Unauthorized Attendees at the Whitehouse

While many of us are concerned with national security, the Whitehouse is now concerned with local security. Recently, a couple somehow got past the Secret Service detail and into a state dinner at which they got to meet several celebrities including President Obama. After the event, careers were put at risk and Larry King gained two new potential interviewees.

One guy on a news show quipped: “All they have to do is the check the IDs of the people against the guest list.” This sounds like profiling or a variation of that to me and is much too simplistic. Another person commented that the bad weather may have prompted the gate keepers to allow this couple into the event. If they had a tent for the event, why couldn’t they have had a security tent? Maybe they did. I remember going to see the Vice President once, I had to show several forms of ID just to get into the gate and again to get into the building for the event. However, I want to address the issue of checking ID cards against the guest list.

Why should their credentials be checked when we hesitate to check IDs for voters in federal elections and those of illegal aliens. Furthermore, if an illegal alien couple would have showed up, they could have claimed discrimination if denied entry. They may have even claimed some other type of minority exemption.

I know this all sounds a little ridiculous, but it’s now far from the foolish reality of our day. If checking IDs is required for getting into a state dinner, why isn’t it required for getting a job or for voting? You tell me.

Here We Go Again

Now let me get this straight, three of our NAVY SEALS capture a bad guy during a secret mission and now they are being court martialed? This seems to be just another example of “political correctness” run amuck. Just a few weeks ago, Army Major Nadil Malik Hasan murdered over thirteen soldiers at Fort Hood, TX. Undoubtedly, both of these situations are cousins of the longtime social engineering visited upon the military for decades.

NAVY lawyers should be given an opportunity to recant and drop these ridiculous charges. I applaud the SEALs for forgoing a Captain’s Mast and opting for a court trial. However, being a military fan, I want to offer a way to help them save face. They can say the following:

“After an intensive investigation, we have discovered that there is not enough objective evidence available to charge these men. Furthermore, we plan to give them a medal as a token of our apology and most of all for a job well done.”

After this recent series of fiascos, the military needs to take a hard look at the way it deals with people in combat situations and the allegiance of its members. Each military member takes an oath of to defend the constitution quite often in atmosphere of violent chaos. If military members are to effectively do their jobs, they must feel empowered to do their jobs without fear of retribution, by us!

Fellow citizens, let us unite, support our military and by all means keep our politicians accountable.

Thanksgiving Thoughts

It’s about that time again. Is the turkey ready? Are the relatives in town for a good meal and a some football? Most importantly, have you considered the things for which you can be thankful?

Even in tough economic times, if you can fog up a mirror, you have something for which to be thankful. Many who started this year are no long with us. Their lives have become a part of history past. Yet if you are reading this, you have something for which to be thankful. Let’s do a quick audit.
1-Just being alive gives you another day to be helpful to someone. You may only be able to give a smile, a pat on the back or affirmation but give it…and be thankful for it.
2-We should be thankful for friends and loved-ones. They are part of the mosaic of our lives. Give thanks for them and to them for all they are to you.
3-Be thankful to God, yes God. In an age of continuing secularism, God still loves you and gives you continuing opportunities to be part of his plan…Thanks God!

Well, I am going to practice what I just preached.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING DEAR FRIEND!

Signs of the Times

Giving terrorists the same rights of American citizens is absolutely reprehensible. Mr. Holder and Mr. Obama have made a terrible decision. This upcoming trial will do much to embolden terrorist causes around the world. These men will make a spectacle of our judicial system and do much to promote their radical cause. This change of venue is just one example of the frustrations that many of us feel.

We live in a dangerous world and terrorism only increases that danger. Our transition from a military tribunal to the American court system is a disgrace to true American citizens. This administration’s policies reflect radical 60’s philosophies that actually used our liberties to denigrate our country. If taken to their logical end, these policies will do great harm to this once citadel of freedom.

How then can we win our country back? We must first know what we believe and hold as our values. Secondly, we must become informed on both sides of the issues. Thirdly, we should vote our convictions and convince others to do likewise. Last, in the words of Sir Winston Churchill…”Never give up!”

America, Still A Land of Opportunity

I was born in America and am proud to have all the rights and freedoms thereof. During my sojourn on this earth, I have travelled extensively around the world. In many of the places I have visit, people are more desiring to live here than Americans are to live there. I think Bill Bennet calls it “the gate test.” In other words, if a gate was opened in all of the world’s countries would more people want to come here or go there?

I know we are not perfect but I do also know that the opportunity to succeed separates us from many around the world. I came from an obscure economic situation. However, I took advantage of my opportunities and am living some of the American dream. I see unlimited opportunities ahead not because of the government but inspite of the government. Profit comes when you can provide a good or service for society at large. In the midst of our present political malaise, opportunities are still available. Be encouraged and go forth making your dreams become reality.

Dear Mr. AP

Associated Press
450 W. 33rd St.,
New York, NY 10001

Dear Mr. AP:

I was so disgusted at your “fact check” of Sarah Palin when the Obama administration is doing so much to ruin our country. You never did a “fact check” of his book or any of his writings. If you have can spare 11 reporters to check Sarah, you have too much time and too many reporters on your hand. You confirm my belief that you are nothing more than a de facto public relations arm of the Obama administration.

People of my ilk look with frustration at your unbalanced treatment of Governor Palin.

I thought that unlike Rush Limbaugh, Sean Hannity and Glen Beck you were real journalists…I was terribly mistaken. Your bias is shameful!

You need to apologize for your foolishness and change your ways. Otherwise, you may be relegated to the ashheep of media history.

Disappointedly yours,
  FPP
Frontporchpatriot
Former Democrat
http://www.thefoxnation.com/sarah-palin/2009/11/20/ap-under-fire-palin-fact-check

Votes for Sale

Now let me get this straight, political parties use our money to pay others to vote for their bills? I didn’t believe it until I recently read about monies going into the districts of politicians who voted for a particular bill. This accepted form of bribery should be criminal. Maybe each person has their price. Apparently, this has been going on since day one. Relative to cap and trade and this healthcare fiasco, we are paying for the rope that will be used to hang us. Healthcare is down on the list of things that people really care for…what we need are jobs. Jobs come from small businesses providing a good or service for which people can legally pay. Yet we are hurting businesses through regulation, taxes and general socialistic foolishness.

When will this madness cease? Well, if you don’t get involved, you will be left as a dying carcass on the roadside of history. Get involved by calling writing but most importantly voting in local, statewide and national elections…also remember, if you don’t get involved, don’t complain.

http://www.thefoxnation.com/health-care/2009/11/19/100-million-mary-landrieus-health-care-vote

The AP Fact Check of Sarah Palin

While the Obama administration plays footloose and fancy free with healthcare statistics and budget figures, the AP has eleven of its writers fact checking Sarah Palin’s book, Going Rogue. “This is a shame and a scandal” to coin a phrase from my past. As many mainstream media outlets hang on the edge of bankruptcy because of a lack of readers, these reporters check the facts of a once obscure governor. AP just does not get it! Palin is the darling of conservatism. Her views mirror those of most conservatives while very few conservatives agree with the bilge emanating from the mainstream media. To my horror, I recently read that some media outlets are actually seeking a government bail out…so much for free speech…it’s hard to be objective towards someone who pays your salary.

I wish the AP would do some fact checking of the Obama policies and the bills coming out of congress. With eleven reporters, that would come out to only a couple hundred pages each. However, I am not going to hold my breath because outlets such as the AP are a de facto public relations agency for the very liberal Obama administration. The AP has quickly moved from being a watch dog to being a lap dog.

Sarah Palin and Conservatism

I am continually baffled by the demonization of Sarah Palin by liberals. Here you have a once obscure governor from Alaska being criticized by the mainstream media and every late-night comedian on a near daily basis. Why are we subjected to a diet of “bash Palin” media?

Well, Sarah Palin is a genuine conservative in the ilk of Ronald Reagan. Her views mirror those of most conservatives. Furthermore, she speaks from her heart and not a bunch of political gobbeleygook designed to mislead or deceive. She is the only reason I voted for John McCain. I don’t think liberals get it. Conservatives are sick and tired of our government going left. You don’t need a degree in Economics to realize that jobs are created by the private sector not government tax refunds.

Many of us who have not been politically involved heretofore will be out there trying to get Sarah Palin elected in 2012. For the naysayers who say she is not smart enough…could she do any worse that the present occupant of 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue? Hopefully his socialist policies and healthcare program will not destroy our way of life by 2012. Sarah Palin’s views are refreshing and consistent with those of us who love this great land.

Remembering Veterans I Love

I awoke this morning with a smile on my face and a spring in my step because it was veterans Day. I began reflecting upon the dangers suffered while I was in the service and the friends I lost in various conflicts.

I thought about my late Uncle Jim who served in WWI…yes WWI. He left farm country to go to basic training in South Carolina and serve his country. I remember watching him show me his facing movements when I was a child and he was in his eighties. He was so proud of me when I went into the service.

I thought about my late Cousin Sigmond, who served with General Patton in WWII. Sigmond was a man’s man. He served at West Point as a handyman after getting out of the Army. His greatest story was that of being able to speak to the cadets, when their scheduled was unable to appear. I still tear up even as I write this account. After telling the cadets of his exploits, he received a standing ovation from the future officers. He went on to become a much admired minister and pastor.

I thought about my Cousin Leo, who served in the Korean War. He is still alive and recounts his exploits whenever we sit to talk. One of his favorite stories is of the time he was working on a bridge and was surprised by a visit from General MacAurthur. He still smiles when he tells me the story for the “ump-teenth time.”

I thought about my dear friend Herb. Herb was my mentor in the military. He taught a young troop the ropes and gave me advice that helped me have a successful run in the service. Herb also served in Korea and is still serving his country in various capacities. Words cannot express my appreciation for his wisdom and guidance to a naive country boy.

Each of these men spoke volumes into my life. Their work ethic and their love for this great land causes me to think of each of them many times each year. I make it a habit to contact the ones that still are alive and to revere the memory of those ‘beyond the veil’ each year. If you can walk down safe streets, travel to another state without having to show your “papers,” and vote for the leaders of your country then…THANK A VET!

Diversity and Patriotism

Recently, Army General Casey commented that ‘…diversity is our strength,’ when discussing the murder of thirteen brave Americans by Army Psychiatrist, Major Hasan. His comment and President Obama’s ‘don’t jump to conclusions’ comment made me wonder who is choreographing their speeches. Here you have an Islamic extremist killing American troops in their home base and the head military official and our president spouting politically correct psychobabble. What a horrible insult to the lives of the brave men and women who were murdered as well as to the intelligence of brave Americans who have fought and died for this country!

While diversity may be part of our strength, patriotism is the DNA that gives us the resolve to fight and keep this country free. Imagine, if you will, a big boat floating in dangerous waters. While some are paddling and trying to keep the vessel afloat, others are boring holes in the bottom of the boat trying to sink it. When someone makes the captain aware of these folk, he dismisses it as their right to express their diversity. This story is about as ridiculous as the comments made by General Casey and President Obama! Even the most open minded demagogue would conclude that Major Hasan was motivated by views alien to our strategic aims.

Patriotism seems out of vogue today. Yet I was raised to love this country and believe that anyone desiring to destroy it, should be stopped. While an American patriot does not support, in lockstep, everything we do, patriots hold deeply held beliefs in the tenets of our constitution. Major Hasan should have repeated a similar oath as the one taken from “army.mil” before starting his stint in the Army:

The wordings of the current oath of enlistment and oath for commissioned officers are as follows:

"I, _____, do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; and that I will obey the orders of the President of the United States and the orders of the officers appointed over me, according to regulations and the Uniform Code of Military Justice. So help me God." (Title 10, US Code; Act of 5 May 1960 replacing the wording first adopted in 1789, with amendment effective 5 October 1962).

"I, _____ (SSAN), having been appointed an officer in the Army of the United States, as indicated above in the grade of _____ do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign or domestic, that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; that I take this obligation freely, without any mental reservations or purpose of evasion; and that I will well and faithfully discharge the duties of the office upon which I am about to enter; So help me God." (DA Form 71, 1 August 1959, for officers.)

These words should only be spoken by true patriots because only they will do all they can to make sure they are speaking the truth. If Major Hasan spoke these words, did he really mean what he said? Have we become so diverse that we can withstand men like him who would destroy our brightest and best? Knowing what we know now, why didn’t someone stop this monster?

Well...

Well, the house passed the healthcare bill 220-215 against the desires of most of the American public. I wonder what kind of deals were made and what kind of promises were made using our money? Ms. Pelosi doesn’t mind what happens because her constituency will vote for her no matter what. The blue dogs and those from conservative areas had better start looking at the want ads because they may need employment after the 2010 elections. However, can we stem the tide of the damage from this atrocious attempted takeover of a large part of our economy? I hope we can.

I like most Americans, feel somewhat helpless. I write and call my representatives but they continue voting against the will of the people. What can we do to get these politicians attention? Here are some suggestions:

1-Research the bills and materials before contacting politicians

2-Let them know that you will be personally involved in the next election

3-Start a blog such as this one expressing your opinions

4-Set aside some money to contribute to a candidate who has the same views as you

5-Follow-up on the previous four suggestions

Presidential Excuses for Major Hasan

I want to begin by saying that my family prays for President Obama every day. While I did not vote for him, I want him to lead with wisdom and common sense. Thus far, my desires have not been realized.

With that said, I was a little put aback when I read of his comments admonishing us to not jump to conclusions about the murderer of thirteen people and the injuring of over thirty at Fort Hood. He asked us not to jump to conclusions when he did just the opposite in the Skip Gates incident involving Cambridge Police Sergeant Crowley. Remember how he said “the police acted stupidly?”  Well, how did Major Hasan act? Now we know that e was in contact with radical Islamic factions on the internet. Future revelations will show that this was as much an act of terrorism as what happened on 911.

Mr. President, will you please give Americans the benefit of the doubt to the same degree you give our enemies?

Tribute to the USS New York

Let the enemies of America
    of this one thing be aware

That they fight us at their peril
    as those who only once did dare

Now from ashes as did the Pheonix
    The USS New York has now arose

To be a guardian of freedom
    against the throng of liberty’s foes

Sail on great ship complete your mission
    we all pray for your success

Grace to the crew of this great vessel
    smooth sailing ahead and ‘may God bless!’

Political Correctness Run Amuck Facilitates Murder

The recent terrorist attack by Army Major Nidal Halik Hasan is just another glaring example of political correctness (PC) run amuck. The military has long had a human watch type program for people in highly sensitive positions. How this man could get away with the things he is reputed to have said and remained in the service is baffling. There should be an investigation on all of his reporting officials from the day he entered the service. I remember hearing the story of a liberal professor who opposed the war while teaching on a military base. When base officials heard about this man’s views, they sent someone into his class to verify his anti-war comments. Sure enough, the professor continued talking against the war to his students. In a few days, he was no longer welcomed on that base.

The murderer of over a dozen soldiers should have been kicked out of the service long before he had opportunity to ruin these people’s lives. Furthermore, his superiors should bear some of the blame for allowing him to continue in his position. We have become so sensitive to religions and cultures that we often forget the safety and security of others. This tragedy should be a wake up call to military commanders to do all they can to protect their most valuable assets, people.

The Big Tent, A Bevy of Shifting Convictions

I read with some degree of sadness Senator Lindsey Graham’s comments about his fear of the Republican Party driving away moderates, if it continues going right. He used Mr. Hoffman’s defeat in New York to bolster his point. Well, I beg to differ.

Someone once said “if you don’t stand for something, you will fall for anything.” I believe moderates ultimately don’t stand for something. Back home, anything in the middle of the road gets run over. Mr. Graham’s logic is flawed when it comes to Mr. Hoffman because the real victory is that such an unknown was only defeated by five percentage points, which by the way was the same amount of points garnered by the Republican candidate who gave her support to guess who? The Democrat.

Mr. Graham, I believe anyone who betrays his convictions for acceptance will at minimum be disrespected and at maximum rejected. I am disgusted with Republicans who go to the state house or to Washington forgetting the values of their electorate. Even hypocrites respect a person of convictions. I have discovered that people seem to better recognize reality as they grow older. That’s why a large number of people over 50 are conservatives, they understand a few things:

1-You cannot spend more money than you make

2-Babies come from the union of a man and woman

3-Government works for us

4-When water is dispersed into the wind, someone gets wet

The people who built this great nation went all out. The people who fought WWI and WWII went all out. They had no moderate view of victory…last man left standing wins. Why should we do and accept any less? If we do, moderate will ultimately become right and left will become moderate.

By the way…Mr. Hoffman, we are so proud of you!

Basic Economics and Life in America

Well, I see that unemployment has reached 10.2% and the government continues its socialist policies to spend more than it makes. When will these guys learn that money is created by small businesses not government stimulus programs? A first year economics student know this unless he has been tainted by some Keynesian professor. Keynesian economists have never met a tax they did not like nor a government regulation that made them salivate like Maslov’s dog.

When taxes are cut, people feel free to risk their monies to build existing businesses or to start new ones. Obamanomics puts the government in the place of business and uses onerous regulations to stifle creativity and free market ventures. How long will it be before we realize we are in the midst of a nightmare of increasing horrific proportions. How did we get to this place in history?

1-We allowed Marxists to take over institutions such as our schools, churches and our government.

2-We allowed demonized thrift, creativity and rugged individualism.

3-We humanized God and idolized man.

How can we change this? Well, you tell me!

Is it Just the Economy Stupid?

Well, the Virginia and New Jersey elections are over. I was amused when reading that the polls showed that these elections were not a repudiation of Obama policies but of the state of the economy. Well, it’s ‘six of one and half-dozen of the other’ as some might say. Regardless of this semantical doubletalk, Mr. Obama needs to take note of how people voted. His socialists policies are a threat to most freedom loving Americans over the age of fifty. Many of these folk remember the old Soviet Union and its economic policies which stifled creativity, risk and profit making.


Many seem to feel that the choice is between giving tax cuts to the rich versus more onerous government regulations, such as salary controls for heads of government controlled companies. I personally do not make millions [yet] but I have no problem with people making as much as they possibly can. Amidst all the hoopla of people making millions, there is silence when someone asks about the salaries of athletes or actors. Liberals are silent because many of these folk contribute to their elections and are ideological soul-mates.

One’s ability to garner income is a function of one’s talents, intellect, industry and industriousness to name a few. America is a wonderful place where these talents can come together and literally take one from the ghettos to a penthouse. When our ability to go from one place to another is compromised by our government, we are in no small amount of trouble.

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