Saturday, December 30, 2006

Jesus or Buddha?


The eyes of humanity will truly be opened when it remembers the dying words of Jesus Christ “forgive them father, for they know not what they do”.

Rather you believe in God, a higher power, Buddha, science or your inner self the truth of the matter is that men are a far ways from being socially or intellectually evolved.

We murder each other over our man made values. Such as religion, statues, faith, land, power, wealth, and money. All values which in the end will have no worth.

Thursday, December 28, 2006

The Price of Gas


The Price of Gas

I find it ironic that now after the Congressional elections the price of gas is going right back up. Damn “blue-eyed devils” in charge of the oil companies in cahoots with George W. Bush. [God bless freedon of speech].

Corporations today seem to have no regard for the common good. Why do the CEO’s find it necessary to drive these exorbitant profits draining the pockets of people needing that money for other things. (That’s a statement, not a question).

All you rich folk will say there aren’t many people in that boat, well I sure as hell am.

If I met the President of Exxon I would slap him across the face!

Economic Divide in America

Lets remember all the littlle boys and girls that Santa forgot this holiday season.

Thursday, December 21, 2006

Marines Charged in Haditha Case



CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. (AP) -- Eight Marines were charged Thursday in the killings of 24 Iraqi civilians last year during a bloody, door-to-door sweep in the town of Haditha that came after one of their comrades was killed by a roadside bomb.

In the biggest U.S. criminal case involving civilian deaths to come out of the Iraq war, four of the Marines -- all enlisted men -- were charged with unpremeditated murder.

The other four were officers who were not there during the killings but were accused of failures in investigating and reporting the deaths.

The most serious charges were brought against Staff Sgt. Frank Wuterich, a 26-year-old squad leader accused of murdering 12 civilians and ordering the murders of six more inside a house cleared by his squad. He was accused of telling his men to "shoot first and ask questions later," according to court papers released by his attorney.

The highest-ranking defendant was Lt. Col. Jeffrey Chessani, 42. He was accused of failing to obey an order or regulation, encompassing dereliction of duty.

At a news conference to announce the charges, military officials would not say what they believe prompted the killings. But investigators have raised the possibility that the men went on a rampage in a fury over the roadside bombing that killed Lance Cpl. Miguel Terrazas of El Paso, Texas, and wounded two other Marines.

Defense attorneys have disputed that, saying their clients were doing what they had been trained to do: responding to a perceived threat with legitimate force.
Terrazas' father denounced the charges, saying his son was murdered by insurgents. "What they are doing to our troops ...it's just wrong," Martin Terrazas said in Texas. "I feel for their families. They are in my prayers."

Wuterich and two comrades charged with murder could get life in prison. The military is not seeking the death penalty. The other men face shorter prison sentences.
The Marine Corps initially reported that 15 Iraqis died in a roadside bomb blast and that Marines killed eight insurgents in an ensuing firefight. That account was widely discredited, and later reports put the number of dead Iraqis at 24.

A criminal probe was launched after Time magazine reported in March, citing survivor accounts and human rights groups, that innocent people were killed.

Lt. Gen. James Mattis, commanding general of the Marine Corps Central Command, said Thursday that the Corps' initial news release, which stated that the civilians in Haditha had been killed by an improvised explosive device, was incorrect.

"We now know with certainty that the press release was incorrect, and that none of the civilians were killed by the IED explosion," Mattis said.
As word spread that charges were imminent, some Iraqis said Thursday that American troops should face justice in Iraq.

"They committed a horrible crime against innocents," Naji al-Ani, a 36-year-old laborer, said by telephone from Haditha.

Other residents of Haditha agreed.
"Are they terrorists or are they fighting terrorism?" said Jamal al-Obaidi, a 40-year-old teacher. "The trial is not fair
because it is taking place in America. Executing them is the minimum penalty."
Besides Wuterich, Sgt. Sanick P. Dela Cruz, 24, was accused of the unpremeditated murders of five people and making a false statement. Lance Cpl. Justin Sharratt, 22, of Carbondale, Pa., was charged with the unpremeditated murder of three Iraqis. Lance Cpl. Stephen Tatum, 25, of Edmond, Okla., was accused of the unpremeditated murders of two Iraqis, negligent homicide of four Iraqis and assault.

The other officers charged were 1st Lt. Andrew Grayson, 25, Capt. Lucas McConnell, 31, and Capt. Randy Stone, 34, a military attorney.

The men are not being locked up for now because they are unlikely to flee and are not a danger to themselves or others, said Col. Stewart Navarre, a Corps spokesman.
In Meriden, Conn., Frank Wuterich's father, Dave, said his son was out Christmas shopping. The father said family members believe his son's version of events.

"He says they followed the rules of engagement," Dave Wuterich said. "They were taking small arms fire. They did what they had to do."

Thursday, December 07, 2006

We need Clinton back in the West Wing




Thursday, December 07, 2006
Hillary leads the presidential pack
from Alexander Mooney-->

WASHINGTON (CNN) -- A new poll shows Democrats favor Sen. Hillary Clinton, D-New York, as their presidential candidate for the 2008 election. The survey was conducted by the Marist Poll for WNBC-TV in New York.

Question: "If the 2008 Democratic presidential primary were held today, whom would you support if the candidates are:

Clinton: 33%
Edwards: 14%
Gore: 13%
Obama: 12%
Kerry: 5%
Biden: 3%
Undecided: 16%

Sample Size: 327 DemocratsMargin of error: +/-4.5%Polling Dates November 27 -- December 3, 2006

Comments: This poll is clearly baloney. Clinton will be the next President. Kerry & Edwards should not even be considered, they blew thier shot big. I will protest the DEM Convention if Kerry or Edwards are even options.

Saturday, December 02, 2006

The Next President (s)

The Democratic Party has fallen into a routine of putting up weak candidates. I wonder if the leaders of the party in Florida and D.C. are being paid by the GOP to choose such candidates as John Kerry and Jim Davis.

Everyone in Florida could have told you Charlie Crist was going to beat Jim Davis from the start ,as member of the DEMS I am frustrated that we continue to waist our time & money on such campaigns.

Kerry & Davis were weak on the issues, that took stances on nothing, and did nothing significant in there time in Washington.

There are now 2 politicians that have records and statements on what they believe.

We need to run candidates like them.

Hilary R. Clinton and Barrack Obama.

Thursday, November 30, 2006

Iraq is Over, Mr. President.


A Declaration of (Semi-Autonomous) Independence (Sort Of)
rightwingnuthouse.com
November 9, 2006

"The firing of Rumsfeld is a harbinger. The President stood before the American people less than two weeks ago and assured us that the Secretary of Defense would be there when he left office. How can we now believe him when he says that he is committed to further efforts to bring about a tolerable conclusion to our mission in Iraq?... If he has already decided to leave Iraq short of any outcome that could be considered advantageous to American interests, then every day that passes, every life lost, is a wasted effort in a losing cause and he should bring our people home now. "

Let’s just end this debacled War in Iraq today. The War was unjustified in the first place, the people of Iraq are rebelling against our occupation. Therefore in my eyes there is absolutely ZERO reasons for a single USA troop to remain in the free and sovereign country of Iraq.

Saddam Hussein is gone. That is a positive note to end this war.

And what next? Take the $90 Billion that would have been spent in Iraq just next year alone put it into Social Security, and creating a National Healthcare Program not just for seniors, but for all Americans (Hint at the future agenda of Checks & Balances).

"Whats up my Nigga"

Consigning the 'N' Word to Personal History

"As some African-American leaders call for a boycott of the racial epithet known as the 'N' word, Pendarvis Harshaw of Youth Radio starts a campaign of his own. (NPR)"

Discussion is open on the use of the “N” word. I never have and dislike hearing my brothers use it. I see a time of blacks moving into power in the United States. What purpose for advancing our people will be served by having the next generation of CEO’s referring to one another as “niggas”?

This is a habit of the African American community that should be shed, in my humble opinion.

deaf Students want a “say”

"In his first interview since student protests locked down the nation's only college for the deaf and hearing-impaired, the outgoing president of Gallaudet University decried the "divisive" tone of the demonstrations, and expressed disappointment at the outcome.

"It seemed to be against something instead of a protest for a reason or a cause," I. King Jordan said Wednesday. "It was against an individual, and that's why it was so divisive."
The protests ended with Gallaudet's decision to nullify the appointment of Jane Fernandes as the school's next president.

Among the students' complaints: Jordan groomed Fernandes as his successor, making the selection process less than open.
Jordan said he disagrees with that view.

"I'm very proud that I was her mentor," Jordan said. "She was an outstanding prospect and she was very highly qualified to be a president. I regret she wasn't given the chance."
In a wide-ranging discussion led by Neal Conan, Jordan also discussed his legacy as the first deaf president of the institution and touched on issues facing the deaf community today, including technological advancements such as cochlear implants and digital hearing aids."

NPR Reports:
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=6551118

Wednesday, November 29, 2006

Christians & Global Warming


Checks & Balances Blog has recently joined Christian Bloggers. We are happy to be in the mix.

The question now is if Christians are emphatic about being political involved, what issues they should focus upon. I do not believe the Christian communities’ political interest lies in being involved in personal & private health matters such the case of Terro Schiavo.

Our interest and the integrity of our faith would be best served by taking up Global Warming. One cannot ignore that God placed man on Earth to take care of what he created. Adam placed in the Garden of Eden was to be a steward of and have dominion over the planet.

Please notice the simplicity of this illustration. Adam was placed in a garden where it was God’s intention for man to reside for eternity.

What do I mean by “integrity of our faith”. Churches walk a thin line when getting involved in politics. And when many yes Churches teamed up to attempt to prevent a husband, Michale Schaivo, from making the health decisions for his wife a line was crossed the Church should have gotten involved with. I specifically write of this matter because many churches were involved and the U.S. Congress wrongly moved to interfere. It must never be forgotten.

There however is no wrong to be found in a clear mission given by God, of being a steward of the earth.

God, the creator did not call for the destruction of his beloved Earth by men.

There is a tangible force pressuring us Christians to not buy this global warming talk. In the United States of America there has been a tidal wave of capitalists ideas that hold that the making of profits is more important that such things as fair market pricing and sustainable development. Just look at the Oil Industry.

Such capitalistic vies I cannot support. A balance must be found. Blindly developing, seeking growth and maximizing profits with no ‘moral control’ are not the Christian way.

Just my humble opinion.

Wednesday, November 22, 2006

ELECTION FRAUD IN SARASOTA 2006

Correction! The Sarasota Election was certified on Monday. Time for a revolt!

I find it ethically and legally troubling if in fact the 18,000 under votes in Sarasota County-Florida were (by a reasonable majority) Democratic votes.

I have refrained from posting and even removed comments on this blog that alluded to baseless left wing conspiracy theories in regards to this specific election, however it seems there is empirical justification to not only question this election but: to scrutinize Election Supervisor Kathy Dent, investigate the source code of all Sarasota County voting machines, and investigate possible election fraud coordinated by the campaign of Vern Buchanan.

If the numbers show these under votes belonged to the Democrats certification of this election must be halted. How can the State of Florida, the Courts, and the Supervisor of Elections allow for such Electoral debauchery to occur?

Kathy Dent has stated publicly that “if a voter felt there was a problem with there vote they should have spoken then”. This is absurd when the issue at hand is technological, source code, tabulating, and programming. If it is true that this voting technology that was rapidly sold to the voting public in which Kathy Dent supports and Jeb Bush supports.

If this technology is so truly more efficient then why can’t all the voters (Republican & Democrat) see an independently verified audit before this election between Christine Jennings and Vern Buchanan is certified?

The owners of these voting machines say their source code is trade secret. Which means companies within the USA are profiteering from the election process which breeds corruption and tampering.

I see it like this; voting machine source code belongs to the People.

Kathy Dent & Jeb Bush there is no faith in these electronic voting systems. Lets bring back paper.

Orlando Sentinel, November 22, 2006
ELECTION 2006: SARASOTA RECOUNT
Analysis: Ballots favored Dems


Sarasota's 'undervotes' were examined in 5 state races.

Jim StrattonSentinel Staff WriterNovember 22, 2006

The group of nearly 18,000 voters that registered no choice in Sarasota's disputed congressional election solidly backed Democratic candidates in all five of Florida's statewide races, an Orlando Sentinel analysis of ballot data shows.Among these voters, even the weakest Democrat -- agriculture-commissioner candidate Eric Copeland -- outpaced a much-better-known Republican incumbent by 551 votes.The trend, which continues up the ticket to the race for governor and U.S. Senate, suggests that if votes were truly cast and lost -- as Democrat Christine Jennings maintains -- they were votes that likely cost her the congressional election.Republican Vern Buchanan's 369-vote victory was certified by state officials Monday. His camp says that, although people may have skipped the race -- intentionally or not -- there is no evidence that votes went missing.But the results of the Sentinel analysis, two experts said, warrant additional investigation."Wow," University of Virginia political analyst Larry Sabato said. "That's very suggestive -- I'd even say strongly suggestive -- that if there had been votes recorded, she [Jennings] would have won that House seat."David Dill, an electronic-voting expert at Stanford University, put it this way: "It seems to establish with certainty that more Democrats are represented in those undervoted ballots."The Sentinel reviewed records of 17,846 touch-screen ballots that included no vote in the tightly contested 13th District congressional race to determine whom voters selected in other major races.The analysis of the so-called "undervotes" examined the races for U.S. Senate, governor, attorney general, chief financial officer and agriculture commissioner.The results showed that the undervoted ballots skewed Democratic in all of those races, even in the three races in which the county as a whole went Republican.In the governor's race, for example, Republican Charlie Crist won handily in Sarasota, easily beating Democrat Jim Davis. But on the undervoted ballots, Davis finished ahead by almost 7 percentage points.In the agriculture commissioner's race, Republican Charles Bronson beat Copeland by a double-digit margin among all voters. But on the undervoted ballots, Copeland won by about 3 percentage points.Some questions remainThe analysis does not -- and cannot -- reveal why no congressional choice was recorded on the ballots. It also cannot determine which candidate any single voter might have selected had he or she made a choice.But the strong performance of other Democrats indicates Jennings would have found a sizable number of supporters within the group."If votes were actually lost," Dill said, "it appears those votes would have favored the Democrat."About 15 percent of ballots cast on Sarasota's touch-screen machines registered no choice in the bitterly fought congressional race. That percentage was about six times greater than the undervote in the rest of the House district, which spreads into four other counties.Since Election Day, dozens -- if not hundreds -- of voters have reported problems at the polls. Some say their vote for Jennings never registered after they touched her name. Others say they never saw the congressional race on the machine's screen.The Jennings campaign argues that only a machine malfunction can account for the high number of undervotes in the congressional race.Her experts claim that because Jennings won in Sarasota by a 52 percent-to-47 percent margin -- the only county she carried -- she would have picked up the bulk of any votes that were lost. Those votes, they say, would have been enough to defeat Buchanan.On Monday, Jennings filed a lawsuit in Tallahassee seeking to reverse the results or hold a new election.Buchanan's camp says that undervotes may simply be voters exercising their choice not to make a selection in a race.His supporters say two recounts have confirmed Buchanan's victory, and neither found a problem with the voting machines.The Republican's experts acknowledge that some people may have missed the race because of a poor ballot design, but that problem, they say, would have affected all voters equally.A representative from the Buchanan campaign was not available late Tuesday to comment on the Sentinel analysis. But earlier this week, Republicans said Jennings was attempting to accomplish in court what she couldn't do at the polls."Christine Jennings is once again allowing her own personal ambitions and the radical political agendas of liberal third-party groups to hijack the democratic process," GOP state Chairwoman Carole Jean Jordan said. "The votes have now been counted three times, once on Election Day and twice since then in state-mandated recounts; yet Christine Jennings will not step forward and do what is right for the voters of the 13th Congressional District, which is to concede."A Jennings spokesman said the results of the Sentinel analysis are consistent with what the Democrats have been saying all along."That reflects what we've seen anecdotally," David Kochman said. "The overwhelming majority of reports of voters having problems say they were trying to vote for Christine Jennings. It's nearly unanimous."

Saturday, November 18, 2006

Let us Give Thanks this Holiday Season.



Pray & give thanks as much as you eat.

Luke 17: 11-19

And it came to pass, as he went to Jerusalem, that he passed through the midst of Samaria and Galilee. And as he entered into a certain village, there met him ten men that were lepers, which stood afar off: And they lifted up their voices, and said, Jesus, Master, have mercy on us. And when he saw them, he said unto them, Go Shew yourselves unto the priests. And it came to pass, that, as they went, they were cleansed. And one of them, when he saw he was healed, turned back, and with a loud voice glorified God, And fell down on his face at his feet, giving him thanks: and he was a Samaritan.

Ten were healed but only one thanked Jesus. It only takes a moment to offer thanks for the least and greatest of things.

Tuesday, November 07, 2006

Democrats Retake USA House of Reps.




The projected make up of the House is 193 DEMS 155 REP

Checks & Balances Blog 2006 Election Predictions


Voter turnout will be approximately 55%
There will be an I increase in the overall numbers voting Democrat, but also an increase in Right Conservatives voting party line. The libertarians may take a small but significant vote from the GOP especially in races like Florida’s campaign for Governor.

Democrats will win the U.S. House by a small margin.

Republicans will retain the Senate

More to come on specific Hot races…(these are predictions only)

The Florida Governor’s Race
Charlie Crist

Florida's Senate Race
Bill Nelson

U.S. Congressional District 13
???

CFO
Alex Sink


It is Official. Democrats have won back the United States House of Representatives!!!

Wednesday, October 11, 2006

North Korea: Stop Blaming Bill Clinton!!!



I’m tired of hearing Republican leaders attempting to falsely associate blame for current USA problems on the shoulders of the Great Former President Bill Clinton. The fact of the matter is there were no international incidents, no production of Nuclear weapons, no nuclear test by N. Korea under Bill Clinton.

Do these Republican leaders have no respect for Bill Clinton whom successfully served his nation for 8 years?

Fact, under G.W. Bush whom has been in office for 6 years there has been an increase in Nuclear material & weapons produced in N. Korea, under ground test just conducted last week, and missiles test shot over our ally Japan.


The Buck stops with G.W. Bush, Dick Cheney, Donald Rumsfeld, Condoleezza Rice, John McCain and the like.

Unlike G.W Bush, the Honorable President Bill Clinton guarded our nation well.

John McCain called his tactics as ‘given carrots’, but in realty in was diplomacy. A talent lacking in G.W. Bush.

Monday, October 09, 2006

Flipping Societal Norms


We live in world where vast changes are on the topping edge of flipping societal norms. The norm that the USA is the lone distinctive internationally power.

I gave a speech at the University of South Florida a few years ago about the future economic, military, and political influence of the USA. Today, I believe the same, that the United States of America is almost no longer a distinctive sole superpower.

Under the leadership of George W. Bush and Dick Cheney we have lost our stature.

You may call this pessimist forecasting. My opinion is not stated for the sack of itself but to emphasis that changes are need to U.S. economic, domestic, and diplomatic policies.

I’m sure there are others that can articulate on my following position more adequately. There is no possibility for a new nation to emerge that truly represents pure equality, opportunity and freedom as the USA did 200 years ago. Therefore there will be drastic changes in those nations where there is “room for and civilian pressure for” change.

Observation shows there are 4 global regions where such changes shall occur.

USA, Russia, China and India will be the countries most unrecognizable altered from their current situation.

South America, Africa, and the Middle East are regions crippled by cultural barriers preventing their advancement.

Significant events could possibly come from Iran, North Korea, and Japan. Because these Countries possess unique independent ‘aspirations’.

Briefly, we must discuss Iran & North Korea. Think of them as 1 hypothetically. Common sense would dictate the following: These 2 sovereign nations are being pressured to remain in the “stone age”, not developing economically and industrially nearly unilaterally by the USA. Do not read more into my statement. Basically, these nations have 2 rights in this situation: to industrialize and to defend themselves.

The interest of no country should impede on such. The development of Nuclear weapons however could logically be argued not a right of all nations.

This is dramatically a detrimental position for the USA to hold. This approach has occurred solely under the leadership of George W. Bush and Dick Cheney. No other presidents: not George Washington, not J.F. Kennedy, not Harry Truman, not Jimmy Carter nor Bill Clinton were as foolishly pushing our wonderful nation towards ever lasting War as this G.W. Bush administration. Let’s pray such leadership is an anomaly.

Europe already in advanced political states, will simply adapt to those changes seen in the USA, Russia, China and India.

Only God knows what our world will evolve into. A world of peace & prosperity or a world of conflict and war and for whom?

Wednesday, October 04, 2006

Foley Fallout Spreads


Foley Fallout Spreads through-out the Republican Party.

Today on C-SPAN a Conservative voter said 'they are now going to vote for Democrats this year because of abuses of power by the GOP'. In addition Conservative pundit Rush Limbaugh fabricated wild speculation that Mark Foley was set up. Speaker Dennis Hastert may be forced to resign as joked by White House Press Secretary Tony Snow. And President Bush is risking political capital by supporting Speaker Hastert.

The FL 16th Congressional District Seat which encompasses areas just south of Sarasota will most likely now go to Democrat Mahoney (C&B).

The following is reported by National Public Radio.

The fallout on Capitol Hill from computer messages resigned Rep. Mark Foley sent to under-age pages continued Tuesday, with a call for Speaker of the House Dennis Hastert's resignation coming from a conservative newspaper.

Late Tuesday, Foley's attorney acknowledged for the first time that his client is gay. Speaking to the media in Florida, Attorney David Roth also said that when Foley was a teenager, he was molested by a clergyman.
But earlier in the day, the Republican Party was seeking to cope with a scandal that has derailed hopes of focusing on midterm elections. The day included a show of support for Speaker Hastert from President Bush.
The President spoke in California, where he went to raise money for Republican congressional candidates. In his first public remarks on the Foley scandal, Mr. Bush said he was "dismayed and shocked" to learn of what he called Foley's "unacceptable behavior."

"Families have every right to expect that when they send their children to be a congressional page in Washington, that those children will be safe," the president said.

"We have every right as citizens to expect people who hold high office behave responsibly in that office."

The conservative Washington Times newspaper has called on Speaker Dennis Hastert to resign his post, saying the House leader was either grossly negligent or deliberately looked the other way.

Hastert has said he does not remember being told by his staff that a former page had complained about e-mails Foley sent him in the summer of 2005.

Hastert conceded Tuesday that the e-mails were a red flag that should have warned House leaders of Foley's conduct.

Of Hastert, President Bush said, "I know that he wants all the facts to come out and he wants to ensure that these children up there on Capitol Hill are protected. I'm confident he will provide whatever leadership he can to law enforcement in this investigation."

The FBI is conducting a preliminary probe into whether any laws were broken by Foley's explicit messaging to minors.
House Republican leader John Boehner seemed to distance himself from Speaker Hastert as he explained his own conduct in the case.
In an interview with Cincinnati radio station WLW, Boehner said he too was aware of the initial concerns about Foley, and said he passed those concerns to Hastert.

"I believe the clerk of the House who runs the page program, the page board, all report to the speaker," Boehner said. "And I believed it had been dealt with."

Boehner's office later released a letter to the editor of the Washington Times, in which he stated that no one the House leadership, including Speaker Hastert, had any knowledge of the warped and sexually explicit instant messages that were revealed last Friday.

Other Republican House members have begun circling the wagons around Hastert. Arizona congressman John Shadegg has been rounding up signatures on a letter in support of Hastert. And Republican Ray LaHood, who represents a district in Illinois near Hastert's, says the speaker was ill-served by his staff."

NPR:
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=6189877

Mahoney Info:
http://www.timmahoneyforflorida.com/e3/index.php?option=com_frontpage&Itemid=1

http://www.sun-herald.com/NewsArchive2/091406/tp9ew16.htm?date=091406&story=tp9ew16.htm

Tuesday, October 03, 2006

Rush Limbaugh has lost All decency

I urge everyone to listen to Rush Limbaugh’s Radio broadcast on October 3, 2006. He defended Mark Foley, the disgraced Congressman from Florida.

Yesterday, Rush Limbaugh made claims of wild speculation that the Democratic Party planted pages in the House to set up Mark Foley.

What an imagination he has, and he claims to report the news.

My lord! Did Rush Limbaugh forget about the children affected in this matter, the families, and the criminal acts of Mark Foley?

Political pundits would be right on to associate Rush Limbaugh with a Pig.

If Republicans will not disassociate themselves from this scandal then God damn, don’t defend the behavior of Mark Foley!

Limbaugh’s show today was simply disgusting (you can quote me on that).

-Anthony T. Brooks
Checks & Balances Blog

Wednesday, September 27, 2006

The Passion behind the Geneva Conventions


"You don't need blanket advance approval for blanket torture," President Bill Clinton


The title of this commentary is dually fitted for such a discussion. The Passion behind the Geneva Conventions.

“The first Geneva Convention was signed in 1864 to protect the sick and wounded in war time. In 1929, two more Geneva Conventions dealt with the treatment of the wounded and prisoners of war. The Hague Convention on the Protection of Cultural Property was signed in 1954, the United Nations Convention on Military or Any Other Hostile Use of Environmental Techniques followed in 1977, together with two Additional Protocols to the Geneva Conventions of 1949, extending their protections to civil wars. (1 see note)”

The Conventions add civil parameters to war. Without such parameters, military options for governments such as torture and Nuclear bombardment would be acceptable.

In America, pride is taking in the Constitution which states that international treaties such as the Geneva Conventions are law.

The Conventions also state:

“All persons who do not take a direct part or who have ceased to take part in hostilities, whether or not their liberty has been restricted, are entitled to respect for their person, honour and convictions and religious practices. They shall in all circumstances be treated humanely (1 see note)”.

Millions firmly believe that Universal Human Rights should never be washed aside, most definitely NEVER by the government of United States of America.

The flag, the national anthem, the statue of liberty, the Constitution. All symbols of liberty, hope, and freedom which only the United Sates once was a shining beacon of.

Imagine this scenario: you are arrested, you are given no reasoning nor charge. You are afforded no rights, no hearing, no trial, no habeas corpus. Torture may be used upon you. And I ask you, also ask your family, how long would such treatment be acceptable?

The United States government is currently engaged in such a scenario.

This is where the Passion behind the Geneva Conventions is derived from. In my eyes, simple rights belong to all people: American or not.

There are those, many calling themselves Conservatives that ask why we should care about the rights of those in other countries. (Nevertheless American citizens allegedly linked to terrorism).

Well America cared about Rights and the dignity of Life during World War II. America cared about Rights and the dignity of all Life during Kosovo. I ask these so called ‘conservatives (with a little “c”) why not care about Rights and the dignity of life during your War on Terror?

Honorable President William Jefferson Clinton:
http://go.reuters.com/newsArticle.jhtml?type=topNews&storyID=13558861&src=rss/topNews

Info on the Conventions (1):
http://www.genevaconventions.org/

Iraq War Fuels Terrorism Threat

The U.S. war in Iraq has increased, not decreased, the threat of terrorism, according to a top-level, classified intelligence summary.
Findings of that National Intelligence Estimate on "Trends in Global Terrorism" were first reported over the weekend by The New York Times.

The intellegence report finds the war in Iraq has fueled a new generation of Islamic radicalism, which has spread around the globe.
U.S. intelligence chief John Negroponte disputes that characterization of the report, saying published accounts reflect only "a small handful" of the study's conclusions.

Robert Hutchings was the chairman of the National Intelligence Council in 2004 when the Council wrote a similarly critical, but unclassified, review. Hutchings speaks with Renee Montagne about the news.

http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=6137678

Thursday, September 21, 2006

Dubai Still Owns U.S. Ports

Six months ago, Dubai Ports World reached an agreement with Congress to sell its North American operations to a U.S.-based firm within four to six months. Six months later, the company still owns those ports, but says it will sell soon. Democrats say they will make it a campaign issue if a sale isn¿t completed before the November elections.

Report:
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=6108992

Commentary:

The GW Bush Administration in its support of Dubai have placed its goal of privatization above that of the general security of the American people. From my observation the American people do not want a Middle Eastern firm having partial nor complete control over any USA port.

Numerous reports have shown that Americas ports are the nations weakest points on Security, that millions of packages enter the country unchecked. Putting such port points of entry in the control of a Muslim Middle East based corporation is not a good idea.

Furthermore on the economic front, Americans want to keep as many jobs in the hands pf American firms.

Let me tell you something. The true colors of GW Bush is not a sincere concern for national Security but an suspect obsessive interest for certain business affiliations, corporations and the wealthy.

Look for yourself, GW Bush spoke on National television to assist DuBai Ports but offered no assistance to the American company Ford Motor Company. This is why I call GW Bush’s actions suspect.

Tuesday, September 12, 2006

President Clinton vs. Mr. Bush


There is a movie that has created some discussion of the Honorable President Bill Clinton, whom has served his nation well leading through peace and economic prosperity.

The Face of the matter is that 9/11, the War in Iraq, the London City Bombings, and disdains for USA Policy amongst multiple countries had occurred under the watch of G.W. Bush. Bush who is leading our nation to Wars and economic decline.

Monday, September 11, 2006

9/11




O say, can you see, by the dawn's early light,What so proudly we hailed at the twilight's last gleaming?Whose broad stripes and bright stars, through the perilous fight,O'er the ramparts we watched, were so gallantly streaming!And the rockets' red glare, the bombs bursting in air,Gave proof through the night that our flag was still there:O say, does that star-spangled banner yet waveO'er the land of the free and the home of the brave?

On the shore, dimly seen thro' the mist of the deep,Where the foe's haughty host in dread silence reposes,What is that which the breeze, o'er the towering steep.As it fitfully blows, half conceals, half discloses?Now it catches the gleam of the morning's first beam,In full glory reflected, now shines on the stream'Tis the star-spangled banner. Oh! long may it waveO'er the land of the free and the home of the brave!

And where is that band who so vauntingly sworeThat the havoc of war and the battle's confusionA home and a country should leave us no more?Their blood has washed out their foul footstep's pollution.No refuge could save the hireling and slaveFrom the terror of flight, or the gloom of the grave,And the star-spangled banner in triumph doth waveO'er the land of the free and the home of the brave.

Oh! thus be it ever, when freemen shall standBetween their loved homes and the war's desolation,Blest with vict'ry and peace, may the Heav'n - rescued landPraise the Pow'r that hath made and preserved us a nation.Then conquer we must, for our cause is just,And this be our motto--"In God is our trust."And the star-spangled banner in triumph doth waveO'er the land of the free and the home of the brave.

Friday, September 08, 2006

Saddam had No Links to Al Qaida


"There is no evidence that Saddam Hussein had any relationship with the late terrorist Abu Musab al-Zarqawi or with al-Qaida, the Senate Intelligence Committee says in a new report.

The partially declassified review of U.S. intelligence in Iraq prior to the toppling of Saddam Hussein refutes several claims made by the Bush administration.

Republicans dismiss the report as "old news," but Democrats say the report destroys the administration's case for going to war. The report also raises questions about the role of former CIA director George Tenet in making the case for war.

Release of the committee's report comes more than two and a half years after Democrats on the panel demanded a probe into the use or abuse of intelligence leading up to the Iraq war. Only the first two parts of that probe are in today's report. The most explosive elements of the findings compare pre- Iraq war intelligence with what was learned later.

No Republicans who serve on the committee were on hand to comment on the findings. But the panel's Democratic vice chairman, Jay Rockefeller, declared on the Senate floor that the document shows the Bush administration's case for invading Iraq "exploited a deep sense of insecurity" Americans felt following the 9-11 attacks.

"The administration, in its zeal to promote public opinion in the United States for toppling Saddam Hussein, pursued a deceptive strategy prior to the war of using intelligence" that was either unreliable, inaccurate or fabricated, the Sen. Rockefeller said.

Fellow Democrat Carl Levin of Michigan said that despite evidence to the contrary, President Bush last month continued to insist that Saddam Hussein had a relationship with Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, the recently killed leader of al-Qaida in Iraq.

The report cites other intelligence reports from both before and after the war that raised serious doubts about Iraq's ties to al-Qaida. It also relates how former CIA director George Tenet issued a statement that bolstered the case for war just before Congress voted on authorizing the use of force in Iraq -- even though the CIA had found unlikely the administration's claim that Saddam Hussein planned to use weapons of mass destruction.
White House spokesman Tony Snow dismissed the report, saying, "We'll let people quibble over three years ago."

"The important thing to do," Snow said, "is to figure out what you're doing tomorrow and the day after and the month after and the year after to make sure that this war on terror is won."

NPR Report:
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=5952990

Tuesday, September 05, 2006

National Security: What Would the Democrats Do?

Frankly, I do not believe National Security would have been the focal point or shall be the focus of a Democratic administration.

I wrote this post in anticipation of the Congressional elections of 2006 and the Presidential election of 2008 in hope of persuading more Republicans to vote for Democrats. If at all for the purpose of restoring political balance back within the government of our great nation.

The nearest example of what the Democrats would do is clear in the 8 year jubilee led by the Honorable President Bill Clinton of Arkansas. This is too long ago to remember so I give an example of a current great world leader.

I would ask for those of you who sincerely have no clue of what a Democrat would do too visualize Tony Blair. While Great Britain has been bombed and has foiled terrorist attacks, do you know what the focus of Honorable Prime Minister Tony Blair’s administration is?

Tony Blair’s focus is on Anti-Social Behavior. On the other hand his approach to the War on Terror is through law enforcement.

This is how the Democrats would govern.

They would focus on Domestic needs of the American people first while realistically providing for the National Security.

I know I’m not making this up because I remember how Bill Clinton placed an emphasized and invested more money into law enforcement and the War he did pure in Kosovo, we went in did our job and left. And while doing so the USA engaged in international corporation, and utilized the UN, NATO, and troops from other countries. I vaguely remember John Kerry also speaking of a more law enforcement approach to fighting the War on Terror.

This is how the Democrats would govern and it worked then and is working in Great Britain.

Now back to Tony Blair. He is seeking to have teachers pick up on signs of anti-social behavior in children in order to ward off such actions early on.

At the same time our President George W. Bush is giving numerous speeches about the War on Terror and staying the course in Iraq.

Why not does Great Britain, nor Russia, nor China, nor France, nor Germany have 100,000 plus troops in Iraq?

Why then is the USA draining its economy in the Middle East?

The American people are crying out against this War in Iraq, worried about the economy, the government is negligent on Domestic needs: Faith Based and Community Grants, Schools, Energy Prices, Social Services, the response to Natural Disasters, jobs, benefits and wages, healthcare, Medicaid, Medicare and other general cost of living.

Healthcare in the USA simply must be reformed. When someone who has employer insurance still has little access and options, what of that person whom does not have this benefit? Money must be removed from the equation.

How dare those in Washington D.C. state the federal government has little role in responding to such events as last years Hurricane Katrina. If our government fails the people in such a basic need, my lord. Then what is the role of government? The question is what are the priorities of this administration? And are these priorities in line with the desires of the American people?

These are the bread and butter issues. How much more sacrifice does the Bush Family and the countless other rich families in America want for the working class to make before these policy cease?

President George Washington dedicated his life to the creation of our great nation in order to provide for the common good of the free people of the United States of America. Now George W. Bush and his ‘administrators’ are seeking to rewrite the book itself.

I recount how Bush talked about Saddam Hussein in saying “he tried to kill my father”. And how far fetched it may sound I think of how Bush tried to take my Social Security.

Where is the common good in policy where everything is private? There is reason and purpose for government in providing for its citizens. It seems that some are seeking to establish a state where the benefit of being an American citizen is no different than being a citizen of Afghanistan.

Just today President Bush gave another speech on the War in Iraq where he repeated exactly the same things he has been saying for years.

Our country has been gravely misdirected and it has been far too many Bush years passed a time for change.


Blair’s campaign against Anti-Social Behavior:
http://www.kxmb.com/getARticle.asp?ArticleId=40791

Election Day: Primary Results!!!

The Winners Are!!!


Governor
Jim Davis
Wins Democratic nomination with 47%

Charlie Crist
Wins Republican nomination with 63%


U.S. Senate
Katherine Harris
Wins the Republican nomination with 50%

FL-Congressional District 13
Christine Jennings wins the Democratic nomination with 64%

Vern Buchanan wins Republican nomination with 32.3%

CFO
Tom Lee-R 56%

Attorney General
Skip Campbell-D 65.7%


As of: 10:40pm 09/05/06
, reporting based on the Florida Dept. of State

DEMS must Call Out the Republicans

To Win, Democrats especially in Florida must step outside of their comfort zone and challenge Republicans head on.

This “Democratic comfort zone” has not won elections since Bill Clinton. The Progressives of the Party may not necessarily turn out to vote and if they do they may vote for a 3rd party candidate. The Progressives of the Democratic Party most definitely in this year’s election cannot be counted on because they may not vote for a candidate who supports the Iraq War.

In addition, the Republicans have sucked up yes small but strategically significant demographics such as business and religious interest within the Hispanic and African American communities.

The DEMS must then grow its base.

Democrats must articulate their position on the following:

The Iraq War
Immigration
Homeland Security
The Economy

Changes to current Immigration Policy in reality is not of great concern to the majority of DEMS, however it is to Republicans. This is where the DEMS can win not just swing votes but the support of those who usually vote for the GOP.

I personally believe that in light of the current political climate if a Democrat runs solely on these 4 issues presenting a better plan than their Republican opponent they will win.

I've attended many Democratic functions and have heard folk say “democrats will always win on the issues". The fact is the DEMS have not won in Florida.

It is apparent that after loosing 2 important consecutive elections that a more coherent message along with directly calling out the Republicans will win for the Democratic Party.

This calling out is not the same as negative campaign tactics attacking your opponent.

Sunday, August 20, 2006

Christians & War

The Christian Church should not be concerned with Islam, it must be concerned with spreading the word of our Church. This was the calling left to the disciples. Jesus did not teach to promote Christian values through Wars of bombs but a spiritual warfare of faith.

What a world this would be if Christians alone strayed from Jesus’ example of Peace and embraced Lucifer’s tools of War. The Bible in Luke 2:14 says “Glory to God in the highest and peace on earth, good will towards men.”

Those claiming to be Christians within the United States are today becoming agitated by certain Muslim beliefs. Such beliefs as those that call for the killing of ‘infidels’.

The answer to such beliefs is certainly not continued War.

Christians are not alone; there are various faiths, and non believers whose values have no moral foundation. So I ask if the Christians will not be advocates of Peace within the World, then who shall be?

Saturday, August 19, 2006

13 Senators to End the Iraq War.

On June, 2006 the Senate had the opportunity to End the War in Iraq however they rejected two separate proposals, one by Kerry and another by Levin. There are Only 13 Senators standing firmly against the War.

It took 13 Colonies to birth our great nation. 13 Senators to end this War in Iraq.

Report:
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/13477664/

Its Iraq Stupid.


I don't tend to give advice to Republicans, but here's some: You will loose the House in 2006 because of Iraq.

Iraq: Why are we really there?

In 2002 Mr. G.W. Bush said 'Saddam tried to kill my dad'.

Maybe this is the real reason. What do you think?

Reports:
http://archives.cnn.com/2002/ALLPOLITICS/09/27/bush.war.talk/
http://www.smh.com.au/articles/2002/09/27/1032734315453.html
http://www.commondreams.org/headlines03/0304-05.htm

White House war-makers masquerading as peacemakers

"Once again President Bush has deceived the American people to open the way for a war of aggression, this time against Lebanon. Had it been successful, regime change in Syria and Iran were next on his agenda. It is now clear that the assault on Lebanon was agreed on and planned by the U.S. and Israel long before Hezbollah, reacting to Israel’s brutal assault against Palestine, captured two Israeli soldiers on July 12 of this year which was claimed to justify bombing all of Lebanon. After his tragically criminal war in Iraq and the emerging failure of the U.S. invasion of Afghanistan, President Bush apparently believes he can fool most of the people all of the time.

While Europe and the Arab world overwhelmingly called for an immediate cease fire, President Bush and his administration declared Israel "has the right to defend itself," supported the invasion and rejected a cease fire. The world watched in anguish as Israeli aircraft destroyed villages, towns and civilian facilities throughout Lebanon. Hezbollah fighters stopped a massive Israeli invasion of southern Lebanon and rained thousands of missiles into northern Israel. Every belligerent utterance of George W. Bush, our “War President,” and his war seeking assistants, referenced Hezbollah, Syria and Iran in the same breath. All received their special insults, as did the Muslim world, called “Islamic Fascists” by the President of the United States.

After it became clear that Israel had failed to achieve any of its proclaimed military objectives and U.S. officials had acknowledged that Israel was losing the war, the U.S. reversed its position and contributed to a negotiated cease fire to protect Israel. President Bush praised Israel as the Victor and claimed credit for the cease fire. The Lebanese people, Hezbollah, Syria, Iran and the world that watched the month of mayhem knew better. Israel did not even obtain the release of its two captured soldiers. Israel is withdrawing from Lebanon. People are returning to their villages. Hezbollah is leading the rebuilding of Lebanon, its prestige at an all time high in Lebanon, the Muslim world and beyond.
Israel is in turmoil. Former Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has decried the “mismanagement of the War” in the Knesset, and vowed that Israel will learn from its mistakes.

The fear and hatred generated by this brutal war of aggression makes peace more remote.

Probably 1200 Lebanese were killed, 75 percent civilian, and 140 Israelis, 80 percent military, with thousands injured, and an estimated $10 billion in property damage in Lebanon, 99 percent civilian.

How long can the American people accept a President who places himself above the law, who repeatedly wages wars of aggression, authorizes excessive force, the targeting of civilians, indiscriminate destruction, collective punishment, torture, disappearance, unlimited, illegal detention and dismisses them all with lies? How long will our nation endure this war by and against terrorism that he is creating?

Lebanon had hurt no one. It will be decades before it recovers if let alone. Like Palestine and Iraq it is a land of diverse and wonderful peoples of ancient and modern cultures. Beirut is one of the most glorious cities of the Mediterranean with snow capped mountains an hour's drive away. There are still stands of virgin cedars from which Solomon’s Temple in Jerusalem was built in peaceful commerce. Two thousand six hundred years ago, the prophet Ezekiel wrote of Tyre as a place “of perfect beauty...

Thy borders are in the midst of the sea... Thy builders have perfected thy beauty...” truth that millions of people have observed over the millenniums. Today Tyre lays in ruin once again from Israeli assault as the world has witnessed by television.

Can we doubt that President Bush will attack yet another country, if We, the People, fail to do our duty? Can he learn that you make more friends by helping feed children than by killing them?
We must act to Impeach George W. Bush and his criminal cohorts now.

Sincerely,
Ramsey Clark"

Monday, August 14, 2006

Iraq, Iraq, Iraq.

I heard someone describe the War in Iraq as "reinforced failure".

Observing this whole situation in Iraq, Afghanistan and the Middle East, one cannot ignore the Administration at fault.

Our presence in the Middle East is tantamount to putting our face into a nest of hornets.

The G.W. Bush Administration is utterly plagued with failures and lack of skill. In 7 years Bush has almost gambled away the respected reputation of the United States of America.

I propose this: besides supporting Israel the U.S. should completely leave the Middle East, bringing home the military by 2007.

Its time for change.

Wednesday, August 09, 2006

Democratic Strategy: Rovian


The Democratic Party needs to take such aggressive tactics to beat the Republican Party.

They may seem to be unethical but as Karl Rove still holds a job within the White House such aggressive tactics are apparently legal.

Liberman Looses Primary to Lamont:
http://www.cnn.com/2006/POLITICS/08/08/lieberman.website/index.html

Justice Kennedy speaks on U.S. Democracy

Kennedy: Jury's out on U.S. democracy
By MARK NIESSE, Associated Press Writer

Sun Aug 6, 1:13 AM ET

The United States is not making the case for freedom, democracy and Western law to the rest of the world, Supreme Court Justice Anthony Kennedy said Saturday.

"Make no mistake, there's a jury that's out. In half the world, the verdict is not yet in. The commitment to accept the Western idea of democracy has not yet been made, and they are waiting for you to make the case," Kennedy said in an address to the American Bar Association.

Kennedy, 70, said he fears many parts of the world are not yet convinced that the American form of government as designed by the framers of the Constitution guarantees a better way of life.

"Our best security, our only security, is in the world of ideas, and I sense a slight foreboding," he said.

Kennedy, a moderate justice who has become a key swing vote on the Supreme Court, argued that the meaning of the phrase "rule of law" must be made clear in order to spread the cause of freedom to other countries. He avoided singling out specific nations.

He said the rule of law has three parts: it must be binding on all government officials, it must respect the dignity, equality and human rights of every person, and it must guarantee people the right to enforce the law without fear of retaliation.

"Americans must understand that if the rules of law have meaning, such as hope and inspiration for the rest of the world, it must be coupled with the opportunity to improve human existence," Kennedy said.

The United States' quest to spread freedom will only succeed if people in other countries accept the promises made by a democratic government, he said.

"For us, law is a liberating force. It's a promise, it's a covenant that says you can hope, you can dream, you can dare, you can plan," he said. "We must explain to a doubting world where the verdict is still out."

Kennedy, who has served on the Supreme Court since 1988, urged the attorneys in the audience to do their part to work for the preservation of basic rights and uphold the principles of the American justice system.
American Bar Association President Michael Greco discussed some of the same themes as he introduced Kennedy.

"Any threat to liberties and human rights in one country is a threat to the citizens of all nations," Greco said. "The most fundamental responsibility of members of the legal profession is to ensure that the law is used as an instrument to advance the basic principles of justice, fairness and equality."

Minimum Wage Increase

It is time for the Government to take care of its People. As a voter if you want to change the direction our nation is headed then you must vote to change Congress.

The minimum age has not been raised in 10 years. This Republican Congress whom voted against raising the minimum wage is the same Congress that voted to raise their own salaries. How can this be justified?

It is out right absurd!

In addition within the United States it seems there is great opposition to the idea by ‘Conservatives’ that any U.S. citizen whom works 40 hours a week at any job should be obliged to earn enough to afford basic necessities such as Housing, Food, Education, Transportation & Healthcare. The idea of a ‘living wage’.

A person working a needed job in America making minimum wage makes $880 a month before taxes.

It seems Republicans who claim to be compassionate, and a great deal who claim to be Christian would leave these their constituents to the dogs.

C&B cannot support these interests whom believe we should give tax breaks and financial incentives to the rich and corporations. These interest who believe that Business will always serve the public good. C&B holds that Business interests are out to turn a profit without regard to its contribution to the public. And without regard to the effects of this drive to turn a profit and its drain on the economy.

Such interests even believe there is limited role for the government in regulating business practices such as a minimum wage. The United States of America was founded on the principles of promoting public welfare. It is the role of government to play a part in such matters.

It is believed by some Regan Conservatives that government policy leaning towards government advancement of the Business Sector and the already wealthy will create a trickle down effect. This is utterly false. Such policies are creating a mass of wealth within a small population. And yes, this utopian idea of Regan economics may have held true if the Business Sector would be reinvesting within the United States creating not only more jobs which is not happening, but well paying jobs.

In addition knowing first hand that more services and skilled jobs are being outsourced to specifically India than are being created within the United States.

The Democratic Party must rally around an increase in the minimum ‘living’ wage.


NPR:
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=5626503

Tuesday, August 08, 2006

Damn Oil Companies

The Oil Companies are spreading rumors about gas price hikes again.

This is not free market capitalism.

What’s going on is clear: The American people are being hood winkled!

How the hell do we go from paying $1.00 for a gallon of gas to $3.00 + in 3 years?

All this sitting around waiting for new leaders, the economic markets to adjust themselves or the FED to act is baloney. We the people should do 4 things:

1) Take to the Streets, Protest the offices of these Oil Executives their lobbyist including the politicians they have in their pockets

2) Demand Investigations of all Oil Companies (starting with Exxon followed by BP) by independent counsels


3) Spend our money on energy efficient industries

4) Build greener communities.

Impeachment of G.W.: far past due

C&B has been advocating Impeachment since its inception.

Congressman Conyers has published a report to support such action.

It is far past time for the Media, political organizations and the Public to act in solidarity to stop and hold accountable the architects of the Constitutional Crises brought own by the G.W. Bush Administration.

http://www.afterdowningstreet.org/constitutionincrisis

False statements to Congress, overstretching of the War Powers Resolution, international treaties on torture; the list goes on.

Support the Troops: End the Iraq War


The following e-mail was forwarded to me today. C&B does not support the War in Iraq; the troops however are a different issue. It has been suggested that every Friday be called Red Friday showing harmony & patriotism amongst all Americans in support of our fine troops. Sounds like a wonderful idea.

"Last week I was in Atlanta, Georgia attending a conference. While I was in the airport, returning home, I heard several people behind me beginning to clap and cheer. I immediately turned around and witnessed one of the greatest acts of patriotism I have ever seen.

Moving through the terminal was a group of soldiers in their cami's. As they began heading to their gate everyone (well,almost everyone) was abruptly on their feet, their hands waving and cheering. When I saw the soldiers, probably 30-40 of them being applauded and cheered for it hit me, I'm not alone. I'm not the only red-blooded American who still loves this country and supports our troops and their families.

Of cou! rse I immediately stopped and began clapping for these young unsung he roes who are putting their lives on the line everyday for us so we can go to school, work and home without fear or reprisal. Just when I thought I could not be more proud of my country or of our service men and women a young girl not more than 6 or 7 years old ran up to one of the male soldiers. He knelt down and said "Hi" to the little girl. Then she asked him if he would give something to her daddy for her. The young soldier who didn't look any older than maybe 22 said he would try, and what did she want him to give to her daddy. Then suddenly the little girl grabbed the neck of this soldier, gave him the biggest hug she could muster and then kissed him on the cheek.

The mother of the little girl who said her daughter's name was Courtney told the young soldier that her husband was a Marine and had been in Iraq for 11 months now. As the mom was explaining how much her daughter Courtney missed her father, the young soldier began to tear up. When this temporarily single mom finished explaining her situation, all of the soldiers huddled together for a brief moment. Then one of the other servicemen pulled out a military looking walkie-talkie. They started playing with the device and talking back and forth on it.

After about 10-15 seconds of this, the young soldier walked back over to Courtney, bent down and said this to her: "I spoke to your daddy and he told me to give this to you." He then hugged this little girl that he had just met and gave her a kiss on the cheek. He finished by saying, "Your daddy told me to tell you that he loves you more than anything and he is coming home very soon."

The mom at this point was crying almost uncontrollably. As the young soldier stood to his feet he saluted Courtney and her mom. I was standing no more than 6 feet away as this entire event unfolded. As the soldiers began to leave and head towards their gate, people resumed their applause. As I stood there applauding and looking around, there were very few dry eyes, including my own. That young soldier in one last act of selflessness, turned around and blew a kiss to Courtney with a tear rolling down his cheek.
&n! bsp;
We need to remember everyday all of our soldiers and their families and thank God for them and their sacrifices. At the end of the day, it's good to be an American.

Red Friday Just keeping you "in the loop" so you'll know what's going on in case this takes off.

RED FRIDAYS ----- Very soon, you will see a great many people wearing Red every Friday. The reason? Americans who support our troops used to be called the "silent majority". We are no longer silent, and are voicing our love for God, country and home in record breaking numbers. We are not organized, boisterous or over-bearing. We get no liberal media coverage on TV, to reflect our message or our opinions.

Many Americans, like you, me and all our friends, simply want to recognize that the vast majority of America supports our troops.

Our idea of showing solidarity and support for our troops with dignity and respect starts this Friday -and continues each and every Friday until the troops all come home, sending a deafening message that every red-blooded American who supports our men and women afar will wear something red.

By word of mouth, press, T V-let's make the United States on every Friday a sea of red much like a homecoming football game in the bleachers.

If every one of us who loves this country will share this with acquaintances, co-workers, friends, and family. It will not be long before the USA is covered in RED and it will let our troops know the once "silent" majority is on their side more than ever, ce! rtainly more than the media lets on.

The first thing a soldier says when asked "What can we do to make things better for you?" is...We need your support and your prayers.

Let's get the word out and lead with class and dignity, by example; and wear something red every Friday.

IF YOU AGREE, THEN SEND THIS ON. IF YOU COULD CARE LESS,THEN HIT THE DELETE BUTTON --- IT IS YOUR CHOICE. WE LIVE IN THE LAND OF THE FREE, ONLY BECAUSE OF THE BRAVE.

THEIR BLOOD RUNS RED---- SO WEAR RED! --- MAY GOD HELP AMERICA TO BECOME ONE NATION, UNDER GOD.

HAVE A GREAT DAY! "

Friday, July 28, 2006

Miami Terrorists Threat Just Government Hype ?

The Daily Show Deconstructs Fed's Miami Terrorists Hype
From: Veredictum

Jon Stewart examines the recent arrest of seven "terrorists" who were allegedly plotting to destroy the Sears Tower in Chicago. After their arrest in Miami, the Bush Administration conducted a media blitz designed to show the effectiveness of Bush's "war on terror." In his usual irreverent style Stewart uses the administration own statements to show there was little threat from the seven "terrorists". Not only did the accused men have no operational plan, they also had no money, weapons, or the mental capacity to carry out the fantasy of bringing down Chicago's tallest building.

http://sofocleto.blogspot.com/2006/07/daily-show-deconstructs-feds-miami.html

Thursday, July 27, 2006

Republican Control of House Is Tenuous

With Election Day just a little more than three months away, the Morning Edition polling team was asked to take the pulse of likely voters in the most competitive districts across the country.

http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=5585086

Opinion: Democrats must be practical in their straggly to win seats in this Congressional election. They must engage in strategies which clearly are of concern to voters today: opposing the Iraq War, the economy & jobs, healthcare, and brining unity back within the country.
Democratic candidates must take clear positions and bring plans forth on all of these issues.

Democrats must also seize an opportunity to directly target certain demographics: Hispanics, African Americans and Evangelicals.

The strength of Democrats would be ore effective on the grass roots; wining through volunteer organizing. A ground organization can beat the money of the GOP.

Senator Obama Wins Evangelicals Back for Democrats

Illinois Sen. Barack Obama talks with Renee Montagne about his call for Democrats to reach out to evangelical Christians. Republicans have long laid claim to that powerful voting block. He believes that Democrats can win them back with issues like the drive to end poverty.

http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=5556961

Homeland Security Blamed for Waste

The Department of Homeland Security has wasted money on no-bid contracts and inadequate management of the contractors, according to congressional investigators. Their report's individual complaints have been discussed publicly before, but the document unifies them. DHS officials says the agency is working to correct the problems.

http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=5587588

Black Student Enrollment at UCLA Plunges

Fallout from Prop. 209

Passed by referendum in 1996, Proposition 209 barred the state of California -- including its public colleges and universities -- from giving preferential treatment on the basis of race. The 1998 freshman class was the first within the University of California system to feel the effects of the ban.

While minority admissions as a whole have risen sharply, the number of African-American students admitted has plummeted -- particularly at the UC system's two flagship schools, UCLA and Berkeley.

http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=5563891

Thursday, July 20, 2006

G.W. Bush Finally speaks with NAACP

As a former local chapter NAACP President I am pleased to see Mr. G.W. Bush speak with this the oldest USA civil rights organization after refusing to for 5 years.

Mr. Bush also admits that racism still exits in the United States.

"WASHINGTON -
President Bush' acknowledged persistent racism in America and lamented the Republican Party's bumpy relations with black voters as he addressed the NAACP's annual convention Thursday for the first time in his presidency. "

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20060720/ap_on_go_pr_wh/bush_naacp

Tuesday, July 18, 2006

A Call for New Democratic Leadership in the House.


The Democratic Party must not overlook a potential weak link in its goal to retake the House of Representatives in November 2006.

In my opinion Nancy Pelosi is this weak link.

Pelosi is currently poised to become the next Speaker of the House. Being the primary proponent of a democratic strategy based solely on the culture of corruption, which failed in winning Duck Cunningham’s Congressional seat in her home state of California Pelosi has possibly shown herself to be an inept leader.

I welcome any supporter of Pelosi to dispute this analysis.

Steny H. Hoyer is poised to become the next Minority Leader. In his present role he has provided little leadership in articulating a coherent Democratic message.

With all respect to DNC Chair Howard Dean, the Party also needs voices that are considered to be mainstream & reasonable in the eyes of moderate, independent and swing voters.

The voices that would better articulate the message of the Democratic Party in the House lie with two men of distinction: John Murtha-(Pennsylvania) and John Lewis- (Georgia).

Pelosi has served well, but the Democrats strength no longer lies with her role as an opposition minority leader but today the Democratic Party should move to invest in unifying leaders. Pelosi in her current post would without question loose the Democratic Party votes. The Party cannot ignore the truth of a conservative leaning ideological shift throughout the country.

Who could win the swing votes? Who could be respected by Conservatives to be the next Speaker of House? Lewis & Murtha both elder statesmen, with coherent views would offer realistic & practical leadership.

Lewis may in deed be the idea candidate for Minority Leader. Our nation is more political divided and racially agitated than it has been in years. The proof is this: 1) the revelations brought forth in the governments response to hurricane Katrina. 2) The rise pf Immigration issues and worker protest. The time is ripe for the Democratic Party to bring together the black & Hispanic communities and hold their block of votes for years to come.

John Lewis was a leader within the civil rights movement; he walked with Martin Luther King. He is a Christian. Lewis could be a strong uniting force.

Lewis is not, how can I say, an African American leader whom has be pigeon holed into simply representing for the black community. Lewis already holds the post of senior chief deputy whip being the 7th highest ranking Democratic House member.

The Republicans are afraid of the potential influence of 1 current representative alone, the Honorable Mr. John Murtha. His name speaks for itself. Murtha would do well as Deputy Minority Whip, articulating a united Democratic position on the War in Iraq. The ambiguous stance the party now holds is doing nothing but loosing potential votes.

Changes must be made within the Democratic Party. The same old tired strategies have not won elections. The House, the Senate, the White House are in the hands of Republicans. 8 years of Republican rule.

It is time for Democrats to aggressively take the lead and retake the U.S. House of Representatives.

-Anthony T. Brooks, Checks & Balances Blog


John Lewis:
http://www.house.gov/johnlewis/index.shtml

John Murtha:
http://www.house.gov/murtha/

Report on Murtha’s interest in Leadership:
http://abcnews.go.com/Politics/story?id=2059044&page=1

VOTING RIGHTS ACT

VOTING RIGHTS ACT: Voting 390 for and 33 against, the House on July 13 sent the Senate a bill (HR 9) to extend the Voting Rights Act for 25 years beyond its scheduled expiration next year. The law was enacted in 1965 to outlaw discriminatory policies such as poll taxes and literacy tests, and expanded later to require voting materials in certain jurisdictions to be printed in languages in addition to English. A yes vote was to pass the bill.

http://www.kansascity.com/mld/kansascity/news/opinion/15060243.htm

33 Republican and 0 Democrats Voting against the Reauthorization of the Voting Rights Act.

Here are their names: Congressmen

Baker
Barrett (SC)
Bartlett (MD)
Barton (TX)
Bonner
Burton (IN)
Campbell (CA)
ConawayDeal (GA)
DoolittleDuncan
Everett

Foxx
Franks (AZ)
Garrett (NJ)
Gingrey
Hefley
Hensarling
Herger
Johnson,
SamKing (IA)
Linder
McHenry

Miller, Gary
Norwood
Paul
Price (GA)
Rohrabacher
Royce
Shadegg
Tancredo
Thornberry
Westmoreland

These representatives are not fit to serve the People of the United States of America, for they seek to tilt the balance of equality for all voters and therefore should be voted out of Congress.

Rep. John Lewis, D-Ga., displayed photos of civil rights activists, including himself, who were beaten by Alabama state troopers in 1965 as they marched from Selma to Montgomery in support of voting rights.

"I have a concussion. I almost died. I gave blood; some of my colleagues gave their very lives," Lewis shouted from the House floor, while the Rev. Jesse Jackson, another veteran of the civil rights movement, looked on from the gallery.

"Yes, we've made some progress; we have come a distance," Lewis added. "The sad truth is, discrimination still exists. That's why we still need the Voting Rights Act and we must not go back to the dark past."

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/07/13/AR2006071300369.html

Americans want Democrats in power


WASHINGTON - Republicans are in jeopardy of losing their grip on Congress in November.

With less than four months to the midterm elections, the latest Associated Press-Ipsos poll found that Americans by an almost 3-to-1 margin hold the GOP-controlled Congress in low regard and profess a desire to see Democrats wrest control after a dozen years of Republican rule.

Further complicating the GOP outlook to turn things around is a solid percentage of liberals, moderates and even conservatives who say they'll vote Democratic. The party out of power also holds the edge among persuadable voters, a prospect that doesn't bode well for the Republicans.
The election ultimately will be decided in 435 House districts and 33 Senate contests, in which incumbents typically hold the upper hand. But the survey underscored the difficulty Republicans face in trying to persuade a skeptical public to return them to Washington.
The AP-Ipsos poll of 1,000 adults conducted Monday through Wednesday found that President Bush has stopped his political freefall, with his approval rating of 36 percent basically unchanged from last month. Bush received slightly higher marks for his handling of the Iraq war and the fight against terrorism, weeks after his surprise trip to Baghdad and the killing of Iraqi terrorist Abu Musab al-Zarqawi in a U.S. airstrike last month.
But a Democratic takeover of either the House or Senate would be disastrous for the president, leaving both his agenda for the last two years in office and the chairmanship of investigative committees in the hands of the opposition party. To seize control of Congress, the Democrats must displace 15 Republicans from House seats and six Republicans from the Senate.
The AP-Ipsos survey asked 789 registered voters if the election for the House were held today, would they vote for the Democratic or Republican candidate in their district. Democrats were favored 51 percent to 40 percent.
Not surprisingly, 81 percent of self-described liberals said they would vote for the Democrat. Among moderates, though, 56 percent backed a Democrat in their district and almost a quarter of conservatives - 24 percent - said they will vote Democratic.
Democrats also held the advantage among persuadable voters - those who are undecided or wouldn't say whom they prefer. A total of 51 percent said they were leaning Democrat, while 41 percent were leaning Republican.
"We still have wind in our face. It's a midterm election in the president's second term," said Rep. Tom Reynolds, R-N.Y., chairman of the National Republican Congressional Committee. "Today is a little bit better in the atmospherics of Washington than it was maybe a month ago."
The president's party historically has lost seats in the sixth year of his service. Franklin D. Roosevelt lost 72 House seats in 1938; Dwight D. Eisenhower 48 in 1958. The exception was Bill Clinton in 1998.
By another comparison, polls in 1994 - when a Republican tidal wave swept Democrats from power - the two parties were in a dead heat in July on the question of whom voters preferred in their district.
"It comes down to a fairly simply question: Can Democrats nationalize all the elections? If Republicans prevent that, they have a shot. If they don't, they lose," said Doug Gross, the GOP gubernatorial candidate in Iowa in 2002 and the state finance director for the 2004 Bush-Cheney campaign.
Overall, only 27 percent approved of the way Congress is doing its job. Lawmakers get favorable marks from 36 percent of conservatives, 28 percent of moderates and 17 percent of liberals.
Some criticism of Congress has focused on lawmakers' inability to control spending, with lawmakers tucking in special projects for their home districts.
"They used to say there's nothing worse than a tax-and-spend liberal Democrat," said Gary Wilson, 51, a self-described liberal from Gaithersburg, Md. "There is something worse: It's a borrow-and-spend Republican. This is going to come back to haunt us."
One bright spot for the GOP is that Republicans hold an advantage over Democrats on issues such as foreign policy and fighting terrorism - 43 percent to 33 percent - and a smaller edge on handling Iraq - 36 percent to 32 percent.
The AP-Ipsos poll was conducted after the divisive Democratic debate in the Senate over setting a timetable for withdrawing U.S. forces from Iraq. Potential voters were paying attention to the GOP complaint that Democrats want to "cut and run."
"It seems like the Democrats want to pull out or start to pull out, and I don't think that's the correct thing to do," said Eric Bean, 24, a college minister in Fort Worth, Texas. "I'd much rather see a Congress that would support our president. I think George Bush is doing the best he can. I think Republicans will support him."
John Dendahl, the Republican candidate for governor in New Mexico, said Democrats, with the help of some Republicans, have been successful at obstructing legislation in Congress while heaping the blame on the GOP.
Tom Courtney, a Democratic state senator in Iowa, said U.S. voters are ready to trust his party to lead.
"I honestly think it's ours to lose," Courtney said. "My experience, we're not above that. Americans are ready for change."
The poll of adults had a margin of error of 3 percentage points and the survey of registered voters had a margin of error of 3.5 percentage points.

Poll: Americans want Democrats in power
DONNA CASSATA
Associated Press

Thursday, July 13, 2006

Several Republicans Oppose Voting Rights Act


We live in a nation where in at least in the South every city has distinctive black usually poorer neighborhoods.

With just this one fact how can these ‘Conservatives’ argue there is no longer a need for a strong Voting Rights Act. This act is the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Now let’s talk about Florida, probably the most progressive of the southern states. In my home town of Plant City the black neighborhood is ironically encircled by railroads tracks. Where in 2004 the Republican Party prevented eligible black votes from casting a ballot in Jacksonville. Where there are cities that hold strong to their evil racist history, where no minorities live.

These are still the facts of today.

Hell yes! The Voting Rights Act is not out dated, it must be reauthorized.

As free speaking American citizen I would like to respectively take this opportunity to call every Congressman that votes against or to waken this act a Racist.

More to come…..

(above caption: lets never forget Katrina)