Homeless Isn't Hopeless

Giving The Gift Of Life

2012-02-11T05:00:00.000-05:00

The greatest gift that one person can give to another is the gift of life. And every day, organ donors across America give that gift.

But sadly, there are not nearly enough people who make the decision to become an organ donor, and then follow through by registering at organdonor.gov

And every day on average, 18 people die while waiting for an organ transplant. As of today, February 11, there are more than 113,000 people waiting for transplants

The need is desperate. The United Network for Organ Sharing, a non-profit organization which operates under a contract with the federal government, advises that the gap between the number of committed donors and the number of people on the waiting list continues to widen.

From time to time, we post a reminder of both the need, and the ease with which registering can be done. It is important to note that there is no age limit for becoming a donor.

Reasonable Republicans -- Please Speak Out

2012-02-10T10:11:00.003-05:00

Some of the rhetoric being spewed by the Republican Presidential candidates is unworthy of anyone seeking the highest office in the land.

Most recently, Rick Santorum's attempt to draw a comparison between the current Obama administration and the French Revolution is especially offensive--and bizarre. Likening the President's policies to the use of the guillotine is despicable.

To accuse any administration--be it Democratic or Republican--of launching an attack on religion is wrong--to claim to believe it is wrong, and then to foist it on the American people is wrong--dead wrong.

Reasonable Republicans--and there are lots of them who disapprove of such rhetoric--need to speak out and disavow themselves and their party from this kind of talk.

The Rising Cost Of A Cup Of Coffee

2012-02-09T03:48:00.000-05:00

Fuel prices are the subject of many a conversation these days, as they continue to spiral upward.

Gasoline, the fuel that keeps our vehicles running, is an expense that we, as individual consumers, can not control. There's no way we can save now on the price at the pump in the future

But there's another type of fuel--the cost of which we can do something about. That fuel is the fresh-brewed cup of coffee that gets us going of a morning.

Last year about this time, we passed along predictions that coffee prices would be going up sharply, due to disappointing crops in Brazil, Colombia, and Central Ameerica.

Those predictions became reality, and now word is that the cost of the coffee we buy will continue to rise. Ever-incrasing, worldwide consumption puts in play the old economic law of supply and demand--further assuring that coffee prices will remain high.

But unlike the fuel we put in our car, we can do something about the fuel we put in our body--the coffee we drink.

We can buy now, for future consumption. We can stock up now, before prices go any higher, and while some super markets are still running specials, and a few brands are still offering coupons.

A can of coffee may well be two or three dollars higher in price a few months down the road, So buy now to save later.

Cans of coffee purchased today will still be good for consumption a year, or more, from now. There is a "Best to use by" date on the bottom of all cans. Additional time can be added to the shelf life by placing unopened cans in the fridge or the freezer.

Come time to open and use the stored coffee, it will have remained "good to the last drop".

The GOP Presidential Ticket -- Romney & Santorum

2012-02-08T08:41:00.009-05:00

Politicos and pundits are abuzz with speculation today, following Rick Santorum's resurgent sweep, and Mitt Romney's February fade.

After winning all three Presidential preference contests yesterday--in Minnesota, and Missouri, and Colorado--Santorum is being touted today, by ultra Conservatives, as the long-awaited answer to the more moderate Romney.

And suddenly there are countless media types, politicians, and ordinary citizens who now see Santorum as a serious threat to Romney's Presidential hopes.

Only a day earlier, most of them were sounding taps for Santorum's candidacy--with numerous predictions that the former Senator would quit the race soon after what was projected to be a disappointing Tuesday.

Despite his resurgent sweep, however, this is where Santorum might as well cancel his dreams--those that would have him our next President.

He will remain in the race--possibly, but not probably--even forcing the issue all the way to the convention late summer. And his newly acquired momentum will bring in fresh--and desperately needed funding.

But there won't be enough days like yesterday to make Rick Santorum the Republican nominee.

Romney's Political Action Committee will use its vast financial resources--which Santorum won't come close to matching--to launch an attack ad campaign similar to the one that stopped Newt Ginghrich in his tracks. And the Republican primaries where Independents can participate will tip the scales too much toward Romney.

But Tuesday's results are a game-changer in a different, yet positive way for Santorum.

Whereas poor finishes yesterday would have ended his campaign and rendered him irrelevant, Santorum's victories may propel him on to the short list for Romney's running mate.

There has not been, nor will there be, anything between Romney and Santorum so bitter as to preclude serious consideration of a Romney/Santorum ticket.

Primary rivals can come together to make a winning team. Example A is the match made in Republican heaven that gave the White House to Ronald Reagan, and the Vice-President's residence to George H W. Bush.

The Romney/Santorum combo could ease the strain between the Republican establishment and the Tea Party folks. It would bring together a Washington insider and a Washington outsider. It could heal the wounds of a Republican party now deeply divided.

A political prediction--a GOP Presidential ticket of Mitt Romney and Rick Santorum.

Why Not Get Rid Of Social Security?

2012-02-07T04:00:00.003-05:00

Incredible as it seems to me, there is a never-ending call for eliminating altogether, or drastically overhauling, the social security system.

The hue and cry comes from politicians who believe that all Americans should be responsible for saving the monies necessary for their retirement years.

In theory, that sounds logical; but two words argue against the idea--human nature. The working poor--those who need social security the most--will always have financial "emergencies" that preclude accruing reserves.

When the family car conks out, or a family member calls out for help, or when any one of a number of possible needs arises, human nature takes over and says, "Here it is. Use the money that we've set aside. We'll worry about retirement later".

That's why we started the social security program in the first place--to set aside money that couldn't be touched. Getting rid of social security might be okay for the working wealthy, but not for the working poor, for whom it was created.

Does President Obama Deserve Four More Years?

2012-02-06T11:52:00.005-05:00

Yesterday, during an interview with NBC's Matt Lauer, President Obama said that he deserves a second term. In the same sentence, however, the President added that there is still much work to be done.

Half of America agrees with him. Half of America does not. An ABC News/Washington Post poll, released this morning, shows the country evenly divided on the matter--49 percent to 49 percent.

But some of those, who do not think the results are there to warrant reelection, nonetheless still prefer President Obama to any of the Republican candidates. The current President is favored over his closest challenger, Mitt Romney, by six percentage points, 51 to 45.

I find good reason for placing myself in the group that believes the President does deserve a second term. And I definitely prefer him as President over anyone the GOP has to offer.

The effects of The Great Recession are still being felt, and millions of Americans are still hurting; but the economy is steadily, and undeniably improving. Much of the credit must go to President Obama.

The Republican Presidential candidates would have folks believe that recovery would have come sooner, and would be even stronger, were it not for Obama policies.

These are the same Republican wannabes who opposed helping the auto industry, and who claim the stimulus effort was a failure.

Truth is, coming to the aid of "Detroit" saved an entire industry, and the independent, non-partisan Congressional Budget Office calls the stimulus package a success.

Polls continue to show that the vast majority of Americans, including most of those among "the one percent", agree with the President's intention to allow the Bush tax breaks to expire, and to have the wealthiest of Americans pay their fair share in taxes.

President Obama's well-known list of accomplishments in the field of foreign affairs seals the deal for his reelection.

Yes, there is much yet undone on the President's original agenda; but his efforts thus far, despite being dealt a poor opening hand, make him deserving of the four more years he needs to finish the job.

Taking Time To Take In The Trees

2012-02-05T04:00:00.002-05:00

(Editor's Note: After receiving a second request, we are posting again an article which originally appeared last summer.)

How often we are urged to take time to smell the roses. And in today's hectic, hurried world, how seldom does an opportunity arise to do so.

The advice to take time to smell the roses is another way of suggesting that we need to occasionally slow down, and look around us; so as to fully appreciate the beauty that is everywhere, and so as to better enjoy this wonderful life we are given.

This morning, if only for a little while, I smelled the roses. I found myself enjoying--appreciating--the beauty around me. To be more specific, I found myself gazing at, and marveling over the trees in the woodlands that surround the apartment building where I live.

There are palms and live oaks and evergreens. There are deciduous species such as dogwood, maple, hickory and sweet gum. There is greenery that is with us year round, but there are also trees that provide a brief period of autumn color.

Gainesville, where I live, is known as "the city of trees", and it has been recognized for 28 consecutive years as "Tree City, U.S.A.", by the Arbor Day Foundation.

But my love for trees precedes my time in north Florida. It dates back to an early age, when an English and Literature teacher named Laura Pell instilled in her eighth grade students an appreciation for trees, through literature. After her class, I never took for granted the beauty of the wooded hills and valleys in my native West Virginia.

"I think that I shall never see, a poem lovely as a tree" has come to mind often over the years, and again this morning I thought of Laura Pell and the poem by Joyce Kilmer that she had us commit to memory.

I've thought of that poem upon first seeing that giant banyan tree on Maui in Hawaii, and the yellow aspens of autumn in the rockies, and the breathtaking beauty of the dogwood and magnolia trees come early spring in the south, and the towering hickory trees around the Hermitage in Tennessee.

And while enjoying the trees of north Florida this morning, I thought about the last line of Kilmer's poem, "Trees".

"Poems are made by fools like me, but only God can make a tree."

BP -- A Reader Was Right, And I Was Wrong

2012-02-04T00:20:00.002-05:00

For months following the catastrophic oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico, I remained critical of British Petroleum, and I frequently restated my belief that BP would never fulfill its promise to "make things right".

As it turns out, it appears now that I will be proven wrong. Living as I do near the Florida Gulf coast, I see on a regular basis TV ads that update BP's cleanup progress, and reinforce the BP commitment to stay on the job until the job is done.

Especially impressive is the ten-year commitment to pay for continuing evaluation of the situation by independent scientists. And by all other accounts, BP is doing all it can to make amends.

I was wrong. But, in commenting that a change in top management and other factors would have BP doing the right thing, regular reader, Demetrious, had it right.

And I am very happy that his prediction is the one that has proven to be correct.

Why The Emphasis On Politics?

2012-02-03T02:11:00.004-05:00

Someone told me yesterday that I was losing them--"them" meaning a loyal blog follower and a few of her friends.

"You've been putting too much emphasis on politics", she said.

She's right, and she's wrong, according to my way of thinking. Her observation is correct--there has been an emphasis on politics over the past eight or nine months. But "too much"? That's something for individual readers to decide.

The reason, the rationale, for the frequent political coverage and commentary is the belief that, at this time, politics is at least as important a subject as any other.

This is an election year--a Presidential election year. The ratings for the 19 Republican Presidential debates aired thus far are proof positive of the public's eagerness for political news and commentary.

But the most important fact of the matter is that politics--especially Presidential politics--has a direct effect on every area of American life. Who we vote for determines what we are voting for. And what we vote for determines the circumstances and conditions under which we will live.

A wide range of varied, important issues, including--but not limited to--taxes, interest rates, government regulations, job creation, gay rights, abortion, health care, gun control, foreign aid, national defense, and immigration are all directly affected by who we vote for.

Everything about everyday life is determined by politics.

When Harry Truman Came To Town

2012-02-02T02:27:00.002-05:00

"Give 'em hell" Harry Truman has been the subject of previous columns--one of which was about a remark the late President made, many years ago, during a visit to my hometown, Wheeling, West Virginia.

His words immediately came to mind yesterday, while listening to Republican Presidential candidate Mitt Romney double down on an incredible, insensitive, politically-dumb, and most revealing statement.

Back in '52,'ol Harry was on a whistle-stop train tour, campaigning for the Democratic nominee, Adlai Stevenson. Truman was in the final months of his own Presidency, and he had a warning for voters, saying that, "if the Republicans get in, you better watch out neighbor".

Well, the Republicans did get in, and the country actually did quite well under President Dwight Eisenhower--whose popularity was the beneficiary of a period of peace and prosperity. But that was then and this is now.

Harry Truman's words, his warning, ring truer in 2012 than they did when he spoke them. And it's time to come out of the political closet, and say those words again, for all to hear.

"If the Republicans get in--you better watch out, neighbor!"

That's because it's likely that the Republican nominee for President will be former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney, and the possibility of his winning the White House should be a frightening prospect for nearly all Americans--all but the wealthiest one percent.

Yesterday, Romney casually said something that was immediately condemned by Democrats, and criticized by Republicans. Romney told Soledad O'Brien on CNN that he "was not concerned about the very poor".

Looking at the interview in total is to see that there is no way Romney can say the words in question were taken out of context. What he said is what he meant.

Soledad O'Brien questioned his choice of words--giving him the opportunity to retract his statement, or redefine his position. Instead, he doubled down--repeating what he had said. And later, when questioned by reporters, Romney stumbled through what amounted to a tripling down of his original remark.

Yesterday's dubious declaration is just one more addition to a long, ever-growing list of quotes that show just how out of touch Mitt Romney is with most of the American people.

Romney said yesterday that he wants to concentrate on improving the lives of the middle class. He said he wants to focus not on the very poor or the very wealthy, but on the middle class--the "90-95 percent".

Someone needs to get through to Mitt Romney that the very poor constitute much more than five to ten percent of the American people. He needs to be reminded that many of those he considers "middle class", are in reality the working poor.

Someone needs to call him out on his claims regarding job creation. When he boasts about the success stories of Staples and Sports Authority and Burger King, he is obviously oblivious to the fact that these corporations provide mostly minimum wage jobs, which are held by the working poor, and do not help the middle class.

Someone also needs to loudly and boldly question Romney about his economic plan, which, according to independent analysis, gives more to the rich through tax savings, and takes more from the poor by cutting sorely-needed programs.

And then, when Mitt Romney brags that he's a self-made man, who didn't inherit what he has, someone needs to bring up private schooling, an Ivy League education, and the money that got him going in business. Romney's life has always been a life of privilege; a life that has kept him out of touch with the middle class--and "the very poor".

Come November's Presidential election--if this Republican gets in, you better watch out, neighbor.

Florida -- Where Playing Politics Pays Off

2012-02-01T04:34:00.003-05:00

Florida has always attracted more than its fair share of national attention--due mostly to its favorable climate, which is tropical in south Florida, and sub-tropical in the central and northern parts of the state. Florida is known as the Sunshine State for good reason.

But back in November of 2000, all eyes were fixed on Florida because of something else. Back then, Florida's long-lasting Presidential election fiasco provided the state with a wealth of free publicity that helped attract new business and vacationers.

Florida took a well-deserved rap for its election problems; but ever since, Governors, legislators, and other powers-that-be have recognized that politics can mean big bucks for the state's economy, in general, and the state's coffers, in particular.

This election cycle, Republican leaders gambled with their GOP primary, and they won. Yesterday's Republican primary election was held earlier than the Republican National Committee had wanted, and as a penalty for defying the RNC, Florida's delegate count was cut in half--giving only 50 delegates to the winner.

But the gamble--that the earlier January 31 primary would be a greater attention grabber--has paid off. Up to yesterday, the first three primary contests had been won by three different candidates--making Florida's a game-changer primary.

That in turn brought more national interest, and more of the free publicity that helps the tourist industry, and encourages businesses to head south.

But that's not all. The Republican convention is slated for Tampa next summer, and all the world, as well as America, will be watching. More free publicity.

Then comes the Presidential election, and leading up to the voting on November 6, Florida will be a center of attention, as one of the most critical and hotly contested swing states. More free publicity.

Though it ranks low on the list of states in many areas, there's no denying that Florida leads the way in making politics pay off.

Time -- Precious Time!

2012-01-31T05:00:00.004-05:00

Somewhere, sometime long ago, someone first asked that now famous question, "What would you rather have--money or health?"

There are many who say, "Give me the money, and I'll worry later about my health."

And there's some logic to that, for in today's world, having money can often help provide good, or better health.

At least as many people, however, are apt to say, "Give me health; for if you have your health, you have everything".

And there's also some logic to that way of thinking; for what good is the money, if you don't have your health?

I would beg to differ with both schools of thought; because I believe that there is something more important than either money or health. That is time.

What good is money without sufficient time to use it? And how important is good health, without the time to enjoy it?

Memo To Mitt -- How About The Rest Of The Story?

2012-01-30T02:21:00.003-05:00

After numerous questions from the media, and repeated demands from his rivals, and even some jeers from a debate audience, Mitt Romney finally released his tax records for 2010 and 2011.

This move, however, hasn't let him escape the troubled waters that have washed away his attempt at a squeaky clean image. Those troubled waters are now murkier than ever.

The two years covered by the material released are not enough to get a clear picture of Romney's financial dealings. That's because the records for 2010 contain information that raises eyebrows, and more questions about his financial modus operandi in previous years.

The facts that Mitt Romney had, until 2010, a numbered Swiss bank account, and offshore transactions with financial institutions in Bermuda and the Cayman Islands are troubling admissions--especially since the front-running Republican Presidential candidate did not reveal the "Swiss" connection in another form of financial disclosure last year.

The electorate is entitled to know now--not after his nomination--why a man who has amassed a vast fortune found it necessary to place his wealth somewhere, anywhere, outside the United States.

It's time for Mitt Romney to give us the rest of the story.

About The GOP's MIA. Presidential Candidates

2012-01-29T01:17:00.001-05:00

The race for the Republican nomination for President took another twist and turn this weekend, when two of the four candidates still standing went MIA-- departing the state of Florida, just days before a most important Presidential primary takes place on Tuesday.

A weird twist in the campaigning is Rick Santorum's trip north to spend time at home doing his taxes. Ron Paul has also turned his attention to the north--spending time in Maine to ratchet up support for that state's Presidential caucuses next month.

With the Florida primary being a winner-take-all contest, candidates Santorum and Paul are apparently conceding the 50 delegates at stake to either Mitt Romney or Newt Gingrich.

The MIA move might be called a strategical retreat--saving their limited resources so as to better fight another day.

America's Pakistani Predicament

2012-01-28T12:41:00.005-05:00

No matter who wins the November Presidential election, the United States/Pakistan relationship will remain a foreign policy nightmare with no easy solution.

Topping the list of problems with our supposed-to-be friend and military ally is the growing concern over Pakistan's nuclear capability, and the safekeeping of nuclear weapons.

One other area of concern, which is less publicized, and would be considered by many to be of lesser importance, is the charge of treason placed by the Pakistani authorities against a friend of freedom and a foe of terrorism.

Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta is now speaking publicly about the unfair proposed prosecution of Dr. Shakeel Afridi, whose purported crime is assisting the United States military in locating and taking out Osama bin Laden.

The Doctor organized a vaccination campaign in the area of the bin Laden compound, as a way of getting DNA to confirm the presence of the Al Qaeda leader.

Leon Panetta's concern for the Doctor comes with his implied belief that someone high up in Pakistan's government or military had to be aware of bin Laden's whereabouts.

Should Dr. Afrida be convicted of treason, the United States will be in a most difficult position, and the world will be watching to see if America acquiesces to an "ally", or comes to the aid of a true friend.

Newt's Debate Comeuppance

2012-01-27T11:29:00.012-05:00

Last Monday's blog posed a pertinent political question: "When Will Gingrich Get His Debate Comeuppance?"

Well, it didn't take long to find out. And it was CNN, the target of a Newt Gingrich tirade a week earlier, which double-teamed the Republican Presidential candidate, and exposed him as the compulsive liar that he is.

During the past nine months, and through 19 Republican Presidential debates, candidate Newt Gingrich has deflected unwelcome questions by chastising moderators and castigating the media. And in most instances, his Oscar-worthy outrage has elicited audience support--including a standing ovation last week in South Carolina.

After that ovation, which was, in effect, a put-down of moderator John King, Gingrich stated emphatically that there were personal friends--witnesses--who had tried unsuccessfully to appear on ABC to refute the damaging claims of an ex-wife during an interview. According to Gingrich, the names and the request to appear were given to ABC, but the network declined.

Days later, John King spoke live with Gingrich for clarification, and the former Speaker reiterated his claim that names of witnesses, along with the request to be heard, had been given to ABC. This reconfirmation eliminated the possibility of any misspeak or misunderstanding. Gingrich stood by his original statement.

Meanwhile, however, ABC debunked Gingrich's story, and after CNN repeatedly asked for the names of the supposed witnesses, Newt Gingrich's campaign manager acknowledged that there never were any such witnesses eager to appear.

Wolf Blitzer completed the double team last night during the Florida debate, when he stood his ground to prevent Gingrich from escaping a question by attacking the moderator. This time there was no audience support for Mr. Gingrich.

The CNN double team finally gave Newt Gingrich his debate comeuppance.

School Lunch Programs -- Then And Now

2012-01-26T11:10:00.012-05:00

After all these years, I still have fond, vivid memories of my grammar school lunch program. The very use of the term "grammar school" tells you that was a very long time ago.

But even now, I can almost taste some of those lunches--food that was filling and delicious--and nutritious.

The soup and sandwich combos--chicken noodle soup with an egg salad sandwich, or cream of tomato soup with a grilled cheese sandwich--were favorites. As was the once-a-week spaghetti with meat sauce and salad.

There was always an apple, orange, or banana on the tray, along with a sliver of cake or pie, or perhaps a cookie. The beverage was a glass of milk.

Over time, the type of school lunch I enjoyed fell victim to the fast food craze. A filling lunch became more fattening. Lunch was just as delicious, but not always as nutritious. Often it was a soda instead of milk.

There were guidelines that were intended to assure proper nutrition, but the guidelines were abused. One flagrant example of cheating on nutrition got a lot of attention last year.

A slice of pizza was being listed as a vegetable--this phony claim because the pizza was topped with a little tomato sauce--two tablespoons worth.

Now, however, the Department of Agriculture has come up with better-regulated menus that provide adequate nutrition.

As of next July 1, school lunch programs nationwide must offer fruits and vegetables with all meals. There are limitations on the amount of sodium, saturated fat, and trans fats in the food that is served. Milk is back on the tray--the lowfat variety.

The new USDA approach to school lunch programs is aimed at making the food served to school children both appealing and healthy. With more than 17 million American children currently classified as obese, the new guidelines are an example of an especially beneficial form of regulation.

Today's GOP--Where Have All The Good Guys Gone?

2012-01-25T11:20:00.009-05:00

Since coming of age to vote, I've cast my ballot for President without regard to party affiliation.

Some election years I've voted for a Democrat; and some election years I've voted for a Republican. Sometimes the incumbent President got my vote, and sometimes it was the challenger that I voted for.

So there is no strict party loyalty involved when I say that I look upon the current crop of Republican Presidential candidates as the sorriest collection of frightening losers that the GOP has ever foisted on the American electorate.

Learning what they would do once entrenched in the White House should give the heebie jeebies to Mr. and Mrs. average American. That's because much of what they would do runs counter to the thinking of a vast majority of Americans.

But there's something else disturbing about these candidates--something beyond their collective dubious past; something beyond their policies and proposals.

They all have personal flaws in their makeup that are there to see in their modus operandi. They are bad guys--bad because of their choice of language and their propensity for lies. They are nasty; they are mean.

It hasn't always been this way with the GOP. Dwight Eisenhower, Gerald Ford, Ronald Reagan, Bob Dole, the first President Bush--all competent and all gentlemen. All saints--compared to the sinners of 2012.

When Will Gingrich Get His Debate Comeuppance?

2012-01-23T15:03:00.006-05:00

It could be delivered tonight, at the hands of NBC's Brian Williams; or it could be inflicted Thursday evening by CNN's Wolf Blitzer; or it could happen in another debate sometime in future.

But I have a feeling that, sooner or later on the primary trail, a debate moderator is going to ambush Republican Presidential candidate Newt Gingrich with a well-planned gotcha question that will set the former Speaker back on his heels--stumbling and fumbling through an embarrassing response.

Through the seventeen Republican Presidential debates to date, Gingrich has used unwarranted attacks on the media, in general, and the debate moderator, in particular, to direct attention away from questions asked.

He has claimed to have been "appalled" by questions he didn't like. and has used the word "despicable" to describe the actions of debate sponsors and moderators.

In several instances he has been successful in turning the audience against the moderator--using inflammatory language to get showstopping approval from the audience.

I don't believe that the media is as upset by Gingrich's attempts to humiliate moderators, as it is by the Speaker's attempts to avoid answering pertinent questions that are posed so as to give voters information they have a right to know.

Count on it. Sooner or later, Newt Gingrich will get his debate comeuppance.

General Motors And The General Election

2012-01-21T12:53:00.008-05:00

General Motors is once again the world's leading automaker, and that fact takes away one more talking point for the GOP in the general election.

Most Republicans ranted and raved when "Detroit" received taxpayer money to stay afloat through the worst days of the great recession. The federal bailout of General Motors, engineered by the Obama administration, was the focus of attention, and contention. Republican Presidential candidate Mitt Romney was one of the loudest voices of opposition.

But now, figures released this week reinforce the idea that General Motors was worth saving. GM is once more popular and profitable. The company sold nine million cars and trucks last year, and its continuing financial strength has allowed repayment of some of the monies it received in the bailout.

Because of the bailout, America still has an automaking industry, and the hundreds of thousands of jobs that, without the bailout, would have been lost forever

Meanwhile, there has been nary a mention of the auto industry bailout during recent Republican Presidential debates.

By the time the general election campaign commences, this issue will have shifted from a talking point for the Republican nominee, to a talking point for the incumbent President.

Thank Heaven For A Prying Press

2012-01-20T11:04:00.011-05:00

Newt Gingrich's tirade against the media in the opening minutes of last night's Republican Presidential debate drew a standing ovation from the South Carolina audience.

My immediate reaction was quite different. It was one of worry. I am increasingly concerned about the way many politicians are trying to turn the electorate against a prying press. They are obvious in their attempt to control what the press prints, and the public knows.

The word prying usually has a derogatory connotation, but I believe that it is not only the appropriate word--but a good word as well--when it is applied to the media.

That's because we need a prying press. We need journalists with the guts and gusto to dig out the truth; to expose false or misleading statements; and to make public the pertinent information that allows voters to know what, as well as who, they are voting for.

Newt Gingrich was able to blunt a sharp question about his personal life by claiming that the press has been attacking Republicans and protecting a Democratic President. The mostly conservative audience ate it up.

The truth is that investigative reporting has focused on members of both political parties. Just ask disgraced and deposed former Democratic Congressman Anthony Weiner.

The question that Newt Gingrich vehemently objected to was fair game because there have been so many incidents in his past that are about judgment and ethics and trust.

One of those incidents, that is indisputable fact, is Gingrich's hypocritical pursuit of the impeachment of President Clinton on moral grounds, while at the same time, Mr. Gingrich was in the midst of an illicit affair of his own.

Another incident, which is a matter of record, is his exit in disgrace from a position of leadership in Congress. For that transgression, he paid fines totally $300,000. And there's more--much more. The list of incidents is long and revealing.

How Newt Gingrich has lived his life is most likely how he would live his Presidency. That's why questions about his personal life are valid ones. That's why voters are entitled to know about incidents concerning trust.

There was another somewhat milder tirade last night that is worth mentioning, because it also lends credence to the need for a prying press.

Rick Santorum used the word "disgusting" to describe President Obama's treatment of veterans when it comes to budget cuts. He said that the President's budget cuts "hit veterans".

The indisputable truth,--a matter of rercord--is that the President has actually proposed increases in federal spending on veterans.

Without a prying, pressing media to keep them "honest", politicians would be giving us a never-ending flow of misleading statements and outright lies.

For Romney -- This Is The Week That Wasn't

2012-01-19T11:58:00.005-05:00

Only a few days ago, it appeared that Mitt Romney, in future, would look back on this week as the week that was--the week that was the one when he dispatched, or rendered harmless, his remaining rivals.

That's because, only days ago, the Republican front-runner enjoyed smooth sailing, as he confidently headed for his third consecutive victory of the primary season.

There was an air of invincibility about him, and it seemed inevitable that his momentum and money would assure him the Republican nomination for President sooner rather than later.

All of a sudden, however, it appears that, in future, Romney may look back on these days as the week that wasn't.

The recount of votes in the Iowa caucuses takes away that win, and the bragging rights that provides momentum. And now Newt Gingrich's South Carolina surge threatens to take away another win.

Gingrich has closed the gap to near a statistical tie in the polls, and Rick Perry's endorsement today will add some of his single-digit support to the Gingrich tally.

Meanwhile, Mitt Romney is feeling the heat over his tax rate and his tax records. His disclosure that he enjoys a tax rate of only about 15 percent puts a phoniness on his claim to be a man of the people.

This revelation, along with other remarks he has made recently, paint him as the one-percenter he is, and portray him as a man out of touch with the middle class he claims to understand.

His arrogance in refusing to release his tax records has caused even a staunch supporter, New Jersey Governor Chris Christie, to state that Romney should come clean.

Tonight's Southern Republican Presidential debate presents further problems for Romney.

There will be two fewer candidates than there were for the last debate, and with only four participants, more time will be given, and more attention will be paid, and more questions will be directed, to Mitt Romney.

And then there is the moderator, John King. He is one of the best, and just as David Gregory did during last Sunday's debate, John King will ask the tough questions, and most likely get some revealing answers.

It all adds up, for Mitt Romney, to the week that wasn't.

Reasons For Regulations

2012-01-17T01:22:00.010-05:00

One of the talking points for Republican Presidential candidates this election cycle is their opposition to federal government regulations. And the GOP, as a party, has worked nationwide to effect deregulation at the state level.

The anti-regulation stance makes for good sound bites and applause, and is a popular position to take; but the fact of the matter is that most government regulations are vitally necessary. There is good reason for them, and two news stories the last few days bear this out.

The cruise ship disaster in the Mediterranean is said to be due to human error, and a lack of proper crew training--bringing into question cruise ship regulation, or lack of regulation. Strictly enforced, well-developed regulations may well have prevented a tragedy.

The apple juice story reveals a danger to American consumers that is due to a lack of regulation.

More than 70 percent of the apple juice consumed in this country comes from China, where arsenic based pesticides are used in farming. Unacceptable levels of arsenic are being found in that apple juice.

The need is obvious for regulations stringent enough to protect consumers. But at present, the Food and Drug Administration inspects only two percent of the food imported into the United States.

When the case is made for deregulation, consider the possible cost.

For Jon Huntsman -- Too Little, Too Late

2012-01-16T12:44:00.006-05:00

In most of life, timing is everything. That's especially true in politics.

In the past week, Republican Presidential candidate Jon Huntsman was endorsed by New England's most influential newspaper, The Boston Globe, and by South Carolina's largest newspaper, The State.

But this support came too late, and this morning Huntsman suddenly and surprisingly withdrew from the race for the GOP nomination for President--opting to bow out only five days before the next primary.

Had these endorsements come a little earlier, or had the New Hampshire and South Carolina primaries come a little later, the Huntsman story might have had a happier ending.

The former Ambassador to China, and Utah Governor, also won approval from the Wall Street Journal for his economic plan, and he was generally recognized as being the only Republican candidate who had extensive experience in both domestic issues and foreign affairs.

What's next for Jon Huntsman is now dependent on who wins the White House come November. If it's Mitt Romney, a prominent position in a new administration might be in the offing. If it's President Obama, a long look may be given to another run in 2016.

Martin Luther King Day -- It's About The Message

2012-01-15T00:05:00.002-05:00

A year ago, on Martin Luther King Day, this space was given to the subject of progress--the progress that has been made in tolerance and understanding since that afternoon in 1963, when Dr. King said,

"I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed....that all men are created equal".

Sadly, as this year's day of remembrance approaches, I'm hearing all too many derogatory remarks about this man who pleaded for equality, while preaching non-violence and love.

I am reminded, by Dr. King critics, of the allegations of indiscretions that have evolved from whispers to public comments--seemingly louder and bolder with the passage of time. "He was no saint", so says a neighbor.

True enough. But who is a saint? We could mention Popes and Preachers and Presidents who were not without sin, but who made this world a better place for their having been here.

Dr. Martin Luther King may well have been far from perfect, but he gave us a message that is nigh unto perfect, and it is for this that we set aside a special day to think about progress--that which we have made, and that which remains a dream.

Journalistic Efforts Worth Saluting

2012-01-12T10:49:00.018-05:00

As one who has enjoyed a lifelong love affair with journalism, I find great pleasure in the journalistic accomplishments of others.

In recent days, I have found myself in awe of several members of the media whose work has been especialy noteworthy. And yes, I admit to being more than a little envious of their skills and achievements.

David Gregory of NBC turned in a brilliant performance last Sunday morning as the moderator for the Republican Presidential debate in New Hampshire. Evidence of a job well done is the praise he has received from his peers.

I've been watching Presidential TV debates since the first one in 1960. And since the second one was aired in 1976, I've missed very few. Never has a moderator seemed better prepared, or more in tune with what was pertinent, than David Gregory last Sunday.

But it is what was achieved as a result of that preparation and the pertinent questions that elevates David Gregory to a place head and shoulders above the rest of the moderators this election cycle.

He followed a boring Saturday night debate with an obvious plan to enliven the proceedings, and more important, to get beyond the sound bite replies, so as to get real answers. David Gregory succeeded, and gave us the best debate of the 15 to date.

Soledad O'Brien is the host of a new and different kind of early morning program on CNN--"Starting Point". The difference is in the varied venue--a diner, a restaurant, or other AM gathering place.

Her guests share a breakfast table, and the barely audible background noise adds an excitement and authenticity to the telecast that is not possible in a studio.

Two weeks into the new show, Soledad has aired from Iowa, New Hampshire, and this morning, from a diner in lower Manhattan. This election year will find her breaking bread with guests and viewers in towns and cities throughout the country.

Although the setting is informal, and much of the conversation is casual, Soledad injects a seriousness into every telecast with hard-hitting, incisive interviews. No softball questions from Soledad.

"Starting Point" is something new that I dont think will soon grow old.

And then there's Dr. Sanjay Gupta. He's been around for a while, but some of his varied, recent work makes him worthy of mention as a unique, and very good journalist. What is unique is his resume.

Sanjay is best known for his role as chief medical correspondent for CNN. What makes him know of what he speaks is his background as a neurosurgeon, and as a professor of neurosurgery.

Dr. Gupta is a best-selling author, and a columnist for Time Magazine, and a special correspondent for CBS' "60 Minutes". He has been a White House advisor--to Hillary Clinton in the 90s; and he was offered the position of Surgeon General of the United States by the Obama administration.

He has spent considerable time abroad in war zones, and in disaster areas--after Hurricane Katrina, and after the earthquake in Haiti, and following the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. His work on these occasions was as both journalist and doctor.

In 2011, Dr. Sanjay Gupta was named as one of the ten most influential celebrities in America by Forbes Magazine.

There has always been, and there always will be, a lot of criticism directed at the media, and some of it is justified.

But there have always been, and there always will be, exceptional journalists to be admired, and to be appreciated for the outstanding work that they do--journalists such as those above.

About Home Invasions And Gun Control

2012-01-10T23:29:00.001-05:00

Four and a half years ago, in a small town in Connecticut, a home invasion resulted in the brutal rape, and senseless murders of a mother, and her two daughters, aged 17 and 11.

Those heinous crimes have remained in the news, while the two assailants were brought to trial, and were convicted, and now face the death penalty.

At the time of the Petit family tragedy, a bill to do away with the death penalty in Connecticut had passed in the legislature and was awaiting the Governor's signature. This one horrific event caused the Governor to veto the bill.

It long seemed to many, myself included, that the Petit family home invasion was a unique happening, a rarity. And, for a while, I shared with many a naive belief that the swift justice effected in this case, and the attendant publicity, would serve as a deterrent to home invasions.

But the reality is that home invasions are on the rise. Some homes, and some families are too easy a target for the criminally intent to resist. Forcibly entering and robbing a home is bad enough, but in all-too-many cases, sexual assault and murder are part of the crime spree.

In the last ten days, two crimes, more than a thousand miles apart, have brought gun control into the conversation about home invasions.

On New Year's Eve, in Oklahome, an 18-year old girl, and her three-month old baby were home alone. She was grieving the loss of her husband, who had succumbed to cancer on Christmas Day.

An intruder, somehow aware of her situation, tried to gain entrance, and eventually set about breaking down the front door. When he had succeeded, he entered the house with a knife in his hand.

The girl retrieved her husband's gun, and shot the intruder dead before he could reach her. An accomplice waiting outside was subsequently captured.

Without the gun, this 18-year old mother, and her baby, would have been at the mercy of two assailants.

Last Friday morning, in Lake Butler--a small town near where I live in north Florida--two men forced their way into a home where they murdered a 69-year old husband, and sexually assaulted his 39-year old wife.

The intruders, who have since been captured, had a gun. The couple they killed and assaulted did not.

Controlling guns is a good thing. Prohibiting guns is not.

More About "Pious Baloney"

2012-01-09T10:25:00.005-05:00

An in-your-face complaint from my ever-antagonistic neighbor, two questions via email, and a comment posted following yesterday's blog all tell me that I need to elaborate on my article titled "Pious Baloney -- A Memorable Moment".

In all four cases, I sense that these folks, and perhaps a lot more readers, may have missed the debate during which the expression "pious baloney" was used.

Early of a Sunday morning is a most unusual time for a debate, and TV ratings will probably show that the 9:00 AM start caused countless voters to miss what was a most compelling debate--perhaps the best for viewers, and definitely the worst for front-runner Mitt Romney.

Some political pundits have predicted that the words "pious baloney" will be used throughout primary season and the general election to describe Mitt Romney rhetoric.

Newt Gingrich used the expression at the beginning of a lengthy and effective personal attack on candidate Romney, and Gingrich's "put down" was all the more effective because Romney was at a loss for an adequate comeback.

Mitt Romney took a verbal beating that seemed to resonate with the audience, and his overall poor performance is reflected in the first polls taken after the Saturday night and Sunday morning debates.

He has seen small, but significant losses in his poll numbers the last few days; and while he will almost certainly still come in first in the New Hampshire primary tomorrow, the images of his Sunday morning troubles may linger with voters and slow his momentum.

There was another effective "put down" of candidate Romney Sunday morning. This one came early on and set the tone for Romney's miserable morning. John Huntsman proved himself an excellent debater by coming from a defensive position to make the former Massachusetts Governor look ridiculous.

Throughout the 15 debates, rival candidates have seldom received audience approval for what they have said to discredit the front-runner. But when Huntsman finished undressing candidate Romney, the live audience erupted with applause that included hoots and hollers of approval.

Mitt Romney still has a lot of momentum and money and still looks to outlast the competition and win the Republican nomination. But Sunday's debate is a reminder that, "it ain't over 'til it's over".

"Pious Baloney" -- A Memorable Moment

2012-01-08T12:30:00.006-05:00

Ever so often in politics, there comes a remark that makes a lasting impression, and is recalled during future election cycles.

Thirty-two years ago, during a debate, Republican Presidential candidate Ronald Reagan shot down and shut up incumbent President Jimmy Carter with the words, "There you go again".

That simple expression resonated with the media and with the voters, and the great communicator went on to win the Presidency. Those words became part of Ronald Reagan lore, and they have been recalled often ever since.

There have been other classic remarks, other such memorable moments through the years, and Newt Gingrich provided another today during the Republican Presidential debate when he asked fellow hopeful Mitt Romney to cease and desist with his "pious baloney".

That "put down" is sure to make the Presidential debate highlight reel.

What A Vote For Rick Santorum Means

2012-01-07T12:27:00.005-05:00

The greatest satisfaction from most any type of writing comes from knowing that you have made someone aware of something important that he or she might otherwise never have known.

In politics, it is making people aware of what they are voting for, and the consequences of their votes.

All too often, voters cast their ballots for candidates who come across as, and actually are honest, caring people--but who are good people with terribly bad ideas.

Such a candidate is Republican Presidential hopeful Rick Santorum, who has been surging in the polls. He is sincere, honest, caring, intelligent, hard-working.
All the very best of adjectives apply to Rick Santorum. He is a good man.

But I don't believe that many of those who have already voted for, or who are planning to vote for Rick Santorum, can possibly be aware of just how extreme are some of the policies and proposals he would pursue once entrenched in the White House, with free access to a bully pulpit.

I doubt that many of Santorum's supporters are aware that his socially conservative views go well beyond his pro-life stance. Rick Santorum is on record as opposing all forms of contraception. He opposes contraception--period.

It boggles the mind to consider the ramifications of a Commander In Chief urging all citizens to forego birth control.

Hopefully, as the Republican field of Presidential candidates is winnowed down to a single survivor, a nominee--a prying, persistent press will continue to cause the candidates to reveal, in their own words, where they actually stand on all the issues.

Economic Good News Is Bad News For The GOP

2012-01-06T14:18:00.004-05:00

The Department of Labor gave Americans good economic news today. But, for some Republicans, that good news will be seen as disappointing news.

The unemployment rate dropped to 8.5 percent--the best number in nearly three years.
And the economy added 200,000 jobs last month.

There is no longer talk of a double dip recession and leading economists agree that we are headed in the right direction.

Today's report is not what Rush Limbaugh and Mitch McConnell, and other Republican leaders wanted to see. An improving economy greatly improves President Obama's chances for reelection.

Limbaugh once famously said he hoped President Obama would fail, and Mitch McConnell has declared that his number one priority as Senate Minority leader is to see that the President has but one term.

It's looking more and more like neither man will get his wish.

Politics On A Saturday Night And Sunday Morning

2012-01-05T10:24:00.010-05:00

There is much that is new in Presidential politics this time around. Example A is the frequency, and emerging importance of Presidential debates.

This election cycle, we watched thirteen debates before the first votes were counted. It was said by many at the outset that there were way too many debates scheduled, and that the electorate would soon tire of politics, and tune out the candidates.

Not so. The Republican Presidential debates rapidly became as much about entertainment as education and the national audience grew to a surprising seven million viewers. And now, we have a most unusual weekend of politics coming up--the likes of which this nation has never seen.

It's a Saturday night and Sunday morning of political theatre. Yep, this Saturday evening we have another prime time debate courtesy of ABC News. But what's different is that this 9:00-11:00 PM debate is followed just ten hours later by a Sunday morning debate on NBC.

This unprecedented scheduling of back to back debates gives the electorate a unique opportunity to see the candidates operate under pressure for a lengthy, sustained period of time.

They will field questions from a superb group of moderators, who all enjoy a reputation for tough, pertinent questions, and for not allowing candidates to sidestep an issue. Diane Sawyer and George Stephanopoulos will do the honors Saturday night, and David Gregory will be in charge Sunday morning.

It will be interesting to see who best meets the challenge, and who, if anyone, exits the ordeal appearing calm, cool, and collected--looking Presidential. It's desperation time for some of those who will be on stage, and the gloves will be off.

What better entertainment for a Saturday night and Sunday morning.

Republican Reassessments

2012-01-04T11:59:00.003-05:00

After a long night given to determining the winner of the Iowa caucuses, today is for reassessing where the candidates are now positioned, and what the future might hold for each.

Two hopefuls have considered giving up hope. Michelle Bachman has taken the overnight hours to read the tea leaves, and then, as expected, has suspended her campaign.

In actuality, she has quit the race; but by using the word suspend, she remains legally able to continue the fundraising necessary to pay off her staff and any other debts.

Rick Perry suspended his campaign last night; but by this morning, a change of heart had him back in the race and off to South Carolina for a last-ditch effort in the primary on January 21.

Mitt Romney is in the enviable position of having little to reassess. After finishing first in Iowa, he appears to be a lock for a big win in the New Hampshire primary next Tuesday.

Today he adds John McCain to his long and impressive list of endorsements, and his momentum assures that supporters will be lining up to add big bucks to his war chest.

Rick Santorum will be feeling his way in New Hampshire and it's likely that a reassessment of campaign strategy will be an almost-daily occurrence. After coming from nowhere to nearly tie Romney in Iowa, Santorum has to find a way to appeal to a different kind of voter.

In Iowa he had church support--he was the favorite of evangelicals and social conservatives. In New Hampshire, however, religion is much less of a factor.

Newt Gingrich is openly reassessing his campaign strategy as to being the good guy among the contenders--staying positive and foregoing the use of attack ads. He got hammered in Iowa by the negative ads of his rivals.

His last day in Iowa augers well for a scrappier Gingrich in New Hampshire. Calling Romney a liar is a pretty good indication that it's about to be no more Mister Nice Guy.

Ron Paul, like Romney, has little to reassess. But in Paul's case, it's because he holds to longstanding, rigid policies, proposals, and positions that he will not back off of, or in any way change. He will sink or swim as the Ron Paul of old.

And then there is Jon Huntsman. After giving all of his time, effort, and money to campaigning in New Hampshire, while virtually ignoring Iowa, he needs a strong finish next Tuesday to remain a viable candidate, and move on.

It looks now like a disappointing week ahead for Huntsman, and unless he can pull off a Santorum-like surge, he will be gone. And then there are five.

Attack Ads Are A Necessary Evil

2012-01-02T04:00:00.005-05:00

We all grew up being told, "If you can't say something nice about someone, then say nothing at all".

That's good advice for most areas of life, but not for politics. In the political arena, it's better to be truthful than nice.

There's not a whole lot I like about what Mitt Romney is spouting these days, but I do agree 100 percent with something he told Wolf Blitzer of CNN yesterday regarding attack ads.

Romney said that attack ads are a longstanding, necessary part of the political process--important because they test in a number of ways those who would be Commander In Chief. He implied that attack ads help assure that it is the strongest and most qualified candidates who survive.

I further believe that attack ads are important because they serve as a kind of investigative reporting that often alerts voters to vital information about the candidates.

If there were no attack ads this election cycle, voters would not be so aware of the flaws, faults, failures--and in some cases the past sins--of several Republican Presidential candidates.

Staying positive may sound nice, but an occasional dose of truthful negativity is a necessary evil in politics.

Happy New Year!

2012-01-01T04:28:00.002-05:00

Now, 2011 belongs to the past,
As all four of the seasons have flown by so fast.

Most of us had both good times and bad,
Giving us memories both happy and sad.

This column, too, had its ups and downs;
Some days making smiles, some days causing frowns.

But thanks to the readers who choose to be here,
We continue to write about things we hold dear.

So with 2012 already at hand,
There's something I'm hoping that you understand.

Agree or not, with what I might say,
You are welcome--I respect you--and I hope you will stay.

Yes, I hope you will join me for the columns to come;
But a far better wish is where I'm coming from.

May you have all the best that the Good Lord can give,
In the New Year ahead, and for as long as you live.

--your cuz'n Bill

Some Thoughts About The Bachman Demise

2011-12-30T11:06:00.006-05:00

Six months ago, when Michelle Bachman won the Iowa straw poll, and ascended to the top of the polls, I wrote a column titled, "For Michelle Bachman, This Is As Good As It Gets".

The Minnesota Congresswoman, and long-running Republican Presidential candidate, has proven me right; for her standing in the polls and her popularity with voters have been on the decline ever since. And now it looks like Wednesday, the day after the Iowa caucuses, might be her swan song.

She is polling but six percent in Iowa, and seven percent in New Hampshire. In the last 48 hours her two top Iowa staffers have defected. She now appears headed for a sixth-place finish in the caucuses Tuesday evening.

It all adds up to the end of Michelle Bachman's Presidential aspirations--for now, and forever. It also raises the question as to her future influence in The Tea Party. She is the founder and leader of the Tea Party caucus in the House of Represtatives.

Michelle Bachman is all but gone. And now there are six.

A Few Thoughts About "Occupy Des Moines"

2011-12-28T09:22:00.016-05:00

Every time it looks like the Occupy movement is fading into yesterday's news, a new development puts it back on the front page.

The latest Occupy target--Des Moines, Iowa--puts the focus on the Republican Presidential candidates, as they wind up their campaigns for the Iowa caucuses next Tuesday.

This is an especially good opportunity for the Occupy folks to get the attention of the American people; as just about every news organization there is will have reporters in Iowa in the week ahead.

While the demonstrations will be mostly directed at Republicans, it is important to remember that the Occupy movement has no party alignments. The people involved are from all over the political and cultural spectrum.

All of the original Occupy Wall Street issues will be in play this week. There will be speeches made, and questions raised about corporate greed and economic inequality.

The Republican Presidential candidates will be verbally assaulted over their opposition to raising taxes on income over a million dollars.. They will be demonized for not speaking out in favor of having the wealthiest among us pay their fair share of taxes.

There are a couple of issues on my mind which I haven't heard mentioned much by the Occupy people, and which I am hoping will be entered into the conversation this week.

There is no better time than now, in Iowa, to be talking about campaign finance reform. Millions of dollars are being spent by special interest groups to saturate the Iowa airwaves with political ads.

Money talks, and those who have the most usually win elections. Iowa is a perfect example. Newt Gingrich doesn't have the money to counteract the attack ads sent his way by Mitt Romney, and that shortage of funds will likely cost him a win.

This is a perfect time, also, to be pointing out stunning new information about the wealth of those "serving" in Congress.

Nearly half of our Senators and Representatives are millionaires, and their wealth has increased dramatically over the last quarter century, while ordinary citizens have actually seen a decrease.

No wonder so many lawmakers are so obviously out of touch with what is going on in the lives of their constituents.

It's time to vote those lawmakers out of office, and perhaps Occupy Des Moines will be the catalyst to get it done.

Americans Are Seeing Beyond The Gloom & Doom

2011-12-28T03:52:00.004-05:00

Listen long enough to the Republican Presidential candidates, and you're sure to get depressed.

They collectively present a dismal picture of how things are; and they put forth dire predictions of how things will be in future--if one of them doesn't move into the White House in January, 2013.

Americans, however, don't seem to be buying what the Republicans are selling. A report released Tuesday tells the story.

The Conference Board says that consumer confidence is substantially higher for the second month in a row. The report reveals the largest two-month gain in consumer confidence in 20 years.

The Conference Board is a non-profit, non-partisan research group made up of more than a thousand business executives nationwide. They put out a monthly overall confidence index that shows what people are thinking.

Dictionaries tell us that confidence means having trust or faith in something, and contrary to what Republican candidates and leaders are saying, Americans are providing proof positive of their confidence in the future of the economy by way of increases in consumer spending.

Looking for the "why" to the increase in consumer confidence, economists cite the stock market being up, gas prices going down, and the drop in the unemployment rate.

Is The Tea Party Becoming Passe?

2011-12-27T09:20:00.004-05:00

Voters nationwide are bemoaning the dysfunctional governance of this "do nothing" 112th Congress.

They are further dismayed by the thought of being stuck with most current members of Congress beyond the next election. Specifically, they are suffering from buyers remorse for having voted in so many Tea Party members last time around.

It's the Tea Party which has wreaked the most havoc in Washington the past year, and it's the Republicans, in general, and the Tea Party, in particular, that get the bulk of the blame for Congressional ineptness.

The electorate is in an especially foul mood, and sentiment is growing to "throw the bums out". Democrats need a pickup of just 26 seats to take back the Speaker's gavel, and regain control of the House of Representatives, and that's a reachable number.

In the last Congressional election, more than twice that number of incumbents, 58 to be exact, were voted out of office. Recent surveys by Gallup pollsters, and Pew Research, show that voter anger is at the same high level now, as it was back then.

What happened in the Congressional election of 2010 could very well happen again in the national election of 2012--only this time around, it's the Republicans who are likely to feel the wrath, and get the boot.

Gallup and Pew Research are two of America's most prestigious political polling organizations. Their almost-identical findings reveal that the anti-incumbent feeling is growing, and that it's much more anti-Republican than anti-Democrat.

A Gallup Poll finds that 76% of voters believe that most lawmakers should not be reelected, and a Pew Research Poll finds 67% not favoring reelection.

Important, and highly unusual, is the finding by both polls that some 40% of voters have already decided that they do not want to send their own representative back to Congress. Whatever the remaining 60% decide, it's bad news for incumbents.

Perhaps the most startling revelation is that 70% of Republicans favor voting most members of Congress out of office. That statistic is incredible, considering that Republicans hold the majority in the House of Representatives, and nearly half of the seats in the Senate.

The almost-identical findings of the polls also reveal that by a nearly 2-1 margin, voters blame Republicans in Congress for the gridlock. Voters also see the GOP as the party which is less capable, less honest, and less willing to compromise.

All this begs the question, "Is the Tea Party becoming passe'?

"Life Is Just A Bowl Of Cherries"

2011-12-27T02:44:00.005-05:00

There's an old country tune that could have been written with me in mind.

"In The Corner Of My Mind There Stands A Jukebox". And it's like there really is a jukebox there, because most anything that happens reminds me of a song.

Like everyone, I occasionally see a bumpy stretch coming up in the road ahead. But before I can dwell on any of those bumps in the road, my Guardian Angel comes to the rescue--slipping some coins into that juke box, and punching in an appropriate song to allay any fears, and lighten my load.

Quite often, the song that comes front and center is, "Life Is Just A Bowl Of Cherries". Seconds later I'm my usual upbeat self.

And as 2011 makes way for 2012, it's a perfect song for these troubled, difficult times. Its history is a reminder that today's worries and woes are not the worst ever. It was written in 1931--buoying the spirits of folks at the start of the Great Depression.

As to the words in the title, the dictionaries tell us they mean, "Life is carefree". My favorite part of the lyrics is about loss--be it wealth, health, or love.

"The best things in life to you are just loaned;
So how can you lose, what you never owned."

Next time you feel a need for some inner comfort, and a little pep in your step, go to Google, type the title, and sing along with "Life Is Just A Bowl Of Cherries". Bet you'll feel just a little bit better.

The Day After Christmas

2011-12-26T08:00:00.001-05:00

'Tis the day after Christmas, and all through the land,
Folks have differing thoughts 'bout the season at hand.

Some sigh with relief that it soon will be past,
While the thought that its over leaves others aghast.

However you feel, you should be of good cheer,
For more special times so soon will be here.

Holidays, events, and birthdays galore.
Fun times with family and friends by the score.

Then as surely as the seasons will all come and go,
Once again we'll have Christmas -- most welcome I know.

While there may be some, who that last line will hate,
Your old cuz'n Bill says, "I hardly can wait!".

A Christmas Wish...

2011-12-25T02:28:00.003-05:00

Sometimes, less is better, and this is one of those times.

I could write paragraph after paragraph about my best wishes for you and yours. But all that writing and all that reading is unnecessary, because my best wishes can be boiled down to one special thought, and two wonderful words......

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!!

--your cuz'n Bill

What Was It Really Like -- That "Silent Night"?

2011-12-24T09:16:00.003-05:00

This time of year, nativity scenes depict a beautiful setting on a night of peace and tranquility--when "all is calm, all is bright".

But the mental image we have of the birth of the Christ child brings us so much joy, that we seldom pause to consider what it must have really been like that night of nights.

Consider that it was winter and that it was cold. How uncomfortable it must have been for a young woman who had just given birth. How difficult and frightening it must have been while trying to keep warm a newborn baby--to keep the chilly night air from infant lungs.

And the shelter? A stable. A place for keeping farm animals. And if there was no room in the inn, then that stable must surely have been full of foul-smelling stock. And there could have been little in the way of privacy.

It all doesn't add up to a situation conducive to sleep or rest for mother or child. It must surely have been a very long night.

Just imagine, too, the stress that must have been present on that journey to Bethlehem, and then beyond--traveling crowded roads with a newborn child. It took strong people to get through that night and that journey.

Did the Good Lord select a man, and a young woman, who were already strong of body and spirit; or did the Good Lord take two very ordinary people, and give them the strength and guidance that was needed?

There will always be many unanswered questions about that very special event that occurred some 2,000 years ago; and there are those who will always remind us that we do not know with any certainty the details of the night Christ was born. And that is true.

But whether we take every detail as provided by the Bible as fact, or not, it is a wonderful feeling to believe that there was a night, O Holy Night, that changed the world and gave us hope.

Oops! Sorry About That

2011-12-23T11:13:00.005-05:00

Thanks to Sharon Anderson for alerting us to a mental error in writing Tuesday's blog about the President's reelection prospects.

Michelle Obama was mistakenly typed. It should have been Michelle Bachman.

My apologies to the First Lady, and to readers.

Here's hoping I can meet John and Sharon Anderson in the not-too-distant future and offer thanks in person.

Home For The Holidays

2011-12-23T04:00:00.000-05:00

There's no place like home for the holidays.

But again this year, there will be millions of Americans who can't make it home, or have no home to go to.

For many of our military men and women, it's Christmas far from home. All too many of them will be putting themselves in harm's way so that the rest of us can enjoy the holiday in relative peace and tranquility.

Then, there are the countless homeless Americans who will spend Christmas on the street, or in the woods, or wandering aimlessly about.

I don't believe that folks who have never experienced being away from a "homey" atmosphere at holiday time can ever fully appreciate the longing in those who can't be home, or have no home.

I've experienced that longing, and I'm glad I did. It makes me appreciate all the more the happy home I now enjoy.

And it gives added pleasure to finding another coin or two for the Christmas kettle.

A Win-Win Situation For Democrats

2011-12-22T13:30:00.003-05:00

The battle over extending payroll tax cuts is looking like a win-win situation for Democrats.

The obstacle to passage of the extension is a relatively small group of far right Republican members of the House of Representatives. At this point, the extension awaiting approval is for two months.

The President, Congressional Democrats, the Republican Senate Minority Leader, most Republican Senators, many House Republicans, much of the media, and the vast majority of the American public are all urging this relatively small group of mostly Tea Party members to back down and pass this urgently-needed short term help for 160 million Americans.

The mounting pressure will likely force those who have been refusing to approve the extension to acquiesce and approve the measure. In doing so, they will be searching for a way to save face, and limit the damage they are causing to the Republican brand.

They could switch horses midstream and go for a full-year extension, instead of the two-month extension awaiting a vote. This, they could say, is evidence of their desire to help the middle class, and proof that they are not only for the wealthiest of Americans.

A full-year extension, however, is what the Democrats originally wanted, and would be seen by most observers as a win for President Obama.

If the extension should be for just two months, all the better for the Democrats. They still win and are seen as the party that forced the issue.

And also of importance is the fact that an extension of only two months would keep the issue alive for further debate that will keep reminding the American people as to who is most responsible for dysfunctional governance in Washington.

Going Through The Christmas Season

2011-12-22T10:22:00.001-05:00

Most of the time, going through the Christmas season makes for a wonderful time of year. For most of us, it's the favorite time of year.

But for some of us, Christmas is fraught with sad memories of Christmases past, or worries about Christmas present. It can be the loss of a loved one, an illness, financial concerns, or estrangement from family or friends.

Then--"going through" the holidays becomes "getting through" the holidays. It all depends upon life experiences and the situation at hand.

And how we view Christmastime can change in a heartbeat. A time of year that has long held beautiful memories, can suddenly become a time of pain.

There was a Christmas Eve when I witnessed such a change. It was years ago, when I was working in Washington, and was on my way home to be with family.. I had flown to Pittsburgh en route to West Virginia.

On arrival at the Pittsburgh airport, there was time to spare before meeting up with the ground transportation that would complete the trip home for the holidays. I stopped by the airport lounge, and full of the Christmas spirit, I plopped happily onto a stool, and immediately said "Merry Christmas" to the gentleman next to me.

He managed a faint smile and replied, "Thank you, but I lost my wife last year at this time. It won't be much of a Christmas".

Over the years, I've enjoyed "going through" more than my fair share of happy holiday seasons. There have been, however, times when it was emotionally difficult just "getting through" Christmas.

But this I know. There will always be happy memories of Christmases past, that I can conjure up to more than offset any future Christmas that might in some way be painful.

The Republican Rift

2011-12-21T12:38:00.002-05:00

It's about time. Actually, it's way past time for rational Republicans to step forward and berate ultra conservative, and Tea Party members of the House of Representatives.

But finally, voices of reason are being raised by some GOP leaders to protest the "my way or the highway" position of the far right--a stance that has rendered Congress incapable of doing the people's business.

Senators John McCain, Richard Lugar, and Scott Brown are among respected Republicans who have called the actions of House leaders "irresponsible".

The obstinacy, the refusal to compromise has been going on for far too long, and the current stalemate over the payroll tax cut extension appears to be the last straw for some GOP leaders.

And it may well be the last straw for the American people, as polls taken the last few days indicate that House Republicans are taking the bulk of the blame for the ineptness of Congress.

Remembering Those Who Have Died Homeless

2011-12-21T11:52:00.003-05:00

Today at 3:00 PM, in Key West Cemetery, more than a dozen persons who died while homeless in the past year will be remembered.

The remembrance services will be conducted by the Florida Keys Outreach Coalition, near the vault that the homeless advocacy organization purchased four years ago--to provide a final resting place for the homeless and penniless.

Today is the 22nd annual National Homeless Persons Memorial Day, and advocacy groups in communities across the country will pause for a moment to memorialize homeless persons who have passed away in 2011.

There is a significance in the date for the remembrance. This is the first day of winter, and the longest day of the year--an especially difficult time for those without shelter.

Here, in the midst of the holiday season, Homeless Memorial Day is a good time to think about those less fortunate, and to take a few moments to count our blessings.

"The Thrill Of Hope"

2011-12-21T11:48:00.000-05:00

Most everyone has a favorite Christmas carol. Mine is "O Holy Night".

It's been that way since childhood, and the music and the lyrics excite me as much in 2011 as they did more than 60 years ago, when first I heard it sung.

It was at a Christmastime school assembly. I was 10 or 11 at the time, and Shannon Haugh was a couple of years older. I have no recall of Shannon before that afternoon, and I never saw, or heard from, or about her, after that day.

But in just three or four minutes, she gave me an indelible memory with her breathtaking rendition of "O Holy Night". While she was singing, and for a few seconds after the last note, the silence was deafening. And then the audience erupted in applause--in appreciation for what they had heard.

I've thoroughly enjoyed other versions of this classic carol, but none as much as Shannon's. I can still see the face, and hear the voice, and feel the emotion.

There must be countless other people worldwide for whom "O Holy Night" is very special. And I wonder if some of them think, as I do, about four words in the song--"The thrill of hope".

For that is the true meaning of Christmas--hope.

About The President's Second Term Prospects

2011-12-20T14:37:00.006-05:00

Soon after President Obama's inauguration, Republican Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell said that his first priority in the next four years was to make certain that Barack Obama would not be reelected.

Conservative talk show host Rush Limbaugh said he hoped Obama would fail. Republican Presidential candidate Michelle Bachman seldom speaks without promising that Barack Obama will be a one-term President.

But despite being dealt a bad hand when he took office, the President has enjoyed some success both at home and abroad. And Americans seem to appreciate his efforts.

There's good news today for the President's reelection campaign. CNN is reporting that President Obama's approval rating is at 49 percent, and trending upward.

When asked how they feel about Barack Obama personally,76 percent say they like him. This would seem to indicate that the vast majority of Americans are pulling for this President to succeed.

Reports and predictions of President Obama's political demise have been greatly exaggerated.

"Ring Those Christmas Bells!"

2011-12-20T04:20:00.000-05:00

On my way into the super market yesterday, the sight and sound of a Salvation Army Christmas kettle took me back to another Christmas season--long ago and far away.

Way back in the fifties, in West Virginia, our HI-Y Club, a high school offshoot of the YMCA, was called upon to man a Salvation Army kettle during the holiday season.

We were given the busiest location in downtown Wheeling, and we were provided with a covered booth and a p.a. system, and what was then called a "record player".

What a time we had--ringing those bells and greeting folks and thanking donors and playing Christmas carols that could be heard for blocks up and down Market Street.

And when the day was over, how satisfying to be invited into the bank to watch as coins were sorted and the money was counted. We were given the opportunity, albeit in a very small way, to help folks we did not know.

Those bright red Salvation Army kettles, that now raise money worldwide, are the result of a modest beginning; as the very first kettle was simply a crab pot that was placed on a dock in San Francisco in 1891.

Then, as now, the money raised was used to provide holiday meals, and make Christmas a little brighter for needy families, as well as to provide other services year round.

As I left the market yesterday, and passed again that bright red kettle, I exchanged Christmas greetings with a young lady who was enthusiastically ringing a bell.

On the way home, I found myself wondering if some day, years from now, that young lady would remember her Salvation Army Christmas time with the fondness that I do.

(Editor's note: This story contains excerpts from a blog that appeared on December 16, 2010.)

Term Limits -- Yes Or No?

2011-12-19T12:01:00.004-05:00

Once again, term limits is a subject of interest--and controversy.

The advisability of term limits for Congress is an issue that has been brought up by two Republican Presidential candidates in recent debates.

Texas Governor Rick Perry is proposing a part-time Congress, which would get part-time pay. The state of Texas now operates with a part-time legislature.

Former Ambassador to China, and two-term Utah Governor Jon Huntsman is urging an immediate change to term limits for Congress.

Both candidates offer convincing arguments for their point of view, and the two-term limit for America's President has worked well. But Congress is a different animal.

The biggest complaint about the way Congress is currently elected and serves, is that entrenched, long-serving Representatives and Senators accrue too many perks and too much power.

This is all-too-often true, but possibly correctable. It is the committee chairmanships that seniority dictates be given to the longest-serving lawmakers that provides most of the power and much of the perks.

Rotating chairmanships without regard to time in office would help preclude the power and prevent the perks. Congress would then retain the wisdom, and benefit from the experience of its Congressional senior citizens.

Christmas Gifts That Keep On Giving

2011-12-19T10:22:00.000-05:00

Santa Claus has always been good to me. Perhaps it's because he knows that I have always believed in him.

Yep, I'm one of those fortunate folks who believes in what I can not see, and I find that idea both comforting, and completely rational. I can't see God or Heaven either, but, like most people, I still believe. It's a feeling that's hard to explain.

So, yes, I do believe in Santa Claus, and I am so grateful that in recent years he has been coming early with fantastic presents. Santa didn't have these gifts in his bag, and they aren't gifts he could wrap, and they didn't come from his workshop.

Last year at this time, Santa arranged with one of his helpers to bring me the gift of better vision. Dr. Hazem Samy, Director of Neuro Opthamology at the University of Florida, brightened my Christmas through surgery that others wouldn't, or couldn't do.

This year, Santa again came early--a few weeks ago--when he dropped off two helpers to make my Christmas merrier, and to provide continuing joy long after the holidays are past.

Carol and Heidi brought with them the gift of laughter. While marvelously full of fun, Carol is also good for interesting conversation. Heidi not so much. She just tilts her head a bit and sort of smiles. Heidi is a schnauser.

How wonderful are the gifts that keep on giving.

(Editor's Note: This article is a revised version of a blog originally published December 15, 2010.)

It's Beginning To Feel A Lot Like Christmas

2011-12-18T05:00:00.003-05:00

For most of us, Christmas week brings mixed emotions.

The holiday comes on so fast, and there never seems to be enough time in the day. Then all-too-often there isn't enough money to match our means with our Christmas wishes.

But there is such a wonderful upside to Christmas that lack of time or money doesn't have to matter. There's lights and there's music. There's family and friends. There's that special feeling we call the Christmas spirit.

Again this holiday season, stories about Christmas will appear in this space each day through December 25. It is a fervent Christmas wish of mine that you might enjoy reading them as much as I have enjoyed writing them.

Following is a personal favorite Christmas story from a year ago--about a little girl named Virginia.

Yes, There Really Was A Virginia!

2011-12-18T03:00:00.004-05:00

Years after the now-defunct New York Sun newspaper published an editorial titled, "Yes Virginia, There Is A Santa Claus"--doubts emerged about the journalistic masterpiece.

The editorial, written by Francis Church, appeared September 21, 1897, in response to a question from a little girl. Eight-year old Virginia O'Hanlon wanted to know if there really is a Santa Claus.

The doubts that emerged about the editorial had nothing to do with whether there is a Santa Claus, or not. The questions that arose were whether there really was a Virginia, and if so, did she really write the letter.

Many people found it hard to believe that an eight-year old girl could have composed something so beautiful; so well-worded.

That there really was a Virginia O'Hanlon was eventually proven beyond a shadow of a doubt, through records that confirm her birth, in 1889, and her death, in 1971.
Further research revealed that Virginia O'Hanlon graduated from Hunter College, and received a Master's degree from Columbia University, and obtained a doctorate from Fordham University. Records also indicate that she became a teacher, and then a principal, before retiring in 1959.

But even after it was proven that there really was a Virginia, doubts remained about the veracity of the letter. Did this eight-year old child really write it?

The fact that Virginia was, indeed, the author, was finally authenticated by an appraiser in 1998, and the letter has been valued at $20,000. to $30,000.

So, ye of little faith, know that there really was a Virginia, just as surely as there really is a Santa Claus.

by William Laney, December 13, 2010

The Occupy Movement Takes A Right Turn

2011-12-17T14:56:00.003-05:00

I've been waiting--and hoping--for the Occupy movement to take a right turn, and finally they have. Finally, the Occupy people are on the right track.

What they are doing now is the right way to go. They are off their butts sitting in parks and they are instead marching. They are now protesting the right way--the way that assures them continued, and growing support among the American people; among all of the 99 percent they represent.

And they are now going after the right people--those in government who have the power to effect change. More specifically they are going after the political right--lawmakers who are soft on corportate greed and who refuse to make the wealthiest among us pay their fair share.

I so enjoyed seeing video of clean-cut, well-spoken Occupy people peacefully demonstrating on Speaker of the House John Boehner's doorstep.

Way to go 99 percenters. Keep it up. Going after the far right is the right way to go.

Did Someone Say " Running Mate"?

2011-12-16T13:20:00.007-05:00

Okay, so South Carolina Governor Vikki Haley is not the first, but only one of many prominent Republicans, to endorse Presidential hopeful Mitt Romney.

And even though Romney trails Newt Gingrich badly in South Carolina, the endorsement should not be so surprising since Haley endorsed Romney in 2008, and Romney returned the favor by endorsing Haley in her victorious campaign for Governor.

So what then makes this particular endorsement more important than most? The answer is the possibility that Governor Haley could be Romney's running mate should he secure the Republican nomination for President.

Such a move would certainly help balance the ticket--a guy from the north and a gal from the south. More important perhaps, for Republicans, it would add a Tea Party darling to a ticket headed by someone labeled as an establishment candidate.

Bad News, Big Trouble For Newt Gingrich

2011-12-16T12:44:00.002-05:00

The timing couldn't be worse for Newt Gingrich.

The word this morning that a stunning total of six persons formerly associated with Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac have been charged with securities fraud by the Securities and Exchange Commission comes only hours after Newt Gingrich was lambasted at last night's Republican Presidential debate for receiving a whopping $1.6 million dollars from Freddie Mac.

Rival Presidential hopeful Michelle Bachman accused candidate Gingrich of influence peddling, and she was relentless in making a strong case for wrongdoing before a national TV audience. Her repeated charges had probably already inflicted some damage to Gingrich's campaign even before this morning's announcement.

As the day wears on, it will be interesting to find out how other Republican candidates and leaders, as well as the media and political pundits react. For Newt Gingrich, this could be the hit so many Republicans had been hoping for.

Sioux City's Debate -- The Morning After

2011-12-16T10:42:00.003-05:00

When it was all over last night--after four hours of pre-debate predictions and "what to look for", and then the main event, and finally the post-debate post-mortems, and anointing, I had but one regret, one problem with the final Republican Presidential debate before the first primary votes are counted.

I found myself wishing that the network telecasting this especially significant debate had been CNN or ABC or CBS or NBC--anybody but Fox News. That's because Fox is the only one of the bunch I've mentioned which is openly partisan.

The most blatant example of conservative leanings during the debate was the beating given Ron Paul over his stance on the Iran nuclear issue. The Texas Congressman's tip of the hat to President Obama for his handling of the threat, was obviously especially galling to the conservative moderator..

In the spin room, after the debate, Fox's Sean Hannity was all about beating Obama as he spoke with five of the Republican hopefuls. He was far from an unbiased interviewer. He was a Republican cheerleader.

As for the candidates, Fox anointed Mitt Romney as the winner simply because he emerged unscathed. I would agree, and add that Romney appeared less nervous than in recent appearances, and was well-spoken throughout the evening.

Newt Gingrich took some serious hits--mostly from Michelle Bachman. The Congresswoman had Gingrich on his heels with her unrelenting pursuit of Gingrich's Freddie Mac history. It was enough to assure the loss of some ground in the polls.

Ron Paul scored well with the audience on domestic matters, but there was no applause when the questions turned to foreign policy. Still, I disagree with those political pundits who think Ron Paul hurt himself with his comments on Iran. I think that his differentiation between isolationism, and non-intervention, which he favors, will get him by, and prevent serious damage.

Rick Perry was this debate's comeback kid, and amazingly, he continues to turn the infamous brain freeze in a previous debate into a plus. His Tim Tebow remarks offered the only comedy relief of the night, and were probably worth a few points in the polls.

Michelle Bachman has a much-needed outstanding performance, and actually displayed intelligence to match her background and resume. She could pick up whatever support Gingrich loses.

Rick Santorum brings to mind the old adage that "nice guys finish last". I disagree with much of Santorumn's thinking, but he is so obviously a well-intentioned, truly good person, that it is hard not to feel sorry for him.

But whatever it is, and I have no idea what it might be, Rick Santorum just hasn't clicked with voters. He has spent more time in Iowa than any other candidate, but will almost certainly finish close to last in the Iowa caucuses January 3. He sounded good last night, but for naught. Too little--too late.

Jon Huntsman got what he wanted--exposure to the national TV audience, and his appearance may help with viewers in New Hampshire, where he hopes to finish strong in the January 10 primary.

Now, for the candidates, it's back to the campaign trail. And now, for voters and viewers, it's welcome time off from politics--time for the holidays.

A Debate Is Not A Place To "Occupy"

2011-12-15T13:58:00.003-05:00

The significance of tonight's Republican Presidential debate is enough to assure an exciting evening. No help in that regard is needed from the Occupy movement.

This thirteenth major debate is the last one prior to the Iowa caucuses, when voting counts for real. And for each one of the seven remaining candidates, this is a critical point in time.

Going in, Gingrich, Romney, and Paul are in a virtual dead heat in Iowa; and second-tier candidates Perry, Bachman, and Santorium are capable of surprising the pundits with a top three finish in the Iowa caucuses January 3.

Only Jon Huntsman, who has not campaigned much in Iowa, has a firm grasp on where he will finish--dead last. But he will be hoping that his appearance on stage tonight will help him in New Hampshire, where he expects to become a factor in the nominating process.

Each debate to date has had its share of moments to remember, and there will surely be more this evening. The seven Presidential hopefuls and a quartet of Fox News moderators are enough to make things interesting. Nothing more is needed.

But Iowa authorities believe that there will be some additional, unwanted excitement. They are saying that the Occupy movement is planning an appearance--inside and outside the debate hall. They are so sure of an interruption that they are talking about responding "when" and not "if" it happens.

Tonight, in Iowa is neither the time nor the place for an Occupy demonstration. This debate is too important to American voters to be upstaged by protesters.

Protesting the proposals and policies of candidates is a part of the political process, but it should be done at rallies on the campaign trail.

Not tonight.

Disappointment With The Democrats

2011-12-15T09:34:00.004-05:00

Disappointment isn't a strong enough word to describe how I'm feeling today about Congressional Democrats. The better word--one I seldom use--is disgust.

Word leaking out from Capitol Hill overnight tells us that Democrats are about to cave on their rightfully strong insistence that the payroll tax cut extension be paid for by applying a surcharge on income over a million dollars.

Perhaps there is a reasonable explanation, or political strategy that the public is unaware of.. If so, let's hear it.

Otherwise, caving in--again--to Republican refusal to have the wealthiest of Americans pay their fair share is almost unforgivable.

The vast majority of Americans want to see a tax increase on income over a million dollars. That majority includes many of the millionaires and billionaires who would be affected.

Are the Democrats actually joining Republicans in thumbing their noses at the will of the people?

If so, then the Democrats, like the Republicans, could find themselves paying a steep price come next November.

A Very Good Sign For The Labor Market

2011-12-15T09:16:00.003-05:00

This morning's weekly jobs report provides further evidence that the economy really is on the way back.

Last week 366,000 people filed initial claims for unemployment benefits. That's the lowest total since May, 2008. That makes today's report the most encouraging sign of recovery in three and a half years, and today's good news follows on the heels of an unexpectedly good report the previous reporting period.

Economists will now be eagerly awaiting next Thursday's report, because if the downward trend in jobless claims continues, we might well see another significant drop in the overall national unemployment rate, which is now at 8.6 percent.

When It Comes To Politics--We Need To Lighten Up

2011-12-14T15:06:00.006-05:00

Generally speaking, politics is a serious matter. It's important that we pay attention to what the politicos are saying, so as to know what we are voting for.

But as it is with all of life, the serious side of politics should be interrupted by an occasional bit of comedy relief. Otherwise, the politicians will drive us off the deep end.

Jon Stewart is one of those who is especially adept at injecting some belly laughs into the political process. His late-night humor on The Daily Show spares no one, and eventually takes a swipe at everyone on the political trail.

Sometimes Stewart causes me to smile; sometimes to chuckle; and sometimes, like the other night, to break up with laughter.

The routine was built around Mitt Romney's major mistake during last Saturday's Republican Presidential debate. Romney wanted to bet Rick Perry $10,000. over whether or not something was stated in his book, and wagering an amount that large is an obvious no-no for a candidate attempting to portray himself as a man of the people.

Jon Stewart described that debate highlight as "a Mormon gambling with an Evangelical over who is the biggest liar".

The Year Of The Protester

2011-12-14T12:08:00.008-05:00

Time Magazine's 2011 Person of the Year is a choice that will be recognized and remembered by generations far into the future.

The announcement this morning that the annual honor goes this year to "The Protester" is appropriate, for this has, indeed, been, from beginning to end, the year of the protest.

The first-of-the-year, quickly successful revolution in Tunisia sparked similar uprisings elsewhere in the Arab world, and the situation in Egypt, and in Syria, remains volatile.

Some in the media, while reporting on the Arab spring, questioned whether such uprisings could ever happen in these United States. The answer came with the ongoing Occupy movement.

Time Magazine chose The Protester "for combining the oldest of techniques with the newest of technologies to shine a light on human dignity".

Yes, the selection of "The Protester" is a good one--one which will join those previous winners that will always be household names.

In that regard, "The Protester" joins the likes of Franklin Delano Roosevelt (a three-time Person of the Year), Harry Truman (a two-time winner), Charles Lindbergh, and Mark Zuckerberg.

But many a past Person of the Year has enjoyed Time's "15 minutes of fame", and then has become a fading memory--a name to be brought to mind only as the answer to a trivia question.

How many of us can recall the importance of Person of the Year winners Pierre Laval ((1931), or Harlow Curtice (1955), or Corazon Aquino (1986)?

They were, respectively, a treasonous French politician, a president of General Motors, and the first woman president of the Philippines.

The year ahead--2012--will be one with three past Person of the Year winners once again very much in the news, and once again under consideretion for the Time Magazine honor.

Demonstrations will continue here at home and abroad, and the spotlight will remain on "The Protester". President Barack Obama, Person of the Year in 2008, will remain a person of interest in the year ahead.

And the third previous Time Magazine Person of the Year--who could possibly be accorded the 2012 honor?

Newt Gingrich--Time Magazine's Person of the Year in 1995.

Checking Out Those Chain Emails

2011-12-13T11:45:00.003-05:00

Chain emails are a fact of life these days, and I get my share. Most of them contain information that I am urged to pass along. The request to keep it going usually comes with the assurance that the contents of the email are nothing short of "the gospel truth".

Most of the chain emails, however, have statements that are exaggerations, at best, or downright lies, at worst. A bad experience long ago taught me the importance of checking out facts, figures, and claims before giving any thought to sharing info with others.

A chain email that hit my inbox a few days ago is a good example of a request to pass along misinformation. Incidentally, it's the third time in two years I've received a chain email about Planned Parenthood.

This chain email stresses the need to make all Americans aware of the "fact" that Planned Parenthood is responsible for most of the abortions performed each year.

The truth is that only three percent of Planned Parenthood's services involve abortions, and only ten percent of Planned Parenthood's clients are assisted with abortions. No federal taxpayer money is used for abortions.

Actually, most of Planned Parenthood's work is in the areas of cancer screenings and the prevention of unwanted pregnancies.

There are a number of ways to check out chain emails. I usually go online to FactCheck.org, which is a non-partisan, nonprofit website. I type in my question, and in most cases, I get a prompt answer--which in all cases, is the correct answer.

The Debates Are Doing The Job

2011-12-12T10:04:00.008-05:00

At the outset of the debate season, some prominent political pundits were saying that there were far too many debates on the schedule--so many that voters would too-soon tire of politics, and would turn off the television, and tune out the candidates. Wow, were they ever wrong!

The ratings are in, and Saturday night's Republican Presidential debate was viewed by nearly eight million people--by far the largest televison audience of the dozen debates to date.

The increasing interest shows that the debates are doing the job intended. They are attracting to the political process millions of Americans who might otherwise not be reached.

Only one more major debate remains before the Iowa caucuses kick off primary season January 3. Fox News will do the honors Thursday evening at 9:00 PM.

Meanwhile, front-runner Newt Gingrich, and dark horse candidate Jon Huntsman will clash in New Hampshire this afternoon in a non-televised Lincoln-Douglas style debate.

The one-on-one format allows for a non-moderated back and forth on issues, with the big plus being the opportunity for the candidates to detail at length their policies and proposals.

These are two of the few intellectual heavyweights in the Republican field, and their debate is sure to produce some politely-stated, but definitely-different points of view we will be reading about tomorrow.

The Big Debate -- The Morning After

2011-12-11T08:27:00.005-05:00

Ratings will likely show that last night's Republican Presidential debate was the most-watched of the dozen to date; and those who tuned in were rewarded with a well-conducted, revealing and entertaining evening of political theatre.

When it was over, Newt Gingrich stood right where he was when it started--the obvious front-runner. Though they tried, his rivals didn't scratch the surface of this year's Teflon candidacy. And most important, the former Speaker never lost his cool.

On the other hand, former front-runner Mitt Romney appeared to feel the pressure of recent dips in the polls. The hurried words and nervous gestures that have marked recent appearances were with him again last night.

Watching Romney throughout the two hours, I began to imagine him speaking to world leaders in a pressurized situation--and it wasn't a pretty picture. Those early debates, when Romney remained above the fray and looked Presidential are fading memories.

The wild card of the night going in, Ron Paul did very well for himself. His increasing popularity with Iowa voters was evident from the continuous rounds of applause he enjoyed throughout. Ron Paul has become more than a dark horse--especially in Iowa, and his winning the January 3 caucuses is now well within the realm of possibility.

Bachman, Perry and Santorum did little to advance their candidacies, and their days onstage are numbered. Rick Perry did not, however, make the biggest mistake of the night, as he has done so often.

That dubious distinction goes to Romney, who wants to be known as a man of the people, but who, mid-debate, reminded viewers of his wealth by wanting to wager $10,000. with Rick Perry.

Making Money From Marijuana

2011-12-10T12:09:00.003-05:00

An article on Wall Street "sin stocks", in the USA Today this week, got me thinking again about the possible legalization of marijuana.

One of the arguments made for legalization is the revenue it could provide for the US Treasury.

According to the article, investors are pouring money into drinking, smoking and gambling stocks; and American consumers are spending tons of money on "sin", and by so doing, they are now giving government on all levels revenue in heretofore unimaginable amounts.

Is it time to admit that marijuana is just one more personal vice that will always be with us, and so should be welcomed with open arms as an additional major source of revenue?

Tonight's Debate Is Must-See Political Theatre

2011-12-10T10:15:00.003-05:00

For the general public, as well as political junkies, it doesn't get any better than this. Tonight's Republican Presidential debate is a must-see television event.

Ratings have been surprisingly high for the previous 11 major debates, and the ingredients are there to make this one the best of all.

It's only the second one in the series to be on a major broadcast network. The two-hour telecast will air from Iowa at 9:00 PM on ABC, with George Stephanopolous and Diane Sawyer moderating (or is it refereeing) the debate.

Tonight is the next-to-last time that the Republican hopefuls will share a stage before the Iowa caucuses on January 3. The usual cast of characters will be minus two, with Herman Cain having bowed out of the race, and Jon Huntsman spending the time campaigning in New Hampshire.

So what should we look for tonight? Who might pick up the most ground? Who is most apt to misspeak?

I think we can expect all six contenders to try to perform a balancing act. All of them know the increasing importance of looking Presidential. But all of them also know that GOP voters want their nominee to be a fighter, and so they will be looking for opportunities to do some damage to their rivals without appearing to be overly nasty.

Newt Gingrich is on a roll and his stellar performance thus far as a debater should continue tonight. The debate format won't allow the other contenders ample opportunity to use Newt's baggage against him.

Mitt Romney has displayed a nervousness in public appearances of late, and I expect him to lose more ground to Gingrich. Ron Paul is the wild card tonight, with this particular live audience possibly providing more vocal support for him than any other candidate.

For Perry, Bachman and Santorum--there's not much they can do to close the gap with the front runners. Any points that they score will be too little, too late.

As for who is most likely to stumble, that's easy. Look for the Texas Governor to shoot himself in the foot--again.

Still Thinking About Pearl Harbor

2011-12-09T13:45:00.002-05:00

It all seems so different now. I remember growing up at a time when December 7 meant a lot more than it did this week.

Way back when, Pearl Harbor was on the minds and the lips of just about everyone on that solemn day of remembrance. But this year, there seemed to be little discussion of Pearl Harbor beyond the token media coverage.

It's not that America will ever forget about what happened that day. No, that day will, indeed, live in infamy. It's just that the attention given to such a day changes with time. That's the way of things.

One of the changes is the near-necessary disbanding of the Pearl Harbor Survivors Association. The membership has been dwindling drastically as survivors of the Pearl Harbor attack pass on.

This year, little more than 100 survivors were able to make it to Hawaii for the 70th anniversary. Nationwide there are only an estimated seven to eight thousand Pearl Harbor survivors.

Back in the 70s, I had occasion to be in Hawaii several times, and during each visit there, I visited the USS Arizona and Punchbowl Cemetery.

In thinking about those still entombed in the Arizona, and those buried in Punchbowl crater, I always wondered, and still do wonder, what they might have done with their lives had they survived the morning of December 7, 1941.

Like many Americans my age, I still think a lot about Pearl Harbor.

A Trump Question For Political Pollsters

2011-12-09T12:50:00.004-05:00

Back in early spring, provocative sound bites and outrageous claims amazingly catapulted Donald Trump to front runner status among the Republican Presidential hopefuls. His contemplated candidacy turned out to be a farce, however, and "the Donald" saw his popularity take a plunge.

Pollsters still give us a reading from time to time on how Americans view Trump, and the latest surveys indicate that a Donald Trump endorsement of a Presidential candidate could actually be a liability.

Many of the big wigs in the GOP were openly critical of a proposed Presidential debate where Donald Trump was to be the moderator, and that uproar scared off all but two contenders from the field of seven.

Still, "the Donald" continues on undaunted--threatening now to become a third-party Presidential candidate if the GOP nominee isn't someone to his liking. That possibility has gotten him extensive exposure all over the television landscape.

I was in shock (but definitely not in awe) when I saw Trump this week on CNN for an hour with Piers Morgan, and what seemed like an hour with Wolf Blitzer.

I have a suggestion for a Trump question that pollsters might want to put before the public. "Do you think that there is too much unwarranted coverage of Donald Trump on TV?"

Then, if "the Donald" gets a thumbs down, as I believe he will, the TV networks should tell him to call for coverage only when he has done something worthy of coverage.

Pearl Harbor -- What A Difference A Day Makes

2011-12-07T09:18:00.007-05:00

When dawn broke over the Island of Oahu, in Hawaii, on a typically peaceful Sunday morning, December 7, 1941, America was a country at peace with the world, and at peace with itself.

The nation's focus was still on the lingering effects of The Great Depression, and although other peoples around the globe were at war, foreign conflicts seemed oh, so far away, and most Americans were in favor of, or at least content with, a policy of isolation.

By the end of that day of infamy, isolation had been removed forever from the realm of possibility. Overnight, the United States was at war, and Americans were soon doing battle on three continents and the seven seas.

The end of World War II coincided with the beginning of the nuclear age and the cold war; and with them came the inescapable and lasting truth that what happens and matters abroad, affects what happens, and matters at home.

That fact had remained evident for half a century,when devastating further proof positive came with the terrorist attacks on 9/11.

December 7, 1941, like September 11, 2001, will never be forgotten, and will be remembered always as a point in time when, in the course of a single, solitary day, America was suddenly, and forever, dramatically changed.

It's Strange Company I'm Keeping

2011-12-06T15:31:00.004-05:00

Rare, indeed, is the occasion when I agree with something Karl Rove says. But today, I find myself agreeing with the Republican strategist.

And although I have great respect for him, I don't always agree with Conservative columnist George Will. But I do today.

Then there's Ari Fleischer, one-time press secretary to George W. Bush, and now a political pundit. He's been irritating me for years--but not today.

These gentlemen are just three 0f the GOP voices to rightfully decry the acceptance by Republican Presidential candidates of an invitation to participate in a debate that will be moderated by Donald Trump.

I am somewhat relieved that these gentlemen, and other prominent Republicans, are speaking out. It reassures me that the entire Republican party has not gone bonkers.

It boggles the mind to think that Trump could have the unmitigated gall to insert himself back into Presidential politics after playing games with the American electorate last spring.

And it is equally stunning to learn that Presidential candidates would participate in a debate where the moderator was to endorse one of the hopefuls after the debate.

Add in the fact that a poll shows that 37 percent of New Hampshire Republicans and Independents would not vote for a candidate endorsed by Donald Trump.

Try to find some logic in all this, and when you can't, stop and think about an awful truth.

One of these Republican candidates could wind up being President.

Finally -- An "Occupy Congress"

2011-12-06T14:38:00.005-05:00

The Occupy Wall Street movement has made an entire nation more aware of, and more angry over, the economic inequality that exists in America today.

In targeting corporate greed, however, the protesters have not--until now--focused on those most responsible. That would be members of Congress.

Today, in Washington, protesters from the Occupy movement and other groups will take their complaints to Capitol Hill. There will be some meetings with individual members of Congress, and there will be some relatively minor demonstrations.

What happens today is not likely to have much impact on lawmakers, but it's a start. Just the fact that there is something going on called Occupy Congress is encouraging.

Occupy Wall Stret also started out small.

"Beneath the office of the Presidency"

2011-12-04T08:11:00.004-05:00

While acknowledging that Donald Trump's role of moderator may well increase ratings for the December 27 Republican Presidential debate, Congressman Ron Paul correctly views the showboating Trump's participation as adding to the circus-like atmosphere that has enveloped the race for the GOP nomination.

I don't agree with a lot of what Ron Paul is selling these days, but I do have increased respect for him as a Presidential candidate--because he has had the courage to give up publicity in favor of principle.

Ron Paul has said no to the debate because he thinks it will be "beneath the office of the Presidency". He believes that the inherent "dignity" of the Presidency should extend to those seeking the office.

Jon Huntsman will also be a no-show December 27. He echoes the sentiment of Ron Paul--saying that giving the important role of moderator to a reality show personality detracts from the event.

Like Ron Paul, Jon Huntsman can use all the exposure he can get as we approach the January caucuses and debates. But like Ron Paul, Jon Huntsman's decision may resonate well with serious voters

A Major Mistake For The Republican Field

2011-12-03T11:23:00.005-05:00

Last spring, Donald Trump made the media look silly and, at the same time, insulted the intelligence of the American electorate, when he teased about possible entry into the race for the GOP nomination for President.

In the process, Trump used a "birther" attack on President Obama to get attention. He claimed that he had investigators in Hawaii who were uncovering new facts, but nothing ever came of it, and no further explanation was ever given.

At the same time, Trump boasted about his ability to finance a Presidential run, and he claimed that his wealth and net worth were far greater than most people thought. He promised to release information to that effect--but he never did.

Now, Donald Trump must be chuckling to himself, as he intrudes once more into Presidential politics. It appears that his offer to set up and moderate a Republican Presidential debate will be accepted by most of the GOP field. More free publicity for "the Donald".

Already, the Republican Presidential contenders appear to be, as a group, perhaps the least competent field ever. That evaluation is espoused by nearly all Democrats, as well as many Republicans and Independents.

And now, allowing the self-promoting Donald Trump to participate in the primary process may cost the Republican hopefuls heavily with serious voters.

I'm a political junkie, but this is one debate I won't be watching.

A Proud Moment For Americans

2011-12-02T10:27:00.002-05:00

Just when you begin to wonder how much the bitter political partisanship, so prevalent in America today. is affecting how people around the world view us, along come our last three Presidents to project a good image of these United States.

Yesterday, President Obama, in Washington, and George W. Bush and Bill Clinton, via satellite, joined together, on the occasion of World AIDS Day to reassure countries around the globe that the United States remains the greatest nation on earth.

All three Presidents stressed the importance of America's leadership role in the fight against AIDS worldwide. It was a reminder to people everywhere, that when it comes to a worldwide problem--be it the war on terror, or the fight to eradicate AIDS, we are neither Democrats or Republicans--we are simply Americans.

The Jobs Report -- And "The Thrill Of Hope"

2011-12-02T09:51:00.005-05:00

Another day, and another song crossing my mind.

The monthly jobs report is out, and the news is good. It brings "the thrill of hope", and "a weary world rejoices".

Some 120,000 jobs were created. That's not as many as we need, but it's a sign of progress in our economic recovery.

The unemployment rate dipped to 8.6 percent. That improvement is tempered by the knowledge that some of the drop is due to people giving up the search for work. But 8.6 is the first significant drop in a long, long time; and a heckuva lot better than last month's 9.0.

There remains some rocky road ahead; lingering problems still abound. But, hopefully, today's jobs report will be cause for hiring. Hopefully, it will loosen the public's purse strings, and bring on a surge in consumer spending this holiday season.

John Hinckley -- To Be Deceptive Is To Be Dangerous

2011-12-01T11:17:00.013-05:00

How can it possibly be that there is an ongoing argument as to whether John Hinckly, Jr. should be free to roam the streets?

How can it require a lengthy hearing of a week or more to determine what is already abundantly clear--that he remains a threat to society?

After the wounding of then President Ronald Reagan, in an assassination attempt in 1981, Hinckley's trial a year later resulted in a verdict of not guilty by reason of insanity.

Press Secretary Jim Brady was permanently disabled during the attack, and a Secret Service agent and Washington, D.C. police officer were also wounded.

An attorney who is representing John Hinckley bases his case for Hinckley's release-- from any confinement and from all supervision--on his belief that Hinckley is "flawed, but a decent man".

Flawed? Hinckley has mocked his psychiatric treatment by writing that, "Doctors will never know the true John Hinckley".

And the Secret Service found through surveillance that Hinkley has lied about his activities when given trial periods of freedom. Hinckley was described as "deceptive".

Sane or insane, to be deceptive is to be dangerous, and in no way deserving of total freedom.

"Send In The Clowns"

2011-12-01T08:00:00.000-05:00

More and more, the title of a favorite song comes to mind when I think about the Republican Presidential race. "Send In The Clowns" seems oh, so appropriate.

Every day brings us a new outlandish remark or proposal. Today it's Michelle Bachman's turn.

While trailing badly in the polls, the Congresswoman remains confidant, and has even gone so far as to consider--and announce--her short list for a running mate.

Fellow contender, and former U.S. Senator Rick Santorum is a compatible and competent choice. Senators Marco Rubio and Jim Demint are also logical picks.

But "the Donald"--Donald Trump? The fourth and final name on the short list just doesn't figure--or does it?

No way Donald Trump takes second billing on anything. And he isn't the most popular politico in America right now.

Could it be, though, that Michelle is thinking about the possibility of a badly needed campaign donation when she flatters the narcissistic Trump?

"Send In The Clowns"? Like the song says, "Don't bother, they're here".

"Baby, It's Cold Outside!"

2011-11-30T09:59:00.004-05:00

For decades now, an old familiar seasonal song has reminded us when Jack Frost is back in town, and when it's time to put on a warm coat or jacket--when it's time to bundle up before going outdoors.

"Baby, It's Cold Outside" is a fun song with a serious message. Having proper attire is a must when going out to brave the elements.

But what if you don't own a warm jacket or coat, and what if it's not a case of going outside, but rather a case of living outside--24/7?

As difficult as it is for some people to believe, there are countless men, women, and yes, children--all across America--who have neither adequate shelter nor warm clothing.

There are friends of this column--Virginia Sellner in Wyoming, and Lori Kari in Alaska, and Gloria Edwards in Montana--who, in their work as homeless advocates, see families struggle through nearly impossible winter conditions.

I have a personal, troubling, indelible memory of a Native-American family huddled in a makeshift lean-to just off I-25 in Montana.

And being homeless in Florida is no bed of roses. Nighttime temperatures where I live have been in the 30s--prompting the local coalition for the homeless to send out an urgent appeal for jackets and coats.

That notice is the reason for this column. For wherever you live, there are likely people in need of a jacket or coat, and there is likely an organization that is collecting and passing out winter apparel.

Perhaps there is a jacket or coat that you are no longer using that someone else could wear. Any jacket or coat would be appreciated, but large and extra large sizes are especially welcome.

A Competency Test For Presidential Candidates

2011-11-30T08:27:00.003-05:00

Rick Perry has done it again. He has uttered remarks that bring into question, once more, the Texas Governor's competency to be a Presidential candidate.

Yesterday, Perry displayed an ignorance that would be funny except for the fact that only weeks ago he was the front runner for the Republican nomination for President.

How can a Presidential candidate not know that the legal age for voting is 18? Perry thought it was 21.

And how can a Presidential candidate get the date of the next election wrong? Perry did. He missed it by a week.

These errors are only the most recent in what has become a long list of Rick Perry mistakes and blunders. And then there was that 53-second brain freeze when he said he would eliminate three federal departments, but could only remember two.

But the scariest thing about this upcoming Presidential election year is that there are other candidates with the same propensity to misspeak.

Is it time to consider some sort of competency test to screen those who would be Presidential candidates?

An arrangement such as now in play to afford a candidate early Secret Service protection might work. Leaders of both parties could form a nonpartisan committee to do the screening, or perhaps an organization such as the League of Women Voters could apply the test.

Whatever the method, it may be time to consider a vetting of Presidential candidates.

A Stunning Revelation -- Life Expectancy Is Decreasing

2011-11-29T10:23:00.003-05:00

When First Lady Michelle Obama joined the fight against childhood obesity by launching her "Let's Move!" initiative, she was accused by some of interfering with parental decision-making, and she was referred to in some quarters as "the food police".

But undaunted by the criticism, she went on to enlist the support of Major League Baseball, the National Football League, Wal-Mart, and numerous other businesses and organizations.

And now comes proof positive of the need for, and the importance of, the anti-obesity campaign that Michelle Obama is waging. The evidence is in a report due out Thursday from The New England Journal of Medicine.

"The Journal" advises that for the first time in 200 years, for the first time in nearly the entire history of The United States, the current generation of children will likely have a shorter life expectancy than their parents.

The reason in a word is obesity, which is a cause of other health problems such as diabetes and heart disease. Today's children may have shorter life spans by as much as five years. And the current average life expectancy of 77 plus years would be longer were it not for obesity.

According to Surgeon General Regina Benjamin, there is "no greater challenge" to America's health than obesity.

If there is any good news in the report, it is the wake up call that this stunning revelation might turn out to be. And obesity is one health problem that can be overcome.

Give Me A Home Where The Buffalo Roam

2011-11-28T11:01:00.008-05:00

When I settled in north Florida a little less than two years ago, I expected that there would be differences from other places I've lived.

I knew that the climate would be different, and it is, and I love it. I thought that the people might be a little different, and they are, and I love them, too. I hoped that the cost of living would prove affordable, and it has.

What I didn't anticipate was that I would be moving into an area with such a vast array of wildlife. And the incredible part is that while I live only a short walk from stores, markets, and the necessities of everyday life, I am also just a few miles from the habitat of alligators, black bears, deer, hawks, and yes, even buffalo.

These thoughts concerning my present whereabouts were brought on by an article in the Sunday paper--about the herd of bison which thrive in the Paynes Prairie Preserve south of Gainesville.

I agree with the president of the Florida Wildlife Federation, who is quoted in the article as saying that, "the bison are one of the cool things about living in Florida".

But some of the more cantankerous bison are crashing fences, crossing highways, scaring tourists, and wandering through suburbs to an extent that has led state officials to call for a thinning of the herd.

About 35 males identified as having an attitude would be removed from the herd, but there's a problem with this plan in that no one knows whee to send the trouble makers.

On the other side of the issue are the many locals who want to keep the herd intact. A petition drive is underway to maintain the status quo.

As for me, I come down on the side of the 35 male bison in question. After all, boys will be boys.

Let them, like me--enjoy this home where the buffalo roam.

A Wacky Wonderful Weekend For Shopaholics

2011-11-26T08:58:00.010-05:00

This long holiday weekend, with its diverse purchasing opportunities, must seem like a little slice of Heaven to shopping devotees--especially those who remember how it used to be.

That was before the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade became a televised tradition, and before there were three football games on TV to fill out the rest of turkey day.

Back then there were no stores open on Thanksgiving, but lots of would-be shoppers would go from the dinner table right down to Main or Market Street, where they went "window shopping"--gazing longingly at the window displays in the various department and clothing stores, while getting into the spirit for when the stores opened the following morning.

It should be noted that this was also before shopping malls stole downtown business and took it to the suburbs.

During that time--long ago, but seemingly only yesterday--the Friday after Thanksgiving Day was the one big day of the holiday shopping season. It wasn't called black Friday back then.

That name came later, as the boom times of the late 40s, and the happy days of the fabulous 50s, enabled store owners to turn any red ink into a black bottom line in the space of that one special day after Thanksgiving.

Things are different now, and I guess for the better. The shopaholics among us are certainly happier now, and with good reason. They can shop just about anytime they wish throughout the Thanksgiving holiday weekend.

Wal-Mart and K-Mart are now open every Thanksgiving Day; and Macy's, Target, and Best Buy have begun to start their black Friday promotions early, real early--like Thanksgiving night.

Saturday has been designated as small business day--a time to think about giving neighborhood stores, and mom and pop businesses a share of the wealth. And once again there will be a cyber Monday--when online businesses offer specials and discounts.

This year, like none before, it's possible to shop 'til you drop.

Thank God It's (Black) Friday

2011-11-25T11:11:00.006-05:00

Early reports indicate that a change in black Friday marketing strategy is paying off for retail stores across the country. Pushing up store openings to late Thanksgiving night has proven to be popular with customers.

A surge in black Friday sales could spark a successful holiday season for retailers, and boost consumer spending--the engine that drives the nation's economy.

Most shoppers appear to be thrilled with the earlier store openings, and retailers are obviously thrilled with the results; but there is one segment of the population that is not at all happy with the change.

That would be a relatively small, but demonstrative number of store employees, who see the earlier openings as unnecessarily taking away from holiday time with their families. One Target employee has gathered nearly 200,000 signatures for an online petition protesting the earlier black Friday opening.

These disgruntled employees should realize that it is the shopping practices and demands of customers that dictates when stores must be open.

If customers want stores open late Thanksgiving night, or all night, or very early black Friday morning--then that is when they must be open, and that is when employees must work. It is the customers who provide employer profit, and it is the customers who pay employee wages.

Wal-Mart and K-Mart have long been open all day on Thanksgiving, without widespread employee discontent. But now, retail chains like Target, Best Buy, and Macy's are getting push back for opening late night on Thanksgiving Day.

That Target employee, and others who are crying, "Foul", should be shouting, instead, "Thank God it's black Friday".

Instead of moaning and groaning about the new hours, these employees should be ever so thankful that they have jobs. I'm sure that most of the nearly fifteen million people who are currently unemployed across America would gladly take their places.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T09:57:00.003-05:00

Today is that wonderful "time out" opportunity provided by law to step back from everyday activities and focus on our blessings.

No matter our trials and tribulations, there is always somethig to be thankful for.

Among the many things I have to be thankful for is this column. I thank God for that, and I thank you for your readership--and friendship.

Have a wonderful and memorable Thanksgiving Day, 2011.

your cuz'n Bill

A Possible Game Changer In Iowa

2011-11-23T11:00:00.005-05:00

Thousands of voters across the country will receive phone calls today from pollsters, checking reaction to last night's Republican Presidential debate.

What the pollsters learn, and pass on to the electorate, will show the rise or fall of the various candidates. Reports headlined, "Breaking news--the latest poll", will influence voters, and affect fundraising.

But what the thousands of voters who are polled think, isn't nearly as important to the candidates as what only a dozen or so social conservatives in Iowa think.

The Iowa caucuses January 3 will be the first time in this election cycle that votes really count. This is when and where the candidates begin to get commitments from delegates. What happens in Iowa will resonate throughout the country.

Winning Iowa, or even finishing second or third, is critical, because Iowa is the first real test. A poor finish in Iowa makes the second test, in New Hampshire, practically a must-win situation.

The latest Iowa polls show four of the eight Republican Presidential candidates clustered closely together at the top of the polls. One of those is Mitt Romney, a front runner nationally; but until recently, not a factor in Iowa.

Romney is unpopular with the Tea Party and strict conservatives--so much so that there is strong "anybody but Romney" sentiment.

But now, Romney is making a change in campaign strategy. He has decided to no longer ignore Iowa. He has decided to campaign strongly there--pursuing the possibility that he can take Iowa, and then New Hampshire, and by so doing, gather the momentum, and accrue enough delegates, to allow him to secure the nomination sooner rather than later.

Anti-Romney feeling in Iowa is producing what could become a game-changer in the Iowa caucuses. Political correspondent Shannon Travis of CNN is reporting that 20-25 leaders of socially conservative organizations met in Des Moines on Monday, and will meet again next Monday, to see if they can come up with a consensus candidate to rally around and prevent Romney from winning come January 3.

If this group succeeds in uniting behind one socially conservative candidate that they can recommend to Iowa voters, it will be great news for one contender--and very bad news for several others. We may be looking at a real game-changer in the race for the Republican nomination for President.

Stay tuned!.

The Occupy Movement Has Only Just Begun

2011-11-22T09:18:00.012-05:00

When local authorities across the country began to close down Occupy encampments last week, it was said by some in government, and a few in the media, that it was all over; that the movement would lose its steam and would soon be but a memory.

Count me as among those who think otherwise. Add me to the growing list of those who now believe that the Occupy movement has only just begun.

And that conclusion isn't drawn solely from the fact that most Americans are to varying degrees supportive of the cause. Sympathizing with a movement isn't, in itself, enough to keep going indefinitely, those who participate in the physically demanding, and mentally challenging demonstrations and marches.

It takes an occasional spark, something truly inspirational, to provide the energy and determination that keeps any movement going--and growing. Over the weekend, two events--some three thousand miles apart--provided a spark, and inspiration--just when the Occupy movement sorely needed it.

On the University of California campus at Davis. students who were peacefully demonstrating against the doubling of tuition, were pepper-sprayed at close range by campus police. A video, showing the students sitting quietly on the ground, before being needlessly sprayed in the face, has gone viral.

Across the country, an Occupy protest at the Brooklyn bridge resulted in a mass arrest that included City Council members, reporters from the Associated Press and the New York Daily News, and the President of the Service Employees International Union.

National outrage over the incident in California is the spark; and the actions of prominent Occupy supporters in New York is the inspiration that assures that the Occupy movement won't die out any time soon.

The original protesters of Occupy Wall Street, who started it all by demonstrating against corporate greed and economic inequality, are being joined by students, and labor leaders, and veterans. The Occupy movement is beginning to truly represent all of the 99 percent.

About Tuesday's National Security Debate

2011-11-21T12:11:00.011-05:00

Tuesday evening, at historic Constitution Hall in our nation's Capitol, seven men and one woman will take part in a debate about national security.

One of those eight people on stage will soon be the Republican nominee who will run against incumbent Barack Obama in 2012. And, at this point in time, there is a 50-50 chance that one of those eight people will actually become our next President.

It is said that voters always consider, first and foremost, pocketbook issues when voting for a Presidential candidate. And in these especially difficult economic times, the now-famous words of James Carville during another election year--1992--still ring true today: "It's the economy stupid."

But as important as the economy is to voters, it is a sobering truth that a candidate's skill in economic matters is not as important as the candidate's ability to handle foreign affairs and keep America safe.

Tuesday's debate is an excellent opportunity to gain insight into the thinking of the Republican candidates on defense and foreign policy. The debate will be aired by CNN, which is considered by most Republicans and Democrats alike to be unbiased and non-partisan in its coverage.

The moderator is Wolf Blitzer, who is generally recognized as a journalist who asks the questions that are on the minds of viewers, and who seeks answers that will give voters the information they need to know.

It will be interesting to hear what, if anything, the various candidates would have done, or would do, differently than President Obama. Their remarks and answers may also indicate whether or not they are prepared and competent to handle the awesome responsibilities of Commander in Chief.

There was a time, not all that long ago, when doubts were raised about how President Obama would perform on the world stage, and if he could be a capable Commander in Chief, and if he had the right stuff to keep America safe.

During primary season, 2008, TV ads were run suggesting that a President Obama answering a 3:00 AM emergency call would be a scary proposition, and shortly after his election, former Vice President Dick Cheney said that Barack Obama becoming President made America less safe.

Now, after three years in office, Barack Obama has an impressive list of achievements as Commander in Chief.

He ended one war--in Iraq--as promised. In Libya he was instrumental in organizing a coalition that brought an end to Gahdafi and to the conflict--without any loss of American life. On his watch, two of the world's most infamous terrorists--Osama bin Laden, and Anwar al Awlaki--were found and killed.

And then there was that first big test--the one that showed Dick Cheney's concern was unwarranted. The President authorized a daring raid that saved a ship's captain from pirates in the Mediterranean. Since that rescue, pirates have become less of a threat.

So during and after the Tuesday debate, there is a comparison to be made.. There is the record of the current President, and there are the images and thoughts of how the Republican candidates would be as Commander in Chief.

March 6 Is Looking Like D-Day For Republicans

2011-11-21T04:00:00.005-05:00

Gazing into my make-believe crystal ball, I see March 6 as decision day for Republicans.

That's Super Tuesday, and though there aren't as many primaries that day as in the past, March 6 looks to be the day of reckoning for any remaining Presidential candidates.

At the end of the day, there will be but one man still standing--Mitt Romney. The delegates that he picks up on Super Tuesday will put him over the top, and assure him the nomination.

The first casualty, the first candidate to bow out, is likely to be Rick Santorum. He has seemingly been living in Iowa, but his frequent trips there haven't gotten him beyond single digit standing in the polls. He has little money, and nothing to gain by sticking around.

The former Senator from Pennsylvania needs a miracle in the Iowa caucuses January 3, and a respectable showing in the New Hampshire primary January 10, to give him reason to continue on, He will bomb, however, in both states, and bow out January 11.

Michelle Bachman will be the second contender to call it quits. The bloom is off the rose after winning the Iowa straw poll last summer, and a likely poor finish
in both the Iowa caucuses and New Hampshire primary, along with weak polling numbers in other states, will force her out by mid January.

I see Herman Cain saying goodbye about the same time. I expect a drastic drop in his polling numbers in the next few weeks, and I think he will fare a lot worse in Iowa and New Hampshire than most pundits are predicting.

Also, the stress and strain of campaigning is beginning to take a toll on him, and that may influence his decision as to when to get out.

Jon Huntsman is putting all of his time and effort into New Hampshire, and I expect him to gain support there at the expense of Mitt Romney.

He will do surprisingly well in New Hampshire--perhaps even a second place finish--and then hang around long enough to try his luck in Florida. But unless he pulls off a stunning upset in Florida, which is unlikely, a lack of money will force him out of the race.

For Newt Gingrich, this is as good as it gets. I think that all that baggage will soon put an end to his front-runner status.

I expect him to stick it out, however, through the Florida primary. Even when there is no hope of winning the nomination, there is something to be gained from participating in the debates--exposure. Staying in the race helps Gingrich sell books and get speaking fees.

Ron Paul will stay in the race as long as possible for a different reason. Win or lose, he wants to take advantage of every opportunity to put forth his view of America today, and his vision for America tomorrow.

Rick Perry is the hardest candidate to figure out. He has enough money to contend for the nomination through most of primary season. But his numbers are down, and he is not apt to see again the front runner status he once enjoyed.

And like Cain, I think that Perry has already had enough, and will welcome his exit whenever that might be. I think that day will come shortly after the Florida primary.

So the last man standing will be Mitt Romney--who on the night of March 6 should have enough delegates to be assured the nomination.

Predicting A Presidential Run For Hillary Clinton

2011-11-19T09:57:00.002-05:00

During President Obama's trip down under this week, most of us got our first long look at recently elected (2010) Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard.

Television coverage of the President's visit, with this lady leader of a strong American ally, got me to wondering again if there is a woman President in America's not-too-distant future.

Julia Gillard, and Angela Merkel, Chancellor of Germany, are proof positive that women can be strong, successful world leaders. They might further encourage American voters to give a lady a try if the right one comes along.

And actually, the right one for many voters may already be on the scene. That would be Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton, whom I believe--contrary to her denials--will be a candidate for President in 2016.

It should be noted that we have a growing number of competent women--Republicans as well as Democrats--in government today, and some of them will surely emerge as viable Presidential candidates in years to come.

But for now, the one most likely; the one with the most experience; the one with expertise in domestic matters and foreign affairs; the one with the best resume and the most impressive list of accomplishments, is Hillary Clinton.

Whenever her name has been part of a conversation about the Presidency, the question of age has come up. Hillary Clinton would have just turned 69 on election day, 2016.

By way of comparison, Ronald Reagan was just days short of his 70th birthday when he was inaugurated in 1981. And Golda Meir was 71 when she was elected Prime Minister of Israel some forty years ago.

There is another interesting similarity between Golda Meir and Hillary Clinton. The former was Israel's Foreign Minister before becoming Prime Minister. Clinton would be going from Secretary of State to the Presidency, if elected.

It is nearly a year until election day, 2012, and the campaign for 2016 is still a long way off--or is it? Republicans Chris Christie of New Jersey, and Jeb Bush, of Florida are gathering support, and raising money, for Presidential runs. That's two candidates already.

Count Hillary Clinton as a third.

Another Abuse Of A "Public's Right To Know" Law

2011-11-18T11:14:00.010-05:00

One of the most outrageous revelations to come out of the Penn State sexual abuse scandal, is the fact that Penn State was able to get an exemption from the Right To Know law that covers all levels of government--and other universities in Pennsylvania.

This little known injustice was uncovered by members of the media as they sought to check records pertaining to the allegations against former Penn State assistant football coach Jerry Sandusky.

There are no good reasons for the exemption, and those that were provided are indeed flimsy. The exemption was said to be necessary in order to protect the school's "competitiveness", and to avoid the "cost of compliance".

This inexplicable abuse of Pennsylvania's version of sunshine law raises a question as to the possibility that the request, and approval of the exemption was due to knowledge of, and concern over Jerry Sandusky transgressions.

Perhaps any future requests for exemption from Right To Know laws, in Pennsylvania, or elsewhere. will be considered with the Penn State exemption in mind.

The Importance Of A "Gotcha" Question

2011-11-18T03:00:00.008-05:00

Politicians complain vociferously about what they call "gotcha" questions--the ones designed to catch a lawmaker or candidate flip-flopping, or contradictring somethng previously said, or saying anything else that becomes controversial, and perhaps embarrassing.

Gotcha questions are an important part of any good reporter's modus operandi, because they often provide the public with important information that otherwise might not be revealed.

Last week, a gotcha question by the Milwaukee Journal editorial board dealt a serious blow to Herman Cain's Presidential aspirations. Although that editorial board would likely claim that it didn't intend the question to be one of the gotcha variety, the way the question was posed suggests otherwise.

It is the now famous question about Libya--the one that was worded so as to put Herman Cain's knowledge, or lack of knowledge about foreign affairs, on display for all to see. It was the question that produced 104 seconds of political theatre, the likes of which is seldom seen and never forgotten.

Had the Milwaukee Journal editorial board simply asked what he thought about Libya, Herman Cain could have gotten away, as he usually does, with a vague answer, or a "Haven't decided yet".

But by specifically being asked if he agreed with President Obama, Cain needed to know at least some generalities about Libya, and he needed to know Obama's position and actions--and he clearly didn't.

Without this gotcha question, which was caught on camera, voters might never have known how ignorant on foreign affairs Herman Cain actually is.

And how important is it that Herman Cain know something about foreign affairs?

Speaking on "The View", Joy Behar offered a thought-provoking take on the subject. She said that she doesn't want a person who knows nothing about Libya, and isn't aware that China is a nuclear power, to be the man who has his hand on the (nuclear weapon) button.

You Just Gotta Love Those Patriotic Millionaires

2011-11-17T11:52:00.004-05:00

Yesterday, a concerned contingent of millionaires descended on Congress to plead their case. They were there to urge Congress to raise their taxes.

Their request was a surprise, and an embarrassment to Republican Congressional leaders, who have been opposing any tax increase on America's wealthiest citizens.

Spcifically, a proposal by the President to raise taxes on income over a million dollars, has been opposed by Republican leaders on the grounds that it would cost jobs--by discouraging wealthy job creators from hiring.

Two dozen strong, the self-named Patriotic Millionaires debunked Republican logic, and urged, as necessary, immediate action.

Hopefully, hearing from those affected by a tax increase will drive the Republicans back to the bargaining table with less obstinancy, and more willingness to compromise on ways to reduce the deficit.

When A Soup Kitchen Turns You Away

2011-11-16T03:57:00.006-05:00

When you are homeless, it's amazing what can ruin your day.

Something as simple as the urge to pee can ruin your day. If you are refused use of store or restaurant restroom facilities--because you tote a tell-tale backpack, or just because you have that homeless look--it's either pee in your pants, or find a tree or bush.

Selecting the latter choice can really ruin your day--if you are seen, and reported, and end up behind bars.

Being turned away at a soup kitchen can also ruin your day. That's what can happen at St. Francis soup kitchen in Gainesville, Florida if you don't have a state-issued I.D. card.

Before you can partake at St. Francis, you must undergo a check for outstanding warrants--which is a reasonable rule--and you must produce state I.D.--which is a terrible rule.

That's because trying to obtain a state I.D. card can further ruin your day. To qualify, you must produce two pieces of evidence--utility bills, etc.--that show your address.

The fact that you are homeless and have no address can definitely ruin your day. No address. No I.D. card. No meal at St. Francis.

And when a soup kitchen turns you away, for now and forever--that's a very bad day.

Thinking Beyond Zuccotti Park

2011-11-15T10:52:00.005-05:00

Only a tiny fraction of this nation's "99 percenters" have been physically present at any Occupy Wall Street demonstrations--in New York, or elsewhere around the country. And the vast majority of "99 percenters" know very little about the Occupy encampment--in New York, or other cities.

If they did, they would rightfully continue to support the Occupy protests; but they would support, also, the action taken early today to clear out, and clean up the Occupy Wall Street encampment in Zuccotti Park in lower Manhattan.

The protesters have been told that when the cleaning up is completed, they can once again occupy Zuccotti Park, but only until 10:00 PM--not overnight. They have been further advised that tents and tarps will no longer be permitted in the park.

New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg is taking a lot of heat over his decision; and at the time of this writing, a legal battle has ensued over whether Zuccotti Park can be closed at night, and whether the city can prohibit the use of tents and tarps.

But whatever comes down from the courts, those who disagree with the action taken in Zuccotti Park need to think--as the Mayor has done--beyond Zuccotti Park: because what happens in Zuccotti Park can have serious consequences for people far removed from lower Manhattan.

When authorities in New York and other cities speak of closing down encampments for reasons of health and safety, it seems to many like an excuse for cracking down on the Occupy movement.

But as one who has seen such encampments from the inside, I take the words health and safety as valid reasons, not convenient excuses. Health and safety are always very real concerns in encampments such as the one in Zuccotti Park.

I have seen what can happen when one person develops a staph infection. This highly contagious form of infection rapidly spreads beyond the borders of any crowded confined space such as an encampment. And most staph infections are antibiotic resistant.

The Occupy movement has made all of America more aware of the disparity in wealth in this country. The Occupy movement enjoys the support of the 99 percent plus the support of many in the 1 percent.

Encampments have served their purpose, but it's time now for a change in tactics.

There's Something Seriously Wrong With The Debates

2011-11-15T03:09:00.009-05:00

More than five million Americans tuned in to Saturday night's Republican Presidential debate.

Political pundits and media executives have expressed surprise at the increase in debate popularity--especially since there have been so many--10 to date.

Debates are increasingly important to the candidates, as they see that they can reach millions of voters through the free publicity that the debates provide, and lessen the need for paid advertising. Regular appearances in debates can also reduce some of the time, travel, and stress that come with retail politicking.

The debates can be an excellent way for the voters to get to know more about the candidates and what they stand for; but something that occurred before and after this latest debate has me concerned.

John Dickerson, political director for CBS News, which aired the debate, accidentally sent a copy of an email to the Michelle Bachman campaign. The email instructed CBS staff to "get someone else" for a post-debate online program, because Bachman was down in the polls and was "not going to get many questions" during the debate.

Dickerson was right, because according to the Project For Excellence In Journalism, Bachman got less time to talk during the debate than did perceived front runners Mitt Romney and Newt Gingrich; and "good copy" candidates Herman Cain and Rick Perry.

Ron Paul, Rick Santorum, and Jon Huntsman also suffered from a lack of attention from the moderators. On one occasion, after a lengthy period of being ignored, Jon Huntsman complained that he felt like he was in Siberia.

When called out about his email, and the unequal--and unfair--distribution of questions, Dickerson was unapologetic, and said he was simply being realistic and telling the truth about Bachman's dwindling chances for the nomination.

Dickerson's thinking is downright scary and dead wrong. All candidates who qualify for the debate; all candidates who are invited to participate; all candidates who are given space at a podium on the stage---all candidates, without exception, deserve equal access to the voters, which means equal time, and the same number of questions.

It's a dangerous practice to have any one person dictate whose views get the most time and attention in a nationally televised debate. One person should not have the power to decide who or what the public will hear.

It would seem that Dickerson has forgotten, if he ever knew, that John McCain, in the midst of his 2008 Presidential campaign, lost most of his staff, was nearly broke, was down in the polls, and was written off by the "experts".

John McCain, of course, went on to win the nomination.

When Separating Church And State Is Not Necessary

2011-11-14T04:20:00.000-05:00

America has seen some bitter battles through the years over the separation of church and state. One of the most common differences of opinion has been over religious displays, such as nativity scenes, in government buildings or on government land.

Our founding fathers were correct in starting us down a path that kept church and state apart, and generally speaking, that remains a good idea. But there are exceptions to every rule-even where the church and state issue is concerned.

The Washington National Cathedral incurred serious damage from the recent 5.8 Virginia earthquake. Repairs will cost millions and take years.

When the District of Columbia Mayor asked for help from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, groups such as Americans United for Separation of Church and State objected, because they believe that federal help would run counter to the separation of church and state.

On first thought, those who object would seem to be right. But on further thought, they are definitely wrong. Helping to restore a national treasure does not necessarily run counter to the idea of separation of church and state.

In 1792, the original plan for the nation's capitol set aside a plot of land for "a great church for national purposes". This wording tells me that our founding fathers did not envision their proposed structure as something that would hinder the separation of church and state.

Through the years, the Washington National Cathedral has been the venue for countless events that were non-denominational. And some 400,000 visitors tour the Cathedral annually.

They come to see a magnificent building that is the sixth largest cathedral in the world, and the second largest in the United States. They come to see a beautiful structure that is third on the list of America's favorite architecture; and is included in the National Register of Historic Places.

The Washington National Cathedral is a "must see" stop for almost all tourists; and I doubt if many of them even know the church's denomination--Episcopalian--or its actual name--The Cathedral Church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul. I must admit that I didn't know that until doing research for this article.

Elsewhere in the Capitol, the Washington Monument, which also sustained damages from that recent earthquake, is already undergoing repairs funded by FEMA. The Washington Monument is, of course, a national treasure--but so, also, is the Washington National Cathedral.