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Keeping One’s Focus

by Bob Pappas,

On this day those not-so-humble few who claim the title, “US Marine” can justifiably take a moment to reflect on and extol the glorious past of the greatest fighting force the world has ever known; and be confident in the knowledge that as long as there is a U.S. Marine Corps, Americans will live free. 

On that note, never since the foundation of this nation has freedom been under assault like what is presently underway in the halls of government.  Never in history has a U.S. President so openly eschewed, despised and condemned his own country; never have Democrats in Congress been more openly treacherous and hostile to free markets and by extension to freedom itself; never has there been a more open assault by the media and education on the moral and ethical foundation of this nation; and, never in history has the stage been set, perhaps naively and unwittingly by the lemming public, for its own demise.

House passage of the Health Care Bill in both substance and manner is illustrative of just how out of touch and corrupt are Democrats in Congress; and how out of touch they are with the American people. They obviously did not pay attention to or take a lesson from last summer’s Town Hall meetings and the recent loss of two governorships. No doubt their allies in the media,  where journalism is dead and propaganda reigns supreme, played a role. The outrageous behavior of the Congress and the Obama Administration is worthy of one thing: to be “crushed.” Never forget! Democrats have revealed themselves as the socialists that they are!

On the international scene, Obama continues his dalliance with the devil within while insulting the memory of Ronald Reagan by not even mentioning him in his speech on the occasion of the dismantling of the Berlin wall. Evidently Obama does not consider the destruction of the “wall” an important historical event since he keeps busy with parties, golf and twiddling his thumbs while Afghanistan “burns” and his Nobel Prize turns putrid. What is equally evident is that Obama and the Democrats are working as hard as possible to bring about the collapse of the United States from within. 

Contrary to transparent attempts by some, even within the vaunted Fox News Organization to kiss-up to Obama by giving him too often, a pass, Obama knows exactly what he is doing.  He is working with all his energy to carry out his promise to “totally change the economic system” in the U.S., and the world; and should he and they succeed, all citizens can kiss freedom in this country “goodbye” as freedom has been known for over two hundred years. But, if the majority, that is, conservatives, resist and vote, the political left will not succeed.

Last spring some ignominious Marine Lieutenant Colonel wrote and was published in the Marine Corps Gazette whining about the voting pattern of the majority of Marine Officers as being the “Republican Guard.” What an inflammatory statement! On the other hand, assuming that they do vote Republican, it is likely because traditionally, the Republican Party has been the party of “conservatism,” unabashed patriotism, and is both morally and fiscally supportive of Marines.

Happy 234th Birthday Marines! Thanks!

Semper Fidelis

Note: I am a conservative, political independent

Copyright © November 9th, 2009 by Robert L. Pappas. With proper attribution, this essay may be quoted and redistributed. It may not be used in any way, in conjunction with any advertisement without the author’s expressed written permission.

Muslim in Sheep's Clothing

by Bob Pappas

Those watching events at Fort Hood have come face to face with the reality of Islamic jihad in America. No doubt excuses will explode with every possible defense of the indefensible, they tell  us that Hasan was a patriotic American who because of harassment by some in the Army was forced to kill a dozen unsuspecting soldiers; and was therefore justified in his evil behavior. Those idiots are as evil and full of hatred as “terrorist” Hasan is.  Patriotic?! Barbra Streisand! About as patriotic as Jane Fonda  and John Kerry.

It should come as no surprise that arguments of that ilk will emanate from the political left. All the while Obama tries to spin it as GW Bush's fault, notwithstanding it was likely his “dithering” about Afghanistan that pushed Hasan over the top, one way or the other.

If memory serves one correctly, and it should, Obama apologized to the world for America's vigorous defense of itself. In that context, Hasan's expectations were evidently elevated to unrealistic heights and he  subsequently felt betrayed that Muslim apologist and sympathizer Obama had not followed through on timely delivery of his oft stated pledge to immediately withdraw U.S. forces from the Republic of Iraq, to ostensibly focus on the “overseas contingency operation” in Afghanistan. A major but never mentioned issue for Islamists is the presence of foreign infidels in their “holy” lands. It was for that reason that the late (in my opinion) Osama bin Laden and his “friendly” band of jihadists opened the “holy” war against the “infidel,” “the great Satan” in the first place. Hasan is merely one of Osama’s mindless lemmings, and Obama a sympathizer, given Obama’s naturally spoken, “Muslim faith.”

Obama's “dithering” as it has been put, should come as no surprise given that he is likely stalling until after he receives the award of the Nobel Peace Prize to announce his decision, which incidentally may or may not be to increase force levels in Afghanistan.  Consider this: how would it come across for Obama to commit additional forces to Afghanistan shortly before or at the same time he steps up to ‘kiss the rings” of the blithering idiots who awarded him the Prize?

In baseball parlance, Hasan’s was American jihadists' “strike one” in the “Ubeturass,” World Series

Semper Fidelis

Copyright © November 6th, 2009 by Robert L. Pappas. With proper attribution, this essay may be quoted and redistributed. It may not be used in any way, in conjunction with any advertisement without the author’s expressed written permission.

Sex in High Places

by Bob Pappas

Most Americans probably know Dave Letterman even while they watch other shows.  His tortured wit and always acerbic jibes at his favorite political targets albeit a stretch to do so, is characterized by his late night audience as entertainment.  In a recent New York Post article, Andrea Peyser did a good job of eviscerating Letterman and called on CBS to dismiss him. Most may agree, but what Ms. Peyser doesn’t know, nor do I, but cannot help but wonder is whether the “bosses” are as guilty as Letterman and are loathe to take dismissive action against their biggest money maker.  We’ll see how that plays out.

Before we get too haughty about Letterman, keep in mind that the nation had a President who though impeached was not removed for behavior equally noxious and who by his own admission did it “because he could.” People, including women in high places are subjected to all manner of sexually solicitous propositions, and given her beauty one cannot help but wonder now about the motive of Letterman’s attack on Sarah Palin.  He probably made a pass at her expecting her to swoon and she stiff armed him. 

Whether or not CBS takes any action “Vis a Vis” Letterman’s behavior remains to be seen, one thing is certain, an alarming level of depravity has touched many in the stratospheric realms of entertainment and politics.  Massachusetts Representative Barney Frank with a male prostitution ring operating out of his basement, Bill Clinton philandering with a young woman half his age, Jesse Jackson and John Edwards with their respective mistresses and love children, Larry Craig’s “wide stance” (to attract attention for sexually perverted purposes) in an airport restroom, and Mark Stanford’s bizarre affair with his Argentinean soul mate, are but a handful of examples of what is potentially only the tip of the salacious iceberg.

The oft stated phrase, “there’s plenty of blame to go around” is fully applicable here. Given the full court press by the progressive secularists and cohorts in the media, education and politics, it should come as no surprise that the state of morality in the United States is in precipitous decline, aided and abetted by the tepid, even tolerant response by the Church. While the political left shamelessly leads the amoral charge, there is tacit complicity among too many social “conservatives” lest they be literally caught with their pants down and be branded across their backsides with “HYPOCRITE,” a word that would be a badge of honor for liberals in similar circumstances.

The truth is that few have not engaged in some dalliance that would be embarrassing in another era where “shame” was something to be avoided.  But now, unless one has had an affair, generally with a member of the opposite sex (except Barney Frank) mixed in the moral decadence that flourishes in Hollywood like maggots on rotting flesh, one has not come of age.

American society has been long on forgiveness and that is as it should be when one humbly seeks it, but on the other hand, when one in the public arena knowingly embarks on sexual adventures whether or not there is an expectation of being caught, then proceeds to make light of it is nothing short of sick. And those who continue to watch Letterman without feeling a need to throw up should seriously consider checking in to a community mental and spiritual health clinic.

Semper Fidelis

Copyright © 100609, by Robert L. Pappas. With proper attribution, this essay may be quoted and redistributed. It may not be used in any way, in conjunction with any advertisement without the author’s expressed written permission.

Military Health Care and Liberal Ignorance

By Bob Pappas

Among liberals are those whose argument about universal health care with this retired military member is, “you enjoyed ‘free’ health care while you were in the service, and continue to have ‘free’ care now that you have retired.” They lump in other retirement benefits that accrue to military members whose service may span between twenty to fifty years, then attempt to draw an analogy to universal health care.  One must conclude that such a line of reasoning is where the term “mindless liberal” has roots.
 
The following is for the non-military readers who have erroneous, pre-conceived ideas and no actual knowledge of military service and compensation. 
 
By way of a short background, most, but certainly not all Americans who choose military service are endowed with above average patriotism. If not before they embarked on their military “adventure” by the time they have been in boot camp for a few weeks they would have had explained to them and observed reasons to understand the nature of their commitment. It is not long before they are imputed with the understanding that they are operatives for national civilian authorities, both elected and appointed who exercise the elements of national power ostensibly on behalf of people of the United States of America; they are subordinate and subject to the orders of the President and military officials both as to location and mission; but, as a practical matter combat it is not about the President, the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the military branch, command or unit, combat is about ones platoon, section, fire team, and ones “buddies.”
 
No doubt there are those who join the military out of a sense of duty or obligation to serve ones country, and may be further induced by a bonus, or a promise of education, health care, travel, adventure, and/or camaraderie. There are also likely many that join for some negative reason such as to escape boredom, home, a broken romance, or as a deal with a Judge or Sheriff; and, in the words of one, “where else can a woman work where the ratio of men to women is so favorable?” Oh, yes, I almost forgot, and for pay, such as it is.
 
The inherent nature of military service is such that for most there are frequent and/or lengthy separations from home and the constant specter of not coming home alive, a factor shared by those in law enforcement, firefighting and “spooks.” The danger is generally understood and those who serve absent the draft do so voluntarily or out of a sense of duty and love of country.
 
With that brief introduction, Military compensation is the system devised to sustain a force structure that meets the Nation’s security requirements. It is reviewed every four years by a select group of experts who, by means of formulas and subjective measures compare and contrast military compensation to civilian pay and benefits to arrive at a rough equivalency.
 
Included in their calculus is the value of health care which as a matter of fact is part of the Government’s cost of doing business.  Stated another way, the military services incident to the Constitutional role of the Congress and President, provide medical care for service members and their families. This is because it is imperative that service members be fit for duty or treated and restored to duty when injured, and for their families to be cared for as a matter directly related to a service member’s psychological readiness. 
 
Military Service, unlike civilian life is not socialist as some assert, on the contrary, it is an absolute dictatorship governed by Title 10 US Code. That any informed person would point to military health care as somehow illustrative that the government has long been socialist reveals a level of ignorance that is breathtaking.  For those readers who simply do not know, and contrary to their equally naïve notions, military compensation is not a gift, military compensation is earned!  For those in the know, there is not enough money in the Treasury (forget the fact that Obama has drained it for generations to come) to compensate military members for what they are required to do incident to their service.
 
TriCare for Life is a component of compensation for career length service that grew out of promises made by the military services as an inducement to serve. That inducement was used extensively following WW II and the entire Cold War but military members with career length service found that despite the promises, they were required to buy insurance or at the least supplemental insurance to cover health care costs that were provided outside the military health care system. That came to a head when Colonel “Bud” Day took the case to the Supreme Court and lost. To its credit however the Republican Congress enacted TriCare for Life which effectively fulfils the obligation. 
 
Now however, Obama, his Administration and the Democrat Congress are reported to be planning modifications to TriCare for Life that would levy taxes on that earned benefit to help pay for unearned universal health care.  So, in addition to having earned health care incident to service, under the Obama/Democrat plan military members will be required to pay additional taxes to pay for those who have earned nothing. 
 
Despite their best effort to disguise this monstrosity as health care, it is not.  It is Obama’s main effort combined with successive, obscene “stimulus packages” to undermine and destroy the economic foundation of the capitalistic, free market economy that has made this the strongest economic and military power the world has ever known.

No doubt there should be a health care safety net where appropriate, but the obscene piece of proposed legislation that Democrats and Obama are creating is worthy of a nothing less than a stake through the heart.
 
For those who care about freedom keep the pressure on your Senators and Representative.

Semper Fidelis

Copyright © 100209, by Robert L. Pappas. With proper attribution, this essay may be quoted and redistributed. It may not be used in any way, in conjunction with any advertisement without the author’s expressed written permission.

“Jeremiah Wright” in the White House

By Bob Pappas.

Glen Beck, a radio and FOX TV host in a recent discussion on Fox and Friends made reference to Obama as a “racist.” Aside from considerable evidence that it is so, the political left immediately went more nuts, came unglued and a group, “Color of Change” co-founded by now former White House, Green Jobs Czar, Van Jones, a self-described communist, initiated a campaign targeted at advertisers who advertise or might advertise on the Beck TV show.

To the extent that they have succeeded in signing up a large number of major companies it is alarming, not because one may agree, but because those advertisers are actively engaging in an indirect form of censorship and trampling of First Amendment rights. To learn more about the boycott follow the link to: “Defend Glen” at: http://www.defendglenn.com/advertisers.php. This website and others present an opportunity to push back at the Color of Change and other anti-1st Amendment rights liberals.

There is no advertising revenue keeping this keyboard active anymore so than the millions who have stood up to the attempt by the political left to cram the Democrats’ socialist agenda down mainstream America’s collective throat. This comes because it is right to shine the light of truth on the hypocricy of “liberal” drivel about racism, and is an issue about which every American who values freedom of speech has a stake.

Wasn’t it Obama’s Attorney General, Eric Holder who said during an interview on ABC:

“Though this nation has proudly thought of itself as an ethnic melting pot in things racial, we have always been, and we, I believe, continue to be, in too many ways, essentially a nation of cowards?”

Had I not read Obama’s book I might have thought Beck was imputing racial biases where none exist. But, having read the book, Dreams From My Father” A Story of Race and Inheritance, it is evident that Obama has deep seated racist biases that arise out of his personal experience wherein most of his waking moments were, perhaps remain, like Michael Jackson but in a political way, devoted to coping with the color of his skin. At his first press conference following the inaguration, he referred to shelter dogs as “mutts, like him.” And, as recently as September 8th, he alluded to his racial discomfort in the speech to school children, “There were times when I was lonely and felt like I didn't fit in.” Well, Mr. Obama, that “…lonely and felt like I didn’t fit in” feeling is shared by virtually every human being from time to time, but most get over it.

Wittingly or otherwise, Obama continues to be consumed by the racist malady that arose early in his life. I should be more empathetic, like Sotomayor is supposed to be as a Justice on the Supreme Court; but, I’m not, because like most, I got over it. 

Obama’s racism blared loudly through in his comments during the Cambridge Police vs. Harvard professor Henry Louis Gates Jr. incident:

"I don’t know – not having been there and not seeing all the facts – what role race played in that, but I think it’s fair to say, number one, any of us would be pretty angry; number two that the Cambridge police acted stupidly in arresting somebody when there was already proof that they were in their own home." (underlines, mine)

If Obama were not racist, “what role race played” would not have been an issue; and he went on to say, “any of us would be pretty angry,” which assumed that police actions were racially motivated; about which Obama admitted in his statement that he had zero information. Secondly, he assumed that it was stupid to arrest a professor, again admittedly, without regard to knowledge of the facts; this from a Harvard trained, Constitutional lawyer. Either Harvard failed or Obama is a racist; actually, it’s both.

In short, Obama’s projection of racist motivations onto others lays bare that deep seated, unsavory affliction in himself.  Further, he allows his personal racist biases to spill over into public policy. The entire “spreading the wealth around” socialist mantra is motivated by that underlying racist bias.

Beck is right (and he is also correct), Obama is a racist no matter how hard Jimmy (who called Obama, “boy” at the Democrat convention) “Caata” tries to redeem himself (for the Convention comment) while attempting to divert attention from the fight over Obama’s socialist agenda. On that subject, Obama is by definition, a socialist, watch what he does, not what he says. Those who are mislead by his carefully crafted rhetoric had best awaken to the reality that what he is doing could reduce this nation to a totalitarian dictatorship in a flash; and that would cause a major, if not violent backlash.

OBAMA AND HIS SOCIALIST/LIBERAL POLICIES MUST FAIL! And patriots are going to help him succeed at that.

Finally, the next time we decide to protest we’ll fill the Mall and every street leading to the Capital. Do you think Obama, the propaganda arm in the minor networks, and Gibbs will then continue to say, “these were not mainstream Americans?” Here’s the real question, do you think they care?

Semper Fidelis

Copyright © 091609, by Robert L. Pappas. With proper attribution, this essay may be quoted and redistributed. It may not be used in any way, in conjunction with any advertisement without the author’s expressed written permission.

The Debate is Not About Health Care

by Bob Pappas

Succinctly put, socialism is government control of the means of production and distribution.

Communism is socialism taken a step further. Communism is totalitarian, or as Lenin put it "the dictatorship of the proletariat." The proletariat (working class people) supposedly dictate how things are to be and eventually the society becomes totally classless and anarchistic. In the interim, en-route to that utopian state, the proletariat carries out its will through representatives who in turn have operatives that carry out the dicta of the "proletariat."

Simplified theoretically, a socialist government is of working class people, by working class people and for working class people and owns all property on behalf of working class people. Everyone works for the proletarian government whether they want to or not and that government in turn pays a pittance and regulates all aspects of life and death. 

Karl Marx, one of the fathers of Communism, put forth the notion that socialism is an intermediate step between capitalism and communism. Likewise, the incremental approach to socialism is called Fabianism and is what we witnessed from the political left since Franklin Delano Roosevelt.

The Congressional PROGRESSIVE Political Caucus has a lengthy list of objectives, or "promises" that they are committed to fulfill.  Their promises reveal the Fabian, incremental march toward socialism. Put another way, socialism/communism is Democrats’ “PROGRESSIVE” objective, and is in plain sight under the Obama regime. 

Theoretically, in a socialist "utopia" everyone is on an "even playing field," everyone is treated equally, and there is no competition (you know, everybody graduates) except with the remnant of the bourgeoisie, who, like Muslim jihadists solve their problems by killing their opponents. It is a socio-economic system where theoretically everyone works for the good of all, and all work for the good of the each member. Those who have been there, or have more than a moments experience in life, realize that the more government controls, the less freedom there is, and like socialist Germany, the Soviet Union, China, Cuba, and other socialist/communist countries, becomes totalitarian.

In a socialist state, in order for the proletariat to carry out its will, a hierarchy develops and special privileges are conferred, or more properly put, are usurped by those at any rung on the ladder above the working class. The farther up the hierarchical ladder a proletarian progresses, the more status becomes an expectation and proletarian bureaucrats become less responsive or accountable to the proletariat from which they came.

Those anywhere on the ladder above the bottom rung become elitist with trappings of any elitist class appropriate to their place on the ladder. Take a retro look at the former Soviet Union and present day China, North Korea and Cuba for a view of how it works. In the final analysis, all others become slaves of the state and the vaunted dictatorship of the proletariat becomes a sham, an empty promise at best and more practically, the dictatorship of the elite. Like Castro, Chavez, or Putin and most any other dictator they then seek permanent power. When the dictatorship of the proletariat runs its course, people are left with no spiritual rudder and are reduced to being slaves of an oligarchy.

Most politicians, especially Democrats, but including too many RINOs (that is, Republican In Name Only) believe that it is government's responsibility to heal the sick, feed the hungry, clothe and provide shelter for the poor. Actually, those are both the purview and responsibility of the Church. But the Christian Church has largely abrogated its responsibility to government, a government that, thanks to leftists on the Supreme Court in concert with the ACLU, has removed Christian religious motivation and influence from public life in America so effectively that the Church no longer performs those functions set forth in the 25th chapter of the book of Matthew on a grand scale (for those who might need it, Matthew is a book of the New Testament of the Bible).

A writer in the Fort Lauderdale based Sun Sentinel wrote about the Florida Department of Children and Families a number of years ago, "The Government is a Lousy Parent;" truer words were never written. This, despite the fact that it was liberals that fostered the social chaos that largely accounts for DCF’s existence.

If one likes government intrusion in personal life, likes overreaching government, likes the way people are treated when they apply for "government" benefits, then they would love the "socialist" utopia being advanced by Democrats and RINOs.

There is an opportunity for every patriotic, freethinking and free American to express their opinions and desires to the Federal Government regarding the Obama and Democrats’ direction for the country. It is the “9.12.09 March on Washington.” There are a number of groups spearheading the event, but the one with the best information is at the following website: http://912dc.org/.  If you can do it, now it is time. Otherwise make it your business to participate locally.

Hope to see you there on September 12th, 2009.

Semper Fidelis

P.S. Goodbye Mr. Kennedy; Mary Jo, at last you can rest in peace.

Copyright by Robert L. Pappas 26 August 2009. This essay may be freely reprinted and redistributed but cannot be used in conjunction with any advertisement or other commercial purpose without the expressed permission of the copyright holder.

Honor Kennedy and Bury HR 3200

by Bob Pappas

Those who have been around a while have been aware of Mr. Kennedy’s presence in the Senate for longer than one cares to remember. One might take it from this that I was not a fan, and would be right.  Kennedy was a Catholic and will undoubtedly receive accolades from his local parish members if not his priest. But, having lived a visible life of debauchery, absent repentance, one cannot help but wonder about his future. As one who believes in and practices forgiveness, there is the hope that he repented and was thus reconciled with God. For his sake one hopes so.

Then, there is the inescapable political element of Kennedy’s demise: Obama will take full advantage of Kennedy’s death to elevate himself as the new standard bearer of Camelot. And, at Kennedy’s funeral he will wax eloquent in hopes of breathing new life into his increasingly sagging poll numbers. On Kennedy’s dead body will rest the platform for Obama and his socialist “buds” attempt to ramrod universal, single payer, taxpayer funded, government run health care through the Congress whether or not the majority of Americans want it. But, who gives a damn about what the majority wants? This country has too long been and is presently dominated by a tyrannical liberal minority headed for a cliff unless the silent majority WAKES UP and stops “the train.”

It is wrong to suggest that American’s do not want good quality health care. It is also incorrect to suggest that there are no problems with the status quo, but the approach that socialists like Kennedy took and Obama is taking, is not the American way of self reliance and personal responsibility.  Anyone with any sense knows that there are some who simply cannot care for themselves and for them there should be a safety net. But most can find an affordable way to care for themselves if the government would just get out of the way. The present health care debate is not really about health care, it is about whether or not Americans want the fulfillment of Obama’s promise to “totally change the economic system,” to “totally change the country.”

On Jan 15th 2008, in an essay titled, There Will Be Change I wrote:

“I like Obama, I like his oratorical skills, and I like his willingness to take on the Clintons and the Democrat Party machinery. I like his ability to inspire and motivate, but at the moment he doesn't have a clue what he's motivating other than votes; he is an empty suit, one lacking both basic knowledge and experience.  What that means is that he would have, no kidding, "handlers" who would tell him what to do in any given situation. In short, his advisers would run the show. That prospect scares me and I'm fearless.”

Obama is good at speaking, that is, as long as he has a teleprompter and we will see that again at Kennedy’s funeral. But, otherwise he is the bumbling, halting, empty suit we said he is; the socialist we said he is; and, as we noted, he is relying on his handlers (Czars) to run the country like we said he would, while he continues his campaign to fulfill  the “Dreams from My Father” with his administration “spreading the wealth around,” and in the process destroying the U.S. economy.

Wise up “libs” and lemming; and conservatives, get off the couch and do something (legal)!

Semper Fidelis

Copyright by Robert L. Pappas 26 August 2009. This essay may be freely reprinted and redistributed but cannot be used in conjunction with any advertisement or other commercial purpose without the expressed permission of the copyright

Now is the Time to Take a Stand!

by Bob Pappas

Days after he was sworn in Obama repeatedly warned that without the economic stimulus of 787 billion dollars it would be catastrophic for the economy.  That was after the Bush Administration had already foisted the 700 billion dollar Troubled Asset Relief Program or TARP on to American taxpayers. Then on top of those two the Democrat Congress enacted an additional 400 billion dollar omnibus spending bill. So, in less than six months, two administrations, one Compassionate (stealth socialist) Conservative and the other, "spread the wealth around" (socialist in all but the name) placed over 1.8 trillion dollars of additional tax burden on American taxpayers, with the Obama government planning to spend more money than all previous administrations in the entirety of the county's history, combined!

Part of the present problem is that instead of helping the economy, both actions only helped the rich to hold onto their "troubled assets" and has done nothing for Middle America, much less the poor. In fact, fear mongering about the economy over the past two years by Obama and other democrats during the campaign, is at the heart of loss of consumer confidence and has been so successful with the help of the media that when combined with the likes of Barney Frank, Chris Dodd forcing banks to make toxic (that were predictably non-performing) loans to unqualified buyers, combined with oil speculators driving the cost of energy through the roof succeeded in bringing the economy crashing down.

Having fostered, if not created this recession the political left is now full force doubling down with excessive spending, and imposition of government programs that will destroy the economy if allowed to go forward. And, according to Obama that is precisely his plan, why else would he recently say that, "the economy is on track" as the economy tanks? Once national economic collapse is achieved the political left will wave its ugly tentacles, stand on its hind feet and try to declare the end of free market capitalism as a matter of law. Should that succeed, the bright shinning light of the world will plunge to third world darkness, tin-horned dictator actors presuming to be gods will either carve up their own little fiefdoms, or using a "re-educated" military impose the same totalitarian evil empire upon Americans that were the hallmark of tyranny for seven decades under Leninist/Stalinist communism in the USSR. Think it can't happen? Think again. I never thought the U.S. would come this far, this fast. If the left has its way, the United States will join the line of great nations that rose and fell, and it will happen right before our eyes.

The American political left has steadfastly argued that their brand of socialism/communism would be different because of their superior vision, moral authority and culture.  Yet all the while they have systematically destroyed the Judeo-Christian culture that actually made America the greatest country the world has ever known; and, in the name of being law abiding citizens we have let them. The left has been replacing the Judeo-Christian way using the courts and their propaganda arm, the so called, mainstream media with a hedonist, godless, secular society all in the name of "Progressive" politics. These are not true liberals, they are vicious, hateful, evil people whose objective it is to destroy America, and they have the temerity to call themselves "patriots." Barbra Streisand! Or, as General "Stromin" Norman Schwarzkopf liked to say, "bovine scatology!"

We have in the democrat controlled government a façade of righteousness and heart of evil. Obama's Chicago style governance is repugnant to those who understand liberty, free markets and a free society.  Anyone who knows anything knows that conservative Americans believe in and practice charity to a far greater extent than any political so called, "liberal" ever imagined or dreamed of doing.  We don't need government forcing us to do anything. Maybe it's about time that the silent majority engages in some civil disobedience of its own, such as praying in school, and other public places. What are they going to do lock up over 250 million American conservative taxpayers? I don't think so at least not for now.

However, believe me, the loons on the left would evaluate if not act on the notion of killing those who resist them.  After all, that would have the salutary effect of reducing the number of people and their damaging effect on the environment. Right? Additionally, it would reduce the size and cost of universal health care.  Killing the opposition is the hallmark of socialists and communists, and just because this is America doesn't change that.  Anyone who knows non-revisionist history knows what happened in Russia, China, Cuba, Germany, Cambodia, Viet Nam, Iraq and every other country dominated by socialist thinking and governance.

The time has come to take a stand, to push back against decades of tyranny by the ideological minority on the left (they comprise 29% of the population), and be ready for a long and difficult fight.

Join the March on Washington scheduled for September 12. It is time to actively express outrage at the behavior of democrat Washington elitists and let them know that Americans are going to take this country back from their "Manchurian" objectives and consign them to history.  And if perchance RINOs think they are untouchable, think again; this is not a game. What America needs is: smaller, less intrusive Constitutional government, lower taxes, a balanced budget, borders closed to illegal entrants, and strong, vital Armed Forces.

Be visible, patient, persistent, and be steadfast. Plan to drive in and out of Washington either the same day or over two days; stay with friends, or whatever accommodations you can arrange, take plenty of water, wear comfortable clothing and shoes, an umbrella as a shield from the sun, and be prepared to walk. Those who are not able to participate financially or physically join local events; but engage in all legal activity that expresses outrage at the direction that the political left is trying to take the country. Encourage your friends to join the March or participate in local events. It's time to turn this around, put a stake through the "vampire's" heart and never let it happen again.

Finally, this could actually be a blessing in disguise, because now the majority can see the danger clearly for what they are.

Semper Fidelis
 

Copyright © 092109, by Robert L. Pappas. With proper attribution, this essay may be quoted and redistributed. It may not be used in any way, in conjunction with any advertisement without the author's expressed written permission.

Socialism by Any Other Name

by Bob Pappas

For those who still want Obama to succeed, they must be oblivious to what made America the greatest economy in the history of the world, and that the debate is not about health care, it is about control and changing of the US free market system to a socialist/communist government economic system. What is “spreading the wealth around,” otherwise? The mindless attacks by those on the left (who incidentally have benefited more under the free market system than any other people in the history of the world), on conservative writers, commentators and TV hosts illustrates the weakness of their arguments in the face of widespread, increasing public opposition.  Their arguments about Medicare and Medicaid in support of government run programs are so pathetic that they are laughable. In fact take a minute and laugh at them.

Everyone knows that Democrats and most other politicians know better what is good for America than do the people who elected them. They are the smartest, most eloquent, most knowledgeable, most likeable, the smoothest, and most trustworthy; and therefore they are the “elect.” All except Barney Frank whose arrogant attitude means the American mainstream would do well to lick his loafers.

As one who has had significant experience with perpetrators of fraud while working in government, on the internet, and in business, it is noteworthy that people with attributes noted above are the most frequent perpetrators. They are the ones who would take grandma’s last pennies and run to the bank; they promise the sun, moon and stars and make it believable; then when things go wrong, they are skillful enough not only deflect blame, but to spread it around to others, even to the victim.  They never see anything that they did or might do would be wrong and always paint themselves as the victim.

In a recent attempt at fraud, a telephone marketer who was selling business insurance contacted my business. I informed her that the business was well covered and appreciated her interest, but “no, thanks.” She asked me to confirm that the nature of the business was flooring, that is, carpet, tile, wood, etc. Then immediately exclaimed “serendipity” because she needed carpet, and requested I visit, measure and provide an estimate to carpet hers and her husband’s home. Later that day she “dripped with honey” as I proceeded to measure and diagram the floor plan. After selecting a style and color, and as I prepared the estimate, she described her telephone marketing work and experience. Then she suggested that she would like to do telephone marketing for my flooring business. It seemed to have possibilities so I engaged her further. Then after providing the carpet estimate, I thanked her and left with the expectation of hearing more from her later.

The following day she faxed a couple of contacts and shortly afterward called on the telephone. Keep in mind that I met this person only once, one day earlier. The essence of the discussion was that she wanted me to advance her credit toward the purchase of the selected carpet in exchange for time she spent contacting potential customers.  Further, she wanted me to go ahead with the installation and would pay it off by means of referrals.  I explained that I would be happy to work with her but would pay a commission only after a sale had been consummated, not before. I also explained that I did not offer store credit. Then she began to spin along the line that she deserved better treatment and that I should extend credit during these difficult times. I restated that the store did not offer credit, but if she chose I would be happy to accept her credit card as the means of payment.

By the end of the conversation she was whining that I should trust her, that she had been in the marketing business for twenty five years and that I needed to engage in due diligence to confirm her credibility.  Checking her out would not change the no store credit policy for her, or anyone else, and would also not change the policy regarding first earning a commission before payment was proffered.

During the two day, on again, off again dialogue, this person endeavored to obtain a product without payment, with no money down and after offering two referrals that came out of the telephone directory as a gesture of work ethic. When I didn’t bite, she proceeded to attempt to intimidate me by asserting that I was unethical for not believing her and unfeeling for not “working with her.”  What do you think, was she a liberal or a conservative?

This episode had the ring of a number of issues: entitlement, demand for credit, inability to pay, personal feelings and fraud in the solicitation; have a familiar ring?  It is a good example of the something for nothing, progressive, socialist redistribution of wealth scheme.

If your Representative or Senators do not listen and enact “single payer” (code word is for “socialist”) health care; and cap and trade (code for tripling the cost of gasoline and other forms of energy) legislation being advanced by Obama and socialist democrats in the Congress, dump them and don’t look back.

Semper Fidelis

Copyright © 081909, by Robert L. Pappas. With proper attribution, this essay may be quoted and redistributed. It may not be used in any way, in conjunction with any advertisement without the author’s expressed written permission.

Keep the Pressure On!

by Bob Pappas,

When Jimmy “Caata” moved into the White House in January 1976 it was like the Beverly Hillbillies coming to Washington. From my position at the Pentagon 4E 789 where I served as Special Assistant to Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Manpower and Reserve Affairs, until I left in September 1977, then from more distant observation from Japan then Camp Pendleton, California, the four years of the Carter Administration played out as a combination of comedy and tragedy.

It is not necessary to draw the parallel here, because the similarities of then and now should be obvious. The distinction is that the current occupant is of dubious eligibility to serve, despite “official” statements to the contrary, has zero management experience, and is an ideological socialist if not communist.  Despite lopsided support and funding, and all the negative press heaped on John McCain and Sarah Palin, the reality was an election that was relatively close.

Obama promised that he would bring “change” to America leading chants of “yes, we can.” He promised to totally change the economic system, (for lemmings, that’s from free markets to socialism/communism); to spread the wealth around; to withdraw American forces from Iraq immediately upon becoming President; to immediately close Guantanamo Bay; to focus on and win in Afghanistan; to sit down without preconditions with America’s enemies; to “restore” America’s place of respect in a malcontent world; to increase the price of energy; to enact universal health care; to rein in the compensation of top level CEOs; to put the brakes on credit card lenders; to not raise taxes one penny on the middle class and etc., to note a partial list.

What Obama had in mind when he promised “total change” was precisely what America is witnessing unfold, the destruction of the greatest economy in the world to be replaced by pervasive government, in short socialism the intermediate step to communism; and he’s using Rham Emmanuel’s “don’t let a good crisis go to waste” as his entrée.

I am no fan of those who manipulate stock prices for their personal benefit to the detriment of average American investors; no fan of Chris Dodd and Barney Frank; no fan of inept regulators, tax cheaters, and lying, cheating bankers; I am no fan of oil and housing speculators and if it were up to me would overhaul banking and financial markets. Aside from that I would cut taxes, reduce the size of government, get it out of the way and let Americans do what they do best, and that is to be innovative and entrepreneurial.

I am also no fan of excessive government programs and self-serving, careerist politicians the latter of which represent the large majority of Washington’s political class without regard to party.  Left to me, I would invoke the essence of the Declaration of Independence

(“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.--That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, --That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it,…”) 

against the present tyranny and reduce to rubble their cozy relationships with special interests represented by lobbyists. Undoubtedly, there are some who deserve the continued support of the silent majority, but they are few and far between.  We should follow Jesus’ lead, but instead of chasing the money changers out of the Temple, we should drive government thieves out of Washington.

Is it any wonder that American’s are angry about the manner which this Administration and Democrat Congress are “rhaming” legislation through without reading, without debate, without the consent of the American people? This is a Republic not a Democracy but one does not expect one’s representative to go to Washington, and equipped with the blinding enlightenment gained from the wallets of lobbyists, abrogate their representative function.

Bill Clinton may think that Obama’s popularity would rebound with passage of universal health care, but as one American told her representative at a recent town hall meeting, “the sleeping giant has awakened,” so, for “Slick Willie” “it ‘ain’t’ goin’ back to sleep.”

Jimmy “Caata,” served one term and so will Obama, then after taking their country back, Americans will undo the damage. In the process Obama and his socialist vision for America will disappear into the dust bin of history forever. For now, Obama urges a fight using his union and ACORN thugs, with his admonition to “push back twice as hard.” Okay. This is not Russia 1917, or Germany 1933, and he will get more fight than he bargained for.

KEEP THE PRESSURE ON AND DON’T QUIT!

Semper Fidelis

Copyright © August 16th, 2009 by Robert L. Pappas. With proper attribution, this essay may be quoted and redistributed. It may not be used in any way, in conjunction with any advertisement without the author’s expressed written permission.