The Impudent Observer

HEADLINES FROM WORLD PRESS

Fred Stopsky — Wed, 19 Jun 2013 06:03:43 +0000

We offer samples of headlines that appeared in the world press along with our comments.

USA, Army Times: ”Defense Bill Reduces Generals”

There goes a lot of egos.

New Zealand, New Zealand Herald: ”Stop Selling Highs”

I guess you want to take the low road.

Russia, Moscow Times: “Blasphemy Bill”

Now, that is what we really term, blasphemy

Sweden, The Local: ”Bacteria Riot In Sweden”

And, there are plenty more ready to riot.

France, Connexion: ”Burglar Caught By Earprint”

Quit laying down on the job.

USA, aol: ”National Standards Cancelled”

Teachers get a chance to teach.

Netherlands, Dutch News: ”Restaurants Lose Name”

Just call them, clip joints.

Shake Hand With Devil?

Fred Stopsky — Wed, 19 Jun 2013 06:03:12 +0000

I frequently wonder how we Earth folk would explain our customs to a visitor from another planet. Some on this planet claim that God wants females to cover their head because He is upset at naked haired females. Some males want head covered and others don’t give a damn. Then, there are males who insist God demands that females have head covered but he doesn’t care if males do. I once worked at a college in which Orthodox Jewish females and fundamentalist Muslim females did not want a male to shake their hand, but it was OK if males shook my hand.

A recent case in Sweden resulted in a male seeking a position to be turned down because he refused to shake the hand of a female boss. He did win damages from the Swedish Equality Ombundsman. Oh, the Muslim male insisted that he could not shake the female’s hand unless he immediately washed his hands.

Oh well, I guess God will get a night’s sleep knowing there are folks down on Earth who do not cover their heads when showering or going to bed.

Now, you know why aliens do NOT come to planet Earth!

Let’s Talk With With The Devil

Fred Stopsky — Wed, 19 Jun 2013 06:02:44 +0000

All wars go on and on until at some point either side or both sides agree to sit down and engage in some form of dialogue. American officials in Qatar have reached an agreement with Taliban officials to have discussions without prior agreements about anything. Initially, there will be a “peace and reconciliation” discussions to be followed with long range talks between the Taliban and members of the Afghan government. The US no longer demands the Taliban denounce a-Qaida as a first step on the road to peace. As one senior US official noted, “we have long said this conflict won’t be won on the battlefield.”

I wonder if anyone checked with John McCain or Fox News. It would be important to receive support from Sarah Palin, our most prominent authority on Middle Eastern affairs. Some days she just gazes out her front window and reviews events in Iraq. At least the Taliban is ready to “jaw, jaw”in stead of
“war, war.”

“No One Pushes HIM Around!!”

Fred Stopsky — Wed, 19 Jun 2013 06:02:22 +0000

Recep Tayyip Erdogan is a very important man and anyone who desires to enjoy a free life in Turkey should heed his words of wisdom. The Man is getting tired of people in the streets of HIS country going around insisting they have rights as to wha happens in His city. Recep thinks it is time to quit fooling around and get serious about law and order. “From now on, our police will not overlook any lawlessness.” He wants those protesting to know the time to be open to new ideas is over and they will obey his every wish and demand. As far as he is concerned, use of tear gas is the “inherent right” of the police.

Recep understands that a “foriegn conspiracy” exists and he will not allow a group of Zionid foreigners to tell decent Muslim folk what to think or believe. The prime minister also made clear to opposition political members that he keeps track of anyone who dares to dispute his words. They now are on the shit list and some may wind up in jail

Riots And Snooping

Fred Stopsky — Wed, 19 Jun 2013 06:01:57 +0000

Riots broke out in major cities in Brazil over increases in transportation fare, in growing disgust over government corruption and in a police crackdown on people who believe they have the right to express opinions that are not supportive of government actions. Police used batons to beat the hell out of those engaged in protesting. In Istanbul, thousands of miles away, police beat the hell out of those protesting construction of malls which destroy parks. These are not the first protests in human history, they simply are examples of how humans now have a social media which can display their opposition to corrupt government. There is nothing new about these expressions of disgust with government, they simply prove that a single human can now be heard expressing a single opinion.

Even as these people protested the president of the United States of America believed the critical issue of modern life is the right of government to spy on its own citizens. Barack Obama has a tendency to always be a step behind people. He never was able to even explain in clear terms the Affordable Care Act. He actually believes Americans are concerned about Syria. Two years ago, he should have demanded that Arab oil governments organized military support for Syrian rebels. Obama is always a step out of turn.

Education Gone Wrong

Fred Stopsky — Wed, 19 Jun 2013 06:01:34 +0000

Jarud Marcum is a 14 year old boy who attends junior high school in Logan County, West Virginia. He showed up at school wearing a tee shirt that had the NRA logo and shouted to the world, “Protect Your Right.” The boy believes he has the right to possess a gun and wants the world to know about his rights. He was informed by school authorities to remove the tee shirt and then engaged in a verbal argument with police who were enforcing the dress code of this school. He now faces the prospect of a $500 fine or a year in jail. There are reports that dozens of other youth wore tee shirts supporting his rights.

During the Vietnam War the Tinker children came to school wearing an arm band which depicted their opposition to the war. The Supreme Court in the Tinker Decision said students had the right to protest peacefully and that was not a violation of school rules. The same should apply to the Marcum case. Actually, this incident provided a teacher a wonderful opportunity to foster critical thinking. How about a debate dealing with either: the right to wear a tee shirt or a discussion about gun control?

Jarud belongs on a platform engaged in a discussion, not talking with police about his free speech rights. I am certain former educator, Barack Obama would agree.

Return Of Sarah

Fred Stopsky — Wed, 19 Jun 2013 06:01:03 +0000

For some unknown reason the folks at Fox News decided to ask Sarah Palin to depart from the premises. Thus, for several months the American people were unable to obtain the wisdom of the woman from Alaska. It appears that she used this time to lose a little weight and obtain some stylish clothes. She also has decided to read Dr. Seuss and lift his ideas as part of her campaign to spread knowledge to the children of this nation. She wants little kids to understand that “liberals” seek to corrupt their minds with tales about equality of people or the right of lazy folk to secure medical care. As we all know, God is not part of any health insurance plan and He is doing OK!

Sarah is back with her smile of wisdom, her sword thrusts at homeless folk and those who must raise children without benefit of money or health care or day care. These women are not able to raise a child according to the tenets of God. If only they raised their children as does Sarah, the era of illegitimate children will end. Anyway, glad Sarah has returned to fight the evil of banning large sodas. With Sarah on His side, God will sleep at peace tonight.

NOBODY ASKED ME BUT

Fred Stopsky — Tue, 18 Jun 2013 05:23:43 +0000

We offer observations on the human condition from a 22 year old mind trapped in an 83 year old body.

NOBODY ASKED ME BUT

My true friends are all dead.

To me, bad manners are a sin.

Wrong question to pose me while on a walk: have you lost your dog!

Children strive to appear taller.

College students have no yesterday, just today.

Tallest woman in group always leads it.

In the end, we decide our lives.

We can not undo the past, only the moment.

Maturity is being able to see self, as is.

The pen is my weapon of war.

One must periodically evaluate self.

I wonder what birds think, I assume they do.

Mothers carry things differently than do men.

Long time since I heard the word, “scam.”

To have meaning is to have life.

Some stand to explain, others do not.

In the end, self respect is what really counts.

One can only love another if one loves self.

At age, 82, the question is simply: when??

Live life if you want it to love you.

Are You Listening To Me?

Fred Stopsky — Tue, 18 Jun 2013 05:23:01 +0000

There are no longer any “secrets” concerning listening in to conversations of those deemed to be “enemies.” Turkey is furious at reports that during aG-20 meeting of finance ministers British secret service agents listened to what Turkish Finance Minister Mehmet Simsek was saying to his staff or someone. I assume what he told his staff was told to other finance ministers, but there is a principle somewhere about not bugging the residence of those with whom one meets. Simsek is mad. Simsek wants an apology. Apparently the British were attempting to find out if Turkey was willing to cooperate with other nations. I would assume the British would learn this piece of information during the meeting.

The British government was asked if it would comment. British Embassy officials in Turkey made clear their government does not comment on what its intelligence agency does or says. I assume this means M16 has no connection with the British government.

The End Of Israel Democracy!

Fred Stopsky — Tue, 18 Jun 2013 05:22:11 +0000

Those who founded the state of Israel believed in the principle that both Palestinians and Jewish Israelis had to possess their own nation and live in peace with one another.Naftali Bennett, newly appointed minister of economics and trade informed the people of Israel that any idea for a separate Palestinian state would not be allowed. Referring tot the idea of a Palestinian state, he made clear, “never have so many people invested so much energy in something that is hopeless.” He wants to move forward by annexting Area C of the West Banka nd make it part of the state of Israel “as quickly as possible.”

In other words, the Palestinian people can have a small piece of the West Bank, not be citizens of Israel but inhabit some form of no man’s land. US Secretary of State John Kerry now confronts the reality of people who do NOT believe in compromise. Of course, these are the same people who decry Iran for failing to compromise. Bennett argues, “this land has been ours for 3,000 years.” I guess my study of history was not correct. I thought only a small number of Jews resided in this land for 2,000 years while the majority fled to other parts of the world.

Today, both Jews and Muslims and Christians live on what is termed the West Bank. Now, is the time to bring all people together and allow all to possess land.

Turkish Leaders Talk Turkey

Fred Stopsky — Tue, 18 Jun 2013 05:20:37 +0000

The current impasse in Turkey between those seeking to half construction of a mall began when activists took over a park in order to demonstrate their anger at the increasing autocratic behavior of Prime Minister Recep Erdogan. It has since escalated into violent confrontations because Erdogan believes he is defending the government of Turkey. Several Turkish trade unions announced they would go on strike in order to demonstrate support for those fighting to defend Gezi Park against destruction. Police stood guard over Taksim Square to prevent activists from entering the area in order to continue their protest.

There is no doubt some unionists who protest a government decision to build a mall will be punished, if not arrested for daring to make clear support for activists. Erdogan has lost credibility as an international leader, but he definitely has boosted his ego.

Tragedy Of Iraq

Fred Stopsky — Tue, 18 Jun 2013 05:20:19 +0000

Once upon a time, not so long ago there were some wise men who believed it was their responsibility to share their wisdom with those in the backward Middle East who did not understand how to create a modern society. So George and Don and Dick sent American forces into Iraq in order to get rid of the bad, bad dictator and replace him with peace and democracy. Oh, there were a few minor problems but George sent in General David who slew the evil giant beasts and brought peace and democracy to those in Iraq.

It is a decade later. Over the weekend at least 51 more people died due to terrorist attacks-hey, I thought General David ended violence with his “surge?” Each day there is another and another car bombing, another and another attack by either Sunni or Shiite folk and the war goes on.

Good news! George is chopping wood in Texas and Dick is wandering around giving his words of wisdom to all and Don is writing books to make gobs of money. And, Iraqis die and die.

Putin Supports Democracy

Fred Stopsky — Tue, 18 Jun 2013 05:19:55 +0000

There are unconfirmed reports that President Vladimir Putin has decided to transform Russia into a model of what should constitute a democratic society. First, to make clear, he agreed with British Prime Minister David Cameron about the importance of ending the Syrian civil war. Putin opposes any form of violence against innocent people and hopes the world would adhere to democratic principles practiced in his beloved Russia. This is a man of peace and gentleness. Just ask anyone who has been in the care of Russian police how their rights were respected and they were treated like an old friend.

Putin is upset at the video of a rebel who took a bite of the heart of a government soldier. “Are these the people you want to support?” asked Putin. Now, if they broke a few legs or beat the hell out of someone and put them in jail for a few years, that would prove they were men of peace and democracy!

Iran Uncertain About Future

Fred Stopsky — Tue, 18 Jun 2013 05:19:31 +0000

A new president has been elected in Iran and his initial comments offer both hope and uncertainty. He insists “the Syrian crisis must be resolved by the people of Syria. We are against terrorism, civil war and foreign internvention.” OK, we agree. I assume this means Russia and Iran will cease providing arms and planes and troops to assist President Assad. How can any sane person oppose allowing the people of Syria to determine their future. This would require a free election. Anyone in Iran for that idea?

Newly elected Hassabn Rowhani emphasized his desire for resolution of the conflict over nuclear weapons with western nations. There is a solution. Iran is supported in its efforts to develop a nuclear industry and it agrees not to build atomic weapons. It IS time to end threats and engage in negotiations based on the right of Iran to have a nuclear industry.

HEADLINES FROM WORLD PRESS

Fred Stopsky — Mon, 17 Jun 2013 04:46:08 +0000

We offer samples of headlines that appeared in the world press along with our comments.

Russia, Moscow Times: ”Putin-Wife Separate”

Now, how can the Russian people separate from him?

UK, Guardian: ”Sued Over Big Man”

Or, was it something on the big man?

Sweden, Local: ”Work Does Not Fall From Sky”

And, it sure doesn’t fall from the kindness of our wealthy folk.

Denmark, Copenhagen Post: ”Minister Will Attend Gay Parade”

How jolly of him.

France, Connexion: ”Bank Robberies Drop”

No surprise in Greece, there is less money to steal.

USA, NY Daily News: ”My Husband Is A Vampire”

His name is Abraham Lincoln.

Netherlands, Dutch News: ”Don’t Wear Tight Pants”

Just have a tight purse.

New Era In Iran?

Fred Stopsky — Mon, 17 Jun 2013 04:45:29 +0000

During the past five years Republicans have been blasting the “weak” policy of the Obama administration toward Iran. Mitt Romney promised, if elected, to let the Iranians know they can not refuse demands of the United States and John McCain is ready to send in the troops. There was an election in Iran over the weekend which resulted in victory for Hasan Rouhani. The cleric is a close ally of Hashemi Rafsanjani who has been urging resuming talks with western nations. Rouhani gained at least 50% of the vote and immediately came out with a new approach to other nations. “We won’t let the past eight years be continued. I’ll pursue a policy of reconciliation and peace. We will reconcile with the world.”

In the streets cars were honking their horns, people smiling and hugging one another while shouting “Ahmadi Bye Bye.” It was a farewell song to current President Ahmadinejad. So, Republicans, was the Obama approach the right one?

Putin, The Medicine Man

Fred Stopsky — Mon, 17 Jun 2013 04:44:33 +0000

During the nineteenth century there would appear a man in your town with a wagon from which he dispensed bottles of nostrums designed to cure one and all forms of disease. Naturally, before anyone could figure out if the medicine actually worked, the man would be gone and in another town with his miracle cures. Vladimir Putin heads an army that would encounter difficulty defeating any armed force in Africa or even the Middle East, but he continues to frighten the world with dire prospects of war. Actually, Putin still retains a decent armament industry and uses its weapons to frighten the world.

A little man with a modest armed force now has the world shaking in its boots because he hands out weapons of mass destruction to anyone who enables him to claim more and more power. He is a man made of mud who intimidates any who oppose his rule, both in Russia or elsewhere in the world.

Erdogan And God

Fred Stopsky — Mon, 17 Jun 2013 04:44:02 +0000

Recept Erdogan is a man with memories. He remembers being attacked, sent to prison and treated like a man without any power because he did not accept the world of Turkish generals. He has not and will not forget the years of powerlessness. He decided, as chief city planner of Turkey, to alter the city of Istanbul by building a new mall. Thousands of people did not want the mall but he pursued his dream and the end result was open conflict. He did back down–for a moment– and talked quietly, but old memories of being powerless returned to his mind. He met with HIS followers and proclaimed: “nobody can intimidate us. We don’t take orders or instructions from anybody except God.”

Police returned to Gezi Park, they resumed beating up people, using gas and water cannon and made clear to one and all that God Himself had declared anyone who opposes the new mall in Istanbul is a TERRORIST!!

Police Are Discontented

Fred Stopsky — Mon, 17 Jun 2013 04:43:37 +0000

The so called, “election”of Mohamed Morsi to the presidency has ushered in a new era of uncertainty and anger which has rippled through the entire society of Egypt. Interior Minister MOhaed Ibrahim made clear that a large segment of members of the police force are angry at the inept leadership of their “president.” His statement came a day after the funeral of a member of the security forces when large numbers of police chanted angry remarks against President Morsi.

Ibrahim made clear the Interior Ministry will not confront those planning to protest on June 30 against the president and his buddies in the Muslim Brotherhood. The economy is in chaos, Morsi has allowed attacks on Coptic Christians and seeks to allow the Muslim Brotherhood to extend its power in the government. A mass rally is planned and, most probably, there will be physical clashes as Egyptians make clear their desire for a democratic society.

Change In North Korea?

Fred Stopsky — Mon, 17 Jun 2013 04:43:09 +0000

North Korea is a mystery wrapped in an enigma of confusion, a land which engages in nonstop uttering of threats and warnings. However, there are reports that China has made clear to its tiny neighbor that neither development of nuclear weapons or engaging in war will be allowed. The North Korean National Defense Commission which is led by our Beloved All Wise Great Leader, Kim Jong-un, has asked for talks with the United States and South Korea in order to reduce tensions on the peninsula. They want high level discussions and are ready to engage in serious discussions.

This might be a ploy, this might be another dodge, this might be another empty promise, but the path to peace is always, “jaw, jaw, not war, war.”

Sex At State Department

Fred Stopsky — Mon, 17 Jun 2013 04:42:42 +0000

There must be moments these days when Mitt Romney sighs with relief knowing that he is not the president and can not be blamed for the IRS or wire tapping or Libya or Syria or what to do about Iran. Our current president must now confront a new episode involving sex in the State Department. An investigation is now in process concerning sexual misconduct by overseas staff and apparently by an ambassador who enjoyed the company of prostitutes. Allegedly, a security detail in Beirut engaged prostitutes while on official business and there was some hanky panky with members of the security detail.

Why should this shock anyone. Every day members of Congress engage in acts of prostitution with lobbyists which entail selling their vote or their soul for some bucks. In the case of members of Congress, they are the prostitutes. Oh well, let’s just blame one more thing on the black dude from Africa!

NOBODY ASKED ME BUT

Fred Stopsky — Sat, 15 Jun 2013 04:54:41 +0000

We offer observations on the human condition from a 22 year old mind trapped in an 82 year old body.

NOBODY ASKED ME BUT

In olden days, girls held the purse, today the iPad.

White haired old men usually have smile on face.

I never wore a uniform as a child, I was born poor.

A quarter in my youth was a lot of money.

Older sister pats younger brother on head as they walk.

Person who will pay is usually on end of line.

After a while unfamiliar faces become familiar.

INSULT! I was asked if I needed help with the bags.

Hot weather, sore toe, opposing forces in action.

Little boys enjoy flopping on the couch.

Mom should not talk with child while having a full mouth.

There are no bad or good deeds, just deeds.

I wonder how a tall person can handle a tiny cell phone.

I am baffled at the American love affair with guns. After the Army, who wants to see one again?

Green tee shirt indicates one is involved in physical labor.

Tall men should marry tall women to raise our heights.

Girl wearing a plaid skirt attends parochial school.

It is half a century since I saw someone wearing knickers.

My ignorance of technology can not be underestimated.

No Gay Time In Russia

Fred Stopsky — Sat, 15 Jun 2013 04:53:44 +0000

There is a land we call, Russia, which is led by a Beloved Leader who regards himself as the only one who can be gay in the land. It is OK to smile in his land, but beware of acting openly gay all the time. A new law will impose stiff fines and prison time to anyone who promotes “homosexual propoganda” to minors. In other words if two people are discussing homosexuality in a public place in which there are young children, then they have broken the law since a child may have heard their conversation. Just imagine if two kids heard people talk about something termed, “homosexuality?”

I assume if two men or two women were walking down the street and decided to hold hands they are guilty of promoting gay attitudes to children. I assume if two men met and hugged one another they are guilty of promoting gay attitudes to children. If I was Vladimir Putin I would make certain not to hug a man upon greeting him. That is promoting bad ideas! And, kids might see the hug!

All Quiet In Gezi Park

Fred Stopsky — Sat, 15 Jun 2013 04:53:21 +0000

Prime Minister Recep Erdogan has been on a roll for the past few years as he consolidates power and destroys any opposition institution. He decided to build a huge mall in Istanbul and ran straight into thousands of people who did not believe the prime minister was also a city designer. They seized Gezi Park and organized protests against his one man rule. After over a week of conflict during which Recep threatened to beat the hell out of those who dare to oppose him, the prime minister decided that quiet if preferable to angry noise of conflict. He announced that plans for the mall were suspended pending a court review.

This may not be the end of this story. Erdogan wants to show the people of Turkey and the world that no one tells the supreme ruler what to do. Was it simply a step back before taking some steps forward that might step on some innocent people??

I’m Me, Not You!

Fred Stopsky — Sat, 15 Jun 2013 04:52:47 +0000

Life in a captialist world is a non-ceasing conflict as to whether I am a person who is in possession of some rights to life. The United States Supreme Court unanimously ruled that natural human genes cannot be patented. It held that human DNA was a “product of nature” and a basic tool of scientific and technological work that was essential for the human race. It struck down an effort by Myriad Genetics and its effort to take possession of work on cancer. Gee, even silent man Clarence Thomas finally said something. “We hold that a naturallyoccuring DNA segment is a product of nature and not patent eligible merely because it has been isolated.”

I assume the Republican party will denounce this decision as one more example of “Big Government” interfering with the free enterprise system. What next, not allowing me to spank my kids!

Stop And Cease?

Fred Stopsky — Sat, 15 Jun 2013 04:52:27 +0000

The people of New York City are divided over the ongoing stop and search policies of its police department. Each year about 800,000 New Yorkers are halted, searched by members of the police department, and then, either sent on their way or sent to the nearest precinct station. Many New Yorkers claim this policy is the cause of a drop in crime. Yes, Commissioner Ray Kelly,crime has dropped, the number of murders has dropped, but there is no evidence stopping and searching has anything to do with this result. Attorney General Eric Holder wants a judge to monitor the NYPD in order to halt its stop-and-frisk policies.

Reality, 80% of those halted are African Americans and Hispanics. Reality, crime is dropping in every major city, including those which lack a halt and search policy. There have been hurricanes in New York City, were they the cause of a drop in crime? Reality, whenever the age cohort of 18-28 drops in size, crime also drops. Stop and search is NOT the cause of crime reduction.

No Fly And Guns?

Fred Stopsky — Sat, 15 Jun 2013 04:51:54 +0000

It was simply a matter of time before President Obama decideit was necessary to become involved in the ongoing war in Syria which, at last report, has led to the deaths of over 93,000 people. Apparently, he has authorized sending weapons to those fighting against the tyrannical regime of President Bashar al-Assad. It is still unclear as to the type of weapons that will be sent, whether a “no fly zone” will be established and whether missiles to shoot down planes will be sent. Oh, there are reports of chemical weapon use, but the bottom line is that Iran and Hezbollah are sending in men, equipment and money to President Assad.

The more important question is the lack of weapons and money being sent to rebels by wealthy leaders in Saudi Arabia or the Gulf States? Surely, Saudi Arabia has modern weapons, so why are they not sending them to the rebels? In the end, this war must be resolved by people in the Middle East and not by the people of the United States of America!

Like Son, Like Dad?

Fred Stopsky — Sat, 15 Jun 2013 04:51:23 +0000

Senator Jake Flake is a member of Congress and he is a devoted father as well as being a devoted Mormon. He has children and they have their own views about life. His son Tanner apparently has picked up along the road of life some rather interesting views about people of other faiths and other colored skin. Tanner enjoys sharing with the world his dislike of Jews and black Americans. In the modern world it is difficult having control over what one’s child shares on Twitter or Facebook. Tanner prefers referring to those he does not like as “fucking idiots” who should be beaten up.

Senator Flake is a flake when it comes to issues of social justice. No, he is not responsible for every comment made by his son. But, one must wonder how a child’s views are shaped when dad does not give a damn about poor people, when dad does not give a damn about those lacking health care. Blame Muslims and blame Hispanics and one might inadvertently be shaping the views of one’s children.

HEADLINES FROM WORLD PRESS

Fred Stopsky — Fri, 14 Jun 2013 06:38:25 +0000

We offer samples of headlines that appeared in the world press along with our comments.

New Zealand, New Zealand Herald: ”Gambling Aid Hotline”

Call it to help lose your money.

USA, NY Daily News: ”IRS Ruined My Life”

My name is Barack Obama.

Russia, Moscow Times: ”Vampire Stalin”

So, that’s why he loved blood so much.

France, Connexion: ”French Wine Comes From Italy”

They have some Gaul.

Netherlands, Dutch News: ”Ecstasy Pills Get Stronger”

And people get weaker.

Denmark,Copenhagen Post: ”Chimpanzee Bullied”

Just pound on your chest.

Canada, Toronto Star: ”What To Do When Pregnant”

Stay away from an abortion clinic?

Forever And A Day

Fred Stopsky — Fri, 14 Jun 2013 06:37:53 +0000

We Americans enjoy being involved in wars. We have a war on crime, a war on drugs, a war on terror and we have a daily war on being obese. Fortunately for those who enjoy wars that can never end we do have a law called the National Defense Authorization Act which allows the government in pursuit of its war on terrorism to detain people that it deems to be “terrorists.” They can be arrested, placed in jail and kept there until the “war on terror” concludes. Oh, that means an American who the government decides is a “terrorist” can be sent to prison -INDEFINITELY since the war on terror will never end anymore than the war on crime or the war on drugs will conclude.

Congressman Adam Smith introduced a bill that would require if an American is charged with being a “terrorist” that he/she would be entitled to a trial by a jury. It lost, 220 to 216. I must admit to feeling safe knowing there are Americans in prison who were never charged with a crime nor given a trial. I assume this is the America that our Founding Fathers fought for.