Race again.

Hey all, another day gone by. The headline news deals with another racial remark made by one of the Presidential candidates in Missouri. Let’s move to substantive arguments not political games.
All the cable news networks have talked about how gas prices have dropped over the last two weeks. Thankfully this helps relieve some of the pressure for the average American. Drilling doesn’t seem to be in the minds of Congress any longer. It’s funny how much they claim to do for us, and yet they only talk not act.
Congress passed a Resolution asking for the forgiveness of the families of those who were slaves at the start of our history. I agree this was a just move, but why did it take this long for it to occur? Why does race continue to be an issue in this political race? Senator Obama continues to utilize racial remarks to generate resentment among possible voters.
In his tour through Missouri Barack Obama made some remarks responding to an add posted by the McCain campaign. The add depicts Barack as more of a celebrity rather than a leader. Senator Obama answered by using the race card once again. Reuters in an article posted today by John Whitesides quoted the Senator as saying
"'He's not patriotic enough. He's got a funny name. He doesn't look like all the presidents on the dollar bills,'" How does acting like a victim help his cause?
I am tired of race getting used to promote political agenda’s. I have never heard Senator McCain attack Obama based on his race, name, or heritage. Who cares what his skin color is. The point of the add is that Obama has achieved quite a bit without really having much of a track record at all. I disagree that people will care about his skin tone, or even about his name. People are afraid to vote for him do to his associations, track record in the Senate small as it is, and how he only seems to offer solutions which will hurt more than help.
Do you care about Senator Obama’s race? Do you care that he isn’t white like the past Presidents? Will this affect how you vote in November? If Senator Obama had the principles, character, and record that correspond with my values I would vote for him even if he was green. He doesn’t share my morals or political views so I wouldn’t vote for him regardless if his name was John Smith and was Irish. James.

American symbols?

Hey all, I hope your day is going well. Yesterday I posed the question about how much intrusion from the government would take. Today I am wondering how patience you are with governmental entities who are bothered with symbols of our own historical progress, but they are too keen to protect others emblems.
Many individuals have debated over how appropriate it is to have a cross on a Court room wall. A long struggle between parties ensued about the huge Ten Commandments hanging on the wall at the Georgia State Legislature. John Kerry got in trouble for complaining about Confederate flags that people place on their vehicles. People don’t complain if a sign commemorating Malcolm X Black Panther ways, encouraging illegal immigration, global warming, or even affirmative action.
I raise the issue do to a ruling rendered by the commissioners in Leesburg, Florida. The local 6 channel reported how the commissioners last month had complained that the 65 foot American flag hanging at the Cecil Clark Chevrolet dealership. The story quotes the city manager Jay Evans as saying "We love the American
Flag and we are patriotic but there are standards that are in place now and we need to talk about whether or not -- in the future -- those are the right
Standards to have." I wonder how much do standards would be questioned if it was a CAIR flag instead?
I understand that all cities have laws they need to enforce. Groups can’t be given special treatment for any reason what so ever logic now tells us. I am just tired of American symbol offending people, but someone who supports the breaking of the laws of this country isn’t even scrutinized. My only problem with the story was the American flag wasn’t 70 feet instead of 65. If you don’t like Old Glory I say go to North Korea, Iran, Cuba, Venezuela, or any regime. Let me know how that goes.
Are you tired of people who aren’t comfortable supporting America? Do you think we should be able to display symbols like the Ten Commandments from the State Legislature without wondering who will get offended next? James.

Global warming in the classroom?

Hey all, it’s another scorching day in Texas. I wonder if I would appreciate the heat more if I had gotten taught more about climate change, global warming, increase Earth heat moment, or whatever it’s called now days. Good job Governator.
State legislatures along with judicial members in all levels seem to urge deciding what our future is. They will promote their political agendas before they’ll do what’s best for their constituent’s, or even interpret the document they swore to up held. The latest example occurred in the radical state of California. Their state legislature attempted to pass a bill known as SB 908 as reported in the Mercury News today. This bill was another effort to indoctrinate children with the idea that we only have limited resources, and that our planet will go to hell in a hand basket. The article explains how school districts where going to teach climate change as a subject. More propaganda for the wacky environmentalists. Thankfully Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger vetoed the measure. The article quotes him as saying
"I continue to believe that the state should refrain from being overly prescriptive in specific school curriculum, beyond establishing rigorous academic
Standards.”
I understand that the health of our planet is vital for human survival. Also, it’s clear based on the weather that the climate is changing. The climate has changed for thousands of years though. The planet Earth heats up when solar flairs are closer and it cools down when an ice age arrives. Children shouldn’t be forced to think that the only reason the AC needs to be cranked up is do to our bad habits. If I want to learn the facts about weather patterns I can look it up myself. I definitely don’t need a government ran agency to shove it down my throat or that of my kids when I have a family.
Do you care how far the government is trying to advertise their agendas? Do you think that more government is the answer? James.

Barack's absence.

Hey all, another weekend gone by. I want to address a critical issue when it comes to the campaign coverage. Does Barrack Obama care for anyone other than himself?
I have addressed how important a candidate’s character along with their principles and track record matter to me. If they are great politicians but have a questionable character, then I can’t trust them to represent my best interest. Barrack Obama made a grave error by choosing not to visit the troops in Berlin. I wonder if he only cares about the possibility that he might be the most powerful man in the world one day. God forbid!
In an article appearing in Reuters on July 24 a spoke person for Obama’s campaign responded to the criticism about his non visit at the Landstuhl treatment center. One of his National Security advisors Maj. General Scott Gration said
"Senator Obama had hoped to and had every intention of visiting our troops to express his appreciation and gratitude for their service to our country," He further said "Senator Obama did not want to have a trip to see our wounded warriors perceived as a campaign event when his visit was to show his appreciation for our
troops and decided instead not to go," The article highlights how the only specification the Pentagon had made to Obama’s campaign was to make sure if he visited the hospital as a Senator not as a candidate which is he originally traveled abroad along with several other politicians.
I think it’s convenient to excuse his visit by not wanting to draw attention to him if he had gone. He has repeatedly made a mockery of our armed forces. The lack of a flag pin on his lapel, his statements disqualifying the success of the surge, and now only extending his hand to troops only when the cameras were on. I don’t think anyone would have complained about his intentions if he would have spoken to the troops instead of a giant crowd in Berlin. If anyone did question his motives he could have reassured them how patriotism comes before political expediency. At last, he decided for the only option with the greatest reward for himself not the people he one day may represent.
Are you concern about his lack of ability to do what is right for someone other than himself? Are you bothered how different he seems when the cameras aren’t on? I hope that we don’t have a President who only responds to those pulling his strings. James.

Official pets.

Hey all, I know that many politically charged headlines have surfaced in the past weeks. I would like to address a lighter topic though. Animals have often provided an aspect of innocence to those who hold office. How important does the heart of a person matter in politics?
The American political arena is usually characterized as intense similar to the now known mud slinging style. Individuals attacking each others characters often make the headlines of most news casts. Politician’s pets have helped personify each individual as more like me and you as opposed to that of an elitist.
I would like to highlight some of these individuals. The most famous instance happened when Richard Nixon used the dogs Checkers to depict himself as one who would do anything for his daughter. He managed to paint a picture that captured many hearts. Another grandiose moment occurred when a picture got taken of Caroline Kennedy in her riding gear standing firm next to her pony Macaroni as described in a Denver Post article from December 2007. The idea that a member of the Camelot family stood next to her favorite pony just reassured people how powerful the Kennedy family really was. In another instance, Buddy the dog might have saved Bill Clinton’s political image.
Bill Clinton’s presidency was full of scandals. The most famous of these includes the Lewinsky debacle. He is famous for shrinking the military budget, signing NAFTA, not taking Osama from the Saudi’s, and many failed policies. He did gain some notoriety even throughout the Lewinsky scandal through Buddy the dog. Buddy stood out as a sweet member of the Clinton family. Many jokes were made using him as a punch line. When he died as CNN reports it many felt sorry since Buddy got struck by a moving vehicle. Everyone cared for that dog no matter their political views, or how they regard former President Clinton.
Finally in 2004 John Kerry’s anecdote about saving a hamster from the bottom of a river made it a less credible Presidential campaign for him. His daughters recounted a story in which Senator Kerry rescued their precious hamster whose cage had fallen from their boat. Many still believe that this helped punch a final hole sending his campaign to sink during the election in 2004. Especially since it seemed like he tried to appeal to voters with this heroic effort.
I have had to retire my guide dog that I have had the honor of working with for three years. It broke my heart to make the decision to no longer allow her to use her God given gift of helping me travel. I understand how much animals impact a person who becomes attached to one. They can indicate how much kindness a person has in their character. Does tale’s like the Kerry hamster impact how you normally vote in an election? How a person deals with their pets indicate anything about their character to you especially when their in a position of power. If any of the current Presidential candidates demonstrated how much they loved their pets would it appeal to you? Senator McCain has several pets, but Senator Obama doesn’t have any. James.

Guilty?

Hey all, the Middle East sure has captures most of the headline news today. I want to address the trial of an individual captured fighting against the free world.
Today marks the first day in the trial of Salim Ahmed Hamdan in the military base in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. Hamdan is accused of participating in terrorist activities in 2001. He use to be the personal driver and mechanic for Osama bin Laden. According to a story published in Reuters reports that his defense attorneys say he was never a terrorist. Also, they claim he was simply trying to make a living when he chauffeured the Al Qaeda leader. Their biggest defense states that most of the evidence compiled against Hamdan occurred through the torturous techniques imposed on him by interrogators. The story describes the members of the jury as 13 military officers who will be dwindled down to 5 who will decide his future.
It’s just too bad that a guy who coveted a man who swore to kill all Americans and the American way of life got treated harshly. I guess he was expecting a trip to Universal Studios instead. I’m sorry Mr. Hamdan that you lived in a prison with other scum bags that were captured in the battle field. I wish that he would have received the treatment of shoot first ask later instead.
Why are we criticize for using necessary means for interrogation, but when one of our soldiers gets manhandled well too bad for them. Some people even think that they wouldn’t treat us so harshly if we received their fighters kindly. I am tired of stupid rules that interfere with the progress the military can make in the battle field. If Mr. Hamdan didn’t want to be sent to a prison that provides him with 3 square meals along with accommodating him with religious materials he should have stayed in Yemen. You don’t really think that he was trusted with any important information about Al qaeda since he only drove bin Laden around do you? I hope they were able to squeeze all the vital information out of him. I don’t care for anymore innocent people dying for a cause that doesn’t spare anyone who doesn’t submit to their agenda. I hope he is stuck with Big Bubba for the rest of his natural life. I wonder how much he will like sharing a bunk with someone who doesn’t have to play by any rules.
I don’t advocate for a military without rules, but I do wish that human rights groups would stop sticking their noses in the wrong place. American forces have to deal with an enemy without uniform, character, or any willingness to stop. I say if they don’t want more interrogations to happen, if they don’t want for the scum bags to answer necessary questions, and then kill all the terrorists. Those who try to kill the innocent, demoralize the weak, and conquer those who are different from them don’t deserve a second chance. All I have to say about that is soldier continue to kick Al Qaeda’s butt. James.

Let's drill.

Hey all, prices continue to rise at the gas pump. The President has taken the right approach, but Congress still remains unmoved.
It’s been established through polls and surveys that most Americans now believe that exploring our own oil resources will eliminate our dependency of oil from countries like Saudi Arabia. Most OPEC leading countries aren’t sympathetic when petroleum prices are through the roof as long as their pockets are filled with dollars. President Bush took the proper step by lifting an executive ban that had been placed on off shore drilling sites. Good job President Bush. I think that if we use our resources of oil and natural gas it would get oil prices to drop, our economy would receive a much needed boost, the dollar would regain some value, and some jobs would be created based on the demand of the industry. Politicians in Congress have divided themselves along ideological lines to see who can either stand up to those huge oil companies, or those who think we’ll be broke if we remain at the mercy of OPEC.
The President said “This means the
only thing standing between the American people and these vast oil resources is action by the U.S. Congress,” as reported on an article by Daniel Whitten. I hope that Congress feels the pressure to do the right thing. It seems like people are complaining, but they aren’t doing anything about it. People in Congress need to know who they are representing. They can’t impose their own agenda’s and sacrifice the future of this country.
Both of the major Presidential candidates responded to the President’s actions. Whitten reports how Bill Burton a spoke person in Senator Obama’s campaign reacted to the news. He said
``If offshore drilling would provide short-term relief at the pump or a long-term strategy for energy independence, it would be worthy of our consideration,
regardless of the risks. But most experts, even within the Bush administration, concede it would do neither.” I thought we could use the time we used our own oil to develop other sources of energy not crush the economy even further. Senator McCain reiterated his position of allowing off shore drilling at home. Well, I guess we know who cares more about part of the economy.
Do you care for drilling at home, or are you more worried about Winnie de Poo loosing his habitat? Do you think that drilling at home is a good short or long term answer? James.

Salute.

Hey all, I will keep this post brief. It’s Friday time to recognize some of the great individuals who are part of our society.
I would like to thank those men and women who served during the Vietnam War. I know from every historical document available that those at home didn’t welcome you back home kindly. I don’t care about politics if you serve my country. Thank you for your service during a difficult time culturally, socially, and politically. I know media outlets influenced the end result of the conflict even more so than the brave actions of those who served. I now say to you welcome home soldier, and please let me serve you if I am able to do so.
If you have someone you would like to recognize please leave a comment. I plan every Friday to highlight a particular group or individual who stands out for obvious reasons. James.

Iran taunts the rest of the world.

Hey all, international news sure captured the headlines today. I want to specifically address the Iranian attempt at daring any country to attack it. I wonder which Presidential candidate would make America safer in case Ahmadinejad woke up on the wrong side of the bed.
Yesterday using their state censored television Iran reportedly launched nine missiles. It was just a test supposedly in case Israel dared attacking Iran, or even if Uncle Sam told Ahmadinejad to take a long swim in the Persian Gulf. In an article by Allan Cowell from the Associated Press Iran’s 9 missiles included an improved version of the Shahad-3. This missile has a range of up to 1,250 miles according to the Iranian Revolutionary Guard quote in the article. It might just be a “reported” incident, but the idea that Iran has enough guts to launch 9 missiles worries me. If they are willing to test long range missiles for no reason as some argue why show the whole world their capabilities? I guess the nuclear bomb is just one of Ahmadinejad toys he likes to play with? Wake up. If Iran isn’t dealt with properly soon, then we might just be Ahmadinejad’s play ground.
It’s important to know how the future leaders of the United States reacted to Iran’s taunting. Senator Obama calls for more economic sanctions along with tougher diplomatic tactics as reported today by the Associated Press. I guess telling Iran to stop it and asking them to stop being naughty will surely end all possible conflicts. Senator McCain reacted by saying “"Working with our European and regional allies is the best way to meet the threat posed by Iran, not unilateral concessions that undermine multilateral
diplomacy," McCain called for a missile shield in Europe along with the deployment of some troops to strategic countries like Poland.
I completely agree with Senator McCain on this issue. Diplomacy should always get exploited to its fullest potential, and the military shouldn’t get used until it’s necessary to do so. Innocent lives can’t get lost do to a rash political decision. I don’t agree that talking to Iran will decrease their willingness to strike Israel or even America. Economic sanctions hurt the innocent people of Iran more than the government as they are the one’s who don’t get aid from other countries. They are the ones who suffer the harsh laws imposed by their governments. We can’t sit back take it easy and only react after it’s too late. If Russia was almost willing to blow us to pieces in the Cold War Iran might be more willing to do the job themselves. How do you feel about Iran’s launching? Does the reaction of Obama or McCain affect your thoughts about the future of this country? All I have to say is God Bless America. James.

War of words.

Hey all, I want to rehash some old news. In previous posts both Presidential candidates’ qualifications have been addressed. Also, each candidate’s weakness has gotten exposed. I would like to address an idiotic comment made by a former military leader.
In 2004 many critics remarked about President’s Bush military record. Senator John Kerry was revered for his service during the Vietnam conflict. I thank Senator Kerry for his service, but his military record makes him admirable not more politically qualified to be President. Dan Rather lost his job as the anchor as CBS evening news as a result of the forgery of President Bush’s National Guard papers. Many Democrats considered Kerry more qualified since he had served his country actively. Man, they changed their minds quickly.
General Wesley Clark did an interview on Face the Nation. He was asked about how he felt regarding John McCain’s military record since it often comes up in political circles. General Clark said “He has been a voice on the Senate Armed Services Committee. And he has traveled all over the world. But he hasn't held executive responsibility. That large
squadron in the Navy that he commanded — that wasn't a wartime squadron,”He also added
“I don’t think getting in a fighter plane and getting shot down is a qualification to become president.” Really I guess he is qualified to make that comment though?
General Wesley Clark has some logic to his statement, but his reasoning makes no sense. Politically I have a few disagreements with Senator McCain. Some of his policies aren’t consistent, but I think his military record makes him more experienced when it comes to national security. He served his country valiantly without any regard to his own well being. If Senator McCain commitment to his country doesn’t make him qualified as an individual for President. I want to know what makes Senator Obama eligible for the White House. Senator Obama started as a community activist which is not as dangerous as the jungle in Vietnam. Senator McCain sat in a prisoners of war camp and didn’t leave early even though his Dad was an important man in the military. Senator Obama at that time hung out with former Weather man Bill Airs.
Why does political expediency seem so comforting to some people. I know that politically both candidates are unpredictable especially when it comes to domestic issues. I would rather have a man who has the cajones to stand up to Iran, fight terrorists, and not one who will do what is right strictly to please his party. I thank General Clark for his service, but he should keep his mouth shut. Although Obama has stayed clear from this comment: Clark clearly reflects his party’s doctrine. Does John McCain’s record matter to you? How much does his brave service impact your chances for you to vote for him? James.

Our and Uncle Sam's day.

Hey all, I want to dedicate my next two posts in celebration of Independence Day. Many individuals have contributed to the development of America as a nation. Let’s thank them all.
America has a rich history based on the struggles that we have overcome as a nation. Our society is comprised of individuals from all over the world. This shows how maintaining our culture has enhanced our nation’s diversity. Many individuals in numerous ways have contributed their lives, intellect, and ideas in order to sustain such a wonderful country.
I want to thank every soldier who has ever served in the United States armed forces. Thank you for dedicating your time, valor, loyalty, and even lives so Old Glory can continue to wave. I salute you now and always.
I want to say how lucky I feel to live in a country with such an extraordinary founding document. The Founding Fathers made it possible for us to enjoy a free and joyous life. Their words changed what a democratic government was.
I want to thank any emergency responder who has help keep all citizens safe. Thank you to all Americans that help make this country what it is. Lastly, I want to thank God for blessing everyone who calls America home. I want to thank God for giving me the chance of pursuing my dreams, and I know that no matter what my political views are I won’t get killed for expressing them based on where I live. I hope everyone has a wonderful, blessed, and enjoyable weekend. James.

Election trouble in the dark continent.

Hey all, often most news coverage in America revolves around domestic issues, or if it’s coverage of international news most of it deals with the negative coverage of the war on terror. I want to know why issues aren’t regarding Africa even discussed.
Zimbabwe just held its most current election. This country has struggled through a cycle of violence for a long time. Reports last month starting surfacing about attacks on individuals who had enough guts to vote against Robert Mugabe. Mugabe a self proclaimed hero has ruled over Zimbabwe since 1987 according to an article published by the BBC. People were targeted if they decided to vote against Mr. Mugabe during the run off election. The candidate who had to back down from being part of the ballot Morgan Tsvangirai after accepting defeat based on not having the opportunity to have his name on the ballot said "We in the MDC have resolved that we will no longer participate in this violent,
Illegitimate ... sham of an election process.”
I find it sad for individuals not to have the chance who their government officials are. One of my concerns also derives from the individuals who control all of the resources available in countries like Zimbabwe. The government of Zimbabwe in their home page states that 30 deposits of various minerals exist throughout the numerous regions of Zimbabwe. Also, their close proximity to other naturally rich countries makes them a great trading ally. My biggest concern is that these countries are highly neglected, and this can potentially create a national security problem for the United States. Somalia another African country already proved this point once. The idea some individuals of attacking the West as a way of compensating for most Zimbabwean’s impoverish state could be fatal. Also, it’s difficult to reach out to many African natives as some organizations like the UN only threaten sanctions against violent dictators without really doing anything about it like Sudan.
Do you believe that establishing a more democratic Africa would benefit us? Should we care about events like the Zimbabwe election since many already chastise America as practicing “big brother” policies? James.