Senator Larry Craig says he's not gay, and then resigns.

Senator Larry Craig had to go to an airport bathroom and release some hostages (take a dump, I mean). While sitting there doing his business in the next stall was an undercover police officer wondering if the Senator was one of those folks looking for anonymous gay sex that he had been stationed in that bathroom to catch in the act of soliciting such sex (say that five times fast!). Senator Craig tapped his foot the correct number of times (perhaps he knew the code for sex in that bathroom and is really gay, or perhaps he had a great waltz playing endlessly in his head which of course has a three beat rhythm, or perhaps he thought tapping his foot three times would return him to Idaho "There's no place like home, there's no place like home. . .). Perhaps, as one political cartoon suggested, he thought three taps meant "pass the sports page." Regardless, Senator Larry Craig was arrested for his actions.

Strangely, after his arrest, the Senator pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor charge hoping it would make everything go away (or so he claims).

Then, Senator Craig held a press conference claiming he is not gay, and he did nothing wrong.

Someone is lying. The liar is one of two people. The Senator, or the cop.

Ahhh, but that's not the point, is it? First of all, my wondering mind is wondering if that wonderfully pro-gay media would have reacted in the same way had the alleged act of homosexuality been by a Democrat.

The Left says, "Craig claims to be a supporter of Family Values and this is just an example of hypocrisy in the Republican Party! I thought the Republicans were a party of Family Values?"

And now, under increasing pressure from his GOP colleagues, Craig has resigned.

STOP.

Let's say that again: Under increasing pressure from his GOP colleagues, Craig has resigned.

This is where the real truth lies. Craig allegedly sought out gay sex in a bathroom (had he been a Democrat he would have been championed for his bravery in this gay-hating world of Family Values spewing, war-mongering Republicans), and even though nothing has been proven beyond a shadow of a doubt, the Republican party essentially ran Craig out of town.

Now, had the Republicans coddled Craig, and defended his alleged actions (notice the word alleged), then they (The Republicans) would have been hypocrites. Fact is, the Republican Party will not put up with anyone playing two sides of the political game, and will pressure resignation even if the person is totally innocent (as in Tom DeLay's case). Yet, the media and The Left (I'm judging The Left by the more than three dozen "the Republicans are hypocrites" e-mails I've gotten from people who don't like me regarding this story) still say the GOP is one of hypocrites because of an "individual's" alleged activities.

But you see, in this world of liberal absolutes, anybody who espouses traditional Judeo-Christian values is a hypocrite, because nobody can be righteous like that all the time (according to The Left).

I agree. Says right there in the Bible that we all fall short of the glory of God. But at least I admit my guilt when I make a mistake. The Left won't, because how can you admit you were immoral if you don't believe that anything is immoral in the first place?

Besides, it's not like the Democrats have had any scandals, right? No, of course not.

Cary Cartter is back on the Campaign Trail!

Cary Cartter sent this out last Monday, but alas, my whole system went down thanks to the wonderful people in the offices of my internet provider, so I have only had the chance to read it today. For those of you that don't know Cary, he has decided to run for President using the blogosphere as his campaign trail - and honestly, I wish he was one of the big cookies because his platform beats the heck out of the current offerings! Oh, and thanks for the compliment, Cary, I appreciate it. And you're welcome. I enjoy the conversations.

Make A Difference - Vote For Common Sense - Write In Cary Cartter for President in 2008

Monday Campaign Notes

It has been a while since I last issued a "Monday Campaign Note" - something that was mentioned to me yesterday while talking with Douglas Gibbs. On the bright side, I was able to spend almost an hour in conversation with someone who had the same Christian-based world-view that I do, which was most enjoyable. Thanks, Doug.

Oh, yeah - campaign stuff.

The reason for Doug's call is that he needed to bump me from my scheduled September 1, 2007 appearance on his Blog Talk Radio Show for a very interesting guest. I told him that anytime he has a guest that needs a slot that I was scheduled for, please feel free - I'm very flexible, and it is his show. But especially, if the guest is one that can maybe expose some more of the mindset that we are fighting against in this World War on Terror.

So, I've been rescheduled. Won't you give a listen and call in? Details are in the rescheduled link.

Immigration - what a tempest!

I received an e-mail from NumbersUSA regarding the current crop of Career Politicians and their cough"stance"cough on the flow of legal immigrant workers to be hired by US companies, in order to depress the level of wages these companies need to pay. After the illegal invader issue, this is going to be a hot button topic. At least, it should be. By increasing the numbers of legal immigrants that are being brought in to specifically fill jobs that otherwise would go to a citizen at a higher (read: more fair) pay rate, the overall level of wages will be depressed, causing our economy to continue to spiral downward toward the class split that the economists and liberal think is best for this nation.

I am not against legal immigration. I'm all for it. But not to flood the work market with lower-earning workers to bring the overall wage level down. That's just counter-productive. There is a fine line between paying a competitive wage and not finding enough workers for your business. I'm no expert, but I believe that if a business can pay a wage that will draw workers to it, even in competition with other, more highly skilled positions, then that business will be successful. A company that is more interested in paying it's owner or CEO more than Midas ever saw deserves to have labor problems, and even face the market truth of "Be Competitive or Be Forgotten." Actually, that's something I just made up. But it does have a ring of truth, doesn't it?

Now, if you've read this far, perhaps you are wondering just where I'm coming from. A little further down are links that will take you to my platform.

But, this campaign needs help. Lots of help. Each state where I will be a write-in candidate needs me to file with them the names of electors from that state. The electors will travel to the electoral college after the November 2008 election, and cast their vote for me as the candidate. Travel is reimbursed, if that makes a difference. Then there are the states that don't accept write-in candidates for the office of President. My name needs to appear on the ballot on those states. I will need, besides electors, people willing to circulate and file petitions for my name to appear on the ballot.

All of these positions would be on a volunteer basis. As mentioned, travel to the electoral college would be reimbursed.

This campaign is running on word of mouth and no expenditures - and no contributions are being solicited. If enough volunteers can get together and cause a grass-roots swelling happen, then Cary Cartter can be elected President of the United States in November 2008.

If you feel you are Out of Voting Choices, then choose to Make a Difference - write in Cary Cartter for President in November 2008. Please help me get the word out.

If you would like to know more about my platform, please visit my blog. If you have any questions you would like to see addressed, or if you would like to help spread the word about my campaign, you can e-mail me here.

Tag: Write in Cary Cartter for President in 2008

Okay, now an additional note from me here at Political Pistachio: Question - how serious is that Islamic Threat? Watch the video in the post below.

Wake-Up Call: The End Of The (Western) World As We Know It 2

If you missed the interview with the Co-Founder of The Loyalist Party on Political Pistachio Radio. . .

IT'S ON ARCHIVE!



Brian Nordval is the co-founder of The Loyalist Party, a party that fits well with Conservatives. The party understands the principles of freedom: Small Government, low taxes, the rule of law (including in regards to illegals), an unrestrained free market, and a strong national defense. Three items I hope to go over with him when Mr. Nordval returns in the future is his position on the protection of private property, activist judges, and traditional family values.

And tune in this coming Saturday! Walid Shoebat will be our guest. He is a former Islamic terrorist born within the culture of terrorism. As a young man he became a member of the Palestinian Liberation Organization, and participated in acts of terror and violence against Israel. He was later imprisoned in the Russian Compound, Jerusalem's central prison for incitement and violence against Israel. He later entered the U.S. as a counselor for the Arab Student Organization at Loop College in Chicago and continued his anti-Israel activities and as a recruiter for Islam. He believed the PLO was too moderate at that time and chose to join the Muslim Brotherhood (forerunner of Hamas), and was training for Jihad in America. In 1993 Walid realized he was on the wrong side, and became an advocate for Israel, and against terrorism.

View this video of Walid on FOX News in 2005 below:

Political Pistachio Radio has The Loyalist Party on the air tonight!!

Brian Nordval from the Loyalist Party joins Political Pistachio Radio tonight, 8pm Eastern Time.

Tune in live, and call in to join the discussion at 646-652-2940.

(sorry I've been absent, my internet provider has been down in my area)

When God calls. . .

A United States Marine was attending some college courses between assignments. He had completed missions in Iraq and Afghanistan . One of the courses had a professor who was a vowed atheist and a member of the ACLU.

One day the professor shocked the class when he came in. He looked to the ceiling and flatly stated, "God, if you are real, then I want you to knock me off this platform. I'll give you exactly 15 minutes." The lecture room fell silent. You could hear a pin drop.

Ten minutes went by and the professor proclaimed, "Here I am God. I'm still waiting." It got down to the last couple of minutes when the Marine got out of his chair, went up to the professor, and cold-cocked him; knocking him off the platform.

The professor was out cold. The Marine went back to his seat and sat there, silently. The other students were shocked and stunned and sat there looking on in silence. The professor eventually came to, noticeably shaken, looked at the Marine and asked, "What the hell is the matter with you? Why did you do that?"

The Marine calmly replied, "God was too busy today protecting America 's soldiers who are protecting your right to say stupid shit and act like an ass. So, He sent me."

courtesy G.M. Roper

Castro Dead?, Impeachment?, and The Border Patrol's real duties?

Rumors are flying around that Fidel Castro might be dead. One blog has been working tirelessly to find out the truth. Imagine, if you will, if this is true.

Hollywood elite would be in tears, for one of their heroes would be gone. Hugo Chavez is frothing at the mouth in preparation, because in all of his imitation of Cuba, he may actually wish to annex Cuba to Venezuela (or vice versa). Hey, stranger things have happened. He even changed the time zone of his Socialist Bolivar Republic of Venzuela (or whatever he calls it now).

Well, if Castro is dead, be prepared for more strife than just what is happening in the Middle East.

Now, an acquaintance of mine posted this explanation of what would happen if The Left decided to listen to the Far Left and actually attempt to impeach President Bush (this is not my writing, but "Brendan's" and I don't have a blog to attribute it to, so this will have to suffice:

Well, I want them to EXPLAIN EXACTLY what they think would happen if they moved to impeach and it was unsuccessful.

*waves hand frantically*

OOOH..OOOh....I can do that for you.

A failed impeachment will see a massive swing back to the GOP, as the Democrats are seen as pursuing a useless, baseless, and vindictive agenda.

With no proof, no charges, nothing of substance and nothing more than a hatred of the President, the process will be seen as an abuse of power by the so called Democratic base"Blue dog " Dems will revolt, the GOP will UNITE to slam the process closed before it even leaves the House, the "articles" will fail more than fifty percent of the votes needed to proceed to the Senate. The Democrats will be seen as trying to destabilise the government, and will be perceived as having lied to their constituents when they promised good government and more responsible leadership.

The GOP will pick up seats in both the House and the Senate in the primaries as voters will react in disgust at the Democrats use of a "vengeance agenda" based on B.D.S and very little on facts. The Democrats will then find their agenda DEAD IN THE WATER.

Every bill they try and put through will be used as a kicking post by the GOP. Every "social reform," will be tied up in committee, the subcommittees will find themselves unable to get anything done as more and more Senators and others wont return their calls.

When it hits the floor, IF it hits the floor.....they will find getting any bill through a Herculean task as every obstruction will be put in its way. Amendments, riders, attachments, appropriations, anonymous holds....all bets will be off.

Hillary will find herself at the centre of a massive media storm as her own husbands impeachment and disbarment will be hauled out and used as a club to beat her campaign into a bloody pulp.

Barack will backpedal faster than he ever did in his life, in an attempt to distance himself from this train wreck.

Pelosi will be too busy trying to put Humpty Dumpty back together again as her role of Speaker will now be one of damage control / emergency repair.Her credibility will be shot...this is a nightmare she dreads.

Joe Lieberman will tear the Democrats to pieces....and a lot of "fence sitter" senators will join him.Last but not least, the military vote, the veteran vote and a great deal of the centre and centre left vote in the US will turn on the Democrats...and they will find themselves at the end, languishing in the political long grass......for DECADES.

George Bush will find himself with massive popularity as the average American will NOT sit still for what is ostensibly and publicly seen as a craven attack on the office of the Presidency in a time of war.

In summary: two words:POLITICAL SUICIDE.

Here endeth the lesson.

And finally, check this out: The Border Patrol, or at least this dude, has decided that apprehending illegal aliens or seizing illegal narcotics as they cross the border IS NOT THE JOB OF THE U.S. BORDER PATROL.

What?

God help us, as a friend of mine said in response to this one.

Halls of Valhalla sizzles

My good friend, Loki, hosts The Halls Of Valhalla. I called into his Blog Talk Radio Show tonight after my show was cancelled due to technical difficulties. I called in about half hour into the show, then after the hour mark Vincent from Virginia calls in, and then the show really gets interesting. Give it a listen HERE

A Terrorist discusses Terrorism on Political Pistachio Radio (but not tonight)

I recently posted an upcoming schedule for Political Pistachio Radio, and then something happened - things changed.

I have this saying that in today's world the only thing that seems to remain consistent is the fact that things are always changing.

But sometimes things have a way of changing for the good.

Today's guest changed because we experienced a technical difficulty. The guest, Brad Lord-Leutwyler, will be back on the show on September 22nd - So tune in then at 4pm Pacific/7pm Eastern on Political Pistachio Radio. Listener participation is encouraged. Call in number is: (646) 652-2940. Or you may participate by sending me questions and comments by Yahoo Instant Messenger, ID douglasvgibbs.

August 29th we will still have Brian Nord from the Loyalist Party.

On September 1st, however, we have booked a very special guest. Walid Shoebat has agreed to be a guest on Political Pistachio Radio on September 1, 2007. He is a former Palestinian Terrorist that has since left the Muslim faith and has become a voice against radical Islam and the terroristic Jihad they are currently waging. He has appeared in the documentaries Obsession: Radical Islam's War Against The West and EPICENTER. His book, "Why We Want To Kill You" is currently available for purchase and is written powerfully. It is the most authoritative book written on the causes of terrorism, giving insight into the minds of those supporting the cause of terrorism, as well as explaining how to defeat them.

Joseph Farah, Founder, CEO, and editor of World Net Daily, was scheduled to be my guest on September 5th, but his representatives have contacted me and indicated that due to his schedule they wish to re-schedule him to a later, yet undetermined, date. In his place, moments after Farah's people postponed on me, I was contacted by the guest that is replacing him, Kit Lange. Kit is a coordinator and webmaster for the Gathering of Eagles, as well as a fellow host on Blog Talk Radio with her show, The Front Line.

On September 8th we will welcome Andrea Shea King to the program. She hosts the Andrea Shea King Show on WDBO AM 580 in Florida and at Blog Talk Radio .

Paul Couturier, host of Independently Correct Radio on BTR will join us Wednesday, September 12, 2007 at 7pm Pacific Time/10pm Eastern Time to discuss 9/11, how it has affected America, and about the upcoming Gathering of Eagles event on September 15th in Washington D.C.

Future guests scheduled also include Cary Cartter, Dr. Blogstein, and a return visit from Gary W. Moore and Atlas Shrugs.

Taking Lessons From History

This morning the main headline in my local newspaper, The Press-Enterprise (Inland Southern California), read: Worse seen for unstable Iraq. Then the article's title/caption read: REPORT: U.S. Intelligence officials say the country's leaders "remain unable to govern effectively."

The New York Times posted a similar story with the headline: Report Raises Strong Doubt About Iraqi Government, describing Iraq's government as being paralyzed and unable to take advantage of the security gains achieved by the thousands of extra American troops dispatched to the country this year.

[about now I would expect the sound of an abruptly scratched record/LP - that's one of those round black discs that plays music on record players/turntables for you young'ns]

Did the New York Times in this article admit the surge is working?

Ah, but that's one of the points of this post. Since the military surge led by General Patraeus is obviously succeeding in lessening the violence level in Iraq, the liberal media and their cronies for defeat are in a mad scramble for a new strategy to convince America that Iraq is a disastrous defeat. But how, they asked themselves, can we still portray Iraq as a doom and gloom scenario when the surge is working?

The Liberal mainstream media has decided that since the military successes in Iraq keep piling up faster than they can handle they must begin chopping at the political end of the deal. In other words, do what they can to destroy the integrity of the government led by Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki, as well as hammer on the weaknesses of the fledgling democracy.

Has the Liberal media lost their minds? Or forgotten the lessons of history for that matter?

Unfortunately, the answer to the first question is "Yes" and "They lost their marbles a long time ago." From a historical point of view they seem to forget that the United States of America took a long time to become a democracy, and we are still tweaking the system. The American Revolution on its own took eight years to reach its completion, and even then, our battle for democracy was far from over. The U.S. Constitution wasn't officially adopted until 1789, six long years after the end of the Revolutionary War.

In other words, the wheels of democracy grind slowly, and it takes time to establish such a government. We can't expect Iraq to stabilize overnight. Impatience is not the answer. Abandoning the nation after freeing them from Saddam Hussein's iron fist is not the right thing to do, nor the wise thing to do from any direction you look at it. The stakes are high in that region, and our National Security has a vested interest in the success of a democratic Iraq.

Iran neighbors Iraq to the north, and Iraq is currently (of course the mainstream media won't tell you this) being shelled by Iran along Iraq's northern border. Iran has massed thousands of troops along that border in preparation for a ground assault against Kurdish fighters (who have long acted as allies with the American Forces). This is not only a violation of Iraq's sovereignty which has been guaranteed up to this point by American presence in that country, but it is a message that Iran is willing to come against the 16,000 American Troops in Iraq.

First, nuclear aspirations, and now Iran pulls this stunt? The writing is on the wall, folks. Cut and run would be disastrous.

As the mainstream media is crying for us to pull out, the enemy is positioning itself so that it may destroy the fledgling democracy in Iraq. And if we continue to listen to the Left and if we decide not to protect Iraq's New Democracy, continue to spew propaganda against her via our wonderful liberal (Marxist?) press, and do nothing about the threats being offered by Iraq's neighbors, we will be sending a terrible message. The enemy will see us and our presence in the region as weak, and unwilling to protect the freedom in Iraq we have inspired. Instead, after all that we have accomplished, Iran will launch a massive massacre against Iraq that will eventually spill over into Israel, and then into The West.

History has shown that weakness and the unwillingness to take these radicals serious in the Mid-East is always answered with death. In 1990 it became increasingly clear that Saddam Hussein was planning to invade Kuwait, attack Israel, and draw the world into a new Middle East war. Saddam Hussein said so in his speeches, claiming that it was his goal to destroy half of Israel with chemical weapons.

How did the American media respond to these threats?

Time magazine on June 11, 1990 chalked Saddam up as a loud, dangerous leader that really poses nothing to seriously worry about, saying specifically "Saddam is not likely to do anything that would jeopardize his standing either in Iraq or in the Middle East." On July 2nd of 1990 The Washington Post declared "New Middle East War Seen Unlikely." And just days before Iraq's invasion of Kuwait the London Times headlined that "Experts Believe Iraq Will Stop Short of Invasion." (Page 45 EPICENTER by Joel Rosenberg). And if anyone challenged the notion by saying something like "Doesn't all the evidence add up to an invasion?", in Joel Rosenberg's words the sophisticated, intellectual, enlightened response was, "Of course not, you uneducated moron."

On August 2, 1990, Iraqi forces began moving across the Kuwaiti border. In 1991 Iraq launched 39 SCUD missiles at civilian targets in Israel.

And what was the media's response? Accusations. The press accused the Defense Department of being blindsided by the Iraqi invasion - just as they did regarding 9/11.

Lesson from history?

When tyrants say they plan to do their bidding "by force if necessary," as Hitler proclaimed, or consider a million deaths to be no more than a statistic as Stalin quipped, or indicate that Israel's destruction is near as Ahmadinejad from Iran proclaimed recently, we best take them seriously.

On my radio show last Wednesday I asked my callers on the air if they truly believed that Islam could make good on their threat to dominate the world. The answer was a resounding "Yes."

Go to my Political Pistachio Radio Blog to see what's coming up on future programs.

About a Hero by Gary W. Moore

Those of you that are longtime listeners of my radio show will recognize Gary as the author of the book, Playing With The Enemy. The following is an e-mail he sent me yesterday that touched my heart, and I expect it will touch yours as well.

- - - I didn’t know Andy Lancaster but I now know of him. He is evidenced all over and around the small community of Stockton, Illinois. As Arlene and I approached the tiny community of 2000, nestled in the rolling hills of the northwestern part of our state, we began seeing flags posted along the road. As we passed the high school, the flags had yellow ribbons attached to them, which made me believe for a moment they were anticipating the return of their favorite son from the military. It occurred to me that he must have done something heroic to warrant such a reception. Then we came across the sobering sign at Stockton High School which read, "Memorial Services for Sergeant Andrew W. Lancaster Friday August 17 at 7:00 PM."

Andy Lancaster was returning to his home of Stockton, Illinois, but the glow of his smiling face will not be seen other than in the photographs he left behind. Sergeant Andrew W. Lancaster was killed in Iraq by an improvised exploding device (IED) along with three of his fellow Americans.

There will be many things said of the passing of this young man. Some will say he died in vain for a country of strangers who did not want or appreciate his help. Others will say he gave his life in the name of freedom as our nation reaches out in support of another. Regardless of your belief, it is important to note that this boy died in the uniform of our country and did so in the line of his duty. He gave his life while in the volunteer service of our country. He is not a political football that should be passed in an effort to score points for one belief or another. He was someone’s son and brother. His sacrifice should never be forgotten and always appreciated.

I did not know Andy but I mourn his loss. After spending twenty-four hours in his hometown, the sadness has permeated my soul and I am strangely taking his loss personally. Before driving to Stockton for a family reunion, I had never heard of Andy, but now I will never forget him. Arlene and I pray that his family and friends will someday be able to understand and reconcile the loss of someone they loved with how and why he died.

Andy, you are a hero to us all. I am so very sorry I will not have the chance to meet you. I have met the people of your town and I hope you pass knowing how much they truly love you.

To all who read this, please take a moment to pray for those who wear the uniform of our country. Pray for their safety and security … and also pray for Andy, his family and the people of Stockton, IL who loved him.

Why am I writing this? I don’t know. I feel so compelled to introduce Andy to as many people as I can who may otherwise never know him. I want to share his name with as many people possible. Although I never met him in person, the people of his town have introduced me to Andy and I am grateful.

Will you also share his name with someone today? Tell someone that you want to introduce them to a true American hero and his name is Andy Lancaster.

Gary W. Moore
www.playingwiththeenemy.com

Where Freedom Flies by Diana Nagy

Tonight at 7pm Pacific/10pm Eastern the discussion will turn to the Gathering of Eagles march coming up on September 15, 2007 in Washington D.C. - our guest will be Justin from www.rightontheright.com - those of you that have participated in the G.O.E. events in the past and/or plan to participate in this upcoming event, I encourage you to call into the show at 646-652-2940 or message me during the show on Yahoo Instant Messenger ID douglasvgibbs.

Tune in at Blog Talk Radio tonight for Political Pistachio Radio (www.blogtalkradio.com/politicalpistachio)and the discussion about the Gathering of Eagles.

Yet another reason not to watch FOX's "24" - and yet another mid-week Political Pistachio Radio!

Do you remember when "24", FOX's hit show starring Kiefer Sutherland as Jack Bauer, went green? In short, "24" decided to do whatever it could to offset it's carbon footprint.

Apparently, the mind-control advocates of Global Warming shoved a hybrid up. . . anyway,

Some folks believe that the current warming trend of our planet is destroying the world. Many actually believe that we are causing this change in the climate, as well. I suppose they wish us to believe that if we change enough lightbulbs into compact flourescent bulbs, drive hybrids, and pray to Al Gore and Michael Moore, we might just be able to avert the climate tragedy on the sun-drenched horizon.

NOT!

The Global Warming kooks fail to mention, as they pack their pockets with the money they make from the swindle, that:

- - The Earth has often been hotter than it is now (and that was long before the first SUV hit the road). Recent changes evidenced by this NASA data shows 1934 to be the warmest year of recent record, followed by 1998. Notice the cooling trend that ended in 1972 (these Global Warming folks of today are the same dummies that were warning us of a "Global Cooling scare" during that time period).

- - Only a small percentage of green-house gases are man-made.

- - "Climate Change" is not making Hurricanes happen more frequently and worse. The hurricane season began June 1st and the lack of hurricanes has forced forcasters to down-grade the season. Notice how at the end of the article the writers are quick to try and counter the argument of the editorial written by the scientist the article is about.

Now, "24" has given us another reason to not watch the show. In an obvious reach for the liberal left, which infests Hollywood beyond repair these days, actress-comedian and outspoken liberal Janeane Garofalo will co-star on the drama in the upcoming season. I suppose after her gig with the failed Air America, this was all she could get.

Maybe we'll get lucky and her character will be enlightened by a WMD, and become a supporter of the war on terror.

Yeah, right. There's a better chance that Hollyweird will recognize the lies of Global Warming.

By the way, Wednesday night Political Pistachio Radio rides again! Justin from Right on the Right will be my guest to talk about the upcoming Gathering of Eagles event. Tune in.

Michael Vick to plead guilty to dog fighting charges

Michael Vick, the quarterback of the Atlanta Falcons NFL football team, is being prosecuted for federal dogfighting conspiracy charges that can lead to a possible prison term. Vick's lawyer said today that Vick will plead guilty to the charges.

A prison term will place the Atlanta Falcons quarterback's career in jeopardy, if it already isn't. The offense he is being accused of is punishable by up to five years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

Lead defense attorney Billy Martin said Vick has reached an agreement with federal prosecutors after consulting with his family over the weekend and has agreed to enter a plea of guilty to those charges and to accept full responsibility for his actions and the mistakes he has made. Martin also said in a statement, "Michael wishes to apologize again to everyone who has been hurt by this matter."

NFL commissioner Roger Goodell has disallowed Vick from participating in the Falcons' training camp. Further action by the NFL is currently being withheld while the league conducts its own investigation.

The charges against Vick became federal conspiracy charges when Vick decided to travel in interstate commerce in aid of unlawful activities and conspiracy to sponsor a dog in an animal fighting venture.

The plea bargain came while a grand jury met in private regarding his case. A grand jury could bring up additional charges and the timing of Vick's plea may have been designed so that he would not have to face the new charges in addition to the current charges.

Three of Michael Vick's original co-defendants already have pleaded guilty and agreed to testify against him if the case went to trial.

The gambling allegations alone could trigger a lifetime ban under the NFL's personal conduct policy.

Taiwan Jet Explodes in Japan!

Passengers escaped by using emergency slides to evacuate a China Airlines jet just moments prior to the plane bursting into a fireball this morning. All 165 people aboard escaped uninjured. The pilot jumped from the cockpit at the last second.

No report had been made by the pilot indicating anything was wrong with the Boeing 737-800 prior to the explosion.

"The fire started when the left engine exploded a minute after the aircraft entered the parking spot," a representative of the airport said.

The plane burst into flames seconds after what the last crew member escaped from a rear door and the pilot jumped from the cockpit window, according to footage from national broadcaster NHK.

The source of the problems may have been when the aircraft skidded on the tarmac on its way from the runway to the gate after landing, which is believed to have started a fire that prompted the emergency evacuation.

Japan's National Police Agency said terrorism was not suspected. Some initial reports from ground personnel indicate a fuel leak from the right engine could have led to a series of explosions.

Two passengers sought medical for reasons other than injuries. A ground engineer was knocked off his feet by the force of the blast, but was not hurt.

The fire burned for a full hour before being fully extinguished.

This plane fire on Okinawa is a setback to China Airlines, which in recent years appeared to have improved on a troubled safety record among international carriers.

Love for a Lifetime

Yesterday Mrs. Pistachio and I celebrated our 23rd Wedding Anniversary. Hence, I haven't posted in a couple days. Twenty-three years. Some say it's an accomplishment. Others say we are members of a rare breed in today's society. Trust me, it wasn't easy in the beginning.

We met in high school at a Halloween Party in 1982. She was dressed as a cheerleader and I went as Alfalfa (Little Rascals/Our Gang character) complete with the stem of hair pointing skyward at the crown and clothes reminicent of that era a size too small to add for effect. We danced all night in the den of the house the party was held in to Endless Love by Lionel Ritchie and Diana Ross (some would say the dance was endless).

We experienced our first kiss that night as we parted ways. It happened on the front walkway only paces away from my mom's waiting car, with mom at the wheel. The kiss was electric.

The following Monday I asked her if she wished to go out with me. She said no.

My heart was crushed. I was dizzy with pain. Love claimed yet another hapless victim. And the reason for her denial of love was unexpected. Her decision was based on the fact that she was a senior, and I was a junior. No self-respecting high school senior would ever allow themselves to be seen dating anyone of a lower grade.

Less than a year later after she graduated we began dating regularly. A year after that we were married and I was off to bootcamp in the United States Navy. Christopher, our firstborn, is our honeymoon baby, born April of 1985, nearly nine months after our marriage. On July 1, 1985 I incured a left temporal fracture that nearly left me dead. My faith and her faith did not see eye to eye. And our youth posed it's own problems with its preoccupation of selfishness. Marriage became a difficult task to say the least.

At the start of our marriage we had no idea on what to do, or what was to come. But as we faced the storms of life we grew together, and became each other's best friends. Our love grew stronger. Our marriage strengthened. Our love deepened.

The road was not simple. Our life together was plagued with twists and turns, ups and downs. We faced blessings and challenges, laughter and tears. Finally, we realized that our marriage is not about her or me, but about us, and the plans God has prepared for us. And in the end, with all of the obstacles behind us, we realized that we had ventured the journey together.

I Corinthians 13:13 "And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest is Love."

continued from Ox. . . after Dark

Earthquakes North and South

In Utah a cave-in brought on by seismic activity in the mountain killed a rescue worker and injured eight others who were trying to tunnel through rubble to reach the six trapped miners trapped in the collapsed min.

It was an unexpected setback during the 11th day of the search for the miners who have been lost in the collapsed mine.

In Peru an 8.0 magnitude earthquake has killed at least 450 people. 1,500 people have been reported injured.

Terry Funderburk on Political Pistachio Radio

To listen to tonight's show click HERE
Sites to see Terry's writings: Friends of South Carolina and The Lone Protester

Terry Funderburk and Illegal Aliens

Everybody wants to talk about Immigration Reform. However, what people don't seem to realize is, American Immigration policies don't need to be reformed. Instead, our immigration laws need to be enforced.

Right about now the Liberal Left will pull out the "you are a racist" card.

Hardly.

For those of you that are not longtime readers of Political Pistachio, Mrs. Pistachio was born in Mexico. She came over to the United States when she was a baby as a legal resident alien. (Note the word "legal"). During her lifetime she refused to naturalize because of the lie shoved down her throat that if she became an American Citizen, she would lose her heritage and culture. In 2005 she realized that the lie of "La Raza" was simply that. A lie. She began the process of naturalization that culminated in her saying the oath last April. Her first words after becoming an American Citizen? "I get to vote!"

The issue regarding illegal aliens is far from being a racial issue. In fact, the issue began way back in 1946 when the United Nations began their existence.

The United Nations goal seems noble on the surface (and familiar). The organization has proclaimed that it wishes to end poverty, prejudice, conflict, and war. Their vision of utopia was communism from the start. In fact, the United Nation's founders were known Communists.

And what has this to do with the problem of illegal aliens in America?

The socialistic agenda of the founders of the U.N. and Council on Foreign Relations has been adopted by today's internationalists which comprise the majority of the socialistic left in the Democratic Party, as well as many members of the Republican Party. From that original United Nations charter, Liberals have adopted the position that government should provide the socialist right to adequate housing, a living wage, rest and leisure, medical care, social services, employment security, sick pay, disability pay, old age security pay, and widow’s pay. All noble causes, and an excuse for government to poke their nose into your life and right to self-reliance. The Left has also adopted the right for children to possess "freedom of thought, conscience, and religion [which has led to children suing their parents in the United States]," and the right to privacy (i.e. the right for a child to seek an abortion without parental consent.)

Ah, but the United Nations/Communistic piece of wonder that the Liberals and internationalists share best is the sovereignty destroying right for humans to immigrate and receive welfare services in whatever nation they choose, the socialistic right to eradicate any and all rights and freedoms exercised contrary to the purposes and principles of the good of the global community.

Terry Funderburk is a businessman who owns a roofing business in South Carolina. He understands more than most the damage that is being caused against Americans by illegal aliens running amok in our fine nation. He runs an honest business and is being put out of business because of companies hiring illegal aliens to do the same kind of work at “slave wages.”

Mad as hell, he decided to do something about it! He picketed the job site of one of his competitors, and was arrested for it.

Last Saturday he was on CNN to discuss his story. View the video of that HERE.

When I am not spending time with my family, the internet, or my radio show, I work in the construction industry. When I brought up Terry's story to my boss about how he feels his business is in jeopardy because paying legal wages to legal workers places him at a disadvantage, making it difficult to compete, my boss's response was, "That goes for half the construction companies in Southern California as well."

Terry is the new image of the American Worker. He took a stand, and was arrested for it. This is no longer a government of the people, by the people, and for the people. This current system is favoring those that are not even citizens by providing them with preferential treatment.

Terry says: “It is time to get angry, fellow Americans, it is time to get out of your homes and start setting things right again. It is time to vote out all of the bums who are profaning this great nation and to set her right again. It is time to take back our country.”

Terry Funderburk will be my guest on August 15th on Political Pistachio Radio
Tune in live, and call into the show to let your voice be heard! Be angry! Terry is correct! It is time to take back our country.

Other bloggers posting about this story:

Radio Patriot
Common Sense America

Karl Rove is stepping down

Karl Rove, George W. Bush's political adviser, has announced that he will step down August 31, 2007.

The Leftwing Mainstream Media claims that Rove's standing has diminished considerably, and perhaps it has under the vicious attacks that the Left has consistently launched against him. One attack, of which Mr. Rove survived, was an investigation into the leak of the identity of a Central Intelligence Agency operative.

Mr. Rove announced his decision to step down in an interview published on Monday morning in The Wall Street Journal. In the interview he speculated that President Bush’s approval ratings would rise again, that Iraq would improve, and that a Republican candidate had “a very good chance” to win the 2008 election because the Democrats would nominate Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton.

The name of a successor has not been released yet.

Is my opinion about the Muslims the same as Hitler's toward the Jews?

Okay, you can pick yourself up off the ground, now. I get a lot of e-mail from far left whackoes as well as hate mail from Islamists. I normally ignore it, delete it, and usually never even look at it. Every once in a while, out of curiosity, I will read the e-mail, usually then laugh tirelessly, and delete it.

However, today the text of the e-mail I received from this unknown sender: "Are you aware that your opinion about Muslims is THE EXACT SAME that Hitler had towards the Jews? And don't give me that "Muslims are the Nazis of our time" sh** that you Freepers come up with - it's not like your kind likes the Jews anyway," caught my attention.

It did not catch my attention because it was something new. I get this kind of stuff a lot from The Left. And believe me, I realize this is dangerous responding to such an e-mail, and I realize that I am essentially feeding this kind of idiocy by even giving it the dignity of a response that it hardly deserves. However, because of how common this kind of liberal attack is, I decided to address one of them.

Funny thing is, the Muslims even disagree with that statement regarding who is more like Nazis, as indicated by the photo above and below. They are more than happy to equate themselves with Nazis.

Now, let's get something straight. Not all residents of these Muslim countries are members of the enemy group. In fact, I heard on the documentary, Epicenter (based on the book by Joel Rosenberg) that conversion to Christianity in Iran is at an all-time high! But, my opinion about Muslims that wish to wage Jihad, and destroy Israel, and bring about the demise of The West is hardly Hitleric. In fact, my opinion towards this enemy is akin to that of Roosevelt and Churchill towards Nazi Germany. Let me help you understand. My attitude toward these people is not hate. It is the realization that if we don't defend ourselves, they will kill us. Simple as that.

Understand, the ultimate goal of this war against terror is the protection of the United States of America. Iraq is merely a battle in this war. Since the surge has been put into place progress has been made in numerous ways. As progress is being made against the insurgents, tribal leaders are realizing we are the ones that can be trusted, and less American lives are being lost as stability in a number of provinces is being attained.

Is this battle in Iraq related to our war against terror? Al Qaeda seems to think so.

But why invade Iraq? What did they have to do with 9/11?

Iraq had more to do with 9/11 than the media will tell you. Much of their involvement was indirect; training, and financial support. But realize, we did not invade the people of Iraq, we invaded Saddam Hussein's Iraq. Could you imagine a world today with Saddam still in power?

In addition to all of the known reasons for not abandoning Iraq (bloodbath, regional instability should we leave, etc.) is the location of Iraq. The nation is at the heart of where terrorism breeds and from where terror strikes from. And, due to the location of Iraq, our presence there serves as a buffer between the nations bent on a new Holocaust, and our allies in Israel.

I do not like war. I do not like the fact that our troops must fight on foreign shores. But as a military veteran I understand that such wishes of peace do not jive with the reality we find ourselves in. Peace, due to the fact that the world contains a lot of evil in it, can only be secured through strength - and action if necessary. Reality dictates that remain in the region, and even if you are against our presence in the region, you know as well as I do that a sudden withdrawal would create nothing less than an all-out blood bath orchestrated by al Qaeda (who has a great interest in the region). Remember, Iran, whose leader (Ahmadinejad) is convinced that he must create an Armageddon type scenario in order to free Islam's 12th Imam, and Syria (who has a history of links to terror in the region) wish us to pull out as well. Since when should we bow down to the wishes of the enemy?

Oh, yeah, Hollyweird does (i.e. visits with Castro and Hugo Chavez).

So which is it? Are we proud Americans striving for victory? Or are we doom and gloomers ashamed of the fact that we have it so good in this country?

Personally, I prefer victory.

Added note: The blogger at http://www.rightontheright.com/ is raising money to try to get to the Gathering of Eagles event coming up next month in Washington D.C. - Pay him a visit and donate a few bucks. He promises to give us a good report about his trip on Political Pistachio Radio after he returns, by the way, so we gotta get him there. :)

Also, don't forget, Terry Funderburk will be on Political Pistachio Radio this coming Wednesday at 5pm PST/8pm EST. Tune in live to hear his story about his battle with competitors that hire illegal aliens, and how he was arrested for taking a stand!

New Haven Connecticut has decided to issue ID's to Illegal Aliens

The Mayor of New Haven, Connecticut, John DeStefano, has decided that it is wise to give illegal immigrants in his city an ID card to assist them. His statement regarding this move was that we need ". . .to be real about why this is happening first of all. The failure of the federal government to recognize and embrace thousands and thousands of hard-working residents, is subjecting those people and their families to abuse and exploitation."

Are you kidding me? Embrace? With what? They are driving this nation and it's people into the toilet with their invasion. And don't give me this "they do jobs Americans won't do." I do a job that I'm not supposed to be willing to do in the construction industry when I'm not blogging or hosting my radio show. Even though the unemployment rate is under 5% due to Bush's economic strategies which includes a tax cut that needs to be made permanent, there are still plenty of Americans without jobs, and I guarantee you that if the illegals vacated those positions, Americans would be glad to slip into their place.

"Oh," would say the opposition, "what about the higher wages that companies would have to pay?"

I say, What about the American worker's need for a job? And if you are so worried about the expense of business going up for these business owners because they suddenly have to pay legal wages, rather than slave wages, how about having the government step back and eliminate the unbelievable amount of regulatory fees and licenses that also make it very expensive to run a business? That way, businesses can afford to be run, and the American worker receives more jobs. Let's invest in a free market and legal business environment by eliminating illegal workers, slave wages, and taxation and fees that breaks the back of American businesses!

And what about those businesses that are being run legally, but can't compete because of the companies low-balling them on bids because they pay less for their worker's wages?

Ask Terry Funderburk about that one this coming Wednesday on Political Pistachio Radio! Terry is a business owner that is slowly going out of business because he can't compete against businesses that are breaking the law (laws that are not being enforced) by hiring illegals!

And here is a link for a video from ABC News asking folks what they think of the decision by New Haven to provide ID's to the local illegals.

08.10.07 - 7 Illegal Immigration Stories

CNN/Lou Dobbs Tonight reports on Newark Murders, New Jersey Governor Corzine on Illegals, Bush's new so-called crackdown on illgals by fining employers of illegals, and this coming Wednesday's guest on Political Pistachio Radio - Terry Funderburk - and his fight against companies competing with his business, but his competition hires illegal aliens, giving them an unfair advantage. Then a story about a smuggling operation out of Mexico, and how Mexico is meddling in our fight against the illegals.

Are You Ready For Atlas Shrugs?

Atlas Shrugs was our guest today on Political Pistachio Radio! Click HERE to listen.

From all directions! Liberals, Illegals, Islam, and absolute nonsensical Bull!

We'll begin with an interesting article that was sent to me by a liberal that enjoys e-mailing me. We'll call it Nance Rants: I'm a Twenty-Six Percenter! at Political Pistachio Too! Click that link to check it out. You will have fun reading this one - Mrs. Pistachio was laughing her butt off.

Have you heard about what's going on with Michael Savage and the illegal alien aiders and abettors? San Francisco city officials are trying to get taxpayers to pay for alien green cards and registration! Michael Savage called them on it, and now he is a target. In fact, there is a picket/protest planned at his studio on Wednesday, August 15, 2007, and the city officials are getting together with the illegals to try to take away his first amendment right! They even passed a resolution condemning his comments! Savage's response is not to sit down and take it! That is not Michael Savage's style. And if he has to, he will take it to court to defend his right to practice Freedom of Speech and Press. Question: Since when does the rights of criminals outweigh the rights of an American Citizen?

Did you hear about the Newark, New Jersey murders? Three college students were murdered execution-style, and two of the victims may have been raped. The suspect? An illegal alien. A second suspect was a 15 year old kid!

Ahh, and how about the Gay Logo Debate with the Democrats and Melissa Etheridge. Honestly, it must have been a hoot to watch, sorry I missed it. I am sure that the men were blushing the whole time, and Hillary had a great big smile. Maybe.

In Europe, the system that the Liberals would love us to emulate, a Christian preacher was fined for preaching his biblical message in public. Specifically, this happened in Oslo, Norway. Of course, they are falling all over each other trying to provide concessions for the Muslims, such as foot washing stations and prayer rooms.

And here's an article about the War and Islam's "End-Game."

And here's another about Congress's poor report card and love of Pork.

Oh, and the best of it all, Atlas Shrugs is the guest on Political Pistachio Radio tomorrow, Saturday, August 11, 2007!

Extreme Lies

Former Vice President Al Gore, the guru of the Global Warming Lies, has decided that big corporations are paying for research that creates propaganda to dispute the "scientific consensus."

What consensus? Junk science agreed upon by a bunch of liberals and Hollyweird celebrities does not make it a consensus.

Let's take Roy Spencer, for example. Roy Spencer is the Principal Research Scientist at the University of Alabama. He was also the recipient of NASA's medal for Exceptional Scientific Achievement and the American Meteorological Society's Special Award for his satellite based temperature monitoring work. And he has come to the conclusion that Global Warming being manmade is an irresponsible position to be taking - as well as assuming that something like Katrina may have been caused by man's "carbon footprint." Listen to an interview of him at Nathan's Blog.

Okay, so apparently all scientists do not agree with Mr. Gore - Roy Spencer is one such example out of many.

"But, gosh," the liberal may say, "the horrendous weather patterns are proof enough!"

Mr. Gore has stated that Global Warming is the cause of an increase in hurricanes.

Hurricane season began June 1 of this year, and, well, where's the hurricanes? How many have we had in this horribly desperate season of hurricanes caused by Global Warming?

Exactly: NONE.

Now the global warming crowd is so confused over the inconsistency of their data that they don't know what to do!

Besides, the environment is the least of our concerns, anyway, and most folks know it. Why? Because despite what the Left is preaching, people realize that there will be no extreme impact of Global Warming in the next 50 years because man-made Global Warming does not exist. Climate temperature changes are a natural occurrence. It is now cooler than it was during Jesus' days, and cooler than when the Vikings visited Greenland back hundreds of years ago (long before SUV's, and check this out - Greenland was "Green"!).

Don't get me wrong, however. If I thought that for one minute the EPA and Gore was genuinely correct, and doing what they claim to be doing, I'd support them with everything. I do believe we should be good stewards of the planet. But what it comes down to is money and political agenda. The EPA, for example, is an agency seeking to expand its environmental extremism and broad regulatory powers while selectively ignoring science fact, and is working with left-wing groups more bent on the destruction of capitalism than on the protection of the environment.

For example, based on the rantings and ravings of Rachel Carlson claiming that DDT, an insecticide, needed to be banned because of this harmful effect and that harmful effect (primarily, she said it was carcinogenic), DDT was banned in the United States in 1972. In 1970 the National Academy of Sciences stated that "To only a few chemicals does man owe as great a debt as to DDT. In little than two decades, DDT has prevented 500 million human deaths, due to malaria."

In 2006 the United Nations World Health Organization gave DDT a "clean bill of health." Due to Carson's lack of research, millions have died from malaria. Her hysteria about the evils of DDT has killed people, just as the hysteria about Global Warming is lining the pockets of the new reverends of the Global Warming Church with plenty of cash.

The EPA has a history of wiping out whole industries and banning products on the basis of bad science and we haven't learned our lesson yet.

Al Gore is attempting to create a regulatory juggernaut fueled by his flawed science and socialistic agenda. There is no scientific consensus. The environmentalists, with their untruthful strategies, have convinced the Left of lies, and they have fallen for it hook, line and sinker. Hundreds of thousands have died in the past because of the EPA's stupidity, and now more may die, and billions of dollars lost, because of the Global Warming crowd's stupidity.

And none of their dire predictions are coming true - though anytime something does happen, they sure are quick to blame it on Global Warming.

Also see my post at MyPoint on American Troops hitting Sadr City in Baghdad; and the story of a business man fighting illegal immigration at American Pundit.

An Iraq War Veteran Running for Congress on Political Pistachio Radio!

An Iraq War Veteran Running For Congress on Political Pistachio!
Today (Wednesday, August 8, 2007 at 7pm Pacific Time/10pm Eastern Time) is a special mid-week edition of Political Pistachio Radio. Our guest will be John Kanaley. John is an Iraq War Veteran that actually voluntarily extended his tour so that he may serve in Baghdad. In 2003 he served for Central Command in Qatar and Iraq; in 2004 John served with the Theater Support Command in Kuwait with additional assignments in Iraq; In 2005 he served in Baghdad with the Civil-Military Operations to assist with the Iraqi elections as well as serving as a Team Chief for future plans in Strategy, Plans, and Assessments (SPA) with Multi-National Forces, Iraq (MNFI). His second tour ended in October 2006. The seat in the 37th Congressional District in California is vacant due to the death of Juanita Millernder-McDonald, who lost her battle with cancer in April. John Kanaley is campaigning as a Republican for the seat which will be decided by special election on August 21. In addition to his military career he has also served in the Long Beach Police Department with 16 years of service. His Army career spans over 22 years as active military, National Guard, and Reserves. In the Army he is a Lieutenant Colonel. His purpose for running for Congress, according to his site, is to add support in Congress for the War on Terror from somebody who served in Iraq, support the GOP in its effort to regain control of Congress in 2008, ensure the concerns of Long Beach, California are heard in Congress, make the tax cuts permanent, and promote business at all levels throughout his district.

Then on Saturday the wild and crazy (and great) Atlas Shrugs will grace us with her presence! We will talk with her about her V-logs, her experiences with past guests on her Blog Talk Radio show (such as Mark Steyn, Tom DeLay, Robert Spencer, and so on), and about the War on Terror! It will prove to be a fantastic broadcast - don’t miss Political Pistachio when Atlas Shrugs pays us a visit!

Why we should remain in Iraq, and why it was right in going into the region. . .

I received the following in my e-mail recently, and just had to share. Note: I don't know if it is legitimately by the soldier listed at the bottom, and I really am not concerned with whether or not it is. The reason I am sharing this is because the analogy is on the money.


A little reality check......


The other day, my nine year old son wanted to know why we were at war...My husband looked at our son and then looked at me. My husband and I were in the Army during the Gulf War and we would be honored to serve and defend our Country again today. I knew that my husband would give him a good explanation. My husband thought for a few minutes and then told my son to go stand in our front living room window. He said "Son, stand there and tell me what you see?" "I see trees and cars and our neighbor's houses." he replied. "OK, now I want you to pretend that our house and our yard is the United States of America and you are President Bush." Our son giggled and said, "OK!" "Now son, I want you to look out the window and pretend that every house and yard on this block is a different country;" my husband said. "OK Dad, I'm pretending." "Now I want you to stand there and look out the window and pretend you see Saddam come out of his house with his wife, he has her by the hair and is hitting her. You see her bleeding and crying. He hits her in the face, he throws her on the ground, then he starts to kick her to death. Their children run out and are afraid to stop him, they are screaming and crying, they are watching this but do nothing because they are kids and they are afraid of their father. You see all of this, son....what do you do?" "Dad?" "What do you do son?" "I'd call the police, Dad." "OK. Pretend that the police are the United Nations. They take your call. They listen to what you know and saw but they refuse to help. What do you do then son?" "Dad.......... but the police are supposed to help!" My son starts to whine. "They don't want to son, because they say that it is not their place or your place to get involved and that you should stay out of it," my husband says. "But Dad...he killed her!!" my son exclaims. "I know he did...but the police tell you to stay out of it. Now I want you to look out that window and pretend you see our neighbor who you're pretending is Saddam, turn around and do the same thing to his children." "Daddy...he kills them?" "Yes son, he does. What do you do?" "Well, if the police don't want to help, I will go and ask my next door neighbor to help me stop him." our son says. "Son, our next door neighbor sees what is happening and refuses to get involved as well. He refuses to open the door and help you stop him," my husband says. "But Dad, I NEED help!!! I can't stop him by myself!!" "WHAT DO YOU DO SON?" Our son starts to cry. "OK, no one wants to help you, the man across the street saw you ask for help and saw that no one would help you stop him. He stands taller and puffs out his chest. Guess what he does next son?" "What Daddy?" "He walks across the street to the old lady's house and breaks down her door and drags her out, steals all her stuff and sets her house on fire and then...he kills her. He turns around and sees you standing in the window and laughs at you. WHAT DO YOU DO?" "Daddy..." "WHAT DO YOU DO?" Our son is crying and he looks down and he whispers, I'd close the blinds, Daddy." My husband looks at our son with tears in his eyes and asks him, "Why?" "Because Daddy.....the police are supposed to help people who need them,and they won't help.... You always say that neighbors are supposed to HELP neighbors, but they won't help either...they won't help me stop him...I'm afraid....I can't do it by myself Daddy! .....I can't look out my window and just watch him do all these terrible things and...and.....do nothing...so....I'm just going to close the blinds....so I can't see what he's doing........and I'm going to pretend that it is not happening." I start to cry. My husband looks at our nine year old son standing in the window, looking pitiful and ashamed at his answers to my husband's questions and he says... "Son." "Yes, Daddy." "Open the blinds because that man.... he's at your front door... "WHAT DO YOU DO?" My son looks at his father, anger and defiance in his eyes. He balls up his tiny fists and looks his father square in the eyes, without hesitation he says: "I DEFEND MY FAMILY DAD!! I'M NOT GONNA LET HIM HURT MOMMY OR MY SISTER, DAD!!! I'M GONNA FIGHT HIM, DAD, I'M GONNA FIGHT HIM!!!!!" I see a tear roll down my husband's cheek and he grabs our son to his chest and hugs him tight, and says... "It's too late to fight him, he's too strong and he' s already at YOUR front door son.....you should have stopped him BEFORE he killed his wife, and his children and the old lady across the way. You have to do what's right, even if you have to do it alone, before it's too late." my husband whispers. THAT scenario I just gave you is WHY we are at war with Iraq. When good men stand by and let evil happen, Son, THAT is because the greatest atrocities in the world won't affect him.

"YOU MUST NEVER BE AFRAID TO DO WHAT IS RIGHT! EVEN IF YOU HAVE TO DO IT ALONE!" BE PROUD TO BE AN AMERICAN! BE PROUD OF OUR TROOPS!! SUPPORT THEM!!! SUPPORT AMERICA SO THAT IN THE FUTURE OUR CHILDREN WILL NEVER HAVE TO CLOSE THEIR BLINDS..."

This should be printed in every newspaper and posted in every school in America. Of course that won't happen so we'll use the internet. If your blinds are closed do nothing with this email. If they are open I do not need to tell you what to do..

GOD BLESS !!!!!!!!!!

Steven R Chandler, CMSgt
332 ELRS/Vehicle Management Flight
Balad Air Base, Iraq

Harvest Crusades Anaheim 2007

Watch Here

Babies, Children, and Parenthood

Two nights ago my wife's sister gave birth to a healthy, seven pound baby girl. It is her second child. Tonight I attended a family gathering and while I was there the discussion led to the statement being made that "Children bring families together." To everyone's dismay, I replied, "Not necessarily."

Don't get me wrong. Children are wonderful blessings, and if a couple responds to the call of their new family and actively act with responsibility in relation to their roles, the unity of a family is an amazing and wonderful experience. As I have told many before their children were born, the love you have for your child is a unique love, one that can never be explained and is only understood by parents. It is the kind of love that is so strong that it hurts inside. And no matter how old your child becomes, your love remains consistent. This is one of the reasons I have so much difficulty understanding why a mother would be willing to terminate the life of her young through abortion.

Being a parent, however, requires a great amount of patience and responsibility, and sometimes can place a strain on a relationship. In these cases, I believe a child can actually not necessarily bring a family together. Of course this is rarely the case.

It is amazing how much love and devotion you put into your children, and a household full of love, limitations, and strong values increases the odds that a child will wind up a good, productive citizen; but it doesn't guarantee it. I can't count how many times I've seen good children come from screwed up homes, and wonderful homes put out some strange children.

Anyhow, as a parent, this is the way I see parenting. First of all I believe that a parent ought to see their child as God sees them - as a gift or reward - not as an interruption or mistake or tax break. A parent ought to understand that the child needs, during certain times in their lives, for the parent to be playful. That's right, I truly think that it is important for a parent to rediscover play and do the things with their child as the child does them. Enjoy walking barefoot through the grass, and getting down and playing with them when they are younger. This leads to the need for a parent to physically express their love. Playing with the children shows this, as well as hugging, kisses on the cheek, tickling, etc. A child's emotional security depends heavily upon a strong and healthy love bond.

Giving your child direct eye contact shows your child that you care, and being a good listener is just as important, even if he or she is about to tell you the same story the hundredth time. Being a good listener involves the eyes, ears, mind and heart - and do it kneeling down to their level so that you may be eye to eye. This leads to spending quality time with your child - regular, consistent time.

Will these things ensure that your child will grow up to be an angel? Not really, but the odds that you will build a strong foundation in your child that they will return to time and time again when life gets difficult goes up. I admit that when I was younger I made my mistakes, but with all of the trial and error, I have found that these things I have mentioned are critical in raising children. If my sister-in-law ever asks for advice, that is what I will tell her.

God Bless, and be safe.

Post began at Ox. . . After Dark.

Harvest Crusades, Gathering of Eagles, and Richard Michael Smith

Tonight is the first night of a three night event in Anaheim, California. The Harvest Crusades are a high-energy, entertaining event that features some of the top artists in Christian music, followed up by a message of inspiration by Greg Laurie. The Harvest Crusades, put on by Harvest Christian Fellowship in Riverside, California (which, by the way, is the church I attend) have also taken place in many other places around the world. I will be attending the Sunday night event, and will be wearing my Political Pistachio shirt (same one in pic above). Hope to see ya there.

The Gathering of Eagles will be in D.C. to face Congress on September 10, 2007. On September 15, they'll be standing up to the anti-war, anti-American Left as they call for our defeat in Iraq and Afghanistan. Don't let their message go unanswered! Justin from Right on the Right is raising funds so that he may go and be a part of it. Feel free to visit his site and donate.

Tomorrow's guest (or today's if it's Saturday already for you) on Political Pistachio Radio is Richard Michael Smith. Richard is an independent candidate for President of the United States with a hard hitting stance when it comes to politics. Tune in at 4pm Pacific Time/7pm Eastern Time.