Why is the 2nd Amendment important? Among all the important reasons of a free America, and a free citizen, is that of simple self protection.
There are those who are totally against gun ownership by private citizens. And there are those who sorta support the second amendment, but not Concealed Carry. In the minds of some, "let the police do it", would be their response. That last thought it where I'm headed with this.
Just this past week, a woman in our office building was out for her walk over lunch. She walks around the sidewalk that surrounds the building. She walks each day the weather is nice, and at just before noon. On this day, it was a beautiful day, sunny,warm temps, and perfect for walking. There were plenty of people coming and going in and out of the bank building. No one would expect this to involve any danger.
While she was walking, near the underground garage entrance, a man approached her, pandering for money. When she tried to back away, he grabbed her by her arm. Fortunately, she was able to pull away and run to the building for help. At that time, one of the building maintenance men saw what happened and went toward the man. The man then pulled out a box cutter and lunged at him. He was able to dodge the thrust and the man then took off. (It was later learned that after those assault, he tried to assault another woman a block away.)
9-1-1 was immediately called. A second call was made. And the wait began. And more wait, After about 35 minutes .... yes, 35 minutes .... the police arrive. Once they began getting the story, the building security told them that the suspect was ON CAMERA, almost two blocks away, drinking a beer. The police then were able to go grab the guy and haul his ass to jail.
35 minutes. If you're a victim of a violent crime, "3" minutes is alreay way to long. But "35" minutes, is a lifetime. A frustrating and anxious time to "wait for the police". Had that event turned deadly, someone would have bled out and a chalk outline would be there after the body is taken away!
In this case, it was very fortunate that no one was injured. THIS TIME, with THIS CASE, no one was injured. But it very easily could have turned out differently. And no one around, could have stopped it. (Security for the bank, who are armed, can not [and should not] leave their posts inside.)
I am not advocating that every citizen be armed. I AM advocating that ANY citizen, who can legally own and carry a firearm, and who will take the required course to do so, should be permitted to carry. And should be permitted to carry most everywhere, for violent crime happens everywhere.
As I have said and written about before, for all the desire of the police to get to a scene BEFORE a violent incident happens, the fact is that they don't even know it's happened until someone calls it in. That means a VICTIM has already be made and the crime has already happened, at least in part. Waiting for the police to do handle it, is great for the response and investigation, but is almost always too late for the victim.
I want MY opportunity to protect myself and my family. And I don't want anyone to tell me I can't have that right. I totally get the training and background check being required, and the expectation (legally and morally) of being responsible for my own actions. But I should, an in my view, have the right to protect my family and myself. One man with a knife, or 4 men with bats, is defendable against with a good handgun!
Saturday, May 21, 2011
Saturday, May 7, 2011
Are You Anti-Gun?
The world is not always a friendly place. With our wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, and the constant threat to our very existence by terror groups, the world scene is scary enough. Throw in the drug wars just across our southern border, as well as the day-to-day victimization from hoodlums, it can be down right deadly right here at home.
So, with all that potential, let's say all hell did brake loose. A nation on our highest alert. Emergency services pushed to their limits. An attack has caused major black-outs of electricity. People panic and start looting the stores. Police are swamped with calls for emergencies. Cell phones quit working. Gas pumps won't work (no electricity), so leaving the city is not an option. ATM's can't work, so you can't get your cash out. City services, including water and sewer, stop working. Food is gone off the store shelves. Human predators start walking the streets, looking to take what they want from others, be it their property, or their lives.
(If you prefer - Just consider a major earthquake or Katrina-like disaster, if that helps you get the idea.)
You are now in fear for your family's safety. Police are NOT available. EMT's aren't available. Gangs of hoodlums are a block away, and you hear breaking glass and people screaming for help. Hordes of hoodlums comb the streets, carrying baseball bats, pieces of steel rebar from a nearby construction site, and knives, and they are coming your way. Your spouse has fear in her/his face. The kids tremble with fear. They are all looking to you ... someone ... to protect them.
Next door to your left, is a very out-spoken anti-gun neighbor, who has always been very adamant about gun control. "It's the Police's job to protect us, people don't need to own guns," has been a common chant of his.
The other neighbor to your right, has NRA stickers on his car windows. In past days, you've smiled and shook your head, as you've often seen him, the "gun nut", leave for the range each week, carrying his cased AR-15 and assorted other firearms, and ammo. You recall one of your conversations with him, an old Vietnam Vet and sport shooter, whom you had just told that you didn't think anyone needed an "assault weapon", and you "weren't interested in joining the NRA".
You don't own a firearm. And now, you have no chance to go buy one, practice with one, or show your family the safe uses of one. So, now ... what are YOU going to do? Are you going to run to the anti-gun neighbor, and hope the "Gun Free Household" sign on his door will protect you?
Or will you be going to your "gun nut" NRA member neighbor to the right, and ask if he could help protect you and your family?
I don't advocate firearms ownership for everybody. Some people will not be responsible enough to learn proper use and care of one. Some too, are simply not able to pull the trigger on another person, even if their own life depended on it. For those people, get a good dog.
Otherwise, I am a firm believer that each of us are our own "first line of defense", and should be prepared to act in the face of threat to your family or yourself. And I highly recommend joining the NRA. The NRA is our single most important advocate for the 2nd amendment, and for personal protection.
By the way, it doesn't take such a dire set of circumstances for that need to protect your family. Victims are made every hour of every day. If nothing else, know this - For all their desires to do otherwise, the Police respond to a call AFTER there has already been someone victimized. For that victim, it is often too late. THAT is where murder trials start from.
If you choose to not own a firearm, that's okay by me. But don't try to impose YOUR choice on me.
So, with all that potential, let's say all hell did brake loose. A nation on our highest alert. Emergency services pushed to their limits. An attack has caused major black-outs of electricity. People panic and start looting the stores. Police are swamped with calls for emergencies. Cell phones quit working. Gas pumps won't work (no electricity), so leaving the city is not an option. ATM's can't work, so you can't get your cash out. City services, including water and sewer, stop working. Food is gone off the store shelves. Human predators start walking the streets, looking to take what they want from others, be it their property, or their lives.
(If you prefer - Just consider a major earthquake or Katrina-like disaster, if that helps you get the idea.)
You are now in fear for your family's safety. Police are NOT available. EMT's aren't available. Gangs of hoodlums are a block away, and you hear breaking glass and people screaming for help. Hordes of hoodlums comb the streets, carrying baseball bats, pieces of steel rebar from a nearby construction site, and knives, and they are coming your way. Your spouse has fear in her/his face. The kids tremble with fear. They are all looking to you ... someone ... to protect them.
Next door to your left, is a very out-spoken anti-gun neighbor, who has always been very adamant about gun control. "It's the Police's job to protect us, people don't need to own guns," has been a common chant of his.
The other neighbor to your right, has NRA stickers on his car windows. In past days, you've smiled and shook your head, as you've often seen him, the "gun nut", leave for the range each week, carrying his cased AR-15 and assorted other firearms, and ammo. You recall one of your conversations with him, an old Vietnam Vet and sport shooter, whom you had just told that you didn't think anyone needed an "assault weapon", and you "weren't interested in joining the NRA".
You don't own a firearm. And now, you have no chance to go buy one, practice with one, or show your family the safe uses of one. So, now ... what are YOU going to do? Are you going to run to the anti-gun neighbor, and hope the "Gun Free Household" sign on his door will protect you?
Or will you be going to your "gun nut" NRA member neighbor to the right, and ask if he could help protect you and your family?
I don't advocate firearms ownership for everybody. Some people will not be responsible enough to learn proper use and care of one. Some too, are simply not able to pull the trigger on another person, even if their own life depended on it. For those people, get a good dog.
Otherwise, I am a firm believer that each of us are our own "first line of defense", and should be prepared to act in the face of threat to your family or yourself. And I highly recommend joining the NRA. The NRA is our single most important advocate for the 2nd amendment, and for personal protection.
By the way, it doesn't take such a dire set of circumstances for that need to protect your family. Victims are made every hour of every day. If nothing else, know this - For all their desires to do otherwise, the Police respond to a call AFTER there has already been someone victimized. For that victim, it is often too late. THAT is where murder trials start from.
If you choose to not own a firearm, that's okay by me. But don't try to impose YOUR choice on me.
Saturday, March 5, 2011
The Economy and the Easy Button
What a mess we're in...the nation, that is. Nationally, we don't have a balanced budget. I'm not even sure we can balance it, the way we're blowing our nation's wealth.
In Wisconsin, that Governor has chosen a tough road, that is drawing bitter lines among that state's population.
And the partisanship seems to have prevented real rational voices for real answers, to be lost on those in power to listen.
But this simple guy sees it this way. Its usually the wrong choice to make, that is easiest. And the right choice, is often the hardest to make. Folks, their ain't no easy button for this problem.
The easy thing to do, to sooth nervous citizens and weak-kneed politicians, would be to keep on printing money, throwing money at the real problems, and just keep on building debt.
The hard thing to, is to stop the spending every where we can. We also need to make cuts, for everything that doesn't involve our security. Everyone needs to expect cuts. That also means that every corporation in America, needs to trim their budgets of fat and greed, and apply as much as possible to job growth.
EVERYONE needs to expect, and accept, cuts. And if we cut everywhere, maybe then, none of the cuts will hurt as much. But, short of national security matters, and that of emergency services and responders (who should still cut their fat), we can no longer yell, "Not me", and protest cost saving cuts for one, while expecting it for everyone else.
And during this time of cutting, if ONE politician votes for even a 1/2 % raise, they should be hung from a yard iron!
Corporate boards - If you have laid people off, but voted huge bonuses and raises for management and above .... shame on you, and I hope to know who you are, and I will not spend one dime on your product or services.
Lastly, while hard to find in stores anymore, as much - BUY AMERICAN. While some things aren't even made here anymore, when given a choice, choose American made, even if it costs bit more. (I've been guilty too, and will be watching my own purchases.)
Time to tighten America's budget, and balance same.
In Wisconsin, that Governor has chosen a tough road, that is drawing bitter lines among that state's population.
And the partisanship seems to have prevented real rational voices for real answers, to be lost on those in power to listen.
But this simple guy sees it this way. Its usually the wrong choice to make, that is easiest. And the right choice, is often the hardest to make. Folks, their ain't no easy button for this problem.
The easy thing to do, to sooth nervous citizens and weak-kneed politicians, would be to keep on printing money, throwing money at the real problems, and just keep on building debt.
The hard thing to, is to stop the spending every where we can. We also need to make cuts, for everything that doesn't involve our security. Everyone needs to expect cuts. That also means that every corporation in America, needs to trim their budgets of fat and greed, and apply as much as possible to job growth.
EVERYONE needs to expect, and accept, cuts. And if we cut everywhere, maybe then, none of the cuts will hurt as much. But, short of national security matters, and that of emergency services and responders (who should still cut their fat), we can no longer yell, "Not me", and protest cost saving cuts for one, while expecting it for everyone else.
And during this time of cutting, if ONE politician votes for even a 1/2 % raise, they should be hung from a yard iron!
Corporate boards - If you have laid people off, but voted huge bonuses and raises for management and above .... shame on you, and I hope to know who you are, and I will not spend one dime on your product or services.
Lastly, while hard to find in stores anymore, as much - BUY AMERICAN. While some things aren't even made here anymore, when given a choice, choose American made, even if it costs bit more. (I've been guilty too, and will be watching my own purchases.)
Time to tighten America's budget, and balance same.
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Should America Be Feared?
Yes! But let me explain where I'm coming from.
From my early childhood days, I feared many people and things. I feared my parents. I feared my school principals. I feared the police. I feared some bullies. I feared what Cuba might do. I feared the moonless night on a Kentucky farm. I feared those things (and more) for different reasons.
As for my parents, school principals, and police officers - I feared them IF I did wrong. I feared the wrath that would come, if I did wrong. I didn't fear living with them, or going to school, or seeing the police drive down the street. But I respected them, for who they were and what they each stood for.
Bullies were another matter. I feared getting beat up, for NO reason. I feared crossing their paths, because I knew they needed no reason for coming after me. But I had NO respect for them.
I feared the moonless night on my great uncle's Kentucky farm, because I didn't know what might be "out there" in the dark. Respect played no part of it, I was just scared of the unknown.
Cuba, as well as Russia, were a threat to our nation, and I feared destruction from their missiles. Our nations were at odds, and I had no control over what might happen, but knew that Dayton, my home town, was a target. And I had no respect for those countries.
It seems to me, that America is no longer feared, and barely respected. We used to be both. And I see it this way. One can be both feared, and respected. And I think America should be both.
We should be feared. Feared that if another country, or even any group of people, would try to do us harm, a world of hurt would come down upon them. Come down hard, fast, and survivability in extreme doubt. With that, we should use all degrees of force needed, plus one, to defeat those who would attack us.
As for respect? Respect, in that for all others in the world, we can be counted on for aid of all kinds, in times of natural calamities, and hostile threats. If you are not our enemy, then expect our friendship. In turn, we should respect the sovereignty and laws of other nations, and expect our laws to be respected when others visit us.
America leads the world in aid. Our military is almost always first on the scene for some nation in times of natural disaster. American taxpayers have provided untold billions in relief and support. Too much in some cases, as we've given money to countries who only betray us later, or betray their own people.
To the countries around the world, I would say this - If you need and want our help and friendship, we're here for you. But if you mean us harm, militarily or otherwise, then don't hold your hand out for anything other than a slap-down. If our aid, comes with conditions you don't like, then simply don't ask or take our help. There are other countries out there who might help, so talk to them. But the days of holding a hand out for help with one hand, while holding a gun to do us harm in the other, should be forever laid to rest. Pick one, but not both!
From my early childhood days, I feared many people and things. I feared my parents. I feared my school principals. I feared the police. I feared some bullies. I feared what Cuba might do. I feared the moonless night on a Kentucky farm. I feared those things (and more) for different reasons.
As for my parents, school principals, and police officers - I feared them IF I did wrong. I feared the wrath that would come, if I did wrong. I didn't fear living with them, or going to school, or seeing the police drive down the street. But I respected them, for who they were and what they each stood for.
Bullies were another matter. I feared getting beat up, for NO reason. I feared crossing their paths, because I knew they needed no reason for coming after me. But I had NO respect for them.
I feared the moonless night on my great uncle's Kentucky farm, because I didn't know what might be "out there" in the dark. Respect played no part of it, I was just scared of the unknown.
Cuba, as well as Russia, were a threat to our nation, and I feared destruction from their missiles. Our nations were at odds, and I had no control over what might happen, but knew that Dayton, my home town, was a target. And I had no respect for those countries.
It seems to me, that America is no longer feared, and barely respected. We used to be both. And I see it this way. One can be both feared, and respected. And I think America should be both.
We should be feared. Feared that if another country, or even any group of people, would try to do us harm, a world of hurt would come down upon them. Come down hard, fast, and survivability in extreme doubt. With that, we should use all degrees of force needed, plus one, to defeat those who would attack us.
As for respect? Respect, in that for all others in the world, we can be counted on for aid of all kinds, in times of natural calamities, and hostile threats. If you are not our enemy, then expect our friendship. In turn, we should respect the sovereignty and laws of other nations, and expect our laws to be respected when others visit us.
America leads the world in aid. Our military is almost always first on the scene for some nation in times of natural disaster. American taxpayers have provided untold billions in relief and support. Too much in some cases, as we've given money to countries who only betray us later, or betray their own people.
To the countries around the world, I would say this - If you need and want our help and friendship, we're here for you. But if you mean us harm, militarily or otherwise, then don't hold your hand out for anything other than a slap-down. If our aid, comes with conditions you don't like, then simply don't ask or take our help. There are other countries out there who might help, so talk to them. But the days of holding a hand out for help with one hand, while holding a gun to do us harm in the other, should be forever laid to rest. Pick one, but not both!
Our Pledge of Allegiance
The Pledge of Allegiance and the Flag, and what it means to me -
What do those things mean to you? What do they mean to those who come here, legally or not? I don't know those answers, but I can tell you what they mean to me.
Our Pledge of Allegiance is an interesting oath -
“I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.”
I see this oath, not one to take precedence over God, or a pledge to obey any "god", but as an oath to keep an allegiance to America over all other nations. "America" and the "Flag" represents ALL citizens of this great nation. It was never meant to me to be loyal to any one political party, President, or other entity. America - What a wonderful and beautiful word - is a word that, to me, stands for freedom. As too does the "Flag of The United State of America". And our Pledge of Allegiance is TO America.
As for the "under God" part... I've never felt that meant I must believe in "God", or that I must be a Christian follower, but is a simple acknowledgment that America was founded on the Christian beliefs of conduct toward our fellow man. There are many, many quotes from texts and letters of our Founding Fathers that prove this out. It is a FACT that one of the guiding forces behind their drive toward a new nation of freedom, was their Christian beliefs. And, at no time in modern history, has any man, woman, or child, been denied justice and/or freedom, because he or she wasn't a Christian or didn't believe in God, or was a follower of any other religion.
I pass my thoughts on - and forgive me for being so bold to do so and think you might value them - so that anyone, citizen, or wannabe citizen, might consider them. IF you choose to live here (excluding legal visitors), if you want to live here as a free citizen of The United States of America, as an American, then I suggest that you take an allegiance to America above ALL other countries. Otherwise, what ever country anyone wishes to hold some allegiance to, go there and live.
This IS America. The citizens of The United States of America have historically invited people from all over the world to come here and share in our freedoms and opportunities. But hear this, IF anyone's true allegiance is to ANY other country, don't come here, and if you are here already, don't stay. Forget politics. Forget foreign policy when it comes to my point here. Make those changes from within, as active and participating citizens. But to hold ANY allegiance to any other country, is UN-American, and such a person doesn't belong here.
As for flying the Flag - Untold hundreds of thousands of men and women fought, and died, for this country and the flag they fought under. Please, what ever your protest, don't burn our Flag or fly her upside down. Those who served before, those serving now, and those who will serve tomorrow, deserve to have the Flag of their country treated in a respectful way. Burn all the likenesses of elephants and donkeys you want, but not our Flag. Yes, a citizen would be free to do so. But having a "right" to do it, doesn't make it "right" thing to do. It isn't.
This is America, the United States of America. While I won't say, "Like it or leave it", I will say, "Pledge allegiance to the United States of America above all other nations, or leave it." There are things that may need changing. There may be things you don't agree with or don't like. I'm fine with that, so long as you get involved to help make it better. But if anyone holds ANY allegiance to another country over America, LEAVE NOW. If you want to be a free American citizen, then come on in and help us be better, and take the Pledge of Allegiance to The United States of America.
America. I hate the politics, but I love my country. Land of the free. Home of the brave.
What do those things mean to you? What do they mean to those who come here, legally or not? I don't know those answers, but I can tell you what they mean to me.
Our Pledge of Allegiance is an interesting oath -
“I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.”
I see this oath, not one to take precedence over God, or a pledge to obey any "god", but as an oath to keep an allegiance to America over all other nations. "America" and the "Flag" represents ALL citizens of this great nation. It was never meant to me to be loyal to any one political party, President, or other entity. America - What a wonderful and beautiful word - is a word that, to me, stands for freedom. As too does the "Flag of The United State of America". And our Pledge of Allegiance is TO America.
As for the "under God" part... I've never felt that meant I must believe in "God", or that I must be a Christian follower, but is a simple acknowledgment that America was founded on the Christian beliefs of conduct toward our fellow man. There are many, many quotes from texts and letters of our Founding Fathers that prove this out. It is a FACT that one of the guiding forces behind their drive toward a new nation of freedom, was their Christian beliefs. And, at no time in modern history, has any man, woman, or child, been denied justice and/or freedom, because he or she wasn't a Christian or didn't believe in God, or was a follower of any other religion.
I pass my thoughts on - and forgive me for being so bold to do so and think you might value them - so that anyone, citizen, or wannabe citizen, might consider them. IF you choose to live here (excluding legal visitors), if you want to live here as a free citizen of The United States of America, as an American, then I suggest that you take an allegiance to America above ALL other countries. Otherwise, what ever country anyone wishes to hold some allegiance to, go there and live.
This IS America. The citizens of The United States of America have historically invited people from all over the world to come here and share in our freedoms and opportunities. But hear this, IF anyone's true allegiance is to ANY other country, don't come here, and if you are here already, don't stay. Forget politics. Forget foreign policy when it comes to my point here. Make those changes from within, as active and participating citizens. But to hold ANY allegiance to any other country, is UN-American, and such a person doesn't belong here.
As for flying the Flag - Untold hundreds of thousands of men and women fought, and died, for this country and the flag they fought under. Please, what ever your protest, don't burn our Flag or fly her upside down. Those who served before, those serving now, and those who will serve tomorrow, deserve to have the Flag of their country treated in a respectful way. Burn all the likenesses of elephants and donkeys you want, but not our Flag. Yes, a citizen would be free to do so. But having a "right" to do it, doesn't make it "right" thing to do. It isn't.
This is America, the United States of America. While I won't say, "Like it or leave it", I will say, "Pledge allegiance to the United States of America above all other nations, or leave it." There are things that may need changing. There may be things you don't agree with or don't like. I'm fine with that, so long as you get involved to help make it better. But if anyone holds ANY allegiance to another country over America, LEAVE NOW. If you want to be a free American citizen, then come on in and help us be better, and take the Pledge of Allegiance to The United States of America.
America. I hate the politics, but I love my country. Land of the free. Home of the brave.
Immigration - One man's view
Jobs, the economy, and immigration. With some debate, I expect those are a few the top US issues of the day. But it seems that "immigration" may bring more heated debate than most the others. I know I have strong opinions on the subject, and some of those may surprise a few folks.
I'll say right here and now - I DO NOT blame those illegals who come to make for a better life for their families. If I were in their shoes, I'd do what ever I could to get my family away from any bad situation, be it in Mexico, Columbia, Iraq, China, or where ever I was. You wouldn't?
But, I would expect several things to apply to my situation, and this is where I feel we need to focus.
1. I would expect to find and use the legal avenues available to get into the country I chose to enter. I can't help my family if I'm dodging the authorities, or in jail.
2. I would want to assimilate into my new country, as soon as I could. That means learning the language and laws.
3. If my "homeland" was so bad that I had to leave, then I would also expect to re-align my allegiance to my new country. ("I pledge allegiance to the flag .....")
4. I would do all I could to pay my own way, and not be a new burden to my new country.
There is another element to the illegals that need addressed. And that is those who only wish to come in for seasonal work. I expect them to "use the door" too. That is, use the Ports Of Entry, provide identification, and be subjected to a criminal background check.
But for any of that to happen, legally, we DO need practical immigration change. We do NOT need an open border, or amnesty. Here is what I would propose -
A. Close the borders...TIGHT. (Bring some of military home from other world settings, to man the border.)
B. Streamline our alien entry to permit anyone to enter, with a temporary, and easily renewable, visa. Visas,
while easily renewable, can only be renewed after the foreign national returns to their own country for at
least 30 days. A criminal background checks would be done.
C. For seasonal workers, a worker visa would be issued with a shorter visa time period, and then, only with a sponsor employer, who also had to get a permit to employ such workers. (No permit? HEAVY fines!)
D. For those wishing to become US citizens, they must attend classes to help them assimilate into the
country, and MUST swear an allegiance to their new country.
E. Lastly, the issue of anchor babies, i.e. those born in the US when the parents are foreign nationals. I suggest a change in the law that would change this situation, and any baby being born in the US, who's parents are NOT US citizens, would NOT gain US citizenship.
Weather it's Ellis Island, or Douglass, Arizona, I expect those wishing to become American citizens to use the door. Not sneak in through the back door or window, like a thief in the night.
To those who would call those of us against ILLEGAL immigration "racists". Kiss my butt. Get it through your very thick head, that isn't about LEGAL immigration. It's all about ILLEGAL immigration. And it's time to FIX the problem.
I'll say right here and now - I DO NOT blame those illegals who come to make for a better life for their families. If I were in their shoes, I'd do what ever I could to get my family away from any bad situation, be it in Mexico, Columbia, Iraq, China, or where ever I was. You wouldn't?
But, I would expect several things to apply to my situation, and this is where I feel we need to focus.
1. I would expect to find and use the legal avenues available to get into the country I chose to enter. I can't help my family if I'm dodging the authorities, or in jail.
2. I would want to assimilate into my new country, as soon as I could. That means learning the language and laws.
3. If my "homeland" was so bad that I had to leave, then I would also expect to re-align my allegiance to my new country. ("I pledge allegiance to the flag .....")
4. I would do all I could to pay my own way, and not be a new burden to my new country.
There is another element to the illegals that need addressed. And that is those who only wish to come in for seasonal work. I expect them to "use the door" too. That is, use the Ports Of Entry, provide identification, and be subjected to a criminal background check.
But for any of that to happen, legally, we DO need practical immigration change. We do NOT need an open border, or amnesty. Here is what I would propose -
A. Close the borders...TIGHT. (Bring some of military home from other world settings, to man the border.)
B. Streamline our alien entry to permit anyone to enter, with a temporary, and easily renewable, visa. Visas,
while easily renewable, can only be renewed after the foreign national returns to their own country for at
least 30 days. A criminal background checks would be done.
C. For seasonal workers, a worker visa would be issued with a shorter visa time period, and then, only with a sponsor employer, who also had to get a permit to employ such workers. (No permit? HEAVY fines!)
D. For those wishing to become US citizens, they must attend classes to help them assimilate into the
country, and MUST swear an allegiance to their new country.
E. Lastly, the issue of anchor babies, i.e. those born in the US when the parents are foreign nationals. I suggest a change in the law that would change this situation, and any baby being born in the US, who's parents are NOT US citizens, would NOT gain US citizenship.
Weather it's Ellis Island, or Douglass, Arizona, I expect those wishing to become American citizens to use the door. Not sneak in through the back door or window, like a thief in the night.
To those who would call those of us against ILLEGAL immigration "racists". Kiss my butt. Get it through your very thick head, that isn't about LEGAL immigration. It's all about ILLEGAL immigration. And it's time to FIX the problem.
Friday, February 4, 2011
The Drug Violence at the Border
I'm just pissed off. And it isn't just about the Drug Violence south of the border, and that which is growing within our own border. (see past post from Wed., March 31, 2010)
What just pisses me off to no end, is this -
The Headlines should read, "Americans continued taste for cocaine and other illegal drugs, is paying for death and destruction."
We can read on any given day, the death of government officials, Mexican Police Officers, Mexican Military figures, Mexican Mayors, and such. We can read about the Americans, killed in ambushes on the roads, or even on a border lake. Most recently, a woman was murdered. She and her husband have been building churches and such in Mexico for nearly 30 years. They killed her for their truck. A truck they no doubt wanted to rig up to haul dope TO AMERICA!
I know ... I know ... "Just Say No" was just too laughable to many. But, the focus was not laughable. It was to have been, to get people to not only "just say no" to the dope themselves, but for ALL OF US to say NO to those who use! Friends, family, associates ... anyone we know in every day relationships of all kinds, where we either stand by while they use, or partake "a little" themselves ... ARE GUILTY of feeding the money grab by Mexican Drug Cartels.
FOLLOW THE MONEY (yes, I'm yelling!). About 80% of the dope from Mexico, is for the American drug habit. How shameful. The war south of the border is for MONEY. DRUG MONEY. And every ass-hole in America who buys, uses, sells the dope, contributes to the death and destruction in Mexico, and in America.
I know we can't expect everyone to turn in their friends and family. But we DO have influence on them. If nothing else, DO NOT stand by and be an enabler for their use and abuse. If they WILL NOT help themselves, then tough love them out of your life. Shun them. Point the finger of shame at them. Speak loudly to them, that what they are doing is wrong. And it ain't right at any Hollywood party, or poker game, or outside the some college dorm. It's wrong, and we need to openly and LOUDLY say it is. We need to quit condoning it, by our lack of shouting it down.
Lets also not forget, to use such drugs, is a FELONY. And, they CHOOSE to commit a felony to start with. (Who, besides career criminals, CHOOSE to commit felonies?) That first hit, snort, shot of what ever, is a CHOICE someone makes to commit a felony. That FIRST time, they CHOOSE. Sadly, I think we, as a nation, have let that slide and lost the focus on what that CHOICE really is. IT'S A STINKIN' FELONY!
Personally, I would fine the crap out of every one caught using. Sell, and go to jail. Sell again, and STAY in prison. It isn't JUST about the drugs, it's about contributing to terrorists, the drug cartels, and the murder they commit. Narco-terrorism is REAL. We now prosecute, understandably so, anyone contributing to International Terrorists, such as al-Qa'ida, will get one arrested and tried. Why shouldn't contributing to Drug Cartels, Narco-terrorists, draw the same consequences?
Finally, if it really IS a war on drugs, then it should be a WAR. If Mexico can't rid the ass-hole cartels out of Mexico, then if it were up to me, I'd activate Delta and every other Special Black Ops team, to hunt them down and kill them. They have become every bit an enemy to the USA, as any other terrorist organization.
Yep ... I'm pissed. And all I can do is write!
What just pisses me off to no end, is this -
The Headlines should read, "Americans continued taste for cocaine and other illegal drugs, is paying for death and destruction."
We can read on any given day, the death of government officials, Mexican Police Officers, Mexican Military figures, Mexican Mayors, and such. We can read about the Americans, killed in ambushes on the roads, or even on a border lake. Most recently, a woman was murdered. She and her husband have been building churches and such in Mexico for nearly 30 years. They killed her for their truck. A truck they no doubt wanted to rig up to haul dope TO AMERICA!
I know ... I know ... "Just Say No" was just too laughable to many. But, the focus was not laughable. It was to have been, to get people to not only "just say no" to the dope themselves, but for ALL OF US to say NO to those who use! Friends, family, associates ... anyone we know in every day relationships of all kinds, where we either stand by while they use, or partake "a little" themselves ... ARE GUILTY of feeding the money grab by Mexican Drug Cartels.
FOLLOW THE MONEY (yes, I'm yelling!). About 80% of the dope from Mexico, is for the American drug habit. How shameful. The war south of the border is for MONEY. DRUG MONEY. And every ass-hole in America who buys, uses, sells the dope, contributes to the death and destruction in Mexico, and in America.
I know we can't expect everyone to turn in their friends and family. But we DO have influence on them. If nothing else, DO NOT stand by and be an enabler for their use and abuse. If they WILL NOT help themselves, then tough love them out of your life. Shun them. Point the finger of shame at them. Speak loudly to them, that what they are doing is wrong. And it ain't right at any Hollywood party, or poker game, or outside the some college dorm. It's wrong, and we need to openly and LOUDLY say it is. We need to quit condoning it, by our lack of shouting it down.
Lets also not forget, to use such drugs, is a FELONY. And, they CHOOSE to commit a felony to start with. (Who, besides career criminals, CHOOSE to commit felonies?) That first hit, snort, shot of what ever, is a CHOICE someone makes to commit a felony. That FIRST time, they CHOOSE. Sadly, I think we, as a nation, have let that slide and lost the focus on what that CHOICE really is. IT'S A STINKIN' FELONY!
Personally, I would fine the crap out of every one caught using. Sell, and go to jail. Sell again, and STAY in prison. It isn't JUST about the drugs, it's about contributing to terrorists, the drug cartels, and the murder they commit. Narco-terrorism is REAL. We now prosecute, understandably so, anyone contributing to International Terrorists, such as al-Qa'ida, will get one arrested and tried. Why shouldn't contributing to Drug Cartels, Narco-terrorists, draw the same consequences?
Finally, if it really IS a war on drugs, then it should be a WAR. If Mexico can't rid the ass-hole cartels out of Mexico, then if it were up to me, I'd activate Delta and every other Special Black Ops team, to hunt them down and kill them. They have become every bit an enemy to the USA, as any other terrorist organization.
Yep ... I'm pissed. And all I can do is write!
Friday, January 14, 2011
Free speech..unless you don't agree
I find it humorous, that a liberal I know, has been heard saying that he wants FOX News taken off the air. There are those in Washington who also want that.
Don't like FOX News? Don't watch it! Oh ... I see, you don't like what they say and report? And you don't want people listening to them? So, because the that, and the size of their audience, you want them off the air.
It would seem to me, that part of that 1st amendment would also involve MY freedom to listen and read what I want. If that is true, then you want to restrict MY 1st amendment right. I think that is "censorship", isn't it?
I bet you are also upset that programs, such as the past radio program Air America (BTW - I never complained about that being on, and never called for it to be taken off the air.), got dropped from the radio airways. Gee ... could it be that their ratings ...the number of people who listened ... couldn't support the cost to produce and air such programs? Guess what people, that's the way it works in TV and Radio. If their isn't enough people watching or listening, their isn't enough rating points to support advertiser buys, and THAT is what pays for the airtime.
This liberal I know wants FOX News off the air. He wants ONLY those news outlets HE deems worthy of watching. Excuse me dickhead, but I think I'll make up my own mind. No censorship for me thanks. For those in Washington who want that same thing - IT'S ABOUT THE CONSTITUTION, and MY RIGHTS. (And they wonder why the Tea Party growing.)
Don't like FOX News? Don't watch it! Oh ... I see, you don't like what they say and report? And you don't want people listening to them? So, because the that, and the size of their audience, you want them off the air.
It would seem to me, that part of that 1st amendment would also involve MY freedom to listen and read what I want. If that is true, then you want to restrict MY 1st amendment right. I think that is "censorship", isn't it?
I bet you are also upset that programs, such as the past radio program Air America (BTW - I never complained about that being on, and never called for it to be taken off the air.), got dropped from the radio airways. Gee ... could it be that their ratings ...the number of people who listened ... couldn't support the cost to produce and air such programs? Guess what people, that's the way it works in TV and Radio. If their isn't enough people watching or listening, their isn't enough rating points to support advertiser buys, and THAT is what pays for the airtime.
This liberal I know wants FOX News off the air. He wants ONLY those news outlets HE deems worthy of watching. Excuse me dickhead, but I think I'll make up my own mind. No censorship for me thanks. For those in Washington who want that same thing - IT'S ABOUT THE CONSTITUTION, and MY RIGHTS. (And they wonder why the Tea Party growing.)
Saturday, January 8, 2011
Being a "Dad", re-post
First, I want to apologize if some think I am beating this horse too much, but in my job, I see so many very poor examples of bad fathers, I just need to write and vent.
I've written before about fatherhood (you can see that post on this blog). And let me say that I am NOT a perfect dad, and have made plenty of mistakes myself. But this isn't about being a perfect dad, it's about being the best you CAN be, and know that what you do, will have some kind of effect on your children.
I work in a capacity, where every day, I see bad examples of fathers (mostly, but not exclusively). I see every day, where fathers are skirting their responsibilities to their children. In some cases (too damn many), I see fathers, fathering multiple children, with multiple mothers. And they are not taking care of ANY of them! These are not even MEN. These are sperm donors on legs.
By the way...those "moms", bare a great deal of responsibility too! Wanting the love of a man, who makes babies with multiple women, is NOT the love women need.
But to those men...those sperm donors on legs...YOU are NOT "men". Making babies is NOT manly. Mice can do that! But to help bring a baby into the world, then caring for that child, nurturing that child, providing for that child, financially and emotionally, IS what real men do.
There isn't a class on fatherhood that most men can take. Most men, learn their fathering from their own fathers, or someone else who has been something of a father figure to them. And that means good, and bad, fathering. If a man has had bad fathering, Lord hope they've had good mothering to help make up for it. Otherwise, that new father, will likely fall back on the only example they had to follow.
All that said, there are those, who consciously recognize the bad fathering they had, and work to overcome those examples and work hard at being good father. To those men, I applaud you.
We ALL make mistakes. We can ALL do, or have done, better. I am right there. But with all my mistakes, I have tried to be a good father. I think I have been a good father, and love my children more each day. Mine are grown and off on their own life adventures, but I miss them every day. I have some regrets though. And it is that I didn't spend as much time with them as I could have. I can not get that back.
Women - If you're looking for a "man", make sure he is a REAL man. Don't go for some flash in the pan dude with a good line and moves that move you. Look at "the man", and how he treats his mother, what his own father is like and treats his wife, and if that dude has multiple women and children.
Men - If you think being a man is about bringing multiple kids into the world, with multiple women, and caring for none of them....then I have a deal for you! I am offering my services to help you have all the fun you want, and none of the long term responsibilities. .... Oh... My "services"? Castration. I have sharp knives and if you just can't help yourself because you have less control than a mouse, then I can arrange for a little cut here, and little tug there, and snip snip, and you're good to go!
REAL MEN - Stand up for your women and your children. Be counted, and be counted on. And enjoy that real gift of being a DAD! It the best title I've ever had!!
I've written before about fatherhood (you can see that post on this blog). And let me say that I am NOT a perfect dad, and have made plenty of mistakes myself. But this isn't about being a perfect dad, it's about being the best you CAN be, and know that what you do, will have some kind of effect on your children.
I work in a capacity, where every day, I see bad examples of fathers (mostly, but not exclusively). I see every day, where fathers are skirting their responsibilities to their children. In some cases (too damn many), I see fathers, fathering multiple children, with multiple mothers. And they are not taking care of ANY of them! These are not even MEN. These are sperm donors on legs.
By the way...those "moms", bare a great deal of responsibility too! Wanting the love of a man, who makes babies with multiple women, is NOT the love women need.
But to those men...those sperm donors on legs...YOU are NOT "men". Making babies is NOT manly. Mice can do that! But to help bring a baby into the world, then caring for that child, nurturing that child, providing for that child, financially and emotionally, IS what real men do.
There isn't a class on fatherhood that most men can take. Most men, learn their fathering from their own fathers, or someone else who has been something of a father figure to them. And that means good, and bad, fathering. If a man has had bad fathering, Lord hope they've had good mothering to help make up for it. Otherwise, that new father, will likely fall back on the only example they had to follow.
All that said, there are those, who consciously recognize the bad fathering they had, and work to overcome those examples and work hard at being good father. To those men, I applaud you.
We ALL make mistakes. We can ALL do, or have done, better. I am right there. But with all my mistakes, I have tried to be a good father. I think I have been a good father, and love my children more each day. Mine are grown and off on their own life adventures, but I miss them every day. I have some regrets though. And it is that I didn't spend as much time with them as I could have. I can not get that back.
Women - If you're looking for a "man", make sure he is a REAL man. Don't go for some flash in the pan dude with a good line and moves that move you. Look at "the man", and how he treats his mother, what his own father is like and treats his wife, and if that dude has multiple women and children.
Men - If you think being a man is about bringing multiple kids into the world, with multiple women, and caring for none of them....then I have a deal for you! I am offering my services to help you have all the fun you want, and none of the long term responsibilities. .... Oh... My "services"? Castration. I have sharp knives and if you just can't help yourself because you have less control than a mouse, then I can arrange for a little cut here, and little tug there, and snip snip, and you're good to go!
REAL MEN - Stand up for your women and your children. Be counted, and be counted on. And enjoy that real gift of being a DAD! It the best title I've ever had!!
Sunday, January 2, 2011
Officer Down, Code Three
Office Down ...Code Three - Words no Law Enforcement Officer (LEO) wants to hear come over the radio. Yet, in 2010, a staggering number of deaths occurred (162) in the ranks of those wearing the Badge, working to protect us here at home. While every death is sad, the last LEO death in 2010, and the first in 2011, were those of Arlington (TX) Police Officer, Jillian Michelle Smith, and Clark County (OH) Sheriff's Deputy Suzanne Waughtel Hopper, as specially heart breaking. Officer Smith on Dec. 29, 2010, and Deputy Hopper on Jan., 1st, 2011. Both killed by gunfire.
(Before I go further here, I will provide the following Disclaimer: I am a former Police Officer, having served as a patrol Deputy Sheriff, and as a small town Police Officer. I was no super-cop and no hero, and was just a regular Cop on the street. I do not profess to be an expert on the subject. I am only offering my own insight, and food for thought to anyone who reads this.)
Two things strike me with the two LEO deaths noted above -
1. The Arlington PD Officer, had responded to a call of a domestic dispute, that was believed to be "over", and she was there taking a report. While not a "routine call", most often, we think of these calls as one where the incident has ended, and the other party has left the area. In this case, while Police Officer Smith was obtaining the information from the Reporting Party (RP), the suspect returned and surprised the Officer, and opened fire on the Police Officer and the girlfriend. It should also be noted, that as the gunman opened fire on Police Officer Smith, Smith shielded an 11 year old girl who was also in the house.
But to my point - This LEO "thought" the incident was over. Everyone "thought" it was over. She was then going about collecting information, when killed by the assailant.
2. In the case of the Ohio LEO death (As of this writing, many of those circumstances are yet to be made public.), one report indicated that the Deputy was trying to take a photograph of a footprint. She wasn't "confronting a suspect", but rather investigating some incident that may have already occurred. The murderer ambushed Dep. Hopper while she was otherwise distracted. (How many times do LEOs get tunnel vision and miss a sign of impending danger? I sure as hell had, too many times!)
Again - This LEO "thought" the incident was over, at least for that moment, and she was "gathering evidence".
Our men and women in Uniform, wearing their respective Law Enforcement Badges, take a risk EVERY TIME they leave their homes and start their shifts. There isn't a "routine" call. And as we see from the past two LEO deaths, "incidents" aren't always over when they arrive to a call.
For those who have never served in such a capacity, let me ask - Have you ever thought some "Cop" was being a bit too "serious", when you've seen him approach you, or someone else, with their gun-hand at the ready? Have you watched, as LEO's were responding the "another false alarm" at some store or bank you know, and you thought they were being ridiculous? Have you seen and heard them being a bit "over the top", when they authoritatively order people to move back away from a scene or crowd? Ever think they were "badge heavy" arriving at a scene of some disturbance? Have you ever thought that their very life could be at risk, if the right set of circumstances such evolve?
Their training, experiences of other LEOs, or their own person experiences, have taught them that they can't take any circumstance, or person, for granted. Their very lives could be in jeopardy at ANY moment. A LEO must remain constantly vigilant to the "what ifs". Even sitting down in a restaurant to eat their meal, could be their last. Think I'm being over-dramatic? (I'm no longer carrying a badge, and I still try to sit with my back to the wall!) They know, all too well, that sometimes, THEY are the target of someone wanting to take a Cop's life. And that person, could be ANYBODY they meet. ANY BODY. Try living a "normal" life, acting carefree and casual, with that knowledge and experience. The trick in their line of work, is to be THAT vigilant, and not have YOU know it. TO remain "politically correct", while doing all they can to protect you, and themselves!
Next time you get "stopped" by a Police Officer or Deputy, just politely do what the Officer asks you to do. Don't try to be their friend, just be polite and follow their instructions. When approaching a stopped Police car, slow down and give them some space. Most the time, any contact by a LEO goes without incident. Most the time, how any such contact goes, is up to the citizen during contact with a LEO.
We've sure started 2011 off in the worse possible way. The families of those LEOs lost deserve our prayers and condolences. Those who serve us each day, deserve our thanks, our prayers, and our cooperation.
Lastly, try to remember this - Law Enforcement Officers are not paid for what they do. They are paid for what they might have to do. And honestly, it isn't near enough.
For what it's worth, from this ol' broken-down ex-Cop. - Dan
PS. To those who do wear the Badge, if you haven't read it, read the book by Pierce Brooks, Officer Down, Code Three. May you go home, every day.
(Before I go further here, I will provide the following Disclaimer: I am a former Police Officer, having served as a patrol Deputy Sheriff, and as a small town Police Officer. I was no super-cop and no hero, and was just a regular Cop on the street. I do not profess to be an expert on the subject. I am only offering my own insight, and food for thought to anyone who reads this.)
Two things strike me with the two LEO deaths noted above -
1. The Arlington PD Officer, had responded to a call of a domestic dispute, that was believed to be "over", and she was there taking a report. While not a "routine call", most often, we think of these calls as one where the incident has ended, and the other party has left the area. In this case, while Police Officer Smith was obtaining the information from the Reporting Party (RP), the suspect returned and surprised the Officer, and opened fire on the Police Officer and the girlfriend. It should also be noted, that as the gunman opened fire on Police Officer Smith, Smith shielded an 11 year old girl who was also in the house.
But to my point - This LEO "thought" the incident was over. Everyone "thought" it was over. She was then going about collecting information, when killed by the assailant.
2. In the case of the Ohio LEO death (As of this writing, many of those circumstances are yet to be made public.), one report indicated that the Deputy was trying to take a photograph of a footprint. She wasn't "confronting a suspect", but rather investigating some incident that may have already occurred. The murderer ambushed Dep. Hopper while she was otherwise distracted. (How many times do LEOs get tunnel vision and miss a sign of impending danger? I sure as hell had, too many times!)
Again - This LEO "thought" the incident was over, at least for that moment, and she was "gathering evidence".
Our men and women in Uniform, wearing their respective Law Enforcement Badges, take a risk EVERY TIME they leave their homes and start their shifts. There isn't a "routine" call. And as we see from the past two LEO deaths, "incidents" aren't always over when they arrive to a call.
For those who have never served in such a capacity, let me ask - Have you ever thought some "Cop" was being a bit too "serious", when you've seen him approach you, or someone else, with their gun-hand at the ready? Have you watched, as LEO's were responding the "another false alarm" at some store or bank you know, and you thought they were being ridiculous? Have you seen and heard them being a bit "over the top", when they authoritatively order people to move back away from a scene or crowd? Ever think they were "badge heavy" arriving at a scene of some disturbance? Have you ever thought that their very life could be at risk, if the right set of circumstances such evolve?
Their training, experiences of other LEOs, or their own person experiences, have taught them that they can't take any circumstance, or person, for granted. Their very lives could be in jeopardy at ANY moment. A LEO must remain constantly vigilant to the "what ifs". Even sitting down in a restaurant to eat their meal, could be their last. Think I'm being over-dramatic? (I'm no longer carrying a badge, and I still try to sit with my back to the wall!) They know, all too well, that sometimes, THEY are the target of someone wanting to take a Cop's life. And that person, could be ANYBODY they meet. ANY BODY. Try living a "normal" life, acting carefree and casual, with that knowledge and experience. The trick in their line of work, is to be THAT vigilant, and not have YOU know it. TO remain "politically correct", while doing all they can to protect you, and themselves!
Next time you get "stopped" by a Police Officer or Deputy, just politely do what the Officer asks you to do. Don't try to be their friend, just be polite and follow their instructions. When approaching a stopped Police car, slow down and give them some space. Most the time, any contact by a LEO goes without incident. Most the time, how any such contact goes, is up to the citizen during contact with a LEO.
We've sure started 2011 off in the worse possible way. The families of those LEOs lost deserve our prayers and condolences. Those who serve us each day, deserve our thanks, our prayers, and our cooperation.
Lastly, try to remember this - Law Enforcement Officers are not paid for what they do. They are paid for what they might have to do. And honestly, it isn't near enough.
For what it's worth, from this ol' broken-down ex-Cop. - Dan
PS. To those who do wear the Badge, if you haven't read it, read the book by Pierce Brooks, Officer Down, Code Three. May you go home, every day.
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