Have you ever noticed how quickly time passes as you get a little "long in the tooth"? It seems like Christmas was just here, and now it's back again. This coming year, I will be celebrating my 45th year out of high school (I still look good)! Thirty-four years ago Earl Campbell won the Heisman Trophy, the NFL played its 5000th game (Bengals 27- Chiefs 7) and Star Wars was the top box office smash.
What is an anniversary? Anniversary: a day that commemorates or celebrates a past event that occurred on the same day of the year as the initial event. I guess that sums it up pretty well, except it does leave out some stuff, like what has gone on since that "initial event". My "initial event" took place thirty-four years ago, when my wonderful wife decided to take my name, and my life changed forever. I certainly didn't deserve her, she was, and is, vibrant, soft-hearted, kind, considerate, beautiful, beautiful, beautiful and, did I say, beautiful! We have shared dinners, breakfasts and ice cream cones, and with her each time is a memory for me. She carries me when things aren't so good, and keeps me humble when I get "full of myself". When all else fails, I know she will always be there for me, and I know she feels the same way about me!
If I could put my heart in my hands, it would have "Adrienne" printed across it. I could not imagine my life without her. An unknown writer once said "You don't marry someone you can live with - you marry the person you cannot live without"; I don't know who he was, but he couldn't have been more right.
Each day I pray, and in my prayers I always thank God for allowing me to have "My Adrienne", the best answer I ever had to any prayer! My words are weak when I try to say what she means to me, it's like trying to hold a bubble without breaking it, or capture a ring of smoke.
As I close this message to the world about my wife, I will turn to some who are more well spoken than I: "I love you, not for what you are, but for what I am when I am with you", Roy Croft: and this final statement which really says it all, "Real love stories never have endings", Richard Bach. I know all these words to be true. Happy Anniversary to my WONDERFUL, AMAZING and BEAUTIFUL WIFE!! I LOVE YOU ADRIENNE!!
Friday, December 9, 2011
Thursday, December 8, 2011
"If It Works, Don't Fix It!"
There is an old saying: "If something works, don't fix it!" There is quite a bit of truth in this old axiom. We are constantly trying to improve on everything; make it last longer or taste better, and by and large this is a good idea; it encourages imagination and creativity. Some things are best left alone, like my Mom's pasta sauce recipe; it is perfect! Sometimes things are best left alone, and should not be tampered with, like my Dad's tools.
When the pilgrims arrived here, they wanted a couple of things; freedom to worship and a non-intrusive government so they could pursue their own success. Those pilgrims weren't looking for a free ride from anybody. Once America established our wonderful Constitution, our citizens were able to pursue wealth and happiness to their hearts content; of course, there is a measure of work involved in that pursuit.
Our President, Barack Obama, said recently that "free market capitalism doesn't work"; I think he must be smoking something other than cigars, if he really believes this.
Here are some examples of free-market capitalism: Henry Ford, Eli Whitney, Thomas Edison, Robert Fulton, Orville and Wilbur Wright, and more recently Bill Gates and Steve Jobs; these folks all did fairly well in a free market economy. Let's name some companies: Sears, Wal-Mart, U.S. Steel, EXXON-MOBIL, McDonald's and Ford Motors; they have done fairly well in a free market economy too. Now, I know somebody will say "look at how many, wealthy people are making money from those companies", and they would be right. Who do you think invests in those companies, and takes great risks with their capital; some are rich people, and some are small investors, people like you and me. Besides making money for their stockholders, these companies also employ hundreds of thousands of people who buy cars, appliances, homes, fuel, clothes and groceries for their families.
America, despite our shortcomings, has the best "standard of living" on this planet. We have been having people standing in line to move here for over two hundred years; that should tell you something. Immigrants came here at the turn of the 20th century with nothing but a dream of living in the "land of opportunity", and whatever skills they brought with them. A good portion of those folks are the rich people in America today; perhaps the President should ask them if free-market capitalism works!
Will everybody get rich in America: probably not. There are NO GUARANTEES of wealth or position in this country, there is only the promise of a chance to try. This system, in this country, is the best place to live on this entire planet, BAR NONE!
I know Mr. Obama loves radical socialist planning, with massive government regulation and control, and sharing the wealth of others with those who haven't become wealthy; you have probably heard the saying "What's mine is mine, and what's yours is mine." This is Barack Obama's "mantra" of re-distribution. He wants to even everything out, so we can all be EQUALLY MISERABLE! I would ask Mr. Obama this question, "If our system doesn't work, then why is it that we are the envy of the world?" Of course, this was before we elected Barack Obama President!
When the pilgrims arrived here, they wanted a couple of things; freedom to worship and a non-intrusive government so they could pursue their own success. Those pilgrims weren't looking for a free ride from anybody. Once America established our wonderful Constitution, our citizens were able to pursue wealth and happiness to their hearts content; of course, there is a measure of work involved in that pursuit.
Our President, Barack Obama, said recently that "free market capitalism doesn't work"; I think he must be smoking something other than cigars, if he really believes this.
Here are some examples of free-market capitalism: Henry Ford, Eli Whitney, Thomas Edison, Robert Fulton, Orville and Wilbur Wright, and more recently Bill Gates and Steve Jobs; these folks all did fairly well in a free market economy. Let's name some companies: Sears, Wal-Mart, U.S. Steel, EXXON-MOBIL, McDonald's and Ford Motors; they have done fairly well in a free market economy too. Now, I know somebody will say "look at how many, wealthy people are making money from those companies", and they would be right. Who do you think invests in those companies, and takes great risks with their capital; some are rich people, and some are small investors, people like you and me. Besides making money for their stockholders, these companies also employ hundreds of thousands of people who buy cars, appliances, homes, fuel, clothes and groceries for their families.
America, despite our shortcomings, has the best "standard of living" on this planet. We have been having people standing in line to move here for over two hundred years; that should tell you something. Immigrants came here at the turn of the 20th century with nothing but a dream of living in the "land of opportunity", and whatever skills they brought with them. A good portion of those folks are the rich people in America today; perhaps the President should ask them if free-market capitalism works!
Will everybody get rich in America: probably not. There are NO GUARANTEES of wealth or position in this country, there is only the promise of a chance to try. This system, in this country, is the best place to live on this entire planet, BAR NONE!
I know Mr. Obama loves radical socialist planning, with massive government regulation and control, and sharing the wealth of others with those who haven't become wealthy; you have probably heard the saying "What's mine is mine, and what's yours is mine." This is Barack Obama's "mantra" of re-distribution. He wants to even everything out, so we can all be EQUALLY MISERABLE! I would ask Mr. Obama this question, "If our system doesn't work, then why is it that we are the envy of the world?" Of course, this was before we elected Barack Obama President!
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
"Prayer and Leadership"
Seventy years ago today, America suffered an unprovoked attack from the Empire of Japan, and we, as a nation and as individuals, would never be the same again. Thousands of innocent Americans died at Pearl Harbor, and the remains of many still rest in that harbor. America heaved a great sigh, and then set to the work of defeating two enemies who were a direct threat to the entire world. We stood arm in arm with Britain and France and Russia in order to restore peace during the greatest conflagration the world has seen to date.
On June 6, 1944, all of our countries launched Operation Overlord, D-Day, and this set in motion the ultimate defeat of NAZI Germany and the Empire of Japan. We were doing God's work, and we thanked Him for His help to victory every day.
Franklin Roosevelt said these words: My fellow Americans: last night when I spoke with you about the fall of Rome, I knew at that moment that troops of the United States and our allies were crossing the Channel in another and greater operation. It has come to pass with success thus far.
And so, in this poignant hour, I ask you to join with me in prayer.
"Almighty God: Our sons, pride of our Nation, this day set upon a mighty endeavor, a struggle to preserve our Republic, our religion, and our civilization, and to set free a suffering humanity.
Lead them straight and true; give strength to their arms, and stoutness to their hearts, steadfastness in their faith.
They will need Thy blessings. Their road will be long and hard. For the enemy is strong. He may hurl back our forces. Success may not come with rushing speed, but we shall return again and again; and we know that by Thy grace, and by the righteousness of our cause, our sons will triumph.
They will be sore tried, by night and by day, without rest until victory is won. The darkness will be rent by noise and flame. Men's souls will be shaken with the violence of war.
For these men are lately drawn from the ways of peace. They fight not for the lust of conquest. They fight to end conquest. They fight to liberate. They fight to let justice arise, and tolerance and good will among all Thy people. They yearn but for the end of battle, for their return to haven of home.
Some will never return. Embrace these Father, and receive them, Thy heroic servants, into Thy kingdom."
Roosevelt went on to say these words: "O Lord give us Faith. Give us Faith in Thee; Faith in our sons; Faith in each other; Faith united in our crusade."
Currently, our President has decided to omit this prayer from the WWII Memorial. I find it an insult not only to Franklin Roosevelt, but to all those men and women who gave so much for America during her greatest trial. For whatever reason, Barack Obama has a problem with the mention of God and prayer in America, and I believe this gives all Americans a reason to give pause and think about our choice of Barack Obama as our President. I don't believe America can do very well without the help of Almighty God; evidently, Mr. Obama sees things differently than I. Ask yourself this question:" Is this the man I want to lead America in the most trying time since World War II?"
On June 6, 1944, all of our countries launched Operation Overlord, D-Day, and this set in motion the ultimate defeat of NAZI Germany and the Empire of Japan. We were doing God's work, and we thanked Him for His help to victory every day.
Franklin Roosevelt said these words: My fellow Americans: last night when I spoke with you about the fall of Rome, I knew at that moment that troops of the United States and our allies were crossing the Channel in another and greater operation. It has come to pass with success thus far.
And so, in this poignant hour, I ask you to join with me in prayer.
"Almighty God: Our sons, pride of our Nation, this day set upon a mighty endeavor, a struggle to preserve our Republic, our religion, and our civilization, and to set free a suffering humanity.
Lead them straight and true; give strength to their arms, and stoutness to their hearts, steadfastness in their faith.
They will need Thy blessings. Their road will be long and hard. For the enemy is strong. He may hurl back our forces. Success may not come with rushing speed, but we shall return again and again; and we know that by Thy grace, and by the righteousness of our cause, our sons will triumph.
They will be sore tried, by night and by day, without rest until victory is won. The darkness will be rent by noise and flame. Men's souls will be shaken with the violence of war.
For these men are lately drawn from the ways of peace. They fight not for the lust of conquest. They fight to end conquest. They fight to liberate. They fight to let justice arise, and tolerance and good will among all Thy people. They yearn but for the end of battle, for their return to haven of home.
Some will never return. Embrace these Father, and receive them, Thy heroic servants, into Thy kingdom."
Roosevelt went on to say these words: "O Lord give us Faith. Give us Faith in Thee; Faith in our sons; Faith in each other; Faith united in our crusade."
Currently, our President has decided to omit this prayer from the WWII Memorial. I find it an insult not only to Franklin Roosevelt, but to all those men and women who gave so much for America during her greatest trial. For whatever reason, Barack Obama has a problem with the mention of God and prayer in America, and I believe this gives all Americans a reason to give pause and think about our choice of Barack Obama as our President. I don't believe America can do very well without the help of Almighty God; evidently, Mr. Obama sees things differently than I. Ask yourself this question:" Is this the man I want to lead America in the most trying time since World War II?"
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
"VACATION AGAIN!!!"
I remember when I was a little boy the anticipation I had for Christmas vacation. School would let out about three days before the "Big Day", and we would not have to go back until the third of January! My Dad got off a half day on Christmas Eve and had to go back to work on the next work day after Christmas, and it was the same way on New Years for him. I guess the most days he would get off were about four, if the holidays fell on week-ends. It was great to be a kid at Christmas; we just had a party at school, went home and had fun for two whole weeks, and didn't have to think about "readin', writin' or arithmetic" the entire time! Dad, unfortunately, had to go back to work while the toys were still under the tree. I asked him once why he couldn't stay home during our vacation, and he said "I have a job to do, and I have an obligation to be there so I can earn money for all you kids and Mom. You guys are depending on me." Dad was very big on taking care of our family, and fulfilling his obligations, but it sure would have been fun having him around a few more days. As I grew older, I understood exactly what my father meant, as I became a father and husband myself; although, I still wish vacations could last a lot longer!
As you all know, Congress is still confused over what to do about our budget and job situation in America. Bills and proposals are flying back and forth like ping-pong balls at a Chinese picnic. Reid is blaming Boehner, and Boehner is blaming Reid; and nobody seems to be finding any cooperation from anyone. Now, this is big government in action! Barack Obama is very upset by this situation, and he has issued strong words to all the parties involved, threatening a delay in the Christmas break so some agreement can be reached; now that is some pretty strong talk, as long as you don't have to actually do it yourself! It is always easier to tell someone to do something you have no plan of doing yourself!
As Christmas is nearing, Barack Obama is planning a 17 day break in Hawaii for himself and his family (it's good to be the king). Our absentee President who runs off to holidays at every occasion is once again running off into the sunset and avoiding his responsibility as Chief Executive. Be it Hawaii or Martha's Vineyard, Barack Obama likes everywhere better than Washington D.C.! Teddy Roosevelt believed to be a good president said that you need to "Walk softly, and carry a big stick." Barack Obama feels like you need to "Walk 18 holes, and carry a small putter".
When I see Barack Obama's attitude toward the office he holds, I'm astounded by his lack of immediacy to America's pressing situations, I don't see a Jack Kennedy or a Ronald Reagan behaving in the manner Obama has adopted, and I fear for America. I believe we need to send a man to Washington who understands how imminent the dangers are to America; not some guy who likes to GOLF!
As you all know, Congress is still confused over what to do about our budget and job situation in America. Bills and proposals are flying back and forth like ping-pong balls at a Chinese picnic. Reid is blaming Boehner, and Boehner is blaming Reid; and nobody seems to be finding any cooperation from anyone. Now, this is big government in action! Barack Obama is very upset by this situation, and he has issued strong words to all the parties involved, threatening a delay in the Christmas break so some agreement can be reached; now that is some pretty strong talk, as long as you don't have to actually do it yourself! It is always easier to tell someone to do something you have no plan of doing yourself!
As Christmas is nearing, Barack Obama is planning a 17 day break in Hawaii for himself and his family (it's good to be the king). Our absentee President who runs off to holidays at every occasion is once again running off into the sunset and avoiding his responsibility as Chief Executive. Be it Hawaii or Martha's Vineyard, Barack Obama likes everywhere better than Washington D.C.! Teddy Roosevelt believed to be a good president said that you need to "Walk softly, and carry a big stick." Barack Obama feels like you need to "Walk 18 holes, and carry a small putter".
When I see Barack Obama's attitude toward the office he holds, I'm astounded by his lack of immediacy to America's pressing situations, I don't see a Jack Kennedy or a Ronald Reagan behaving in the manner Obama has adopted, and I fear for America. I believe we need to send a man to Washington who understands how imminent the dangers are to America; not some guy who likes to GOLF!
Monday, December 5, 2011
"Stocking Stuffer!"
When it comes to shopping, I'm the typical man; I HATE to shop. I don't like going to the mall, or specialty shops or discount houses; and shoe stores are like volunteering for purgatory duty. I mildly enjoy the grocery store, as I always manage to put a few of my favorite snacks into our cart, otherwise shopping isn't my thing. My wife, my daughter and my sister are shopping "gurus", who can spot sales and discounts at 100 meters! At this time of the year, thousands of people flock to malls and department stores all over America.
We are a week passed "Black Friday", a day when folks set alarm clocks to begin their Christmas "hunting trips" early. The figures are now in for that "purchasing event" and they are slightly up from last year. Any rise in spending is good news for our ailing economy. Electronics seem to be the big winner according to the stores; everybody wants a big television or the latest electronic device for Christmas; after all, who wouldn't want to see the "Super Bowl" on a 51" screen!
There was another product that seemed to dominate some of that "Black Friday" spending and some of you might be surprised by what it was; FIREARMS! Yes, my fellow Americans, it was GUNS. The F.B.I. has been flooded with requests for background checks for gun purchases; it seems Americans are arming themselves. Strangely, this is in direct correlation with a DROP IN CRIME in America. Who would've THUNK IT? The more households with guns we have, the fewer the criminals want to enter them; maybe those crooks aren't as dumb as we think they are. I guess I'm a little ahead of the pack on this issue, but I urge the rest of my readers to catch up; armed citizens are BAD FOR CRIMINALS!
Now, I know that people on the left don't agree with me on this issue; and I don't really care. They don't understand that a criminal isn't going to spend $500 on a hand gun; he will get a "black market" weapon for $50 or $75, and then he will mug your grandmother!! I know the Obama administration is anti-gun, because they feel it gives us citizens too much control; kind of the way Mao, Stalin and Hitler felt about guns in public hands.
Now, as I said, I'm not much of a shopper; but I will happily go with my lovely wife to any gun shop she likes to purchase a small caliber hand gun for her personal use; she can even have a "pearl handle" if she likes! So my friends, as Christmas approaches, think about a nice .38 caliber "stocking stuffer" for a loved one. It could be a "bang-up" gift!
(Thanks to my niece Lizzy!)
We are a week passed "Black Friday", a day when folks set alarm clocks to begin their Christmas "hunting trips" early. The figures are now in for that "purchasing event" and they are slightly up from last year. Any rise in spending is good news for our ailing economy. Electronics seem to be the big winner according to the stores; everybody wants a big television or the latest electronic device for Christmas; after all, who wouldn't want to see the "Super Bowl" on a 51" screen!
There was another product that seemed to dominate some of that "Black Friday" spending and some of you might be surprised by what it was; FIREARMS! Yes, my fellow Americans, it was GUNS. The F.B.I. has been flooded with requests for background checks for gun purchases; it seems Americans are arming themselves. Strangely, this is in direct correlation with a DROP IN CRIME in America. Who would've THUNK IT? The more households with guns we have, the fewer the criminals want to enter them; maybe those crooks aren't as dumb as we think they are. I guess I'm a little ahead of the pack on this issue, but I urge the rest of my readers to catch up; armed citizens are BAD FOR CRIMINALS!
Now, I know that people on the left don't agree with me on this issue; and I don't really care. They don't understand that a criminal isn't going to spend $500 on a hand gun; he will get a "black market" weapon for $50 or $75, and then he will mug your grandmother!! I know the Obama administration is anti-gun, because they feel it gives us citizens too much control; kind of the way Mao, Stalin and Hitler felt about guns in public hands.
Now, as I said, I'm not much of a shopper; but I will happily go with my lovely wife to any gun shop she likes to purchase a small caliber hand gun for her personal use; she can even have a "pearl handle" if she likes! So my friends, as Christmas approaches, think about a nice .38 caliber "stocking stuffer" for a loved one. It could be a "bang-up" gift!
(Thanks to my niece Lizzy!)
Friday, December 2, 2011
"A Line In The Sand!"
How far are we allowed to go to protect ourselves and our families? I believe I'm the "first line of defense" in my home. I own several firearms; a hand gun, two rifles and a twelve gauge shot gun; I know how to use all of them. I am also willing to use all of them if the situation warrants their use. Anyone who intrudes into my home may well be left lying on the floor, and leave in a bag. Don't misunderstand me, I have no wish to shoot anybody, but I will protect my household! For generations, America has been a kind of "watchman" for the world, silently walking behind the rest of the world, keeping an eye on those who have questionable ambitions, and keeping them in check. Usually, we don't have to resort to bloodshed, but, at times, the security of America calls for a forcible response to an immediate threat. How much must any nation endure before they can take an action to defend their people? We spent years fighting a "cold war" with the Communists; we only won that war by "out-gunning" them (Thanks, Ron). We had a stalemate in Viet Nam because of failure to use the entire might of the United States arsenal against our enemy (media interference). Our current administration is in the process of "surgically removing" America's military "testicles", because of our WEAK President. I hope America doesn't face any serious threats while Barack Obama is in the Oval Office, or we are truly "screwed".
Unlike America, Israel has just about reached its' limits with Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, the Iranian lunatic. The pursuit of nuclear weapons capability by Iran is moving at virtual light speed, and they are a definite and immediate threat to Israel. This is not a big news flash to anyone who has followed the continued crisis between these two nations. If this is news to any of my readers, please turn off reality T.V. and watch the NEWS!
Yesterday, Israeli Defense Minister, Ehud Barak, said an Iranian preemptive strike is in the realm of possible action by Israel. The prevailing opinion in Israel is that Iran's continued pursuit of nuclear capability is a direct threat to the people of Israel; and I have a tendency to believe this myself. Iran's feigned excuse of seeking "peaceful nuclear power" doesn't ring true, as statements from Ahmadinejad consistently call for the destruction of Israel. The rest of the world seems to be disregarding those threats, and the outcries of the government of Israel. Iran is a ROGUE nation, with bad intentions for Israel, and it seems that the U.N. and the U.S. are willing to hang Israel out to dry. I believe the only thing Iran will understand at this point is some type of military intervention, and no other nation on this planet is willing to step up; therefore I commend Israel as they "draw a line in the sand" to defend their people; I know you have the courage of your convictions!
Unlike America, Israel has just about reached its' limits with Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, the Iranian lunatic. The pursuit of nuclear weapons capability by Iran is moving at virtual light speed, and they are a definite and immediate threat to Israel. This is not a big news flash to anyone who has followed the continued crisis between these two nations. If this is news to any of my readers, please turn off reality T.V. and watch the NEWS!
Yesterday, Israeli Defense Minister, Ehud Barak, said an Iranian preemptive strike is in the realm of possible action by Israel. The prevailing opinion in Israel is that Iran's continued pursuit of nuclear capability is a direct threat to the people of Israel; and I have a tendency to believe this myself. Iran's feigned excuse of seeking "peaceful nuclear power" doesn't ring true, as statements from Ahmadinejad consistently call for the destruction of Israel. The rest of the world seems to be disregarding those threats, and the outcries of the government of Israel. Iran is a ROGUE nation, with bad intentions for Israel, and it seems that the U.N. and the U.S. are willing to hang Israel out to dry. I believe the only thing Iran will understand at this point is some type of military intervention, and no other nation on this planet is willing to step up; therefore I commend Israel as they "draw a line in the sand" to defend their people; I know you have the courage of your convictions!
Thursday, December 1, 2011
"It's Not Just In Cook County!"
Have you ever been pressured into doing something? Perhaps an over-zealous salesman or teacher or coach put you "on the spot" to do or try something you really didn't want to do. Sometimes we submit to pressure out of fear of consequence, or intimidation, and end up later regretting our decisions. Having lived in the Chicago area for many years, I understand pressure from government; the political system in Cook County is infamous for its corruption and legendary stories of vote fraud and voter intimidation. Dead people vote in most Cook County elections, and real threats from an opposition opponent are quickly resolved by the party in power (if you know what I mean). When bribery doesn't work, threats of investigation and veiled blackmail aren't above the area of possibility when dealing with a political opponent; but, all in all, Chicago is still the "City that Works!" even though its wheels are greased with alleged graft and corruption. Voters in the "City" know how they are "supposed to vote".
Even our national elections have had their share of vote fraud and intimidation. I recall vividly those "New Black Panthers" standing outside a Pennsylvania polling place wielding batons and hurling epithets to people as they entered to cast their votes; frightening some into turning away for fear of bodily harm. Oddly, this prosecution was never pursued by the Obama administration. Voter intimidation and illegal influence are very bad things in the election process.
I have just come across an article dealing with the upcoming election for Russian President and other parliament positions. It seems that there has been some "pressure" put upon potential voters to vote for the Kremlin's party. I guess some things never really change, and the ways of the old U.S.S.R. are alive and well in "Mother Russia". I can't say I'm too surprised by this, as I predicted Vladimir Putin's bid for the presidency last year, and it looks like a foregone conclusion. The old KGB Chief doesn't really seem like the flag bearer of a democratic republic to me. He has already started making noises about a confrontation with the United States over missile defense in Eastern Europe. I can't say that I blame him, as Obama's weak defense posture is an easy target and he will likely give in to intimidation.
As the Russian election is being approached, there are stories of vote buying and pressure to stay home, away from the election. Students have alleged they have been "advised" on the proper candidates to vote for to insure funding for their universities. University officials have denied trying to use influence toward the students.
A republic is a difficult form of government to maintain; we have been trying in America for over two-hundred and thirty years. I don't know how the Russian Constitution reads, but if it is at all designed like America's, guard it with all your heart and mind, because there are those who will, willingly try to steal your freedom by twisting its' precepts. I wish all of the Russian people well as they try to maintain a free republic. Please, don't give in to intimidation of any kind or generations will suffer for it!
Even our national elections have had their share of vote fraud and intimidation. I recall vividly those "New Black Panthers" standing outside a Pennsylvania polling place wielding batons and hurling epithets to people as they entered to cast their votes; frightening some into turning away for fear of bodily harm. Oddly, this prosecution was never pursued by the Obama administration. Voter intimidation and illegal influence are very bad things in the election process.
I have just come across an article dealing with the upcoming election for Russian President and other parliament positions. It seems that there has been some "pressure" put upon potential voters to vote for the Kremlin's party. I guess some things never really change, and the ways of the old U.S.S.R. are alive and well in "Mother Russia". I can't say I'm too surprised by this, as I predicted Vladimir Putin's bid for the presidency last year, and it looks like a foregone conclusion. The old KGB Chief doesn't really seem like the flag bearer of a democratic republic to me. He has already started making noises about a confrontation with the United States over missile defense in Eastern Europe. I can't say that I blame him, as Obama's weak defense posture is an easy target and he will likely give in to intimidation.
As the Russian election is being approached, there are stories of vote buying and pressure to stay home, away from the election. Students have alleged they have been "advised" on the proper candidates to vote for to insure funding for their universities. University officials have denied trying to use influence toward the students.
A republic is a difficult form of government to maintain; we have been trying in America for over two-hundred and thirty years. I don't know how the Russian Constitution reads, but if it is at all designed like America's, guard it with all your heart and mind, because there are those who will, willingly try to steal your freedom by twisting its' precepts. I wish all of the Russian people well as they try to maintain a free republic. Please, don't give in to intimidation of any kind or generations will suffer for it!
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