The Impudent Observer - Global Liberal Issues

DILEMMAS OF DAILY LIFE

Fred Stopsky — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 07:57:16 +0000

Following are some dilemmas people face in their daily lives.

Am I allowed to crack a joke about the death of Michael Jackson?

When is it permitted to wear sneakers during the summer?

Am I allowed to say a word about the right to an abortion in an anti-abortion group?

Am I allowed to say a word in defense of anti-abortion supporters in a group of pro-abortion people?

When am I allowed to tell people on MySpace their ideas are ridiculous and pure fantasy?

Will I receive a bewildered look indicating I am an old fuddy duddy because I have never watched The American Idol?

At which point in time should I begin wearing fall jackets?

Can I tell my wife she would look more attractive if her hair was white?

Should I hold the door open for an old geezer like me?

Should I take leftover butter home with me?

UN Chief Praises Burma Thugs Who Run Nation!!

Fred Stopsky — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 07:51:10 +0000

UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon unleashed a storm of anger from critics who wanted him to take a strong stand while in Burma in support of democracy and freedom for imprisoned leader Aung San Suu Kyi. On arrival in Burma, the UN leader told head thug of the military junta which brutally rules the nation, ‘I appreciate your commitment to moving your country forward.” Huh! Forward where? Opposition leaders are in jail where many are tortured, the people of Burma suffer from both lack of food and lack of freedom. British Prime Minister Gordon Brown stated bluntly what must be done by the United Nations in regard to Burma. “Only agreement to release all political prisoners (and) start a genuine dialogue with the opposition and ethnic groups will give any credibility to the elections in 2010.”

The reality of this movement “forward” was refusal by the Junta to allow Ban to meet with Suu Kyi in prison and silence as regards freeing any political prisoners. The world waits expectantly for the UN Secretary General to tell us about the “forward” movement in Burma.

I AM AN AMERICAN AND PROUD OF IT

Fred Stopsky — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 07:47:57 +0000

I am of immigrant stock, but, for that matter, so is everyone including Indians. My father walked a thousand miles from Russia to Rumania in order to escape death, and he wound up on a ship that took him around Africa to America while living in steerage. When I was a small boy he would take me for walks in Crotona Park in the Bronx at a time when people of all political, social, and religious views would be talking. As we walked, he would mumble, “America, America, it is a wonderful country. Here a man can speak his mind.” My father had no education and spent his life running hole-in-the-wall butcher shops. During the Depression, he would give people food on credit while my mother ranted and raged. She forced him to write down in a book the names of those who owed him money. Shortly before he died, I asked him: “Poppa, whatever happened to the book?” She shrugged his head and told me he threw it away without telling my mother.

I have heard variations of my father’s story throughout my life. They came from poor whites, blacks, Hispanics, drunks, hard working farmers, women of the night, and God knows who else. We Americans come from every corner of planet Earth, and we come in all sizes, colors, financial backgrounds and working skills. We are simply people of this planet who happened, in one way or another, to wind up in America. We are of legal or illegal backgrounds or were born here. I find it amusing to hear people rant about illegal immigrants. How many illegal immigrants do you think came to America?

I have spent time in England, Germany, and France. I must confess to a deep love of Great Britain because I understand how much of my political ideas come from that nation. I do know whenever I am in another country and meet an American, an instant bond of friendship emerges because we share a heritage and memories. Who are we Americans?

Many eighteenth and nineteenth Europeans looked across the Atlantic to America as something special. For a few years, Karl Marx was the European correspondent of the New York Tribune and his columns about the Civil War era reflect a hope that an America was being born that would be different from European nations. He saw no need for Americans to rebel against capitalism because their history was so different and the concept of aristocracy was absent from its past.

However, something happened to this nation during the past half century. We became caught up in the selfishness of people like Ronald Reagan or those like Ron Paul who preached the idea of only be concerned for the self. The gap between poor and wealthy reached heights never before known in our history. In 1800, Americans were probably the healthiest people in the world–as well as being the tallest. Today, several nations have surpassed us in height and our health is declining. We reject the logical idea of national health insurance, we reject the idea of free colleges (I attended City College of New York which was free) and the latest figure reveals among those 18-28, Europeans have surpassed us in the percent who have post secondary degrees.

I still believe in the dream of America. The dream of creating a society in which poverty is abolished. The dream of ending all forms of hate and discrimination. The dream of actually being able to become president of the USA without being wealthy or dependent on those with wealth. I recently have been reading extensively into the life of Abraham Lincoln. With each passing year, Lincoln rises in our estimation of leadership. Thank God he never went to college to get his mind twisted by academic jargon, thank God he never worked on Wall Street and became fixated by the need for great wealth, thank God, he had office hours in which any citizen could see him and discuss problems. As long as we have an Abraham Lincoln in our history, we can be proud that we gave the world something good.

Father Abraham, we are coming.

HEADLINES FROM THE WORLD PRESS

Fred Stopsky — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 07:43:41 +0000

Each day we offer a selection of headlines that appeared in the world press along with our comments.

Singapore, Straits Times: “Burglar Falls Asleep”
I assume this refers to falling asleep on the job.

Indonesia, Jakarta Post: “Puppies And Pussies On Streets of Jakarta”
I know there are pussies on the streets of any town as for the puppies, that is another matter.

UK, The Independent: “Islamic Dentist Dress Row”
I suspect this has to do with wearing the chador while the dentist tries to get at the teeth.

USA, Yahoo: “California Teacher Gives Sex Tapes To 6th Graders”
Why are they waiting so long to give children tapes about things they already know?

Finland, Helsinki Times: “What Do Mosquitoes and Obesity Have In Common?”
They both make the body say ouch!

Sweden, The Local: “Swedish Men Passionate About Fashion”
Male or female?

South Africa, Argus: “Our Parliament Is Boring”
I would prefer a boring parliament that actually passed laws to the clowns who currently are in the halls of Congress.

Australia, Brisbane Times: “Racy Photos Cause Stabbing”
I trust this does not mean that Mrs. Sanford hurt anyone.

UK, Guardian: “Maggots Force Closing Of Hospital Theaters”
I have a hunch a play performed by maggots is more interesting than the Rush Limbaugh show.

North Korea Threatens Missiles-Is It A Serious Threat?

Fred Stopsky — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 07:41:05 +0000

The battle over how to handle North Korea’s escalation of threats continues, but fortunately President Obama is not allowing himself to get sucked into George Bush style rhetoric. North Korea fired several more missiles on Thursday and there are reports that a long range missile will be fired in the direction of Hawaii. Many analysts believe this entire “missile war” derives from North Korean dictator Kim Song Il to use threats and fears to make the accession of his son to power more possible. We simply do not know if there is any serious thought behind this boasting and bellicose threats or is it simply much ado about getting his son installed in the leadership role and nothing more?

Most probably betting on a long range missile will result in winning some money. At this point, the best policy is remaining calm and now allowing North Korea to frighten anyone with their threats. Kim Song Il knows full well if he blunders into attacking anyone, his Chinese allies will cut him off within a moment. He needs China more than China needs him. That reality is the trump card which should result in words, but no action.

Sarah Drops Out -But Into What?

Fred Stopsky — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 07:29:51 +0000

Governor Sarah Palin, the woman who can see Russia across the Bering Straits, announced that she was resigning as governor of Alaska to pursue other interests. It is still unclear if she is serious about transforming the 2012 presidential election into a contest as to which candidate can out-run the other in a marathon race. There are reports the Alaska prima donna will retreat to a mountain top in her home state and prepare running up and down the mountain to prepare herself for the arduous task of being president of the United States. Of course, other reports suggest Ms. Palin will become a librarian and devote the coming years to reading books concerning important issues related to world affairs such as how to whiten one’s teeth or the proper clothes to wear at a presidential reception.

The Governor also made clear to members of the media that is was time for them to leave her children alone. After all, it was the media which forced Palin to bring her children to the Republican convention and it was the media that forced her daughter’s ex father of the child to give up a hunting trip in order to pretend he was madly in love with a Palin girl.

The sad aspect of this story is the reality that Sarah Palin is actually a serious candidate to become president of the United States. Republicans are impressed that she does know the mantra to be used in dealing with any problem– cut taxes, reduce the size of the government, and keep those damn illegal immigrants out of our fair nation. And, definitely invade a nation that poses no threat to America.

Israel Housing Minister Preaches Anti-Arab Hatred!

Fred Stopsky — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 07:19:27 +0000

Ariel Attias, Israel’s Construction and Housing Minister, told the Bar Association in Tel Aviv, that it was time to face the reality that Arabs and Jews must inhabit separate sections of the country because if they live together it threatens the existence of Israel. “We can all be bleeding hearts, but I think it is unsuitable (for Jews and Arabs) to live together.” His argues that Arabs want to inhabit areas where Jews live in order to force them to flee and thus gradually the Arabs can take over large sections of Israel. Member of Knesset, Ahmed Tibi, expressed the shock that any Jew or Muslim should be saying it is incredible that a member of the Israel government regards its citizens as threats to security.

In 1965, I was among the first Jews to obtain a house in the previously all Christian Webster Groves community located in St. Louis. My six year old daughter experienced prejudice because she was the only Jewish girl in the school. I politely went to discuss the situation with a neighbor who told me, “why did you people come to our community? No one wants you here.” We eventually had to withdraw our daughter from her school. I read the words of Ariel Attias in shock. How can this man be a Jew! To be a Jew is to fight against bigotry and prejudice. To be a Jew is to remember that Palestinians are our brothers and sisters, not our enemies. As long as Benjamin Netanyahu and his gang of bigots like Avigdor Lieberman and Attias are in power, there can be no peace with Palestinians. It is time for Israelis to look into the mirror of hate and prejudice and see their reflections.

Turkish Women Up In Arms At TV Show

Fred Stopsky — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 07:19:10 +0000

Many Turkish female rights groups are furious at a new TV program which winds up depicting women as idiots who know little about the world around them. The show, “Oh My Lovely,” has female and male teams. The girls are asked questions such as what does a locksmith do or what is a baboon, and, naturally, there are enough attractive girls in the world who don’t know the function of a locksmith. The task of the boys is to guess which female answered the questions correctly. The approach is similar to the Jay Leno episodes in which he asks questions such as who is Washington D.C. named after and if one asks enough people the question there is bound to be someone who does not know the answer. Show producers blame the failure of schools to educate people as the reason some girls foul up on questions.

It is not surprising to identify ignorant women. Of course, turn around might also be interesting. Why not episodes in which males are asked to answer the same questions while women guess who is the idiot male? This is simply much ado about nothing.

How about a TV show which poses historical questions to producers of TV shows?

US Massive Operation Proceeds In Afghanistan

Fred Stopsky — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 07:08:14 +0000

The long awaited American military effort in Afghanistan to replicate the so-called success of the “surge” is now underway in the province of Helmand and areas which have not seen American or Afghanistan soldiers in years. Operation Khanjar(Strike of the Sword) has poured thousands of Marines into combat with the Taliban in an effort to flood the area with so many soldiers it will be impossible for the Taliban to exert their authority. As General Nicholson notes, “the intent is to go big, go strong, go fast, and by doing so we are going to save lives on both sides.” Initial reports indicate many members of the Taliban are retreating to higher ground.

Unfortunately, the belief that following the success of the “Iraq Surge” will produce similar results in Afghanistan. But, it is still unclear as to the meaning or permanence of the Iraq surge. The surge itself stemmed initially from support of Sunni Awakening Councils which threw their men and arms into the fight against al-Qaeda. No such group exists in Afghanistan and without the support of local groups, no number of soldiers in themselves will be able to consolidate retention of land. As of this point, there is no evidence a functioning efficient government exists in Afghanistan.

Yes, American soldiers can proceed fast, but it is not speed that counts, but the support of the local population.

Saddam Hussein Denied Ties To Al-Qaeda

Fred Stopsky — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 07:44:33 +0000

Former Vice President Dick Cheney continues traveling the nation spouting his claims the invasion of Iraq was justified because Iraq possessed WMD and it had links to Osama bin Laden. When asked why the WMD have not yet been uncovered, Dick emphasizes just because they have not yet been found, that doesn’t mean they never will. FBI interviews with Saddam Hussein have just been released. Saddam said he allowed the world to believe he had weapons of mass destruction because he was worried about Iran and wanted to frighten them into avoiding an invasion of his country. He also termed Osama bin Laden as a “zealot” and never had any dealings or connections to the man or his organization. Ironically, he told the FBI that he was so frightened of an Iranian invasion that he was prepared to seek a “security agreement with the United States” to avoid such an outcome.

We can only wonder how Rush Limbaugh and Ann Coulter and all the boys and girls at Fox News who had daily reports concerning the famous WMD and commentators like Bill Bennett who never hesitated to inform the American public President Bush was correct about Saddam Hussein’s ties with al-Qaeda and his connection with the 9/11 bombing.

Does anyone believe Fox News will carry reports how they misled Americans. Or, should we more accurately say, how they lied to the American public?

Combat Veteran Discharged Because He Is Gay!

Fred Stopsky — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 07:42:13 +0000

Lt. Dan Choi became the first New York National Guard member to be discharged from the service because he admitted to being gay. Choi, a 2003 West Point graduate, and a member of the West Point Knights Out group made up of gays and lesbians who graduated from that institution, believes it would be a violation of the Point’s honor code to lie about his sexual orientation. The “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy according to Choi is “an immoral code that goes against every single thing we were ever taught at West Point with our honor code.” His lawyer, Maj. Roy Diehl commented sarcastically, “they are taking effective troops– and kicking them out , removing them from the force just as effectively as if al-Qaida was blowing them up.”

Lt. Dan Choi spent 15 months leading soldiers in combat and risking his life for his country. Tell me, President Obama, since you never served in the armed forces, do you regard your policy of delay to be immoral since it ends the service of those who risked all for their nation?

FLASH! Rush Exposes MinnIransota Gate!

Fred Stopsky — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 07:29:39 +0000

Although the liberal media which is controlled by Zionists continues to ignore the devious plots of liberals, America is blessed by the presence of that ever vigilant authority on fair play and truth-Rush Limbaugh. The voice of hope for those who wish to preserve America from mongrelization as exemplified by the half breed Barack Obama has uncovered a devious plot by Barack and the Jews– stealing the election in MinnIransota in order to elect still another Jew to the Senate. Only Rush could have spotted the similarities between the Iran election and the so-called election in Minnesota.

1. In both Iran and Minnesota ballots mysteriously disappeared.Is it a coincidence they disappeared in the same manner?
2. The head of Iran is a Mulsim. The head of America is a secret Muslim by the name of Barack Hussein Obama. Is this a coincidence?
3. Fox News was banned from reporting the Iran election. Fox News has been
banned from the White House. Is this still another coincidence?
4. In Iran young girls were used by revolutionaries to get their way. In Minnesota, Al Franken imported young girls from Hollywood and Long Island to sway male voters.
5. The Iranian government hates George Bush, Dick Cheney and Don Rumsfeld because they destroyed the WMD that was going to be used by Iraq, a vassal state of Iran. Al Franken has admitted he hates Bush, Rumsfeld and Cheney. If two leaders hate the same people can we not deduce they are in alliance?

God Bless Rush Limbaugh, a man of personal bravery who risks his over weight body every night because liberals seek to eliminate his voice from the air waves. America needs to ask former Attorney General Alberto Gonzales, a great legal scholar, to head a commission to investigate the fraudulent election in Minnesota.

Send Al back to his liberal pals in Hollywood, the epicenter of fornication in America.

What’s Going On In North Korea?

Fred Stopsky — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 07:27:35 +0000

A few weeks ago the United Nations Security Council imposed further sanctions on North Korea after it tested long range missiles and boasted of pursuing its nuclear weapon program. Yesterday, North Korea fired a host of short range missiles which are part of its ground to missile program. The reality is no one knows for certain what is happening in North Korea since lack of contacts with government officials or military leadership results in a vast array of guessing by so called “experts.” The reality is Western nations, and that includes the UN Security Council, lack leverage on the paranoid rulers of North Korea who spend their time inventing threats to their nation.

The only trump card remaining to the world lies in the hand of China. North Korea depends on Chinese economic assistance to maintain its society. China is trapped in a dilemma. It could bring down the regime of North Korea by halting further aid, but, in so doing, it might unleash the prospect of millions of people crossing over from North Korea as they flee starvation and chaos. Hopefully, there is an middle point at which China can impose sanctions that force North Korean change without resulting in chaos and anarchy. Th ball is in the court of China.

NOBODY ASKED ME BUT,

Fred Stopsky — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 07:17:09 +0000

We offer the views of a 78 year old man who comments on the human condition.

There ought to be a law as to the number of emails sent to your computer.

You are allowed to speak with strangers when getting a coffee refill.

The lack of a human touch is what most differentiates modern life from my youth. In my younger days, there were always nice Irish political bosses to solve your problems.

Swift trips around America do not get any president knowledge of America. Why not return to the office hours of Abraham Lincoln when anyone could speak with the president?

A delightful sight is mom having breakfast with her three sons.

The stock market is somewhat stable but the pain of the unemployed is very unstable.

Summertime and the living is easier since we have fewer clothes.

I wonder how people in 2109 will judge American society which could not figure out how to provide medical insurance for all people although it knew how to place a man on the moon.

I am impressed by the dignity of Mrs. Sanford.

I watched a woman chatting with a man. She had a ring on her left hand. I could tell she was married but not to the man with whom she talked. Whenever he said anything, she would smile and laugh, touch her heart and reach out to touch his hand. That is not the response of a wife.

Few men hug on meeting. Why?

I do not judge those who are dead. If I do, the conversation is a monologue since they cannot defend themselves.

How and why did humans decide to use hand when verbally interacting?

A moment of life’s achievement is when a young child can get into the car without assistance from parents.

I have been eating some incredibly tasty cherries. Now, I know where the human love of sweetness arose.

Amnesty International Charges Israel With War Crimes

Fred Stopsky — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 07:10:59 +0000

Amnesty International(AI) charged that Israel military forces during their invasion of Gaza destroyed thousands of homes in attacks that border on any definition of war crimes. AI urged the Israel government to pledge its military forces will not use artillery, white phosphorous and other imprecise weapons in densely populated areas. On the other hand, AI urged Hamas to cease firing rockets into Israel and attacking innocent civilians. The Amnesty International report raises many questions such as why high precision weapons like tank shells and air delivered bombs and missiles “killed so many children and other civilians.” It is apparent the death of at least 900 civilians in what was supposed to be an offense to destroy enemy military forces should not have also resulted in the death of so many civilians.

Israel military authorities rejected the report’s conclusion and argued it did not reflect “the unbearable reality of nine years of incessant and indiscriminate rocket fire on the citizens of Israel.” This is a valid point, but it ignores that the nine years of rocket attacks did not result in other than a handful of deaths. The issue is not whether Israel had a right to defend itself. The issue is the disproportionate number of Gaza civilian deaths in what was supposed to be a military operation.

HEADLINES FROM THE WORLD PRESS

Fred Stopsky — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 07:05:36 +0000

Each day we offer a selection of headlines that appeared in the world press along with our comments.

Finland, Helsinki Times: “Estonian Island Retreats”
If I was an island and getting closer to Putin Russia, you are darn sure I will move away.

Denmark, Copenhagen Post: “Send Criminal Kids To Boot Camp”
Sure, teach them how to use guns and military ideas.

Egypt, Egyptian Daily News: “I Am A Survivor”
I survived Bush, Cheney, and Rumsfeld. I can survive anything.

South Africa, Argus: “Northern Dogs Nosiest”
Yeah, but they don’t growl with a southern accent!

UK, The Independent: “I’m No Thug Says Burger”
I let myself get broiled and tanned and never put up a fight.

Australia, West Australian: “How Would You Spend $190 Million?”
Slowly and carefully.

UK, Guardian: “How Are You Keeping Your Cool?”
By not listening to Fox News.

USA, NY Daily News: “Mugged By A Bear”
When you are in Missouri, don’t drink Coors or you will get mugged by bears.

Australia, Canberra Times: “Porno For Educators”
Any standardized test.

Mir Mousavi Denounces Iran Election As Illegal

Fred Stopsky — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 07:49:58 +0000

There is an erie quiet in many parts of Iran as protestors gather together in hope of uncovering new ways to protest the brutality of their nation’s government against those expressing their ideas in public. Presidential challenger, Mir Hossein Mousavi, refuses to remain silent and continues openly demanding a new election to replace the fraudulent stealing of the presidency by Ahmadinejad. “It is our historical responsibility to continue our protests and not to abandon our efforts to preserve the nation’s rights.” He wants the constitution respected and rights to free speech, assembly and the press allowed. Former Iranian reform president Mohammed Khatami said the “election” kwas a “velvet coup against democracy.” He noted that while the government press speaks of national reconciliation, protestors still are beaten and imprisoned.

The only response from Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is to continue blaming everything on “foreign interference.’ Every time clerics or government officials make this claim it only reinforces belief within the country that the election was a fraud. The people of Iran witnessed their genuine complaint about an election lead to beatings by the government.

Unfortunately, hundreds are still in jail where they are beaten, and in some cases, there are reports of rape.

US Congressman Urges Settlement Freeze In West Bank

Fred Stopsky — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 07:40:39 +0000

American Congressman Robert Wexler, a prominent political ally of President Obama, urged the Israel government to place a freeze on West Bank settlements, arguing to do so would send a message that Israel is ready to compromise. “A request for a moratorium or freeze in settlement activity that can be mutually agreed upon by the US and Israel in the next several weeks is a tiny, tiny gesture and down payment to make when you look at potentially what is on other side of the equation.” Wexler pointed out if the Israel willingness to compromise on an important issue did not meet with reciprocal gestures by President Abbas, Israel comes out on top as the nation seeking peace. In a sense, Congressman Wexler urged Israel to call the bluff of Palestinians regarding their interest in peace.

Hopefully, Prime Minister Netanyhu will listen carefully to sound advice. A few months of no housing in the West Bank is not a terrible price to pay to discover the seriousness of Palestinian leaders. Wexler also pointed out the Israel media has rarely reported what Obama is demanding of Arab nations such as direct economic links with Israel, cultural and educational exchanges and over-fly rights for Israel airlines.

Now is the time for Israel to demonstrate it is willing to go the extra mile in the quest for peace. That will achieve greater results than invading Gaza.

Pakistanis Shifting Attitudes Toward Taliban

Fred Stopsky — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 07:36:51 +0000

Since 9/1 there has been a split within many Muslim societies between those who regard Osama bin Laden and other groups urging violence as the embodiment of the Muslim religion versus those who believe that Osama and the Taliban are threats to the existence of their societies. Just about every poll of Pakistanis over the past decade has revealed a significant percent which favors the Taliban and distrusts the United States. A recent poll carried out by Socio-Economic Development Consultants in Islamabad reveals a dramatic shift in Pakistani opinions. More than 80% of Pakistanis now regard the Taliban and al-Qaida as threats to their society. The violent behavior of the Taliban in the Swat Valley where they beat young women, forced men to grow beards or killed those who opposed them shocked most Pakistanis. For the first time they saw the true face of the Taliban and it was a shocking sight.

According to political analyst Rasul Bakhsh Rais: “some people had this feeling that Taliban were good people and very religious and they have good intentions and they’re nationalists. But, today the sentiment against the Taliban is very strong because they are a disruptive force. They don’t present an alternative to the modern nation-state. They don’t have a vision for the economy.”

Now, is the time for massive Western aid to help Pakistan construct a modern education system that will wean bright young boys and girls from the oppressive and narrow Taliban education provided in the madrassas.

Coptic-Muslim Clash In Egypt

Fred Stopsky — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 07:33:15 +0000

One of the most common myths spread by Muslims is how their religion treats those of other faiths in a fair and equal manner. Of course, historically, Christians and Jews in most Muslim societies were second class citizens and event their attire was dictated by the government. The Egyptian society includes about 10% who are Christian Coptics. The other day a quarrel between a Muslim and Coptic resulted in the death of the Muslim and the emergence of a mob which burned the homes of Coptics. Coptic Christians are hardly equal citizens in their land since they require government permission to build a church or expand existing structures. Over the past few years there have been several riots against Coptics by Muslim groups.

There are significant differences within the Muslim world in connection to how society deals with those of other faiths. Saudi Arabia is clear it does not tolerate Christians and Jews except if they agree not to openly practice their religion and abandon any thought of building religious structures. On the other hand, there is greater religious freedom in Indonesia. But, the bottom line is that to live in a Muslim society is to be bound by certain religious concepts and to accept that government reflects Muslims, not Christians.

“Uncle Tom” Obama Urges Gay Military Delay

Fred Stopsky — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 07:22:10 +0000

I voted for Barack Obama and believe he eventually will become an outstanding president, but his actions pertaining to gays and lesbians lack any semblance of decency. In a recent press conference, Obama urged patience and noted that African Americans had to wait. Secretary of Defense Robert Gates on Tuesday said he wanted to make the law prohibiting gays serving n the armed forces “more humane.” “One of the things we’re looking at, is there flexibility in how we apply the law?” The chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff have cautioned not proceeding too quickly but building support for any change among the officers of the armed forces.

In 1952, I worked on the US 7th Army integration plan to mix Negro and white soldiers. President Truman had issued a direct order to immediately proceed with integration. At this time, American soldiers were fighting in Korea and enduring ten times the casualties that have resulted from wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. We proceeded with the executive order. Yes, we had riots and disturbances both from enlisted men and officers. Anyone resisting integration was simply told they either accepted the orders of the President or they would have orders cut within twenty four hours for front line combat in Korea.

There is absolutely NO EVIDENCE members of the armed forces would be upset at having gays or lesbians in their ranks. Frankly, many currently know there are such individuals in their ranks. It is time for Barack Obama to issue and executive order ending discrimination against gays and lesbians. If you don’t like it, leave the service.

Iraq Pullout Or A Moment Of Freedom Before Return?

Fred Stopsky — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 07:20:07 +0000

American troops have withdrawn from the streets of Iraq cities, but the beat of violence goes on and on. The pullout was celebrated by al-Qaeda and other militants with a twenty four gun salute of bombs that left 33 dead in Kirkuk and 92 wounded. Iraq had a holiday to hail the event, but for some reason militants believed that meant they had permission to bomb at will. Prime Minister Maliki said it was “an offence to the Iraqis” to believe that once foreign troops left the cities, there would even more violence. President Obama warned “make no mistake, there will be difficult days ahead. We know that violence in Iraq will continue.” Words of warning or a statement about the future?

The violence has everything and nothing to do with the presence of American troops in cities. Prime Minister Maliki has failed to integrate Sunnis into either his government or the armed forces. The success of the Awakening Councils has ended because Maliki has refused to work with its leaders in a new coalition of concerned Iraqis. There will be violence until Maliki gets serious about uniting the nation.

HEADLINES FROM THE WORLD PRESS

Fred Stopsky — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 07:18:00 +0000

Each day we offer a selection of headlines that appeared in the world press along with our comments.

Denmark, Copenhagen Post: “Mixed Results From Pepper Spray”
Have you tried salt?

UK, The Independent: “757 Near Misses With Lawnmowers”
Is that missing the grass or people?

Sweden, The Local: “Docs Clears Over Misplaced Colon”
Did you say this goes in the stomach or arm or brain?

Australia, Sydney Morning Herald: “Devil Puts On Brave Face”
What else can you do when suddenly Rumsfeld and Cheney show up the same day?

Israel, Jerusalem Post: “Hip Hop Shabbat Brings Back Youth”
Where in the Torah does it say hip hop is kosher?

South Africa, Mail & Guardian: “If You Can’t Beat Them, Blow Them Away”
American strategy in Afghanistan?

Czech Republic, Prague Post: “Porn Identity”
They got me again and I’m the governor of South Carolina.

UK, Guardian: “Vicar Held In Sham Marriage Inquiry”
Is it the vicar who is sham or the marriage?

South Africa, Argus: “Sick Turtles Rescued”
They just pulled in their heads from the world.

PLACES GOVERNOR SANFORD CAN FIND TRUE LOVE

Fred Stopsky — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 07:17:27 +0000

We believe Governor Mark Sanford is entitled to find that true love he so desperately seeks in life. Following are some suggestions for the moral leader of South Carolina.

A street corner in New Jersey containing ladies of the day or night.

A conservative Republican women’s convention.

An Alaska moonlight cruise with Sarah Palin.

A Mexican rendevous with Martha Stewart.

A Jewish Princess encounter at a bah mitzvah on Long Island.

A strip joint in Harlem.

Crossing over at a Gay convention.

24 hours on an Internet porn site.

Becoming Ann Coulter’s lap dog.

A night at the opera with a big breasted opera singer.

MISTAKEN JOBS FOR PEOPLE

Fred Stopsky — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 07:03:09 +0000

Following are jobs that certain people should never take.

Mitt Romney: Cast member of Jon Stewart show.

Oprah: Director of Ms. American pageant.

President of Harvard: Principal of a high school in Harlem.

Ron Paul: Move On Coordinator

Osama bin Laden: Cantor in Orthodox Jewish synagogue.

Kobe Bryant: Coach of New York Knickerbockers.

Hillary Clinton: Manager of a wash and dry store.

Rush Limbaugh: Advisor in State unemployment center.

Yankee Fan: Bat boy for Boston Red Sox

Rudy Giuliani: Sqeegee man working cars existing Holland Tunnel.

How To Provide Free College Education For ALL!

Fred Stopsky — Thu, 02 Jul 2009 07:01:49 +0000

In the 1930s and 1940s when I was growing up, New York City had several prestigious colleges that were free to all students. In the aftermath of World War II, the G.I. Bill of Rights provided all veterans with paid tuition, free textbooks and a stipend for living expenses. But, in 2009, with the immense wealth of the United States college costs are zooming out of the reach of not only poor students, but many in the middle class. Barack Obama can find a trillion dollars to fix banks and the stock exchange, but there is nothing for college age students. Recent reports indicate that those in the age bracket 18-25 in the United States now rank tenth among students in other nations who have obtained a post secondary degree.

Let me suggest two strategies to provide free education for all Americans.

1. All graduates of high school would be offered the option of being provided a free college education including payment of all tuition, books, fees, and a monthly living stipend. In return the individual would contribute one to three percent of his/her income for the rest of their working lives. Money collected would go into the “Get College Now, Pay Later” fund which would accumulate these funds to pay the ongoing expenses of the program.

2. Any student who graduates from high school would be offered a free college education in return for “Public Service” for two years. Students could work in forests, urban area renewal, early childhood schools, elderly homes or even go overseas to work in schools needing teachers. Participants in the program would have tuition paid, textbook and fees paid, and receive a stipend for living. They would also have the option of two years of military service.

These programs offer an opportunity to compel middle class land poor youth the prospect of huge debts in order to obtain a college degree. If in the midst of Depression and war, the United States could offer free college education, certainly this could be offered in modern times.

Please write your Congressmen in support of these ideas.

HEADLINES FROM THE WORLD PRESS

Fred Stopsky — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 07:51:36 +0000

Each day we offer a selection from headlines that appeared in the world press along with our comments.

Australia, Canberra Times: “Woman Who Stole $43,000 Has Extreme Stress”
Is the stress from stealing or spending or not being able to spend?

Denmark, Copenhagen Post: “Could Ban Buying Sex”
This will hurt a large number of men and women who use sex to get nice things in life.

Kuwait, Kuwait Times: “Anti-Smoking Drive Targets Grooms”
I guess women can puff away since there is always another woman in the harem.

Saudi Arabia, Saudi Gazette: “Holy Mosques Gear Up For Pilgrims”
Local people can go to the unholy mosques.

Canada, Toronto Star: “Sheep Farm Sold- Owner Deported”
Just exactly what was he doing with those sheep when no one was around?

USA, Newsday: “Garbage Truck Kills Woman”
There is something smelly about this story.

Sweden, The Local: “Clinic Sterilizes Wrong Patient”
Oops…!

Yemen, Yemen Times: “Yemen Will Not Send Troops To Somalia”
Whew! That takes a load off my mind and the minds of people in Somalia.

Israel, Haaretz: “Israel Agrees To Work Towards Settlement Halt”
Turkey, Hurriyet: “Israel Approves 50 New Houses In Settlements”
No Comment.

Britain Abandons Identity Card Scheme

Fred Stopsky — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 07:49:54 +0000

British Home Secretary Alan Johnson announced the government would not implement a trial plan to compel workers at Manchester Airport and London City airport to carry ID cards regardless of their desire for such a form of identification. He also made clear there would not be any attempt by the current British government to compel citizens of the nation to wear any form of identify card. “Holding an identity card should be a personal choice for British citizens– just as it is for a passport.” Johnson said if any future British government should implement such a program it would be best be the result of legislation voted in Parliament rather than a decision by a prime minister.

Mr. Johnson indicated he might be willing to give those over the age of 75 an Identity Card. As a 78 year old, I find this last suggestion rather insulting. Believe it or not, Mr. Johnson, those of us over the age of 75 actually know our names, addresses and phone numbers. I suggest if anyone needs an identity card it would be members of Parliament.

Republicans Lose- Minnesota Wins

Fred Stopsky — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 07:33:34 +0000

The Supreme Court of Minnesota finally put an end to the Republican charade in the state which has prevented a duly elected senator from taking his seat and working to address the needs of Minnesota. The court unanimously ruled Al Franken the victor after former Senator Norm Coleman devoted eight months of delay and obstruction tactics in order to prevent Democrats in the US Senate to have 60 votes. This episode highlights the decline of the Republican party and its inability to place nation over its own desires. In 2000, Al Gore graciously accepted a vote which many believed was fraudulent, because he would not compel his nation to endure months of bickering and divisiveness. He could have gone through the same process in the state of Florida that Norm Coleman forced is state to endure, but Gore is an individual who places nation before self.

The past eight years have witnessed a Republican party which refused to reach out in a gracious manner to Democrats and work in a collaborative manner during a time President Bush insisted was critical to survival. In 1941, Franklin Roosevelt asked his defeated Republican candidate, Wendell Wilkie, to serve as his envoy in many areas of the world. Not once did George Bush reach out to Al Gore and involve him in opportunities to serve the nation. Bush ran a divisive administration which even stooped to claiming a former senator who had lost both arms and legs fighting in Vietnam was soft on terrorism.

The Republican party has sold its soul for votes and used obstruction in an effort to prevent the American people from having a government which serves its needs. I assume if Norm Coleman ever ran for anything in the state of Minnesota he would be happy to obtain 10% of the vote. Now, it is time to send the same message to obstructionist Republicans in government.

Israel Government Plays Word Games With Settlements

Fred Stopsky — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 07:27:48 +0000

There is an ancient Arab legend entitled, “An Appointment in Samarra.” According to the legend, a servant went out one day and saw Death in the marketplace. He rushed home and told his master. His master feared Death had come for him and fled to the city of Samarra. The servant went back to the marketplace and criticized Death for frightening his master. Death replied he meant no harm, he was just passing through because he had an appointment in Samarra.” The state of Israel is like the merchant, it is fleeing headlong into an appointment in Samarra. The Israel Defense Ministry announced it was approving construction of 50 new homes. The houses will be built for the relocation of 200 settlers from Migron, a wildcat settlement built without official permission.

British Foreign Minister David Miliband exploded by saying “settlements are illegal under international law and they are a major blockage to peace in the Middle East. This is the worse possible time for new settlements.”

According to Prime Minister Netanyahu housing will only be built for “natural growth.” So, a group of people develop a settlement illegally and they are now entitled to housing under the guidelines of “natural growth.” This stinks to high heaven. Unless the people of Israel cease this stupid rush to stupidity, they are doomed to an appointment in Samarra.