While demonizing them in the media and turning these patriots into criminals, they threw them on the street. Not just those who were forced out, even those that willingly left. Any government that turn its back on its own, has no right to be in government. Let them hang their head in shame, and resign.

News Distortion

2005-08-18T19:52:00.000-07:00

I could not help but watch the tragic scenes from Israel, as the expulsion of all Jews from Gaza was shown live. Heartbreaking. Tragic. As I was listening to the talking heads give their "thoughts" and "opinions", As usual they were full of mis-truths and half-truths. They were ignorant of the history or maybe they purposely lied. They were ignorant of Jewish and Israeli sentiment, or maybe they purposely lied. If I had not seen the CNN logo for myself it might as well been Al-Jazeera. Giving commentary from an Arab and Arab apologists.

Clearly I disagree with the entire process. Unbelievably, Israel suspended its own democracy for the last year to make this happen. Those liberals and Jewish minority who supported this will come to regret this dangerous precedent. In addition, all they could offer up was that Israel made Painful concessions, (again, might I add) now it is time for Palestinians to reciprocate (again, even though they never have in the past).

This will be viewed in the history books as another ridiculous move by Israel in their false hope that Arabs of the region for the most part want anything less than the complete obliteration of Israel and all Jews in it.

Terror 1 Good Guys 0

2005-08-16T14:09:00.000-07:00

So while the world begins to see the tragic images of the expulsion of all Jews from Gaza, the terrorists are celebrating and planning their next move. Of course, all those people who claim to be for human rights and dignity are nowhere to be found. In their mind the ends justifies the means. In this case, remove 8000+ people from their homes where they lived for over 30 years and have their livelihood. Remove them from their normal homes and put them in caravans and other transient, refugee camps indefinitely. All this while no agreement has been made with the Palestinians terrorists except that they should not shoot during this retreat. What a victory. In fact, the leadership of the Palestinians and the leadership of Hamas have already said that this is the beginning of the expulsion of all Jews from all of Israel. Apparently, they are the only ones that are honest here and say the truth about what they are thinking. The question is what is everyone else thinking?

The first reports are coming in from the latest scandal at the UN. As usual, it turns out that according to Fox News, money that was supposed to be for humanitarian purposes are being used to advance the terrorists agenda. UN spokesmen in NY claim to know nothing of it but admit that that is wrong. This is after their offices are used for terror bases. Vehicles are being used for terror transport and the excuses roll in.

So as the world mourns their dead from various terrorists activity around the world and swear to go after them wherever they may be, they yawn as the first step to a new terrorist entity gets created in Gaza. Congratulations. Terror 1 Good Guys 0

All Pain, No Gain

2005-08-12T13:06:00.000-07:00

What does anyone have to gain from the Gaza expulsion , euphemistically called "disengagement".
Certainly, the Jewish residents gain nothing. They lose their homes and livelihoods. Some of them have been there for many years. The government promised to take care of them. Even those that took up the offer have already been moved from big beautiful villas to tiny mobile homes.
Certainly, any towns or villages inside the "Green line" within at least 50 kilometers do not gain anything. They have already and continue to be in direct reach of missiles that have recently been created in Gaza due to the absence and the lack of will of the Israeli defense Forces.
The Palestinian population, who have been used as the political tool of the Arab world for decades by corralling them in "refugee camps" do not gain anything. The radical terrorists among them only get stronger both in power and stature. With the IDF gone from their midst they can move more freely and import more arms by Land, Sea and Air. (which of course, the Israeli public will pay for by directly building airports and seaports for them)
So who gains? Hamas and Islamic Jihad? Yes. Corrupt Israeli politicians lining their pockets with aid money? Yes. Egypt, who uses this as a pretext to officially remilitirize the Sinai Peninsula? Yes. PM Sharon and his cronies who have financial stakes in casinos and other business ventures they propose to put in Gaza? Yes. All terrorists around the world who view this as the proof that terrorism works? Yes.
If I did not see the news flow with my own eyes, I would think this is just a bad dream. Not in the post 9/11 era of the Bush doctrine. None of it makes sense. Where are the "Human rights" activists protesting the treatment of the elderly and little children in all this? Why is it necessary for this region to be Judenrein? Who Gains? Whose pain? And why?

Taking the high road

2005-08-10T08:13:00.000-07:00

I am not sure the wisdom of this except that every time Republicans or Conservative fight back they are called "bullies". CNN has apparently agreed to show an ad from NARAL that completely mischaractarizes the truth both in words and in image in regards to the nomination of Judge Roberts for the Supreme Court. We have all come to expect this. MoveOn.org have printed on their website how Republicans have passed laws taking away their property. Never mind that all the liberal Judges gave that opinion in the recent decision. Do not mix us up with the facts. They were just listening to the head of the DNC Howard "the scream" Dean who loves to repeat this and other lies on a regular basis. What is wrong? Is it true that the "Masses are asses"? I do not believe that. Americans are gullible though, and believe what they see on TV and in ads for the most part. Therefore Conservatives and Republicans need to do a better job of exposing these lies and getting out their message.

Democracy and the Middle East

2005-08-09T20:32:00.000-07:00

Tricky topic. While the Bush doctrine calls for spreading democracy around the world, I still do not get why Israel is always the exception. Good. And Bad. While it is true that Israel looks most like a democracy in the Middle East. It is far from it. When is it OK to act like a dictatorship? When the ends supposedly justifies the means. Of course the obvious question is "who's means?" and "what ends?". Israel's? America's? The Arabs? The corrupt politicians?. Currently while most Israelis do NOT support this expulsion of all Jews from Gaza, Certainly a landslide of the Jewish residents of Israel do NOT support the expulsion. ( do not believe what you read, find some reliable polling data) This is the reason Sharon did not allow a vote. To add salt to a wound, the brave patriots who live there and all over Israel are demonized and made to be criminals. For what? So Sharon can have a legacy. How many people will die because of this failed policy? Both Jews and Non- Jews alike? How long will it take for the politicians to realize the grave and fatal error of their ways? A week? A month? Just like all of their other failed policies. Withdrawal from Sinai. All the way to the Oslo war. They will say it was a grave error , but now to rectify it they need to make another error. Heaven help us all.

News , News , News

2005-07-30T21:56:00.000-07:00

I have been busy for a little while ,but have not missed out on all the news. Roberts for supreme court. New terrorism in London. And of course, Israel's pending expulsion of its own people, and much more. What is amazing about all of it is that it is done in the name of and to promote democracy. That is the Bush doctrine . That is what makes this country great. Why is it that America is pushing a dictatorship in Israel and in the same hypocritical breath discussing democracy. Most of Israel's citizens do NOT agree with the expulsion. Yet, they allow no vote on this important issue and allow no protest. They threaten any leader with jail if they speak out against . They have held elderly women and children in jails for weeks. Who would have thought this to be the case. Where are all the "human rights" and "civil rights" activists. Nowhere. It is hard to believe, but true. All this while Palestinian terrorists still maim and kill as many Israelis as possible with no letup. What country in the world would behave this way? America and France this week advocated arming the Palestinians with guns and bullets. This while the latest casualties of the terrorists, perpetrated by a member of the "Palestinian police force" , a young couple from Jerusalem, are not even buried a week. The PA TV station called the killers "martyrs". Why do the Israelis do this? Corruption? Money? Power? All combined. Nothing short of a miracle will stop this terrible action. Let us all pray that they come to their senses before this and the continued bloodshed will stop.

Karl Rove #2

2005-07-11T20:11:00.000-07:00

Some people never learn their lesson. When this whole reporter/source fiasco started, the liberal press (New York Times & Co.) were willing to forego all journalistic norms in order to fry Robert Novak (as much as I dislike him). When they realized that they had opened a Pandoras box when some other reporters began to get questioned, they immediatedly got their morals back. Well now, they think they can get revenge on Karl Rove. According to Drudgereport tomorrow's Times will ask for his resignation in this matter. Why? They don't know. But it makes for good politics. And once again shows the blatant bias of the above mentioned rag. As time goes on, I have come to realize that Rove is a pretty bright fellow. I hope he makes them pay big time.

Terrorism

2005-07-07T07:10:00.000-07:00

As the news comes flowing in from London from the today's latest terrorist attacks, we can only wish well to all the injured and condolences to families of the dead. May I note that "condemnations" are slow. We can also hope the the British reaction will be quite different than Spain's. They should understand that these people cannot be negotiated with nor appeased. They need to be fought with ever more strength and vigilance. I also note that unlike the terrorists in Israel, nobody is referring to these terrorists as "militants". Nobody should infer a difference. These are the same terrorists. Supported by the same regimes.

Circumcision

2005-07-06T11:16:00.000-07:00

According to an article yesterday in the Wall Street Journal, studies in Africa show that circumcision reduces the chances of contracting HIV by up to 70%. AIDS activists have always maintained that if they found a way to reduce that chances by even 30% it would be a success. The study results were so astounding that they halted it early because they felt it immoral not to circumcise the rest of the group. What is the problem? The study is mysteriously not getting released. I am sure that the ideological AIDS activists are clamoring for the results, but of course, most funders and organizers of these type of studies have other political motivations. In this case they have been Anti-Circumcision. Calling it barbaric and outdated in their lightly shielded attack on religion. Pushing forward with a movement to ban it worldwide. Starting in various European countries and recently in New York City. So now what do they do? Support it? If only they can figure out how to make money off of the foreskins. (to pay off the local politicians amongst others) With time, they will come to their senses and realize that if they can be hypocritical on every other issue then they can clearly do it when lives can be saved.

Great post from Israpundit.com

2005-06-26T17:05:00.000-07:00

Cowards, Useful Idiots, or Traitors?

by Prof. Paul Eidelberg

Last week, Caroline Glick, the Jerusalem Post’s most penetrating and persistent critic of Ariel Sharon and his retreat from Gaza plan, headlined her article “A COWARD FOR PRIME MINISTER”!
What applies to Mr. Sharon surely applies to his cabinet ministers as well as to most members the Knesset, which, after all, voted in favor of Israel’s retreat from Gaza.
However, inasmuch as Mr. Sharon campaigned against that left-wing policy in the January 2003 Knesset election, and further, since the parties that opposed retreat from Gaza won 84 (or 70%) of the Knesset’s 120 seats in that election, the term “coward” does not adequately describe the character of Ariel Sharon, his cabinet ministers, and the Jewish MKs that voted for his retreat plan (known officially by such euphemisms as “evacuation” or “disengagement”).
Given this state of affairs, how shall we characterize Israel’s ruling elites? It seems they have learned nothing from the Oslo debacle, that is, from 12 years of terrorist attacks resulting in 10,000 Jewish casualties. Despite this record of Arab violence and villainy, Israel’s ruling elites are now anxious to expel Gaza’s 8,500 Jewish residents and give this land, as well as other parts of Eretz Israel, to the implacable enemies of the Jewish people.
Continue reading Cowards, Useful Idiots, or Traitors?

Billy Graham

2005-06-26T16:38:00.000-07:00

I do not know much about this man, but today he gave a sermon in front of an estimated 80,000 people in Queens, New york. (Probably exaggerated) In any case, in attendance was former President Bill Clinton and his wife Senator (and probable presidential candidate) Hillary Clinton (D), New York. Bill says that he has respected Graham since he refused to speak to a segregated audience some decades ago in Arkansas. I thought I would just comment here that the president's political party (the Democrats) are the ones that refused every civil rights act ever enacted, especially in those days. In fact they fought them. If he had any respect for anti-segregation he would have never been a Democrat. Hope they do not ask him to repeat this under oath.

Karl Rove

2005-06-26T16:33:00.000-07:00

This man must be a genius. As the Democrats have been running away from the term "liberal" knowing the negative connotation it has with the public, Rove says Liberals are weak. Democrats go nuts. So here is the question. Are they ? Or aren't they? He never accused the Democrats. (though he should have) By the way they are going nuts it is clear to me that they are guilty as charged.

If it looks like a duck....

2005-06-23T19:08:00.000-07:00

While some weeks ago there was some sort of agreement on filibusters for judges, apparently someone forgot to ask about the rest of the President's nominees. Mr. Bolton is the right man for the right job in the corrupt UN at the right time. But the Democrats are only interested in attacks and obstruction. This is the man who drew accolades from all Americans after spearheading the removal of "Zionism is racism" from the very same anti-Semitic institution called the UN

First Durbin, A Democrat from Illinois attacks our troops then hidden away at a staged event discussing the war yesterday in front of Nadler, Democrat of New York, Conyers Democrat of Michigan, Frank , Democrat of Massachusetts, and others a panel says the war in Iraq is so that Israel and America can dominate. No objection at the time. C-Span carried it live. Only the next day when they realize the potential fallout, they run to object. Shameful People . Shameful Party. And then the chutzpah for attacking Karl Rove for calling them weak. They are weak

Ann Coulter

2005-06-19T13:00:00.000-07:00

I am reading Ann Coulter's book "How to speak to a liberal, If you must.". And while I was disappointed that it was only a collection of her columns. Some published and some not. It is truly witty. To the point. And readable. Too bad she does not have wider exposure up against the usual suspects of obfuscation and confusion. It takes talent to have the thoughts and then articulate them well in words. Way to go.

Lies and Deception

2005-06-11T21:31:00.000-07:00

As time passes and we get closer to the expelling of 10000 Jews from their homes the supposed democracy in Israel continues to try to get support by multitudes of lies and deception. Every day I read how their press continues to vilify the settlers wherever they may be. Attention grabbing headlines such as assassinations by them are commonplace. One problem. No proof of anything. Arrests are threatened and carried out to anyone that publicly denounces the government. And while 400 Palestinian terrorists are let out of prison for 'goodwill', these democratic protesters take their place. Many of them children under the age of 17. Thankfully, the public is noticing. Support for this 'expelling' id under 50%. And considering that many polled are Arabs, It is likely that 80% or more of the Jewish population is against it. The whole thing is shameful. May G-D protect us all from these evil plans.

Makes for a good read.

2005-06-01T11:23:00.000-07:00

I have been reading "A Treasury of Deception Liars, Misleaders, Hoodwinkers, and the Extraordinary True Stories of History's Greatest Hoaxes, Fakes and Frauds" by Michael Farquhar. Published by Penguin. 320 pages.

It is a compilation of a lot of short stories. Makes for a good read. The amazing part is, that whether you are talking about politics, or culture. Financial fraud or simply for the fun of it. There has been and will be continue to always be forgeries and frauds. People are always willing to believe what they want to believe. Usually meant to separate man from his money. Although in many instances, there were extremely bloody consequences. Of course, these cases were usually the worst. Perpetrated by dictators from Hitler, Stalin and Saddam Hussein to currently, KIM Chong-Il and Castro. Nevertheless, Liberals and democrats alike continue to support these repressive regimes and would rather believe how nice and kind they are, than to believe the President of the United states. When will we learn?

Is It Just Me?

2005-05-27T07:53:00.000-07:00

I feel like all the news is coming in with weird noises and distorted sounds. Israel is attacked by its Arab neighbors time and time again, but Israel is to blame? These enemies have never stopped calling for the complete obliteration of Israel and all its Jews. For that matter all Jews everywhere. So what do you get, apologists. Palestinian terrorists kill men, women, children & infants indiscriminately. What do you get? At best justification. Usually support, both emotionally and financially. Israel builds a fence to keep homicide bombers out. Keep them from killing hundreds on innocents civilians. Jews and Non-Jews. What do you get? Complaints about convenience of movements. Apparently more important that human life. I don't get it. The supposed "peace agreements" that Israel has with Egypt & Jordan. Cold to say the least. And recently President Bush says he will give direct aid to Abbas of $50,000,000. Taxpayer money. Abbas says it is a modest beginning. He apparently wants to be able to steal much more of the American taxpayer money than his predecessors. He has a lot to catch up on.

So are we all just fools to fall for all this? Are maybe, secretly in our hearts we know the truth. If they are Jews, kill them. If someone out there can enlighten me, I would be thrilled to hear from you.

I'll take the alternative

2005-05-25T07:57:00.000-07:00

Since the birth of the country called Israel, Its existence has been threatened. By all sorts of threats, internal and external. (to be discussed at future date.) As a direct result of this, the Israeli public has been and continues to be security conscience at all times. In their democratic elections, they have consistently voted in candidates that have campaigned on a platform that amongst other things has high on its priority, security. The only reason that there are left wing parties in government is because of the non-Jews that live in this Jewish country. When you look at every recent election. Even while the media is calling them evenly split, over 80% of the Jewish population votes for the more conservative candidate. So the unbelievable event is that as soon as these candidates get into office they immediately turn left. Against the will of the people that voted them in. This is true recently with Sharon. This is also true with Barak, Netanyahu, Rabin and any other candidate voted in. (Peres never won an election in Israel. Ever) Why is this a democracy? Why does the world not respect the will of the public? While these "leaders" call themselves the de facto leaders of the Jewish people, they act in direct opposite of their will. In what democratic country does "administrative detention" ,in other words, citizens held indefinitely without a indictment, in fact in most cases without a charge or an explanation? In what democracy do the leadership spend all their time in direct opposite to their citizenry? This is the epitome of arrogance. They think that even though they were voted in on one platform, they could do what they want because they know better. This is optimistic, since it is also possible that it is due to extreme corruption. (like Peres's many business partnerships like the Palestinian Electric company with Arafat.)

I do not remember where, but I read a quote several years ago that comes to mind. "The most amazing thing about the 20th century was that after thousands of years if persecution, Jews have a land of their own. The only thing more amazing is that after a short 50-60 years they are sick of it"

Militants or Terrorists.

2005-05-18T20:18:00.000-07:00

Who came up with the word militant, as to not to offend a terrorist. We read every day how the "militants that blew up the school in Beslan" or "the Palestinian militants shot and killed a mom and her two children while in bed" and numerous examples like these. These are not militants. These are terrorists. Plain and simple. It does not matter how morally corrupt the Europeans are to support this. They have a long history of supporting terrorists. I would say it is politically correct, but this is not true. Politically correct would be to call a terrorist a terrorist. So why all the apologists. Even for the "militants who crashed planes in the world trade center". Just loony liberalism.

So many big stories

2005-05-16T19:41:00.000-07:00

So what is more important, the fact that Newsweek messed up big time and people are dying ?

Evidence emerging (old news) that Russian officials were on the take in the growing oil-for-food scandal.? Maybe Annan knew as well. ( duh.)

Or maybe it is the Iranian nuclear weapons that are in development. Predictably, Kofi Annan warns not to go the security council? (why not? ) .

So as the news continues to evolve and emerge, the usual hypocrites will have soundbites. Words do kill. But Newsweek will continue to blame US policy for dead people over there. Never mind, that their irresponsible story directly caused the recent strife. And while Annan, the Russians, French and Germans continue to defend their anti-war stance as the emerging facts that come out. They were all the the direct Iraqi payroll to influence them. So sad. So predictable. There has to be a positive spin to all this. I would like to believe that more people will start opening their eyes to what is happening around them. Let us all hope for the best.

Must See Site/ Blog

2005-05-09T18:37:00.000-07:00

In this unprecedented time, when Jews are evicting Jews from their homes. While all the usual enemies are laughing. We all need to look into and understand a little more about what this is all about. Check out http://www.israelreporter.com .

Hypocrites

2005-05-05T20:47:00.000-07:00

Liberals out there are always preaching free speech, tolerance & inclusiveness. So why is it that I have never met a liberal who;

Is tolerant of others?
Allows someone else to speak?
Will welcome others?

Upside Down

2005-04-27T16:45:00.000-07:00

Robert Novak wrote a syndicated column last week lamenting Israel's security wall and it's interference with the Christian population on the "wrong" side of the fence. Adding that more Christians ought to be upset about it. He could not have twisted this issue worse. As usual, he simply found another opportunity to be Anti-Israel and Anti-Semitic. Fortunately, there are many Christians around the world that understand that inconvenience to some, is better than 1000's of dead people. Jews and otherwise. I think that he should have written an article how come more Christians are not protesting the terrorists that have taken and continue to take innocent lives. Men . Women . Children. Infants. Even fetuses. How ironic while lamenting this wall against the Israelis, all he is saying between the lines is how could the Israelis have put some people on the terrorist side of the fence. Apparently, by their support of them, that is where they would like to be.

While we are on the topic of missed opportunities. The ink is still fresh from the passing of Pope John Paul II and the installing of Pope Benedict the XVI. Jews and others everywhere were quick to point out how much the former got along with Jews. Even to visit the western wall and ask for forgiveness for centuries of atrocities. While this was going on an atrocity was and still is taking place in Israel. Palestinian terrorists, supported by various other countries are killing and maiming thousands of innocents. Instead of taking a public stand against the terrorists, there was and still is ambiguity and wiffle waffle to the point that it was almost supported. This was a colossal mistake and missed opportunity for moral justice. Those that publicly declare their intent to kill men women and children should publicly be admonished by all who give a damn. Hopefully the latter will not make the same mistake.

Jim Jeffords of VT

2005-04-20T09:29:00.000-07:00

News Flash..News Flash

Jeffords the ex-Republican Independent says he would not run for reelection . Duh. Everyone knows they when he originally ran for election as a Democrat and then changed after the election, it was both treacherous and traitorous. Skip all the excuses. He knows that the voters have not forgotten and he will always be viewed as a slimy politician. The reason he won't run, (in a sudden about face) he knows he will lose. Whether he runs as a Democrat, Republican or Independent.

I still think that although national politicians should always be able to vote on any issue the way they want (hopefully properly representing their constituencies and/or moral conscience) there should be a rule against changing parties between elections. Especially on a national level. People do not only vote for individuals but in most cases they also vote for a political party. To change parties after an election is denying the right of all the voters. Should not be allowed.

Gridlock.

2005-04-16T20:55:00.000-07:00

It seems that there are several Washington issues on the table that are making a buzz.

A) Social Security
B) Estate Taxes
C) Federal judgeship and the use of filibusters.

On Social Security, I am still boggled by the fact that even though everyone knows there is a issue. Republican and Democrat. The Democrats refuse to come to the table to discuss the problem without preconditions. While they are upset about the republican ideas, once again they fail to have their own. This will cost them more in the next elections.

On estate taxes which are inherently unfair. The people who get hit the hardest are middle class business/homeowners. This is simply because, although they have made a living all their life, the business/property that they own obligates them to owe enormous sums in estate tax, of which they do not have. Either get rid of it. Or make the threshold a minimum of 10 million dollars. And then index the number to inflation. It seems there is already consensus in Washington for compromise. Get it done.

On judgeship and filibusters, the democrats have now taken this to a new level. But the republicans ought to be careful. They will not be in power forever. If they change the rules it may be used against them in the future. I have a better idea. Call their bluff. Make them filibuster and draw national attention to what they are hindering. Watch them back down.

Sandy Berger Whitewash

2005-04-01T12:06:00.000-08:00

Now he admits he took and destroyed classified documents from the archives. Originally, he said he 'accidentally' stuffed them in his pants. For this crime, Of which we may never know the full consequence of what was lost, he pays $10,000 fine and gets his security clearance removed. That's it. Sounds like another left-wing/liberal/democrat whitewash to me.

Terri Schiavo #2

2005-03-23T20:43:00.000-08:00

This story by itself is interesting mostly by the fact that everyone is talking about it. As if this has never taken place before this tragic case. Or it will not happen again after. Nevertheless, I do not think that the general public understands what is happening here. This women is NOT on life support as many in the media have said. Especially ABC, in their now infamous poll. She breaths on her own. She says some words. She is severely disabled. As a righteous society, we protect the disabled. We do not murder them. Has the liberal party finally crossed over into Nazi Germany? Where the disabled were murdered along with those Jews for being a nuisance to society? I believe if the public fully understood the tragic circumstances of this women, there would more outrage at what is going on.

Terri Schiavo

2005-03-18T13:04:00.000-08:00

What is the most interesting is the fact that the same people usually line up on every issue. Democrats and liberals love the right to abortion and the despicable act of murder known as partial-birth-abortion. The same crew are insisting to kill this woman in FL. No matter what anyone says. Only in the case when a crime as heinous as murder while committing a felony are they against the death penalty. So let me understand if I got it. Innocents have no rights. They die. Convicted criminals should not. I am confused.

Solidarity for Dead People

2005-03-18T06:28:00.000-08:00

There has been lots of reporting this week on the opening of the new Holocaust History Museum in Jerusalem. Attended by "world leaders". Representing the US, the mayor of NYC , Mike Bloomberg. The largest group of foreign dignitaries since Former PM Rabin's Funeral. What was not widely reported is what these dignitaries were doing there besides paying respects to 6000000 dead Jews. The UN Secretary General Kofi Annan was one that decided that while the world was watching what mass murderers are capable of. He decided to pay respects to the mass murderer of Jews in the common era. Yasser Arafat. He went to lay a wreath at his grave. He wants to make sure that everyone understands what he is thinking. Too bad there was not more reporting on the topic. I think most people would have got it.

Ironically, all this is taking place while another group of Jews went to Israel including lawmakers and judges. They went to express real solidarity with living Jews. The proposal is to expel thousands of families from their homes. Not by Arabs. By the "Jewish" Government. Places that these people were born. Grew up. Spent their life's work. Who would of thought that they also want to uproot graveyards? Who would have thought that the effort to make this area Judenrein would be Jews themselves. Shameful.

Kneejerk Reactions

2005-03-11T12:33:00.000-08:00

Tragedy today in the courthouse in Atlanta, GA. A defendant for rape grabbed a bailiff's gun and shot and killed four people including the judge and court reporter. He then escaped from the courthouse. Why didn't this gunmen get killed immediately from another bailiff or guard in the courthouse? Were they being overcautious? Every time someone in law enforcement kills a suspect, the immediate reaction is brutality. Especially if the suspects are black. Has this state of affairs made law enforcement overcautious to the point of danger ?

The Kneejerk reaction of the liberal world is to pass more laws to restrict more guns from law abiding citizens. This is great example where no laws help since the gun came from a law enforcement officer. That will not stop the chorus. As usual mantra is "Do not confuse me with the facts" Tragic day in Georgia. I hope they catch him soon and give him the death penalty he deserves.

In Spite Of Themselves

2005-03-04T11:41:00.000-08:00

As a follow up to the posting below about the Gates in Central Park, there was an unintended benefit. Business. It seems that so many people wanted to see this that they came and spent lots of tourist dollars. Horse & buggy rides, restaurants, hotels and the like. So in spite of the fact that Christo and Jean Claude only wanted it for themselves, (and their pockets) the benefit for the liberal NYC is ironic. If they would have known, they probably would never have allowed the commoner to make money. This was supposed to be an elitist exhibition from an elitist artist from an elitist mentality.

One more thing. Don't tell me they knew the economic benefit. If they would have known,
A) they would have insisted NYC pick up some or all of the cost.
B) This would have taken less than 25 years to convince NYC to allow it

International Consideration

2005-03-02T17:57:00.000-08:00

There was a opinion handed down by the US Supreme Court in a 5-4 decision to strike the death penalty for juveniles. This is a moral issue to be taken up at a future date. What is important to note however, amongst the different reasoning written by Justice Kennedy for the Majority opinion, all of which are interesting, the citing of international opinion and norms struck me as odd if not a dangerous precedent. I thought the last arbiter of US law was the US constitution. As the liberal justices on the court cite this, which part of the world are they worried about. Middle East? Where they cut your hand off for stealing? And approve of public beheadings? Or Singapore? Where you get lashes for chewing gum in public? Is it France? Where bias attacks are allowed, assault ,arson , as long as the Jews are the victims? Or maybe Cuba? Where dissidents rot forever in Jails.

The mere fact that this was cited as reasoning for US law is outrageous. It is a subtle challenge to out sovereignty. This should not be taken lightly nor let to pass without protest.

Autism

2005-02-24T09:38:00.000-08:00

It is always amazing to me when the media picks up on a topic. Seems out of the blue. This weeks Newsweek cover discusses Autism. CNBC and other television stations are doing programs discusses this serious issue. It seems like all of a sudden someone decided that this is a situation worth discussing and everyone follows along as the ratings come in. Hopefully these discussions can take place with fair and honest debate without politics. It is about time that a worthwhile topic was discussed. Question is, who had the epiphany?

Arrogance

2005-02-16T07:03:00.001-08:00

I am a firm believer that anyone has a right to spend their money in any legal way they like. Having said that, there is one of the the most enormous displays of arrogance ever taking place currently in Central Park in New York City. The home of the bleeding heart liberals. The Gates by Christo & Jeanne-Claude. A gross display of nothing for the sake of nothing. For the honor of nothing. Except the "artists" that made it. $25MM. When asked why they did it. The quote I saw was "for ourselves, if others like it too, so be it." It is more like the emperor's new clothes where nobody wants to admit the foolishness of the entire thing. And all stand oohing and aahing. Let me add the tremendous hypocrisy of those that wish to always tax working people the hardest and scream foul any time someone they do not like spends money lavishly on themselves. So far, I have not heard much opposition to this display of European style opulence. Maybe because most people in New York wish it was Paris.

Unions

2005-02-13T06:05:00.000-08:00

I do not know when Unions turned from a way to protect employees to a way to extort exorbitant sums from business and government alike. Then have the chutzpah to complain about it. There was a day when employees were treated to unsafe environments and wages that were non-livable. Today unions have bankrupted industry in the United States while complaining of jobs moving overseas. Look at Autos, Airlines, even sports. No NHL this season. It is hard for the American public to cry for people making that kind of money.

All this without the fact that Unions have been crooked forever. The leadership living the high life skimming off the top of all dues. Most blue collar workers have values very different then the public face of Unions.

The Teachers Union in New York suggested last week to raise taxes on all people making more than 100k to pay even more money to public schools. "They will not mind". Like the first $15B they have does any good. Out of Touch. Let me remind anyone out there that in New York, with two children, 100k is barely enough. After Fed Taxes, State Taxes, City Taxes, Sales Taxes, Property Taxes. And any other tax you can think of. There is a reason that businesses move out of the northeast, and of course the people follow.

Bottom line. The unions have outlived their usefulness. Shut them down.

PS Good for Walmart.

Required reading

2005-02-09T19:46:00.000-08:00

Preachers Of Hate
Islam and the War on America
by Kenneth R Timmerman

This will help everyone understand a little more about the Middle East. Islam. Israel. Jews. Americans.

Definitely required reading.

Deja Vu

2005-02-07T11:55:00.000-08:00

I try not to think about it too much, only because it makes my stomach turn. Israel is once again about to release 900 terrorists out of its prisons in a sign of goodwill. Goodwill. In addition, they are getting ready to turn over control of lots of territory to the Palestinian Police.(of which, might I add, that have been directly involved in many of the terrorist acts) Again, Goodwill. Goodwill. In exchange, The Israeli public gets goodwill. (we already know what the corrupt politicians get) Please explain to me what that means. To me it means more empty promises from corrupt politicians to stop committing terror. Except that the terrorists themselves make no such promises. They do not even pretend. Tangible land and strategically important locations turned over to terrorists in exchange for more promises and guarantees. US says "Israel needs to make tough decisions". I would say so. The decision they have to make is, will they put their populations in greater danger now then were yesterday.

So once again, politicians from around the world will be watching a sovereign country give up territory to terrorist in direct response to the terrorist activity. The greatest question of all is which other country would be crazy enough to do the same?

To lie or not to lie?

2005-02-04T13:45:00.000-08:00

Are there times when it is appropriate for the government to lie? For example, after the World Trade Center attacks, the air in the area was polluted beyond everyone's nightmare. The government denied it and did not tell anyone the real truth. They would have created a panic just in the time that there needed to be extra calm. Or how about the plane that went down over Belle Harbor? Do you really think that it was a malfunction? Of perhaps something else brought it down. But because of 9/11 it needed to be hushed to a) avoid a panic b)to not give the perpertrators a victory. You see if nobody says that it is what happened then the terrorists lose. Word in JFK airport is that shortly before the plane crash and shortly after 9/11 there was a man with a bomb pulled off a plane by security ,after closing its doors, before takeoff. The people on the ground were basically told that if word got out of the incident then air travel might shut down for good. And they might lose their jobs. I think that there are times when the government must prevent panic for the sake of society.

In the same vein, when AG Gonzales was getting grilled before his confirmation (congratulations , by the way) the senate committee also asked various 'experts' questions on torture. When asked by senator Arlen Spector (R-PA) about the ticking bomb scenario, the answer was "there are times when the President has to do things that are illegal and the prosecutors have to decide whether to prosecute, nevertheless torture should always be illegal". You follow that logic. Basically , depends on the balance of political power in Washington to know if you should do the right thing or not. That is ridiculous. In these cases the government needs to (and hopefully already does) do what it has to in order to get information to protect the public. Under any circumstances. Terrorist have no rules. They rely on ours to get away with their murder and mayhem. Time to fight them on their level.

Social Security

2005-02-02T17:04:00.000-08:00

This an old post that I copied to repost today considering the State of The Union Address from our President.

Social Security

In 1935 when the Social Security system as we know it was signed into law, life expectancy from birth was 58 for men and 62 for women. Less than 54% of men and 61% of women who reached 21 ever reached 65. Even if they did, life expectancy for men was less than 13 more years and women was less than 15. Today all these numbers are much higher. It almost seems like the system was set up only for the 'survivors of life' considering most didn't make it to collect the benefits or live that much longer even if they did. Today the system is clearly in trouble because there are not enough workers to fund the future obligations of the program. Mainly because the benefit collection date did not rise with life expectancy so the people that are still working need to fund more benefits.

I don't know what this all means. You figure it out.

Will the real Iraqis please stand up

2005-01-30T17:13:00.000-08:00

So it is heartening to see that despite the constant naysaying and whining, millions of Iraqis decided that democracy is a good thing. While the terrorists said Vote AND Die, the people decided it was better to vote because terrorists will make them die anyway. The question now is what will Ted Kennedy and the Democrats together with the French do when Iraq starts the first democracy amongst all Arab and most Muslim Countries? Will they continue to undermine? Will they start supporting it? My prediction for France is it depends on how much money they get. For the Ted Kennedy people, no hope.

But let us all give three cheers to the US Military on a job well done. To the Iraqi National Guardsmen that will protect the present and the future Democracy now evolving. To the brave candidates from all over who risks their very lives to run on a ballot. And last but very not least to the President of the United States and Commander-in-chief of the Armed forces, George W Bush for having the vision to see and the will to push through the fact that liberty and freedom are for all human beings.

Train Wreck

2005-01-27T16:57:00.000-08:00

So we live in this great country. We have unbelievable money to spend on everything from teaching our kids how to put on a condom in our schools to giving 100's of billions of dollars of foreign Aid. We have unbelievably smart people that can figure out how to cure and vaccinate once fatal illnesses and working on more. We can put man on the moon. (though unfortunately, sometimes cannot bring them back). Can we not figure out how to avoid a train wreck in CA. Should there not be a way to have sensors to detect obstructions on the track. How hard could it be? There are arms that block the tracks before a train comes there has to be a way to signal trains to stop well in advance if there is danger. I am not an engineer, but now there is at least 10 dead in CA and 100's injured. This is not the first time this has happened. Someone ought to be able to figure it out.

Are you ready for some football?

2005-01-23T20:58:00.000-08:00

So it will be the Eagles vs. the Patriots. The American tradition of watching the superbowl (or maybe just the commercials, or better yet, a halftime show :-)) just kidding. In any case hopefully we get through it with a great game and no controversy. Good luck to all.

Does not need explanations

2005-01-21T10:23:00.000-08:00

Some things, you have to see for yourself.

Speech heard around the world

2005-01-20T11:18:00.000-08:00

Fantastic address today at the inauguration. Notable that the President simply restated his commitment to liberty and freedom around the world. Against bigotry & hatred both at home and abroad. May be one of his best speeches ever.

May G-d bless the President & may G-d bless America.

Confirmations or soap box

2005-01-19T19:41:00.000-08:00

For all of you who saw the despicable questioning of Dr. Condaleeza Rice by Senator Barbara Boxer (D-CA), hopefully you are as disgusted as I am. It seems that Boxer is jealous of the fact that a minority woman from humble beginnings made it higher than she did in politics. And by golly, those are the exact people that democrats/liberals like to keep down. You see, once there is progress for minority communities than they don't vote for liberals anymore. I also wonder what would have happened if any of the men would have spoken that way. Even some of the others that disliked her spoke with more respect. And of course how can I miss the fact that out of 18 Senators on the panel the vote was 16-2 to pass the confirmation to the floor for a vote. Guess who the only other person to vote against her besides Boxer? That is right, the one and only John Kerry. The presidential loser. How befitting. But is it not beautiful that all this happens just as the inauguration takes place for George W Bush's 2nd term in office. Let us all wish him well. And G-d bless America.

And another thing.....

2005-01-14T09:30:00.000-08:00

Why is the issue talked about below not discussed in any national press that I have seen. Have not heard too much even on the radio. Well maybe it is just because this time the proof is solid that democrats stole an election.

What is the Problem?

2005-01-12T08:10:00.000-08:00

According to recent press reports in Seattle, the contested election for governor included all the usual shenanigans. Dead people. 'found' ballots' . And of course the best scam, more ballots in democratic party stronghold King County than voters. This is critical stuff. This is very important when the level of fraud is greater than the margin of victory in the election. How do the people in the state allow the swearing-in ceremony to take place for Christine Gregoire? Why is there no massive protest by the usual 'supporters of democracy'. Instead they attack Dino Rossi for pushing his case in the courts to simply expose the fraud. Maybe the democrats like Barbara Boxer (D-CA) and Hillary Clinton (D-NY) are too busy protesting 150,000 voter margins in Ohio to pay mind to a 129 fraudulent voter margin in Washington. Maybe someone forgot to tell them which Washington needs attention.

This is not the first election in recent history with questionable events. But it seems to be the clearest fraud that was large enough to change the outcome of a major election. I point to other questionable events, like the replacement of Torricelli with Frank Lautenberg on the ballot in NJ for Senate when the law was clear this was illegal. Or dead people on ballots in Missouri when Ashcroft lost that election. It is clear that as long as politics say so, the law means nothing to Democrats. Not surprising though.

All this aside, I do not understand how in the most technologically advanced country in the world, our voting system seems to be out of date. There should be a uniform nationwide automated system for voting. There should be some sort of ID process to vote. That is what we do to drive. To buy cigarettes. To get into most buildings in NYC. But not to vote. I understand that the problem in the system is how to maintain anonymity of the votes while still registering each person and the fact that they voted. ie a receipt. Maybe after someone checks in to vote the computer can take them off the list and then create a random ID number to issue receipts to confirm their vote.

Fixing these problems would help the election process in this country and would cut out most of the fraud that takes place. The more local the election, the more fraud there is. It is the unspoken open secret of every election board in this country.

OPEN UP YOUR EYES !!

2005-01-11T13:24:00.000-08:00

Duh.. 46 communities in the Negev will be exposed to the missiles from Gaza after the pullout. I don't even know what to say about this except that 1) Trust me, this is only the beginning of the fallout 2) I can not believe the communist government of Israel allowed Haaretz to print the article.

http://www.haaretzdaily.com/hasen/spages/525908.html

Predictions or 20/20 Hindsight?

2005-01-10T17:53:00.000-08:00

There was an article today in the WSJ that suggested there was a meteorologist in Thailand that was warning of a big tsunami several years ago. He was ridiculed and run out of his job. Now, of course, they wished they had listened.

This all got me thinking. No matter what takes place, especially catastrophic events, you will find someone out there who had predicted it. This happens most in the financial markets. Does that make them a hero? If they had logical and reasonable basis for the prediction in advance, they may have been able to get some following. Or maybe, like in the case above, alleged politics and money can get in the way of common sense.

so is it a prediction or 20/20 hindsight?

Strange Bedfellows

2005-01-05T17:49:00.000-08:00

I am talking about myself and the MK from the Shinui party in Israel Tommy Lapid. Commenting on the fact that the United Torah Judaism (UTJ) party joined in with traitorous Sharon government on the instruction from their Rav , Rabbi Eliyashiv, he said "of course he would find a Halacha to let him join for 290MM Shekel". He is right. You see we probably agree on a lot of issues, but unfortunately, for completely different reasons. He hates religion. He hates religious people. He hates the Torah. It is in times of these that these so called chareidi (orthodox) parts of the Israeli society lose any respect in the society at large. They have no principals. They claim to believe in something, but of course this can be overridden by payment of a few shekels. It has been this way for a long time. No scruples at all. Shame on them. Whores. People who sell their very lives for money. Ehud Barak, when he was PM, publicly humiliated the other "big rav" Ovadiah Yosef by promising and then withdrawing huge sums of money and Ovadiah Yosef promising to support the then-failed peace because of "halachah' and them withdrew. All in a matter of days.

Now Lapid will do anything to secularize the entire land of Israel. Which is of course an oxymoron. If you do not believe in the bible or the biblical right to be there, then you are truly immoral and the enemies of Israel are right. Just occupiers. Not of Hebron or Bethlehem, West Bank, Gaza or Golan Heights but Tel Aviv, Haifa, Jerusalem (all of it) and can you believe it, even Herziliya.

All this is going on when the 'moderate' Abbas is calling Israel the enemy. Mortars and anti-tank shells are raining on Israeli villages, not only in Gaza but in the cities that neighbor it. The Israeli army is fighting with the Jewish people that risk their lives to protect the land instead of protecting the people if the land by wiping out the terrorist. Traitorous.

Some things will never change.

2005-01-04T11:29:00.000-08:00

It seems that liberals that are hell-bent on destroying a country will do anything, does not matter how shameless or obvious. Not talking about United States but about Israel. Apparently Dichter, who is Mossad chief gave a report to the Knesset. Did not see it though, amazingly enough the Left wing Haaretz reported that he said "right wing Jewish extremist's are creating a pretext for violence" in the upcoming 'disengagement' plan. Debka reported that he said for the first time that "the 'disengagement' plan will create a little Lebanon in what is currently Gaza and a Gaza in what is now the Northern West Bank". This was in reference to the terrorist stronghold and emerging violence against Israelis. Of course you understand why Haaretz did not report the latter even though it was apparently in the same report. Towing the government line of not telling the whole story. Which is the reason they will not allow a public vote on the topic. They may not have a choice if the current government fails.

While we are on this topic. It has been widely reported around the world (though not as much in practically communist Israel) that the 'moderate' Abbas AKA Abu Mazen has been canoodling with known and avowed terrorists. Said that supposed Palestinian 'refugees' will go to Israel and will only move in Arafat's legacy. In response America is thinking about $200MM more of direct aid to bolster him . Go figure. At the same moment that all levels of Israeli politicians call his statements unacceptable and irresponsible they continue to support him.

At the same time various Israeli parts of society are DEMOCRATICALLY opposing the current policies by protest and trying to encourage awareness and debate. They are threatened with prosecution and jail time. Many have already been jailed. Some without any charges.

So, while the Israeli gov't is trying hardest to create another enemy Islamist state in its backyard the people who believe in the Bible are trying hardest to prevent it. Both because of Biblical history and for the practical safety of all the people living in the reason. Now tell me again who the Zionists are?

Tsunami

2004-12-31T08:22:00.000-08:00

What a sad event. A disaster. It is unbelievable how much destruction can come in such a short amount of time in so many different places from the same event. Thailand, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, India, Somalia, Maldives, and others including countless little islands that may not exist anymore. The outpouring of support from all over the world, especially in the US and other western countries is just a testament to the superiority of western civilization. The care for other human beings. The scope of this may not be know for some time both in numbers of people and loss of property.

Of course, different people will attack The U.S. and President Bush for their own political reasons. So for the record. The United States gives more Money and assistance to humanitarian causes around the globe than the rest of the world combined.

But I do have some questions. Where is China? I do not see their name on any list. This is their backyards. Where are the Muslim countries? Aren't these their brothers that they care some much about? So of course it is the western countries that step up to the plate again and bear the burden of civilized humanity. And how can I not mention Sri Lanka. While people are dying every second from wounds and lack of care they refuse doctors and search teams offered from Israel. Why? Because once again, these governments have shown that they hate Jews more than they love themselves.

For the rest of us. We must do what we can. There are many lessons to be learnt from this. That is for some other time. Now it is the time to help and show our support.

"Customer Service" & Phone Purgatory

2004-12-28T19:51:00.000-08:00

Purgatory

pur·ga·to·ry ( P ) Pronunciation Key (pûrg-tôr, -tr)n. pl. pur·ga·to·ries

n 1: a temporary condition of torment or suffering; "a purgatory of drug abuse" 2: (theology) in Roman Catholic theology the place where those who have died in a state of grace undergo limited torment to expiate their sins
Source: WordNet ® 2.0, © 2003 Princeton University

Will someone please explain to me the point of customer service. Clearly they do not help the customer nor do they offer a service. When you call any company today, you have to spend all sorts of time speaking to a machine and dialing all sorts of numbers. Then, if you do not get disconnected, you get to speak to another machine with all sorts of other numbers. Only to be advised to call back tomorrow. When you finally get through to anyone, you are probably speaking to a new American phenomena called 'outsourcing'. Basically, someone in India who hardly understands what you are saying, let alone have the ability to help you or explain something to you so that you can understand it. Mind you, I have no problem with companies saving money by putting servicepeople overseas. But, for crying out loud, it does not help if they don't understand me or cannot help me. Especially if they don't speak English well. Alright, so lets say you finally get through to a 'supervisor', who is really just at some other desk that has no ability to do anything but listen to your story and apologize, but of course there is nothing they can do. The problem is, that all these people are not empowered to make decisions. In fact, if they make a decision on their own, they will lose their jobs. This is the basic problem with the American companies today. In their focus to save money, they have forgotten the customer. Now, don't give me the hogwash about better classes of customers. It does not matter who you are. These are rules that can be overridden by few (and getting fewer) individuals. The only difference is that people who do not care, just pay the difference all the time. That does not make it right. You want to know how I know. Because I work in just such a place. I have the ability to override some rules in my line of work. Only at the risk of my personal compensation. So I make a decision every time about how important this customer is to me. Even so, there are lots of rules that I try to get by and get stopped by some "service rep" who offers no service.

What is truly amazing is that this is exactly the reason why new businesses start up and older competitors get stale. This is where the new ones get their customers from. Until, of course, they start acting like the old ones. Just think of all the people you deal with. Phone company. Cable Company. Bank. Credit Card. Gas. Electric. Any government agency. Usually the more competition, the better chance you have. A great example of a great company would be JetBlue. Simple. Nice. Friendly. Sure, they also have rules. Nothing too complicated. You want trouble, Fly Delta.

Conviction

2004-12-24T10:20:00.000-08:00

Conviction
n 1: an unshakable belief in something without need for proof or evidence [syn: strong belief, article of faith]

It is amazing that the Palestinian politicians nor their press even pretend to want any peace with Israel. The new leader of Fatah, Kaddoumi, which was Arafat's terrorist group said clearly that the current acceptance of land from Israel is only stage one to destroy all of Israel. The new great peacemaker Abbas has a website. On the front page is him with the famous Nazi and Stalinist Al-Husseini. Proud, I am sure. The mentor of Arafat himself. Picture is worth a thousand words. In this case thousands of words that are left unspoken by the traitorous Israeli politicians that are blinded by money and power.

While all this is going on, the Israeli government threatens prosecution for anybody that speaks against them. For anybody that encourages hope for the Israeli population. What are they hiding? Why do they not prosecute the left wing in Israel that has and continues to openly support the Palestinian terrorists both in voice, action and money?

We are in a dark time and unfortunately our only hope is not the convictions ( or lack thereof) of the Jewish politicians. But the convictions and the open hatred of the Palestinian terrorists/politicians and those that support them. They are not afraid to tell the truth about what those convictions are. Kill all the Jews. WAKE UP!!

Uh Oh.

2004-12-23T07:14:00.000-08:00

Some time ago, I was speaking with a European businessman running a show store in the GUM department store across the plaza from the Kremlin. (Moscow, Russia for all those who don't know). He was explaining to me some of the difficulties in running the business. The gist of it was that he has to figure out how to keep his shelves stocked while never keeping too much inventory or equipment in the country. This is to protect against losing everything if the country undergoes some sort of turmoil. Political or otherwise ( which everyone knows can happen at any moment) or worse the Russian Mafia squeezes you out. (which again, everyone knows can happen at any moment)

I thought about this conversation recently while watching news reports of the obvious government takeover of a huge oil concern Yukos. Apparently the government and the Russian Mafia are the same thing . Today's news that PM Putin said that "it was all done legally, and besides the original privatization of the company was illegal", has sent chills through the Russian business world. They are all concerned, and rightly so, that any of them can be next. Amazingly the whole world is watching silently. Somehow the international banks believe that they will not get their assets stolen from them. Especially if they support the government stealing the assets from somebody else. Originally, when the first of these Oligarths were harassed out of business or out of the country the rest of them were silent . I am sure they regret that today because none of them know who is next and who will be after that.

I do not know all of the details of the privatizations or the current legal battles. Nor am I crying in defense of the Oligarths that ended up with these companies when all the smoke cleared in the early and mid 90's. But on the face of it, something terribly wrong, and the ripples effects will be long and deep.

Patriots or Traitors?

2004-12-19T17:31:00.000-08:00

While the Prime Minister of Israel Ariel Sharon is forcing his 'disengagement' plan down the Israeli public's throat, the terrorists in Gaza do not even pretend to say they will stop killing Jews to drive out Israel from all of Israel. The ever so smart Israelis still do not have the willpower to wipe out the terrorists when they have a presence in Gaza. What will they do when they do not have the presence there anymore? Of course, the Israelis say now that once they are out they will have a definable enemy and a definable target. (as if they do not know who the enemy is now). But of course, everyone knows that they are scared of the world opinion more than losing their lives. And yet more people will die and more excuses will be made.

Once Israel gives away Gaza to form yet another terrorist country in the middle east, all the politicians will say how much they regret what they have done, just like Begin with Sinai, or even Netanyahu with Hebron. And all giveaways in between.

The Israelis will only win the war against these terrorists when they have a reason to fight. And they stop apologizing every time another terrorist gets killed. For the most part, the liberals have taught the Israeli public in the schools that all of this suffering is their fault. All I have to ask those liberals is , if they feel that way then why not move elsewhere and clear their conscience. Maybe New York or better yet Paris. They seem to love Jews there.

Prescription Drugs

2004-12-16T20:27:00.000-08:00

I was thinking today about the problem facing our seniors in this country. They can't afford all the medications that they take. This had led to 'reimportation' from Canada or Mexico. Internet sales. Of course while these sources are cheap, it is also potentially dangerous. Both to the consumer (getting fake drugs) and to the companies (through loss of important revenues). What some people in this debate refuse to understand that there is a reason why a majority of these wonder-drugs are researched and developed in the United States. Simply because until now the US has allowed the companies to profit. As soon as you take away the potential to profit, the companies stop making the drugs. Everybody loses.

One of the reasons prescription drugs are so expensive is the the cost for researching and developing these drugs cost so much. For every drug that finally makes it to market, there are numerous drugs that fall by the wayside. For lack of safety, or unfortunately, for lack of funding. Even after these drugs make it to the market, the companies only have patent protection for a short number of years. Therefore they must recover their cost in this time.

I was thinking of a simple solution. Extend patent protection to let the producing company profit from it longer thereby extending the 'amortized cost' and lowering the price. Of course, this is not the only solution, but it could definitely help. It is in the governments hands to pass laws to make this happen.

Bernard Kerik

2004-12-13T19:04:00.000-08:00

Unfortunately, the reality is that if you have skeletons in the closet it will be found out when appointed to such a high profile position. Question is of course, how come these allegations did not come up earlier? And does it matter? He probably would would have made a great Homeland Defense Chief. Taxes for nannies. Who cares. Infidelity. We had a sitting president do that while in office, never mind before office. But those are the facts of life. How come Kerik, and for that matter Giuliani (who pushed his nomination) still threw his hat in the ring. The only thing to come of it is to embarrass the president. They should be held accountable only for their political foolishness.

Speaking of former presidents. Apparently that guy who Clinton pardoned at the last minute. Remember him? Marc Rich? Well, supposedly he is tied up in this massive corruption called 'oil-for-food'. He sure knows how to pick em.

Social Security

2004-12-06T19:31:00.000-08:00

In 1935 when the Social Security system as we know it was signed into law, life expectancy from birth was 58 for men and 62 for women. Less than 54% of men and 61% of women who reached 21 ever reached 65. Even if they did, life expectancy for men was less than 13 more years and women was less than 15. Today all these numbers are much higher. It almost seems like the system was set up only for the 'survivors of life' considering most didn't make it to collect the benefits or live that much longer even if they did. Today the system is clearly in trouble because there are not enough workers to fund the future obligations of the program. Mainly because the benefit collection date did not rise with life expectancy so the people that are still working need to fund more benefits.

I don't know what this all means. You figure it out.

Harvard and the other liberal elitists

2004-12-04T21:05:00.000-08:00

A couple days ago I saw a quip in the paper that the appellate court approved banning the military from campuses but said that the pentagon still must provide dollars to these campuses. Another example of activist judges on the wrong side of common sense. Harvard, quick to jump in banned the military because of alleged discrimination against gays forgets that the 'don't ask, don't tell' policy came from Clinton.

Why haven't I seen or heard any talk of this? I think it says a lot about our education system, when during a war they ban military recruiting. Sad . Very sad.

Exchange

2004-12-04T17:46:00.000-08:00

I was wondering why a peace with the Arabs with Israel requires that all Jews leave and the Arabs promise no violence (not that promises mean anything). For that matter why can't Israel exchange the areas in the West Bank and Gaza that Jews live in and make it part if Israel and then take parts of Israel that Arabs live in and make it part of any new Palestinian state.

Remember : Fences make great neighbors

Ukraine

2004-11-27T18:19:00.000-08:00

I don't quite understand all the details, but the alleged loser of the recent election has been in a Vienna hospital several times. It is obvious that something is wrong. Yuschenko looked like a movie star some months ago and now his face is falling apart and his eyes are watering. Did something happen to him? Did someone do something to him? Let us all pray that this turns out peacefully, because it does not look promising.

Belgium

2004-11-20T17:59:00.000-08:00

Another terror whitewash? A 25 y.o. man father of 5 children, walking out of a synagogue was shot point blank n the head by an Arab terrorist. Not in Israel. In Antwerp, Belgium. They finally made good on their threat that they made publicly several months ago to kill the Jews. Of course, the Belgian govt and Belgian media found numerous reasons not even to respond to this terror. Although I am sure that if they get some assassinations like in Holland they will start thinking. These are only Jews . Who cares?

UN corruption

2004-11-18T19:16:00.000-08:00

So it seems that the oil-for -food scandal is much bigger and larger than was earlier reported. Thanks to good senators like Norm Coleman who are making sure there is some sort of investigation. Apparently, all sorts of high governments and their officials were involved. Investigation is getting blocked from UN and Russia will not cooperate (you figure out why). And for all those people who say that Saddam Hussein had nothing to do with world terrorism , money from this program went directly to the families of Palestinian homicide bombing terrorists. This was through his personal representative in the west bank.

PS.. It was reported that the New York State senate began the process of giving more park space to the UN to build more buildings. This would require billions of state and federal dollars and loans. I say, let them pack their bags and move to France.