MarkAlbertiniPolitics.com

It's Time For Me To Marry The Democrats

2011-03-21T12:59:00.000-07:00

I bet you never thought you'ld hear me say that, never mind even think it. But the response to Mr. Obama over Libya has given rise to some strong feelings between myself and my fellow American Democrat citizens. I have been watching with Constitutional interest the political drama unfolding in the various Muslim States in the Middle East. I was content to let things unfold as the citizens thereof were compelled to either permit or flee from the prevailing changes. The situation in Libya was no different, until, my fellow soldiers were called to get in the middle of the conflict.

Today I read a Facebook posting put out by a political aquintance of mine identifying a group of liberal Democrats who are unhappy with Mr. Obama's decision to order American forces into another war with a Muslim State. As many of you are aware, my political philosophy could not even faintly be considered liberal. There is scarce little I find myself in agreement with alongside most socioeconomic liberals. But the Libyan situation brings me heart and soul into the same bed with my Liberal brothers; we walk hand in hand with this one.

Dennis Kucinich, a Democrat from Ohio says the attack on Libya is an act of war. "The President does not have power under the Constitution to unilaterally authorize a military attack in a situation that does not involve stopping an actual or imminent threat to the nation. . .It is an act of war, . . .War from the air is still war."

Another Democratic lawmaker was clearly agitated Mr. Obama avoided involving the U.S. Congress. The lawmaker said “They consulted the Arab League. They consulted the United Nations. They did not consult the United States Congress, . . .“They’re creating wreckage, and they can’t obviate that by saying there are no boots on the ground. … There aren’t boots on the ground; there are Tomahawks in the air.” Indeed, one thing that has amazed me militarily about this whole incident is how American forces are being controlled by foreign nations.

My, my, the political arena can show itself at unexpected times as a penumbra of what we wish could always occur in our society.

My view is in agreement with the foregoing. The U.S. Constitution Art 1, Sec 8, Cl 11-says "The Congress (not the President) shall have Power . . . .To declare war, grant Letters of Marque and Reprisal (letters from the U.S. given to citizens authorizing them to use force against American enemies as reprisal for injury done to American interests). Dennis Kucinich and the others are correct; the President does not have Constitutional authority to attack another nation without the approval of Congress. Firing upon foreign defenses with missiles is certainly an act of war.

Look What The Net Dragged In

2010-12-16T03:06:00.000-08:00

Charles Rangel gets caught. But who else was with him behind the curtain? Zach Wamp & Lamar Alexander both contributed to this man's waste.

What More Can Be Said

2010-10-21T05:11:00.000-07:00

In the midst of the housing price decline, lawyers are floundering to reinvent their business at the expense of individual responsibility. In fact the end game, as some attorneys readily admit, is that they will hit the lawsuit lottery and the banks will pay out.
Michael Gaier, an attorney in Philadelphia, switched to foreclosure defense last year after years of representing patients in malpractice suits and consumers who said they had purchased faulty products. His new legal practice "is academically challenging, and I'm hoping it'll be financially rewarding. I'm hoping the banks rewrite the mortgages, cover my fees. That's my end game," said Mr. Gaier.

Moral Risk In The Mortgage Market

2010-10-15T05:56:00.000-07:00

As the well known "mortgage mess" marches on, some are provocatively asking questions about the outcome of real estate in America. Write-ups such as "Are we heading for a housing Armageddon" search our fear, but do they offer any hope for the Christian who either invests in real estate or who wants to but a home? The article named above provides three main issues surrounding the current real estate "mess." "In the best case scenario, the issues are simply technical, the situation is resolved and the foreclosure process continues. Many believe housing won’t recover until the glut of foreclosed homes clears the market. In the medium-case scenario, litigation ensues and the matter takes years to sort out. That will inflict more pain onto the already troubled housing market. In the worst case, the issues become a “systemic problem” that grinds the mortgage market to a halt and title insurers refuse to insure mortgages involving existing homes. In other words, housing Armageddon. “It would be devastating for the resale market if this robo-signer issue spiraled out of control,” Mr. Watson says.
Another article provide a more detailed analysis of what issues can evolve from the current mortgage dilemma.
With all of these considerations put before us, the bigger questions still for the Believer is should I trust in debt and should I pay my bills. The Bible says Believers are to owe no man anything except to love him. Rom 13:8 tells Believers they are to avoid debt. This means you do not buy a house until you have cash to do so.

Do You Know What Makes Mr. Obama Tick?

2010-09-09T04:37:00.000-07:00

Neocolonialism, American style. Have you ever heard of this term? Some of you probably have. So what does it have to do with what Obama is policy-driven by? Forbes has an interesting article as to how Obama views America's role, or could I even say, lack thereof, in the world today. Mr. Gingrich seems to have come to the same conclusion I have. You could properly state in the Neocolonialist's eyes, "profits are a measure of how effectively you have ripped off the rest of society. . . ." But is this view realistic for today's commerce and emerging markets? What about Biblically? Prov 14:23 says "All hard work brings a profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty." Do we then deny profits to those who work hard to provide for their family? This is simply one view of Obama. Some would perhaps quite aptly identify the characteristics described in the article as parallel and not perpendicular to Socialism. Whatever your view, the explanation of Obama's historical philosophy is intriguing.

Pray For Mr. Obama To Have Wisdom With BP

2010-06-09T04:09:00.000-07:00

Mr. Obama is trying to figure out how to handle the BP spill. I am sure it is a difficult decision. As most realize, BP has to be cleared in all they do by the Energy Dept. Some are encouraging Mr. Obama to seize BP's assetts. I do not think these are helpful suggestions. Capitalism functions best without the force of government.

The Tentacles of Corruption Run Deep In Chattanooga

2010-05-30T04:54:00.000-07:00

I have never before written about the corruption in local (city & county) Chattanooga government before. But now, I feel compelled. Upon reading about the proposed property tax increase in Chattanooga, I became thoroughly aggravated. Some Council members now seem content to stomach an increase. I think they need a new stomach. So where can Chattanooga cut expenses? Try the following for starters:
-Eliminate all pay increases for the foreseeable future
-Eliminate all public pensions
-Eliminate all new construction
-Eliminate all employee benefits
-Eliminate supervisory positions by 50% & enforce firings of all personnel who fail to perform
-Make it illegal for any public employee to me a member of a Union (many Chattanooga employees are members of the SEIU [Service Employees International Union]-see here to see how many and what they support). It's ironic that SEIU calls itself a group of service-minded individuals when their policies speak otherwise.

US Interior Secretary Jumps on the Obama Circus wagon

2010-05-12T19:05:00.000-07:00

US Secretary Ken Salazar says the BP oil spill is a "clarion call" for cleaner energy (code for stopping the use of fossil fuel). This guy is absolutely brilliant. What are we going to do-drive around with a trailer full of solar panels? At least Chu, the U.S. Energy Secretary has the brains to state the transfer to clean energy will take time. I think a more apt statement would be a very long time if ever. The fact of the matter is, fossil fuel is a very reliable and affordable source of common energy. I really wonder sometimes why this administration is not held up somewhere in a mental hospital.

Freakshow MC tries to build political capital at the expense of business

2010-05-12T08:13:00.000-07:00

Obama says he wants to charge businesses more per barrel so Obama can clean up the mess. Yah see, the chief freak doesn't trust business to do it. Never mind that BP has already agreed to pay for all legitimate expenses.

Bringing The Freak Show To The Swamp

2010-05-12T04:50:00.000-07:00

TN's Governor Bredesen has proposed spending 15 million to buy more conservation land. How much of this land will be wetlands (swamp land) where millions of mosquitoes will breed and attack humans? This is the insanity that centralized power breeds. TDEC already maintains 53 state parks with over 134,000 Acres. And in addition, the state maintains 80 different "natural areas" covering more than 116,000 acres. It is unreasonable to spend State taxpayer money on more land which also takes these same areas off the tax rolls. This is especially true at a time when many Americans are realizing we are spending our way into extinction. One proposal I have is to take this same 15 million and either provide 400 jobs at 30K per year to improve TN's roads and infrastructure or provide a tax refund to all state tax payers. Although Mr. Bredesen has done some wise things as a politician, his liberal tendencies seem to rise above his good points. Unfortunately for Republicans, the EPA was started by Pres. Nixon.

The Guts To Do It

2010-05-11T08:05:00.001-07:00

What duty do the credit ratings agencies have to investors? Is their duty to ensure investment in American business at any cost? Neither Moody's nor S&P have the guts it takes to deal with reality. It appears only the Weiss Group is willing to recognize the true condition of America's debt. I wonder, are those who refuse to point out error committing treason against the Constitution because they favor the enemy's role by keep themselves in favor with the enemy?

The Greatest Freak Show Makes Appearances in TN

2010-05-11T04:42:00.000-07:00

Sen. Thelma Harper, D-Nashville, TN said the bill will “hamper people who want to be a part of the system. I think it’s just a bad piece of legislation. It’s mean-spirited," This is the kind of stupidity Christians have allowed to take over our election processes in America. If Christians are wondering why things are so bad in America, their primary finger-pointing should turn 180 degrees to themselves. If Christians stood up and knew about candidates and voted warped minds like this out of office, we would have some sanity in government. Any reasonable person understands that the claims one makes should be verified. The proposed law Ms. Harper is fighting is that election officials "may" require voters to prove their citizenship. Look, I have one answer, if you love America and you want to be here, learn the language and become a legal citizen, otherwise, get your lame body back to your country of origin. If I was in charge, there would be machine guns on the border to kill anyone crossing illegally and trespassing on American's property. If the privilege of being an American means anything, it means the responsibility to protect what has been given to "we the people" by God.

Welcome To The Greatest Freak Show On Earth

2010-05-10T17:33:00.000-07:00

That's what I would call the current White House Administration. I could go on and on and on. Nominees who are sympathetic to Socialism, supporters of murdering children, gay rights, etc. Now we have Ms. Elena Kagan, a woman who has never served as a judge about to be appointed to the highest court in the land on top of all her twisted philosophy of life-abortion, gay rights, socialism, dismantling of the military. And then, as if to add multilayered fuel to the flame, the HUD Secretary says Banks cannot foreclose on those who went through the recent flood in Nashville because they would be victimized twice. Is there anyone out there who thinks they are a victim of God's cruel punishment in the form of a flood and the Government must now come in and show them mercy after this cruel Creator has done His work? At least some politicians retain sanity in Washington.

How many Jobs can the Govt. "create"?

2010-04-26T18:37:00.000-07:00

I read today 4/26/10 at MoneyNews.com the following-“The White House's Council of Economic Advisers says the $787 billion Recovery Act is on track to create or save 3.5 million jobs by the end of the year.” I crunched some #s. That comes up to $216,285. per job. Now I figured that if I hire (6) persons for every (1) that the President says he hired I could pay each of them $36,047 per year or $17.33 per hr. before taxes. Now that seems like a pretty could wage to me. I could hire 21,000,000 People and the President could only hire 3,500,000. Would that bring the unemployment rate down to about 6%? I further pondered, what happens when the money runs out? Ah, I thought to myself, this is the problem with Government thinking it can solve man's problems. Only we, as people of our country can create jobs that last. This is why government's role in society should be very limited. The White House's news makes me wonder what criteria people use when they vote for someone. If they want to spend your money to "create" a job, think twice before you check the box.

High School Student Sues Over Dissagreement With Teacher

2010-02-17T05:00:00.000-08:00

Katherine Evans, formerly a student at Pembroke Pines High School (just N. of Miami Fl 9544434800) disagrees with her teacher Sarah Phelps at Pine High which suspended her for cyberbullying the teacher and Katherine sues for nominal fees which basically says "I was right" and of course the lawyers ask for their pay check! And you wonder why lawyers get the charecterization of being just above sewer rats! Unless I am misreeding something, or the teacher's request is illegal or iBiblical, the student is obligated to do as the teacher requests, and the teen's parent's should back the teacher up. Is this what America has become? In Prov 5:12-14 the Bible says "children obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right." Lay aside your rights teens! You have no rights when your teacher tells you to do something, unless the request is illegal or iBiblical. Mt 10:24 says that a student is not above their teacher. I Tim 5:1 says-Do not rebuke an older man harshly, but exhort him as if he were your father. Treat younger men as brothers"-and I could go on!

It appears the ACLU has gone down the path they know best.

Guns in bars is Constitutional

2009-11-23T05:45:00.001-08:00

I was not surprised to hear of the ruling from a female judge in Nashville who said the recently passed Bill to allow guns in bars was unconstitutional. This so-called judge is not only wrong but apparently also uneducated in the U.S. Constitution she swore to uphold. The 2nd Amend says directly that "the right of the people to keep and bear arms, shall not be infringed." The only restraint indicated in the Constitution is when a person is held for a crime under the 5th Amend. This judge shows her liberal bias moreover by ignoring the fact that those who are allowed under this Bill to carry weapons in bars have gone through background checks. We certainly have an element within the judicial community within this State and Country that are imbued with a certain degree of judicial imprudence. I would include here Mr. Gibbons who supported Mr. Bredesen's veto of the Bill.

Whose responsibility is it to take care of America's waste water?

2009-11-23T04:49:00.000-08:00

This question has been haunting me of late due to the concerns of sewage seeping into our drinking water. N.Y. has a problem and so does Chattanooga. The 10th Amendment says "the powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution . . . are reserved to the States. . . ." under Art I Sec 8 the powers given to Congress are spelled out. Under no direct power is the Congress granted authority over America's waterways or bodies. Congress is however given authority to govern the several States' commerce with themselves and other nations. The problem is simple enough to understand it is stated. Waste water treatment plants are overwhelmed when rainwater flows into the plants thus causing intake gates to shut and send the waste into overflow pipes back into water reservoirs. It appears to me if we are concerned about using this water as drinking water we shouldn't be. As I understand, our drinking water can actually come from raw sewage if need be because of the effectiveness of our water purification systems. Waste is mixed with so-called biological digesters that consume dangerous pathogens. The waste water is then mixed with chlorine and sent back into clean water reservoirs. Non-the-less, I am not crazy about swimming with terds. Perhaps it is reasonable to say as well that although we should strive for clean water, perfection of everything will not be found on this earth in this life. If States are responsible for ensuring adequate water treatment, they should plan for it. One point I would argue is States and cities have been so busy throwing money to the wind, including the Fed, they have not given proper attention to sewage treatment. One such example is Chattanooga. Chattanooga wastes money in numerous ways. I would include here the paying of vacation pay, sick pay, and retirement benefits among others. If these monies were used to provide for adequate infrastructure rather then chasing after the Joneses we would be in far better shape. There is also a question in my mind as to whether the EPA is constitutional under Art I. It seems somewhat ironic moreover that the EPA would announce fines upon cities when the Fed has wasted enough money to take care of the sewage treatment for the entire nation probably several times over.

What Happens When You Die In Tennessee?

2009-11-14T06:58:00.000-08:00

As I am growing older, some things are becoming more important to me. One of which is to ensure what God has entrusted to me is administered properly upon my death. One thing, even if taken in aggregate with all my other concerns, that aggravates me to no end, is that the government will pick apart my bones, so to speak, when my spirit separates itself from my body under the power of God to be with the LORD forever. TN has two death taxes: the Inheritance tax and the Estate tax. The Inheritance tax is a tax upon the privilege of receiving property by transfer because of a decedent’s death. The Estate tax is a supplement to the Inheritance tax. Both taxes are directly related to the Fed Estate tax. Because of its' complexity, One really needs to examine the Code.
Can you even imagine the audacity of these politicians? They are telling you that you have a privilege to receive something God has given to you! Yeah, they throw in an exception, as to pay Peter while robbing Paul. But the point is, whomever I designate as the administrator of my Will will have to pay homage to Caesar(TN) if the value of my estate reaches a certain $ amount. So you thought the Fed was the only one who stole your money? Thing again. And I might add, you can thank plenty of Republicans as well as Democrats for this robbery. You say "robbery." That's right! You heard me straight. If this tax is not paid, someone is levied against by force or threat of force (taking your money by the force of the State w/o your permission.) Do you hear any of the Gubernatorial candidates addressing this?

More to come-still writing

Why is Mrs. Clinton covering her head?

2009-11-02T18:37:00.000-08:00

She couldn't possibly believe in submission to male authority could she? (this is what the Muslim headdress law means). Who do you suppose Hillary is praying to here in her Muslim required headdress? It is Allah or Jehovah?

Link

Why do I go after Republicans more then Democrates?

2009-10-31T13:50:00.000-07:00

Some have wondered over the years, including certain Republicans, who have pointedly told me that saying negative facts about republicans was anti-Republican, that I should not attack a fellow republican. The question goes, more to the point, why don't you attack Democrats? I'll tell you why. It goes without saying that I am opposed to the Democratic Philosophy.

What is it that binds the Republican party together?

2009-10-28T18:32:00.000-07:00

Are there any issues which are non-negotiable to be a Republican? For me, the single greatest issue of our time is abortion. I can think of no issue which strikes at the heart of who we are as a people and a nation as whether or not it is OK to murder a child conceived in rape. Yet this is what TN's Republican leader espouses if this is what will bring more people into the party. I'm am very sorry to hear this. What do we call this activity espoused by this leader, perhaps none other than the dialectic process, known or not by the purveyor, resulting in self-editorializing. To see what is really happening, consider the following. "The fear of alienation from the group is the pressure that prevents an individual from standing firm for the truth of the Word of God, and such a one usually remains silent (self-editing). The fear of man (rejection) overrides the fear of God. The end result is a 'paradigm shift' in how one processes factual information." This is what the Republican party is facing. Those who stand must stand solid for the truth against all changes in the truth of God's word. If you have to believe a certain way to get elected in TN but you don't really believe that way, you are not genuine. I might add that before I entered the TN governors race in 2006, I sought the advice of leaders in the TN Republican party. I was dissuaded from mentioning my pro-life stance as a priority issue. I disagreed then and I do now.

How do you teach others to save when you haven't done it yourself?

2009-10-28T18:12:00.000-07:00

Mr. Wamp said that he has no assets other then his home. If one of the biggest problems we are facing in America is our lack of saving, doesn't it stand to reason we would like some people who have done pretty well at it to be responsible for the money we entrust to them in our taxes? It is beyond me how someone can make 165K a year for 14 years and not have 500,000 in cash or some other investment. Something is seriously wrong with this. It does not speak of someone who will invest the States funds to their best and safest measure.

I Wonder What Kind Of Leader That Guy Would Have Been?

2009-09-27T05:50:00.000-07:00

If the past is any prologue to the future, perhaps some things will happen as we wish not. Do you ever wonder who that Mr. John Kerry guy was? This gives us a pretty good idea of what kind of leader he would have been. Look in particular at the earmarks and Taxpayer funding this man accumulated in 2008. Compare Mr. Kerry to Mr. Wamp. It is important to recognize at this juncture that Mr. Kerry-who has no problems in vocalizing, non-the-less actuating his desire for the socialization of America-in contradistinction to Mr. Wamp, was successful at some point in his life outside of politics. As is readily apparent, Mr. Kerry did finish his educational pursuits. Understand of course that a formal education does not endear success to any man. However, a lackluster performance thereof speaks to a man's lack of desire for accomplishment throughout and within a personally challenging environment. Those who are successful in life apart from an education are far and few between. If this were not so, why would politicians push education so much? Bill Gates was an anomaly; Warren Buffet was not.

Where Does Independence Begin In America?

2009-09-27T05:27:00.000-07:00

Is it simply the Federal government which is locking heads with citizens today or has the epidemic spread to city hall? The Mayor of Chattanooga is pushing for annexation because, he says, citizens will miss out on an opportunity for growth and Fed funds if we do not annex. The argument goes that if we don't get the money someone else will. Is there any justifiable reason to borrow from our children? Do we need to grow? What about the Chattanooga pension plan established in the 1960's or the TN State fund. Why is it that Americans trust the government to do for them what they refuse to do for themselves? Is it right for one citizen to pay for the "retirement" of another? Has not America become more government centralized all the way from Congress to the town hall?

How Can The US Win In Its' Confrontation With Afghanistan?

2009-09-21T07:10:00.000-07:00

U.S Army Gen. Stanley McChrystal commands U.S. forces in Afghanistan. He says American forces cannot be defeated militarily in Afghanistan but they can be defeated by public pressure exerted upon them by the loss of Afghan civilian population. In other words, the U.S. can lose the political war but it cannot lose the military war. Should America be concerned about enemy casualties whether military or civilians when they go to war? Is it realistic to go to war with an enemy and not fight the entire country? Is this why our soldiers are giving their lives?

What place does Unemployment Insurance (UI) have in TN and America?

2009-08-10T18:53:00.000-07:00

Do you know someone who is collecting unemployment insurance (UI) benefits in TN? Sounds kind of strange doesn't it, that one can benefit from being unemployed? Believe it or not, some choose to be unemployed rather than work. Do you ever wonder where all this money is coming from? What about those who refuse to do anything until the "right job" comes along? What happens if the paychecks run out? Who pays then? First TN employers and then a loan from the Fed (which happens to be the future generation. This happened in 1983. Wisconsin started UI in 1932 and then the Fed took it from there in 1935 as part of the "new deal" and passed the Federal Unemployment Tax Act, also known as the (FUTA) tax. In TN, employers are having to pay more to keep some of these people out of work. Do you realize the Fed. govt. is printing this money fiat? But who will pay it back? Will it ever be paid back? Do you hear any of the TN Gubernatorial candidates discussing this problem. What About Mr. Wamp? He has been in congress over fourteen years. I classify that as a lifer who can't make it on his own. How many bills has he attempted to push through Congress which would ban taxpayer funding of unemployment insurance? Has Mr. Ramsey ever refused to sign a final State budget that included unemployment insurance?
I can believe there are even employees who are in the good with their employer and actually ask to be laid off and receive benefits. Those who call themselves Jeffersonians and Jacksononians are cowards to allow and take part in such activity. We have become greedy and lazy as a nation with little concern for our sovereign well-being. My solution is simple. No unemployment insurance. If you get laid off, stop crying and work your way out. If you can't "find" a job, create one. Stop belly-aching and believing government has the solution or the responsibility to provide for you. This is America, work your way out!

Should Women Leave Their Homes, Husbands and Children to Fight For Their Country?

2009-03-28T05:49:00.000-07:00

Military mom heads to duty, kids in tow reads the headline. Feminist women glee with pride, shout proclamations that they own one of the chard's of glass from the glass ceiling now shattered and abolished from Christian law. This headline caught my attention for several reasons but perhaps the most important is the lack of Christian voice against its destructive faculties upon Biblical womanhood. Is Biblical womanhood defined by the female ape following the male human? No, quite the contrary. God created them male and female.

Is Sen. Feingold Right? Should The Fed Death Penalty Be Rejected?

2009-03-20T03:42:00.000-07:00

U.S. Sen. Feingold introduced legislation to eliminate the Fed death penalty. He says the death penalty is inconsistent with basic American principles of justice, liberty and equality. He is right, at least if considered in light of the way America did believe from its founding to well over 100 yrs. after, but has since changed. Capital punishment was long practiced in America. With today’s loosening manliness prevailing however, it is easy to justify anything. What he is saying is America’s values do not fit the role of the Bible. The Bible clearly authorizes the death penalty by a government for a multitude of crimes. Romans 13:4 says “For he is God's servant to do you good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword for nothing. He is God's servant, an agent of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer.” And Job 19:29 says you should fear the sword yourselves; for wrath will bring punishment by the sword,
and then you will know that there is judgment.” As far as I know, a sword has one purpose which has been demonstrated quite often, I’m sorry to say, by unbelieving Muslims. In truth, America’s leaders have turned their back on God’s law and God can use our enemies who do not believe as we once did to punish us.

It seems Feingold is more concerned with fitting into the mold of what other nations want us to be rather than standing for what God wants us to be. He says, “It is truly unfortunate that we are in a shrinking minority of countries that continue to allow state-sponsored executions.” I don’t think he doesn’t know God’s law; I think he purposely avoids it by looking to what men say in other countries.

He says the death penalty's cost, ineffectiveness, and associated racial disparities are reasons for introducing the legislation. A public hanging is not expensive. I know of no more effective deterrent to crime, particularly for the one who committed the crime being punished, then to take their life because they can no longer commit crime. Deuteronomy 13:9-11 says “you must certainly put him to death. Your hand must be the first in putting him to death, and then the hands of all the people. 10 Stone him to death, because he tried to turn you away from the LORD your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery. 11 Then all Israel will hear and be afraid, and no one among you will do such an evil thing again.

Should Mrs. Smith Be The Odds-On Favorite For Christian Voters In The District Three Congressional Race?

2009-03-16T06:41:00.000-07:00

Mrs. Smith would not be the odds on favorite for me for several reasons. First and foremost, and I know I am an odd-ball here and probably most certainly in the minority, though I have met many older folks and some younger one’s as well who agree with me, I believe the Bible teaches that a woman’s primary concern should be to stay at home and take care of her husband, her children and her home. I do not see the public arena generally as a place for a Christian woman to be. In fact, Is 3:12 says that women in leadership is an indication of a country that has turned its back on God’s principles. I will not vote for her particularly if there is a Christian man who is running and he is conservative. I know she has said she is considering her family, but at this point I am not so sure she is. Secondly, it is reprehensible to me as a Vet that a women, and one who has never served in the military even as a nurse or secretary none-the-less, would be casting votes to send men to fight & die for their families. Third, she is not strongly conservative enough for me on some issues. Mr. Gobble said he would have voted against the Bailout that Wamp voted for and Smith says Gobble should not second guess Wamp. I disagree. Wamp was dead-on wrong to vote for such a philosophy. I addressed this topic with a video of a black pastor who disagreed with Palin running for the vice-presidency in another blog.

What Does The Second Amendment Mean To A Convicted Felon?

2009-03-14T19:52:00.000-07:00

Often times when I hear the 2nd Amendment of the U.S. Constitution (2nd) discussed, even by those calling themselves conservative, and quite often by those running for political office, they allow for the prohibition of firearms possession by those who have been convicted of a felony. I do not share this view, nor do I believe it passes Constitutional muster. The 2nd says “. . . the right of the people to keep and bear arms, shall not be infringed.” The term infringe comes from the Latin infringere and means to break or weaken. The term is also interesting when considered in the context of patents where "the party infringing is responsible to pay the original patent or copyright owner substantial damages, which can be the normal royalty or as much as the infringers' accumulated gross profits." An analysis of the term as used in patent litigation is important because it seems a majority of cases dealing with infringement involve patent cases. One can quite easily note our Framers provided no limitations upon such right. This is important because it shows us the value of an individual’s life, even one charged with a crime, to protect himself and his family.
A conviction of a crime should not be used as a tool to structure governmental control of one’s constitutional right to protect himself and his family. Does this mean a murderer should be allowed to carry a firearm? I brought up this particular scenario in a discussion with a county Sheriff recently. I told him that the constitution does not provide any parameters to the right of an individual to use a firearm to protect himself. Now what about those who are bent on harming others wrongfully? I said then as I do now, if we upheld the laws we have on the books and carried out capital punishment quickly and decisively, there would be no individuals to harm others wrongfully with their firearm. As I came to believe a long time ago, from the Bible, and even after my law school education, there is no better deterrent to crime then the elimination of the one who has or will commit another crime. Generally, if a person has been convicted of a felonious crime (one carrying a penalty of imprisonment for 1 year or more), their right to protect themselves by means of a firearm should not be hindered unless their crime was murder in the first degree, whereas in such case, the death penalty would be applied.

Does The Republican Party Follow Scripture When It Comes To Female Leadership?

2009-02-27T05:11:00.000-08:00

The subject of women in political leadership carries with it no little political correctness discourse even among the most conservative individuals. Many Christians were googlie-eyed at the thought of Palin as President. I was not. This is a subject I believe needs to be faced honestly to understand God's design in Creation and how Christians in the Republican Party will flesh out their Biblical beliefs. We do have a problem in the Republican party and it's called political correctness wedded with theological ignorance. Indeed, many in leadership are stating that we need to return to our roots. But many ask, what are our roots? We claim gay marriage is wrong in society, but why?, because the Bible says homosexuality is wrong? Well the Bible shows male leadership as the general norm in scripture both in the home and in society so why have we turned our back on this principle? What we have in our country today is a lack of theological understanding because Christians do not read their Bible and do not understand what God designed. I am writing a book about the subject myself write now. This video I think sheds some light on the problem. This video in which Voddie Baucham, who is of a different race then I, shows the universal application of scripture to our political views. The Republican Party elected an African-American as their national chair and they think they have made great strides. So what. What I care about is does he folow Biblical teaching. I thank God for Voddie and his fearlessness in serving God.

Where Do States Turn to When The Unemployed Come Asking For Money?

2009-02-13T04:07:00.000-08:00

There are only two places to go to when the State needs more money to give away-go to those who are making it fiat that is the Fed, or to employers who are earning it. The justification of turning to the State for our needs is ill-fated. I have always been against workers comp. The fact is, life is rarely a bowl of cherries. If you lose your job, as long as you are capable, get of your hiny and find another or do anything legal, just get to work. Unemployment insurance is just another means by which the State controls and diminishes our own responsibility so we can become servants to the State. There is no guarantee, such as in times like this, that there will be enough to cover everybody. What happens if unemployment hits 35%? I dare say most folks would rather sell apples than starve to death. So if you have to sell apples do it. Just stop whinning and running to the State.

Not all events planned for Inauguration will be taking place as planned

2009-01-17T09:43:00.000-08:00

D.C. gay pig-sex orgy advocates abandon reservations at Washington's Doubletree Hotel after pressure from Christians & others.

From sea to shining sea, America's moral collapse is hastening. 2009 Celebrates 25 years down the road as celebrities such as Joan Rivers will have part in promoting the gay agenda.

It appears police mind their own business during such events and the US House Speaker encourages such activity.

Christians have a duty to oppose these events within their city's. Remember, God hates sin, but he loves the sinner. I think of the women at the well. Jesus knew her past but still loved her. And then I think of the Sodomites who were bent on their own destruction to rape Lot's visitors. God speaks to the hearts of His creatures. Do they listen?

Are there times when Capitalism doesn't work?

2009-01-14T02:36:00.000-08:00

This is a question which has come front and center with the placing of a new and energetic President into the Oval Office. Why is he so confident the government can do a better job than the Free Market? I tend to think it's because of control. Man naturally wants to control things, even his own eternal destiny for that matter. So Mr. Obama thus believes "he" can do a better job at righting "our wrongs" then we. Do you believe he can? I don't. I believe I am a far better guide of what works best for my finances then he is. So what makes me better at guiding my life then he? Freedom in Christ is the answer. Freedom in Christ is what makes good responsible citizens who pay their bills and do not buy more than they can afford.

Indeed, if the Holy Scriptures will not contain our vices, what makes Mr. Obama think he can? President John Adams warned that the U.S. Constitution will not be able to sustain our liberties if the American people abandon virtue and religion. Adams stated: Avarice, ambition, revenge, or gallantry, would break the strongest cords of our Constitution as a whale goes through a net. Our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other." The words "only for a moral and religious people" need to be given attention to. Does this mean that our Constitution will not work if we are not a moral and religious people? Who are moral and religious people-Baptist, Muslims, Jews, Buddhists? You may be a Scientologist and plan on being born into another body. I am a Christian. I believe the Bible is the only source of truth for eternity and salvation. In the Bible, Jesus said, I am the way, the truth and the life, no man comes to the Father except by Me. To be a moral and religious people means we believe that Jesus Christ is God and that He died for our sins and rose again to give us new life.

When we as Americans follow this we become better citizens because our Constitution is based upon a love for God-to do what is right toward Him-and of a love for our neighbor-to do what is right before others. This makes a good civil society.

A Lesson To Live By

2008-12-07T00:36:00.000-08:00

Woman who was child in iconic picture of migrant mother worker during the Great Depression says "If there was a lesson to be learnt from the hardship of her childhood, it was the importance of saving money and not over-extending yourself."

67 Years Later-Infamy Lives On

2008-12-06T22:30:00.000-08:00

67 years ago today President Roosevelt proclaimed "Yesterday, 7 December 1941-a date which will live in infamy-the United States of America was suddenly and deliberately attacked by naval and air forces of the Empire of Japan." -Roosevelt

I started to think about the events leading up to the war-the great depression which according to general standards ran from 29-39. I thought isn't it something that America rose out of the difficult times of the depression to defend our land. We did so because we honored God and believed what we were doing was right. This is what gave us the strength to win.

Keep Your Eyes On Jesus When The World Seems Like It's Falling Apart

2008-12-05T08:11:00.000-08:00

As we watch the gyrations of our financial system, the decisions made by our government and the downsizing of American Co.s, let us not forget, God is still in control. He created this world and us upon it. America is the greatest nation upon the earth because of the freedom we have in Christ. We can always find work if we are not too proud to look. Keep your eyes on Him. He will not let you down.

May the Lord Bless our people and land. May we look to Him for guidance.

What's UAW Got To Do With It?

2008-12-04T00:25:00.000-08:00

GM is facing bankruptcy and many ask why. I believe a large part of the reason is the Unions and their demands. Now that union members are faced with loosing their jobs and benefits, they're willing to concede-we've been too demanding they say. The Biblical concept of being an employee is to do your work as unto the Lord. The UAW has turned this concept upside down and said GM owes them something. The reasons for which Unions started-primarily children in mines & dangerous factory jobs-no longer exist. UAW and others like-minded should go the way of the Hummer in this period of correction. Many have probably noticed the Japanese auto manufacturers in America do not have unions. Honda may not be making the profits it was but is it filing for bankruptcy protection?

Filibuster Proof Would have Been A Hard Swallow

2008-12-02T23:33:00.000-08:00

It is a good thing the Democrats where denied a filibuster-proof majority in the US Senate branch of Congress. The Republican party has done an unremarkable job this past election cycle and the Democrats have not shown themselves to be made up of what truly made America great. Mr. Obama may have won, but God does not approve of his abortion or gay rights policies. His win should serve to show the Republican party that God's laws are still the best paths to follow.

Who Has Jurisdiction In Cross Border Disputes Between The US And Canada When A US Court Has Assumed Jurisdiction?

2008-12-02T23:07:00.000-08:00

In an environmental case involving a Canadian company producing results on American soil a thorny issue has arisen. Canada's highest court now seeks to take up the case. The case is important due to its parallel demonstration of authority. The question is, which sovereign should carry stare decisis. This case also demonstrates how we are forced to deal with legal disputes in a world which is becoming increasingly adapted to a dismissal of national borders. Is a full faith and credit policy dealing with international disputes best where the first court to address the issue gains the right to see the case through to stare decisis?

Building An American Justice System In Afghanistan: Is This Another Face of Colonialism?

2008-12-02T17:43:00.000-08:00

American companies and attorneys are endeavoring to understand and effect the Afghanistan legal system, but Afghans have their doubts. America's rule of law is fundamentally established on English Common law which was built from a Biblical understanding of God's laws (Natural Law). How does one take a Muslim nation and force its citizenry to follow Christian laws? Quite simply, it can't be done without Afghans coming to accept Christ as their savior. In fact, this is the reason Columbus came to America-to reach the heathen for Christ.

Dealing with international piracy: A political or legal issue?

2008-12-02T17:37:00.000-08:00

American Lawyer talks with Paul Reichler about seizure of Sirius Star

What To Do With All Those Mean Ol Nasty Pirates I Say

2008-11-23T18:47:00.000-08:00

As I've watched the drama these past days of a humongous vessel being controlled by a group of stinky thugs, I have said to myself, why didn't they just send in the Marines? Isn't the coast of Somalia itself controlled my Islamic militants? But then I thought perhaps these stinky thugs had means of causing demolition to this vessel and its $100 million oil cargo. Interestingly, I came across this in some of my legal research. A US Navy officer familiar with operations "suggested that the best military course of action would be to equip some number of civilian vessels as decoys - heavily armed and carrying marines. The best thing, he said, would be for Somali pirates to attack, and then be aggressively counterattacked, in a battle, not the serving of an arrest warrant - sink their vessel and kill as many pirates as possible. It would send a message to pirates that they could not know which apparently civilian vessels might instead counterattack." This certainly sounds like an option. To tell you the truth, I'd kind of like to be on one of those decoys when these stinky thugs come aboard-barbecued Somali beef, Yumm.

Allah is great! Allah is great! At least that’s what they say

2008-11-19T18:11:00.000-08:00

Islam is working its way into the soul of America. The biggest mistake the Administration has made in the "war against terror" is to fail to realize we are not fighting only those who are known to be fundamentally determined to raise a Caliphate but against an entire religion which believes Allah is the Creator and Jesus was mearly a prophet, not the Son Of God. Islam refuses to recognize Isacc as the one who received God's blessing. To Islam, the descendants of Ishmael, Zionists (descendants of Isacc) are infidels and must be forced to convert or destroyed. We are dealing with an Islamic crusade to crush Zionism.

See also

GM, Bankruptcy and the Reasonable Person Standard

2008-11-14T04:03:00.000-08:00

Some who argue for aid to GM are involved financially in the auto business. Although I’m sure many of these advocates have far more financial wisdom then I and I take them at their word that they are not financially interested, I still have a hard time believing them. Such defenders remind me of a Bar exam prep tape where the lecturer is describing two financially interested parties. He does so to show that two opposite parties can't have a meeting of the minds when they both have opposing financial interests. The nugget to be gained is I have a hard time accepting the argument of those who favor aid to GM when they are invested in the auto industry. In my opinion, America’s only hope out of this financial mess is to turn to God and realize borrowing may be Keyne’s way to prosperity but it is not the scriptural way. Debt in scripture if not condemned, is greatly frowned upon. And this is exactly what many in American leadership, including the President, are not espousing in their ever-floundering attempt to save America's prestige. America doesn't need magical potions or financial wizardry. She needs her Christians to stand for what is right with finances and elect those who believe likewise.

Shipmen, commence sonar exercises

2008-11-12T08:35:00.000-08:00

In a decision which can best be described as reasonable, the USSC has denied environmentalists the pleasure of saving whales v. humans. The closely divided court was divided along the normally conservative v. liberal members. Justice Roberts wrote the opinion. This case clearly shows how important it is to elect a conservative president, which I am sad to say, Americans did not do this time around. The US Navy must be able to practice and use anti-sub sonar systems to defend America's citizens. As far as I am concerned, we should feed any audiologically impaired whales to poor people as well. This is not sarcastic or cruel; it is a realistic and responsible way of using the resources God has given to man while protecting ourselves from our enemies. Humans are not on earth to save whales. Whales are on earth to save man. If the environmentalists see it otherwise, I would require a scripture to qualify their argument because only scripture has ultimate authority in this world, regardless of what man says. And as for that judge who ruled against the Navy, her worldview could use some re-focusing.

From One Marine To Another-Happy Birthday

2008-11-10T23:06:00.000-08:00

Mark Albertini-USMC 1978-82
Semper Fi

Change! That Really Matters

2008-11-06T04:19:00.000-08:00

I am thankful Republicans made some gains in TN. But I am not convinced Republicans in power will make the differences which really should be made. I voted for and financially supported Republicans during the election but I think the Bush administration and TN's Republican members, both state and congressional, have shown that many times being a Republican means carrying a name rather then providing truly market based policies and using national defense only when our national security is at issue. I do remember Mr. Bush saying during his campaign that he was against nation building. But that is exactly what most TN Republicans and Mr. Bush have been emphatically supporting for years. And regarding the credit problem, although some Republicans have recognized the problem for years, most Republicans as a whole seem to be as comfortable with credit as Democrats. The pay as you go mindset is just not as prevalent as it should be. These two issues will continue to have a deleterious effect upon American civil life for the foreseeable future if Republicans do not carry the flag responsibly.

2008-11-03T18:52:00.000-08:00

Judge says bailout passed w/o constitutional authority. He brings up some interesting points.

2008-11-03T18:21:00.000-08:00

Obama says he supports a ban on concealed carry laws. He may have to do more then pass a law to take America's guns.

Who Can I Responsibly Vote For

2008-11-02T06:10:00.000-08:00

As a Tennessee resident, in my qwest to vote for the person I thought most reflected what I believe are correct Biblical positions, I sought info on who was running and what they stood for. Suporting those who are incumbents simply because they are already in office is irresponsible. It was John Quincy Adams who said "Always vote for principle, though you may vote alone, and you may cherish the sweetest reflection that your vote is never lost."
Some candidates such as Mr. Alexander and Mr. Wamp refused to participate in Project Vote. Here is some info I found helpful. I hope it will be useful to you.
To see who is running, click here
To see what they would support if elected, click here. I must say, this service helped me considerably.

Mr. Corker Explains Why He Voted For The Bailout And Is Found Wanting

2008-10-30T03:08:00.000-07:00

In a recent speech, Mr. Corker explained why he voted for the Bailout. He was wrong to vote for the bailout bill and he is wrong about the reasons why most of us were against it. It is morally reprehensible to require Taxpayers to bail out greedy criminally negligent bankers. But I am just as concerned about the debt being passed to our children and the credit mentality Corker supports. Mr. Corker has made some good votes but I sternly disagree with his apparent credit-wise approach. America is in this grave situation because we believe borrowing is the best way to finance everything. The Bible says the borrower is servant to the lender. Borrowing should be a last resort and only when we have the capital to back it up. Corker is exemplifying the tendencies of most politicians-the average Joe does not understand what is wrong with America but those of us up here who hear all this testimony-we know best. Ironic isn't it. A 40 to 1 ratio against the Bailout is approximately what leverage the Bankers were using to hoard profits. And to think they had to go to Harvard to learn how to do this. Corker is not able to make the tuff decisions necessary to be the leader we need. To get through this correction in a stronger way, Americans must learn to save and spend less period. Like Ms. Swartz says, weak businesses must be allowed to fail for things to get better. See this to understand the mentality of the Bankers.

American Business Policy and German Internationalism-how does it play out with American dignity?

2008-10-27T06:44:00.000-07:00

In this time of economic turmoil here at home, isn’t it a blessing VW is coming to TN! Sarcastically or not, I believe this question would be asked by others along with myself. I have wondered, as I have watched the excitement generated by “official” statements and proclamations of how VW will impact Chattanooga and TN, is this all it‘s beefed up to be? And then, being the inquisitive little fellow I am, I started to ponder some questions. Now understand, I am not against prosperity and frugality of tradesmanship. And if something good can happen in the way of manufacturing to help TN and Chattanooga, I’m all for it. But I don’t mind looking at the whole thing in the light of both its pros and cons. Clearly for me, some observations of VW and it’s endeavors within America are in order.

First of all, why is VW coming to TN instead of staying in Germany? I never once during all the hype of the announcement heard this answered. You guessed it. Money, pure and simple. But not only is VW trying to save money by coming to TN, they are betting the American economy will continue to worsen and the dollar will follow suit else they would not be investing one billion dollars into the project. So why should a foreign corporation be allowed to bet our economy will stay weak but yet be allowed to use our system to prosper? Because for right now, this is what American laws allow. Moreover, America is the biggest auto market in the world.
And not only is VW more then energetic to participate in freebies, they are seeking to take part in loans which the US government has so graciously bestowed upon all, foreign or domestic, who would bless America with efficient tech.

I have a bit of a problem with a foreign company betting against America’s success but still being allowed to operate under her protection. Could this not be considered economic warfare against the US to some degree? Could it be this calls for Congressional leadership in imposing quasi-anti American sentiment taxes upon such companies? Or could it be that allowing such companies to operate in America with impunity is a violation of the oath of office to protect our constitution against all enemies? Are not American anti-trust laws in place to protect us from our own companies who would create a monopoly? You could say, much of my concern is how much do we allow globalism to impact our sovereign identity and purpose.

Now, you ask, “what are you so concerned about Albertini? After all, look at the tax revenue which shall fall as manna upon our heads and the peripheral jobs which will be created! Everything is in our ball field.” Well, I know. At least it seems that way. So this brings me to another concern that came to my mind when I heard of VW coming to TN. Why are Chattanoogans and Tennesseeans so exiting about a foreign company coming to America, receiving 500M+ in freebies and asking for our money when the “Big Three” are floundering in their own juices! Why are we rejoicing when a foreigner is able to succeed in America when our own companies can not? I’ve got to be frank with you. I think a lot of my concern comes from the fact that I am a Marine Vet. Deep in my soul it hurts to see America shamed and defeated by a country we defeated some 60 years ago. But I know Germany is different today. It is a wonderful country in so many ways. But still, I have to ask, why can’t the Big Three do what VW is doing? Why are American companies being washed out to sea when foreigners are laying bricks for new plants?

I don’t know all the answers. Perhaps the best answer is to encourage Americans to look deep within ourselves and ask-why did God bless us as a manufacturing base so many years ago while now, it appears, we long for His hand of blessing? I look in the old testament and I read that if God’s people will humble themselves before God, He will bless them. Am I saying Germany is more godly then America? No. But let’s be honest with ourselves. Do we Americans recognize God is supreme over our Constitution, laws and policies, whether we want Him to be or not? Or have we come to believe we can make it without Him and in fact our national motto is no longer-“In God We Trust?” Even if we do allow other religious persuasions than Christianity to dictate our moral and thus legal foundation in America, God’s laws as defined in the bible cannot be subverted or mocked without consequence. Perhaps if God’s laws had their rightful place in America, we would live with the dignity only God can give.

These are just some thoughts I have looked at. I’m not for closing our border to trade against every possible business maneuver. I am however interested in considering the impact of opening our border to economic tensions when the tensions are sought in hope of America’s decline.

How Do You Get Around An Elephant Sitting In The Middle Of The Road?

2008-08-28T05:52:00.000-07:00

Some think you just act like it was never there to begin with-what I call transmuted relevance. This is what Mr. Biden is trying to do about his previous statements regarding Mr. Obama. This video is hard to deal with no matter how you slice it. It is a two-edged sword against the Democrats. It cuts no matter how you use it. If Biden says he was right, he undermines his trust. If He says he was wrong, he undermines his judgment. My concern is, does America still have the spiritual discernment to see what Mr. Obama really is?

What Are African-Americans Saying About Obama?

2008-08-27T21:36:00.000-07:00

Take a look

What Does It Take To Ward Of Our Enemies?

2008-08-27T21:17:00.001-07:00

According to Mr. Obama, who I might mention has no military experience, gut defense spending.

I Knew I Wouldn't Hear Anything New

2008-08-27T20:28:00.000-07:00

But I thought it wise to listen in a bit anyway. I watched some of the Democratic Convention and grew tired of hearing the same old stuff-America's mortgage problems, lack of health care, women's rights, lower standard of living, stronger unions, etc. And then I came across this story and video. Whether or not this video is accurate, it raises questions that remain unanswered to me and I trust to you.

The greatest problem I have with Obama is I don't trust him both because of what I do know about him as well as what I do not know. Obama is the wrong choice period. Mr. Edward's Kennedy's support of him is almost enough by itself to provide fair warning to me.
America's mortgage problem was caused by greed and worthless money. America has the greatest health care in the world but government has made it expensive. Women have more rights and respect in America then in any other country and unborn children are not the right of a mother to kill. America has the highest standard of living. And Unions have killed American competition. The Democrats as a party do not have any right answers for any of these problems. That is the story.

America Needs To Keep Its’ Nose Out Of God’s Business

2008-08-25T20:54:00.000-07:00

The U.S. has its own plan for Israel. It is asking Israel to vacate part of Jerusalem. This is wrong and I fear God will remove His protection from America because of it. God gave Jerusalem to Abraham and his descendents (Isaac and his descendents) not Ishmael. God did make Ishmael into a great nation but Ishmael was not the promised seed through whom god would build His special people. America is playing into the hands of the enemy. It is shameful that Mr. Bush could not show strong leadership and place a capable Christian man in the position of Sec. of State and honor Israel as God has done.

How Important Is Georgia To US International Interests

2008-08-23T06:44:00.000-07:00

Georgia is located north of Azerbaijan, Turkey and Armenia and in between the Black and Caspian seas. There are at least two concerns regarding the area. First is the oil pipeline from the Caspian sea to Turkey, a NATO ally. Second is Georgia argues Putin wants to put the former soviet republics-there are fifteen of them (Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Moldova, Ukraine, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Armenia, Russia) back together but Bush wants to keep them separate. These two concerns are analyzed in this video.

Of course there may be many security issues I don’t know about other than the pipeline. I’m not certain how valid are US security concerns that Russia may try to recapture these break-away republics. Of course the idea of liberty is always a point of contention to Socialist regimes. One of my first thoughts is these are Russian neighbors and Russia is most affected by them, not the US. If our commerce is interrupted that’s one thing. But if we want to force the world to follow liberty, that may be another. One thing we can be certain of, if the US engages Russia in armed conflict, the US will be seen as an instigator in Russia's affairs. The elements must be weighed carefully.

The Danger Of America’s Financial Complacency

2008-08-19T03:31:00.000-07:00

As I consider what has happened during the mortgage crisis this past year, one word stands out of the maze with peculiarity-GREED. As a nation, we look to our elected officials to lead us with financial integrity. Such expectations are not asymmetrical with the hopes leaders have in their followers. This means reciprocally an honest days work for an honest days pay. It also means we should avoid debt. Unfortunately, we receive very little example of either principal from any level of our government. Indeed, failure of either principal lives on in perpetuity by all levels of government and in particular, within the walls of Congress. The profession which is becoming increasing acceptable by all Americans, including many who still believe in hard work is the Fed will always be there to bail us out. America has in essence become a welfare nation. The Fed (us) cannot continue to bail out every business and individual who fails to responsibly accept risk. In the Old Testament, if a man could not pay his debts, his home and family could be sold to pay for his debts. Is it really any different today when every American owes approximately $45,000 to the next generation simply because we refuse to be content with what we have and to pay for what we need when we get it? Do we really believe no one will have to pay the Piper? This graph shows how dramitically US public debt has grown since 1980. This does not include mortgage and credit card debt.

Thank You Justice Barker

2008-04-29T14:46:00.001-07:00

I want to commend Justice Barker for his years of service on the bench. I have admired him for some time as a man who both loves the law and loves God whom he knows has given us our laws. Mr. Barker is a rare individual in our times. He has sought over the years to incorporate his understanding of Christian principles into his jurisprudential philosophy. I met Mr. Barker and spoke briefly with him a couple of years ago after a meeting at which he spoke. I was immediately impressed with his conservative yet fair approach to punishment. He shared my view of requiring criminals to pay for their keep while in prison. The Tennessee judicial system will be impaired by the loss of such a man. Thank you Mr. Barker for loving God and for not being afraid to show that in your judicial philosophy.

Isn’t Our Life Enough

2008-04-12T17:04:00.000-07:00

I have been both amazed and distraught at the lack of leadership in addressing the immigration problem by the federal government. I read a statement in the February 24th Chattanooga Times Free Press titled “Veterans battle to become citizens.“ The efforts and pompous statements of our federal elected officials have accomplished as much as their proponents intended-not too much to rock the international boat. But while the fruitless efforts of those who really do not understand the simplicity and value of sovereignty goes on, those who have been willing to sacrifice their life for a country they wish to call their own so unseemly avoids decent and honorable recognition. It distresses me to read of the soldiers who are not US citizens but yet have given their life for my freedom. There is a criminal in the immigration malaise and I am believing more and more it is Congress whose responsibility it is to safeguard our borders. I do not justify illegal crossings. They should be stopped (literally) in their tracks. But when soldiers defend us while they do not enjoy the privileges of US citizenship, something is terribly wrong with our system. In such a scenario, America has trully forgotten what it means to be a Vet. One honorably discharged Vet said it well, “If what I’ve done for this country isn’t enough for me to be a citizen, then I don’t know what is.”

Are The Blind Leading The Blind Into A New Deal?

2008-03-16T12:45:00.000-07:00

Our current financial problems remind me of the statement I heard an old English banker say-if a banker has to convince people he is credible, he is not. Furthermore, if the blind follow the blind, they're going to . . . well, you know the rest of the story. It is unfortunate those who are leading financial decisions in the U.S. do not adopt the one principal which rises above all others-being in debt is as being a slave. This is a very clear directive. But some refuse to acknowledge the place this rule should have in our nation. They would rather argue their way of debt manipulation will produce better results. If we as Americans do not demand our leaders follow Biblical principles, we will not long have a nation for God’s laws will sweep us away. Failure of the U.S. to recognize God’s laws, will not prevent them from operating. In effect, the Federal government (Us) is placing every man, woman and child into slavery to our lenders-China, Japan, the Arabs, etc. These phenomena broaden the moral hazard Conservatives speak of. Once again, we are allowing our faith to be forced upon the government rather than God. The Republicans are trying to use a little interventionism, but the Democrats want us to return to the policies of Roosevelt which started all this "new deal" mess. Those who borrowed what they could not afford should be allowed to deal privately with the consequences of their error. When an infant attempts to walk, they learn by falling. Some investment banks leveraged their equity 30:1. If a private party wants to help them as a good Samaritan, this is one thing. But to require others to pay for the mistakes of another, is wrong. If the government is to rush in and save the day, Mr. Moral Hazard has entered the Central Bank.

China Uses FBI Crime Statistics To Aid Geopolitical Movement

2008-03-15T02:28:00.000-07:00

China uses FBI crime statistics of the huge US prison population to bolster China’s offenses in Buddhist Tibet as those of a “just ruler.” Though it can be argued America is not harsh enough on criminals, China is adept at psychological warfare and they are carrying it out with fervor. Their desire in this activity is to sift the world’s opinion to justify their civil order enforcements particularly as the Olympics approach in China. These efforts combine with China’s purchases of companies within the US to intimately understand how their opposition thinks. It would appear all efforts of the Chinese are engineered to undermine the supremacy of the US and shift political favor into their hemisphere. Unfortunately, China is aided in its’ efforts by some actions in the US. It is unwise to allow our declared enemy to invest in our infrastructure while they are critical of our society. Parallel in time, it is advisable to encourage China to deal with their people as they see fit but with respect. China is not a democracy and the US will find it difficult to persuade Chinese officials to govern otherwise. Christians should pray for Christians being persecuted in China and help when and how they can.

Supporting America's Energy Independence

2008-03-14T02:08:00.000-07:00

I commend Sen. Alexander for supporting the removal and use of our Nation’s off-shore oil & gas reserves. This vote shows the Democrats are largely responsible for the Nation’s energy problems. Many in this country have gone overboard in their efforts to preserve the beauty of God's creation. God has given us these resources to use and they can and should be used in a safe and practical way for our needs. I find it of great concern we cannot provide for our own energy needs as a Nation. Unlike other commodities such as eggs, oil is currently essential to our national defense and production. A nation which cannot provide for itself cannot defend itself. We should develop cleaner sources of energy. But until we do, we must use what is available.

Media’s College Of Impunitatem

2008-03-11T05:31:00.000-07:00

The situation with Mr. Spitzer brings out the reality of how the media trains its’ leaders and what politics has become-when someone falls into sin, the lions are released upon him. Even FOX, known for it’s conservative flare, joins the pack and mocks the marriage of Mr. & Mrs. Spitzer with no fear of reprisal. Fox calls him the "Love Gov". The Bible describes love as quite different from what Mr. Spitzer has demonstrated. FOX knows the Gov’s encounter had nothing to do with love but yet they use words alienating Mr. Spitzer from his wife. And they do this knowing Mrs. Spitzer has a heritage of faith. Even USA Today identifies this language entertainment as tabloid trash. FOX also does little to emphasis Biblical marriage where a woman embraces the last name of her husband with honor when FOX refers to Mrs. Spitzer as Silda Wall. I should add this plays into an effort by liberal groups including law schools to eradicate God's created order for men and women. Law schools routinely prefer to women over men in their discussions of cases where a women is the business owner, attorney, judge or political figure. These are unsettling facts. How should we view situations like this? The first thing which came to my mind was to pray for Mr. & Mrs. Spitzer and their daughters. These are people with fallacies as the rest of us. I do not try to minimize error here. The Lord knows I am full of sin. But the Media is devoid of leadership while they claim they envision to educate us about facts which we would not otherwise learn. FOX should be ashamed of itself and others with it who rely upon attention-grabbing headlines to draw advertising dollars. A far more honorable headline could read-Mr. Spitzer faces difficulties as news breaks of his encounter with a prostitute. At least most men can relate to the temptations of such a scenario. His encounter is not entertaining; it is hurtful and humbling to those nearest to him.

Does the Establishment Clause forbid recognizing God or sects within Christianity?

2008-03-06T01:27:00.000-08:00

As I read of school shootings, rampant divorce, same-sex marriages and unborn children being murdered, I cannot help but wonder what has happened to America's theological base. Our courts argue religion (any sect or all sects combined) in public life is forbidden by the Establishment Clause, yet our nation is filled with references to dependence upon God. In Case after case, misguided parents attack our responsibility to provide our next generation with moral guidance for their lives and we cower in disbelief because the Courts have defined our understanding of what our Founders meant. America’s Founders were not thinking of God or religion in general when they pressed for the need of the First Amendment; they were concerned one sect of Christianity would be elevated above another and thus dictate their own beliefs. The Danberry Baptist association was concerned a State sponsored Christian sect would snuff their own beliefs out. To which concern, Pres. Jefferson assured them this would not happen. They were talking about a religious sect, whether it be Presbyterians, Catholics, Episcopalians, Lutherans, Anglicans or Congregationalists. The Court's endeavor to equalize religion generally with varies Christian (Jesus was God, He died and rose again for our sins) sects is an ill-fated line of reasoning as Justice Stewart recognized. To bring America back to greatness, we must once again honor God and His word in our homes and in our government whether you be a Lutheran, Church of Christ or whatever. If we take Christianity out of our government, there is no reason to punish murderers, rapists or thieves. For it is from Christianity we learn these acts are against the love we are called forth to have for our neighbor.

Advocates of Gay Marriage Erroneously Argue Evolution Controls Marriage

2008-03-04T23:45:00.000-08:00

Evolution has been a destructive force against the truth of God’s purpose and plan since evolution's introduction by Darwin. Those who want to defy God’s work and defend their own sin seek to use the theory of evolution as a means of arguing for their ungodly agendas. Attorneys for proponents of gay marriage erroneously argued in the California State Supreme court recently gay marriage should receive state sanction because evolution demands it. In essence, they say, the concept of marriage is changing because our view of what it should be is changing. Therein lies their problem; marriage is not a civil institution. Government may regulate marriage by means of a license, but the right to marry and what (man, woman or animal) we marry is directed to us by God, and no court can change God’s plan and purpose. It is what is referred to in our Declaration of Independence as an “inalienable right.“ Gen. 2:24 says “For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh.” This passage says a man leaves his home to be joined to a woman to start a new home. It does not say man leaves his home to be joined to another man. Moreover, Gen. 1:28 tells us part of the purpose of marriage is to produce children. At the risk of sounding to elemental, neither two men nor two women can produce children. These clear directives are what should guide Christians as they battle Satan’s attempts through his human disciples to destroy God’s purpose and plan in creating and bringing together man and woman upon this earth.

Are Supercilious Bureaucrats Playing With Our Children?

2008-02-24T11:23:00.000-08:00

Conservatives in the TN legislature are right to block expanded Pre-K programs. It is not the government's responsibility to train young children; it is the parent’s determination. Moreover, the Department of Education should be eliminated or greatly limited in scope as well as federal educational requirements which are dictated by conditions placed upon States through the spending clause in regards to educational objectives. Education of our citizens is a state matter under the tenth amendment and has little if any Constitutional nexus to any powers which could be drawn from penumbral extractions of either the necessary and proper or general welfare clauses. Although advocates of these programs claim they are voluntary, I sense they would like to make them mandatory. Children are a gift to parents, not government. I differ with Mr. Bush and others regarding this issue. Education started very simple in America. Many had no education whatsoever and were hard-working, dependable and honorable citizens.. These same citizens worked, fought and died for this country to bring us where we are today.
To say the TN legislature or the Fed can do a better job at what parents have been doing since God created man upon this earth seems to me, somewhat supercilious. In addition, the argument which says today’s technology requires the government to step-in and assume parental roles is stale.

The Borrower Is Servant To The Lender

2008-02-22T07:29:00.000-08:00

This passage tells us those who borrow are servants to those who lend. Millions of Americans have borrowed far beyond their means due primarily to their own selfish wants. As a result, and rightfully so, the Piper wants his change. No one should be surprised at this. The government's perusing to bail out greedy and selfish citizens means one thing-Americans will become servants of their government lenders. In essence, the government owns their property, placing these same borrowers into, if you will, serfdom to the king. Is this worth our freedom? Tax credits to buyers of foreclosed homes are not the answer. Those who spent too much must learn to spend less. To get better, we must first suffer through our sickness. Productive ideals stress individual responsibility, not government dependability. Home prices and banks must be allowed to fall until the market is ready to pick them up. If this means a house worth 100K sells for 25K, then this is what will produce an economy not built upon government induced borrowing and inflation. America became a great country not because we borrowed our way to productivity but because we worked hard and were honorable in our dealings with others. We can learn to re-emphasize these two prevailing characteristics.

To Forgive or Not, That Is The Question We Ask

2008-02-21T06:37:00.000-08:00

Sen. McCain is being trounced by the New York Times-a media patriarch well known for its exhaustive potential. Elevated in stature, Mr. McCain is forced to account for who he is. I have often wondered about the Keating Five and what actions the Sen. participated in. Suffice it to say as experience gained through my own political endeavors, I have seen the fallacies which continue unabated in our humanness. We are all sinners and make bad decisions-imprudence if you will. Politics is a challenging environment for the conscience. I am satisfied at this point with Mr. McCain’s prior dealings in relation to the alternative general election candidate. In addition to this, the Republican party generally supports principles more in tune with what I think is right in this world. I question some of what Mr. Cain supports, eg. an endless presence in Iraq. But I sense, at least to some degree he is a man of integrity. And I know he served me well as a POW. Being a Vet myself, I cannot help but respect his tenacity and honor as a young man.

American Courts, American Justice

2008-02-11T17:55:00.000-08:00

If there is one hallmark American justice has become known for the world over, it's the concern we show for criminals. Courts are in fact far more concerned about how they punish a criminal then how they show mercy to the victim. Nebraska decided it was time to get rid of the electric chair. But don't expect them to replace it with the Guillotine. I wonder if they'll find just the right cocktail to ease the pain? Perhaps 40 lashes would work!

Government Employees As The King's Stewards

2008-02-06T04:45:00.000-08:00

I have long been in favor of eliminating public pensions. As a US Senator, I would consider proposing a bill in Congress to eliminate all federal pensions except for active military personnel who served in combat. Pension programs and perks have become a way to entice employees into the public's purse. This enticement however has become a reason to increase the size and responsibility of government. Public employees are in many instances making more then their private sector peers.

Some Republicans Never Learn

2008-02-05T16:16:00.000-08:00

Sen. Alexander will change Sen. Corker's mind if he can. This is what bugs me. These republicans who are spending money they don't have try to pursuade others who don't believe as they do to spend the same money. Shame on Sen. Alexander. If he represents modern Republican conservatism, I don't want anything to do with it. I do not agree with everything Sen. Corker votes for, but on this one, I stand right behind him. I was amazed to see Rep. Cooper, a Democrat voted against this bill but Mr. Wamp and Mr. Alexander voted for it. These two latter men do not understand what it means to be fiscally conservative. I urge voters to replace both Mr. Wamp and Mr. Alexander with more conservative blood.

Albertini To Run For US Senate Seat Held By Sen. Lamar Alexander

2008-02-04T06:26:00.000-08:00

FROM: Albertini For US Senate Campaign Headquarters
DATE: Feb 4, 2008
TO: All Media/Contacts

The Campaign Office of Mark Albertini said today he will run as a Republican for the U.S. Senate seat held by Sen. Lamar Alexander. Mr. Albertini said "ever since I started to think about actively pursuing public service, I have believed I have a responsibility to be a force for positive change and productive leadership in this world. Such change, I believe, occurs through both challenging and cooperative methods. America is facing unprecedented challenges to our prosperity and our security. Our current mortgage crisis has been inflamed by wasteful spending policies in Washington. It is insufficient to do things the way they have been done in the past. America needs leaders who are not afraid to withstand criticism for refusing to increase out National debt or for refusing to vote for pork-laden Bills . The recent attempt to pass a stimulus package at the expense of our children's future is a clear example of why the current leadership is ill-fitted to reign in spending in Washington. America needs leaders who understand what our military lives with. It is time for a change in Tennessee and in America toward a fresher, more conservative, determined and committed leadership. We need leadership we can believe in to improve our economy by eliminating our National debt and supporting business development. We need leadership we can trust to stay a foundational moral course and ensure our children a safe and prosperous life. Americans are yearning to pass on to their children our Homeland and the heritage our parents and founders knew. But they also know this dream is slipping away before their very eyes.

Many of you know where I stand on important issues. You know I believe in cutting our spending and reducing our debt. You know I understand hard work and pride in who we are as Americans has made our economy flourish and become the envy of the world. You know I believe in protecting our sovereign borders and our Constitution against all enemies foreign and domestic. You know I support strong families. You know I believe those who can help themselves should be expected to. And because I am a Marine Corps vet, you know I support a strong military which cowers to no one except the Almighty. You know I believe in the basic values America was once envied for the world over. America has lost much of her prestige in the world because we have turned our eyes toward unfulfilling promises. Our leaders have led us astray from what made us great and awesome as a people. Does this mean America cannot once again be great? NO, of course not. We know better. We have it within our selves to seek our Creator's help and to humbly ask for protection and prosperity . But America needs leadership which has no fear but rather welcomes these challenges.

Therefore, I ask you to join me. Help me to make the changes necessary to turn America around before it is too late. Come with me and help me to be a voice and force for change which the world will not be able to deny."

Is Ron Paul a Reagan Conservative?

2008-01-30T20:47:00.000-08:00

I came across this at BCR. It is too instructive not to share.

What's Right With The House "Stimulus Package?"

2008-01-29T16:58:00.000-08:00

I find it amusing and somewhat penumbral to think the President and others believe they can stimulate the American economy my throwing some money at it. Sen. Corker seems to have some financial wisdom as he is against the endeavor. Mr. Wamp and Alexander, following their true fiscal liberalism favor the proposals. This video of Rep. Cambell gives five very good reasons of why the stimulus package is bad.

Have You Voted Yet?

2008-01-26T05:20:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to remind everyone to vote if you have not yet. Voting is a privilege God has given to us as American citizens. I would even say it is a sin if we fail to learn about our candidates and vote for those who represent what we believe is the most conforming to God’s word. Notice I said God’s word. Even though the Constitution is said to be the Supreme law of our land, if God’s word is contrary to something in our Constitution or law, God’s word must be obeyed. If you live in Hamilton County, TN you can find your early voting location/time here, otherwise click here to find your location in TN. May the Godliest person win. By the way, if you do not accept God’s word as the supreme law in your heart, I’m sorry, there is nothing I or God can do to help you.

How Far Have We Really Come Baby?

2008-01-18T19:30:00.000-08:00

We all remember the old cigarette advertisements proclaiming the new-found liberty American women had gained by earning the right to smoke. You've come a long way baby, the slogan sung. But I wonder, just how far have we come. Or is the question rather, can we ever return?

This clip questioning Ron Paul's electability raises serious moral questions for America. Is Ron Paul hitting the GOP in the ~~Gut~~? Or has the Grand Ole Party gone so far into the woods she has lost her way back home? Do Republicans even recognize conservatism any more? And if they do not, who does?

This is part of the reason I like Ron Paul, besides the fact he served our Nation in uniform-unlike most other candidates except for the very honorable John McCain. He says what needs to be said. I notice Mr. Thompson didn't say to much this time. Nor did any other candidate for that matter.

HT Volunteer Voters

Should guns be allowed in bars?

2008-01-17T02:46:00.000-08:00

Guns, knives or weapons of your choice are no more dangerous then opium when used in the appropriate manner. Efforts by the TN Senate to allow gun-carrying in places which serve alcohol is barely worth my attention-everyone has a right to protect themselves wherever they are unless their purpose of business is to harm others-but my steadfast support of gun ownership rights needs venting. ---------------------------Plus I feel lucky.
Anything, including thoughts which are non-matter can become dangerous when used inappropriately. The problem with socialist thinking is it attempts to rectify an unwanted event by eliminating a subject of matter rather then one’s moral determination. Those who argue guns will stop a criminal from harming another in a bar might also want to outlaw carrying needles contaminated with aids into a bar, because both have the innate ability to kill another human. How do you solve tavern violence? A simple way is to enforce capital punishment by guillotine in the city square. Liberal philosophy has made things far more difficult then they should be in America. In our attempt to accept every lifestyle, we have hurt those who really love their fellow man and would protect them with a gun if necessary.

So They Want To Be Executed Without Any Pain Yah!

2008-01-08T17:56:00.000-08:00

We here a lot of talk these days about how the death penalty is cruel and unusual punishment. We're even having trouble now with using a 3 drug cocktail. We don't even understand what punishment is any more in America. I am in favor of the death penalty. It is wrong for the US supreme court to say men & women under 18 cannot receive capital punishment. My solution to the complaint of pain in execution is rather straightforward-use a guillotine in the city square with the public invited to watch the punishment for crime. The punishment occurs so fast there is not sense of pain-except of course for the knowledge you are certainly to die in 30 seconds. The lesson is plain; you had better make your peace with GOD. The Guillotine "was named after Joeseph Ignace Guillotin (1738-1814), a french physician who proposed its adoption to prevent unnecessary pain."

Barbaric you say?

I assure you it would lower the crime rate.

Do They Run For Principle Or Power?

2008-01-08T09:48:00.000-08:00

I came across this peace and chuckled to myself. I agree with Wamp on many issues. And similarly to myself, he is quite conservative on a lot of points. But on many issues, he does not have leadership backbone to stand against the tide because he is more concerned about personal advancement then principle. Encouraging Fred Thompson to run is one such example. I looked at the roster of elected Republicans in TN who got behind Thompson and I was not impressed. The only problem they have is, Thompson wasn't and still isn't in front of them. As far as I am convinced, Mr. Thompson could really care less if he wins the presidency. He spent more time ridiculing Ron Paul in New Hampshire the other night then he did passionately explaining his own positions and why America is at a tipping point. But of course, Wamp says he came out a winner. This is unfortunate. Is Wamp keeping it hush hush because he doesn't want voters to know what he really believes? I expect a politician to fight for what's right, not to "go along with the crowd." I believe Mr. Thompson went along with the crowd because it was the thing to do for his career. Now Mr. Wamp is calculatingly and symmetrically (to use one of his phrases) shedding his enlightened wisdom which more then 12 years in Congress is supposed to have rewarded him with. He does so I sense in hopes of salvaging any momentum he has in staying in Congress beyond his stated 12 years or of convincing us he should be elected to another office. From my own heart and a little bird, I don't believe he has any confidence in Thompson but he told us we should. At least Wamp admits Thompson was "drafted" to run. Essentially, the tide is turned and Wamp is fighting to be kept from being swept out to sea. Don't look to me to throw him a political life preserver.

Not Even God Can Help Us If We Fail To Help Israel

2008-01-07T04:01:00.000-08:00

The President declared today “If Iran did strike Israel... We will defend our ally, no ands, ifs or buts,”
Though I belief we are involved in many places militarily around the world where we should not be, and there are places we should not go right now, I will always stand to support my Jewish brothers, their people and their homeland. For God Himself has promised to bless those who bless Israel and to curse those who curse them.

Abortion And The Heart Of A Loving Father

2008-01-07T02:53:00.000-08:00

This story from L.A. puts the face of a man on wishes to protect the innocent and defenseless from abortion. I hope this reality stirs your heart as did mine. Men need to stand up for what God made them to be. America's men have given up their responsibility to lead and love their families to the government. Men must rise up to the task and through love for their family, be the leaders GOD intended them to be. I might add this means providing for them by caring for their physical and spiritual needs. We just might find our wives and children honor us and support us in our efforts.

I think it would also help to show what some in America want men to become>>>>. . . And some wonder why radical Muslims look at America and say we are perverse. When was the last time you saw something like this being paraded in a Muslim country?

California Judge Chooses Whales Over National Security

2008-01-04T17:47:00.000-08:00

This post reveals to some degree my position on how man should view the animal kingdom. Over the past few years, there has been an increase of those wanting to recognize more animal rights. In a 2005 Marion county TN animal cruelty case,-though I cannot locate the exact quote-the Defendant's attorney complained dogs were referred to as victims in one testimony during the hearing. Then today, a Federal judge in California stopped the Navy from practicing sonar use in areas populated by whales and dolphins of the California coast. It is claimed by some the sonar injures the mammals. While I don't think we should go around picking of wildlife just for the fun of killing them, animals are for man's enjoyment and use and not the other way around. However, we should care for the animals in our control. If we are going to kill wildlife it should primarily be for our protection or food. But I see no reason why we should alter our military training exercises to keep a whale happy or their hearing in tact even if the sonar does in fact injure them, if there is no reasonable alternative. Sonar is a necessary element of U.S. defense capabilities. If this judge wants to protect something, I'd be happy to see her with an M-16 in her hands, an 80lb pack on her back and a fresh pair of boots humping the Afghan Mountains. Her views would probably do more good there then here.

Will Ameritheocupiditas Choose America's Next President?

2008-01-02T00:48:00.000-08:00

There is a wide field to choose from this year in the Presidential field. Though I am not comfortable telling another how they should vote-I am a firm believer in political independence whether I agree or not-, I have my positions and by no means shrink from them. Through experience, I have found it ill-advised to make up my mind to quickly on a candidate. And I definitely do not choose to support a candidate because a particular Party tells me I should support them. Although I have voted for conservatives (usually Republicans) all my life, I am not wedded to this approach. What I am wedded to is my conscience for conservatism. In truth, I think both major political parties have become almost entirely corrupted by the power, money and influence engendered by what I call Ameritheocupiditas (America's god is greed). Our greed has frenzied our desire for a centralized big (Federal) government and bigger government is more sacred yet. I will not go over all of the candidates. Many of you have heard too much already. What I will say is this is how my political approach works. When I consider a candidate, my pre-eminent concern is are they a Christian? The US Constitution in Art. VI says "no religious test shall ever be required" for a Federal candidate. Well, however you define religious-denominational or saved v. unsaved, I want a leader who bases his approach to life and its' challenges on the scriptures because I believe this is the most reliable source of guidance we have in life. Whether or not this person is "electable" is irrelevant. Noah was not electable nor was Moses, yet they did as they believed GOD called them. John Quincy Adams said "always vote for principle, though you may vote alone, and you may cherish the sweetest reflection that your vote is never lost." This is the essence of one man, one vote. Does this mean I want a Theocracy? Well yes. I mean this is what Christ will establish one day. Will it work with man as the leader? I don't think so.
With the foregoing said, I had been leaning towards Mr. Huckkabee. I became dissatisfied when I learned of his approach to eliminating state debt and illegal immigration. I first learned of Ron Paul through the Blue Collar Republican. I decided to check him out. One thing I found was Paul had a tremendous impact through the Internet. One such use is with the incredibly successful Meet-Up groups. Even Al Jazeera has picked up on this. Overall, Mr. Paul best meets most of my criteria-eliminate Fed debt, wise military use, a Christian, a Vet. I do not agree with everything he says or does, but at this point, I believe he best fits what I think America needs to become great once again. Will I vote for Paul? You will not know. But when I vote, I will know my vote is not lost. If you're truly interested in knowing why I favor Paul v. Thompson, Clinton, McCain or Richard's, make a comment here or at my site, I'll do my best to answer.

A Good Example Of What The US Has No Business Interfering In

2007-12-31T05:26:00.000-08:00

Kenya is erupting in political violence because of recent elections. Scores of poor have been killed and arguments can be made these people should be helped. Although Pres. Bush has not publicly offered any help, I would not be surprised if he does. I would not support any such action. We have no national security issues in the riots taking place there. This type of activity is multiplied hundreds of times throughout the world annually and it does not mean a bomb is at our doorstep. Our allies must realize we will not rush into fight their battles simply because we stand for what is right and GOD has blessed us. Our first priority is to care for US citizens and US soil. If the people their allow the government to be crooked, it's their choice. I do not believe the good Samaritan principles extend to stop this kind of activity, particularly since the US is in deep debt. Countries must be allowed to work through their own rough times. This helps to produce a strong government of the people.
__________________________________
A note on my experience with Kenya-I was in Mombasa, Kenya in 1979 while on deployment with my Marine unit. We stopped for a port call there and did some maneuvers in the jungles. I purchased many nice hand-carved animals while there. The carving craftsman ship was elementary but very hard, heavy and beautiful wood was used.

The Most Wonderful Time OF Year

2007-12-25T01:51:00.000-08:00

What a gracious way to end the year-thoughts of someone who loved me so much he gave His Son to die so I may live. People all over the world wonder if anyone really loves them. Do my parents love me, the young teen asks. A bewildered husband, drawn to cliffs of hopelessness in thoughts of finances and his marriage, does anyone love me he asks himself. I am here to tell you, God loves you. Wherever you are, whatever you are doing. whatever you have become to yourself or others-GOD loves you. That is the message that rings through my heart this time of year. And because GOD loves me, I can love others and make this world a better place. I thing this is part of Solomon's message in Ecc 12:13. For in fearing the wrath of God, we see His love and thus are jettisoned to love our neighbor as our self. And from whom does this message come? Well of course, from the King of the Jews.

Americans are focused now upon who will be our next king, in a sense. We wonder how this new king will lead us. There is only one king I know who will do everything just right-the King of the Jews. Isn't it strange, I was thinking the other day, how the King of the Jews affects people differently. When Jesus was born, as a child, men came to search for Him who was born King of the Jews. And when He was crucified, the Jewish leaders tried to prevent Pilate from giving Jesus this title. My question for you this Christmas is who is the King of the Jews to you? Is He the King of your life? Have you accepted Jesus Christ as your savior? If you have not, and you are not certain you're going to heaven to live with the King, I invite you to become one of the King's own today. If you have any questions about how you can do this, please call me (423-510-1747), I will be pleased to help you see the love of GOD today.

President Still Refuses To listen To Military Commanders

2007-12-22T08:28:00.000-08:00

Gen . James T. Conway, the Marine Corps Commandant, was rebuffed by the President when he asked for a shift of Marines to Afghanistan from Iraq. The Marine's are not interested in nation building. They want to kill the enemy. The President is not listening to his military commanders as he claims and he is inhibiting the Corps' ability to do what it is designed to do-be a killing machine. America is being hurt as a result because our enemies are not being destroyed and we are pre-occupied with containing civil wars. One simply has to observe the operation of the military in the Old Testament to understand armies are meant to destroy enemies and their civilization, not to rebuild their country. The politicians are still running the war-long after Vietnam.

Modern Day Piracy

2007-12-22T08:15:00.000-08:00

Will the US be fighting modern pirates on the high sees around Somalia with high tech boats? The US looking at some avaiable models.

And You Wondered How Things Could Get Any Worse In Iraq

2007-12-18T04:40:00.000-08:00

Turkish troops have now entered the war with Iraq. Turkish troops entered the Seeda Kan area, a triangular area which touches Iran, Iraq and Turkey. They may only be two miles into the northern interior, but they're still in there. This seems to speak to the reality of three distinct people groups in Iraq which require three separate governing dynasties. The Kurds are seen as a separate people from the Shia and Sunni. The officials in Iraq seem to indicate this position. A senior Iraqi military source told Reuters that the operation against the PKK (Turkish Worker's Party) appeared to be limited and was unlikely to expand. If the Kurds are truly part of Iraq, why don't the Iraqi forces attack the Turks? It may be because Bagdad and the US see the Kurds as rebels against a unified Iraq. Turkey however views the PKK inthe same way. The US supports crushing the PKK and considers them the enemy of the US. I can hardly see the logic of this position. I think this mentality is a very good example of why the US civilian planners are so off base, including the President. The United States has no reason whatsoever in getting involved in a cross-border dispute between Iraq and Turkey. What in the world does this have to do with WMD or the 911 attackers? The Kurds see the Turkish peneration as an invasion. And the Turks see the Kurds as pests. And that's all the conflict boils down to. Add to this the reality the US neither has the money nor the manpower to man another conflict. America needs to learn how to keep its' nose out of other people's business when it does not involve our own national security directly.

Turkish/Kurdish Conflict Timeline-Click On Box To See Clearly

British Left Others To Clean Up The Mess

2007-12-17T17:45:00.000-08:00

The man who has been put in charge of Basra as the new police commander, Major General Jalil Khalaf, says British left him with a situation that is close to mayhem. Note Basra is close to the Iranian border. This should be a cause of interest if Iran is attempting to influence Iraqi politics.

Mullen Acknowledges US Efforts In Afghanistan In Trouble

2007-12-16T12:48:00.000-08:00

As US and Afghan forces hunt down Taliban fighters, the Joint Chiefs Chairmen, Admiral Mike Mullen is acknowledging the US mission of destroying the Taliban is in trouble. We simply do not have the resources he said.
I have been concerned about our efforts to destroy the Taliban since the President became preoccupied with Iraq. I believe we need to focus our attention on destroying the Taliban and Osama's followers and let Iraq's ethnic divisions work out their own problems. The key though is the US President needs to do this without saying what he is going to do. You don't tell your enemy what your plan is. If we are concerned about Al Qaeda following us home, I suggest we beef up our security at home, particularly on the borders. We must adopt as the main goal of our military to destroy our enemies, not rebuild their nations

Our Friend Abdullah Walking On Political Eggshells

2007-12-15T03:38:00.000-08:00

King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia invited Ahmadinejab (HT) to join him on the hajj journey to Mecca this Sunday. This is apparently the first time an Iranian president has joined the king in such trek. Considering that Abdullah is supposed to be America's frontiersman on the PG line, one wonders just how close SA is the the US. The SA/Iran relationship has been somewhat strained lately after Ahmadinejab condemned Arab states who took part in the Annapolis talks. Can American Christians accept the Muslim view of Christ-a prophet but not the Son of God? It would seem Abdullah has far more in common with Ahmadinejab and Muhammad then he does with Christ. Perhaps the best way for Christians to interact with Muslims is to show the love of Christ until they are forced to defend themselves.

Think You Could Survive In Palermo Without Pizzo?

2007-12-11T06:18:00.000-08:00

Being of Italian descent, I'm interested in anything that happens in Italy. Many Italians are expressing the same feelings I have for the Mafia. Organized (governmental and Mafiosi) crime gives Italians a bad name. Moreover, my Christian worldview will not allow me to honor much of the practices of the Mafia. However, other practices such as protecting my property and my family earn high marks within my conscience. Moreover, I agree with the question made by the Godfather in the movie with the same name. His wife says to him that the Mafia is evil because they kill people and the government does not. He asks her if she is really that naive. Of course, the government destroys and kills people. Does that make it legal (right)?
Perhaps governmental protocol is satisfactory because it is approved by a stronger force.

Observing Life In His Daughter Changes Scientist's View Of Destroying Life

2007-12-11T05:40:00.000-08:00

The scientist who discovered alternate ways of producing stem cells was encouraged to find a "different" way when he saw the beginnings of his own daughter.

From Christianity To Islam-Where Has America Gone?

2007-12-10T04:26:00.000-08:00

Harvard and Georgetown no longer preach salvation in Christ, but Muhammad has his say. Is Islam accomplishing through money what brute force can't? America's favored Islamic nation state, Suadi Arabia, donated money to American Universities in hopes of spreading the "goodness of Islam." "The rules and precepts that were observed at Harvard . . . stated . . . Let every student be plainly instructed . . . the maine end of his life and studies is, to know God and Jesus Christ which is eternal life, John 17:3 and therefore . . . the only foundation of all sound knowledge and learning." (America's God and Country 281)

Are The French Banlieues Becomming New York Or Is It The Other Way Around?

2007-12-09T03:04:00.000-08:00

Sarkosy's opponent, France's socialist Ségolène Royal says France's banlieues becomming haven of crime like American cities. Two questions-

Does she really have any room to talk?

Does this rhetoric sound similar to American anti-gun vindicators?

The International Push For Gay Marriage Reaches The South Land

2007-12-09T02:45:00.000-08:00

Uruguay approves gay Marriage

Saudis Pragmatic About Iraqi Instability

2007-12-03T07:33:00.000-08:00

Should the US follow the Saudi example? Saudis are building a fence on the Iraqi border because they don't believe Iraq will become stable. Note also they plan on using 20,000 troops on the border. This is something I have advocated doing on the Mexican border.

“The feeling in Saudi Arabia is that Iraq is way out of control with no possibility of stability," says Nawaf Obaid, director of the Saudi National Security Assessment Project. "The urgency now is to get that border sealed."