Thunder Runner's World

Amen!

2005-11-14T12:29:00.000-08:00

Froggy get it right! Read...enjoy...fume...

Don't Spend It All In One Place!

2005-10-27T13:08:00.000-07:00

Had to do it...guess curiosity got the better of me. It was about $16,370 more than I expected. Ha!

My blog is worth $16,371.66.How much is your blog worth?
If you have an Technorati account, and you want to help keep this page going, please go here http://technorati.com/developers/apikey.html and get your api key, and send it to me. I promise not to use it for anything but this page.
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CIndy Sheehan Arrested

2005-09-26T16:46:00.000-07:00

The media clown...uh I mean doll of the far left finally got what she sorely deserved.

Her son died to provied Iraqi's the same freedom of speach that she perverts daily (as of late). I personally think she is an idiot...not brave...not a spokes person for anyone or anything patriotic.

Cindy Sheehan (in my opinion) should sit down and shut up!

Tragedy on The Texas Highway

2005-09-23T08:00:00.000-07:00

In a scene reminiscent of the bombed out commuter buses (from terrorist attacks) in Isreal...A burned out bus sits on the Texas highway 45 just outside of Dallas. Currently the death toll sits at 24. Let us keep them and their families in our prayers.

TGIF

2005-09-23T06:21:00.000-07:00

Still working on Getting Chris Warren's Word set up. I posted "for real" for the first time today.

So many things happening today (even though it's slow here)...

Let's all say a prayer for our fellow American's down along the gulf coast...and say a prayer for our leaders as well.

Chris Warren's Word

2005-09-22T08:12:00.000-07:00

Please check out my new blog....Chris Warren's Word.

Leahy to Give Roberts Thumbs UP

2005-09-21T09:16:00.000-07:00

This just in from yahoo.com. It appears Senator Patrick Leahy will vote to confirm Supreme Court Chief Justice Nominee, John Roberts. This could trip up Harry Reid's effort to launch preemptive strike...by claiming he will vote against Roberts.

Stuck on Stupid?

2005-09-21T04:07:00.000-07:00

This may be this funniest one-liner of the year. It the middle of a press conference (with N.O. Mayor Ray Nagin) and being badgered by irrelavent questions...Lt. Gen. Russel Honore put the reporters in their places. See the link to Radio Blogger's transcript.

Hat Tip(s): Hugh Hewitt, Vodka Pundit, Radio Blogger

The Party of No...The SCOTUS Version

2005-09-20T17:24:00.000-07:00

In an attempt to influence the Democrat Senators Harry Reid announced today that he would vote against Bush's Chief Justice nominee John Roberts. What is Robert's "crime"? Failing to pre-judge potential cases that may one day come before him.

Captain's Quarters offered some excellent thoughts:

This sets the Bush administration free to pursue its own ends in its next
nomination. If Reid can't cast a vote for John Roberts, one of the most
uniquely and undeniably talented and qualified prospects for the Supreme
Court at hand, then Reid and the Democrats who follow him will never cast a
vote for any Republican nominee. Reid gives no incentive whatsoever to
negotiate or to consult with the Democrats on selections in the future; no
matter what happens or how well qualified the nominee, they will oppose him
or her.

This will hopefully pave the way for another well respected conservative being nominated for O'Connor's spot. As mentioned above if they are going to live and die by partisanship...why negotiate at all?

O'Reilly Goes to Bat for Bush

2005-09-20T09:50:00.000-07:00

Glad to see someone taking up for "W"...nice tidbits here & here from Bill O'Reilly.

Still Angry Over Sermon....

2005-09-19T10:27:00.000-07:00

An email I sent to the UMC:

Hello,

I have never offered up a "complaint" before regarding the UMC. I am 31 years old and a lifelong memberof the UMC. I will admit my bias from the start that I am a conservative...which is the basic root of my complaint.
My wife & I recently moved from the Dallas Metro area where we attended a large Methodist Church in Flower Mound...Trietsch Memorial UMC. We have since relocated to Southington, CT and are attending Cheshire UMC.
My specific complaint is of pure liberal political views being thrown from the pulpit...and it was from the visiting district superintendent Rev. ****, not the local pastor.
There are many political "hot-topics" that can raise the anger in the best of us...these must somehow be addressed without the blantant taking of sides. It alienates those of differing views.
Rev. **** was giving a wonderful sermon on Moses...and God turning his staff into a snake...and the faith that it takes to "pick up the snake" in our own lives.
Rev. **** "positive" example of this was Cindy Sheehan. He spoke openly of her bravery to question the government over a questionable war. This type of sermon likely causes no angst toward those of a liberal view point. However, those of us who do not feel this way find it offensive and a misuse of the pulpit for political statements.
Being an American I understand and value the freedom of speech from which Rev. **** based his words. I choose to provide my freedom of speech of voice my disent and concern.
Being a lifelong conservative Methodist, it hurts me to hear this overtly political message. It makes me wonder if the UMC is still where I want to make my church home...where I want to financially support, and where I want to someday raise children.
I know free speech should not be tempered...but those who choose to say what they wish and when should at least think of the potential consequences.
Thanks for your time.

Best Regards,

Questioning the Sermon...When Politics in the Pulpit is Offensive

2005-09-18T13:13:00.000-07:00

My wife and I are trying hard to get used to Connecticut. We have found many new challenges to overcome. One of which (and the one I find most shocking) is joining a church.

My wife and I are both lifelong United Methodists, both growing up in small town conservatives United Methodist Churches in Arkansas. We are used to strong Sunday Schools and no (or at least very little) politics from the pulpit.

Upon moving to CT we were disappointed to discover that local area UMC's do not have Sunday School during the summer...several had no adult classes at all. Having moved from the Dallas metro area we left a church of 3,500 members to find CT UMC's averaging less than 200 at their weekly services.

The size and low key Sunday School are tolerable. However the one area that I am struggling with is the extreme liberal ideology of the New England (or at least CT) UMC.

Today I was subjected to a sermon from the local UMC "DS" or district superintendent. All was going well...He was discussing the story of God turning Mose's staff into a snake, and the faith required to pick up the snake before it turned back into a staff. He proceded to lecture on how Christians should "pick up the snake" (i.e. have faith to make scary or hard decisions). So Far So Good...You Say...

At this point the "DS" began to discuss "positive" examples of people "picking up the snake". He began to discuss the "brave young mother" whose son was killed in Iraq, a "questionable war"...who was bold enough to try and hold the administration accountable. YIKES!!

Yes...I almost choked in the pew...the District Superintendent was comparing Cindy Sheehan to Mose picking up the snake. Had this been my first Sunday at the church I would have walked out then and there. This is politics in the pulpit at its worst. As a lifelong United Methodist, I am hurt that this kind of comparison can be made from the pulpit with a straight face.

As a person very new to New England (CT specifically) is this what the United Methodist Church has come to? Is this a common attitude? I am not (yet) ready to leave the church...and I certainly don't want to withholding my financial support to the UMC...but it is really hard to support this type of ideology.

If anyone reading this has had similar situations in New England (or elswhere) I would be interested in hearing about them, and how you dealt with it.

How Dare He Presume to Speak for Everyone!

2005-09-14T12:24:00.000-07:00

U.S. District Judge Lawrence Karlton has gone off the liberal deep end on this ruling. Karlton cited "precedent" based on a ruling that has been overturned by the Supreme Court. God help us with the far-left judicial activists. When the left can't win elections...they resort "pushing " their agenda through via the bench (not a new revelation, I know).

Yahoo.com: Judge: School Pledge Is Unconstitutional
U.S. District Judge Lawrence Karlton ruled that the pledge's reference to one nation "under God" violates school children's right to be "free from a coercive requirement to affirm God."

Boogie Back to Texas

2005-09-13T04:48:00.000-07:00

Here is an interesting tidbit from the Political Grapevine...A hands-off form of management??

...I'm Back...

2005-09-12T04:26:00.000-07:00

Yes, it has been a "while" since my last post. Life has been busy. My wife and I completed our move to Connecticut...ah the joys of corporate relocation. My new job is great...but leaving Texas (and the south) was hard. Some days I think about the line from the recent Sugarland song (for those of you who enjoy country music), "It's a long way from here to the place where the home fires burn...2000 mile and one left turn...)."

Check this Out

2005-04-26T05:07:00.000-07:00

A must read from GOP Bloggers about Democrat's ethics.

East Bound and Down...?

2005-04-14T05:46:00.000-07:00

Big changes are in the works for the Thunder Runner and family. I have taken a new job with a large pharmaceutical company (clinical research department...oncology). Along with the change in job comes a change in residence. My wife and I will be moving from the sunny, hot climate of the Dallas metro area to Connecticut. We will be specifically in the greater New Haven/Hartford area. I will actually have less of commute and hopefully more of yard...

The one pitfall for a conservative Republican, such as myself, is that I'll be moving near the heartbeat of the blue state liberal movement. Not far from NYC...Not too far from Boston...That's ok...I'll just have to work on my ability to convert people over from the "dark side" (cheesy Star Wars reference intended with the new movie coming out soon).

That all for now. Plenty to do here.

Around the Country...

2005-04-13T04:32:00.000-07:00

It's been a LONG time since I've posted...so much has happened...& more to come. Here are a few of the more gripping stories floating around today.

If this doesn't make your blood boil nothing will. (Hat Tip: Captain's Quaters)

I am not a big fan of the United Nations. We need an ambassador who isn't afraid to ruffle of few feathers. John Bolton appears to be the man for the job. Bill Kristol's Weekly Standard column has more on Bolton.

Hmmm....even though I doubt the accuracy of this. What would it say about Democrat voters if it were true.

West Virginia Republican Party Treasurer Hiram Lewis IV plans to run against Democratic Senator Robert Byrd. I don't know anything about Lewis...but Byrd I don't care for. Best of luck to Lewis.

Quote of the day: "You can't use the word "ethical" and "Maryland Democrats" in the same sentence, unless it's to point out they don't have any."-Gregory Kane

Ahh...Go Hogs Go...

2005-02-25T13:43:00.000-08:00

Well it has been a while since I've posted. I'm so busy these days. I work in clinical research (project management/data management)...lately has been one big deadline after another.

Plenty going on in the meantime:

We can only pray that something comes of this. (Hat-tip Power Line)

What is the facination with Condi Rice's wardrobe? See, here, here, & here. A bit odd I have nothing but respect for Rice...but truly could care less about what she wears.

For great commentary on Does the Senate GOP Go McClellan or Grant if Harry Reid "Goes Gingrich?" see Hugh Hewitt.

Janeane Garofalo Insults Us All

2005-02-04T10:47:00.000-08:00

For the Iraqi people the inked-stained fingertip has become the badge of honor bestowed upon those brave enough to vote in the Jan. 30, 2005 election. Several attendees at the recent State of the Union Address honored the Iraqis by appearing with ink on their finger tips.

Janeane Garofalo made clear her disdain for anything remotely positive regarding Iraq on MSNBC's "After Hours". She blasted the State of the Union Address attendees...addressing their political statement with an insulting reference the Nazi regime. It shows her hatred of all things Bush and Republican:

"The inked fingers and the position of them, which is gonna be a Daily Show
photo already, of them signaling in this manner [does the Nazi salute], as if
they have solidarity with the Iraqis who braved physical threats against their
lives to vote as if somehow these inked-fingered Republicans have something to
do with that. And also, the bit of theater about the very distraught parents of
the soldier who had died, the point is not if this was a real moment, if it was
staged, if it was PR. The point is, is those parents and their son were misled
about why that young man went into Iraq. And when he wrote a letter to his
mother saying, 'It's my job to protect you now,' protect her from what? The
imminent threat of Saddam Hussein and his weapons of mass destruction? So don't
bring up, 'Is it helpful if the Democrats make some noise' when they're being
lied to. That's not helpful, that's not helpful to pundits like you maybe, but
it is not helpful to the country when a Republican President and his partisan
Republican Party continue to perpetuate myth and dishonesty on the country."

This is another sad example of liberal extremism. The United States liberated a country of roughly 25 million people from a tyrant. Many were oppressed and murdered during Hussein's reign. Garofalo makes a nonsense reference. A Nazi salute is nothing like the Iraqi vote or those who support it. It is also an insult to our troops and our leaders...not to mention an insult to the Iraqis.

Freedom of speech is great. Iraq voted to earn the priviledge with which Ms. Garofalo spews her hatred. What a hypocrite...setting comfortably in America blasting Iraqi voting, while being protected by the same freedoms that Iraq seeks.
(Hat Tip: GOPBloggers)

In Approval Lt. Gen. James Mattis's Comments

2005-02-04T06:14:00.000-08:00

"Actually it's quite fun to fight them, you know. It's a hell of a hoot. It's fun to shoot some people. I'll be right up there with you. I like brawling. You go into Afghanistan, you got guys who slap women around for five years because they didn't wear a veil. You know, guys like that ain't got no manhood left anyway. So it's a hell of a lot of fun to shoot them." -Lt. Gen. James Mattis

Lt.General James Mattis lead our troops in Afghanistan. Prosecuting a war is not an easy job. It is not for those with weak stomachs or faint hearts. We want (and need) someone leading our troops into harm's way that is a "little rough around the edges". We want someone who has a warriors mentality.

Most of us in the civilian sector have positions that require us to train new employees (often new college grads) skills that involve computers, science, project management, and implementation, etc. Lt. Gen. Mattis has the responsibility for teaching people to kill. Today's military that is no longer strictly a training exercise. The men and women he leads must be prepared to actively use these skills in battle.

One has to remember that the people we are fighting in Iraq and Afghanistan are not saints. They are terrorists and killers. Mattis statements are reflective of someone who has an understanding of war. They reflect a knowledge of someone who must "pyche-up" his troops to go out an do an unenviable task.

We must not crucify the man for his comments. We do not want our troops led by someone who does not understand the enemy or the gravity of the task at hand.

I tip my hat to General Mattis for having the courage to speak his mind.

Enter The Nay-Sayers

2005-01-31T05:44:00.000-08:00

The Iraqi people cast their votes on Sunday. It was a long, hard-fought process...but well worth it. It is a great start to a new error of democracy in Iraq. Sure, the road will be rocky. Their will be major hurdles and problems...but that is not unexpected. This election is certainly not the end of all problems...but a step in the right direction.

The final votes were barely cast before the perpetual nay-sayers of American politics were already trying to down play the success of the elections. John Kerry weighed in with his usual belittling of American success as well as calls for more international involvement.

"It is significant that there is a vote in Iraq,"

"But ... no one in the United States should try to overhype this election."

" This election is a sort of demarcation point, and what really counts now is the effort to have a legitimate political reconciliation," Kerry said. "And it's going to take a massive diplomatic effort and a much more significant outreach to the international community than this administration has been willing to engage in. Absent that, we will not be successful in Iraq,"

Indiana Senator Evan Bayh gave his negative view of events as well:

"This is only one step in what is going to be a long and difficult process."

"It's a good day, but we need to see it through to a successful conclusion," Bayh said. "And frankly, I'm concerned, given some of the past mistakes, whether this leadership team will be capable of that."

Rep. Ike Skelton of Missouri, put in his 2 cents worth as well:

"The Shia will likely control a significant majority of assembly seats, with considerable Kurdish participation," he said. "The Sunnis, on the other hand, are likely to be underrepresented and may denounce the legitimacy of the new government."

I doubt that anyone believes that all problems are now solved with the election. The terrorist insurgents must still be dealt with. Successfully building a democratic government must be tended to. There will be problem. Watching the cheers, dancing, and the tears in the eyes of the Iraqi voter was proof enough that we are doing the right thing.

This Makes Me Sick

2005-01-28T13:43:00.000-08:00

Only Tedd Kennedy would have the utter lack of self-respect to go on record bashing the United State's efforts in Iraq, mere days before the election. If you were searching for a reason to never vote Democrat again...search no further. (Hat Tip: New England Republican).

Tedd's Senate Site outlines his remarks as well.

I find this particular comment ironic from an...I guess it takes someone out of touch to know one...

The Administration relied for advice on self-promoting Iraqi exiles who were out of touch with the Iraqi people and resented by them and the result is an America regarded as occupier, not as liberator. -Tedd Kennedy

Tedd's definition of independence differs somewhat from the real worlds:

The nations in the Middle East are independent, except for Iraq, which began the 20th century under Ottoman occupation and is now beginning the 21st century under American occupation.

Kennedy bashes the intel on the basis of which we went to war (CIA)...then says this:

In fact, the Central Intelligence Agency's top official in Baghdad warned recently that the security situation is deteriorating and is likely to worsen, with escalating violence and more sectarian clashes. How could any President have let this happen?

When did he become the "voice of America"?

The American people are concerned. They recognize that the war with Iraq is not worth the cost in American lives, prestige, and credibility. They understand that this misbegotten war has made America more hated in the world, created new breeding grounds and support for terrorists, and made it harder to win the real war against terrorism the war against Al Qaeda and radical jihadist terrorists.

Not a chance this is right...

Our military and the insurgents are fighting for the same thing the hearts and minds of the people and that is a battle we are not winning.

We thought Saddam broke Iraq...How could 6 billion people have been so wrong:

We need to rethink the Pottery Barn rule. America cannot forever be the potter that sculpts Iraqs future. President Bush broke Iraq, but if we want Iraq to be fixed, the Iraqis must feel that they, not we, own it.

Well enough of picking on Kennedy. Visit New England Republican for more (and better) info on this.

Don't Mess With Texas

2005-01-27T14:03:00.000-08:00

Michelle Malkin hits on an interesting topic from my grad school alma mata: UNT

Condi Rules!

2005-01-27T10:10:00.000-08:00

After much political grandstanding...Condi Rice is now Secretary of State. I wish her the best. Congrats!

Here are a list of those that voted against her...members of the obstructionist left...(Hat Tip: Sobekpundit for the list). Those with asterisks by their name are up for reelection in 2006. Send them packing.

Akaka (D-HI)
Bayh (D-IN)
Boxer (D-CA)
*Byrd (D-WV)
*Dayton (D-MN)
Durbin (D-IL)
Harkin (D-IA)
*Jeffords (I-VT)
*Kennedy (D-MA)
Kerry (D-MA)
Lautenberg (D-NJ)
Levin (D-MI)
Reed (D-RI)

The Real Boogey Man??

2005-01-26T06:51:00.000-08:00

I won't go so far as to claim this is a good idea for children of conservatives...but this is funny none-the-less.
http://www.liberalsundermybed.com/

(Hat Tip: ITA)

Liberals At It Again...

2005-01-26T06:32:00.000-08:00

Once again liberals are trying to squelch free speech and the will of the majority. Read the following petition. (Hat Tip: Boortz)

It's Been A While

2005-01-25T04:18:00.000-08:00

It seems like it's been forever since I posted. (Darned work keeps getting in the way). So much has happened...so many things to write about. Here are a few notable news tidbits:

It looks like Hillary is trying play centrist again...HRC .

Here is an interesting take on the death benefits or "death gratuity" or troops in the GWOT get...

More Later...

The VRWC Hillary Clinton Guide

2005-01-13T08:52:00.000-08:00

Just thought I'd provide a few Hillary links. I don't even pretend to be "fair and balanced" here. We don't know for certain if she'll run for the White House in '08...but we cannot rule it out either. Check out the links below:

On The Issues

The American Conservative Union

HRC Campaign Finance Director Indicted

June 29, 2004

HRC on DHS per GOP

Soft Money

Irreparable Harm

Necessary Elections

2005-01-05T14:01:00.000-08:00

One of the most pressing issues facing us in early 2005 is the Iraqi election. It is of the utmost importance that they are held on Jan. 30, 2005…without delay.

Security will be heightened and everyone will be tense. Fox News reports that we will have 35,000 troops in the streets of Baghdad on Jan. 30th.

While I can say with confidence the election will not be perfect, they are necessary. Will there be attempts at fraud, voter intimidation, murder…? Most likely there will…the Iraqi people should not let this deter them. If they do the terrorist “insurgency” has won.

Nothing would make a greater statement to the world and to the radical Islamic terrorist than for Iraq to stand tall and proud in the face of such adversity and hold free election. Democracy is rarely birthed easily. It usually has growing pains. The United States road has been littered with the bodies of Revolutionary War vets, and Civil War vets. Many a would-be-public servant has watched his or her reputation slaughtered at the hands of the nightly news…or these days blogs. Some rich deserve it others have not.

There are an estimated 30,000 insurgent terrorist in Iraq (Fox). Iraq is a nation of over 25 million (CIA). Using these figures less than 1% of those within Iraq’s borders are terrorist insurgents. This same data suggest that 200,000 sympathizers in Iraq’s borders back the terrorists. Combined they still only account for not quite 1% of the of Iraq’s population.

Iraq need not let a tiny, but extreme, minority dictate their political future. The median Iraqi age is 19.2 per 2004 CIA data. Allowing the opposition to “win” means a lot of lost opportunity of a lot of young individuals who have much of their life ahead of them.

Iraq has shown many signs of bravery. To date…many Iraqi police officers have fallen to terrorist attacks. Recruits still keep coming. The Iraqi military is working hand in hand with the U.S.

Iraqi Defense Minister Hazem Shaalan raised the possibility that elections scheduled for Jan. 30 could be postponed to try to persuade minority Sunni Muslims to participate in the vote. (www.foxnews.com) This should absolutely not happen. While I would encourage the Sunni minority to vote, they are past the point of waiting. It would be a lesson (all be it a hard one) that you can’t be heard if you don’t vote.

Al Qaeda has managed to rear its ugly (and increasingly irrelevant) head. Usama bin Laden has urged the boycott of the Iraqi elections questioning the legitimacy. Al Qaeda and UBL hate freedom and democracy. Each successful election in Muslim nation erodes their power base.

Let us all pray for peace and stability in Iraq on Jan. 30th 2004. May they have the strength and resolve to go to the polls and elect their leadership. What a powerful and beautiful statement that would make…

The world is watching.

College Football Wrap Up/NFL Playoff Favs

2005-01-05T10:41:00.000-08:00

...And just like that it was over. USC, finishing # 1, brought the '04 college NCAA division I football season to a close with a merciless trouncing of OU.

55-19 OUCH!

I must admit...I hoped OU would pull it off. You cannot deny that the Sooners had an excellent season...as did USC, Auburn, Utah, and (as bad as it hurts me to say this...UT Austin).

Now I must wait for next year to see if my beloved Razorbacks will get back on track. In the mean time, I'll be keeping an eye on the NFL playoffs... Since my Dallas Cowboys had an awful season...my favorites are:

Steelers, 15-1 and looking strong
Pats, can't count out Brady & crew
Eagels...but they are now a maybe with "TO" out
Colts...Manning breaking records should lead to good things

2004 Review: Thunder Runner's Top 10

2004-12-31T05:18:00.000-08:00

It seems to me that 2004 blew through like runaway freight train. I tried to prepare for it...and BOOM...just like that it is almost gone.

So much has happen this year, both personally, in the U.S., and globally. I couldn't possible recount everything...but I'll touch on my top ten items (other than number one...they are in no particular order):

Tsunami in South East Asia
George Bush's reelection
Blog Explosion
UN Oil For Food Scandal
CIA: George Tenet out...Porter Goss in
Election in Afghanistan
Yasser Arafat's Death
Florida Hurricanes
CBS Airing Forged Bush National Guard Documents
"Left Wing Liberals"

The crisis in Southeast Asia following the earthquake and Tsunami is mind-boggling. I can't even fathom 120 or 130 thousand (+) deaths. The emotional and psychological impact this will have on those left behind cannot be measured. The potential for disease and starvation for the poor and newly homeless is scary. The devastation to the economies of the effected countries will be staggering. The aid money and efforts are nice...even in awful situations, God shows his face. (If we can just get past the petty squabbling on who donates more...)

George Bush's relection ranks top ten easy. Bush has proven himself a resolute leader, unafraid of difficult decisions...and not easily swayed by the left-leaning MSM. He has spearheaded Afghan election. Iraq is to hold elections in a month. There has not been a terrorist attack on U.S. soil since 9/11.

The explosion of the blogosphere. Blogs have forever changed the course of news. No longer can the MSM print whatever they wish with hidden bias and expect it to be absorbed without question. Ask CBS and Dan Rather. Ask Nick Coleman. Heck, ask John Kerry.

One of the most disturbing and irritating stories is the scandal at the United Nations regarding the Oil For Food Program in Iraq. I don't have enough room to discuss all the details. One thing I will rant and rave about is how it appears improprieties happened on Koffi Anan's watch.

A positive change (which of course has been raked over the coals by the MSM) is George Tenet leaving the CIA and being replaced by Porter Goss. The CIA was rotting with questionable intelligence and politically motivated leaks. Goss appears to be trying to end this practice. There has been a "blood letting" at the top. Hopefully his replacements will be both loyal to him and the administration and work for the common goals of destroying terrorism and increasing national security.

Afghanistan held elections this year...electing Hamid Karzi. This was a major step in the GWOT. Taking down a terrorist regime and replacing it with a democracy is a giant victory!

Yasser Arafat's death was the death of a terrorist. I believe him to have been the single largest roadblock on George Bush's road map to peace. Good riddance. The Palestinians are now moving toward elections.

The hurricanes in Florida were a major event (for the U.S.). Many people lost their homes. Many people were injured or killed (fortunately not at remotely the same level as the current Asian crisis).

CBS and Dan Rather airing the forged copies of George Bush National Guard documents was huge. The MSM was busted...exposed trying to kill the campaing of a sitting President. The MSM was doing a good job of destroying their credibility anyway...this sped the process. Bush should send him a thank you note for helping him gain momentum into a second term.

Lastly I listed the Left Wing Liberals. No other group played a bigger role in trying to change the direction of the U.S. (for the worse). No other group has conjured up more hate, tried to shove immorality down American's throats, and been bigger hypocrites than the Liberals. The liberal left, being so far from main stream, unknowingly pushed voters into Bush's column. Kerry, Edwards, Moore, Soros, Harkin, Clinton, etc. They do not reflect America. The average American cannot stomach their values or political positions and does not wish to.

That is my final rant for 2004. I wish everyone a happy and safe New Year. Enjoy the holidays, reflect on those who cannot (i.e. southeast Asia). I'm sure 2005 will offer up just as many unique and interesting challenges.

Nice Shirt!?!?

2004-12-30T11:03:00.000-08:00

I found a picture on Neal Boortz. Very disturbing. "Stingy" Americans aren't big fans of UBL T-shirts either.

Check Out Shoulder of Giants

2004-12-22T09:01:00.000-08:00

Check out my new post on The Shoulder of Giants. It is a site reflecting on positive role models and leaders. Today I discuss my Grandfather.

Appeasement Is Not The Answer

2004-12-21T06:35:00.000-08:00

The other day I happened to watch CBS 60 Minutes...(not for the political commentary), but I got sucked in to watching about the new life of former NFL running back Ricky Williams and the hard knock past of country music singer and "redneck woman" Gretchen Wilson.

At the end I also watched Andy Rooney. He usually makes interesting and well-thought comments. He ended his segment with a comment with which I take issue.

What we ought to be spending more money on than bomb shelters is a major government program to make us less hated around the world. We aren't bad people, and the rest of the world thinks we are bad. We ought to come up out of our bomb shelters and spend less money on weapons, and more on trying to change the minds of the people who hate us. That's the best way to keep them from trying to poison our food. -Andy Rooney

"We aren't bad people...". No argument there. "The rest of the world thinks we are bad." Do they? Has there been a global poll?

What we ought to be spending more money on than bomb shelters is a major government program to make us less hated around the world.

We ought to come up out of our bomb shelters and spend less money on weapons, and more on trying to change the minds of the people who hate us.

Statement of this context are politics of appeasement. The now infamous "global test" mentality.

Should we have spent less money and effort fighting for independence from England and focused on what we could do to make them like us better...? (i.e. Offer to may even more taxes without representation.)

Should we have asked Hitler if we wanted our involvement in Europe during WWII...he probably didn't like us either. How about Japan and Pearl Harbor? Should we have asked them why they didn't like us instead of route them in war?

The best way to keep the United States safe from terrorist attacks in the form of suicide jets, anthrax, or food borne poisons is not spending large amounts of government money to please our detractors. Dislike of America for one reason or another is inevitable...it will always be present. Hatred of America which gives birth to violent acts of terror is totally unacceptable. You do not reason with it. You do not entertain the ideas of terrorists as cultural norms or plausible options. When you appease your enemies you have just created a crack in your foundation...one in which they will exploit.

A solid, consistent, and resolute (i.e. hardline) policy is what we need. If they dislike us...oh well. We are not to be trampled on. Like Andy Rooney said "We aren't bad people." Let's not let ourselves be treated as such. If we really want to find out why non-terrorist nations dislike us...we should spend more money investigating the scandal at the U.N.'s Oil for Food Program.

The Shoulder of Giants

2004-12-20T13:49:00.000-08:00

I am trying something new. I am starting a second blog. It will be the "sister site", if you will, to Thunder Runner's World. It's name is The Shoulder of Giants.

My game plan is to feature different leaders or individuals who have made a positive contribution to society and focus on their successes.

I do not have my first "feature" post up yet...just a little welcome post. Please stop by and check it out.

Sports Update

2004-12-20T06:18:00.000-08:00

Philly Squeezes Past...
Sunday afternoon the Eagles slid past the Dallas Cowboys with a 12-7 win. Those of us who are Cowboys fans, are disappointed...but are secretly glad it was not worse. This loss all but eliminates the Cowboys from playoff contention (although their hopes were slim at best, prior to Sunday).

Hawg Ball...
The University of Arkansas "Slid" to victory Saturday afternoon. The Razorbacks are 8-1 following Saturday's 102-50 victory over Prairie View A&M. The Hogs play tonight against Lipscomb University. Lipscomb is a team the Hogs would do well not to underestimate, as they come in boasting a 6-1 record.

Not So Mean Green
The University of North Texas UNT fell hard in the New Orleans bowl to Southern Miss (31-10)...an unfortunate end to an otherwise good season. (New Orleans Bowl '04)

A-State Update:
Arkansas State men's basketball stand at 5-2 and play tonight at Sam Houston State. The Tribe

Washington State Should Be in an Uproar Over This!

2004-12-17T08:32:00.000-08:00

Bill OReilly had an interesting column yesterday. Pretty frightening. Judges should uphold the law. Not try and manipulate it.

They're Going to Try and "Frame" Us

2004-12-16T13:21:00.000-08:00

Liberals and Linguistics...

Seth Godin & George Lakoff both bring up an interesting point...Framing.

Godin references Lakoff for the following analogy:

When told “Don’t think of an elephant,” not thinking of one is impossible.It’s impossible because once invoked, the elephant image cannot be unthought. That’s the short, sweet lesson about “framing” that George Lakoff has taught us, a lesson that turns out to have enormous political significance, not only for this past election season, but for ongoing efforts to forge a new and more potent political message for the future. It turns out that the Republicans have spent the last forty years or so making sure they control the language of political debate so that their frames havebeen adopted by all of us — especially by the mainstream media. Think tax relief; think partial birth abortion; think war on terror. Among other things, this control of language means they win elections. In other words, it’s the framing, stupid!

Lakoff teamed up with Howard Dean to write his most recent book...Don't Think of an Elephant: Know Your Values and Frame the Debate--The Essential Guide for Progressives.

Implications?

Who knows...? Sounds like a reasonable assumption, in general terms. Believing that, Republican success in elections lately is chalked up mainly to "framing", would be a massive overstatement.

As long as liberal (or progressives as they're called in the book title) "frame" their Democrat party in terms of anti-Christianity, anti-war, pro-choice, pro-gay marriage, and "global testing"...I think the conservatives will be OK. It does appear they have enlisted some intelligent help in improving their message (or at least the marketing of their book, i.e. Seth Godin).

Breaking News: Bush is Uneducated and Dumb...

2004-12-16T06:28:00.000-08:00

"Good evening, I'm Chevy Chase and you're not" (& Thank Goodness!!!)

The far left has struck again. This time in the form of Chevy Chase. Drudge reported that while speaking at the Kennedy Center, Chase went off on a highly negative rant about Bush.

Chase referred to Bush as a "dumb (expletive)." He used the same word as an adjective, stating, "I'm no (expletive) clown either. ... This guy started a jihad." Chase also said: "This guy in office is an uneducated, real lying schmuck ... and we still couldn't beat him with a bore like Kerry."

Very few doubt Chase intellect...even fewer doubt his ability with humor. His assessment of Bush is questionable at best. Let's look at a few of his assertations:

Bush is a "dumb *!$%#"
This guy started a jihad
He is uneducated

Let's look at the the first and third. Under what pretenses is Bush dumb? He graduated from both Yale and Harvard. (Which by default debunks the uneducated remark). He has been the governor of Texas and will soon start his second term as U.S. President...not my definition of dumb.

"This guy started a jihad". Really? I was under the impression he reacted to a jihad. Did Bush fly planes into buildings in NY? Did Bush attend terrorist training camps in Afghanistan? Where did this come from?

Opinions are one thing. Remarks said in public forums that have no factual basis other than to be inflammatory are different. I am a proponent of free speech, it should be used responsibly. Chase can have whatever opinion he wants, and spew it in the manner he sees fit...but...I would like to see him take each of his accusation and provide point by point evidence for each.

Look How Far We've...uh..Come...??

2004-12-15T08:13:00.000-08:00

Well Christmas is nearly here...the holiday spirit is in full swing. Everyone is having their corporate "holiday" party and schools are having their classroom "holiday" parties. Heck, we even have a Hollywood superstar Nativity Scene.

The Christmas mood is everywhere... If you feel especially charitable...shop Wal-Mart, and donate some spare change to the Salvation Army. If the 'bell ringers' are not your cup of tea...go to Target. Christmas (not holiday) cards are everywhere...Target and Wal-Mart included. If your school (or place or work) won't let you distribute Christmas cards...call the Liberty Counsel (World Magazine Blog).

Does every little thing have to cause a religious controversy? Christmas cards, Christmas parties versus holiday parties...come on....give me a break. No more Nativity Scenes?? I love America...freedom of religion is a good thing...but we've taken it a bit too far at the expense of Christians.

I think back to when I was a kid growing up in rural Arkansas...I actually played Joseph (father of Jesus) in the school (public school, mind you) play. We even sang Christian Christmas carols. No one was offended. No one was forced to participate either.

For those of us who were Christians, we enjoyed it. If there were those that were not...they were exposed to a cultural event and probably learned something. No harm done.

Those that choose to try and diminish and demean the Christian Christmas celebration need to find something better to do with their time. Why Christmas? Why not coins? They do say 'In God We Trust'...We might need to change it to state 'In a not necessarily higher power (should you choose to believe in one) we may or may not trust'.

As a final note...for those that feel Christmas is not being sensitive to other religions, go ask Afghans and Iraqis what they think about freedom of religion and speech.

Some choose religious expression through carols , Nativity scenes, and Bible stories. Other choose religious expression through jihad and flying jets into skyscrapers. Which one sounds better to you?

Christians Really Can Make Informed Decisions...Despite What Some Must Think

2004-12-14T13:08:00.000-08:00

I am posting this in response to Hugh Hewitt post today HughHewitt.com .

Vox Blogoli VI: What does Newsweek's story on Christmas tell us about MSM?

Once again MSM seems to have missed the boat entirely. Jon Meacham offers a misguided and biased opinion piece.

Mark Roberts brings about some interesting points. He brings to light the fact that Meacham either ignores or misrepresents certain facts listed in his article. Facts or numbers that when presented fairly paint to conservative views of the gospels in a far more flattering light.

I agree with Albert Mohler. This seems to be an example of MSM’s obvious liberal slant. Great pains were taken to provide "evidence" that would refute the accuracy of the gospels…but all from liberal scholars. No opportunity was given for conservative rebuttal, no opportunity for meaningful debate.

This is what I find immensely frustrating and condescending about the MSM. They do not feel the average American can make up their own mind, or review the facts and make an informed opinion. This article reeks of the "how can 61 million people be so stupid" mentality.

This article is a one-sided editorial hit piece. Before it can even be taken seriously, you must go back to Mark Roberts points of why are the thoughts of a few liberal scholars taken as truth over the opinions, thoughts, and research of far larger number of conservative scholars? Why are claims made that the gospels have no historical accuracy? Are they alone, not written accounts of what happened?

This article is demeaning to Christians and scholars. We should demand better from MSM.

"But he must ask in faith without any doubting, for the one who doubts is like the surf of the sea, driven and tossed by the wind". James 1:6 NASB

"In thee, O Lord, do I put my trust; let me never be put into confusion." Psalm 71:1 KJV

Long Week

2004-12-14T06:21:00.000-08:00

It's been a long week...

I'm just now trying to get back in the loop. My grandfather passed-away and my wife and I made a whirl wind trip to Arkansas this weekend for the funeral. My grandfather was one of my true heroes...its been hard. (Stress, stress...)

As always happens...with the ending of one life, a new one begins. My sister had a baby last week...a 9 lbs boy...Good Lord...9 lbs!!

Anyways...more later when I catch my breath.

This is Scary

2004-12-08T07:21:00.000-08:00

David Asman as posted on Fox News has the following article. Arundhati Roy has very disturbing opinion on the Iraq war. www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,140673,00.html

Ms. Roy may have won the Nobel Peace Prize...but she seems to advocate senseless violence and terrorism. Nice job Ms. Roy...just what the world needs another terrorist sympathizer.

Do Your Duty or Accept Your Punishment!!

2004-12-08T05:36:00.000-08:00

Michelle Malkin and Captain's Quarters both have excellent posts today about Jeremy Hinzman.

Hinzman deserted his unit (the 82nd Airborne) and ran to Canada, where he is now trying to obtain refugee status. When the GWOT began he did a stint in Afghanistan after an application for conscientious-objector status was denied.

Our military does a wonderful job. People such as Hinzman are a slap in the face to those who willingly and honorably serve their country. Hinzman ran away when the going got tough.

As Malkin points out his conscientious-objector status was a bogus argument at best. He willingly enlisted into the armed services:

Unlike the American draft dodgers who crossed the northern border more than three decades ago, Hinzman volunteered for military service in January 2001. He joined of his own free will. Nobody forced him to go to the recruitment office. Nobody dragged him to Fort Bragg. He happily cashed in his Army paychecks until deployment to Afghanistan was imminent .(www.townhall.com)

An even greater act of hatred toward the U.S. Military by Hinzman was to accuse his former fellow soldiers of the 82nd Airborne of war crimes. His argument was that if he stayed he would have potentially become a war criminal.

To quote Captain Ed, “…Hinzman is a disgusting coward, a low-life who should be serving a long stretch in Leavenworth for his desertion during wartime”.

I agree. Hinzman signed up. There was no draft. He volunteered. How dare he accept pay for the service he has now shirked while men and women are paying for it in blood? He should return to the U.S. and make his last acts as a soldier honorable ones.

This is an utter disgrace to the men and women in uniform. I am personally embarrassed and infuriated. The issue of Hinzman gaining refugee status…should not be an issue. He should either a) shut up and serve his country or b) willing to accept the appropriate punishment for illegally shirking his responsibilities as a soldier.

A Salute To Our Pearl Harbor Vets

2004-12-07T06:21:00.000-08:00

Just a quick note during this time of war...

I'd like to express my gratitude to the veterans of the WWII era that served so valiantly during the attack on Pearl Harbor.

I had the opportunity on two different occasions (while in the Navy) to see the Arizona Memorial. It is a moving site to see a large U.S. Navy warship slow to a crawl with the crew "manning the rails" in honor of our fallen heroes. Knowing that so many brave sailors, went down with the ship makes my service pale in comparison.

I have the utmost respect for the Pearl Harbor Vets. Thanks for your service...America owes you a debt of gratitude.

Froggy Ruminations has a good post about this as well.

Sports Gotta Love It...

2004-12-03T10:47:00.000-08:00

After the "merciless" ribbing of one of my friends...I am blogging on sports today...

How 'Bout Them Hogs...

Football:
unfortunately things did not go so well for the Arkansas Razorbacks in Football this year. They finished the season with a rough loss to LSU. They needed a win to be bowl eligible. Losing, put their record at 5-6, thus giving the Hogs their first losing season since 1997...and Houston Nutt's first losing season ever as a Razorback. Better luck next year...

Basketball:
On a positive note the Razorback Basketball team is 5-0 (for the first time in 7 years). While it is too early in the season to know anything...I'll enjoy it while it lasts anyway. They get their first big obstacle this Saturday as they take on the University of Illinois. Illinois is also 5-0 and ranked 3rd in the nation. If the Razorbacks can pull this one off...I may have to gloat a little...

Cross Country
I ran cross country in high school and this is my blog...so I'll brag a little. The Hogs came in 3rd in the nation on Nov. 22nd in cross country. (Which is actually low by their past standards).

Go Mean Green!!!

I am an alumni of the University of North Texas...so since the Hogs don't get a bowl game, I'll live with the satisfaction that UNT does. Who cares if it's the Sun Belt conference and they actually had to beat the Arkansas State Indians (my undergrad alma mata) to do it... North Texas will face the University of Southern Mississippi in the 2004 New Orleans Bowl on Dec. 14th. North Texas (7-4) will represent the Sun Belt Conference after finishing with a perfect 7-0 league record. Southern Miss (6-4) will be representing Conference USA after finishing in a four-way tie for second place with a 5-3 conference record. (www.meangreensports.com)

In Closing...

Enjoy the holiday season football games both pro and college. If your team is going to a 'bowl' congrats. Think of us who are licking our wounds from an infamous "rebuilding" year. And for my friend who insisted that I write about sport...I'll throw you a bone. Good luck to the Texas Tech Red Raiders.

Time For A Change At The UN

2004-12-01T08:54:00.000-08:00

Hugh Hewitt links to a Wall Street Journal article today from Senator Norm Coleman calling for the resignation of Koffi Annan. I could not agree more. The Oil For Food program is a disaster. Evidence of fraud and abuse is everywhere. Per Senator Coleman:

"Our Investigative Subcommittee has gathered overwhelming evidence that Saddam turned this program on its head. Rather than erode his grip on power, the program was manipulated by Saddam to line his own pockets and actually strengthen his position at the expense of the Iraqi people. At our hearing on Nov. 15, we presented evidence that Saddam accumulated more than $21 billion through abuses of the Oil-for-Food program and U.N. sanctions."

This has happened on Annan's watch. As the UN Secretary General, he should be held accountable for the gross lack of oversite. I cannot say for certain what, or how much (if anything) Annan was aware of...but ignorance is not an excuse that should be tolerated from the head on the United Nations or any other business/political leader for that matter.

It is time for new leadership at the UN. The entire organization is struggling with near irrelevancy. Annan has not provided the strong leadership needed to prevent scandal and apparent fraud. If allegation prove true...or troops fight in the streets of Iraq today because the UN failed. A failure of this magnitude cannot simply be brushed aside. It is time for Annan to step aside and allow justice to prevail and new leadership to chart a course with a modern and relevant future.

Timeless Quotes

2004-11-30T09:36:00.000-08:00

These are quotes that I enjoy for both their motivational (and for some) poetic and/or humorous value. Most can be applied to many of life's situations. When I think of life, love, work, politics, etc...there are few situations where these are not applicable. Taking the time to learn from the great leaders and thinkers who have blazed the trail before us is never time wasted.

"I am ready to meet my Maker. Whether my Maker is prepared for the ordeal of meeting me is another matter."
--Winston Churchill

Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man's character, give him power.
--Abraham Lincoln

The truth of the matter is that you always know the right thing to do. The hard part is doing it.
--General H. Norman Schwarzkopf

"If I have seen further, it is by standing on the shoulder of giants."
--Issac Newton

"Never tell people how to do things. Tell them what to do and they will surprise you with their ingenuity."
--General George Patton

"I expect to pass throughout this life but once. If, therefore, there be any kindness I can show, or any good thing I can do for any fellow being, let me do it now...as I shall not pass this way again."
--William Penn

Good Books That I Should Read Again

2004-11-30T08:02:00.000-08:00

I was reading Hugh Hewitt's post on books worth re-reading. I love to read...but I hardly ever re-read. While I read his post today with links to other people's reading list...I felt that mine probably pales in comparison. Here goes anyway. This is a list of books I have read (and highly recommend) that I should and probably will re-read someday. These may not fall into the realm of literary classics...but I have enjoyed them none-the-less.

War and Politics:
American Soldier by Tommy Franks and Malcolm McConnell
Report From Ground Zero by Dennis Smith
Bush at War by Bob Woodward
Hunting the Jackal by Billy Waugh
Boy Genius by Lou Dubose
Team Bush by Donald F. Kettle the only one I've re-read of this list

Sports:
Friday Night Lights by H.G. Bissinger I had this one long before the movie
Junction Boys by Jime Dent May have read this one twice...again had long before made for TV movie

"All American" Sheerly for Lack of a Better Description:
A Painted House by John Grisham

Christianity/Spirituality:
Tuesdays With Morrie by Mitch Albom I think I've read this one twice...once for grad school & once for fun
The Five People You Meet in Heaven by Mitch Albom
Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren

Other:
Far Tortuga by Peter Matthiessen

Disagreement

2004-11-29T13:11:00.000-08:00

I love reading Bill O'Reilly's columns. They are an excellent place for political commentary and opinions on current events. I truly believe he attempts to give everyone a fair shake. His column today is an attempt to "go to bat" for Dan Rather. He feels Rather got unfairly trashed over the Bush Texas Air National Guard fake memos. See his column here: http://www.billoreilly.com/ .

I disagree with Mr. O'Reilly. Freedom of speech is a two-way street. Dan Rather was responsible for the news content presented. He may indeed have multiple staff members who do the bulk of the research, but that does not alleviate him from his responsibility.

The public, much like the media, has a right to an opinion. Rather's piece on Bush's Air National Guard service took a very unflattering slant. The documentation has been discredited. The public has a right to be angry and speak out. If CBS/Rather is going to present a piece that is controversial they must take the criticism, just as they accept an award for journalistic accomplishment.

Rather is not a victim. Neither is CBS. Bloggers and ultra-conservatives are not bad guys for speaking their mind. This is a case of "you reap what you sew". The Dixie Chicks learned a hard lesson that you are certainly free to speak your mind...but the public is not obligated to listen and shut up. Free speech may carry consequences.

I commend those who have taken a stand. It is important to speak up and be heard. There will be those that disagree with my take. That's OK. Let me know what you think.

For Our Troops

2004-11-29T06:59:00.000-08:00

The following is great link a friend of mine emailed me. It is a moving tribute to our Armed Forces. It's a little long...but well worth it.

To our family, friends, and fellow Americans serving in harms way...I tip my hat. Happy Holidays!

http://www.clermontyellow.accountsupport.com/flash/UntilThen.swf

Addressing elitist

2004-11-23T08:05:00.000-08:00

I am going to rant and rave a little bit about our supposed "elitist"/liberal fellow Americans. I was witness to a conversation, in Sunday school of all places, in which being an elitist was glorified. This growing liberal viewpoint seems to surface even more often now that Bush has won re-election.

Per the American Heritage Dictionary, an elitism is: The belief that certain persons or members of certain classes or groups deserve favored treatment by virtue of their perceived superiority, as in intellect, social status, or financial resources, the sense of entitlement enjoyed by such a group or class, as well as, control, rule, or domination by such a group or class.

The conversation I was witness to went something like this. (Paraphrased) "If I want my children to go to the best schools, live in nice neighborhoods, and experience culture, then fine call me an elitist".

I take exception to this statement. Many people want their children to go to good schools, and universities. Many people (even conservatives, such as myself), enjoy living in nice, safe suburban neighborhoods. I am not an elitist. I don't perceive myself as superior to those less fortunate. I don't believe that I deserve preferential treatment sheerly by some misguided sense of entitlement.

I went to small rural schools (K-12th). I attended a small/mid sized college in primarily rural state for my undergraduate degree. I paid for it with the GI Bill. I went to graduate school at a large university in the Dallas area. It wasn't an Ivy League education...Does that diminish my right to do well? No...of course not. Does that give me free reign to feel elite in comparison to those who have associates degrees, or those who went to "Vo-tech"? Of course not.

If one considers themselves to be an elitist. It is not the desire to obtain the best life can offer. It is the belief that the best life can offer is your entitlement for no other reason than who you are. It is the belief that you (or your kind) should be the leaders and everyone else should follow.

Striving for personal achievement for your family and yourself is high self-esteem, and being motivated. If you choose to throw in the word "elite" in your self-description...be careful. Many of us perceive this as being both racist and arrogant. It certainly makes one appear out of touch with mainstream America.

Not It's Finest Hour...

2004-11-20T14:09:00.000-08:00

I woke up this morning to my usual Saturday morning routine of watching ESPN Sports Center. The Pacers and Pistons were all over the news. What a spectacle. We have probably now witnessed the NBA (and the fans) at their absolute worst.

The question that keeps popping into my mind after watching the fight is...At what point did the guy think it would be a good idea to hit the player with a water bottle? Come on now...regular joe in the stands versus highly trained world-class athlete...Gee, wonder who will win that fight???

I have no sympathy for the 2 "fans" the media focused on fighting on the court. (I'm sure there were more than that). What were they trying to prove? Once they hopped onto the court and into a fight that wasn't theirs to begin with, they got what they deserved...and should be arrested.

The players deserve the suspensions they are getting. I hope charges are pressed against some of the fans as well. That was the most pathetic and idiotic thing I have ever witnessed. There were children crying in the stands with their parents holding them.

The NBA fans deserve far better than this from the men who are paid enormously inflated salaries for what they do. If we wanted a fight, we would watch boxing. This shameful spectacle was stupidity and both guilty fans and players should be dealt with harshly!

Thanks to Michael C. Burgess, M.D.

2004-11-19T07:37:00.000-08:00

The following is a reply I received from my congressman regarding the insurgent shooting incident. Seems they have heard us. Now hopefully they will stand behind him.

Thank you for voicing your opinion about the incident with the U.S.
Marine in Iraq shooting. I appreciate hearing from you on this important
matter.

In the past year, I have traveled to Iraq twice. Each time I have traveled
there, I have been a part of a congressional convoy. I have had the
privilege to meet one-on-one with our brave soldiers. They are bound by
duty, cognizant of the difficulties and security issues which they must
face on a daily basis, and they are confident of their successes. Our
soldiers are well trained and highly skilled at their jobs including how to
handle life-and-death, split-second decisions including the incident
which has gained so much exposure on our news airwaves.

Make no mistake, the hand-to-hand combat and street fighting our
soldiers encounter daily are stressful situations, but they are prepared to
handle them appropriately and with responsibility. The mission is to
locate, isolate, destroy and defeat terrorist groups and former Saddam
loyalists in Fallujah who are preventing the residents from joining a free
Iraq. This operation will help create the conditions for successful
elections in Iraq in January 2005.

The sad truth is that our enemies are not following "rules of warfare
engagement." They are often feigning their deaths only to turn and kill
our soldiers who are attempting to help them. This is a war, and
causalities will occur. I believe that the U.S. Marine made his decision
based on his training and assessment of the risk and situation he and his
fellow troops were in, and I would stand by his decision.

Thank you for taking time to contact me. I appreciate having the
opportunity to represent you in the U.S. House of Representatives. For
more information on legislative initiatives, calendar events, news from
Washington and constituent services, please visit my website at
www.house.gov/burgess.

Sincerely,

Michael C. Burgess, M.D.
Member of Congress

I'd like to express my thanks to Dr. Burgess for his prompt reply. Burgess is a fine Republican from the state of Texas.

The Marine Shooting Insurgent-Update

2004-11-18T13:01:00.000-08:00

I sent an email expressing my concern for the Marine who shot the insurgent faking death, to the USMC (see my previous post for details). I received an prompt and polite reply from the officer who responded:

Thank you for your message. I understand and appreciate your insightful
comments, as well as the comments of hundreds of other patriotic and
supportive Americans.
As I am sure you know, the trust, caring and support of the American public
is the lifeblood of our Corps -- it means the world to our Marines to know
that people just like you are thinking of and supporting them.
Regarding the issue in Fallujah and the NBC video, understand that the
leadership of the 1st Marine Expeditionary Force is conducting an
investigation. At this point I would recommend that we not jump to any
conclusions -- we simply do not know all the facts surrounding the issue at
this time.
I would offer a quote from the 1st Marine Expeditionary Force Commanding
General, Lieutenant General John F. Sattler, as an indication of our
position, "Let me make it perfectly clear: We follow the law of armed
conflict and we hold ourselves to a high standard of accountability. The
facts of this case will be thoroughly pursued to make an informed decision
and to the protect rights of all persons involved."
I have personally served with LtGen. Sattler, and can assure you that he is
a fair and honorable man who will not be swayed by political or public
pressure. He is not one to rush to judgment, but is committed to upholding
the highest standards of Marine Corps ethics, conduct and leadership. In my
opinion, we could not have a better man addressing both the needs of the
individual Marine and the greater Marine Corps.
Thank you again for your message.
Sincerely,

Major Steve Cox
Director, Community Relations
United States Marine Corps

This doesn't shed a lot of light...but nice to know they've heard our concerns.

Help Save A Marine

2004-11-17T10:52:00.000-08:00

Nov. 18th Update:
The following is an online petition to congresson behalf on this Marine:

http://www.petitiononline.com/as123/petition.html

I am pasting a post today from http://www.beautifulatrocities.com/. This is the story of the Marine in Iraq who killed the Iraqi terrorist (insurgent) who was faking death. Please note the instructions for taking action to prevent an injustice against one of our men.

"One of our fighting men has come under 'investigation' for shooting a terrorist who was pretending to be dead in a mosque. The media is spinning this as a 'shooting of a wounded, unarmed Iraqi.' The bottom line is that he was a murderous savage trying to trick one of our soldiers, who then did his job by killing that enemy."Quite a few of our casualties as we liberated Fallujah were soldiers who approached the supposed dead or wounded terrorists only to be injured or killed because the body or person was boobytrapped. This was at a time of combat & our young man did his duty. He deserves a medal, not a lawyer."Please contact the DOD, the White House, your congressional representatives & the USMC to express your support for that brave Marine. Tell them you expect him to be treated as a hero who did his job. Essentially, your voice must eclipse the leftist media who expect to make this another abu Ghraib."

"Please contact the DOD, the White House, your congressional representatives & the USMC to express your support for that brave Marine. Tell them you expect him to be treated as a hero who did his job. Essentially, your voice must eclipse the leftist media who expect to make this another abu Ghraib."
Department of Defense: 703-428-0711
House/Senate Contact: 202-224-3441 (They'll ask for your state, and then connect you).
USMC Public Relations: 703-614-1492
http://www.usmc.mil/ ;
Officer in charge of Branch affairs for public affairs office inside the Commandants office at headquarters Marine Corps Washington D. C. coxsa@hqmc.usmc.mil
Department of Defense: (use their 'contact us' link to e-mail Rumsfeld and everyone else)
President Bush: president@whitehouse.gov
VP Cheney: vicepresident@whitehouse.gov

Thunder Runner Psychology 101

2004-11-16T13:13:00.000-08:00

P.E.S.T., post-election selection trauma...???

Wow, I believe I have now heard it all. Get over it "W" won. America spoke. Here is my take:

P: Political
E: Elitist
S: Sore-Loser
T: Toads

Where are the "conservative psycho-therapists"? Conservatives are suffering too. Many are suffering from:

S.L.I.M.=Silly Liberals Insulting Mindlessly

F.A.K.E =Fear (of) Almost Kerry Election

If you feel you are suffering from one of these ailments...call your liberal friends and gloat. This has been shown to be the most effective methods to beat S.L.I.M. and F.A.K.E. (And most of all thank God, that you don't have the dreaded P.E.S.T.).

DoD vs. Scouting

2004-11-16T06:14:00.000-08:00

I am more than a little put off by the decision from the Pentagon to no longer directly support Boy Scouts. They caved into pressure from the ACLU. The following is a quote from Mike Robinson's article posted on Yahoo.com:

The Pentagon (news - web sites) has agreed to warn military bases worldwide that they should not directly sponsor Boy Scout troops, partially resolving claims that the government has improperly supported a group that requires members to believe in God.

If this annoys you as badly as it does me, I urge you to contact the DoD via their comments area and express your concern:
http://www.dod.mil/faq/comment.html

Or if you choose to write a letter, I have Secretary Rumsfelds address as well:

Honorable Donald H. Rumsfeld Secretary of Defense
1000 Defense Pentagon
Washington, DC 20301

Bush's Cabinet: Keeping Tabs on the Changes

2004-11-15T13:01:00.000-08:00

Nov. 17, 2004 Update:

Since Bush's election day victory there have been constant rumors of the anticipated shake-up in his Cabinet. To date here are the changes:

Justice Department: John Ashcroft (out)...Alberto Gonzales (nominated)

State Department: Colin Powell (out)...Nominee is Condi Rice (National Security Advisor)

Education Secretary: Rod Paige (out)...nominee: Margaret Spellings, Bush's domestic policy adviser

Commerce Secretary: Don Evans (out)...Possible replacement Mercer Reynolds (search), national finance chairman for the Bush campaign

Energy Secretary: Spencer Abraham (out)...potential replacements: deputy energy secretary Kyle McSlarrow, & Tom Kuhn, president of the Edison Electric Institute trade group

Agriculture Secretary: Ann Veneman (out)...potential replacements: Chuck Conner, White House farm adviser, Democratic Rep. Charles Stenholm of Texas, who lost his seat in the Nov. 2 elections, Allen Johnson, the chief U.S. negotiator on agricultural issues, Bill Hawks, undersecretary for marketing and regulatory programs and Charles Kruse, president of the Missouri Farm Bureau Federation. (Yahoo.com)

Secretary of Health & Human Services: Tommy Thompson (no official word)... Medicare chief Mark McClellan is mentioned as a possible replacement

Homeland Security Secretary: Tom Ridge (rumors)...potential replacements: White House homeland security adviser Frances Townsend, Asa Hutchinson (search), Homeland Security Department undersecretary for border and transportation security, and former New Jersey Gov. Thomas Kean (FoxNews.com)

It will indeed be interesting to how all these changes play out.

Thank God For Mississippi

2004-11-15T06:18:00.000-08:00

If you haven't noticed I am a Razorback fan. While I didn't attend U of A. I grew up in Arkansas...and bleed Razorback Red. It has been a painful season so far. We have a very young team, and they face a daunting schedule in the SEC.

The Hogs finally posted a much needed win this weekend at their last Fayetteville home game against Ole Miss. The more recent years have turned this into quite the series. While neither have been national title contenders lately they have played each other tough. The high (or low) point depending on whether your a Rebel or Razorback fan was the 7 Overtime game.

This year's game went well for the Hawgs. They chalked up a 35-3 "W" over Ole Miss. This also marked the last Fayetteville home game for Matt Jones, Arkansas QB.

Arkansas has two games left. They go to Starksville, MS to play Miss St. (A team who they would underestimate at their own peril...ask Florida). Their final game of the season is against LSU in Little Rock.

If they win both games, that would give the Hogs a 6-5 record, and make them Bowl-eligible. Those of us who are hard-core fans will be praying.

Just For Fun...

2004-11-12T05:42:00.000-08:00

How Could 56, 382, 9876 People Be So Dumb?

How could it have happened? What on earth went wrong? My head is pounding and my stomach is turning at the thought. I have been racking my brain for days now trying to figure out how slightly more than 48% of the U.S. population voted for Kerry.

Could it be stupidity? Are our coastal dwellers really that dumb? I am a little frightened. A large majority of the "blue states" are coastal...Atlantic, Pacific, or on the shoreline of the Great Lakes. I wonder if something is wrong with the water...or if stupid people flock toward shoreline areas to live.

Oh my goodness...I just realized, New York is a very blue state on the Atlantic coast. That's where Wall Street is! Should we move our financial epicenter to Memphis or Dallas? The people there are obviously smarter. They are both "Red States". Maybe the markets would never go down again if we moved them.

Wow! I just thought of something...California. There is another problem "blue state". There are people out there that couldn't pass college...and had to settle for acting as a career. (And we've all heard the old saying, "If you can't do, act."). So they are obviously an under-educated, under-employed society. Should they have even been allowed to vote?

The "Blue State" dwellers are obviously bottom dwellers. They are all non-God fearing heathens treading on hell's fast track. Many don't even like to hunt, and some haven't ever owned a pickup truck. (It's true they are like animals).

It is true...56, 382, 976 Americans voted for Kerry. This is a very worrisome trend. We must do our best to educate these "liberals". If this continues those of us who find ourselves in the 51% majority are going to have to take care of these people. I am for peaceful solutions though...I say we work out an agreement with Canada. They could take on an extra 56 million or so. We could call it Kerryland (the land for those who can't hack it in Jesusland).

No Loss To Society

2004-11-12T04:50:00.000-08:00

Our world today is an ever changing place. Evils lurk around every corner. September 11, 2001 showed Americans that we are not immune to such evils at our doorstep. There are those in the world who promote evil. They are advocates of terrorism and mindless violence. Yasser Arafat, if not actively promoting terror, did precious little to stop it.

Sept 11, 2001...As America wept and counted her fallen, the Palestinians danced in the streets to the tune of our sorrow.

Yasser Arafat is dead. What effect does this have on society? On America? On Israel? I say it opens the door for progress. Sure, there are terrorists factions active...but a major player is gone. Israel, the Palestinians, America, as well as all of the Middle East should seize upon this opportunity and hang on for dear life.

Is Arafat a man that should gain honor with death? I have my doubts. I have read excerpts of Jimmy Carter praising Arafat. I have seen Kofi Annan's kind words of Arafat. What kind of message does this send to the families of the victims of terrorist? It leaves me with a sick feeling in my stomach to see former leaders of my country and well known international leaders praising a terrorist.

I fear that Arafat was cut from the same cloth as UBL. Violence in the name of "progress" was his mantra. I for one will not "dance in the streets" because of his passing. I do, however, since his death will bring his most lasting legacy...a true and legitimate change for peace.

Salute To Our Veterans

2004-11-11T05:31:00.000-08:00

Today is a day that will forever hold it's place in history. The world woke up to the news of Yasser Arafat's death. Today our troops, along side their new Iraqi allies battle terrorists on the streets of Fallujah. I will not dwell on terrorists. I want to thank the men and women of the United States Armed Forces. You do an outstanding service for your country and we are proud of you and forever indebted.

Today is also a time to think of those we have served in days past and those who did not make it home. I want to thank you as well. Your courage and sacrifice made us all safer. My Grandfathers, and their generation, made the world safe from the threat of Hitler and the Nazi regime, as well as defending us against Japan. Their sons and daughters, in turn, fought communism in the jungles of Vietnam. Again America answered the call and sent her sons and daughters to the Persian Gulf to defend Kuwait against an evil regime. Even now as we speak, our units are in harms way again in the Global War on Terror.

I also want to thank the countless veterans who served during times of peace. Many of us answered the call to serve our country and thanks to the sacrifices of those before us (and now after) did not have to face a hostile enemy.

I salute you Seamen, Airmen, Soldiers, and Marines. I will continue to pray for your safety daily!

Gonzales New Head of Justice Dept.?

2004-11-10T13:26:00.000-08:00

In wake of John Ashcroft's resignation as Attorney General...It appears Alberto Gonzales maybe Bush's choice for the job. I have not seen any absolutes, but reports on Powerline, The Drudge Report, and well as www.foxnews.com suggest he is getting the nod. Per Michelle Malkin earlier today quoting a Jan. 2003 Robert Novak column he apparently has somewhat of a moderate to leftward leaning ideology, which concerns some.

Just For Fun...

2004-11-10T06:37:00.000-08:00

The Thunder Runner '04 Football Top Ten List:

First of all I'd like to wish my Grandmother a happy birthday!

This is a fun, basically non-sense list of the 2004 football happenings to date...NFL, college, whatever. These are just some of the ones I happened to enjoy. I have 10 or so...no real order.

Texas loses to OU...always a personal favorite
The Monday Night Football "Jacked-Up" List...who doesn't like watching human train wrecks
Friday Night Lights... What's not to love about this classic?
Baylor beating Texas A&M (While A&M is having a good season to boot.)
Ben Roethlisberger (rookie QB Steelers)...Amazing...
Razorback Football!!! They're having a down year, but I don't care...still love 'em.
Getting stuck in Grambling/Prairie View game traffic while headed to Texas State Fair (NOT!!)
Picking up Drew Brees for my fantasy football team and having him throw 9 TD passes in 2 weeks
Roy Williams (Dallas Cowboys DB)...Even though their struggling, he still manages to drop the boom on more than his fair share of unlucky souls
John Gruden...Tampa Bay Coach...he's fun to watch even when his team is not...
Bonus: Mississippi State beating Florida and subsequent fall-out...
Bonus: (And for my friend)...Texas Tech...anyone that can slip in a 70-10 butt kicking on Nebraska has to make my list...

Enjoy...

DNC (Do Not Come)

2004-11-09T06:24:00.000-08:00

It is clear to most conservatives that the Democratic Party has strayed far from the mainstream. Their '04 failed Presidential nominee was the most liberal senator in the nation, with a VP nominee (now former senator) whose liberal voting record did not rank too far behind. The Democrat Party hopped on the Michael Moore bandwagon hoping to drum up enough hate to beat President Bush.

The ultra out-of-touch Hollywood-liberal approach wasn't quite getting the job done so they enlisted the support of caustic hate politics in the form of Senator Tom Harkin (Iowa) and Joe Biden (Delaware), among others. The endless barrage of negative comments and verbal assaults couldn't stop the Bush "train".

In moves that showed how truly out-of-touch they are with America, they enlisted the support of former President Jimmy Carter, and former Vice President Al Gore. Again, the bitter rantings of two former presidential candidates (both of whom lost to Republicans)...served as little more than noise pollution.

The underlying theme of the modern Democratic Party and Democratic National Committee (DNC) is do not come. We pander to ultra liberal views. If you believe in God do not come. If you believe marriage is a sacred bond between one man and one woman do not come. If you don't believe that abortions should be obtainable with ease do not come. We are not interested in meaningful debate of the issues...if you do not believe as we do...you do not count (DNC), do not come.

If efforts to reshape the DNC following their shattering defeat on Nov. 3rd. They have unleashed a bold new barrage of insults of the 59 million (plus) who voted for Bush. Conservatives are ignorant and stupid. We all live in Jesusland. One important development is Howard Dean's apparent interest in running the DNC. This should do much to tone down the liberal/negative ideals of the party...NOT.

I have a message to the liberal hate machine. Being conservative does not make one ignorant. We are very in tune with current events and social issues. Some of us live in large metro areas and have graduate level degrees and work for large corporations. Some of us live in tiny rural communities (and have graduate level degrees). Some (maybe many) of us are Christians...and proud to be. The Jesusland reference is meaningless as an insult. Many of us have traveled outside the borders of the United States. Many of us are veterans. Many of us feel a since of pride and patriotism that is does not come from "being used by Bush". Before you tread much further with your insults...Remember this. We are the majority.

Verbal Vomit

2004-11-08T09:29:00.000-08:00

I am sick to death of reading and hearing about all the destructive, divisive, and nasty remarks coming from the liberal left wingers. They brazenly accuse the Bush administration of being dividers...maybe they should read their own comments. I found a few:

"Let's face it. 9-11 pulled the country to the right. America is now a conservative (stupid) nation." (Democratic Underground)

"Those who died in this war did not die for their country. They died for their government. They died for Bush and Cheney and Rumsfeld. And yes, they died for the greed of the oil cartels, for the expansion of the American empire, for the political ambitions of the President. They died to cover up the theft of the nation's wealth to pay for the machines of death." (Progressive.org)

OTTAWA (Reuters) - The number of U.S. citizens visiting Canada's main immigration website has shot up six-fold as Americans flirt with the idea of abandoning their homeland after President George W. Bush (news - web sites)'s election win this week.

"All the people in the states with the lower IQs voted for Bush, and the people with the higher IQs voted for Kerry. That really says something." http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,130229,00.html

From MichaelMoore.com:
A self-serving, dim-witted, draft-dodging, gung-ho little rich boy, whose idea of courage is to yell: "I feel good," as he unleashes an awesome fury which slaughters 100,000 innocents for no other reason than greed and vanity.

This once-great country has pulled up its drawbridge for another four years and stuck a finger up to the billions of us forced to share the same air. And in doing so, it has shown itself to be a fearful, backward-looking and very small nation.

On behalf of conservatives everywhere, while I am sick to death of the verbal vomit...I encourage you to keep it up at a feverish pace. Quotes like this should solidify your place as "also rans" in elections for years to come.

Oh My Broken Heart...Watching My Teams Get Blasted

2004-11-07T13:51:00.000-08:00

I am a sports fan...especially football. I have been a die hard University of Arkansas Razorback and Dallas Cowboys fan for as long as I can remember. This season is a painful "rebuilding" year for both teams. Neither have winning record. My "Hawgs" lost to South Carolina by 3 pts yesterday. (They now have to win the rest of their games to be bowl eligible). The Cowboys just got ripped by the Bengals. A playoff spot is not looking likely. Well, just venting a little. Plenty of good teams out there as well (and lots of good games left). And there's always next week for my Razorbacks...

My Word on the Judiciary Committee

2004-11-05T10:09:00.000-08:00

Arlen Specter was re-elected as a Republican Senator in Pennsylvania. Specter is expected to chair the Judiciary Committee. I do respect Mr. Specter but have deep concerns over some of his recent comments regarding the potential appointment of Justices. With a 51% majority of the popular vote, Bush carries with him a mandate to push forward with a conservative agenda (including potentially replacing retiring justices of the Supreme Court). My fear is that Specters comments show an underlying attitude of appeasement with regards to serious conservative issues. I urge everyone to contact their Senators or members of the Judiciary Committee to express their concern. Please note the contact information below (which I took from http://www.nationalreview.com/thecorner/corner.asp).

Specter's Comments:
"When you talk about judges who would change the right of a woman to choose, overturn Roe v. Wade, I think that is unlikely,"

"The president is well aware of what happened, when a bunch of his nominees were sent up, with the filibuster," Specter added, referring to Senate Democrats' success over the past four years in blocking the confirmation of many of Bush's conservative judicial picks. "... And I would expect the president to be mindful of the considerations which I am mentioning."

Here are the numbers for Senate Republicans on the Judiciary Committee. If you want to take action... call your Republican senators. If you do not have a Republican senator, call Republicans on the Judicary Committee. They are:
Hatch (202) 224-5251
Grassley (202)224.3744
Kyl (202) 224-4521
DeWine (202) 224-2315
Sessions (202) 224-4124
Graham (202) 224-5972
Craig 202/224-2752
Chambliss (202) 224-3521
Cornyn 202-224-2934
Get your senator's phone number/e-mail from the directory at www.senate.gov .

2004-11-04T05:25:00.000-08:00

The 2004 Presidential election has been long and painful. It has been the verbal, political, and media version of combat played out in front of the world. This morning I breath a sigh of relief that the toxic political rhetoric has died down (in the U.S.), if only temporarily...It won't last long. (I've probably just been in too good of a mood to notice). Now it is time to get back to business for Bush. I truly look forward to it.

The Things You Hear At Lunch!

2004-11-03T11:05:00.000-08:00

In a few minutes Kerry is scheduled to give his concession speech. The whining from the other side has just about made me sick. Here are a few silly quotes:

"What now... are they going to tell me I can't marry an Italian?" Apparently this has something to do with states ok'ing same sex marriage bans...or at least best I could tell from the rest of the conversation I heard...

"They are going to take away my social security" Yes, now that there is a slightly larger majority in the house and senate the first item of business is to abolish social security, and use the money to buy better seat cushions for the house and senate chambers....Whatever!

Not only have I heard the silly comments...I have heard the blatantly insulting one as well:

"Kompassionate Khristian Konservatives...i.e. KKK" ...Completely offensive!

I had hoped for some civility from the Kerry supporters. (I'm sure these comments don't reflect every Democrat's view). However, they are inaccurate and highly offensive none-the-less.

Kerry Concedes Race

2004-11-03T09:04:00.000-08:00

http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,137486,00.html See the article from Fox News. Congrats to Bush.

Kerry Concedes

2004-11-03T08:58:00.000-08:00

It appears to be official...Kerry has called and conceded to Bush. See http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,137486,00.html. It has been a good day for Republicans.

The Morning After...

2004-11-03T05:34:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to George Bush and the rest of the Republican party. Congratulations to all who voted (regardless of your party affiliations). Fantastic voter turnout! Unless a new statistical methodology is developed, it appears Bush will lead us for four more years! While the provisional ballots, will (and should) be counted...things stand it favor of the President.

In other world events Hamid Karzai was declared the winner of the Afghan election. According to Fox News, Karzai won 55.4% of the votes.

Mid Day Election Updates

2004-11-02T10:35:00.000-08:00

So far ... We have learned of some attempts at voter fraud in Philly. See http://www.drudgereport.com/ for more details. I have read reports of large voter turn-out (which was expected). Remember get out and vote...don't let the long lines deter you.

This is tidbit is too early (of course) to call good news, but interesting none-the-less is Democrat pollster Mark Mellman stating his belief that we'll get a "W" for "Dubya" based on his professional assessment. http://www.powerlineblog.com/

Its Time!

2004-11-02T05:35:00.000-08:00

Today is crunch time. It is time to decide who will be our President for the next four years. It looks like the leadership of our nation depends greatly on Florida, Ohio, and and just a few other "swing states". I urge everyone to get out and vote. Vote Republican....Let's keep George Bush for another term. After 4 years, we have terrorists on the run. We have not suffered another "9-11" style attack on our soil. We have taken the fight to their doorsteps. Let's not revert back to summits, negotiations, and global tests for our national security. Our troops have done a remarkable job! Let's continue to give them the leadership and support they need.

UBL's latest video tape is desperation. They have failed to thwart the resolve of the "infidels". Now they have resorted to scare tactics... They will not work. The United States will win.

Welcome to Thunder Runner's World

2004-11-01T10:53:00.000-08:00

Welcome to Thunder Runner's World. This blog will be my attempt to discuss politics, sports, and other current events that I target. I will always welcome any feedback (good or bad).

Obviously, tomorrow's election is on everyone's mind. I encourage everyone to vote (if you haven't already). Watching the election unfold in Afghanistan and Iraq's future elections should provide you even further reason to exercise your right to vote. We have it easyin the U.S.

I am a conservative (without apology). I support George Bush...and hope for his success tomorrow.