LETTERS: A response on free speech
What restaurant stopped distributing the Bulletin? We plan to not eat there.
Janis Allen
Montgomery County
LETTERS: The publisher speaks on free speech
Thanks for your support. I have received quite a bit of positive feedback on the subject.
I printed your letter because it was short and to the point. I could then print the following letters
from people who would like to practice their own freedom of speech.
To answer your question, members of the RLC have managed to now convince
two restaurants in the area to stop distributing The Bulletin. They use the same tactics they always use.
They threaten and intimidate people. The two restaurants they have intimidated into not distributing
The Bulletin are; Country Time BBQ and Willies. Both of these restaurants had distributed The Bulletin from
the time they opened. Eleven thousand two hundred and sixty six people had picked up The Bulletin
from these two locations. Because of a small group of people that have decided to determine what
your community standards are. They will be forced to practice freedom of speech elsewhere. The fact that
they only managed to bully two distribution centers out of over 500 is not relevant. The reality is that
they would like to outlaw any publication in the area that even tries to let other people express an opinion
that is in any way not to their liking. They are in fact attempting to force every citizen of this county to
see only what they would like to be seen. And to here only what they want to be heard. Scary isn't it? As
an example of how scary it can get, check out our theatre review this week.
Mike Ladyman
Publisher
LETTERS: An open letter to Martin Sheen
Please allow this message to serve as an open letter to actor Martin Sheen and the
members in his artist's anti war group. I am a veteran of the U.S. Navy. Mr. Sheen, your people are using the
anti-war issue to simply enhance past careers in Hollywood while you encourage protesters to put the
nation's safety in jeopardy. At least 2 of your actors are involved with groups under investigation by the FBI.
Mr. Sheen, I'm going to have you stand in shame for starring as our nation's
fantasy President on "The West Wing" while taking a very unpatriotic stance against your country in reality.
All recent President's that you more or less portray have sent our troops into battle. You are betraying
your own armed forces who have had the courage to provide our great nation with the freedom that it
enjoys today. Your shameful group of artists are a slap in the face to all of us veterans (the proudest and
bravest fraternity in the world). Mr. Sheen, stand in shame amidst our over 1.5 million dead military troops
who have sacrificed their lives so that you may exercise your freedom of speech as you bad mouth America.
In many countries, citizens do not share your same freedoms.
Mr. Sheen, I proudly served in the Persian Gulf War helping to enforce United
Nations (U.N.) resolutions against Iraq. We were involved with the search of Iraqi vessels at sea and served
in Kuwait City. I came to fondly admire the Kuwaiti people and their lifestyle. They are humble,
mild mannered, peaceful, and a decent group of people. Kuwait is nestled in the beautiful Middle Eastern
desert countryside which almost reminds one of Palm Springs, CA. The Kuwaiti people did not deserve to
be invaded by Iraq in 1990. The Iraqi soldiers came in and killed Kuwaitis, raped the Kuwaiti women,
and blew the town apart. It was a culture shock for me to see a very modern Kuwaiti community with
many buildings now destroyed by the harsh realities of an Iraqi invasion. It was also a boost to my pride to
see large graffiti signs reading "welcome George Bush and troops."
Mr. Sheen, if you legitimately are a peace loving American citizen (which you are not),
I challenge you and your group of shame to visit Kuwait and speak with the Kuwaiti people yourself.
First, ask them their opinion of Iraq and Saddam Hussein's criminal regime. I know you won't go
overseas because it is easier for you to stay in the comfortable safe confines of America and bad mouth our
country. Also, obtain the opinion of the Kuwaiti women who were raped by the Iraqi soldiers before you
"bravely" attempt to override the decisions of your country and government with your shameful group of
yesterday's actors. You are not a member of our proud military fraternity and friends, nor do you deserve to be.
Thus, the only way for you all to sell your face in Hollywood is to take the anti-war stance. How can you
teach your son about courage?
Mr. Sheen, you will go onto suggest that the Iraqis did not attack us? Neither did Osama bin Laden prior to September 11, 2001. Our past President spent a
considerable amount of time having an affair with Monica Lewinsky and then attempted to lie his way out of it (the real crime) at the expense of the union of our Presidency. All the while bin Laden was building momentum in Afghanistan which Clinton failed to act upon. Subsequently, you saw the devastating results of Clinton's poor decisions as the World Trade Center came tumbling down on 9/11.
Mr. Sheen, for the past 12 years after Iraq's attack on Kuwait, Saddam Hussein and Iraq have made a mockery out of the U.N. and the security council. If
we stand by and allow Hussein to lie and defy our authority, he's going to gain the same momentum in
the world that bin Laden did. With us not around in the region, he'll again attack Kuwait, Turkey, and
Israel and his criminal Muslim regime will keep spreading. The end result here will be that the U.S.
will eventually become a 3rd world country and the majority of us will be without vehicles much less
afford the $20 per gallon of gas.
While this won't effect your ability to gas up your limousines and heat up your
multiple mansions, the rest of the 99.9% of us will be stuck in poverty. Consequently, as a 3rd world country,
the criminal faction of the Muslims will destroy our country since we lack the resources to afford
national defense. I'll let you vision the rest of the story.
Mr. Sheen, I'm going to publicly denounce you and your Hollywood activists as one
of the great shames of our free nation and the entertainment industry. You are leading a movement that
will destroy our country and the lives and morale of the veterans of our great nation who endangered
and sacrificed their lives to purchase your freedom.
I yearn for the day when Hollywood returns to the patriotism our ancestors shared
some 60 years ago. My heroes are "my big brothers in combat arms." They are folks such as Clark Gable
and Elvis Presley who courageously defended our country even after becoming famous celebrities. My
heroes are people such as Jesse Ventura, Chuck Norris, and Montel Williams who are celebrities and veterans
of the armed forces. There are many, many more. My heroes are people such as honorary civilian
supporters that support our military and it's President. They include Steven Spielberg, Tom Cruise, Joan Jett,
Kidd Rock, Robin Williams, Martin Scorsese, Robert DeNiro, and again many, many more.
Mr. Sheen, while your group of shame tries to sell your movement on society
and subsequently ruin the images of us veterans so that you can build your own actor's character
in Hollywood- remember this and remember it well. We veterans will never, never forget you. That goes out
to you too Jane Fonda. We will never, never forget. Never!
Thank you,
J. Scott Davis
U.S. Navy (Ret.)
LETTERS: Blame the insurance companies
As your Bulletin article so ably shows there is a need for change in the health
care payment system. One option is a universal coverage handled through private insurance.
Those who say we can't afford it are simply not recognizing that, for the most part, we already
are. Insurance companies or taxpayer supported hospitals are paying for the uninsured through the
emergency room intake your article portrayed.
Once in operation every person is covered by a private insurer. Up to the age of 18 a
child is covered by both parent's insurers. At age 18 the child chooses one of the parent's insurers as the
child's insurer. That insurer must accept the child and provide lifetime coverage. When working the employer
and/or insured pay to the insurer a premium determined by a federal (or state) board. When unemployed
the inusred does not need to pay anything. The rate of payment is determined by actuarial statistics.
There would be a second level of reinsurers to help spread the risk of major payouts
- AIDS, cancer, etc - among the insurance companies. The federal government would be the insurer of
last resort.
Employer cannot mandate insurance companies for employees.
An insured is allowed to switch insurance companies if the company will accept
them. Once accepted the insured is covered by the company for life.
Minimum levels of coverage are specified by federal regulations.
The real challenge in this plan is in converting from today's system to the
universal system.
One of the real problems with today's insurance - health and otherwise - is the
distortion introduced by the insurance companies. The intent is no longer to cover a large population and spread
the risk. Instead the intent is to narrow the population and narrow the risk. In short, if you need insurance,
the insurance company doesn't want to cover you.
Rud Merriam
LETTERS: The end never justifies the means
The end never justifies the means. Middle East extremists approved of the killing
of innocent Americans to demonstrate to the world their disdain for western values and market-
economies. American extremists approve of the killing of innocent Iraqis to demonstrate to the world their
intolerance for rogue leaders. Killing and violence never solves conflict. All moral and ethical teachings
throughout civilization accept as true that a righteous end never justifies an immoral means. This war has nothing
to do with the self-defense of American soil. Sanctions have already crippled Iraq: perhaps this is why
Bush thinks it will be an `easy' war. However the world is watching and Arab nationals will remember.
Denise Reilly
The Woodlands, TX
LETTERS: Fundamental changes to the U.S. Military
As a candidate for the Office of the President of the United States of American in 2004,
I am concerned about the readiness of our military. The enclosed letter entitled, "Fundamental changes to
the U.S. Military," details the changes that I would make to the military when I am the Commander-in-Chief.
The United States Military is the finest military in the world because of the quality of
its personnel. Cracks have surfaced in the military that are eroding the readiness of our armed
forces. Fundamental changes to the U.S. Military are required in order to maintain our military readiness.
Changes need to be made to the entry process for military service. The current system
does not provide the military with enough accurate information to assign the best personnel to a particular
task. A military high school and a military college can provide the military with the needed information.
A military school system can be a requirement for all new recruits. This includes
enlisted personnel and officers. In the case of enlisted personnel, a new recruit will be required to pass a
minimum military high school program before they can enter active service. Recruits would be payed for the time
that they live on a base to attend the military high school.
A military high school will allow citizens who are self taught a chance to prove what
they can do in a controlled environment. Furthermore, this military high school will weed out citizens who
are high school graduates, but who may not know what the military needs a high school graduate to know.
A military college will accomplish this same task for officers.
The current command structure of the United States Military is corrupted by
College Graduates who do not know what their diploma says that they know. My personal experience at
Texas A&M University has me convinced of this. (A large number of officers in the military are from Texas
A&M and I personally know of people who graduated because of who they know and not what they know).
Immediate changes to the command structure of the military are required to correct this problem.
As President of the United States and, therefore, Commander-in-Chief, I will require all current officers,
from the Joint Chiefs of Staff to the greenest of lieutenants to prove that they know what their diplomas say
that they know. Officers who cannot prove that they know what their diploma says that they know will
be removed from command and staff positions until they can demonstrate that their memory has returned
to them.
As the Commander-in-Chief, I will also institute fundamental changes for all enlisted personnel. I
will direct the Joint Chiefs of Staff to find a way to ensure that all enlisted personnel have access to a
military attorney when they need advice about perceived problem. Enlisted personnel are to be fully informed
of their rights and responsibilities as a U.S. soldier.
Finally, soldiers in the U.S. military are trained to work as a team. This is how people survive in war. It
is what soldiers must do in the military. However, after military service, it is important that military
personnel are equipped for life after the service. To that end, I will propose an exit process for all military
personnel. This exit process will give all personnel who are leaving the service a readjustment period of a month
or so. This readjustment period will be used to provide all personnel with time to get reacquainted with
their family and loved ones. At the same time, all personnel can be retrained for civilian life. This can
include psychological counseling to make sure that military personnel do not take the instilled instinct to
kill back out on the streets.
The United States Military is the finest military in the world because of the quality of
its personnel. Cracks have surfaced in the military that are eroding our readiness.
Fundamental changes need to be made in order to maintain our military readiness. As Commander-in-Chief, I am prepared to make these changes.
Charles Henry Schoonover
2004 LP Presidential Candidate
LETTERS: Laurel and Hardy are alive in Conroe
I wanted to comment on the City of Conroe's police chief's position that the mayor and
the mayor's mouth piece (Craig Lanon, aka Little Nepoleon) has taken so personal.
One day last week I over heard a conversation at the Kettle restaurant in Conroe,
Texas. Someone asked the mayor "don't you represent the people of Conroe"? The mayors answer to
that question was " I do what I want to do, not what someone tells me to do".
You know, I think I just figured out what the problem is, we have a dictator running
the City of Conroe and he's got Little Nepoleon as his lieutenant.
If you think about it, they make a beautiful couple, kind of Laurel and Hardy act.
The only problem with the mayor's and Little Nepoleon's ego is the people of Conroe and the
police department are the ones who are getting short changed.
My final comment is, thank God for Term Limitations and contracts that won't be renewed.
See you later Mr. Mayor, on your way out, don't forget to take Hardy with you.
Roger Baird
Conroe, TX
LETTERS: Musical support
Hi Mark, On behalf of the Charlie Parker Band, thank you for the write-up in the
Bulletin and for your presence at the recent Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo.
We included a link to the Bulletin on our website and a photo of you and Sharon at
this event. Please visit the website at: www.charlieparkerband.com
Look on the right side where it says previous shows/venues and click Page 1 of photos.
Thank you again for your support!
Kerrie Cassem
Promotional Director
Charlie Parker Band
LETTERS: Gov. Perry Putting Cows First
At a time when his administration is proposing draconian cuts in health care
for children and the elderly, Gov. Rick Perry proposed spending $10 million out of the general
revenue fund to study the genetic makeup of a cow. The Governor's plan was revealed in a story by
the Austin American Statesman last week.
Rick Perry said that solving the budget crisis was about setting priorities. Apparently
spending $10 million to study the DNA of a cow is a higher priority for this governor than
educating children, getting our kids health insurance, and caring for our seniors who are in nursing home.
The Perry Administration has proposed budget cuts that would leave 25,000
seniors without nursing home care and 650,000 children without health insurance. Perry is also
supporting a House Bill to destroy the state school finance system without an alternative which would take
$2.5 billion out of the state education system.
It's simply ludicrous to sacrifice the needs of thousands of Texans, but still create
the perfect cow.
The $10 million Perry wants to use to study cow genes would be put to better
use educating schoolchildren, ensuring health insurance for Texas children and teachers, and caring
for our elderly.
Perry's $10 million sacred cow would pay for health insurance for over
7,000 children in the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP), prescription drug coverage
nearly 1,000 senior citizens, health insurance for over 2,700 Texas teachers, or the education of 1,800
Texas schoolchildren. It's time to put Perry's sacred cow out to pasture and focus on the real
priority: protecting the needs of average Texans during these difficult times.
Figures:
*Avg. cost per child in CHIP for '04 = $1,380. 10,000,000/1,380=7,246
*Avg. cost of prescription drugs per senior for '04=10,335. 10,000,000/10,335=967
*Avg. premium per month per teacher=$308. 10,000,000/3,696=2,705
*Avg. cost per student=$5,500. 10,000,000/5,500=1,818
About 25,000 nursing home residents would no longer have their bills paid by Medicaid" (San Antonio Express News, 3.4.2003)
Hawkins estimated…it would cut 250,000 children out of CHIP and about
400,000 children from Medicaid" (Houston Chronicle, 3.4.2003)
Where do you find the money to replace the $2.5 billion that would be lost?"
(Austin American-Statesman, 2.20.2003)
Molly Beth Malcolm
Texas Democratic Party Chairwoman
LETTERS: A call to action
A call to action from Kent Snyder with the Liberty Committee
If action is taken without the authority of the Security Council the legitimacy
and support for any such action would be seriously impaired," U.N. Secretary General Kofi Annan
said today.
Authority of the United Nations Security Council?! When did the United
Nations become the world's supreme government? When did Americans (military and civilian) pledge their
allegiance to the flag of the United Nations, instead of the United States?
When did Americans (military and civilian) swear to uphold the Charter of
the United Nations and denounce the Constitution of the United States?
Stay in or get out? We say get out.
"'I think the United Nations is dangerous to our republic and therefore we out not
to participate,' said Rep. Ron Paul, Texas Republican."
"'I see the United Nations as having very little value to us for our interests,'
Mr. Armey [former House Majority Leader] said."
"'What I [Rep. Jack Kingston, Georgia Republican] don't like about the United
Nations is that while the average taxpayer is out there working hard, the U.N. people are out
there enjoying American tax dollars and just nibbling away at American freedom.'"
Quotations from "Conservative voice misgivings over U.N. membership"
The Washington Times, March 10, 2003 http://www.washtimes.com/national/20030309-14010780.htm
H.R. 1146 - The American Sovereignty Restoration Act of 2003 was introduced
for the
108th Congress by Congressman Ron Paul, the founder of The Liberty Committee. H.R. 1146
ends membership of the United States in the United Nations.
Why get out of the U.N.? Consider:
1. The Charter of the United Nations is illegitimate, having never been
lawfully ratified.
2. The Charter of the United Nations unlawfully transfers to the United
Nations congressional and presidential war powers.
3. The United Nations General Assembly has no lawful power to require the
United States to pay dues to the United Nations.
4. The Charter of the United Nations unconstitutionally usurps power reserved to
the states by the Tenth Amendment.
5. H.R. 1146 is the only viable solution to the continued abuses of the United Nations.
Analysis of H.R. 1146 by Herbert W. Titus
http://www.thelibertycommittee.org/hr1146start.htm
H.R. 1146 ended the 107th Congress with 40 cosponsors. We need to remind
those 40 U.S. representatives to again cosponsor H.R. 1146 in the 108th Congress as well as get first-time
cosponsors.
The United States or the United Nations? We must decide or someone will
decide for us.
Urge your representative to cosponsor H.R. 1146.
Go to http://www.capwiz.com/liberty/issues/bills/?bill=1630511
To make a donation, go to
http://www.thelibertycommittee.org/donate.htm
Kent Snyder
The Liberty Committee
http://www.thelibertycommittee.org
LETTERS: Position on war
FYI. Once war is declared, the position of any American Legion Post is to
cease criticism and debate and unite as one solid body to follow the orders of our
Commander-in-Chief... regardless of who is president.
Frank J. Canfield
Past Chaplain, Post #305
The Woodlands, TX
LETTERS: Don't listen to us...
Got a huge kick out of this article. ("Bush sets up a focus group," Issue 8)
My only after thought is this:
Why should Bush listen to the anti-war protestors, focus groups, and the
American people.
After all, the Majority of the American people DID NOT vote for him..
Kelly Serna
LETTERS: The Saddam Hussein Address
Threescore and seven years ago, his father brought forth upon this planet a
new abomination, conceived in insanity, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are
cremated equal.
Now we are enraged with his great "Mother" war, testing whether that
abomination or any abomination so conceited and so dedicated, is full of manure. We will meet there on a
great battle-field for this war. He is set to decimate a portion of the Holy Lands as the final resting
place of those who there gave their lives so that his insanity might live. It is altogether fitting, and
proper that we should not be remiss.
But in a larger sense, we can not dedicate-we can not consecrate, that
hallowed ground. The brave men, living and dead, who have struggled there, have consecrated it far
above his poor power to defend or attack. The world should sign a note, and remember what he tried
to do here, but hopefully forget that he was ever here. It is for us, the living, to be burdened by
his unfinished work that he thus far has so idiotically advanced. It is rather for us to be here
dedicated to the great tanks remaining before us-and that with humongous amounts of lead and
incensed emotion at his gall, we give him his last full measure of commotion.
That we here should highly resolve that he shall be fried on the plain; that his
abomination, under sod, shall have complete loss of freedom, and that government of the despot, by
the despot, for the despot, shall perish in an urn.
Jim Runge
Eldorado, Texas
LETTERS: You can distribute at my place anytime
I was reading the back of the Bulletin to find that many people are giving you
trouble on your distribution. I am a small business owner in Porter, Texas and I would love to distribute
your paper at my location. I always have to drive into Conroe to pick one up. I know a lot of people
in the Porter, Kingwood area that would love to be able to receive your publication without having
to drive so far to get it. If it is a possibility to have it distributed from my business please let me know.
Sincerely,
Robin R Redel
ABC Wireless
Porter, TX
LETTERS: Trying to locate...
I am hoping you can be of some help and publish my letter. I am looking for
my father who lives in the Houston area. His name is Harold Charles Gordon. He was born May
31st, I'm not sure of the exact year. He is between the ages of 57-59 years old. I don't really know
too much about him other then the fact that he does or may no longer play guitar, and sings in
bands. Any information anyone can give me would be greatly appreciated. You can send me an
email regarding information to babs2602@hotmail.com
Thank You
Helen Gordon
LETTERS: Thanks for your support
Hi Mark, On behalf of the Charlie Parker Band, thank you for the write-up in
the Bulletin and for your presence at the recent Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo.
We included a link to the Bulletin on our website and a photo of you and Sharon at
this event. Please visit the website at: www.charlieparkerband.com
Look on the right side where it says previous shows/venues and click Page 1 of photos.
Thank you again for your support!
Kerrie Cassem
LETTERS: Anti-War = Anti-American
Kelly, here's a little educational lesson for you. You state the majority of the
American people did not vote for him (Bush); were you aware that the majority of the American
people did not vote, period? And Kelly, read up on the "electoral college." It's amazing sometimes
how much we can learn simply by reading and understanding the facts. The anti-war protesters
are basically anti-Bush, and anti-American. (In reference to Letters to the Editor, The Bulletin,
Issue 11.)
Buck Buckner
Montgomery, Texas
LETTERS: Anti-War DOES NOT = Anti-American
There is a disturbing movement in this country, doubtless born of an anger and
fear that all of us have felt of late. For a nation that places the premium on freedom that we do, it is
both unworthy and wholly unacceptable.
It is a mania, reminiscent of 1950s mass hysteria, to quell all criticism or
even questioning of the Bush Administration's inexplicable passion for war with Iraq
right-now-no-matter-what by labeling all those who presume to do so as "unpatriotic" or
"anti-American." Whether this criticism comes from home or abroad, the patriotism police are out in force,
characterizing all who would exercise our precious right of freedom of speech in this regard as
"dangerous subversives."
It's not true, of course. On some level, all of us who got through so much as a
high school civics class know that. As free Americans, it's our duty, as well as our right, to question
the actions of our government. We aren't now, and never were, a nation of sheep, blinding adhering
to whatever path the flawed human being who happens to occupy the White House at any given
time wants to follow. Especially when that path is as suspect as is this impending, and apparently
inevitable, war with Iraq.
For one thing, it's not really a war, at least not until we make it one. We are not
under attack from Iraq, and by attacking them we're not protecting our soil, citizens or critical
interests. Unless you count the oil the Iraqis produce, which isn't ours to start with. At least not until we
depose their leader, occupy their land, and take it from them at gunpoint. Which, make no mistake
about it (to borrow a tired old Bush phrase) is precisely what we're going to do. Commentators far
wiser than I have aptly characterized this scenario as "Pearl Harbor in reverse."
Trying to put one's arms around Bush's argument for why the need to go to
war against Iraq is so compelling and so immediate is truly like trying to hit a moving target. And
why Iraq, anyway? There is no evidence they have a nuclear capacity, like Iran and North Korea,
who are watching events unfold and becoming more and more hostile to the United States
everyday. We've just figured out that Iran is much further along in their nuclear development than
we previously thought. North Korea continues to unabashedly test its nukes and recently
intercepted one of our planes. Why not attack one or both of them?
No, the target is Iraq. So it must be the so-called "weapons of mass destruction,"
the ones Bush continually works into every public communication, over which the United Nations
is overseeing destruction. But there's no evidence that the remainder of them, if indeed they
even exist, constitute a clear and present danger to us justifying the commitment of hundreds of
thousands of American lives and billions of dollars, as well as the virtual destruction of Iraq and
its people.
Faced with this argument, Bush simply ups the ante, opining that Saddam Hussein
is an inhumane tyrant and must be deposed, in order to "liberate" Iraq.
Actually, I doubt the people of Iraq could endure much more American-led liberation.
The last Gulf War resulted in an estimated 100,000 to 200,000 Iraqi combat deaths, and an additional
half million children under the age of 5 who (per UNICEF) perished from uranium-exposure
cancer or lack of vaccines and other medicines or treatments cut off by American sanctions. Indeed,
the United Nations estimates this new war with Iraq could result in the deaths of an additional one
million Iraqi children.
And, again, why Iraq? State sponsored murder, torture and mutilation take place
all over the world. We know all about it, have detailed intelligence on it, and yet we do
absolutely nothing in response. It's been a way of life in China, and parts of Africa, for longer than any of
us has been alive. We don't lift a finger to stop "ethnic cleansing" in the Balkans. In North Korea,
Kim Jong II starves his own people while living a highly publicized life of wretched excess. In
Saudi Arabia recently, several little girls burned to death in their school when the religious police
prevented them from escaping the fire because they didn't have their faces covered. Meanwhile,
the Saudi royal family (whose regime, along with Kim's in North Korea, are consistently rated
more inhumane than that of Iraq by international human rights organizations) enjoys lavish vacations
in the most expensive Western resorts in the world. In Jordan, women who commit adultery (or
whose husbands say they do) are beheaded. The Israelis kill Palestinians and destroy their property in
the West Bank and Gaza Strip as a matter of policy, and Palestinians send their children to blow
up themselves and as many Israelis as they can take with them. Why not start a war with any or
all of these groups?
Bush's next argument, which is perhaps the weakest, is that Iraq supports
Al-Qaida. But the fact is there's no evidence of that, either. So this imminent Iraqi war is not really part of
the War on Terrorism. On the other hand, Saudi Arabian money has done just that. As have
other governments the Bush administration has not the slightest inclination to attack.
So, really, why Iraq? Because of their oil, and their optimal geographic position
in the Middle East? Because this president wants to please or revenge his father, whom
Saddam attempted to assassinate and whose political career even the patriotism feeding frenzy attendant
to the first Gulf War couldn't save? Or just because a war is needed to deflect attention away
from ill-advised and ill-considered fiscal policies, and a generally decimated economy? Perhaps it's
to make you forget, for just a bit, that we've not found Osama bin Laden and haven't dismantled
Al Qaida, all cowboy rhetoric to the contrary. Given the lack of a consistent or credible answer to
that question, it's hardly surprising that our present course appears arbitrary and capricious in the
eyes of so many in our own country and the rest of the world.
War, though, can have globally catastrophic consequences far beyond the
strategic borders of Iraq. It should never even be remotely considered absent the most compelling
and immediate issues of national security. Because it can result in the end of the world. This is
something the United Nations' Security Council understands all too well.
In addition, although Bush claims to be launching this attack to protect
American lives, the effect may be exactly the opposite, and not just on the battlefield. That is, he may
be putting our citizens directly in harm's way. People who are attacked by foreign powers tend to
fight back, after all, however and wherever they can. It's certainly what we'd do in response.
I was in a grocery store on Saturday, and I heard a woman in the next check out
line loudly proselytizing to no one in particular, maybe to the poor checker, on the "justness" of this war.
President Bush is not a liar or a cheat, she urged. He wants war, and he must know best. In fact,
the government must know something they're not telling us. When the staunchest, or at least the
loudest, supporter of the Iraqi aggression has to rely on "the government must know something they're
not telling us" to be supportive of Mr. Bush's war, then it's time to reign in the rage and look
rationally, and squarely, at its justness, or lack thereof.
Fortunately, even in the post 9/11 world (and at least for now), the odds on
any particular American falling victim to an act of terrorism on our own soil are extremely long.
So, as we sit in our comfortable, climate controlled homes, which are fully stocked with food
and medicine, we as free Americans have what are sometimes referred to as "differentiated
responsibilities." Meaning we have an obligation to go a little deeper on this issue than feeling pleased
with ourselves that we have satisfied our debt to this great country and the world community by
boycotting French wines and the Dixie Chicks. We need to carefully evaluate whether, as a matter
of conscience, we really can support an aggression that will cost an untold number of American
lives as well as the lives of possibly millions of Iraqis. And God knows what the ultimate cost will be
when the world weighs in. We might also give some consideration to the trillion dollar deficit that
will undoubtedly result, and, according to the Secretary of the Army, the hundreds of thousands
of American troops that will have to remain behind for the occupation.
On February 15th, approximately 10 million people on all continents took to
the streets to protest the American war on Iraq. Perhaps the thought should also cross our minds
that maybe, just maybe, so much of the rest of the world may not be wrong after all.
And then, if we come to that conclusion, unsettling as it may be, we must speak,
and make sure we are heard. The freedom to question and criticize our government is
fundamentally American, and no one can take it from us. "My country right or wrong," on the other hand, is
un-American, to the extent it seeks to invalidate the rights of good, patriotic Americans to oppose a
war they find to be unjustified, dangerous and morally repugnant. Moreover, this nation was
built, perhaps above all else, on rejection of Imperialism. It is, one might say, the rock upon which
we built our church. Now is the time, for those who perceive that Imperialism is indeed at the heart
of the Bush war on Iraq, to take the strong, and the patriotic, course. Shame on anyone who tries to
deny them that right, or intimidate them out of screaming it from the rooftops.
Nancy McCoy
Montgomery County
LETTERS: (Am I) Living on Toxic Waste?
I read an article in the Bulletin of the Conroe paper (Living on Toxic Waste, Issue
10, March 7-14, 2003.) I am wondering how far up on Delores Street the toxic waste is affecting? I
live at 109 Delores St. #C. We have been there for at least 3 1/2 years. I would just like to see if I
could get some more information.
My 6 year old daughter has got some bumps on her arms and on her legs. She
did not have them before we moved to Delores Street. If there is any other information that you
could give me I would appreciate it. Thanks.
Tianna Hawkins
Conroe, TX
(The Bulletin forwarded Ms. Hawkins query to Eric "Bulldog" Yollick)
LETTERS: And a Response
Dear Mr. Ladyman:
I was provided a letter from Ms. Tianna Hawkins. As you may be aware, I am
the Administrator of the Estate of Herbert Clinton Sisco which owns the real property two houses
down from Ms. Hawkins.
Since I am not a medical doctor, I am unable to respond to Ms. Hawkins
specific concerns. As Ms. Hawkins' neighbor, however, I hope that Ms. Hawkins will take her child to
her physician as soon as possible and bring to her physician's attention the fact that they live near
the site where there was a creosote factory and near some properties where there is presently
contamination of the following chemicals of concern: pentachlorophenol, polycyclic aromatic
hydrocarbons (both carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic), and possibly chromium, arsenic, and lead.
If Ms. Hawkins has any questions with respect to our soil test results, she
should contact my office in The Woodlands where we will make those soil test results available to her.
I cannot provide Ms. Hawkins with legal advice. If Ms. Hawkins has legal
concerns, however, she should consult an attorney.
Sincerely,
Eric "Bulldog" Yollick
Dependent Administrator and Personal Representative
Estate of Herbert Clinton Sisco
LETTERS: Martin Sheen Stands up!!!
This goes out to J. Scott Davis retired US Navy:
First of all, I have more respect for our troops who so bravely and selflessly
serve our fair country. I also feel terrible for the families and friends of the victims of September
11th. But this is not about the world trade centers or the Gulf war, this is about you attacking the very
thing you claim to so avidly defend...FREEDOM. Freedom of speech, freedom of religion, freedom
of press, freedom to protest. I think America is in the worst state it has been in since the 30's. Our
stock market is in complete shambles, there is an overwhelming number of people who are
jobless, homeless, and most importantly penniless. You talk about what could happen because of people
like me, you talk about the US becoming third world. When is the last time you took a drive
through Dugan, or the 5th Ward in Houston. There are more places like this in America than you seem
to realize, and all the while you are so intent on joining that tyrannical madman George W. Bush
and running off to kill Saddam. Do you not understand that there are places in America that are just
as bad as third world countries. But those people are still happy to live in America because they
have the right to stand up and scream from the nearest rooftop " GEORGE BUSH, YOU ARE
WRONG" and they don't have to worry about persecution for doing so. We have so many problems at
home, but our president who you so willingly defend seems to care nothing about it. You my friend
are wrong, and if you truly believe that George is doing the right thing by putting our men and
women in danger by attacking Iraq, you are also a bad human being. I can't even fathom how
someone could really be so close minded about such a multi sided issue. Yes, Saddam is a crazy asshole,
but he is not stupid. He has publicly said that he has no intention of attacking the US. He doesn't
want us to attack him, he knows we will be victorious. I'm sure he has connections with terrorists, he
has also publicly stated that he hates the United States. But we have no reason to launch a
full-scale military war on him. With our modern technology we could very easily send a small group in
and remove him from power, which I would be all for, but war is not the answer in this situation.
Lastly I must correct your grossly wrong facts. Bill Clinton did have an affair and he did lie about it.
But his being a bad husband had nothing to do with his ability to govern our country. While Clinton
was in office we stopped many possible attacks. One of his main targets was Osama
Bin Laden...remember the controversy we missed and hit innocent civilians. Republicans
scrutinized him for launching. Also Iraq has NEVER directly attacked the United States, and to say this was
the first attack by Bin laden.... Come on Mr. Navy remember the USS Cole!!!!! Remember
the American Embassy in Africa!!!! I will listen to anyone's opinion and respect it to be their own,
but if you are going to spout off facts you obviously know nothing about then please don't waste my
time anymore.
Martin Sheen Fan
Conroe, TX
LETTERS: Health Care
I read this article, Health Care Twisting Out Of Control (Issue 9, February
28-March 6,2003), it is very disturbing that a person can go to the emergency room and get care but the
local family physician won't HELP ANYONE WITHOUT FUNDING , they could show
compassion.....
Over a year ago I volunteered for hospice care of patients in last stages of life.
I personally had a family member who was in the hospice care and they abused her and
others. Abused because they didn't like the money they made or the hours they worked … the
patients seemed to feel me coming in to take care of them, a sense that few people will know in this life time...
I will tell you that the cost of this abuse is permanent by the hands of the
Almighty God. And withholding medical care is cruel and inhumane. The war we are facing is mild
compared to God's rage over this kind of treatment .
Most people don't have insurance, and it is not getting any better. Most don't
qualify for medical help without paying so the alternative is impending death one way or the other. They starve trying to pay for medication so they can live longer in comfort. I can tell you no one
deserves this kind of abuse . Our elders are the backbone of the community, if it was your mom , sister,
brother or child . Would you be so quick to let them suffer..? How about God. Do you know him when
you see him? Think about it.
Thank you for your time. Sincerely,
nquinn
Bulletin Online Reader
LETTERS: True Agenda
State Representative Debbie Riddle, a Houston Republican, came under fire
this week for suggesting that our state's commitment to providing all Texas children with a
quality education is a concept from communist Russia, or, to use her words, "straight out of the pit of hell."
Specifically, The El Paso Times reported that after a hearing of the House
Border Affairs Committee, of which she is a member, Rep. Riddle said: "Where did this idea come
from that everybody deserves free education, free medical care, free whatever? It comes from
Moscow, from Russia. It comes straight out of the pit of hell."
While Rep. Riddle's comments are outrageous, they also reveal the
Republican's true agenda in Texas. Rep. Riddle's comments amount to more than an individual politician
foolishly showcasing her ignorance. Unfortunately they are an accurate portrayal of the approach
that many Republicans bring to the budget crisis facing Texas.
Republicans proposed abolishing the state's public school finance system. Their
plan would cut state funding for 9 out of every 10 Texas school children without any alternative
method to replace it.
Republicans have proposed a voucher program that would divert taxpayer
dollars to private schools and drain money out of public schools.
Republicans are contemplating slashing a program that provides low-cost
health insurance to half a million children from working families. The Republican cuts would
leave 250,000 children out of the Children's Health Insurance Program. Furthermore, Texas will
forfeit $1 billion in federal funds from Washington, DC if the Republicans have their way.
Republicans have proposed cutting treatment for the mentally ill and mentally retarded. The
$287.5 million cut will result in the closing of state hospitals, hundreds of layoffs, and thousands of
Texans going without mental health treatment.
Republicans have proposed increasing tuition at our state colleges and
universities. What Republican leaders are calling "tuition deregulation" would result in middle class
families being unable to afford college education for their children.
Republicans have proposed kicking 25,000 of our senior citizens out of nursing
homes. Hundreds of thousands of elderly or disabled people who live at home would lose their
medication as well.
One Republican even suggested eliminating the 12th grade in order to balance
the budget!
Democrats want to balance the budget but we oppose balancing the budget on
the backs of children, the elderly and working families.
Republicans appear willing to put cuts ahead of people.
Rep. Riddle may sound like an extremist, but her views reflect the proposals of
many Republican legislators. What makes the Republican cuts so alarming is that there are
enough Republicans like Rep. Riddle in the House and Senate to pass these types of draconian cuts.
There's a reason Republicans haven't controlled the legislature for 130 years.
Perhaps after the Republican Cuts are enacted, the voters of Texas will decide they shouldn't
control it for another 130 years.
Molly Beth Malcolm
Texas Democratic Party Chairwoman
LETTERS: Dover Drive Exposure
Hi Mark, My name is Dana Fossmo and I am the proud father of Leif and
Erik Fossmo ( Dover Drive)!
Thanks for the great article! They are having a great time with the band and it
will really help to have some ink. We have already gotten some calls of people that read the article.
Thanks for giving them some exposure! We think they are pretty good and we
want them to live their dream as long as they can!!
Thanks again,
Dana Fossmo
Conroe, TX
