Sedalia's Tale

Back to Work Again

2008-09-11T09:15:00.004-04:00

A political campaign kept me busy for several months. A different blog site was used for those months. Now the protests continue back here at the old home place.

It is nice being back again. There are so many stories to be told. So many lives were touched along the campaign trail. I am grateful for having had the chance to run a campaign and look forward to further political activism in the future.

Life is good today as always. Who knows what will be around the next corner as one chapter of life closes and another begins to be written?

Peace.

A Day at Guantanamo as a Detainee

2008-03-29T07:56:00.002-04:00

Imagine for a few moments how your life would change if you were suddenly charged as an enemy combatant and sent to Guantanamo Bay as a detainee.

You'd be transported under conditions of sensory deprivation to maximize your disorientation.

Brooke Anderson, Flickr, Creative Commons

Carlos Ferrer, Flickr, Creative Commons

Carlos Ferrer, Flickr, Creative Commons

If you were really unlucky you'd end in Camp Delta.

Lorri 37, Flickr, Creative Commons

In any event there would be guard towers all around the place.

USMarine0311, Flickr, Creative Commons

You might be allowed to exercise, or maybe be gathered as a group in an enclosed pen.

ManilaRyce, Flickr, Creative Commons

Your day would not begin or end with regularity. From the LA Times the story continues:

It's a dreary winter afternoon, but the scene could be any time of the day or night. The hour for rec time is one of the few unpredictable features in a day in the life of a detainee.

Reveille is at 5 a.m., when guards collect the single bedsheet allotted to each detainee. That precaution has been in effect since June 2006, when three prisoners were found dead, hanging from nooses fashioned from their bedding.

When they do leave their cells, prisoners are shackled and escorted -- to and from showers, recreation pens, interrogation interviews, and a meeting or two each year with their lawyers. They leave their cells in the "hard facilities" of Camps 5, 6 and the new 7 for no other reason, unless they are found to need medical or dental treatment when corpsmen make periodic rounds.

Once a man has refused nine consecutive meals, he is considered a hunger striker and brought to the detention medical center. His head, arms and legs are strapped to a "restraint chair" while a tube is threaded through his nose and throat into the stomach. A doctor-recommended quantity of Ensure is administered.

Under those circumstances forced feeding is one more nice way of saying "torture." Put yourself in the prisoner's place and imagine the pain and distress of being strapped down and having a tube forced into your body.

A schoolroom was added to the predominantly Afghan camp last year to teach basic written Pashtu and Urdu to the illiterate.

Leather-and-steel shackles protrude from the floor beneath each desk where prisoners' ankles are tethered during classes.

mushroomandrooster, Flickr, Creative Commons

Lights are kept on in the cells 24/7 for what military jailers said were security reasons.

The full story has many more details than my excerpts. You should read the entire article. And put yourself in the place and time as you read. Then remember this is our nation at work. We, the citizens of the United States are represented by the actions of every day in Guantanamo. We cannot let this continue.

jemstaht, Flickr, Creative Commons

The United States needs to close the prison at Guantanamo Bay as soon as possible. All detainees deserve the right to a fair trial or release. We cannot continue to hold human beings in the conditions of Guantanamo if we as a nation hope to hold any measure of moral high ground.

Peace.

Air Pollution in the Delaware Region

2008-03-29T07:25:00.003-04:00

The picture of our air is not a pretty one. The region from Philadelphia to Washington, DC, and extending into Maryland and middle Pennsylvania ranks high on the list of most polluted air in the nation. Have a look.

Most polluted cities

Smog:

1 Los Angeles (CA)
2 Bakersfiled (CA)
3 Visalia-Porterville (CA)
4 Fresno (CA)
5 Houston (TX)
6 Merced (CA)
7 Dallas (TX)
8 Sacramento (CA)
9 Baton Rouge (LA)
10 New York (NY)
11 Washington (DC), Baltimore (MD)
12 Philadelphia (PA)
13 Modesto (CA)
14 Hanford (CA)
15 Phoenix (AZ)
16 Charlotte (NC)
17 Las Vegas (NV)
18 Milwaukee (WI)
19 St Louis (MO)
20 El Centro (CA)
21 Kansas City (KS)
22 Beaumont (TX)
23 Chicago (IL)
24 Grand Rapids (MI)
25 Atlanta (GA)
26 Cleveland (OH)

Particles:

1 Los Angeles (CA)
2 Pittsburgh (PA)
3 Bakersfield (CA)
4 Birmingham (AL)
5 Detroit (MI)
6 Cleveland (OH)
7 Visalia (CA)
8 Cincinnati (OH)
9 Indianapolis (IN)
10 ST Louis (MO)
11 Chicago (IL)
12 Lancaster (PA)
13 Atlanta (GA)
14 York (PA)
15 Fresno (CA)
16 Weirton (WV)
17 Hanford (CA)
18 New York (NY)
19 Canton (OH)
20 Washington(DC) Baltimore (MD)
21 Charleston (WV)
22 Louisville (KY)
23 Huntington (WV)
24 Philadelphia (PA)
25 Hagerstown (MD)
26 Rome (GA)

Source: The American Lung Association

Meanwhile we continue to generate electricity in a coal fired plant at Indian River. And we continue to discuss possible wind generated power without making a move. We cannot afford this discussion. The time for action is now. We are late already, but if we continue to pollute our air one day our region will begin to look like Los Angeles.

The nation needs new and more strict regulation of auto emissions along with stringent rules for industrial emissions. Our children and grandchildren deserve a chance to breathe clean air. We deserve the same chance.

Peace.

Moving the Site

2007-08-12T06:55:00.001-04:00

In order to begin the pursuit of a Congressional race, I am moving the blog to Northingon '08. This site and its posts will be archived to remain available. Thanks for visiting. See you at the new site.

The Failing Surge

2007-08-07T18:35:00.001-04:00

Despite the slight drop in American deaths in Iraq during July, the month remains the worst July since the invasion. August is off to a bad start already with American deaths averaging nearly 3 per day. We see reports in the news of shortages of drinking water at a time when temperatures are at a peak. Electricity production remains far below pre-invasion levels. And now the Kurds in northern Iraq are planning their own oil control in apparent frustration over the failure of the central government to make any progress toward a better resolution.

In spite of all the evidence to the contrary Bush and his administration continue to claim success for the surge in Iraq. What price success? How many more Americans must die before our country recognizes the failure and begins withdrawal? What is an American presence offering to the benefit of the Iraqi people? We must leave Iraq as soon as possible lest the cost to America be one too great to pay.

A Timetable for Withdrawal from Iraq is Necessary

2007-08-02T10:32:00.000-04:00

Democrats in the Congress are as divided in some ways as the American public seems to be. Many Democrats in Congress wish to see a withdrawal date as part of any ongoing Iraq resolutions. Republicans are resolute in opposing any such defined date. House Speaker Pelosi has turned her direction toward the Republican side in opposition to her colleagues in an apparent bid to compromise A bill in the House would order Presiden Bush to formulate a plan to redeploy American troops within 2 months of the bill’s passage. Many House Democrats wish to see such a bill passed but with the provision of a withdrawal date.

Turning away from a defined date for leaving Iraq is a failing course on so many levels. The United States can ill afford to continue either the monetary or the human costs of the occupation. American put more than 100,000 troops into Iraq in less than 6 weeks at the time of the invasion. We should be able to withdraw at least as quickly. The time is here to set a timetable for full and complete withdrawal from Iraq. The country is suffering a slow and painful death from a million cuts as we remain mired in Iraq. We must end the war and withdraw now.

Poor Performing President

2007-08-02T10:09:00.001-04:00

The local newspaper has a letter to the editor asking people to support the President. The writer puts forth a view that he would be doing a better job if only the Democrats would stop their collective foot dragging.

I beg to differ. The President is doing a very fine job of running our country right into the ground without support from any of us on the Democrat side. President Bush and a Republican controlled Congress led the country to invade Iraq on the basis of contrived evidence. Even the President has admitted there was no connection between Iraq and 9/11. Our continuing occupation of Iraq is a monetary and people drain the country cannot afford and certainly cannot sustain.

Dissent is a high form of patriotism. Without dissent and the allowance of such we would have a full dictatorship. I submit the President would be much better advised to listen to the voice of the people instead of the voices of the sycophants surrounding him in Washington. Maybe then we could restore our country to its rightful place in the world as a leader instead of an example of moral turpitude.

BUSH is a four letter word.

2007-07-30T11:33:00.001-04:00

See Tigana's site here for more fine political images.

End the Occupation of Iraq NOW

2007-07-19T12:58:00.001-04:00

As Congress and the administration continue to debate the ongoing occupation of Iraq, all of America is ignoring the fact that the Iraqi people want us out of their country. As a veteran with firsthand knowledge of the ravages war can bring to a country, I understand and support their position. The Iraqi people desire and deserve a chance to run their own country. We Americans are a foreign force and are the aggressors in Iraq. The time has come to leave Iraq once and for all.

Write your Congressmen and let them know. All our Delaware Congressmen have been supporters of the war at various times. Congressman Castle continues to this day to support the continued occupation. This position no longer represents the will of most Delawarians and is completely opposed to what the Iraqi people wish for themselves.

End the war now. Bring our troops home alive and well. We can give our troops no finer support than to bring them home from a country that no longer desires their presence.

Draft Chris Vucovich

2007-07-16T08:30:00.000-04:00

A young man named Chris Vucovich criticized both Cindy Sheehan and a Vietnam Veteran at a recent rally. I have no more to say than:

Find more images here at Tigana's site.

We Cannot Win the War on Terror by Military Force

2007-07-14T10:31:00.000-04:00

In 2004 at the Republican national convention, President Bush when asked about the war on terrorism said, “I don't think you can win it.” The statement was quickly retracted and the spin doctors went to work to change the perception. But for a moment in his life the President was correct. Terrorism will not be eliminated by military action. Diplomacy and economic support may in fact work in the end but force only generates an equal and opposite reaction as we continue to see in Iraq.

Congress continues to support the occupation of Iraq in spite of the continuing spiral of a worsening situation and more dead Americans. How long will we, the voting public, allow this to continue? What are not people outraged? Why are our Congessional members not moving to end this drain on our country? Congress continues to support the occupation and the ongoing war. When will he begin to listen to the public and to see the facts of the situation instead of continuing to play Republican politics? The health and welfare of the nation is at stake. I urge Congress to take a new and realistic stand in opposition to the war before all is lost in the end.

Iraq Is an Insurgent Training Ground

2007-07-14T10:06:00.001-04:00

The initial invasion of Iraq was pushed by President Bush as a reaction to threats from within the country and the presence of Weapons of Mass Destruction. Since that invasion the facts have come forth. There was no imminent threat from Iraq and there were no Weapons of Mass Destruction. Iraq has disintegrated into a mass of insurgent activity. The insurgents are uncontrolled in much of the country today whether American forces are present or not. The continued presence of American troops provides an insurgent training ground which did not exist before the invasion.

Congress continues to vote in favor of the occupation at the expense of both American lives and the American treasury. He needs to take a better look at this failing course and change his mind. The citizens of this country deserve better leadership and real representation. Let Congressman Castle know today what you think. Silence will not bring any changes. Only by letting our voices be heard loud and clear do we have any chance of bringing about a new direction for the country.

End the Occupation of Iraq Today

2007-07-14T09:40:00.000-04:00

Four long years and some months ago America was led into the invasion of Iraq by President Bush and the Republican controlled Congress. Since that time Congress has continued to vote in support of the ongoing occupation in spite of all indications Iraq is a failing country. The losses in terms of dollars and lives (both American and Iraqi) are rising daily. The situation in Iraq is worse now than ever before. Given the fact there was no imminent threat from Iraq at the time of the initial invasion both the original invasion and the current occupation can only be seen as illegal and immoral.

We need a change in this country today. We need a final timetable for full American withdrawal from Iraq. We need to replace those politicians who continue to support the war. Change cannot come soon enough. Too many have died and too much is lost. We all must work to end the war as soon as possible. No other course is acceptable any longer.

Time to Leave Iraq

2007-07-11T12:36:00.000-04:00

As an American citizen I see the ongoing push by President Bush to equate Al Qaida and the violence in Iraq as most disconcerting. Congress continues to allow his position of supporting the war no matter the opinion of the voters. What are we to do to change this situation? How can we convince Congress that the current course is wrong and that a new direction is needed? When will Congressman begin to hear what his electorate is saying?

Experts agree the major cause of violence in Iraq is between Sunni and Shiite groups and is not a primary result of Al Qaida or any other external group. There has been no demonstrated connection between Iraq and Al Qaida in advance of the 9/11 attacks. President Bush and his Republican support team including much of the Congress can say all they wish about this situation but the facts continue to speak for themselves.

This war needs an end today. We need timetables for the withdrawal of American troops. Congress needs to take a real stand and oppose the continued funding of an endless war. The time to take that stand is today and not one day later.

Bring the Troops Home NOW!!!

2007-07-10T18:52:00.000-04:00

As a parent I am saddened by the continuing loss of life in Iraq and Afghanistan. To date more than 4000 of our soldiers have died. Congress supports the continuing occupation of Iraq. To that end he is responsible for each and every death that occurs. I and my friends here in northern Delaware wish to see an end to the losses. Too many have died already. Congress needs to change the course and take a real stand for peace. We here in Wilmington expect to have our view represented in Washington along with the view of so many around the country. Our position is no more need be lost to the war. Bring the troops home and do so NOW before any more are let to die.

$12 Billion a Month for Iraq and Afghanistan

2007-07-10T18:45:00.001-04:00

As a concerned citizen and community member I am distressed by the amounts of money being spent in Iraq and Afghanistan today. Current estimates put the total at about $12 billion. Congressman Castle continues to support these expenses without any measure of consideration for an end to the process. I hope for better from our Representative. We surely deserve better as citizens and voters.

I urge Congressman Castle to stop the endless spending and to support a timetable for withdrawal of all American forces from Iraq. He has stated on multiple occasions his opposition to any fixed timetable for withdrawal. That position is no longer acceptable. Congressman Castle must take a stronger stand in opposition to the ongoing war if he wishes to get my vote in any future election.

End the Endless War in Iraq

2007-07-10T18:37:00.000-04:00

As an active community member I continue to be concerned about the effects of the ongoing war in Iraq. In the past few days we have heard news that the Iraqi government will miss all the goals for political and economic reform set by the Bush Administration. Congress continues to support the ongoing occupation in the face of increasing bad news and a failing course. I am sorely disappointed in his stance.

The time has come for a responsible plan to withdraw American troops from Iraq. We can no longer sustain a continuing presence with no end whatever in sight. The cost to our country in terms of both money and lives is just too great. I urge Congress to take a real stand for a withdrawal timetable so America can get back on course once again and cease this endless war.

We Need a Timetable for Withdrawal from Iraq

2007-07-10T18:28:00.001-04:00

During his time in office Congressman Castle supported the Iraq invasion and now continues to support the continued occupation in spite of increasing American loss of life. Most Americans today are opposed to any continuation of the war. Congressman Castle seems not to hear that message. I urge the Congressman to change his way of thinking. To that end I as a Delaware voter urge his voting only to support continuing funding measures that include a defined timetable for withdrawal of all American forces from Iraq. Only by ending the American presence in Iraq can the Iraqis have any hope of restoring their country.

Support the Troops--Bring Them Home Alive

2007-07-10T10:24:00.001-04:00

The continuing occupation of Iraq is a divisive matter about which few in this country fail to have an opinion on one side or the other. “Support the Troops” ribbons adorn the bumpers of many vehicles today. No matter what any of us may think of the war and its consequences, we all support the troops on the ground. Our soldiers have earned all the support we can muster. At the same time the troops deserve our opposition to the war. So long as our soldiers are kept in Iraq they remain in harms way. The very best way we can support our troops is to bring them home alive and well.

The occupation of Iraq will end only when we, the American people, let Congress and the President know of our feelings. Today we can stand in protest, we can write our Congressional representatives. We can voice our opinions. While the troops remain on station in a war zone we are not giving them our full support.

Call on Congress for Change

2007-07-10T09:51:00.000-04:00

President Bush has a pattern of obstructing justice by refusing to permit witnesses to testify or provide evidence in oversight hearings. This obstruction of justice must be brought to an abrupt halt. Congress has the power of subpoena which is supported by multiple court decisions over the years. That Congress continues to bow to Bush’s pretentious actions is unconscionable. The time has come for Congress to take a stand and to be responsible as one part of our government.

The administration must be held accountable for all its behavior. We, the American people, have been continuously misled and lied to by President Bush and his administration. The early examples have to do with Iraq and the complete absence of any connection between Iraq and Al Qaeda or any possession of weapons of mass destruction by Iraq. The latest affair is the complete repudiation of our judicial process as evidenced by the pardoning of “Scooter“ Libby.

The time for a reverse in course is here. Congress must be held accountable by ever citizen. Write, call, or Fax your Senators and your Representatives. Let them know we will no longer sit idly by and allow our county to be destroyed by the Bush cabal. We have lost so much already. We have no more to lose.

The Time for Change has Come

2007-07-10T09:41:00.000-04:00

Our children are dying on a daily basis in Iraq as a direct result of failed leadership in the White House and the administration. President Bush and the Republican controlled Congress led us into the invasion and subsequent occupation of Iraq on the basis of misleading information and outright misstatements of fact. The time has come for a change.

Impeachment is a legal proceeding begun by investigation in Congress. We need those investigations to begin today. Various Congressional committees have the power of subpoena. That power needs to be exercised as soon as possible to get to the truth of so much in Washington. We need to find the truth about Iraq, about the Attorney General firings, and about the Libby pardoning. The truth and only the truth will set us free.

Bring the Troops Home Now

2007-07-06T09:27:00.000-04:00

President Bush and the Republicans led us into Iraq. Now is the time for for those same leaders to end the occupation, and bring our troops home safely. President Bush’s current policy, that many in Congress have continued to support keeps our troops in harms way on the battlefields of Iraq. Americans are dying on a daily basis while Congress twiddles its collective thumbs. We here in America can no longer continue to stand by leaders who support this mismanaged war.

Congress has voted time and time again to continue the occupation. The amounts of money wasted to date are nothing short of staggering. It is time to end the losses of both money and lives. To that end I urge our Senators and Congressmen to cease their support of the occupation and to vote only for those bills which contain withdrawal plans which include a definite timeline for ending the American occupation. I urge all of Congress to join the majority of Americans who today stand in opposition to the war. We deserve politicians who represent both our interests and our ideas. Continuing support of the occupation of Iraq is no longer acceptable. The time has come for real change.

Let the message ring out loud and clear. The only way to really support the troops is to bring them home alive. We have no more children to lose to this illegal and immoral occupation. Bring them home now.

No Good News From Iraq

2007-07-01T18:13:00.000-04:00

As American commanders and officials of the administration continue to tout success in the ongoing pacification of Iraq, the numbers show a very different picture altogether. The past three months brought the greatest loss of American lives of any similar period since the initial invasion. The latest poll taken in Iraq shows that 57 percent of Iraqis believe life is no better since the invasion, and may be even worse. Nearly 60 percent believe it will remain the same or get worse five years from now. By what measure can the occupation be called a success?

The American people deserve real answers to the hard questions concerning Iraq. Continuing assurances of “success” are not enough. When will there be support for those assurances? How much longer must we wait to see any progress being made. We hear on a near daily basis of increasing violence in spite of increased numbers of Americans. We need real evidence of progress based on facts or we need to withdraw from Iraq posthaste.

Too Many Are Dying for Progress in Iraq

2007-06-21T10:42:00.001-04:00

The months of April, May, and June this year have been especially deadly in Iraq. On average more than three Americans died on each day in those months. In just two days this week 14 Americans died. All in the name of progress according to the administration. Even the fabled Green Zone is coming under increasing numbers of mortar attacks. The single most protected zone in the entire country can no longer be counted upon to be a safe place for American diplomats and workers.

How much farther must this situation deteriorate before our government begins to recognize the failure. “Progress is being made” is the continuing slogan of the Bush administration and yet the facts belie the words. When will America awaken and demand truth for a change in place of fine words with no substance? We have lost too many children and spent too much money. The time to withdraw from Iraq is now. We as a country cannot afford to spend more lives and more dollars in this failing cause.

More Bad News From Iraq

2007-06-19T11:42:00.001-04:00

Now at a time when we in America need some good news comes more distressing news from Iraq. Bad enough is the rating of Iraq as number two on the list of failing countries around the world. Now comes the expert opinion that Iraq is now the number 1 training ground for Jihadists. That is to say, with the American presence and the collapse of most governmental services, Iraq is now the destination of choice for terrorist trainees from may other countries. The Iraqi resistance is large enough inside the country that fighters from outside are no longer needed. Thus the training they receive in Iraq may be exported to their home country or to other places around the world.

The administration continues to say we are making progress in Iraq. What kind of progress can this be when a country is failing as a nation-state and is becoming a training ground for future terrorist acts? Is this what America invaded Iraq to accomplish? What about the War on Terror? How can that be won when we are providing the training ground for more warriors?

America must take a real stand in world affairs. This may start with full and complete withdrawal of all American forces from Iraq. Then and only then does real diplomacy and economic aid aimed at restoring the infrastructure of Iraq have any chance of success. Time is wasting. The longer we stay in Iraq the worse the conditions become and the lower the chance of real success in reversing the damage done.

Accepted for publication in the local newspaper, June 19, 2007.

Another Decade in Iraq?????

2007-06-18T11:32:00.001-04:00

General David Petraeus, the commanding officer of American forces in Iraq, is now suggesting American forces will be needed in Iraq for at least a decade for continued counter-unsurgency activity. How many Americans can we expect to lost during that time? The first four years saw losses of more than 800 per year. Are we, the American people, expected to give up another 8000 soldiers to hold a position in Iraq?

Why can our government leaders see the fallacy of continuing the occupation of Iraq. By almost any measure the occupation is failing. What must happen to bring new resolve and a different course? When will our troops be withdrawn once and for all? When will the politicians in Washington begin to listen to the will of the American people and end the fiasco that continues to be Iraq? Another decade? Let us all hope not.

More Children Killed by Coalition Forces in Afghanistan

2007-06-18T10:57:00.000-04:00

While the news is filled with reports from Iraq and the death tolls there, news from Afghanistan is beginning to be nearly as bad. Recent reports of an attack on suspected al-Quaida militants by coalition forces did manage to kill seven children without any apparent damage to the insurgents. How much longer will we as Americans continue to support this sort of action in our names? How many innocent women and children must die before we recognize the futility of our actions in both Iraq and Afghanistan?

One could argue that we are fighting a war on terror. In that instance the facts show an opposite reaction. Terrorist attacks are on the rise throughout the world. Would we not be better as a nation and as a leader of the world acting to benefit world economics and undermining the terrorist base? Our ongoing military presence around the world offers too many convenient targets for terrorist organizations. The time has come to bring our troops home and to invest in our own nation. We can offer economic and infrastructure support around the world without being an aggressor any longer. There are no more children left to lose.

How Much is a Human Life Worth?

2007-06-18T10:43:00.000-04:00

How does one measure the value of a human life? Can any measure of dollars and cents be accurate? According to recent reports the American government is offering as much as $2500 for the death of an Iraqi civilian as the result of coalition activity (the so-called collateral damage of war time). How much lower must our activities reach before we as a nation begin to reject the ongoing occupation of Iraq? How many lives must be bought with what has the appearance of “blood money?”

And not only are Iraqis dying, but Americans are dying daily in Iraq. How many more American lives must be sacrificed before and end to the fight is called? How many lives must be paid in this apparently losing war? In spite of all the glowing reports from the administration, the facts seem to show the occupation is failing on nearly every count. American and Iraqi death tolls are rising at near record rates. The intensity of insurgent attacks is on the rise. American death rates as compared to injury rates are rising. Basic infrastructure services such as electricity, food, and sewage are at the worst rates of all time.

The time has come to put an end to the American occupation of Iraq. Talk about a permanent occupation should be ended. The longer the American presence remains in the country, the higher will be the toll. Congress should act today to end the war and to withdraw our troops. We have no more children to lose.

Bloody May

2007-06-03T07:27:00.000-04:00

The month of May has just ended with Memorial Day honoring our fallen troops. During the month 132 new names were added to the lists of Americans killed in Iraq making May, 2007, the third most deadly month since the invasion began. In spite of all the talk about progress and how the surge is working, Americans continue to die at increasing rates. In addition Iraqi deaths are reaching all time highs. When will this ever end? How many more must die before reason intervenes and our troops are brought home?

As we continue day by day to honor our fallen, let us remember the one best way to honor their memories is by bringing a lasting peace. We need diplomatic efforts. We need an end to the increasing military presence and the threat of more force. We cannot bring peace so long as we as a country continue to use might instead of persuasion.

The Occupation of Iraq Must End

2007-05-24T14:26:00.000-04:00

Three thousand, four hundred, and thirty four caskets have come home as of today as a result of the American invasion and subsequent occupation of Iraq. And still the administration continues to pursue the same failing course. More American troops. More American casualties. More American money spent. And to what end? Is there a stable government in place in Iraq? No. Is there more oil available for export from Iraq? No. Is the infrastructure of the country on the mend? No, on the contrary, much of the infrastructure has been destroyed in the ongoing war.

This must end. America cannot afford the costs in either lives or dollars let alone the diminishing world support for our actions. The new British Prime Minister promises to withdraw British troops from Iraq in a few short months. Why cannot the Bush administration do the same for Americans? Why must we continue to see the daily death counts of Americans? When will Congress see the light and end funding for the war to force a withdrawal?

Too Much Loss in Iraq

2007-05-24T14:17:00.001-04:00

Congress has once again bowed to pressure from the Administration and allowed a large funding bill for the Iraq occupation to pass to the President. Americans in ever larger numbers are opposed to the war. We have lost more than 3400 of our soldiers. The cost is already half a trillion dollars in four year. How much more are we willing to spend before an end is called?

The election of 2006 demonstrated a desire by the American people to see a change in the direction Congress and the Administration are taking. We need to see that change become a reality. Write, call, e-mail, or Fax your Congressional representatives today. Let them know we are restless and unwilling to stay the course any longer. Our country is at stake. If we fail to correct this failing course we stand to lose all the country has meant for 200 years.

IED's Increase In Deadly Effect

2007-05-23T12:44:00.001-04:00

The number of Americans killed by improvised explosive devices has nearly doubled this Spring. Almost 70% of the deaths among American forces this year were the result of such homemade devices. Improvised explosive devices (IED’s) vary from the simple (perhaps a hand grenade in a soda can) to the very sophisticated (such as multiple separate devices timed to explode simultaneously). The increased threat posed by these devices is the result of more than four years experience for the insurgency. Practice is making perfect in terms of deadly attacks while the American forces continue to stand out as targets for the practice.

We must bring out troops home and must do so very soon if we are to have any chance of ending the bloodshed. Iraq is on the verge of civil war. Our troops are so far unable to even slow the violence within the country at the same time more Americans are dying on a daily basis. Congress needs to take a stand against the President and his misguided course. We need real leadership to bring diplomatic efforts to bear. Military force has been failing for some time with no apparent success on the horizon.

Speak Up and Speak Out

2007-05-23T12:30:00.001-04:00

The death toll in Iraq continues to rise day by day. Increasing numbers of Americans are dying as the news reports plans to increase the American force to more than 200,000 by year’s end. This increase is apparently in the planning stages and will include both extended terms for troops on the ground already and new combat units.

When will this ever end? How many Americans must die before the administration and the Congress recognize the futility of the occupation. The American invasion has brought nothing but increasing instability and decreasing functionality to Iraq. Public services are near an all time low. Oil production is a fraction of the pre-invasion levels. By any measure other than the deposing of Saddam Hussein the invasion and occupation has been a near complete failure.

Today we have the power to reverse this course but only if our voices are heard. Write or call your Congressional representatives. Join the various peace protests around the area. Write to your local newspaper editor. We, the people, own our future only if we take a stand and act to make the course the preferred one. Sitting silently by is no longer an acceptable course of action. We must speak up and speak out lest we lose our future entirely.

We Need A Balance of Power In Government Today

2007-05-23T12:17:00.001-04:00

As if affairs in the world were not serious enough already, now comes the news that President Bush has authorized covert activity directed against Iran. For months we have heard increasing vehemence in the rhetoric directed toward the government of Iran. Diplomacy has all but been ruled out by the administration. And now the defacto war is escalating without any chance for the American public or Congress to have input into the decision. The President today continues to assume near dictatorial powers in spite of a Constitution that guarantees separation of powers. Only the Congress has the power to declare war. No such declaration has been made for either Iraq or Iran.

The time has come for this situation to change. According to law we have a democracy with three equal and separate branches of government. The continued erosion of this coequal arrangement is endangering our country. The Congress must take back its rightful place as a power in and of itself. We, the voting public, need to let our Congressional representatives know our expectations. We have every right to expect a responsible government, but we will get no such until and unless we each and every one hold our representatives accountable. We can no longer afford a country led by a President with only one course in mind.

End the Occupation of Iraq Today

2007-05-22T14:38:00.000-04:00

The US death toll in Iraq is rising day by day. The first six months of this year is the most deadly six month period since the start of the invasion. The administration continues to tell America that the surge is working and that progress is being made. When do we get to see that progress? How do we define progress?

Many hard questions are not being answered by either the administration or the Congress. We see increasing amounts of money being spent while the death toll grows. Iraq is a broken country as a direct result of the American invasion. Civil war has broken out in most of the country. The American presence continues to aggravate the situation and offers more opportunity for the opposition forces to target our forces. No good is being served by the continued occupation of Iraq.

Congress continues to pass funding bills that allow the administration to pursue the occupation. We voters must pressure our Congressional representatives to end this futile course. Write or call today to tell Senators Biden and Carper along with Representative Castle to vote for an end to the war. Only if they begin to hear the opposition voices do we have any hope of stopping the ongoing bloodshed. We must end this war and the sooner the better.

Attack on Iran Suggested by Bolton

2007-05-16T17:13:00.001-04:00

The sabers continue to rattle over confrontation with Iran. John Bolton, former US Ambassador to the UN has been quoted as saying an attack on Iran is necessary. The Bush administration seems to know no bounds in the use of violence as opposed to diplomatic efforts to resolve conflict. How much longer can the American public support such a misguided course?

The war in Iraq is failing according to all reasonable measures. The country has been destroyed in large measure. The economy is in shambles. Public utilities including electricity, drinking water, sewers, and garbage collection are failing. And yet administration officials and past officials want to start another military confrontation with Iran. Can they not see the handwriting on the wall?

We must all work to end the continued escalation of violence. Diplomacy and the withdrawal of our troops from the Middle East should be tried. Such efforts were overridden in the haste to invade Iraq. We must not let the administration make a similar mistake in Iran.

Bring Accountability Back to Government

2007-05-07T10:41:00.001-04:00

Somehow our society seems to have lost large measures of accountability, the obligation to be responsible for one’s actions. Today we see all around us people blaming others for their actions. People blame their parents. Corporate officers blame each other and the employees for company failures. Our administration puts the blame on any but themselves for the failures in Iraq.

How much longer are we going to sit still and let this happen? When will we voters awaken and hold our elected officials accountable for their actions? We see stirrings even here in our own state, but at the national level we voters seem to be forgotten. The time is here to write, call, and otherwise contact our Congressional representatives. We need to hold them accountable for their votes in Congress. We need to hold them accountable for their words at campaign and other public appearances. Without accountability in government we are in danger of being left without representation.

How Many More Must Die?

2007-05-06T07:57:00.000-04:00

In the month of April 104 Americans died as a result of wounds suffered in combat in Iraq. How many more must die before our President and our politicians come to realize this war is long lost? Congress continues to debate if or not to set a date for withdrawal. Every day that debate continues more soldiers die. The President vetoes a funding bill that would continue the war for months to come. And still the soldiers die on a daily basis.

Where is the outrage at this ongoing mess? When will the American public stand up and voice their anger? When will the dying end? We must not let our sons and daughters continue to lose their lives in a lost effort. We have no more children to lose.

We, the people, are responsible

2007-04-26T11:32:00.001-04:00

We, the people, are responsible. We, the people, continue to allow our troops to occupy Iraq. To that end we are each and every one responsible. We are responsible for every American and Iraqi death. How much more will we allow before we insist the course be changed?

The administration has begun to tout the decrease in violence in Baghdad as a result of the surge in troop numbers. The reduction is only in numbers of people murdered and fails to take into account the increased deaths from car bombs. The use of such twisted facts and half-truths has become an every day occurrence. We, the people, are responsible for accepting these lies as fact.

We, the people, must rise up against the continued violence incited by our presence in Iraq. We, the people, must demand truth from our government to replace the overt lies and the partial truths we get every day. We, the people, must take responsibility for our country and work to get back on course. We, the people, are in charge of our future only if we take action to return our country to its former greatness.

Time for Action--Use VPI Tragedy for Base

2007-04-17T12:53:00.000-04:00

America suffered a terrible tragedy this week with the murder of 32 people at VPI. The media frenzy is on. We are treated to constant reminders of just how and when and where so many died. At the same time the tragedy that is Iraq today continues. Every day more Iraqis die a violent death than were killed in Virginia this week. Every death in either country is a senseless loss.

What is America to do? How can we take a tragedy in our own country and make something positive from the event? I suggest we each and every one put ourselves for just a moment into the mind of the parents who just lost a child. Think how very sad their life just became. How every will those parents deal with this loss? Be angry. Be very angry.

Now turn that anger to a positive note. Think of the Iraqi mothers and fathers losing their children each and every day. Be angry. Be very angry. Turn that anger toward the administration that insists we stay the course in Iraq. If we, the American people, insist on an end to the occupation, the needless deaths will no longer be our responsibility. Until the time American troops are withdrawn from Iraq every death, every family broken is a burden put directly on our shoulders.

VPI and Iraq

2007-04-17T11:27:00.000-04:00

This week saw the murder of 32 innocent people at Virginia Polytechnic Institute. The tragedy is unfathomable. America has too often suffered just such an event. Our collective sympathy is due the parents and friends of the dead and wounded. We must stand in their support as the healing begins.

And yet in the midst of our suffering and mourning we should not lose sight of the continued events in Iraq. The Iraqis suffer a loss equal or greater than the loss at VPI every single day. How can we turn the American tragedy into a lesson for all the world to see? We suffer today in our country and we tend to overlook the suffering around the world. What can we do as a country to resolve this problem?

We can offer our sympathy to the Iraqis just as we offer our sympathy to each other in our time of tragedy. What about more support? How many Americans are willing to put themselves into the mindset of an Iraqi mother or father who just lost a son or a daughter? How would we react if we suffered these losses each and every day in our own country? We as a nation must ponder this issue lest we lose sight of the ideals upon which our country was founded.

Baghdad Fell Four Years Ago

2007-04-09T16:47:00.000-04:00

The fall of Baghdad was celebrated just four short years ago. What do we have to show for that victory today? More than 3200 American soldiers have died. The Iraqis suffer daily without electricity, plumbing, or drinking water. School attendance is far down compared to pre-Saddam days. Uncounted thousands of Iraqis are either dead or have fled the country. Civil war seems to be well on the way.

How much more must we lose before we recognize this failing course? Americans are dying daily. Billions of dollars are being spent. The time has come to withdraw. We have no more troops to waste. The money being spent in Iraq would be put to better use here at home.

Contact your Senators and Representatives. Tell them the time is now to end the occupation and bring our troops home. Tell them we wish to spend no more money other than that required for withdrawal. Together we can make a difference. Together we can change this failing course.

NO MORE MONEY for Iraq

2007-04-01T18:24:00.001-04:00

Contrary to administration claims, the situation in Iraq shows no real sign of lessening tensions or greater security in spite of a massive US push into Baghdad. In fact the death rate for Iraqis is some 15% higher last month than before the surge began. American casualties remain relatively stable over the first three months of 2007 at more than 80 killed per month. When we will ever see any real progress? Is progress even possible?

The invasion and subsequent occupation of Iraq were illegal acts that have cost the US more money and more lost lives than we can ever afford. The time has come to protest loudly and end this fiasco. The Congress is home for Easter recess. We have a chance to let our Congressional representatives know how we feel before the next spending bill can be finalized. Another $100 billion is requested. I suggest we just say “NO.” No more funding for this occupation except that necessary to bring our troops home. No continuing monies for the occupation of Iraq whatsoever.

Tell Your Congress Critters--NO MORE WAR

2007-04-01T18:12:00.000-04:00

Congress has begun their Easter vacation without finalizing a spending bill for supplemental funding in Iraq. As might be expected the Pentagon has begun the scare tactics with warnings about spending delays affecting troop rotations, training, and readiness. This sort of propaganda just won't fly in the face of the facts. The pentagon has in its budget plenty of money to continue any activity already planned until well into May or even later. No expected delay in the current funding is going to affect any troops on the ground.

The issue at hand is benchmarks within the bill requiring signs of progress in Iraq in order for the American occupation to continue. Finally we are seeing signs of a Congress listening to the will of the people. The time has come to end the American occupation of Iraq. If a supplemental spending bill must be passed, then limits on future monies are appropriate. Our troops should not stay one day longer in Iraq than required for withdrawal, but that seems not to be the will of the Congress and certainly is not the will of the President.

Perhaps if every eligible voter rose in opposition to ongoing funding of the occupation we'd see an end to the loss of American lives. The time to tell your Congressional representatives your opinion is here. They are home for the Easter recess. There is no better time than the present to tell them NO MORE WAR.

WH Threatens Spending Bill Veto

2007-04-01T17:57:00.001-04:00

The rhetoric from the White House is mounting with accusations of "failing to fund the troops" aimed at Congressional Democrats. Congress has in fact voted to spend over a hundred billion dollars on the war. That appropriation includes modern body armor, better armored vehicles, and improved health care for returning veterans. To date the President has been given every cent he asked for, and then some. Bush's threatened veto of the current spending bill based on benchmarks for progress in Iraq is one more example of poor judgment on his part.

The President should heed the advice of his own Secretary of Defense. Robert Gates says benchmarks may actually encourage the Iraqi government to take more responsibility for its own defense. The President's approach is to continue the current failed policy. Why not give an alternative a chance to work? Congress has a clear mandate from the voters for just such a change of direction in Iraq. The President should not be insisting on yet another blank check, and support that alternative.

Iraq a "Remarkable Achievement"--Dick Cheney

2007-02-26T13:50:00.001-05:00

On a recent world tour Vice-President Cheney championed the Iraq War as a “remarkable achievement.” Such positive talk flies in the face of the facts on the ground. Americans and Iraqis are dying daily. Children are not being allowed to attend school in those places where schools even exist. Power shortages and outages are a daily affair. Gasoline shortages are common. Oil production is down compared to pre-invasion times. Yes, the achievement is remarkable if one considers abject failure the goal.

There is no military solution to be had in Iraq. The facts of the invasion show only a failing course. We must bring our troops home and the sooner the better. The longer we continue to occupy Iraq the higher will be the costs. We as a country should no longer support this level “achievement.”

Bring the Troops Home Alive

2007-02-26T13:40:00.000-05:00

Current costs for the occupation of Iraq exceed $200 million per day. For that expenditure we get increasing numbers of American dead, increasing numbers of American wounded, a country on the brink of civil war, and an ongoing burden with no end in sight. In Iraq fewer than 30 percent of children attended school in 2006 compared to nearly 100 percent attendance before the invasion. Oil production is reduced from pre-invasion levels. As many as 3000 Iraqis are leaving the country daily leading to a new refugee crisis in the world. Is the ongoing occupation really worth our expense? Are we getting any piece of real value for our investment?

In spite of repeated assurances to the contrary, the occupation is not going well. By all measures our occupation of Iraq is failing. The people wish our forces would withdraw. America can ill afford the costs in both lives and dollars. The time has come to recognize our failure and bring our troops home. There is no greater way to support the troops than to have them brought home alive and well.

Iraq is Breeding Terrorism

2007-02-26T13:25:00.000-05:00

President Bush has said on more than one occasion, “We are fighting the terrorists over there to prevent them from coming over here.” And yet the government has offered no direct evidence that any such prevention is occurring. Are we in fact safer today as a result of the invasion of Iraq?

According to a recent study by faculty members of the NY University School of Law here, the incidence of terrorist attacks outside Iraq and Afghanistan have increased more than 35 percent since the day of the invasion of Iraq. If the attacks inside Iraq and Afghanistan are added to the total, the increase is near seven fold (635 percent). The evidence is clear. The invasion of Iraq it would seem increased the likelihood of a terrorist attack if the data are to be believed.

As the evidence of failure in Iraq mounts we see increasing evidence of an overall failure of the war on terror. The time has come to insist upon a new course. We have no more lives to lose. Congress must insist on withdrawal from Iraq before any more of our troops die. Then we can seek a new approach to countering terrorism.

The Surge is Already Failing

2007-02-14T13:06:00.000-05:00

The surge is on. More American troops are being sent to Iraq every day. Accompanying the increased numbers of troops is increasing violence within the country. American deaths are occurring at a rate of more than three per day. Bomb attacks against civilians are being reported at an ever-increasing rate. More helicopters have been downed by enemy fire in the first two months of this year than in any other period in the entire war.

How much longer are we, the American public, willing to stand for this deteriorating condition. Why should we believe any surge of troop numbers will lead to a better situation in Iraq. Each previous increase in the American presence has led to more American deaths. We see the same occurrence so far this month. We must insist on an immediate end to this fiasco. We have no more children to lose. Call and write your Congressmen. Let them know we will no longer stand for this ongoing misery. The sooner withdrawal of all American troops is accomplished the better for all concerned.

Disastrous Consequences in Iraq

2007-02-14T12:49:00.001-05:00

In a recent news conference President Bush warns of “disastrous consequences” in Iraq if the American military is withdrawn. How much more of a disaster could there be? Civil war is underway between Sunni and Shia elements in most parts of the country. School attendance is down to 30% or so as parents fear letting children leave the house. Electricity and oil production are each well below pre-invasion levels. The Iraqi economy is in shambles with unemployment running at all time highs.

Disastrous consequences indeed. The consequence of our invasion and ongoing occupation are disastrous for sure. How much worse could the situation be made if American forces were withdrawn? To adhere to a continuing failing course is madness. The consequences of maintaining our occupation of Iraq are well beyond disastrous. The time for full and rapid American withdrawal is now no matter what the President may believe.

Is Iraq Worth the Costs?

2007-02-14T12:48:00.001-05:00

Was it worth the cost? Each of us should be asking ourselves that question when we think about Iraq and all we have spent in that invasion and occupation. More than 3000 soldiers are dead. Untold billions of dollars have been spent. The monetary cost continues to escalate at a rate of many millions per day. Our military is stretched to the breaking point. We have given up much of our personal freedom in this country to a “War on Terror.” Was Iraq worth this cost to America? What have we gained to make the costs worthwhile? Are we more safe in our world today than four years ago when the invasion of Iraq began?

I would argue there is little or no merit whatsoever to either the invasion or the subsequent occupation of Iraq. We have gained no new oil reserves. Saddam Hussein no longer rules, but he had become a toothless tiger by the time of his downfall. The longer we maintain a force in Iraq, the higher the costs rise. The time has come to withdraw. The time has come to bring our troops home before any more are lost. Otherwise the cost will be far too high.

The State of Disunion Address Sickens Me

2007-01-24T09:03:00.000-05:00

Rare indeed is the time when President Bush and I agree. Today I am angry as can be. “This is not the fight we entered in Iraq,” says he in the State of the Union Address. And right he is. There was no fight in Iraq when we entered. We were the schoolyard bully who attacked a country without provocation. We started this war. We destroyed the economy and the infrastructure of Iraq. We Americans lost the respect of the world thanks to our illegal actions in Iraq. And to hear the President make our actions into something of which to be proud just sickens me.

We as a country must change course. The President no longer speaks for a majority of Americans. His course continues to fail in Iraq while we pour money and lives into the effort. The time is here for Congress to take a real stand and follow the will of the American people. We cannot afford either more money or more lives in the lost cause that is Iraq.

Reconstruction Failing in Iraq

2007-01-16T14:35:00.000-05:00

In recent letters to the editor readers suggested the media should report all the positive events in Iraq as well as the negative ones. Positive aspects are difficult to find in a country where recent estimates put the number of children in school as low as 35% of eligible children. In Baghdad, the capital city of Iraq, electricity supplies remain lower than before the invasion. Surveys put availability of clean water as low as 53% across the country. Untreated sewage continues to pollute the Euphrates River due to malfunctioning treatment plants and ruptured sewer lines.

While one might argue there are improvements being made, the progress to date has been small. Most of the current reconstruction effort is the result of damage done by American destruction of the infrastructure. As much as half the funds allocated for reconstruction are consumed by overhead costs. Reconstruction efforts are hampered in large measure by the lack of stability in the region.

The solution to these issues is not at all obvious. A military presence seems to aggravate rather than to resolve the issues of a failing country. Perhaps the solution is removal of the American military and the provision of support so the Iraqis can rebuild their own country. We Americans seem to be spending inordinate amounts of money for a failing enterprise.

The Morass In Iraq Continues

2007-01-16T13:33:00.001-05:00

After four years of fighting in Iraq, the President proposes sending an additional 20,000 troops to secure Baghdad. Just to secure Baghdad and to offer nothing more. How far we have come in this morass. A military victory in Iraq must be out of our reach when the major goal of increased troop numbers is increased security in a single city.

The blame increasingly is laid on the Iraqis. They are said to not be doing enough. They are blamed in every way possible for the failure of the American occupation. No one bothers to look at the destruction and violence brought to Iraq by the American forces. We are hated as invaders by the Iraqi people as a whole. A majority of Iraqis today wish the Americans to leave the country. How can anyone expect support in terms of military involvement when the force to be supported is so despised.

The only solution is military withdrawal. Then and only then can diplomatic efforts be instituted to allow the Iraqi people a chance to resolve their internal problems. With adequate support in rebuilding a damaged infrastructure, peace may at least have a chance. With the continuing occupation the only chance is for increasing violence.

Urge Biden to Oppose Funding for Iraq

2007-01-07T17:22:00.001-05:00

Congress is about to be presented with another supplemental request for military spending. Rumor has this request in the $100 billion range. At the rate of $800million per day in Iraq, that is only about a 4 month supply for the Pentagon. When will this process end? Senator Biden said recently he is opposed to any troop surge in Iraq and yet at every turn he votes to support the increasing expenditures for the occupation of Iraq. As a longtime member of the Senate Biden must know the President acting as commander-in-chief controls troop deployments. The Congress is responsible for appropriating monies to fund the military.

With the country on an increasing debt course the responsible position is not only opposition to the troop surge, but opposition to any future supplemental requests for Iraq. Senator Biden in the past has voted in favor of every supplemental spending bill to reach the Senate floor. Now is the time for a change. Beyond a simple message of opposition we must ask that Senator Biden vote against any further expenditures for Iraq beyond what is necessary for an American withdrawal. Senatory Bidens words are worthless without supportive action.

Biden Opposes Troop Surge at Last

2007-01-07T16:48:00.000-05:00

In an Sunday perspective article, Senator Biden adds his voice to the growing clamor against a troop surge in Iraq. Such opposition from the Senator has been a long time coming, but is indeed a welcome move. The current situation in Iraq is untenable. Any increase in American troop strength is likely to only provide additional American targets and increase the numbers of our dead troops rather than bringing any real solution to the problem.

The real solution to Iraq lies in American withdrawal. Many have said the Iraqis must find their own political settlement. Such a settlement is near impossible with an American presence in the country. Senator Biden was careful to avoid suggesting any such solution in Iraq. He was also careful to avoid suggesting the Senate stop funding the war. Only by ending the money support for the occupation can the Senate hope to stop any troop surge proposed by the President. Senator Biden must strengthen his stand and act to oppose any further monies for the Iraq occupation. Otherwise words remain cheap indeed.

Time to Protest the War Expenses

2006-12-21T10:17:00.000-05:00

President Bush continues to call for increased American military presence in Iraq and for a larger American military overall. These calls continue in spite of contrary advice and a recent election in which voters repudiated the ongoing occupation of Iraq. The President’s stubborn resistance to following advice from others is wearing thin. As a result of his failure to change our course in Iraq, increasing numbers of Americans are dying on a daily. Nearly 3000 have paid with their lives for his intransigence.

The time has come for the American public and member of Congress to stand united in opposition. The country cannot afford the ongoing losses in terms of money, lives, international repute, and failure to care for our own at home. With the holiday season in full bloom we should all make a part of our celebration the writing of a letter or the making of a telephone call to register our protest with our Congressional representatives. So long as we, the public, remain quiet nothing will change. Our voices must be heard loud and clear lest we lose all our country has come to stand for in the last 200 years.

Iraq Costs Rising For a Failing Course

2006-12-21T09:48:00.000-05:00

Recent news reports suggest the Pentagon is coming to Congress once again. This time the request will be for an additional $100 billion to continue the occupation of Iraq. The current bill is approximately $800 million per day. At the same time we are spending enormous sums to continue the war effort all indications show a failing course for our investment. Attacks against Americans are at an all time high. Americans are dying at a rate of about 3 per day so far in December. At the same time we have thousands of people in this country without adequate food or housing or both. We have hundreds of thousands without adequate medical care for lack of insurance. We have elderly people struggling to pay for necessary medication thanks to a donut hole in the pharmacy bill.

Given the costs of the war we can no longer afford to continue this course. We as a country need to redirect our resources toward saving our country and end this occupation and ongoing destruction of Iraq. The cost of this occupation will be borne by many future generations lest we reverse course and reverse soon. The new Congress will be seated in January. We every one must let our elected officials know we oppose any additional funds for Iraq beyond what is necessary to bring our troops home. We are squandering resources on a failing cause in Iraq that could be much better invested at home.

Free Rosemary Jackowski NOW!!!

2006-12-19T12:01:00.000-05:00

Rosemary Jackowski is an advocacy journalist living in Vermont. On March 20, 2003, she was arrested for participating in a peaceful protest against the war in Iraq. Ms. Jackowski was found guilty of disorderly conduct by a local jury. The original conviction was overturned by the Vermont Supreme court. Now the local district attorney wishes to retry Ms. Jackowski. Ms. Jackowski deserves to be recognized as a patriotic human acting on her first amendment rights of free speech. In addition she needs to be seen as a person whose rights are being abrogated by double jeopardy.

This issue is one that may affect any one of us at any given time. We, the American people, as a whole need to take a stand not only in support of Ms. Jackowski as a person but a stand against any future legal action of this sort. Write your local district attorney, your local politicians, your governor, and your Congressional representatives. Tell them of the miscarriage of justice being perpetrated in Vermont and ask them not only to intervene in this case but to work to prevent any such occurrence in their jursidiction. If we fail to stand up and speak out when we see injustice done we stand to lose more of our rights in the future.

Too Much Spent in Iraq Already

2006-12-13T13:32:00.001-05:00

The $450 billion spent so far in military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan is not the end just yet. The administration is preparing another supplemental request that is rumored to be as much as $160-170 billion. At the same time increasing amounts of money are being spent, increasing number of Americans are dying in the cause. We as a country can no longer afford either of these expenses.

Congress controls the purse strings. The President has control of military forces. The time has come for the Congress to allocate funds for bringing our troops home. No more money should be allotted to the ongoing occupation of Iraq. Our country will be in deep debt for generations at the current rate of expense and we have no more children to lose.

No Civilian Draft for Iraq!

2006-12-11T16:49:00.000-05:00

The Iraq Study Group finished its work with a series of recommendations. Among those suggestions was the drafting of the government’s civilian employees to serve in Iraq. A call for volunteers found few takers among qualified and needed government employees. Now the Pentagon is reported to be studying how essential emergency employees are assigned.

Even though this issue has seen little or no mention in the press, the situation is very real for government employees and their families. The risk of working in Iraq is so large that few are willing to volunteer for the duty. Since this is an occupation of choice and not necessity no drafting of any civilian should be allowed. Our legislators need to be made aware of this recommendation and should be active in eliminating the possibility. We have lost enough citizens already. We have no more to lose.

Time for Congress to Budget and Take a Stand

2006-12-10T21:28:00.001-05:00

President Bush remains in the seat of power as commander-in-chief of American military forces. In that position he has always kept his own counsel and ignored the advice of outsiders and of his own advisors. Once again we see the likelihood that recommendations from the Iraq Study Group, a high profile, bipartisan group, will be ignored or at least parts will be picked over and chosen to support the President's current course. This must change and needs to change today.

Congress must take control and set the course for this war by managing the funds available. The current course is losing American lives and squandering American money at a rate that is far too high to be sustained. Future generations will be paying the debt generated by this war for many years. Congress needs to take responsibility for budgeting war expenses. If there is not enough money for war and peace, I suggest we choose peace as the best course.

The Decider Needs Congressional Control

2006-12-10T18:04:00.000-05:00

The Iraq Study Group has completed its work and submitted a proposal for ending the fiasco that the Iraq occupation has become. President Bush has already declined some of the major proposals. As the News Journal reported today, he is the “Decider.” The President decides to ignore the advice of appointed advisors, the Congress, the courts, and now his high profile Study Group. When will the Decider decide to take good advice and get off this course of destruction the country is following today?

The Congress has the responsibility to appropriate monies to fund the Decider's poor decisions. If our elected officials would accept their responsibility and do right by the electorate President Bush's control of the country would be lessened. Then maybe the Decider would decide to cooperate with Congress for a change.

Congress Must Act to End the Iraq Occupation

2006-12-07T17:18:00.000-05:00

As the situation in Iraq deteriorates on a daily basis our Congress is sitting on its collective hands and doing nothing to change the course. The American presence in Iraq inflames tensions both in and out of Iraq. Even moderate Islamists are becoming increasingly anti-American as a result of our continuing destruction of Iraq. In the meantime the President continues to ignore advice from nearly every sector. Various committees and study groups have recommended diplomatic efforts including approaches to Syria and Iran. Our illustrious President can’t see fit to try any such. So our forces continue to occupy small areas of Iraq and we continue to see death notices in the newspaper as our soldiers are killed on a near daily basis.

There appears to be no real solution that includes our staying in Iraq as a military presence. Withdrawal seems to be the most rational and sensible course available. Why then can our President and our Congress not see this? When will our leaders begin to lead in the ways the voting public most approves? While we continue to squander large amounts of money in Iraq our country is failing to support its own people.

We need to bring the troops home and begin to invest in our own country lest we lose more than we can afford. Congress must get into action and stop funding this illegal and immoral occupation. The sooner we see action to end the occupation the better for all concerned.

Iraq is a Losing Quagmire

2006-12-07T16:55:00.000-05:00

The Iraq Study Group released its long-awaited report this week. The report contains no big surprises as the committee recommends increasing support for Iraqi forces while withdrawing American forces over time. The report supports the President’s position of staying the course until the Iraqi government can sustain the country. At the same time the report criticizes the Pentagon for underreporting the level of violence in Iraq.

Just how many more expensive committees must we sustain before someone has the courage to stand up and tell the truth about Iraq and the situation on the ground over there? This most recent group traveled to Iraq to spend three days in their armored limousines and in the Green Zone. What sort of real information can be garnered that way?

Reports from the ground inside Iraq show a spiral of increasing violence and decreasing public service. Basic services such as electricity, clean water, and sewage treatment are in short supply these days. The country is approaching total destruction on a daily basis.

We must end the occupation to allow humanitarian aid and support in non-military ways. This along with diplomatic efforts with Iran and Syria is the only reasonable way to resolve this crisis. Our Congress members must pressure the administration to change the course. Otherwise we stand to lose even more than we have lost to date.

Death Hits Too Close To Home Today

2006-12-07T08:26:00.000-05:00

One more time the ongoing occupation of Iraq has struck home. Once again a Delaware soldier has been killed. To the family and friends of Sgt. Keith Fiscus I extend my heartfelt sympathy. The loss of a dear friend and loved one is a terrible event for all who must suffer such.

Just how many more must die before we take action to bring our troops home? We have no more children to lose. The situation in Iraq is spiraling out of control. Increasing numbers of our troops are being killed on a near daily basis. Congress continues to twiddle its collective thumbs and take no action to end this mess. As we offer our dead the honor they so deserve, we must also protest the continuation of a war with no end so we lose no more.

War With Iran is on the Horizon

2006-12-06T17:05:00.000-05:00

The rattling of sabers continues as the White House declines any face to face talks with Iran until nuclear activity is suspended by the Iranians. Once again we see an administration bent on its own course in the face of opposition around the world. Our Congress continues to be content to just let this happen. We will soon face another unwinnable war if this course is allowed to continue. We are on a downhill slide in the morass that is the occupation of Iraq. In Afghanistan NATO forces are losing ground to the Taliban. And now our government wants to pursue yet another invasion.

When will the folk in charge of this country come to their senses and realize that diplomacy cannot be carried out at the end of a gun barrel? We need to pursue international relations to begin to solve some of the issues of the world today. The report of the Baker Commission even suggests diplomatic alternatives. The White House needs to take heed of their advisors instead of continuing to mount new threats of military force.

The Dems Are Leading the Effort to Increase the War in Iraq

2006-12-06T10:25:00.000-05:00

Now even the Democrats are getting into the Iraq act. In spite of a recent election which was a strong message against the war, Representative Reyes, soon to be Chairman of the House Intelligence Committee, is calling for increasing American troop numbers in Iraq. This is unconscionable. The voters have spoken loud and clear. The time has come for our Congress to pay attention. The ongoing expenses in Iraq let alone the deaths of our soldiers can no longer be supported.

A new defense spending request is on the horizon. We should each and every one let our Senators and our Congressman know we oppose any expenditure beyond what is necessary to bring our troops home. We cannot afford any more money or any more lives in this war. We must tell the Democrats what our votes meant. We cannot lie still and let them take the failed Republican course any longer.

End the Occupation NOW!!

2006-12-05T16:06:00.000-05:00

The weekend of December 2-3 thirteen American service members died in Iraq. This was an unusual number of deaths, but the fact highlights the increasing numbers of American dead in Iraq. With the total of American dead now over 2900 and climbing almost daily, we have no end in sight. President Bush continues to assure us we are winning the fight. That seems difficult to believe in view of the numbers of both Iraqi and American dead.

The time has come to recognize our mistake, accept our losses, honor our dead, and bring the living home. The more time our troops spend in Iraq, the more dead soldiers we will bring home. The sooner we end the occupation and bring our forces back to American soil the better.

The Morass in Iraq Continues Day by Day

2006-12-05T15:39:00.001-05:00

We are now 3 ½ years into the occupation of Iraq. The President continues to insist we will “stay the course” until final victory is achieved. How that final event is to be accomplished or defined we have not yet been told. The course to date has meant expenditures of immense amounts of money and American military deaths approaching the 3000 mark. Just how much longer can we sustain this approach.

New ideas are needed and needed soon. With a Democrat controlled Congress on the horizon we have hope for a new direction. Until that time we seem mired in a slow and agonizing slide to a final defeat. This must not be allowed to continue. The time has come for each of us to speak up and let our Congressional people know our thoughts. Unless we speak up we stand to keep on losing this war. We have no more children to lose

Iraq Just Keeps on Getting Worse

2006-11-30T15:48:00.000-05:00

News reports and various analyses of the situation in Iraq paint a worsening scenario with little or no hope on the horizon. The British have been defeated in Basra leaving the province in the control of Shiite and extremist Islamic groups. In Baghdad the police and local military forces are unable to bring even a modicum of peace to large areas of the city. The American military controls the Green Zone but most parts of the remainder of the country are out of control.

As the violence continues to escalate and the situation spirals out of control President Bush seems either unable or unwilling to accept the facts. His continued posture of “we will stay until we finish the job” is no longer acceptable. The price in American dollars and US lives is much too high. We each and every one should insist upon full and immediate withdrawal of our forces as soon as possible. Otherwise we will remain on hand to witness further escalation of violence and a worsening situation.

Civil War or Not We Must Withdraw from Iraq

2006-11-30T08:52:00.000-05:00

The ongoing occupation of Iraq continues in the face of increasing violence between Iraqi groups and increasing American deaths. In the meantime the media and the administration seem more concerned about calling the situation a “civil war” or not. The point is not if or not this is a civil war. The point is the initial invasion and the current occupation were and continue to be illegal by all standards of international law.

President Bush continues to assert his stand that we will stay the course until the deed is finished. How many more must die before our Congress and the administration recognize the futility of our staying? The longer we continue this illegal action, the more we stand to lost in the international community let alone the more of our troops will come home dead or injured. The time has come for withdrawal. The Iraqi people must be given a chance to resolve the situation in their own time and their own way. An American occupation only serves to fuel the ongoing violence.

I Am Not A Traitor!!

2006-11-30T08:43:00.000-05:00

For many months now a group of local folk have stood on the same street corner every Friday night in protest of the war in Iraq. We stand vigil in memory of those who have died and in support for those who remain in the war. We want all our children to come home alive. The usual group includes two and sometimes three of us Vietnam veterans, an Austrian woman who survived the Nazi occupation in WWII, and an assortment of other folk. We stand vigil for an hour during which the response from passersby is generally very positive indeed. Black Friday was a different event in some ways. Follow across the fold, around the bend, and come stand on the bridge for the possum’s tale of the Friday night vigil.

The group standing vigil this week was somewhat larger than usual and included one couple who brought their children along with a granddaughter. We were spread along a city block standing on an interstate overpass just where we have stood for nearly two years. Earlier on, just after the invasion of Iraq, the vigil was held at another corner, but we moved for more traffic exposure. On any given Friday night the response is generally a positive one with a majority of drivers honking their horn in support. Sometimes people yell in support and some simply wave their hands. We in turn wave in response to all who acknowledge our group.

On Black Friday traffic was notably light. We presume many people were traveling and others had a vacation from work. The response to our presence was not our usual. Of course we had a majority of positive responses from drivers, but an unusual number were yelling negatives. We were called "traitors" and "ungrateful Americans." At least one man called George Bush "a great man." Multiple uplifted middle fingers were pointed our way along with at least one closed and upraised fist gestured in an angry way. These suggestions were in addition to the usual recommendations that we "get a job" or "go back home."

For months now the number of negative responses has been small (usually less than five in an hour). This night there were about double the usual number and the invective seemed unusually strong. We were struck as a group both by the unusual numbers of negative responses in addition to the group of individuals offering such retorts. Nearly every negative rejoinder came from young men (under 30 or so and all were caucasian). Many of the rejoinders came from cars filled with such young folk. I presume most were college students from their age and manner of dress. How such a group could feel such a strong negativism none of us could understand.

What have we done wrong in this country to have our young feel and act so strongly in the face of a simple protest group? Have we failed to teach them the rights our first amendment guarantees? Do they not know that men and women of their same age are dying on a daily basis in Iraq? Were they not taught basic civility by their parents? Or do they feel somehow released from civil behavior by virtue of being in a car with their friends?

We as a group of peace activists will continue to stand in quiet protest until all current and future war involvement is ended for our country. Until that time we will continue to act in what we consider to be the best interest of our country. We are every one very conscious of our rights and privileges as Americans and for that we are very grateful. We consider ourselves to be patriots of the highest form. Than anyone would honestly consider us traitors remains very painful to consider.

Crossposted at DailyKos and NION.

Children Are Dying in Iraq Every Day

2006-11-29T16:27:00.000-05:00

The news from Iraq continues to be that of increasing violence on all sides. Increasing numbers of Iraqis are dying daily in sectarian attacks. New reports of American inflicted casualties are beginning to surface today. Military spokesmen confirmed today the death of five Iraqi children in a US raid in Ramada. The military claims the raid was in response to insurgent use of the house. After an extensive bombing campaign against the dwelling, only the bodies of the children were found.

Such events are tragic to the maximum degree. What military force can hope to have the support of the population when such reports become widespread? How can we not expect the relatives of those children not to react in anger at the presence of American troops? The only reasonable solution is to withdraw our troops and begin the humanitarian effort necessary to stabilize and rebuild Iraq. We must withdraw now. We have no more children to lose.

The Deaths Continue in Iraq

2006-11-29T16:12:00.000-05:00

According to United Nations estimates more than 100 Iraqi citizens have been killed every day since the bombing of a Shiite shrine in February. The violence is the direct result of sectarian reactions and tit for tat killing of members of one sect by the other. During the same time period the US military averages more than 2 deaths per day. The violence is apparently escalating in all venues over the course of time.

Just how much longer are we, the American people, willing to allow this senseless violence to continue. Given the failure of the American military to stop the continuing sectarian violence the reasonable step seems to be to bring them home before any more die. Staying the course for the past few years has led to more American deaths without any obvious increase in security in either the US or in Iraq. We must bring our troops home and bring them home now. Tomorrow may be too late for a few more young Americans who do not deserve to die.

VOTE November 7

2006-10-28T10:23:00.000-04:00

Voting is the single most important responsibility held by all adult citizens in a democracy. Voting is a privilege and a right. On November 7 we have the chance to exercise our responsibility as voting citizens. On that day we collectively decide the future course of our country. The country has been guided entirely by a Republican administration for the past 6 years. Not one Democrat sponsored bill has passed Congress during those years.

Many actions of this administration in recent years are the wrong ones. We can no longer afford to “stay the course.” On November 7 we have the chance to change direction by voting for Democratic candidates. Every voter must go to the polls and vote their individual conscience. Failure to vote signifies acceptance or support of the current path for our country.

YELL LOUDER!!!

2006-10-22T11:38:00.000-04:00

American forces continue to occupy Iraq even today while the casualty count for both Iraqis and Americans rises daily. The occupation is increasingly being seen as the immoral, illegal, and unjustified action which it represents. At the same time we see increasing apathy in the American public. Where is the outrage that came with Vietnam? Why do we sit calmly by and see funerals of American soldiers pass without notice except in their home communities? We all need to speak up and speak out to voice our resistance to this ongoing loss of our children, our sons and daughters, the mothers and fathers of our children. We have no more children to lose.

So long as we sit idly by, warming our feet by the fire, enjoying our comfortable homes our children will continue to die in a losing cause. We have nothing left to win in Iraq except for the lives of those troops who are alive today. Only by immediate and unconditional withdrawal do we stand to save any measure of respect in the international community. Such withdrawal will come from our administration only when the voice of the people is heard loud and clear. The time has come to yell louder and longer. Only by crying out together can we can bring about the necessary changes.

A Vote for Withdrawal

2006-10-22T11:30:00.000-04:00

The occupation of Iraq continues day by day as we see the casualty count for American troops increase. We hear constant reminders the administration about how we should support the troops. The troops deserve all the support we have to give. They deserve the armor and weapons that are denied by the administration. They deserve medical attention for both the physical and mental wounds of the war, not the cuts to VA funding put forth by the administration. The troops deserve to be paid enough so they can live without welfare or the need for payday loan sharks. In short the troops deserve an administration that supports them in fact and not just in words.

An election is just around the corner. We are each responsible for voting if we wish to maintain our democratic freedoms. To that end I suggest we consider the candidates and give our support to the one that most fulfills our desires for supporting the troops. We need to support candidates that recognize the usefulness of a strong military and one that recognizes we should not waste our forces on ill advised missions. In short we need to support those candidates encouraging full and rapid withdrawal of American forces from Iraq. The final decision is personal to each of us but for today and for all the foreseeable future my vote will not be given to any candidate who supports the Iraq occupation.

Our Constitution is Being Eroded

2006-09-29T14:41:00.000-04:00

Our nation is bleeding today. Our constitution is being eroded slowly but surely by an administration on a surge of power grabbing. The founding principles of liberty and justice for all have become just words rather than high principles of America as a country. We, the people, need to speak up and let the administration know we are no longer accepting this state of affairs. We must stand up again and again until we get our country back. The mid-term elections are only a few short weeks away. We need to be very careful in our choices on that day. Some incumbent legislators are not acting in our best interests. The opportunity for change is at hand if we are strong and wise enough to take up the reins and drive for ourselves. We have little to lose by action. Inaction guarantees further loss of our country's heritage and of our constitutional freedoms.

RIP America

2006-09-28T20:52:00.000-04:00

RIP America, September 28, 2006. On the darkest day in American history the US Congress passed into law a bill confirming the right of our government to use torture in interrogation. The right of habeus corpus was removed from any person designated as a terrorist. The provisions of the law exten to American citizens who may never crossed our continental borders in their lifetime.

As of this day the America we all knew and loved no longer exists. In the name of fighting terror we have taken one giant step down the moral ladder. Once again we as a country have demonstrated our lack of real integrity. Once again all of America has lost. I grieve for a country that once made me proud. I am embarrassed, angry, and disappointed that these actions were taken in my name by our Congress.

Iraq Is Too Expensive to Continue

2006-09-28T08:53:00.001-04:00

The latest congressional analysis shows the ongoing occupation of Iraq is costing about $2 billion PER WEEK. This cost is about three times the initial costs of the war due to repair, replacement, and permanent base construction. At the same time a majority of Iraqi citizens are both opposed to the American presence and supportive of attacks on our soldiers. We can no longer afford the costs in either dollars or lives. We must call for an immediate end to the occupation and an immediate withdrawal of our troops from Iraq before our country is completely bankrupted by the ongoing farce.

Iraq Is Too Expensive to Continue

2006-09-28T08:53:00.000-04:00

No Torture Bill in America!!

2006-09-25T16:03:00.000-04:00

Readers continue to complain about the recent speech by Venezuelan President Chavez. At the same time we see no complaints about the torture bill winding its way through Congress at the behest of the President. Why are we so intent on complaining about the words of a foreign president when our country is in real danger of further eroding its moral standing in the world?

The bill now being considered in both houses of Congress would allow our government to bypass rules established by the Geneva Conventions. The bill would allow various means of interrogation which have long been considered torture by most reasonable people. The bill would also give retroactive protection to those members of the military and the CIA who may have illegally performed such tortures in the past. We cannot allow this to happen.

Our moral standing in the international community is at an all time low as a result of our invasion and subsequent occupation of Iraq and the publicized mistreatment of prisoners. That we even allow discussion of the proposed torture bill is unconscionable. That our legislators may allow such a bill to pass is beyond imagining. Let foreign presidents rail as they will, we have larger fish to fry on our own soil.

We Have Lost In Iraq

2006-09-20T11:40:00.000-04:00

The violence escalates on a daily basis in Iraq. More American dead are added to the toll almost every day. And yet we are assured that “all is well” by our Congress and the administration. I must disagree. Anyone who thinks the war in Iraq is not lost is delusional. The record of increasing deaths and failing infrastructure in the face of a continuing occupation is very clear. We are not losing. We have lost.

We Americans need to take a good look at where our country is going. Our stature in the world is falling and will not be improved so long as we remain in Iraq. The world holds us responsible for the situation in Iraq; and rightly so since we did invade what was at the time a peaceful country. When our troops entered Iraq we had not been attacked, local citizens had relative safety (compared to the situation today) and jobs, and public services were intact. Today not one of those descriptors fits in most parts of Iraq.

Our actions are destroying a country and its economy to the benefit of large corporations and political contributors. Our military is stretched beyond reasonable limits. Enough is enough. The time has come to admit defeat, bring our troops home, and commit what remains of our resources to the healing of the wounded and the restoration of both our own country and Iraq. We have no more time to waste.

World, I Am Sorry

2006-09-20T11:14:00.000-04:00

As we continue the daily trek toward five years in Iraq, the news from Baghdad and other locations worsens on a daily basis. The number of terrorist attacks in Afghanistan is higher now than at any point since the initial invasion by American forces. For what has happened in both countries to date as a result of my government’s action I offer my humble apology to the entire world. Please accept my sincere apology for what America has become.

I am sorry that in two separate elections nearly half of American voters supported George Bush as the country moved toward being the biggest bully on the block. We as a voting public offered our trust where none was due. As thanks for our support we were rewarded with a large dose of fear. We have seen our civil rights eroded steadily by both a secretive administration and a subservient Congress. Today we have lost much of our power to protest the misdeeds of the government thanks to the so-called Patriot Act. Today we are subject to government spying on our private affairs without either warrant or notice.

In the next few weeks an election of great importance will take place. This time we have a chance to vote our ideals. We can look at the track record of the current administration and learn for ourselves. We have the choice of changing the course of this country or we can continue the same downward spiral. For the sake of our position in the world I for one hope we find a new direction.

We Need Different Opinions

2006-09-12T22:07:00.000-04:00

In his 9/11 address President Bush continued to defend the ongoing occupation of Iraq and asked all Americans to “put aside their differences and fight for victory.” We all know what he really meant. The President prefers we stop voicing our own opinions and bow to the wishes of the administration. I say “No.” We need different voices and differing opinions in this country. Voicing our differences allows for finding middle ground. In the middle ground we find a course that best suits the country. Either end of a polar spectrum tends to pull the country too far in one direction.

All of us who oppose the ongoing Iraq debacle need to speak up at regular intervals lest our voices be suppressed or lost. We have lost too many of our freedoms already in this war on terrorism. We cannot afford to lose more. If we fail to speak up and simply join the pack we stand to lose our country. We cannot afford to put aside our differences and follow in blind fashion down a path we see as wrong.

We Have a War Criminal for a President

2006-09-12T16:07:00.000-04:00

President Bush and the administration led America into the Iraq occupation by claiming the presence of weapons of mass destruction and support by Sadam Hussein for Osama Bin Laden. Both sets of supposed “facts” are now known to be untrue. Invading an innocent country is illegal under both international law and the Geneva Conventions. Under those statutes the people responsible are war criminals. In light of the facts as we know them today that makes President Bush along with high ranking members of the administration liable for trial on charges of war crimes.

Given the state of affairs in addition to the ongoing admissions by the President of various illegal activities (warrantless spying and secret prisons) I continue to be amazed at the lack of any response by the American public. We should be outraged. We have been lied to repeatedly by a President who is by all definitions a war criminal. How much longer will we allow this situation to continue? We must demand an immediate end to the illegal occupation of Iraq and demand full legal recourse by international courts if we are to regain any measure of standing in the world community. We cannot stand still and allow our country to be led any further into criminal activity.

Time for a Change in Leadership

2006-09-12T15:43:00.000-04:00

President Bush in recent speeches continues to drive home the point that worldwide terrorism is a factor of life and that we need to fight terrorism on all fronts. Americans all seem to be agreed with those general statements. The differences come with how to win against a disorganized front. President Bush wants to “stay the course” Iraq despite the fact that by all measures that course is failing. We need a new course on all fronts.

Day by day we see our freedoms eroding in this country. Day by day we see increasing violence worldwide. Day by day we see a failure of leadership in the White House or Congress in solving these problems. We need new leadership. The elections are coming in November. Now is the time to insist both our incumbent politicians and the candidates for office address our concerns and offer new solutions. Time is wasting. We are in the same position as Rome under Nero when Rome burned and Nero fiddled. We cannot afford to stand by and lose our country to inept leadership.

Wasting Money in Iraq

2006-09-07T13:12:00.000-04:00

The ongoing occupation of Iraq costs $11 million per hour. For that price we maintain 130,000 American troops in the country putting each one at risk of death or serious injury every moment of the day. We are paying for increased destruction of the Iraqi economy and infrastructure. While we maintain a military presence in Iraq the civilian resentment toward our occupation continues to grow. How many better ways could those millions be spent?

We have many needs in our country today. Even one hour's worth of Iraq expenditures could provide superior health care to many people. Only an hour's monies could feed, house, and clothe large numbers of our neediest citizens. College tuition for hundreds would require only an hour's money. For just a few days' expense the levies in New Orleans could be rebuilt so we don't face a repeat of the Katrina disaster. For a few hours' money we could provide real port security for our country in place of the sham we enjoy today.

There are too many ways the money is needed at home to allow ongoing expenses in Iraq. We must insist on withdrawal today lest we spend our country into a black hole of debt that will never be filled. Today we can change our course and begin the recovery our country needs so badly. Staying the course is no longer a realistic option unless we intend to destroy our country entirely.

Brutality, Atrocity, and War

2006-09-05T16:27:00.000-04:00

Brutality and atrocity have always been parts of war. Nonetheless we, the American public, should not accept the behavior of our troops when rape, murder, or other violations of law are the result. We should demand the perpetrators be brought to justice just as we would demand such in our neighborhoods. Just imagine the horror and the anger generated by the rape of a daughter or a neighbor. Those same feelings should arise at the news of Haditha and other Iraq neighborhoods.

Every atrocious act from our troops brings increased resistance to the occupation and leads to increased support for the insurgency. We can support the individual soldiers to the degree that they are performing their jobs in an unforgiving environment, but at the same time we cannot use that environment to justify illegal acts of any sort. If we fail to demand justice we allow further erosion of our American heritage. We cannot afford to lose our standards of behavior even in a time of war.

We Must Oppose the Iraq Occupation Today

2006-09-05T13:26:00.000-04:00

The initial invasion and subsequent occupation of Iraq was supported by a majority of Americans. Since the initial invasion we learned more facts and learned we were misled about 9/11. Today a clear majority of Americans favor troop withdrawal. In spite of rising public opposition to the war our Congressmen are taking no action to change the course.

The time has come for each of us to contact our elected officials and insist on a new course. We should insist there be no permanent American military bases in Iraq. We need to withdraw our troops and those of other coalition countries to allow the Iraqis an opportunity to govern their own affairs. We should insist on full funding of the Veterans Administration to give the returning troops the support they deserve. We as a country need to change our stance in world affairs and end the reliance on “pre-emptive” invasion as an option. We need to redirect the funds being used to further the occupation for better support of our affairs at home.

The ongoing costs of the occupation are too high in both blood and dollars. By withdrawing from Iraq we have a chance to set a new course for our country. So long as we remain silent the same losses will continue for an indefinite future. We must all speak up and speak out about today and make our legislators aware of our thoughts. Today is not too late, but tomorrow may well be.

History is Full of Lessons if We Only Look

2006-09-04T19:19:00.000-04:00

In years past America watched as thousands of our soldiers died in Vietnam. Today we are seeing on a daily basis a repeat of that piece of history. Why can we not learn from our past mistakes? Why must we continue the present course in Iraq? Why can we not find a better way?
Until and unless our elected leaders here the protest loud and clear our children will continue to die in Iraq. To date every death has been in vain as the country has deteriorated into civil war and worldwide terror attacks have never been higher in number.

What have we gained in this war? We will not gain from this or any other war until we begin to learn from our past history. History is only a learning experience if we let it be. We must begin to look at our history, stop repeating the same mistakes, and end the occupation of Iraq. Any other course has been proven in past times to lead only to further losses. We simply have no more children to lose.

The Iraq Occupation is Criminal

2006-09-04T18:58:00.000-04:00

The time has come to face the truth in Iraq. This is not a war. The ongoing occupation of Iraq is the result of an illegal invasion of a sovereign country. The actions taken to date by American military forces are in violation of international law and the Geneva Convention against aggressive war. The invasion and subsequent occupation of Iraq are crimes for which we, the American public, are ultimately responsible.

Our elected leaders took us into Iraq. Now we, the voters of this fair country, are responsible for changing the course. No one should argue that we have any right to continue criminal behavior. The responsible course is full and rapid withdrawal followed by economic support to foster rebuilding the country we have almost destroyed. To choose any other course but withdrawal is to continue criminal behavior. No person can continue to support such illegal activity and still claim to live as a moral and civil person.

Catastrophe or Victory??

2006-08-30T16:33:00.000-04:00

In a recent speech to the American Legion convention, Donald Rumsfeld quoted Clemenceau saying, “War is a series of catastrophes resulting in victory.” When are we going to see any evidence of the victory we have been promised so many times? We, the American public, have waited patiently while our soldiers die in increasing numbers. We have seen Iraq deteriorate into a vicious civil war in which the occupying troops are caught in a crossfire. How many more catastrophes must we endure before we see “victory?”

We must all demand an immediate end to this fantasy the administration has created in their own minds. Maybe President Bush and his advisors cannot see the truth but anyone else surely can. The daily reports of violence and instability along with the daily losses suffered by American forces are enough to tell any reasonable person that victory is not on the horizon. The time has come to change course and withdraw from Iraq. Only by leaving the country to the Iraqis is there any hope of ending the catastrophe that is our occupation.

We Are In Danger of Losing Our Country

2006-08-30T16:23:00.000-04:00

Democracy itself is being challenged by ongoing world events. Today the effort to impose democracy from without (America in Iraq) is most often equated with death by military action or from improvised bombs. Very little benefit can be seen to date to the continuing occupation and the damage to both Iraq and to America continues to grow. In this venture our government has alienated many of our foreign allies, spent untold billions of dollars much of which is unaccountable, and cost the lives of more than 2600 of our soldiers. The American military is stretched to near the breaking point as troops are repeatedly reassigned to Iraq. The ready reserves including men in their 50’s are being recalled to active duty. By allowing terrorism to overshadow all other national concerns we are failing as a country.

We can no longer afford to continue down this path. The sooner we withdraw from Iraq the sooner we can begin to restore some measure of both domestic and international tranquility. The handwriting is on the wall. We are pursuing a failing course which is worsening with time. The costs are simply too high. We have no more children to lose. We are in danger of losing our country as we knew it if we fail to change course very soon.

Support the Troops--Bring Them Home Today

2006-08-27T11:06:00.000-04:00

The time has come to support our troops with real certitude and with unfailing dedication. No longer can we sit by and watch our military members sent back for deployment after deployment in Iraq. No longer can we allow the reserve and national guard members to be taken from families and jobs to face an uncertain future in Iraq. Such ongoing misuse of our troops is unconscionable if we aim to support our troops.

We must insist on withdrawal from Iraq as soon as possible. We find ourselves today occupying a country in the midst of a civil war. American and other foreign troops are caught in the crossfire. The longer we stay the higher will be our casualty numbers. The more often a soldier is assigned a risky chore, the more likely an injury or death.

If we wish to support our troops we need to take action today. Write or call your Congressional representatives. Send a letter to the editor of any newspaper. With concerted action we can give our troops the support they so soundly deserve. To support to any lesser degree is not an option.

No Permanent Bases in Iraq

2006-08-27T10:51:00.000-04:00

President Bush and his advisors continually use the expression “cut and run” as criticism for opponents of the Iraqi occupation. The opposite of “cut and run” is permanent occupation. With the building of an impressive compound in the Green Zone along with several permanent bases in other parts of the country we are embarked on a course of permanent occupation. This is one more part of the current “stay the course” strategy that needs to be changed.

Our troops are dying on a daily basis. More than 2600 are dead to date and many thousands injured too badly to return to duty. Hundreds will require a lifetime of care as a result of their injuries. Will we, the American, public allow such injuries and deaths to continue for an indefinite future? The installation of permanent bases in Iraq guarantees the exposure of our troops to ongoing risks. Only by withdrawing all our troops and leaving those established bases can we stop the blood shed.

Leave Iraq to the Iraqis

2006-08-27T10:29:00.000-04:00

Day by day we see the failure of military force in Iraq. Since the initial invasion terrorist attacks against both foreign military members and against Iraqi forces have increased steadily. Every hallmark of progress as reported by the administration and touted in the press has been followed by increasing evidence of failure on the ground. One only look to the recent looting of a British base once the troops left as an example of the abject failure to ready the Iraqis for defense of their own country.

Given the apparent increasing failure of military force, the single prudent course left for pursuit is complete withdrawal of foreign troops. Once that withdrawal is accomplished the Iraquis will have an opportunity to establish their own independent society. So long as an occupying force continues its presence the Iraqis have little or no incentive to make progress on their own.

Cleaning up the Mess in Iraq

2006-08-27T10:04:00.000-04:00

In our households as well as in our international affairs cleanup is a messy but necessary affair. In the ongoing occupation of Iraq, cleanup is not possible. The threat to anyone involved in positive events is too large. International groups offering aid are often attacked. Civilians involved in various humanitarian efforts are highly at risk of kidnapping or murder. To stay the course is to continue or worsen the messy situation. We, the American public, need a new and different plan.

On the surface it appears the continued presence of foreign troops acts as a catalyst for terrorists. The foreigners are an easy target with their uniforms and vehicles. Only inside the fabled Green Zone are troops and foreign civilians safe from attack. When one cleans a kitchen made a mess by the children, one begins by removing the children from the area. Removing our troops from Iraq would allow the locals to being the process of cleaning up the mess we have made. With help from outside agencies that cleanup may be a successful venture. So long as the children stay in the kitchen the mess cannot be cleared.

We Must Leave Iraq NOW

2006-08-22T09:23:00.000-04:00

In a news conference this week President Bush clearly stated what has been widely accepted earlier that Iraq had no part in the events of 9/11. The primary reason for the war as stated more than once was the removal of Saddam Hussein and the subsequent democratization of the Middle East. News reports continually demonstrate just how unsuccessful this course continues to be.

Democracy has never been instilled by military force. We are seeing a rising resistance to American occupation as measured by ever increasing numbers of insurgent attacks on our forces. In addition the numbers of Iraqi civilians killed is growing steadily. How can anyone expect democracy to arise from such a course?

Saddam Hussein has been deposed. An elected government is his replacement. And yet the President tells us the American presence must continue at least until the end of his term. To what end will we continue the occupation? Will an unending occupation insure peace and democracy in the Middle East? Or will the occupation just lead to more American deaths and end in civil war in the country?

We must leave Iraq as soon as possible if we are to have any hope of real peace in the Middle East. Our presence in Iraq is an ongoing irritation that serves as a focus of Arab and international anger directed toward our country. If we are to begin rebuilding international relations and begin once again to lead in the world we must begin by ending the occupation of Iraq.