"Countrify America, Mr. President!"

A week ago, we saw the American Idol crowned again. I'm a fan; every year, I pledge I will not get involved in another season; by week two, I'm stuck again! This program has become an American institution; millions of viewers cast their votes for a favorite contestant, hoping he or she will be the next great voice. Scotty McCreery was this year's winner, and I couldn't have been happier. His clean and wholesome attitude; and youthful exuberance was wonderful. I'm a country fan, so his voice was a perfect fit for me; although I really liked the runner up, Lauren Alaina; also a country singer. Each of these two contestants were about sixteen years old; virtually children. Each of these contestants came from families with conservative American values. Each of these contestants seemed to have genuine affection for each other.

One of the things that I liked about Scotty was, he was offended and taken aback by "Pop Diva" Lady GaGa. Her suggestive comments were not well received by this young man; for that, I give him praise for exhibiting great character in the face of "popular culture". One hundred and twenty million people voted in the final week of Idol this year. This is an astounding number. When we examine the available choices, I find it interesting, that both contestants are from the country genre; perhaps, the most conservative music genre in America. Is this a reflection of what America really wants? There were "rockers", "jazz singers" and "soul singers"; yet, the finals were "country"; a thoroughly American form of music. Is this the true identity of America?

About a week or so ago, I wrote about a "Rap-Thug" called Common who went to the White House to reflect American culture. Vile music about violence and murder was invited into our nation's home, and showcased as American culture. I didn't hear if Toby Keith, or John Rich got a call from our First Lady; but I guess they didn't. I don't know if President Obama called Scotty to congratulate him; I didn't hear anything about it. Is what is being reflected in the White House truly what America yearns to be? Do we want our youth striving to "carry an Uzi, or kill a cop"?

I would like to thank America for showing what they really believe about American values. "Common" couldn't be more well-named; because he is common in his venue. His work reflects all the things we don't want America to degenerate into, violence and disregard for the law.

Mr. President, America is a country,;let's put the Country back in America! Well, my friends,that's a "RAP"!

"FALLEN HEROES!"

I ask all of you this question: What cannot be replaced? We all have favorite things; I have photos and some sports collectibles that I'm very fond of, but I would not be scarred for life if I lost them through some minor tragedy. Things are only things, and nothing more!

When I was in Alabama, at Fort McClellan, I had an opportunity to see the men who were the drill team at Arlington Cemetery. I had a rough day of dealing with trainees and I was tired, but after some persistent pestering from a fellow NCO, I went to watch those soldiers train in drill and ceremonies. I will never forget how great this group was. Each trooper was in step and sequence to one another; each looked like a recruiting poster and all of them were dedicated to be the best. After their drill was over, I talked to some of them, and I was impressed; America could be very proud of those young men. They go through special selection and requirements to become a member of this select group. They each have to take classes on the history of Arlington Cemetery, and be able to answer any questions from visitors when asked.

Arlington is one of America's most revered places. Its rows of graves represent soldiers, marines, sailors and airmen who have given their lives in the protection of America's freedom. I have some friends who rest at Arlington. Richie went to high school with me, he was a year older than I; he was a great guy. Richie had an older brother named Steve, who was also a great guy. Steve enlisted in the Marines and served in Viet Nam, with honor, like his big brother, Richie enlisted in the Corp. We all kidded him about being careful and not "messing his pants" in battle; everyone laughed. Nobody laughed when we heard that Richie was killed in battle. We knew we wouldn't see him again; no more jokes, no more friendly conversations; only an empty space where a good kid once stood. Mike was my first squad leader; he was from Chicago and we would compare notes on "hot dog joints" across the city, and where the best pool halls were. I was home when I heard Mike was killed while eating his noon meal under a tree. Mike and Richie are now part of a unique brotherhood; those who traded life for freedom. John was a very good friend, we played little league baseball together; he was a role model before the term role model existed. John was a Captain in Special Forces. It took John a little while to suffer from the war; John got cancer from Agent Orange, and it took him twenty years to die for his country; I still think of him today.

Monday is Memorial Day; it is for men like Richie, Mike and John. I'm glad there are troopers who are specially trained to watch over these fallen heroes; these men most certainly deserve this. I'm sure I'm not the only man who has stories like Richie, Mike and John; there are thousands of them. WWI, WWII, Korea, Viet Nam, Desert Storm and now our current conflicts continue to produce martyrs for freedom and country. Have a wonderful holiday on Monday; never forget what it means, or the price that has been paid. This holiday is really for them, you know.

(This is my last blog til Tuesday, have a good holiday, remember a veteran.)

"Choice!"

I went to elementary school in the 1950s, a much more family oriented era than we see today. I didn't know anyone whose parents were divorced until I got to high school. My Mom stayed at home to take care of us, while Dad worked two jobs to make ends meet. School was across the street from our 2-flat, I could see it from our living room. I don't remember anything of a controversial issue while I was in grade school. Parents were in control of the spiritual and moral teaching that their children would receive; we got the "3-R's" and proselytizing didn't exist, as it does today. The words "politically correct" didn't exist yet, and minority issues usually applied to racial prejudice and nothing else. I don't remember hearing the word evolution in my science class; it's only a theory you know. I never heard the term "alternate life style", and I thought gay meant happy. My Dad never discussed homosexuality with me; I didn't know it existed until much later, in my early teen years. When I finally asked Dad about it, he said somewhere in their lives those people got messed up; God didn't intend for people to act that way, and we never spoke about it again. I could see it made my Dad uncomfortable.

Having never questioned myself about this condition, I couldn't understand it very well; one look at a contraband "Playboy" and I was hooked on girls! When I became a father, our house reflected traditional values, which I believe we've passed on to our daughter. She knew more about the "gay life" at a younger age than I did, she also read her bible and believes that the "gay life" isn't what God intends for us, as do I.

Before you start screaming "homophobia", I would like to make one thing clear; an individual's life is theirs to lead, however they wish to lead it. This doesn't mean I have to approve of it, or validate it. This also means I can offer my opinion as to tax dollars being spent to advocate an agenda.

Television, radio and printed media are in the process of making homosexuality part of the norm in America, and throughout the world; I don't agree with that position. I don't hate Gay People! I don't advocate their choice in life. I don't want my children or grandchildren taught that it is a viable way to live.

In Oakland,California at the Redwood ELEMENTARY School, children of a very young age are being indoctrinated into the belief that gay and transgendered life is an acceptable alternative to traditional marriage and a heterosexual life. This is being explained under the cover of "evolution" and the animal kingdom. The quote I've read says this "(There's) a lot of variation in nature. Evolution comes up with some pretty funny ways for ANIMALS to reproduce. It turns out that there are not just two options."

As I stated earlier, evolution is a theory, never been proven by any scientist, it is all conjecture, depending on random selection. I don't subscribe to the evolution theory, and I don't want it taught as fact. I believe we are more than animals, and should not behave as the animal kingdom does. This persistent advocating of "alternative lifestyles" doesn't belong in any grade schools; let parents deal with these controversial issues as they see fit. STOP SPENDING TAX DOLLARS ON THIS SPECIAL INTEREST GROUP, AND INDOCTRINATING OUR CHILDREN!

I'm sure this blog will be unpleasant for some of you, and for that I apologize, but I believe it had to be said. God loves all of us; this is not condemnation, it is choice. Please don't force your choice on my children.

" La! La! La!"

"When you were little did you ever cover your ears when you didn't want to hear the remarks of someone? Did you cover them and make noises like "La,La,La!!" to make sure you couldn't hear words that were not to your liking? This playground behavior is pretty common from eight year old children.

Teenagers will sometimes storm off to their rooms to pout about decisions that were made that they weren't in agreement with. Muttering under their breath is a common reaction to discipline. Constructive criticism is never welcome, and is usually met with a slamming door, or statements like "I hate you!", or "I wish I'd never been born!" Ah, adolescents are so special!

Adults are supposed to react in a mature manner when confronted with "bad behavior". We have consequences for bad behavior; you know; jail! If we didn't have courts and jails, and we could only shake our fingers at wrongdoers, what would happen to our society? Could our streets turn into armed camps, and our honest citizens hide in the walls of their homes because criminals and miscreants roamed the nation? What would life be like if all our police could do was criticize criminals without the power to stop their actions?

For the last two-and-a-half years, the United Nations have been issuing sanctions against Iran about nuclear weapons development. As time has passed, Iran has done its level best to totally ignore United Nations sanctions, virtually covering their ears and saying "La,La,La, I can't hear you!" Once again the International Atomic Energy Agency has voiced concern about Iran's nuclear ambitions. Guess what America; Iran is ignoring this too! What a surprise!!

Back door activity between Iran and Syria is common knowledge, and it has been going on for a very long time. The United Nations sanctions do NOTHING!! The lunatic Ahmadinejad will continue on his radical path to destroy Israel and, when able, America. No Muslim nation will take action to stop Iran's actions because they AGREE WITH HIM! The World Police Force, you know; the U.N., is a useless body with no real teeth. We now reap the benefits of a weak defense, courtesy of Barack Obama. Less missiles, more reliance on international diplomacy, and a desire to become "one of the pack" instead of a world leader have led us into this horrible situation.

Mr. President, all the speeches in the world will not stop this situation! This "SPOILED CHILD" isn't listening to speeches or sanctions!! He is saying "La, La ,La, I can't hear you!!!"

"The Return of the Monster!"

I wonder if Bram Stoker and Mary Shelly knew what they were starting when they penned their most famous characters; Frankenstein and Dracula! Both of the original novels are compelling and well written; and not much like the movie treatments. When "Frankenstein" and "Dracula" entered the movies, could anyone have predicted the plethora of sequels that would follow them? Frankenstein would go on to meet the "Wolf Man", as would Dracula. Frankenstein would have a host of relatives show up, daughters and sons, even a teenage version in the 1950s. Dracula also had his family show up as his son and daughter and some of his wives wreaked havoc on an unprepared populous. No matter what was used to destroy these monster icons, they kept coming back! We now have contemporaries such as Freddy Kruger and Jason, who seem just as sturdy as "Old Drac and Frank". Sometimes monsters are difficult to remove! Burning wind mills, stakes in the heart, glaciers and drowning seem to have no effect on these monsters. I'm really glad they only exist in fiction.

I recently read that former Russian President Vladimir Putin is going to seek the Russian Presidency once again. Yes, my fellow Americans, the former head of the KGB, and former President seems ready to resurrect himself as the Chief Executive in Russia. Under the Russian Constitution, a person can only serve two consecutive terms as president; unlike our constitution, after a term layoff, they can seek office again (thank God we don't have that here).

Putin alluded that he may want to return to the Presidency when Dimitry Medvedev took office. The popular opinion is that Medvedev was just keeping the seat warm for Putin's return. The article I read said Putin is beginning to doubt Medvedev's loyalty. In the old days of the KGB, I'm sure disloyalty would be quietly removed, if you know what I mean! It's a good thing Russia is such a staunch republic now (sarcasm).

What does this mean to America? Iran and Syria are rumored to have very close, "under the table" discussions with Russia, and none of these three nations are overly fond of Israel or the United States. Russia still has a stockpile of nuclear weapons and usable plutonium, and I'm sure they are willing to deal these commodities to the highest bidder. Believe this, America, if Iran or Syria gets a hold of these dangerous elements, radical Islamist terrorists will certainly have access to them.

We have already entered into terrible arms agreements with the Russians, leaving America in a weakened condition. The return of Putin will only make things worse than they are now.

I find it interesting that Dracula was based on a character called "Vlad the Impaler"; you know Vlad is short for Vladimir.

"Barack Obama, TIME TRAVELLER!"

"Help Me Rhonda!" blasting out of my radio in my 1958 Cadillac convertible, cruising around the neighborhood; what great memories! My top was down, and I didn't have a care in the world. It would be a while before I enlisted in the Army, the sun was bright and the girls were all cute. I stopped for gas and the pump price was .35 cents a gallon; after that, I stopped for a hot dog for .25 cents. I was making $1.65 an hour and I had plenty of money for movies, pizza and shopping for new LEVIS. Our house cost Mom and Dad around $38,000 dollars, not bad for a Chicago suburb. Our household was ten people, two of whom were retired. We always had food on the table, and it was tasty. The year was 1967; I had not yet reached my twentieth birthday. The war in Viet Nam was real, and every person had their own opinion of its validity. The median income in America was about $7,300 a year; wow, try that now. Oddly, one hour of minimum wage pay could buy about five gallons of gas; today that same minimum wage will buy about two gallons of gas. Israel won a war in six days; pretty good for a country that would be considered a tiny state here. Yes, 1967 was a very interesting year; but we can't go back there.

Last week, President Barack Obama made a speech promoting the restoration of the 1967 Israeli border, asking Israel to give up hard fought territory won in the hopes of insuring security for the people. I honestly don't understand this President's distancing from the nation of Israel. Israel has been our friend since its inception; this statement can't be made about most of our other "friends" in the world.

Israel, as I said earlier, would be considered a tiny state here. Israel is surrounded by nations whose policies are blatant in their hatred of Israel, and openly advocate obliteration of the Israeli people. For more years than I would like to think about, the people of Israel has been dealing with terrorism and attack on their civilian population. America has been dealing with radical Islamists for only a little over a decade, yet,we are willing to do almost anything to deal with them. Israel has been doing it for over sixty years. Do you think it would be a good idea to go back forty-four years, and give up land needed to protect itself?

Prime Minister Netanyahu has basically told Obama to "forget about it", in the words of "Donnie Brasco". The atmosphere between Obama and Netanyahu was "chilled' to say the least; and I don't blame the Israeli Prime Minister; I blame Barack Obama. Obama seems more than willing to throw Israel "under the bus" in efforts to placate the Middle-East Islamist radicals. Ahmadinejad and the Muslim Brotherhood must be doing cartwheels over Obama's latest insult to the Israeli people. Barack Obama doesn't understand that those lunatics will happily turn their hatred on the United States as soon as they can wipe Israel off the map! Our President is being STUPID AGAIN!

As an American who supports Israel, I would like to offer my sincerest apologies to the fine people of Israel for the actions of America's President. He does not reflect the beliefs of freedom loving Americans! My prayers go out to all of you during these most trying times. America will be making a choice next November; I hope she will consider Mr. Obama's attitude toward Israel; I certainly will!

(I would like to thank all of those who have prayed for me since my minor accident, I'm not quite 100%, but I'm close!)

Minor Accident

Dear Readers:

Due to a minor accident, I will not be posting for the remainder of this week and will hopefully return on May 23, 2011. Thank you for your patience.

T.P.

"Delivering Garbage to the White House!"

Being from Illinois, I grew up reading the poems of Carl Sandburg. These works were beautiful and inspiring. I laughed while I read "Tom Sawyer" and "Huckleberry Finn"; Sam Clemons could certainly put words together. I was enrapt in "The Old Man and the Sea"; Hemingway was a genius. My Mom taught me the beauty of George Gershwin, and Cole Porter; their music is timeless. George M. Cohan had America cheering with his patriotic flag waving pride in our nation. Steinbeck, Updike and countless other American writers and artists have given us years of quality literature, which delighted and educated generations. From Elvis Presley to Garth Brooks; American musical artists have contributed to our culture in a good and positive way.

We are a nation of immigrants; Jews, Poles, Germans, Irish, Italian, Spanish, French and Slavs; Black, White, Brown and Yellow; these are all the faces of America. Every one of the groups mentioned have given something to America that we, as a nation, can all take pride in.

Our music and literature define us as a country. They reflect our values and morals through their prose and poetry. They show the world who we are.

Over the last decade or so, we have had a genre of music and writing that have made crimes like rape, murder and violent action fashionable and popular. The "rap" industry is rampant with stories of criminal behavior, sometimes ending in murder. Lyrics that call for murderous acts should not be an acceptable example of art to the American people. Music that deals with social issues is fine, but those issues should not include violent remedies to the problems that are addressed. Anarchy seems to be the solution that is offered by this type of music.

President Obama and First Lady Michelle invited a rapper-poet known as "Common" to the White House to celebrate American Prose and Poetry. "Common" is an advocate of violence against police. He has said "I hold a peace sign but I carry a gun" and "Tell the law my UZI weighs a ton"; not exactly Carl Sandburg, or Ernest Hemingway! "Common" should change his name to "Common Thug", his words are those of a street gang criminal, and have no place in the spotlight of our nation's capitol. This garbage is divisive and dangerous, it incites violence, and a steady diet of this poison will poison our entire society.

I have a question for our Chief Executive: What value does this poison have in uniting America? I don't see any upside to this trash. If Mr. Obama's goal is to polarize our nation, then he should continue to invite radical, violent and divisive people into our nation's house. Is this your strategy, Mr. President; to divide and conquer?

(I'm taking a day off tomorrow and will be back on Monday, have a great week-end!)

"Safer Now ??"

Have you ever been accused of not paying attention? I would sometimes daydream in my geometry class in high school. Mr. McNullty was my teacher, and he made Ben Stein look like Jerry Lewis. Mr. McNullty's monotone delivery of formulas and theorems could stop Niagara Falls from flowing. I also had a history teacher who was Mr. McNullty's polar opposite. Mr. Woll would jump out of clothes closets, shouting and running around the class to make his points. I blame Mr. Woll for my on-going love affair with history. Sometimes, if you want to be heard, you have to attract attention to yourself! Mr. Woll's World History Class was pretty well received by most of his students; yet, some of his students still failed to pay attention; and they failed. I know some professors, and I've heard some of the answers that America's future leaders have submitted on their exams. To say the least, I was severely concerned about America's future! When the facts are presented, and they are ignored, the only option is failure.

Yesterday, President Obama made a speech about immigration reform and border security. This speech was an exercise in politics, with no regard to facts or reality. Once again, Mr. Obama pandered to the illegal alien population in America, totally ignoring the growing mountain of facts in regards to crime and border violence. I don't know how to address Mr. Obama's total lack of any grasp on this issue. Any person who has followed, or continues to follow, the battleground assaults on our southern border must be astounded by Obama's denial of this continued onslaught on the American citizens in our border states!

Obama says, the border is safer now than it has ever been! Obama says he's done everything the Republicans have asked for. Have I been on another planet, because I don't remember one single issue that this president has addressed with any real competence! Murder, rape and a state of constant trepidation exists and have not been addressed by Barack Obama! In his speech, he sarcastically remarked about digging a moat, and filling it with alligators to secure our border. Pretty funny Mr. President, why don't you try that monologue on the families who have suffered deaths and personal attacks from criminal illegal aliens, who have crept into America since you have made our border "safer now than it has ever been before"!

If you live in New Hampshire or Rhode Island, perhaps this doesn't sound like a real issue to you. This is not about arresting a bunch of unskilled workers running from a lousy situation; it's about keeping drug dealers, gang members and potential terrorists from destroying America, by ignoring this threat.

I think there is already a "moat", and it surrounds the White House. It is keeping common sense from creeping in; but it allows political expediency to flow through it. I don't like to use the word liar, but I find I have to choose between that word, and the word stupid.

MR. OBAMA, WHICH IS IT? ARE YOU LYING, OR ARE YOU STUPID? WHY DO YOU CONTINUE TO DENY FACTS? PERHAPS YOU BELONG IN A POLITICAL MOAT, COME NOVEMBER 2012!!

"Happy Birthday, Dear Friend!"

I have a sister who is a genius in real estate; anything you want to know about home purchase, she can tell you. A home purchase is probably the largest investment most average Americans make. She often says "You don't just buy the house, you buy the neighborhood", and that is very true. When we bought our house, we wanted to make sure we were in a normal residential neighborhood. We live in a university town, and I really like the students; but I don't want to live next door to them. Midnight week-end parties, loud music and odd hours don't appeal to me at this stage of my life. I understand youth will have its time; I just don't want to see it "up close and personal". Before you buy a house, check out the neighbors. I don't believe you would want to be surrounded by "Crips and Bloods". It would certainly be awful to be celebrating a child's birthday and have a "drive by" take place. Your home should always be a secure place.

Israel just celebrated its 63rd Independence Day! I join Israel in this celebration of their nation's re-birth. They are still a staunch ally, despite our current administrations' poor efforts in their behalf. Since 1948, Israel has built a successful democracy, while defending herself against neighbors who have done their best to "chase them out of the neighborhood".

As Americans, we are secure in our homes and towns, knowing we have police, fire, and military protection, and we have two great oceans distancing us from some potential threats; even though our southern border offers a real threat of violence from illegal invaders.

Israel is in visual distance of those who wish to bomb her out of existence. Iran, Syria, Libya and now it looks like the new Egypt, are encircling this small nation with "bad intentions". Israel has a population of 7,746,000; not many people in relation to the population of its unfriendly neighbors; yet, they found time to celebrate their nation. You won't find too many Israeli people who aren't patriotic. Most of them have friends or relatives who have fought to keep Israel free and independent from potential aggression. The people of this nation should be applauded for their tenacity and grit. Children as young as fifteen or sixteen years old serve in various capacities to help maintain the security of their country; many Americans could take a lesson from them.

America has suffered losses from terrorist attacks and violence from illegal alien criminals; yet, we don't carry the fear that they could be sitting in their living rooms and suddenly be hit with a missile attack. Israel has this fear every day of every year for 63 years, yet Israel endures!

As an admirer of Israel, I wish my sincerest congratulations, and highest hopes for your continued success in a very difficult situation. All of America can take a page from the people of Israel, as an example of national pride and commitment to freedom. May God Bless Israel and her people!!

"Who Deserves the Right to Life?"

Every year, tens of thousands of unborn children are "executed" without a trial, with very little reaction, except from a select few anti-abortion groups. The names of "Pro-Choice" supporters are filled with celebrities from Hollywood, television and leftist politicians. I've said it before, and I say it again, "Did the cure for cancer end up in a dumpster, sealed in a plastic bag?" Why do so many people deny life to those innocents? Why does our government deny the fact that those children deserve the same rights as a child molester in prison? Why is it alright to give a blind eye to the rights that are guaranteed under our constitution to those who are truly unable to defend themselves? Liberals across America will shout from the highest mountain in defense of the right to murder the unborn! Isn't this one of the most perverse values you've ever heard? We have heard the term "cruel and unusual punishment" thrown about for decades; is this not cruel and unusual? These children did nothing to merit a death sentence, yet where is the public outcry?

One week ago, the people of America learned of the death of Usama Bin Laden, and we were ecstatic! Flags flew, people cheered and television news had a hey day with extended coverage of our collective satisfaction over the death of this vermin.

Well America, it didn't take long for the leftist loons and the U.N. to throw cold water on this VICTORY over radical Islamists. Michael Moore is complaining that Bin Laden should have had his "day in court" rather than being sent to visit Allah face to face. The United Nations is now questioning our right to eliminate this walking excrement and may want to launch an investigation into the military action!

Michael Moore is about a half step behind Karl Marx, and as close to an idiot as anyone in public life can be and remain out of a sanitarium. His statements have become more and more ridiculous, and I now believe he is unable to form a cogent thought. His hate for America is virulent; he loves Castro and socialism; yet, I don't see much about him giving away any of the millions of dollars he has made under this terrible system. Come on Michael, give it up for the "proletariat".

The United Nations is one of the biggest mistakes we have ever made as a nation. We pay most of the bills for this waste of time and money, and we sustain a constant barrage of criticism from this body of grafters and dictators. Oddly, we see nothing in defense of unborn children from the U.N., or Michael Moore. I would think this issue would be foremost as a human rights concern, yet to Michael and the U.N., not so much! Michael and the U.N. are more worried about the rights and treatment of murdering terrorists. Am I the only one confused by this position? Three thousand American citizens were slaughtered by order of Usama Bin Laden; I don't care whether he was armed or not when he was shot! Do you think the Russians would have held Adolph Hitler for trial had they captured his bunker before he committed suicide, even if poor Adolph was unarmed?

It's time to tell Michael and the United Nations to "GET LOST"! Michael is just an idiot, and the U.N. doesn't have any legitimate jurisdiction in this matter. We are an autonomous nation, with our own constitution, laws and military. Let's defend those who need defending. Americans are better served worrying about those defenseless children, than murdering lunatics; they've made their choices, let them "reap their benefits".

"TWO IN THE HEAD!!"

I own two dogs, Simon and Garfunkel; actually they own me. I'm at their beckoned call most of the time, "feed me, walk me, pet me"! Simon is a border-collie lab mix and Garfunkel is a yellow lab, they get along very well, except every once in a while they use my living room for a race track. Both of them take turns sitting on my lap, Garfunkel takes up more of it than Simon does. I, like many dog owners, treat them like my children. I do my best to see that they are well fed, clean and happy; I love my dogs. Sometimes we sit and watch Animal Planet, and see what some people do to helpless animals. I'll admit these shows make my blood boil; the punishment is never really equivalent to the crime, because they are animals. When Michael Vick was convicted of running a dog fighting ring, I believe the proper punishment would have been to put him in a boxing ring with Mike Tyson, and let Tyson beat him until he couldn't stand up; then he would have some idea of what his dogs went through. Perhaps I'm over-reacting; people do over-react.

A couple of days ago, Lawrence O'Donnell of MSNBC, made a suggestion that, perhaps America over-reacted to the 9-11 tragedy. I was dumbfounded as I read this. In all of my years of life, I can't think of a single moment that had this type of impact on America, short of the Kennedy assassination. Over THREE THOUSAND AMERICAN LIVES WERE SNUFFED OUT! Why would Mr. O'Donnell think America was over-reacting? O'Donnell went on to give a diatribe of how John Kerry would have handled it so much better than George Bush; thank God we didn't find out!

Perhaps Mr. O'Donnell was right; perhaps we should have gone through a period of self examination, wondering why these murderers did this heinous act. Perhaps it was our fault!

Maybe we should re-examine our decisions about Pearl Harbor, or the Holocaust. Perhaps we were over-reacting then too! O'Donnell is not alone with this type of ridiculous logic; he is just the latest leftist moron to promote this "guilting of America" philosophy. This belief that everything is America's fault is ludicrous. Now we are worried about the Bin Laden death photos; what will happen if we show them? I think the best thing we can do is show them! Let the terrorists know what to expect! If you continue to mess with the United States, you will get "TWO IN THE HEAD!" Some say it will put our troops in further jeopardy; I don't believe this will make two cents worth of difference! THEY ALREADY HATE US!! My answer to Mr. O'Donnell is this, "WE ARE NOT GETTING ANGRY; WE ARE GETTING EVEN!!"

"Poof, You're Gone!"

There is an old saying "There are no atheists in fox holes", and personally, I believe this to be true. In any combat situation, when death may be imminent, most soldiers and marines will call on the Almighty God. Faith is very important to soldiers, sailors, marines and airmen. We have a saying "For God and Country" which resonates throughout those who serve. I've seen some pretty tough guys on their knees; knowing that they weren't the ones who were really in charge. Even in basic training, the Chapel was always full on Sunday morning. It has been a while since I've been on an Army post, but I'll bet those Chapels are still pretty well attended. America is a nation built on faith in God; this gives us our national moral compass.

What is atheism? It is the belief that God doesn't exist. It is the belief that after this life, there is nothing, and the individual doesn't exist any longer; "poof, you're gone!" Atheism also begs the question of " why be good and why risk yourselves for anything other than your own survival?" Another question is" why volunteer for any branch of the armed services, other than a nice retirement", "why risk the only life you get endangering it for the safety of people you don't know?" Atheism is illogical if you do anything that will shorten your life to benefit others. Atheism is a selfish belief; take what you want, there is no moral consequence, just don't get caught!

A couple of days ago, I read an article saying that a small number of atheists want some type of atheist chaplain in the armed services. I didn't know what to make of this request. Do the atheists want somewhere to go on Sunday morning, rather than sleep in? What would a sermon from an atheist chaplain sound like? "My atheist brothers and sisters don't believe in anything today! Do anything you want, just don't let anybody else see you do it! Don't contemplate your existence, it's all for nothing! Behave like animals, life is not sacred!" I guess this would about cover the atheist belief system in a nutshell. If an atheist gets wounded in combat, would he expect to be taken care of first, after all he's not going anywhere if he dies, and the believers are!

In America, you can believe or disbelieve anything you like, as long as you don't harm others. I just find it strange that atheists are so threatened by those that have faith in a higher power. I'm a Christian, and I don't feel threatened by atheists; they can do what they wish, as long as they allow me the same right.

If you are ever in a fire-fight, or tank rounds are shooting over your head, and you don't believe in God, do me a favor, try not to cry out to God; He's busy with the rest of us at those times!

"Fools and Idiots!"

Anyone who has followed my blog knows I'm a boxing fan. I enjoy a good fight, and I've seen plenty of them. From the time I was a young boy watching the "Friday Night Fights" with my Dad, to the present, I've done my best not to miss any of the "big fights". I've watched all of the Heavyweight Champions from Rocky Marciano up to the fragmenting of the title when Lennox Lewis ended his career. Every champion was unique in style and attitude. Rocky was quiet and business-like, Floyd Patterson was almost shy, with great skill and speed; of course Ali was the ultimate showman, quick-witted and masterful in the ring. One of the most misunderstood champions was Larry Holmes, a fighter of great skill, with arguably the best left jab the heavyweight division ever had. Larry had the unfortunate circumstance of following Ali; a pretty tough act to follow. He was sometimes described as difficult to interview and not as colorful as his predecessor. What some folks don't realize is that Larry was a compassionate champion. I remember his fight against Marvis Frazier, son of Joe Frazier. Larry was a much better fighter than poor Marvis; Larry was beating Marvis to a pulp, and he wasn't enjoying it; he looked at the referee and said "Do you want me to kill him?"; in real concern for the over-matched opponent. Finally, Larry did the only thing he could do; he knocked out the helpless Marvis. I had new respect for Larry after that fight. The best thing he could do was use all his skills to end the contest; it was best for him and his foe.

Bin Laden is dead; we are all happy about that. America did the right thing, and a criminal murderer got his just desserts! Now we are faced with what to do next. Do we take it easy and pull back a little, or do we put on additional pressure to let the enemy know we still have great resolve in our mission?

Barney Frank thinks we should cut our defense spending by 200 billion dollars. Personally, I think Barney is an IDIOT! This is typical weak leftist garbage. If Frank wants to trim the budget, let's get rid of the funding for "La Raza", public radio or Planned Parenthood. The idea of cutting defense spending is ridiculous. We have the finest and bravest military in the world, and our duty is to make sure they are properly funded. Barney believes that the terrorists are not an immediate threat to the American people; unlike the old Soviet Union. I guess Barney doesn't remember 9-11 as well as the rest of us.

America, we need to wake up! Barney Frank and the parade of fools that share his beliefs must be given a public "smack-down" from the voters. These types of soft bellied liberals will send us to "Hell in a hand basket", if we allow them to continue on this road to weakness. AMERICA IS FREE BECAUSE AMERICA IS STRONG! IF WE CHOOSE TO WEAKEN OURSELVES, THEN EXPECT MORE ATTACKS OF GREATER DESTRUCTION! GO AWAY BARNEY, YOU ARE A FOOL!

"Truth, Justice and HUH?"

When I was a very young boy, one of my favorite television shows was "The Adventures of Superman", starring George Reeves. I rarely missed an episode, glued to the set, waiting to see the "Man of Steel" fly through the air, or crush a gun with his vice-like grip. There wasn't a "bad guy" anywhere in the universe who could stand up against Superman. Superman was the quintessential American hero; his motto of "Truth, Justice, and the American Way" struck a chord with kids all over America. Superman was what America aspired to be; strong, fair, just and kind. In the 1940s he went after Hitler, and was demonized by the NAZI regime. "Old Supe" captured communists in the 50s with ease. America has had an ongoing love affair with Clark Kent; the "mild mannered reporter". Clark, like most Americans, didn't want trouble; yet Clark was quick to call on his "alter-ego" to remedy violence and injustice when it reared its ugly head. We love the "Superman" legend so much, that as a nation, we have flocked to theatres to watch a series of films and several television treatments of the "Man of Steel". When I was newly married, my wife and I stopped on our way home from work to be some of the first to see "Superman, the Movie" at the Woodfield Cinema. We wanted to see a man fly, and it was worth it!

Over the years, the character of "Superman" has had some changes; he even "died" in one comic book. At times, he has become sullen and depressed; perhaps a reflection of our current national condition. Last week, I read an article that said Superman was going to renounce his American citizenship. What kind of foolishness is this? The article said the character is tired of being perceived as a tool of government. Evidently, the "American Way", isn't what it used to be! I guess we should have expected this from an "illegal alien"! This is symbolic of an attitude today that finds patriotism, and belief that America is special, is no longer something to be desired. The ideal now seems to be that we become "citizens of the world", and leave our American pride somewhere in the background. "Superman" would not have been so super had he landed anywhere else in the world other than the U.S.A.! What if he had landed in Germany in 1938; now that's something to think about!

Truth and justice are cornerstones of our American belief system. Other nations all fall short when compared to us. Superman is a mirror image of what America constantly strives to be; that is the "American Way"!

Look at today's world; war, disaster, ideological conflict and economic devastation: this is the way of the world! Maybe "Old Supe" will reconsider his decision to represent the "whole world" view. "Supe", like it or not, THE AMERICAN WAY IS THE BEST!!

"A Job Well Done!!"

We never got a chance to see Hitler brought to justice at the end of WWII. My Dad said it was too bad, the people deserved to see "The Fuhrer" laying dead. It took from 1939 to 1945 to corner the NAZI vermin; in the end, he took the "coward's way out" by taking his own life. In Italy, Mussolini and his mistress were killed and then strung up by their heels and the bodies were abused by angry Italians; Hitler was worried he would suffer the same fate as his friend; suicide seemed more attractive. Saddam Hussein was given a trial and promptly hanged, for him, justice was swift and severe. Hitler was responsible for the murder of millions of innocent lives; Mussolini was a coward, whose only victory came against tiny Ethiopia and Saddam Hussein was a brutal dictator who killed tens of thousands of his political adversaries and innocent civilians. Each of these men was blight against humanity; their deaths left the world a better place.

Last night, the orchestrator of the cowardly attack on the Twin Towers on 9-11 was finally brought to justice. Usama Bin Laden is dead! New Yorkers filled the streets in celebration of the elimination of this festering sore from the face of the earth. Bin Laden was the "mastermind" of this heinous attack against America. Unprovoked violence that resulted in the deaths of over 3,000 innocent people by this lunatic launched a pursuit that lasted until last night, and we are finally rid of this Radical Muslim madman!

I would like to give congratulations to President Obama is the ending of this sub-human's life; it is a great "feather in his cap", and the people of America are feeling great relief at Bin Laden's demise. Plaudits should also be given to former President Bush, whose continued pressure on the terrorist forced him to keep running to avoid capture; Bin Laden was never comfortable.

The question we must now ask ourselves is "what happens next"? Unlike Hitler, Mussolini or Sadamm Hussein, Usama Bin Laden's void will probably be quickly filled; and perhaps, by someone even more radical than he was. I'm sure as I write this there is a group of Islamic terrorists lined up to take violent actions in retribution for the death of Bin Laden. I'm certainly glad I'm not in charge of the Secret Service; his hands are most full at this time. I'm sure there are radical Muslims who are planning an attempt on our President's life, and I pray for his safety. The danger is that America lets her guard down in the mistaken belief this will weaken the resolve of those radical Islamists. Soon we will see demonstrations condemning the United States, and calling for more terrorist action against "The Great Satan". We have been able to cut off the "head of the snake", but it is likely the snake will grow a new one.

Today, I'm thankful for our military, they deserve our praise and support for a job well done! We must redouble our efforts to hunt down and capture every other terrorist fanatic that may attempt to continue Bin Laden's work. GOD BLESS AMERICA, LET US DO HIS WORK! GOD BLESS THE PEOPLE, AND GIVE US STRENGTH FOR THE CONTINUED FIGHT!