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Subject: change the wind
Hi, Buzz!!
Although I am a Democrat myself, I can't argue
with everyone's complaints about the spinelessness
of Democrats in Washington. But it shouldn't surprise
us that they are rolling over for the Republicans.
They are politicians, after all, and politicians
are after power.
I'm reading a book by Jim Wallis of Sojourners
("God's Politics," publisher HarperSanFrancisco,
which is a division of HarperCollins; available
from Amazon.com). He says we will always be disappointed
if we expect too much from politicians, because
they walk around with their fingers in the air
to see which way the wind is blowing. The solution,
he says is to change the wind.
Martin Luther King was a person who changed the
wind. After the Civil Rights Act, he went to Pres.
Johnson to ask for a voting rights act. Johnson
said there was no way he could pass such a law;
he'd spent all his capital, etc., etc.; the wind
wasn't right. King and the SCLC staged the march
from Selma to Montgomery, and the wind changed.
We all got a voting rights act.
I think Wallis is right to say that we don't need
different politicians. We need a prophet. Someone
like Dr. King, who can change the wind. I don't
know who that person is, but I intend to pray
for such a one to appear. And then I'm going to
keep writing to our people in Washington, keep
myself informed about what's going on, and protest
what isn't right (we'll all be busy).
And, of course, I will keep reading BuzzFlash.
Hang in there, everyone.
Jane Hawes
Emporia, KS
Subject: Gonzales is a problem for America and
we need our Senators to act on our behalf
Dear BuzzFlash,
Hooray for Senator Kennedy, a Senator with the
courage to announce that he plans to vote against
confirmation of Alberto Gonzales for Attorney
General!
Senator Biden told Mr. Gonzales that he expects
that Mr. Gonzales will be confirmed. Senators
who are Democrats have said that they know of
no reason that Mr. Gonzales would be automatically
disqualified as Attorney General. Many have said
that the President ought to have the right to
pick his own advisors.
Whoa! The Attorney General is not legal counsel
for the President. I heard Senator Biden say to
Mr. Gonzales that the Attorney General acts on
behalf of the People of the United States. If
the Senate confirms Mr. Gonzales, even though
they know very well his position on torture, then
they are saying that this is okay with the American
people. Moral turpitude is not okay with anyone.
Advising the President to abdicate the Geneva
Convention and approve torture is moral turpitude.
If the Attorney General is an Advisor to the President,
then our Senate cannot say that Alberto Gonzales
is fit to advise the President. One of the problems
is that President Bush has already shown that
he has taken the advice of Gonzales as Governor
of Texas and as President of the USA, advice that
demonstrated bad judgment by Gonzales to offer
it and not tell the President it would be wrong
and bad judgment by President Bush in accepting
it and acting on it. And people have been damaged
and lives have been lost by the exercise of this
advice given and exercised under poor judgment.
Let me use a simple analogy to help the Senators
understand this. In a classroom, when two kids
with bad judgment get together to wreak havoc
on the educational process that is supposed to
be taking place or on the health and safety of
the people in the classroom, a teacher is advised
to separate the kids and, if that doesn’t work,
remove both the kids from the classroom. Well,
I don’t think that we will impeach the President,
so the Senate needs to act to separate Alberto
Gonzales and President Bush. Gonzales has been
asked to repudiate and change his views on torture
and the Geneva Convention. Gonzales cannot change
the fact that he is guilty of moral turpitude.
Gonzales cannot instantly gain an inherent ability
to have good judgment just because he verbally
and publicly repudiates his prior advice to the
President on torture of humans. Because of this,
the Senate’s approval of Gonzales would send a
message to the world that what happened at Abu
Ghraib was okay with the American people and that
the American people expect this behavior to continue.
That would be wrong. And that would be dangerous
for our own troops. And that would not be taking
the moral high ground that President Bush claims
that the American people said they wanted with
his election and with the election of enough Senators
for the Republicans to control the Senate. While
Bush is a lame duck President, the Senators are
not lame ducks. The President can fly in the face
of morality; Gonzales can fly in the face of morality.
But the Senators cannot fly in the face of morality.
That's what the Senators would be doing when they
condone moral turpitude and torture. Otherwise,
the USA will fly in the face of the world, including
our allies and our troops.
In my opinion, these reasons ought to automatically
disqualify Gonzales as Attorney General or any
other position that allows him to act as an Advisor
to President George W. Bush. And it is the constitutional
right and responsibility of the Senate to advise
the President that Gonzales was a poor choice
by him and to not consent to the appointment of
this poor choice. Who knows who advised the President
to appoint Gonzales?
Senator Kennedy has the (People’s) Constitution
of the United States of America behind him in
his decision to vote against the approval of Gonzales,
and Senator Kennedy has the support of most of
the moral thinking people of this country behind
him--Democrats, Republicans, and Independents
alike on this issue. No, the President does not
have the right to appoint his cabinet and have
the Senate rubber stamp his appointments no matter
what. Senator Kennedy knows all this. He is a
man of great courage to honor the Constitution
and its Preamble and to do the right thing.
Thanks, BuzzFlash, for providing this mailbag
for the people who are not hired by the Administration
to speak.
Margaret Waid
Subject: Great job... and a surprising note
Hey guys,
Thanks for keeping the channels of information
open. In a time like now, merely reporting the
facts about political trends can be a daunting
undertaking.
A little interesting note. Try typing in a search
for a rebuttal of the rise fascism in America.
You won't find an educated one.
The standard response is to just ignore the facts.
Those that do reply tend to use the Rove tactic
of going on the offense, trying to associate Fascism
with Marxism, and thus Liberalism. The general
idea is, that since all REAL Americans are against
Communism, we can never be Fascists.
My head's starting to look like Linda Blair's
from all the spin. I won't be surprised if we
soon see a White House dispatch to all the right
wing media on how to easily dismiss the Fascism
charge. It'll probably invoke 9/11 in the same
way the Nazis used to use the fire in the Reichstadt.
(Ever notice that they don't teach much about
that event in history class anymore?)
Stuart
Subject: Social Security "reform"
Encouraging news from Josh Marshall and Mark Schmitt
below. Dems may be able to stop SS "reform"
after all.
Good news on the "Byrd Rule." It looks
like there's no way Frist and Co. can get around
the need for 60 votes in the Senate. Mark Schmitt
has the details. Seemingly arcane; but if you're
interested in how all this is going to turn out,
a really big deal.
The
Byrd Rule and Social Security (markschmitt.typepad.com)
VJ
Subject: Editorial
on Gonzales
A great piece...
But, there is one thing. At the end, you've written:
"The Statue of Liberty must be weeping in
shame and horror. We are."
I'm not. I'm furious!
Sam
Subject: Reason
"It is useless to attempt to reason a man
out of a thing he was never reasoned into."
-- Jonathan Swift
Bee
Subject: Secret Textbook Stickers Revealed
BuzzFlash Readers,
Here are some stickers recently uncovered on
school textbooks after an extensive investigation
of high schools in the US:
The "atomic theory" of matter is only
a "theory." Some people believe that
all matter is composed of four elements: earth,
fire, air, and water. Students should keep an
open mind.
There are many gaps in the science of modern
medicine. Some people think that leeches are the
best way to treat many illnesses. Students should
keep an open mind.
Most modern religions believe in one God. But
many people throughout history have believed in
many Gods. Students should keep an open mind.
Most people thank that Nazi Germany was the epitome
of evil. But is it likely that so many people
in one country could be evil? Students should
keep an open mind.
Modern science claims to have invented everything
from television, to computers, to genetically
altered creatures, to atom bombs. But could these
all be an illusion created by the devil to make
us all into heathens? Students should keep an
open mind.
Most people think a President of the US needs
to have extensive political experience and be
very smart. But didn't the actor Ronald Reagan
become President? Students should keep an open
mind.
Your Underground Reporter
Subject: BF is great.....you guys
keep up the heat, but where are the DEMS on Social Security
reform-not a peep from them as per usual. They are SO
chicken sh....with EVERYTHING. I'm sick of them. We
NEED a NEW party.
Colette Miller
Wellington, FL
Subject: The future conservative America
Buzz,
How much of an economic downturn can an administration
blame on liberal views and how much time does a conservative
administration need (or want) to neutralize a downturn
in a nation's economy?
One would think there is no place for families who do
not own property capable of generating a living income
in the future conservative America. What will they do
and where will they go?
4
economic prophets of doom (Forbes/MSN.com)
Kurt
Dallas, Texas
Subject: ref: the Coronation
Just found this site. Love it! Have encouraged others
to take a look.
Just want to encourage your readers to remember to participate
in the Jan 20th "Not One Damn Dime" &
"Wear Black or Blue" forms of inaugural protest
if they can't make it to DC.
At the very least, these efforts will make it easier
for all of us to identify fellow patriotic dissenters.
That in itself could have a profound energizing effect
as it may reveal just how many of us there are. It could
be an awesomely powerful number.
new BuzzFlash reader
Subject: How DARE You Impugn My Integrity?
Dear Buzz:
Just saw Condi's response to Barbara Boxer after getting
grilled on her credibility (based on FACT) re the Iraq
debacle. Condi got all miffed and played victim. She
whined, in essence, "How DARE you impugn my integrity?
Lying is not in my character."
Message the Repugs will spew as a result of this: "Another
partisan attack. Not to be taken seriously."
I saw a little bit of spunk from the Democrats today.
That's a hopeful sign.
A BuzzFlash Reader
Subject: We're supposed to be the "good"
guy
The remaining "official" reasons for the War
in Iraq seem to be the removal of Saddam Hussein from
power based on his noncompliance with international
law. His most egregious offense (since the Gulf War)
being his lack of accounting for weapons of mass destruction.
The weapons were not found by United Nations weapons
inspectors in the time allotted them by this administration,
nor were they found by the two consecutive United States
weapons inspection teams appointed by this administration.
In fact, the most recent team does not think there have
been weapons of mass destruction produced in Iraq in
a decade. The point of this web log entry is not to
argue the merit of these inspections or discuss whether
or not the former dictator "wanted" weapons
of mass destruction, like the ones We possess (What
leader wouldn't?). The idea that has struck me lately
is that the War in Iraq is a war based on international
law enforcement. Doesn't it follow that enforcers of
international law must also abide by it?
Specialist Charles Graner was sentenced to 10 years
in military prison for his role in the abuses and violations
of international law that took place at Abu Ghraib prison
in Iraq. Defense of these criminal offenses seems to
be three fold. The first defense minimizes the abuses
that were committed in the name of "intelligence"
gathering. The second compares the actions of Our soldiers
with the actions of barbaric kidnappers. Last, but not
least, there is the "following orders" defense
that didn't work in the war crime tribunals at Nuremberg
following World War II and doesn't work now.
Defenses like attorney Guy Womack's "Don't cheerleaders
all over America make pyramids every day?" are
attempts at minimizing the fact that the specialist
and others forced men of faith, albeit misguided but
surely extreme, to sin against their religion by having
them strip naked, masturbate, simulate oral sex on one
another, and stack in pyramids while guards and other
inmates watched and were forced to watch. Analogies
like Mr. Womack's fail for obvious reasons. And I can't
remember any cheerleaders being attacked by German shepherds,
hooked up to electrodes, or beaten to death at any pep
rally I've ever attended.
The brutal beheadings that have taken place in Iraq
are some of the most disturbing acts we've seen in this
war. These acts were absolutely atrocious. They were
criminal acts committed by terrorists. Are we not in
Iraq to put an end to such atrocities? We are supposed
to be the "good" guy. Actions like those at
Abu Ghraib and Guantanamo Bay tarnish Our image as the
world's good guy. As an American, I am insulted by the
"they're beheading people" excuse. We are
to bring enemies to justice through means within the
laws of war, however difficult that may be. We cannot
lower Our standards, morals, and adherence to international
law while simultaneously fighting for them.
Specialist Graner and others have testified that they
were following orders. This does not dismiss the fact
that they committed these crimes against the oath they
are sworn to when enlisted. Offenses were committed
by their hands and their boots. This defense does beg
the question of how far up the chain of command approval
of such methods went (and goes). The investigation coituses.
Attorney General nominee Alberto Gonzales' memo on why
the Geneva Convention does not apply to some of those
detained by the United States of America is just a glimpse
of who may have been involved. The details of specific
procedures that were approved of, and by whom, has yet
to be made public.
With 202 people killed in the first two weeks of January,
one wonders what "intelligence" these tactics
produces. "Insurgent" numbers are rising,
a suicide bomber killing 22 people at a "coalition"
mess hall, and the slaying of the governor of Baghdad
are just a few of the recent stories coming out of Iraq.
Are Our tactics working? Are we seen as "liberators"?
I wonder what the "liberated" think of the
sentence that Specialist Graner received?
Thursday is Inauguration Day. If you are making the
trek to Washington D.C., good luck and thank you. There
will be "Anti-war bleachers" set up at 4th
St. and Pennsylvania Ave. Let 'em know we're here!
David C.
Subject: A reminder for your
Paul Wellstone article
That was why he was such a threat to the Bush administration
-- and to the DLC. There is no proof that his plane
was tampered with, but isn't it a bit alarming that
John Kennedy, Robert Kennedy, Martin Luther King,
and Mel Carnahan died at critical moments in political
history? It is to us.
Don't forget! (I had) On a Joan Kennedy biography on
tv over the weekend, it reminded me that Ted Kennedy
was also in a plane crash that broke his back. There
were people in the plane that died!
Linda G.
[BuzzFlash Note: Wikipedia
references the plane crash.]
Subject: Open letter to George Bush
We are approaching your second term inauguration, January
20th is just around the corner. You see this win as
evidence that this country is behind you in your quest
to spread your brand of capitalist greed around the
world. It, in your eyes, validates everything you have
done to our country and the world. Again you "won"
through questionable circumstances, with more voter
irregularities than a third world country. Well Mr.
"President," I think you need to wake up and
smell the dissent. I know for a fact that there are
millions of Americans that find you distasteful, dishonest,
and downright nefarious. January 20th will mark the
death of Democracy, and usher in a whole new batch of
civil rights being taken away by your administration.
Speaking of which, how's that re-write of the Patriot
Act going?
Since, with your infinite wisdom, you plunged us into
war with Iraq (to rid them of their WMDs) more than
1,300 American soldiers have died, and more than 10,000
have been wounded (many of whom will have a lifetime
of disability). This war has alienated us from the world,
and created more so-called terrorists itching to attack
us. Because of you, there are websites that have Americans
apologizing for you getting "re-elected,"
just so the world knows that we are all not followers
of your agenda. You have recently halted the search
for WMDs in Iraq, seems to me a long time to be searching
for something you knew wasn't there in the first place.
At any rate WMDs were the reason why you were able to
con this country (and the coalition of the willing)
into going to war, attacking a sovereign nation without
any real reason. Now the truth is out, Iraq had no WMD's!
So tell me Mr. "President," what is the real
reason we attacked Iraq? I wonder if it was because
you have morals…
It is safe to say that no other superstition is
so detrimental to growth, so enervating and paralyzing
to the minds and hearts of the people, as the superstition
of Morality. -- Emma Goldman
I have my own theories into the reasons why we are
at war, but this letter is not for that. This letter
is just a simple reminder that you, Mr. "President,"
are not my President. Every day I work towards your
impeachment and then your indictment for war crimes.
A Taxpayer, Clay Bowman
Subject: NOW IS THE TIME TO ROLL BACK TAX CUTS
it is now time to get a public affairs effort to get
the republicans to roll back tax cuts and close loopholes
so we can stop the deficit. i am sure you can get on
every television program, get on the cover of all news
magazines and in every newspaper. we can get the public
on the side of the working man-we need a pr effort like
the republicans use. there is no reason the rich need
that tax cut. walmart did not fare as well at xmas while
neiman marcus, nordstrom, etc. did great. now is the
time-to make the house accountable - their terms are
up in 18 months...let them go on record denying money
to the poor. get names and publicize.
Karin D.
Subject: Hmm....let me see....truth? Or political position
on top of dung heap?
Condoleezza Rice faced intense questioning today at
her secretary of state confirmation hearing. In a sharp
exchange, Democratic Sen. Barbara Boxer suggested Rice's
loyalty to President Bush had "overwhelmed your
respect for the truth." Rice replied, "I have
never, ever, lost respect for the truth in the service
of anything."
B.S. FROM LIARS R US. INC. (RICE BUSH, RUMSFELD, WOLFOWITCH,
ETC!)
Debra
Subject: Saddam Trial
Since Saddam is being tried in his own country for things
like "gassing his own people" as we have heard
so much about, perhaps the trial should also prosecute
people in the Reagan Administration that are responsible
for selling Saddam his gas.
A BuzzFlash Reader
Subject: My Comments on Bush's Inaugural
Dear Buzz,
The recent interview
of Bush with MSNBC correspondent Gregory made me
almost weep for Bush. The reason being, just to realize
how Bush's brain is scrambled. He takes ample time to
answer one simple question. I wonder how on earth is
he going to make an inaugural speech. According to Bush,
he has something new to say. Everything so far as we
have heard makes no sense. He should be sent to Jackson's
Neverland.
Have fun!
Elizabeth
Subject: US troops destroy Babylon's archeology
HI BuzzFlash,
Here is a url linked to a news article regarding the
US Military's destruction of Babylonian Archeological
sites. So much for our government being the caretakers
of Western Civilization's archeological treasures.
Babylonian
treasures damaged by coalition troops (NewScientist.com)
Regards,
Rubi
Hey Buzz,
We understand that the 40 mil bill for the coronation
is being paid for by "corporations." It sure
would be interesting to find out exactly who these selfish
corporations are so that we can make sure and give them
our undying gratitude.
Mike
[BuzzFlash Note: FYI:
http://www.inaugural05.com/donors/; http://www.capitaleye.org/inside...;
http://www.kansascity.com/mld....]
Subject: Fwd: The Bottom Line
BuzzFlash,
I just have to say this . . . I can't get excited about
anything that has to do with these committees, the DLC,
the DNC or lastly Kerry. This letter states that Bush
and Republicans think they were given a mandate. I disagree.
They know they weren't given a mandate, but as always,
the Republicans say what they "will" the people
to think. They repeat and repeat and repeat until it's
accepted and then the people think, gee they had a mandate,
that's why they bombed the hell of Iraq and killed thousands
more Iraqis and that's why they bombed hell out of Iran.
Bush couldn't care less whether he has a mandate or
not. He is using those remarks as an excuse for what
he already plans to do. And, from what we already know,
he will have no resistance from Congress.
Maybe, I don't read enough, but I don't see a whole
lot of stuff coming out of our Democrats in Congress
regarding these mandate remarks. I really don't believe
anything will save this Party unless the base of the
Democratic Party takes over and saves these people from
themselves.
Just an opinion. :)
Thanks BuzzFlash,
Shirley Smith
Subject: David Corn: Why we need to start the New
Democratic Party (my words)!
Either we scare the hell out of the Dems and wake them
up, or we get a new party, either way it is only a win-win
for us, as we are now in a lose/lose anyway, and now
CNN has Joe Biden saying he'll vote for her, despite
her disingenuousness, as she has the confidence of the
Preznit, I am done with these guys, care to join me?:
Bush and the Fog
of Phony War (davidcorn.com)
Rex
Subject: Only republicans should serve in Iraq...
How can we expect to win this war if the ones who believe
in this war are not the ones fighting it? Democrats
should automatically be excluded from fighting in Bush's
War. How can we expect to win when the goofballs who
believe in this war so strongly aren't the ones fighting
in it? They stand on the sidelines and whine about more
tax cuts and then look the other way when it comes down
to brass tacks. Only stands to reason that Republicans
are the anointed ones. In addition, since God is on
their side, they don't have to worry about being shot
or killed. Surely, they will be protected.
I just don't understand why Bush, who has been chosen
by God, or so he says, has to have so much protection.
Won't God be protecting him? He should be able to walk
the parade route because God is watching over him. Why
should we have to pay all this money for Bush's protection.
Isn't he under God's umbrella?
Or is he just full of ----!
Alice B.
Subject: Bush's S.S. Plan
A point which I think needs to be made concerning the
Bush Social Security Plan is that it doesn't square
with the Evangelical Christian view that these are the
END TIMES and what happens 40 or so years from now means
diddly to them. I mean, come on, have these people ever
shown any interest or concern about the future other
than wondering when their SAVIOR is gonna appear in
the clouds (unless it's a clear day) and gather up all
the SAVED and take them to HEAVEN? He sure is spending
a lot of time and taxpayer money trying to make the
ignorant public worried sick about their futures for
a person who supposedly believes in the RAPTURE. I would
bet that this is the only long-term issue Bush will
ever even consider because it's really not a long-term
issue, is it?
A BuzzFlash Reader
Subject: Inaugural musings
Dear BuzzFlash,
I've been noticing that more and more of the media is
actually talking about the potential crisis in Social
Security, it's almost like they got the memo directly
from the white house. The only thing I can say is every
time I hear CNN or ABC talk about the problem with Social
Security is they have convinced me. I believe that the
Social Security department does have weapons of mass
destruction.
Support independent media and not these blowhards passing
for journalists.
Gary
Medford, MA
P.S. If I hear one more story about what Bush might
say at the inaugural or what his two drunken daughters
might wear. What I'd like to tell the media is who cares?
And could they keep to themselves. It makes me long
for the day when Gary Condit killed Lacy for Scott as
a favor for Kobe.
Subject: Has our government lost its mind?
Has our government lost its mind????? I feel like the
unthinkable is happening right before our eyes and there's
nothing we can do to stop it. These comments were in
the Jan 17, 2004 Financial Times of London.
Support for "regime change" in Iran is
growing in Congress, encouraging new exiled opposition
groups supported by Washington's neoconservatives
to spring up in the hope of receiving US funding.
Having adopted legislation in the past aimed at Cuba
and Iraq, Republicans and Democrats in both houses
are starting to champion political reform in Tehran.
The activity comes amid a magazine report that the
US has been carrying out secret reconnaissance missions
inside Iran in preparation for possible military strikes.
Is this true? Are there democrats in Congress
planning to go after Iran and get more of our young people
killed? Any democrat who goes along with this war profiteering
oil and power grabbing scheme needs to officially switch
parties and go join the corrupt Republican Party full
time. Any elected official who backs this plan needs to
get their kids and grand kids enlisted in the military
before they send one more of ours over to the Middle East
to kill or be killed.
Contact Bush and members of Congress and tell them
we will not let this happen!!!!!
Sincerely,
Evelyn Pringle
[BuzzFlash Note: Also, from World Media Watch: http://news.independent.co.uk/world...]
Subject: No job?
Dear BuzzFlash,
So Jenna Bush hasn't found a job yet. Perhaps she should
enlist in the army like so many others who couldn't
find jobs. After all, it's her daddy that started this
war. I'm sure he'd be as proud of her in uniform as
he says he is about all the other people in the military.
R. M. Johnson
[BuzzFlash Note: The military option is obviously what
W's daddy favored in the Vietnam war days. Jenna's other
options include waiting tables, baby sitting, or signing
on with a temp agency, like so many other Bush administration
grads who haven't found a job that uses their education.
(Ref Time Magazine's cover story on the "Twixters.")]
Subject: Social Security Shenanigans?
In the news over the weekend, it was reported that the
Administration plans to enlist the help of the Social
Security Administration to sell its privatization program.
This sounds reminiscent of the way in which the Administration
earlier "enlisted" the assistance of Richard
Foster, actuary to the Medicare program, during the
debate over the Medicare Rx drug program. Remember,
they told him to withhold budget data from Congress
in order to hide the real costs of the program -- they
reportedly threatened his job if he didn't obey.
Foster:
White House Had Role In Withholding Medicare Data: HHS
Actuary Feels Bush Aide Put Hold on Medicare Data (Amy
Goldstein/Washington Post)
A BuzzFlash Reader
Subject: Social Security Reform
Dear BuzzFlash editors,
I just emailed several letters to my congressmen/women
and several senators (Reid, Boxer, Feinstein, Wyden,
Kennedy, and Clinton) about a alternative plan to Bush's
plan on social security reform. I would like your help
in widening the discussion about this topic. I have
little faith that my message will get through unless
there is a media buzz.
I proposed the following alternative privatization for
social security, a Calpers-type system. This is privatization
but has a low overall cost because a single board group
manages the fund for the whole of American workers.
Calpers through its size was able to minimize loss due
to corporate scandal such as Worldcom and Enron. Individuals'
accounts do not have this power. The goal is to keep
costs low yet returns high and a large single fund gives
more leverage to all those invested. This puts the risk
onto the government and not the individual. IF BUSH
wants privatization let him have it, but on terms that
empower the people, not Wall Street.
We need alternatives, which is one thing the current
administration never offers. There are working alternatives
to the Bush plan currently in place in this country
for privatized solutions. You can read about CALPERS
history at
http://www.calpers.ca.gov/index.jsp?bc=/about/home.xml
Please open up the debate on social security reform
but including new ideas such as this. I do not think
we need to tinker with social security at all, but there
absolutely needs to be more alternatives at the discussion
table than just one plan.
We the people need this discussed in our news, editorials,
and blogs. Please help me spread the word.
Theodore Moffitt
BuzzFlash reader
Subject: Gingrich is a red herring
Dear Buzz;
Your site is an invaluable tool for those of us wandering
around the internet in search of non-corporate information.
Thank you, thank you!
May I add my voice to your growing community mailbag
with this idea re: Red Herring Gingrich. We all know
the GOPNAC need a dynasty, and that dynasty is called
"Bush." So, what can be deduced from these
recent events:
1. Jethro's international photo-ops
2. the "possibility" of Newt running in 2008
???
Newt is only "chatter," whereas Jethro is
"action" (such as it is). Dearest Buzzers,
believe what you see, not what you hear. Newt is a distraction,
and would only serve as Dick to Jethro's chimpy.
We have to ignore Newt and go after the sacred cow Jethro.
Thank you;
the donkey
Subject: Thursday...The Beginning of the End.....A
Day of Mourning
Well, fellow readers of BuzzFlash, and other "intelligent
beings through out the universe," Thursday will
be a day of mourning at my home and at my business.
Black clothes and black arm bands will be worn by myself
and children and friends. Because, Thursday will be
the beginning of the end of our Freedom and democracy
as we know it. George W and his cronies, henchmen, and
even wife and children will begin the process of finally
ending America as we know it.
Roe Vs. Wade, Freedom of Speech, Religious Freedom,
and many more Rights that are now just barely protected
will start down a road that was once lined with Freedoms
and Rights for all: but, now is a path strewn with "shrubs,
Bushes, and thorns, that will take these blessed rights
and freedoms down to nothing.
Soon, my dear friends, this country will consist of
the "many who think that God chose GW as the "second
coming," and the rest of us, we will be their slaves.
I never thought in my lifetime that this day would come.
Oh, as a lot of us have done over the years when an
election hasn't gone with "my way of thinking,"
I have said to myself and others that "I would
pack up and leave," never thinking I would really
do it.
But, as I think of Thursday, and the "impending
doom" that will soon follow, I sit here with a
heavy heart, wondering how I, a mother of three, can
rescue my children and friends from the grasp of Evil
that now lurks in this country. What does my 13-year-old
son have to look forward to? War, when he reaches the
age of 18??? Or sooner? What do my daughters have to
look forward to? The government choosing their partners
for them? Partners who the Jerry Falwells of this country
deem fit for them?
Oh, yes my friends, Thursday, will be a day of mourning
in my household. A day that I wish I could awake from,
knowing I had just dreamed the worst dream in my life.
But, alas, I fear it isn't a dream. May you all know,
that here in a little town west of Atlanta, there is
a mother who weeps for her children, her country, and
herself..... Bless you all.
Deborah Minchew Owen
Subject: Ask Condi about this TODAY (as sent to mainstream
media)
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/6727646/
Yesterday she said the real problem is the desertion
and inability of the Iraqis in facing the insurgency,
so ask her if she or any of her bosses would be willing
to fight this daily. Condi you made this mess, you put
yourself on the line. We know none of your bosses went
to Vietnam or anywhere else to fight, they were all
here getting an education and other deferments. What
a completely incapable load of BS and she is still filibustering
to remove the necessity to answer questions and to use
up all of the questioner's time. For a bunch to be so
against filibustering they sure use it to their own
advantage.
Do not confirm this warmongerer as our number one negotiator!.
They attack and negotiate the mess. How dare her even
use the name of Martin Luther King, jr? The only reason
she is where she is, is because MLK fought for everyone's
rights for a chance, even incapable demagogues and Condi
he would have taken you to the woodshed over this one.
Don't you dare try to use his name to justify this "shock
and awe" death and destruction. This bloody mess
belongs to you and your friends. So, as Dr. Phil would
say, OWN IT!!!!!
She will do it again. They are doing the same thing
with Social Security. They are scaring all of us with
an imminent danger that doesn't exist. Let the people
who make over $80,000 continue paying into the plan
first because they aren't creating any jobs.
Folks they will provoke any country they please and
your kids will die for it. Get her out of there if you
love and care about your kids.
Karen Webb
Moore, Ok.
Subject: Letter to the Editor - Bush Elected - But
Problems Not Solved
I am not optimistic about the future of America. I wonder
if we will still be a nation four years from now. When
I look at how far America has fallen in the last four
years I can't help but to wonder if we are at the beginning
of the second dark ages. We are a nation who values
war over peace and debt over fiscal responsibility.
And now old people will have to eat dog food and go
without medicine as we gut social security so that the
rich can get tax cuts. Our children fight and die for
oil companies's profits. And I am ashamed to live in
a country that no longer has any real moral values.
I'm Marc Perkel - And I approved this message!
Marc Perkel
San Francisco, CA
Subject: Faith in the Almighty Dollar . . . or a Gift
from God? . . .
BuzzFlash,
This is the type of story that makes me deranged. The
fact that Bush can buy people and yet, all of the abuse
this administration dishes out to the Black, elderly,
and the poor. I guess it's the same feeling I get from
our Democratic members in our Congress. Let down. Bought
by big money. If I belonged to this church . . . I quit
it and find another. This is so wrong. Help should come
from our government, not because of what church a person
belongs to and who they vote for, but because they need
the help. This is so undemocratic and so Bush.
After Bush's contested 2000 victory, Daniels felt
the pull of a most powerful worldly force: a call from
the White House. He conferred with top administration
officials and had a visit in 2002 from the president
himself. His church later received $1.5 million in federal
funds through Bush's initiative to support faith-based
social services.
Bush
Rewarded by Black Pastors' Faith (LA Times)
Our federal funds go out to people in churches that
support Bush. How does he keep getting away with these
abuses to his office and his duties to all Americans?
How? Why are we not hearing about these, in my mind,
illegal support to churches by our illegal resident
in the White House? Yes, it was in the news and then
gone. And, if these churches want support, then they
need to pay taxes.
And, shame on that preacher for being bought out by
Bush's religion . . . the worship of money. Bush and
his administration try to put emphasis on the fact that
you have to be religious to be a good person . . . and
yet, any religious organizations that support Bush,
then they support war, abuse, the trashing of our Bill
of Rights, and the ruining of everything our government
programs do for the good of all because of the cuts
of the funds by the Bush administration so they can
take taxpayers' money and support only those that vote
for Bush and his regime. All of which is illegal and
Bush should be impeached for everything he has done
while in office, and especially for lying the US into
a war.
A person doesn't vote for Bush . . . they buy favors
from the government . . . Bush sells his votes and not
only that, when he is out selling them and giving speeches,
we taxpayers pay for that too. This has been clear since
the year 2000. Just follow the money. These so-called
social services are what a church does anyway for their
own, at least the church I was brought up in always
did for the poor in the community. They do it for charity
and for new members. People forget that running a church
organization is the same thing as running a business.
Our government should take care of social services for
all. This is the Bush regime getting around our government
again and again and again and yet, Congress is always
either voting for his schemes or they stand silent.
I'm sure there are many churches who would like to have
such easy access to this kind of money.
Just a thought,
Thanks BuzzFlash,
Shirley Smith
PS: Regarding another subject I heard about the fact
that people, when passing Bush in the parade could not
look him in the eye (was that it) . . . it reminded
me of something. I think that we're not supposed to
look attack dogs in the eye or many other predators
that roam within our food chain . . . and we shouldn't
run from them either. Anytime I talk to someone who
refuses to look me in the eye . . . I think that person
is someone that either I can't trust or they have psychological
problems. I don't know who will ever step up to protect
this Country from these enemies of the people and our
Democracy. People and the "liberal" media
would listen if all of our Democratic members of Congress
would form a line of defense against this administration,
because Bush likes to attack one at a time, it is easier
and more effective . . . but to attack a whole membership
of Congress . . . they are safe, just don't get on a
plane together . . . if anyone ever gets Bush on the
run . . . he may be kicking and screaming, but he'll
trip and go down faster than Nixon.
Subject: Waste of Time
Watching television these days has become a complete
waste of time. On C-span this morning two conservatives,
Pat Toomey and a fat cat from the Heritage Foundation,
spouted on and on about how badly the Social Security
System needed to be reformed and how advantageous it
would be for younger workers to invest in private accounts.
Listening to them recite their scripts made me wonder
whether Brian Lamb and C-span were being paid, ala Armstrong
Williams, to be spokesmen for the administration. Obviously,
neither of these two men will ever have to depend on
Social Security for their retirement income.
Next C-span went to the Rice hearings. Why bother having
these hearings when each Democrat (example, Joe Biden)
prefaces his so-called tough questions with "I'm
going to vote for you"?
Why can't the Democrats, if they truly are concerned
about the answers Condi gives and disagree about her
past actions, simply not vote for her confirmation?
Their posturing is a complete waste of time.
Only Barbara Boxer seems to have any courage. Let's
see how she votes. The men certainly don't have any
"cajones."
A Disgusted TV watcher
P.S. By the way, on January 20th, I will either not
turn on the TV or else watch re-runs.
Subject: LOL! CNN Headline
Check out this headline that is on cnn.com right now...
Bush:
Better human intelligence needed (CNN)
No duh. He finally figured it out.
A BuzzFlash Reader
Subject: My Fax to Pres. Bush
To President Bush, January 19, 2005
On the eve of you being sworn in again to the highest
elected office in this land and as the leader of the
free world, I cannot for the life of me understand your
answer when asked the other day, "Why haven't we
caught Osama Bin Laden yet?" Your answer was, "He
is hiding." No kidding, Mr. President!
But, here is what really gets me is that anyone would
vote for you while this mass murderer is still out there
and most likely planning another attack on us. So much
for "Dead or alive," which turned into, "He
is not our priority." Well three thousand people
were murdered on American soil under your watch and
those that they left behind deserve justice.
I have more respect for the law enforcement personnel
around this country who go after similar monsters, but
are able to capture them, thereby bringing justice,
closure, and peace to those family members left behind.
They do so with fewer resources at their hands, whereas
you have a network of intelligence agencies under your
command. Will Osama become the ultimate cold case file?
America will never be safe when we have such incompetent
people leading this country. America will never be safe
when corporate heads mistreat workers around the world
and where people like you turn a blind eye to their
suffering. After all, most of these corporate heads
get the big tax breaks from you. Could it be, Mr. President,
that this is why America is hated by some instead of
the freedoms we have? Could it be that monsters such
as Osama bin Laden exploit those that are suffering
around the world and recruit them for his cause? In
my opinion those already exploited workers making products
that Americans purchase are the ones most vulnerable
where they may be recruited and where they will listen
to the Osamas of the world. What do they have to lose
anyway? I am sure that these workers do not relish years
of working for low paying wages and in deplorable working
conditions.
Also in my opinion incompetent leaders such as you
never think preventatively, you only react when those
that are angry with us attack us. By that time, it is
already too late. What I mean by preventatively is not
attacking countries preemptively, but by changing US
policies around the world that respect others instead
of treating them as slaves.
In conclusion, Mr. President, when will you capture
Osama bin Laden? Our country and the world are still
waiting. Most likely you will divert our attention elsewhere
as you did when you illegally invaded a sovereign nation
known as Iraq and captured the wrong man.
God save America from another four years of you leading
her.
Mary MacElveen
Sound Beach, NY
Subject: Re: Boxer = BALLS.........
How come the above is the only one who got them in the
DEM. Senate???? I just saw chicken sh butt kissing Biden
and he was licking Conda LEASE's butt, sooooo much,
I thought I was watching the Clarence Thomas hearings
all over again. You go Barbara Boxer-you are the GREATEST.
Huh...maybe she'll run for PRES one day....and spare
us the chicken sh men who won't stand up for the DEM
party. We NEED new blood. Barber B for Pres with Howard
D as her vice pres...a DREAM ticket.
Colette Miller
Wellington Fl
Subject: Change the Republican Party symbol from an
elephant to a pig
After spending $40 million on an orgy of bad taste for
the second Bush inauguration, while sticking Washington
with the $17 million tab for security, there can no
longer be any doubt that the Republican Party needs
to change their symbol from an elephant to a pig.
Bruce Martin
Mill Valley, CA
Subject: Boxer and Condee
I read the exchange that took place yesterday between
Sen. Boxer and Ms. Rice, and was relieved to note that
we have at least one senator with "balls"
in the midst of many without, and democrats at that.
This undue deference to our officials, who are our public
servants and who should be accountable to us, is disconcerting
to say the least. Boxer's questioning was fair and to
the point, while Ms. Rice revealed that, despite her
intelligence, she is a liar. When confronted with her
own contradictions, her only defence was to repeat them.
And this is the person the Senate will confirm as Secretary
of State? Something is really rotten in...the USA!
Fred Cerreta
Subject: The Wa Ho Po
BuzzFlash, FYI, this was on BartCop.
In the Saturday, January 15, 2005 Washington Post,
buried in the last line, on page A9 of the story "Inauguration
Donations Swell by $7.7 million," it states that the
Washington Post Co. donated $100,000 to the Chimp's
inauguration.
I was shocked at the sheer conflict of interest
of a news outlet that serves an area that voted
overwhelmingly against the Idiot in Chief.
I wrote a letter to the editor, doubt it will be
published, and cancelled my subscription, which
hurts because I'm unemployed and really need the
Sunday Jobs section.
Please help getting the word out, like I said,
it was buried in the story, so I'm not sure how many
people read it and haven't seen it posted on any of
the left leaning websites.
Russ
DC co-organizer for the BartCop.com protests
Thanks BuzzFlash,
Shirley Smith
Subject: Standoff Near White House...
Yahoo News had a story 1-19-05, 12A.M., "Standoff
Near White House Underscores Tight Security."
This story, as with several similar stories in the
past 3 years or so, ALL seem to end with the same
idea or comment {almost the exact words are said each
time}. As with this story, the last few lines, the
"reporter" is interviewing a "witness"
to the event, and quotes her, and she says, "They
can do whatever they need to do to secure our safety.
It is an inconvenience but I would gladly sacrifice
that." I would be willing to bet a week's income,
that Karl Rove had something to do with that. This
statement or almost the exact words have been used
after every similar story!
A BuzzFlash Reader
Subject: Democrats in Congress = Republican lite
Dear BuzzFlash:
Still think there's a huge difference between the
Democrats and the Republicans?
Only TWO Democratic Senators (safe ones at that) had
the decency to say no to Rice.
Only 2.
Carolyn Gray
Subject: mystified
Hello fellow flashers.
To start, I never write this type of correspondence,
but must thank you for the constant daily updates
i keep receiving. If I had the cash I would definitely
send you a financial contribution, but being broke
and destitute sort of puts a damper on anything but
rent and food.
Anyhow, I am a Canadian, and a completely mystified
one. The apparent cause of this affliction is my constant
source of wonder at how your country allowed the Bush
gang to fleece your nation once again. Of the nearly
300 million citizens in your country, surely there
must be enough intelligent people to not have allowed
this to happen, not once, but twice. Ok, Ok. I know
the Diebold machines may be only one reason of many.
But the list of inanities and propaganda that comes
out of Washington is fucking amazing.
These people don't even try to cover their tracks.
Case in point: Rice's confirmation hearing. This
woman wouldn't know the truth if it pissed on her
boot. I think she really needs some nooky. And I think
Ann Coulter could use a little also. Yet what man
would take the risk. Talk about a preying mantis.
Yikes! I have been in fear of your nation for years,
and it is a bummer, but I can honestly say that I
will never cross your border again. Of course the
only reason I had ever done so was to see the Dead
playing back in the 70's and 80's. I believe you folks
are going to have to take up arms and get rid of Bush
and his cronies. Cause it sure looks like Brother
Jeb in 08. I truly feel for some of you folks.
But make no mistake, that definitely doesn't include
all of you.
And in 2 days you'll be crowning the emperor once
again. What you need is about 200 folks like Barbara
Boxer in your senate and congress. She made Condi
squirm. All hail Ms. Boxer. But for all that, keep
up the good work in 05. You have enlightened me on
many occasions. And if all else fails, move to Canada.
We have better medicare, better beer, better looking
women, and of course our reefer is the envy of the
smoking world. Thanks again.
Tony Gouchie, a concerned Canadian
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