Jingonext

Veterans Day, formerly known as Armistice Day, is observed annually in the United States to honor all those, living and dead, who served with the US armed forces in wartime. Some states observe the holiday November 11, others on the fourth Monday of October.

President Woodrow Wilson announced the creation of Armistice Day in 1919 to commemorate the termination of World War I at 11 am, November 11, 1918. President Wilson issued a proclamation eulogizing fallen Allied soldiers on the first anniversary of the truce. The day then became a holiday in the United States, France, the United Kingdom, and Canada.

Canada calls this holiday Remembrance Day, and in the UK, it's known as Remembrance Sunday. It acquired its present name and broadened significance in the US in 1954 during the presidency of General Eisenhower.

Who knows how jingo(ist)(ism) turned to negative evocation - wouldn't be a first definition switch or misunderstanding. A little more time spent researching related wording turned up extra most interesting pro-ammo, see below. All depends on the view. I'll be right here, whistlin' and pushin' a happy jingo tune. Why? Because I can.

"Patriotism is not an outmoded concept. It is not jingoistic. It is not the cause of this war - the terrorists are. But our patriotism will help to keep us united and focused as we face the enemy. Most of us don't love America simply because we are its citizens. Patriotism for us is not some mindless emotional attachment to our nation. While it generates visceral feelings of pride it has intellectual moorings as well. It springs forth from a deep devotion to our founding principles, chief among them being our glorious freedom safeguarded by the rule of law. Patriotism is vitally important because it is about more than mere survival. It emboldens us in our struggle to preserve our distinct way of life, because it understands that peace is not 'so sweet as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery'." - David Limbaugh From The Federalist newsletter - subscribe info and more below

Several versions of this follow, you're welcome to any of them. They do get my point across but I'm not artistically happy with any of them. I know when I'm licked though, only so many ways to tweak. Maybe Santa will bring me a spiffy new program :)

Jingoist: extreme bellicose nationalist
bellicose - having or showing a ready disposition to fight
contentious: adjective: involving or likely to cause controversy
nationalist: noun: one who loves and defends his or her country

Note to new readers and a reminder to old friends: Why am I doing this? Keeps me outta the bars :) But seriously folks ... this is what I do. The main subject matter has changed, still, recording and publishing is the best way I know to preserve and keep track of the goodies - as much for my own reference as distribution. Where do I find the time? Amazing how much time becomes available once you set BS tolerance level to zero. Unbridled idiocy continues, the clueless will whine and rant on their righteous little ways forever more, no matter what I have to say. I wish them every happiness their misery affords.

Regarding the other 10 percent, who are they?
Notice the preface, as a correct disclaimer example. So big deal, the friend's husband is retired CIA. Who cares? At least it doesn't claim the originator as possessed of magical "divine" authoritative insight. BTW, watch for opinions as red flags on supposedly legitimate news flashes. Ideally, reporters do not offer opinions, only info. Examples of BS and hype follow this piece, which is strictly opinion, clearly stated as such. I left it fairly well intact so not to disturb the sentiment. Had a few minor typos and I did change the Rev.'s name to initials - direct public slander is a no no. Punctuation is not necessarily "correct" but unchanged. No punches pulled, to which I say, right on! If author is identified, it would be a pleasure to apply credit. BTW #2, not going for know-it-all status here. When I mention edits, there's a reason - usually tips that may improve others' writing.

I didn't write this, and I don't have a clue who did but it was sent to me from a friend whose husband is a retired CIA agent. They say pretty much the way the rest of us feel. At least the 90 percent of us, that is. The heck with the others.

I'm as patriotic as anyone. In the wake of September 11 and the evil that was done to the United States, I fly my flags and mourn with our Nation. But I want to take a minute to pick on some people.

Please understand, I love the way our nation has come together in the last few weeks. I saw a recent poll that President George W. Bush has a 90 percent approval rating - the highest ever for an American President. But, please tell me, who are the other 10 percent?

They are a professor at The University of North Carolina, who called on Bush to apologize. Yes, apologize to the world for American Imperialism. That this is our fault.

They are JJ, who said that America is now a "police state" and we will lose our "civil liberties." That racial profiling will rule, and we will lose our freedom.

They are college students across our nation that carry "peace" symbols, yet threaten to vandalize any fire truck in Berkley, CA. that flies the American flag.

I will deal with them one by one:

First, to the college professor: You are a fascist idiot. And I am chilled knowing that you, and people like you are teaching America's youth. You are no American, and should be deported to Cuba on the next raft headed that way.

Second, to JJ: Thank you for your kind words at time when America is pulling together. Nothing like a moron like you to stir up dissention during our darkest hour. Don't forget, J, that people died for our freedoms long before you "blessed" us with your forgettable presence. That freedom comes with a price. And if you aren't willing to pay that price, then shut up, go visit your mistress, and stay off my TV!

And lastly, to the college students: You have no idea what you have. You've been fed with a silver spoon, bought from the closest Saks in your suburban neighborhood, and you have not the slightest inkling of the threat posed to America. Grow up. Get a job. Try balancing that job with a wife or husband, a couple of kids, and a mortgage payment. Try wondering how to spread yourself just thin enough you don't crumble. And try being so many things to so many people, who depend solely on you. Worry about their futures for a change, instead of yours. See beyond your boyhood blinders in a world where there are people that would like nothing more than to take you down. To destroy those freedoms you have not even begun to understand. And learn to find strength in your God and your flag, because when Daddy cuts off the money supply, that's all you've got left!

I have heard many people the last few days start to waiver in their vengeance. Poor Afghanistan. They are a troubled people ravaged by war and famine. They have done nothing wrong, and now many innocent people will die.

People, understand this: New Yorkers are digging through rubble, trying to find bodies so loved ones can bury them. Problem is, they are only finding body parts. There were about 15 day care centers in the World Trade Centers. Each one had about 25 children in them. That's almost 400! And when I see on TV, a firefighter crying because he can't stomach the idea of seeing just one more child's leg, arm, head, or part of a torso charred in the rubble - dismembered to the point where parents and loved ones are asked to bring their toothbrushes so that they can identify them by DNA. Where the stench of death haunts the air to the point where it chokes you. Where nearly 7,000 crushed, burned, mutilated bodies rest buried under thousands of tons of rubble that used to be jobs to nearly 50,000 people. Where melted crayons and toys cling to the sides of steel girders where children used to play. And where those children now lay dead - no futures - no tomorrow.

To those who are losing their stomachs for vengeance: I say, do not forget. Do not ever, ever, forget. America can not, will not, tolerate this. Ever. Under no circumstances. Not here.

Not our children. Not our parents, our brothers or our sisters. Ever. And if innocent people, in a land far away, have to become "collateral damage" to avenge the deaths of our innocent? I say: So be it.

Remember, this is our way of life we are defending. Our freedom. Our freedom to live day to day, not in terror but in the pursuit of happiness. The broader spectrum here is the future of our way of life. If innocent people are killed while we rid the world of this evil - that can any time come back and kill even more of us - then that is the price to pay. Think about that the next time you see a child.

I was at a UNC lecture the other day where they played a video of Oliver North during the Iran-Contra deals during the Reagan administration. I was only 14 back then but was surprised by this particular clip. There was Olie in front of God and Country getting the third degree. But what he said stunned me. He was being drilled by some senator I didn't recognize who asked him ... http://www.snopes.com/rumors/north.htm - Gee willikers Dude - don'tcha think the senator might have been identified?

This one stunk from line one (the versions I received were even more ridiculous): Green Party activist Nancy Oden was denied permission to fly because she represents a political party that opposes the bombing of Afghanistan. http://www.snopes.com/rumors/oden.htm

I swiped the quote, used as a tag line, from the designer of main page above which is a new award winner. Thanks Jon, and for the rest so generously shared. See more outstanding efforts, including several from other countries: http://www.therealmartha.com/WARAwards/index.htm

The following was lifted from http://www.fortunecity.com/millenium/bankhead/399/pat.html. If you can stand way too many pop-up aggravations, knock yourself out - looked like several good links included. It happened to be the first on www.google.com search results for "John Wayne military" (using quotes narrows the field). I was as sure as I could be Wayne had never served in the military mainly because I was so surprised when I first learned that. However, state of cerebral rot considered, wanted to verify.

John Wayne had a deep love for his country. This patriotism is reflected throughout his life. He had wanted to go into the military but an old football injury prevented it. "More than anything else, I wanted to go to Annapolis and become an officer in the Navy. It was a terrible disappointment when I didn't make it." We may have lost the chance at a great officer but he never failed us. Wayne worked with the USO (United Service Organization) in supporting US troops from WW2 through to Vietnam and received many honors. He said, "Sure I wave the American flag. Do you know a better flag to wave? Sure I love my country with all her faults. I'm not ashamed of that, never have been and never will be."

The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance is one favorite Wayne movie for numerous reasons. Topping the list is what I believe to be a good representation of newspaper beginnings, "Dutton Peabody (Edmond O'Brien) writes stories in The Shinbone Star about the need for statehood and other pressing issues for this territory." Later, when the truth (or as one critic suggests, is it?) comes out, "This is the West, sir. When the legend becomes fact, print the legend." From http://www.digitallyobsessed.com/showreview.php3?ID=1332

Once upon a time, newspapers did stand as reliable. Damn shame today, with almost everyone crying wolf, nobody knows what to believe. Legitimate mistakes, courtesy of general human fallibility are forgivable. It's the deliberate hype that grinds my gut. We'll be in a helluva shape when something that sounds like War of the Worlds (Orson Welles' great 1938 radio hoax http://www.transparencynow.com/welles.htm) turns out to be real. Whaddya know - a lucky hit: The News Media's Effort to Hide from Significant Truth http://www.transparencynow.com/news/preface.htm

From Don Henley, to his local radio station - 2/10/98 - I don't mind using names here, the credit holds Henley (http://www.donhenley.com/ ) responsible. The name was vaguely familiar, aha, The Eagles, there's an interesting coincidence. Really don't have time to research further (nothing turned up on hoax sites) - what matters here - not one statement is arguable.

      The Bill Clinton/Monica Lewinsky scandal is the biggest news item in recent history, receiving more coverage, both nationally and worldwide, than the O.J. Simpson affair. The news media, by their own admission, are out of control, and there is a documented public backlash to the sensationalized over-reporting of the more prurient aspects of this event.
      When I wrote Dirty Laundry in 1981, I thought things were bad then. Little did I realize that Western culture would escalate its feeding frenzy. The hunger of the public for the tawdry, the lascivious; the outrageous and malicious and the rush of the news media to give it to them in abundance is indeed a cultural phenomenon. Andy Warhol said that in the future, everyone would be famous for 15 minutes. Evidently, time is going to prove him right. Other people's troubles, especially if those "other people" happen to be powerful or famous already, have been elevated from simple voyeurism to blood sport for fun and profit.
      This profit-driven phenomenon has given birth to the bizarre circuses that surrounded the O.J. Simpson trial, the death of Princess Diana, and now the alleged Clinton/Lewinsky affair. The ringmasters heretofore have been people such as Geraldo Rivera, Jenny Jones, Jerry Springer, Sally Jessy Raphael, and, of course, the publishers of the weekly tabloid newspapers. Now, however, it seems as if everybody's in on the act - from Time magazine to The New York Times to Tom Brokaw. On almost a daily basis, reporters talk about the news media in the third person and criticize it as though they weren't a part of it. It's all getting pretty surreal. Our cultural dirty laundry is piling up everywhere and the song, "Dirty Laundry," is more relevant now than ever. It's a hit all over again. Please put it in rotation now and watch what happens. Sincerely, Don Henley

I had to go to the audio page on Henley's site to refresh my memory - oh yea, absolutely relevant.

Amazing how current events are shedding new light on those we thought we knew. Friends' actions and reactions, positive and negative have been a bit of a surprise, others not so. Amazing what fools some of our celebrity "friends" have made of themselves. After all, we do feel like we know these people. We watch them every week, go to their movies, follow their romances, trash 'em like a real friend by spreading gossip. Gawd, what would they do without us? Quite a few are going to have to adjust to life without me if they don't clean up their stories.

Important: some kind of source reference is necessary with submissions of any kind. I will run the occasional blind piece, if it makes sense and credit doesn't matter. Sensitive or accusatory issues get sticky - I won't throw anything out there without backup - like what's with the money ...

In case you haven't heard, the Red Cross is now saying that they will not be using all of the September 11th donations for those victims, but will be redirecting quite a bit of the money toward "broad-based" needs of the organization.

http://foxnews.com/story/0,2933,37813,00.html - from the O'Reilly Factor, celebrity response to the fund-raising controversy. My question: what is so damn difficult about putting two words together, maybe they need a little prompting ... listen carefully now ... "This sucks." So far, as far as I know, only Clint Eastwood had the cajones to speak out. Nice job - perfectly balanced, intelligent points and workable suggestions for solutions made.

I don't donate to huge organizations - I want to know exactly who is doing what with my money - eliminates nasty surprises down the road. I can not imagine how anyone who gave to the Red Cross and others under the gun right now must be feeling except screwed. Especially those who couldn't afford maybe even $10 but gave anyway. Hard lesson to swallow. A long time ago I decided to focus on one area. Humane education, rather the lack of, is responsible for a multitude of human evils. Lack of life respect issues must be dealt with in any society before it becomes completely civilized.

Every positive result from the simplest effort eggs me on to do more. Those who don't care about animals love to accuse people like me of not caring about people, particularly children. That would be because they are too busy wasting bitching and sniveling energy to take a look at and do something about reality. No time like the present for everyone to do a little priority sorting. Oddly enough, I was planning to get into those sore spots when the following popped up in a newsletter. One more time, author credit wasn't clear but it doesn't matter.

Where do you find children living on dirt floors in homes without proper plumbing that have broken windows, holes in the walls and ceilings?

Where do you find children who rarely see a piece of fruit or fresh vegetables and don't eat half the time, unless they get fed at school after riding a bus for almost two hours to get there?

Where do you find children who go without proper winter clothing and getting sick due to lack of medical care?

Where do you find children and women who are abused due to the fact that their spouses are uneducated and out of work?

Right here in the United States Of America! My daughter does a ministry through her church in the state of West Virginia in the Appalachian area. I know all of this as I have seen it.

Don't ask me to donate money or feel sorry for others outside this country, we have enough poverty right here. Women in this country sell their bodies to put food on the table for their children. Children of poverty* are abused mentally and physically. The elderly have to make a choice to eat or pay for their medications. The next time you donate money overseas think of this country first.

I hope our decision makers finally realize attempts to save the world can bring on nasty paybacks. I am not unsympathetic, I'm practical. There is only so much any one person or government can do. It's as true and simple as when Momma ain't happy, nobody's happy. Momma Liberty has her own to protect. It's anyone's choice what to do with their money - surely taking a look around one's own neighborhood isn't that difficult. Thousands of babies are born every day, everywhere, to the wrong parents - regardless of income or education. Accidents far outnumber planned pregnancies. Think about it. Situations change for the worse due to unemployment or the loss of the breadwinner - stress relief becomes alcohol and/or drug abuse - often leading to criminal behavior, the list goes on. "Love" turns to fear and hostility, leaving single parents to do the best they can through tough times, with or without family support. Wouldn't it be nice to watch the kid next door develop into a useful, productive member of society instead of a statistic? Doesn't matter where you live, there's something you can do to strengthen your community for the betterment of all.

*Abuse knows no economic or social boundaries. Anyone who thinks it only happens "across the tracks" needs to open their eyes. Realize too, women and children are not the only victims. I have no official tally pertinent to veterans' issues, only personal knowledge.

"The purpose of human life is to show compassion and the will to help others." - Albert Schweitzer

It is the soldier, not the reporter who has given us freedom of the press
It is the soldier, not the clergyman who has given us freedom of religion
It is the soldier, not the poet who has given us freedom of speech
It is the soldier, not the campus organizer who has given us freedom to demonstrate
It is the soldier, not the lawyer who has given us the right to a fair trial

It is the soldier
Who salutes the flag
Who serves under the flag
Who defends the flag
Who follows the flag into battle
Whose coffin is draped by the flag
Who gives the protestor the right to burn the flag

From the same list as the discussion I ran last page - I quit posting for lack of time to spend on the idiots who keep jumping in. Fortunately, Rod seems to have a knack for saying exactly what's on my mind.

Try to ask the Taliban for rights or religious freedom. Why are some of you people so f**king dense that you shame our people and government for attacking the oppressors of the people of Afghanistan. I am very, very sick of it. In fact, beyond sick, it makes me sick to my stomach to see so many turncoats and cowards. Rod

http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/amex/warletters/ - Features Andrew Carroll's new book, "War Letters: Extraordinary Correspondence From American Wars," a compilation of 200 personal letters. All book profits go to veterans' causes. Carroll's Legacy Project is dedicated to encouraging Americans to seek out and preserve wartime correspondence before these letters are lost or damaged. Its mission is to honor and remember America's veterans through their own words. Future generations will better understand both the true nature of warfare and the sacrifices made by those who served this nation.

Sunday, for Veterans Day, PBS will air a documentary based on the book with actors Edward Norton, Joan Allen and Kevin Spacey among those reading.

Info from Shagmail's trivia publication. The letters featured on the site are remarkable - some were written right before the soldiers perished, others lived. Some correspondents became well known, such as Clara Barton who founded the Red Cross.

http://home.iae.nl/users/robr/poppies.html - John McCrae's "In Flanders Fields" remains one of the most memorable war poems ever written. It is a lasting legacy of the terrible battle in the Ypres salient in the spring of 1915. Why poppies? Very interesting answer, page includes link to http://www.geocities.com/SoHo/Gallery/8054/index.html - Heritage of the Great War is dedicated to the aftermath and consequences of World War One.

http://www.ojc.org/adopt/index.html - Operation Just Cause - Adopt a POW/MIA Now! - includes simple form, "... we will email you with the name, history and date of loss for a specific POW/MIA so you can ask your elected representatives in Washington some specific questions." (Questions that demand "more than the expedient but lame, stock response.")

Thanks to Elaine, Lady in the Bronx, for these links from her Veterans Day page: http://www.ladybronx.com/Veteran.html - some may be dupes found elsewhere listed here

http://www.opsos.org/ - SOS - Support Our Soldiers - normal mail support program has been suspended, site is under reconstruction to offer additional alternative support options, existing program links are working

http://www.opsos.org/signatures/index.shtml - "Well wishers may post their names and show love for the victims of September 11, 2001, as well as those brave people who are on the search and rescue teams. Let's not forget our leaders who are making hard decisions for our nations and our soldiers who will be backing up those choices." I like this idea better than the e-lists circulating

Golden Corral restaurants across the country are going to be offering a free meal to veterans/active duty members Monday, Nov. 12th, from 5-9 pm. Arrrgh, slapping self, can't remember now who checked on this: "Some of the restaurants just said to ask for the free meal, others said you just need to show your ID card. It might be a good idea to show up later in the evening, especially if you live in a military town. Might be busy earlier."

Ground Zero America
Since September 11, the phrase "ground zero" has become part of the American vernacular, representing two extremes: the best and the worst of humanity. The History Channel's special presentation Ground Zero America, anchored by Roger Mudd, provides a historical record of the past and a revealing perspective on the present. Shows air November 13 through 16 at 9:00 p.m. ET/PT (8 p.m. CT).

Member mail
I've received seven emails from my pen pal in the Navy, he has even sent me a picture of him on the ship. He loves the emails, he said they make his day. His eyes are puffy from so many hours. He is on the USS Vinson and he said he is sending me a hat from his ship as soon as he can. Thank you for giving such a wonderful pen pal, emailing him makes my day a happier one.

I have heard from one of the any soldiers I have written to. Here is what he wrote on the back of his envelope:Thank you for giving us US Marines a reason for doing our job better and making us give 110% instead of 100%, We thank you & your Family for Caring.

Just wanted you to know I mailed my boxes of goodies for my soldiers today. When I went to the post office they opened the boxes and went through each one of them, which I did not have a problem with. But they did say from now on I would have to bring in the boxes unopened for them to inspect before I could mail them. And I shouldn't pack any food items that have any powdered sugar on them. They would be removed and tested. I thought this was pretty good security tactics and I did not mind at all that they looked. But I thought you might want to pass this on to your readers in your next newsletter. I am assuming of course that this will be procedure at all the post offices. Thanks again and keep up the good work that you do.

Phelps and her volunteers are to be congratulated for hanging in through an assortment of unexpected complications and misunderstandings. The system, as any new effort, is not perfect. You may want to read a few newsletters before jumping in to ask for a soldier assignment.

Pennsylvania is the only state which recognizes Flag Day as a National Holiday.

The American flag is folded into a triangular shape to symbolize the shape of the cocked hats worn by soldiers of the American Revolution.

The world's largest flag is an American flag, as deemed by "The Guinness Book of World Records." It is 505 feet by 255 feet and weighs 3,700 pounds and takes at least 700 people to raise it. http://www.superflag.com/doc/guinness.htm

This candle was lit on the 11th of September 2001. Feel free to link, copy and pass it around.

While searching for an earlier post of mine - for N, who asked me to do so in a private post - I couldn't help but read some of the articles here against the US's involvement in Afghanistan. I'm not shocked by any of it. History is a vicious cycle. It repeats itself time and time again. For instance, we experienced similar rantings during the Vietnam war (excuse me ... conflict). The US's involvement there is wrong. We are killing innocent people, and we have no business butting our noses into other people's affairs. We should talk out our differences instead of fighting. Peace out blood ... Nice sentiment; but when we finally did leave, where were these same people when Po murdered millions in Phenom Phen? [not to mention the thousands killed after the takeover in South Vietnam]

Well thought-out protest is as rare as a kickboxing Quaker. There are millions of Americans who simply don't like their country. In times of trouble, these people can be counted on to take a point of view counter to the establishment, but often their protest has little to do with any one issue.

Yet the 90 percent, or so, Americans who favor military action, are clear as to why we must do so. According to the Constitution of the USA, the mandate of the federal government is to "insure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, [and] promote the general welfare …" This is one of the main reasons why we have a federal government - to
protect us from foreign bad guys. Nowhere in the Constitution is a world court mentioned or any kind of coalition.

Thousands of innocent people died right here in America. For what, because we support Israel? We happen to be standing on "holy ground?" Maybe I should go around and stick ash cans (1/8 sticks of dynamite) in my neighbors pumpkins and blow 'em up - after all, some of them (neighbors) supported organizations that I'm totally against and their dogs poop on my front yard.

These religious zealots are prejudiced against the USA. They will not rest until we are eradicated from the earth (their own words). Their take on Islam must be spread throughout the world or else there will be no peace. Granted, I'm not happy that we are not holding Israel to past agreements they have made (trust I have written to my congresspeople about this) but just because we do support them, does not mean our citizens, and those from other countries, should be slaughtered. And that is exactly what is happening here - terroristic plots cunningly planned in an effort to get us to change. So much for talking ...

The gist of my prior post was my want for knowing one thing: "I hear you have a beef against America, but give your, "give peace a chance" message equal time across the board. I wanted to hear thoughts and feelings about other injustices. I wanted to know if you speak just as loud about the prejudices in your very own backyard (I used Australia's crimes against the Aborigine culture as an example). My other point reflected back to WWII when the Japanese invaded Malaysia. The Australian government pulled back thousands of troops to go there and the US helped fight back the invasion (out of convenience, I guess war is OK if the threat is in your own back yard). This may not be exactly worded the same way, but it was my reply to N. And to be quite honest about it, I wish not to know now (I think I was just trying to be a wise guy).

I don't get offended when some (even many) are against what I believe in. I'm the kinda guy who gives equal time to all issues. I'm not sure if the First Amendment applies (not everyone here is American) but surely, each man, woman and child can voice their opinion. All I ask is that you "respect" mine as well as others. Consider that prejudice is found everywhere. Both sides of the coin reveals similar intolerances for other viewpoints. You can have debate minus name - calling (shrub indeed) or profiling. Why lower yourself and your voiced opinion in such a manner?

If we all got what we justly deserved (judgement of our actions) can any one of us, based on our past, honestly say we'd be alive and well? Best regards, Anthony Razmanus "Giving equal time to the issues."

Later, The United States is more than the total sum of its people. Pretty simple logic to me. We feel raped even when our personal loved ones are not caught in harm's way. But even more than that, the attack in New York was not against those who happen to be in a building. It was the WTC ... a specific, and significant building that represented mutual respect and team building between nations. The attack was against all people, not only in the US, but all people's in the free world.

I sense a lot of anger each time you respond, and for the life of me I cannot understand this level of passion in an arena of just words. I am charmed by your spirit, however, and trust that you'll find peace with the history being written as we sit and toss darts at each other. Surely, to me, it is pointless. Why? Because in a free world, the majority writes the script. The minority just talks loudly. In time, maybe you'll accept what is happening (remember, accepting something does not make you an accomplice or in agreement).

I have no less of a conscience than you do. And the same goes for many of the other people who have spent time writing on their feelings.

Partial from another list member, I heard the other night the opposite of love is not hate but indifference. Better to have opposing thoughts then to not be able to be bothered or ask yourself tough questions at all. I also think if we did not defend
ourselves the attacks would continue.

Whew, 'bout time for a lighten up ... News from Possum Waller

Woof Woof, yep that’s what it says ... seems ol' Gaither just has that view on most things he runs into. I was talking to him the other day at the Possum Waller General Store and I heard him mutter "woof woof." I was a bit curious since I had heard this before ... so I said, "Gaither, what ya mean by that?" His response was that since he adopted the dog philosophy life was a lot easier ... I said "OK," still a bit perplexed.

Gaither went on to explain that dogs were pretty simple, they just ate, slept and chased other dogs, so anytime something bothered him he just went "woof woof" ... just to remind him that most stuff wasn’t worth bothering with and not to let it get him down.

I (that's JW Bubba) said, "I think you're right Gaither," ... so anyway .... woof woof y'all.

He who guards his mouth and his tongue keeps himself from calamity. Don't remember who said that - mighta been JW Confucius :~)

And a few words from Texfucius: You can put your boots in the oven, but that doesn't make them biscuits. (You can say whatever you want about something, but that doesn't change what it is.)

Dang, lost the credit on this too - what I need is about a 4 x 6 screen so I could lay all this stuff out like a regular newspaper pasteboard

Set aside ten minutes a day to do all your worrying. If you catch yourself worrying at another time, just tell yourself to wait until the designated time. Try this once or twice, and your worry period will soon become a laugh session as you realize how ridiculous it is to worry.

Help put an end to domestic violence

Serve as an advocate for victims. This may involve crisis intervention, shelter intakes, liaison with other agencies, emotional support, information, referral and follow-up. Most agencies provide a training program for volunteers.

Assist individuals during the court process and in filing restraining orders.

Serve as an office volunteer. Assist with answering phones, running errands, bulk mailings, assembling newsletters, writing thank-you notes, data compilations, planning/working fundraising and community awareness events.

Serve as a children's advocate. Most agencies have a children's program to address the needs of children from violent homes. Areas that are often addressed are feelings of fear, guilt, anger, distrust and low self-esteem. Volunteers are also needed to plan fun activities with the children.

Volunteers are needed to transport women to court, support groups and appointments.

Volunteers are needed to assist with specialized programs in the community through the schools, church groups and civic organizations. Help Stop Family Violence Website: http://www.stopfamilyviolence.org/ - includes links to others

Burdens are a part of life. Fortunately, so are shoulders. Under extreme circumstances, we tap into unimaginable resources and we begin to realize just how strong our shoulders are. Our strength becomes our pride. Eventually, however, burdens can weigh us down. Because we can handle it, we sometimes take on more than our share. Being strong is certainly one of women's greatest attributes, but we must choose our burdens carefully.

Today, know that "strength" does not mean "I have to do it all by myself." There is also strength in asking for help and in knowing our own limits.

Personal stories on the effects of domestic violence: http://endabuse.org/stories/
Domestic violence, child abuse and youth violence are inextricably connected. Our nation urgently needs strategies and programs that will prevent and address all. Take Action Against Domestic Violence email list: http://endabuse.org/action/emaillist/

Cleaning Out Closets?

If you plan to get rid of clothes, sheets, towels, please consider donating to your local Battered Women's Shelter. These women and children often have left without possessions. They really could use anything you give. Copyright 2001 Heloise, Inc.

"It is one of the most beautiful compensations of this life that no man can sincerely try to help another without helping himself." - Ralph Waldo Emerson

I'm beginning to lose faith in some of the news reports, which I tend to get from CNN.com or ABC either online or via TV. It's not the journalists, it's the gummint spokesmen. I do wish they'd just stop spinning. Sometimes they go to great lengths to make the situation sound all hunky-dory when it isn't, and then sometimes they try to make it sound more dire and scary than it is, but either way, they can't seem to break themselves of the habit of spinning the news.

It's really kind of funny when one branch of government is handing out the "Looks like the Taliban will topple any day now!" and the other branch is saying, "Oh well, we could be over there banging away for years."

As to the scary things and the warnings, it's all just madness. Vague warnings can't do anybody any good except the terrorists, and whether or not our intelligence services are being played is a whole 'nother question. It doesn't take a genius to leak what you want over a phone line that you know is tapped or an email that you know is being audited.

I just want to issue a sign to hang up in every office in Washington, DC, saying "Stop spinning, dammit!" I just want to know what's going on; not cheery, not dreary, just the news.

The bunk goes on ...
Below is in reference to part of the recent and ongoing "Love it or leave it" piece ... Berkeley, California bans US Flags from being displayed on city fire trucks because they didn't want to offend anyone in the community.

Office of the City Manager, October 2, 2001 Thank you for your e-mail expressing your thoughts on flying the American flag on Berkeley fire trucks. I’d like to begin by assuring you that Berkeley fire trucks are all flying the American flag. Our Fire Chief did indeed give the order to replace parade flags on city trucks with more appropriate sized and safely mounted American flags. This decision was made to ensure the safety of our first responders in light of planned protests on the University of California Campus. Unfortunately, media reports characterized the operational decision as a “ban on flying American flags” on city fire trucks. I deeply regret any hurt or any negative reaction this may have caused you and all Americans. Berkeley, like all Americans, is grieving the terrible loss our nation suffered as a result of the terrible events of September 11. As public servants we are also mourning the loss of our many brothers and sisters in the fire service, police service and the many other courageous first responders that risked their lives in order to save others. I hope that this email helps to heal any wounds that may have opened as a result of the terrible and unfortunate miscommunication about flying the American flag in Berkeley. I also would like to extend to you my heartfelt appreciation for taking the time to write to me and express your strong concern. I am comforted by your passion for our community, our nation, and for the flag that represents us all. Sincerely, Weldon Rucker City Manager

http://www.snopes.com/rumors/egghead.htm - This one debunks the Vietnam vets standing up to protestors in a restaurant which I used on a previous page. Still say I wish it had happened, and there's no reason why anyone can't so the same.

http://www.snopes.com/quotes/carlin.htm - "I'm a Bad American" - I used one version at least a year on my Skewed Views humor page, disclaimed to a point because some did sound like Carlin and other parts didn't. Just now added a disclaimer to Skewed page so there'd be no misunderstanding about what still qualifies as humor or valid, no matter when a piece was written. http://www.therealmartha.com/Skewed_Views/index.htm - presented by The UnBlonde Sheep, poking holes while tending to the general shearing of BS

And then there's the joke? about women going outside naked to offend terrorists that was plain stupid. Nonetheless, someone took serious offense, enough to complain to one 'zine after it ran.

This one (addressed to same 'zine) is kind of like reading a pinball game ... 'nuff said ... (left the caps, fixed the typos)

The last rant was full of holes - it includes misrepresentation of news stories, misinterpretation of actions taken, misstated historical facts, AND it wasn't a reader's rant but an email rant that's been going around.

The actions taken regarding banners and flags and stuff weren't taken by individuals, nor were they initiated by the "whining or complaining" of foreign individuals, but by institutions. The problem was NOT with the word "God," but with the word "American!" A more appropriate prayer might be to bless the WHOLE WORLD!

The reason for eliminating red, white and blue lapel ribbons for TV newspeople was not due to those who wanted TO wear them, but an attempt to prevent misunderstanding due to those who, for whatever reason, chose NOT to wear them--the fear was that SOME viewers would see that as a negative statement and the station couldn't require everyone TO wear them because we all have the right NOT to!

Berkeley's Fire Department caused flag decals to be removed because they weren't included in the City's rules for proper truck equipment AND because they feared they would be stolen from the trucks and citizens might endanger themselves while trying to steal them - it wasn't political or religious at all!

Our country was founded on belief in GOD - NOT on Christianity. In fact, the founders were "Transcendentalists" hence the membership of many in the Freemason's resulting in the pyramid and "all seeing eye" symbols on our currency.

Foreign nationals were NOT the ones doing the complaining - it was the school and city administrators who were merely trying to follow the guidelines set forth by their own "higher authorities" - upper management and boards of directors!

"Patriotism" is pride in what our country stands for and that is inclusion - not exclusion. If we are patriotic, we are sensitive to anything that would make ANYONE feel EXcluded.

The rants writers seem to forget that it was immigrants that fought and died right beside us in all of our previous wars and that our founding fathers all came from "across the waters" and we've remained a sovereign nation! Immigration does nothing to "dilute" our sovereignty!

An important thing to remember is that America is about freedom of religion - whatever that might mean to individuals - and it is not exclusively about Christianity. Our mottoes and guiding principles are about God - not NECESSARILY about Jesus, but including Jesus with Buddha, Mohammed, Confucius (thanks Chaz!) and Krishna. Our Pledge of Allegiance didn't include the words "under God" until the fifties. Our National Anthem doesn't make reference to God. We have a history of fighting for freedom FROM rants like the attached! Unless the writers are Native Americans, they issued the invitation to leave to their own selves!

And one more ... This rant from Leslie & Lee needs to be sent out to everyone in America. It is exactly what needs to be said. They are completely right about these "politically correct" morons who have to look around to see what's "in" and jump on that bandwagon regardless of common sense. Perhaps our new motto should be "Patriotism - get it or get out!"

Now don't you wish you subscribed to all these publications? I guess I am, as one very good friend noted, like a car wreck or as TheBub said, a tornado. Never know when the eye will be passing through.

"Men never do evil so completely and cheerfully as when they do it from religious conviction." - Blaise Pascal

We lost almost seven thousand people in the Trade Towers and Pentagon and we’re worrying about offending somebody? We have 7-month-old babies infected with Anthrax and we’re afraid we’ll hurt someone’s feelings? Brave Americans forced a plane down in a field in Pennsylvania and we’re worried about ruffling someone’s feathers? We’re sending our sons and daughters off to fight and perhaps die in a war we had nothing to do with starting and we’re concerned about insulting somebody? I felt to give into this political correctness would be to turn my back on the people who lost their lives on 9 -11 and on the brave men and women who defend this country. The title of the song is “This Ain’t No Rag It’s A Flag,” and I don’t apologize for a word in I’ll let you all decide for yourselves.

What's to decide? That adds up to two celebs with cajones intact. Here's hoping the ones who seem to have misplaced theirs recently find them soon.

In a message dated 10/29/01 11:09:22 AM Central Standard Time, mailer@federalist.com writes:

"Liberals are up to their old tricks again. Twenty years of treason hasn't slowed them down. Earlier prescient advice from the anti-American crowd has included: dismantling government intelligence agencies 'brick by brick'; toppling the Shah of Iran and giving Islamic fundamentalism its first real foothold in the Mideast; turning the US armed forces into a feminist consciousness-raising session; demanding continued dependence on Arab oil in order to preserve mud flats in Alaska; indignantly opposing a missile defense shield; promoting endless due process rights for aliens who are illegal, diseased or criminal; disarming the public; and purging the nation of insidious references to God. Most people would be embarrassed at a track record like that, especially after Sept. 11. But instead of hanging their heads in shame, liberals have boldly returned to their typical hysteria and defeatism." - Ann Counter

"When principles that run against your deepest convictions begin to win the day, then battle is your calling, and peace has become sin; you must, at the price of dearest peace, lay your convictions bare before friend and enemy, with all the fire of your faith." - Abraham Kuyper

"If Sept. 11 doesn't cause us to finally get serious about plugging our porous borders, nothing will. Roughly 40 percent of all illegal immigrants enter on visas, then stay on illegally after their visas expire. The Immigration and Naturalization Service does little to track visa holders once they're here. The status quo has powerful patrons - businesses who pay immigrants wages Americans won't accept, colleges desperate for students, politicians who rely on the ethnic communities for votes. But immigration policy is a national concern. And Middle Eastern demolition crews aren't the only security threat. Millions who come here illegally each year pose a different challenge. Many are inassimilable and constitute a growing alien bloc that could fragment the nation." - Don Feder

"It happens every time ideologues turn violent. A great mystification descends. Who could have done this? What could they have hoped to accomplish? What were their reasons? It is as if the crazed need reasons for what they do. They need only a wild belief, and a determination to destroy any competing belief, any alternate reality, any other way of life. Whether that way of life is represented by gleaming modern skyscrapers in the West or ancient Buddhas from the East, both must be reduced to rubble. For they represent the Other, the Great Satan, the Infidel, and must be obliterated by the faithful.

Terrorism comes from terrorists. It comes from True Believers who are so unhappy with reality they think they can ignore it, or better yet destroy it. Their nostrums and doctrines may differ in content from unruly time to unruly time, but not in violent spirit. Their demands are a pretext for their violence, not an explanation of it." - Paul Greenberg

"They that can give up essential liberty to obtain a little temporary safety deserve neither liberty nor safety." - Benjamin Franklin

"If you love wealth better than liberty, the tranquillity of servitude better than the animating contest of freedom, go home from us in peace. We ask not your counsels or arms [and] may posterity forget that ye were our countrymen." - Samuel Adams

http://www.eagles.org/ - American Eagle Foundation, a not-for-profit organization of concerned citizens and professionals founded in 1985 to develop and conduct bald eagle and environmental recovery programs in the United States and to assist private, state and federal projects that do the same.

I'm the little boy who gives up his favorite teddy bear so a stranger may be comforted.
I'm the single mother who has been trying to teach her child to sleep in their own bed, who holds them tight long into the night, thanking God it wasn't her child who died.
I'm the old man, angry and resentful that his military doesn't want him because of his age.
I'm the teenaged girl who spends hours cutting ribbons for others to wear as a symbol of remembrance.
I'm the young man who doesn't understand why his father was running up the stairs as the building fell, trying to save just one more person, instead of saving himself.
I'm the old woman who will never see her grandchild again.
I'm the little girl who can't understand when someone screams hateful things at her because of where her family is from.
I'm the police officer, trying to keep idiotic reporters safe when his wife is still among the missing.
I'm the firefighter who called in sick that day, only to discover that someone else died in my place.
I'm the man who survived the falling building only to learn that his sister and baby niece were in the plane.
I'm the secretary, angered by the seemingly callous response of those around her.
I'm a spelunker, who is climbing down into the remains of a building hoping to find someone still alive.
I'm the dog handler, searching for bodies, who has to comfort my animal when only death remains.
I'm the woman who stands in line for five hours to give blood, hoping to help strangers in need.
I'm the man who gets up and goes to work every day, in spite of the tragedy, because I still have a family to feed.
I'm the first passenger to get back on a plane even though I'm terrified because I know somebody has to be first.
Who am I?
I'm nobody special, I'm just an American.
Author unknown

The original mail program was put on hold due to anthrax mess. I'd say this proves you can't keep an angel down for long :)

From a collection sent by JoAnne. This one shook me almost more than any of the now-so-familiar images of destruction. Bear in mind, landing gear was not down on impact, making it an even more incredible portrait of horror.

Thanks Jocie for finding this graphic. I'm still looking for a unique design to recognize home support. The idea is something along the lines of "Rosie the Riveter" against the flag background used on previous page. Rosie "writerers" and graphic artists are every bit as important to overall spirit today as the Rosies who went to work in factories during World War II.

A man who uses a great many words to express his meaning is like a bad marksman who, instead of aiming a single stone at an object, takes up a handful and throws in hopes he may hit. - Samuel Johnson, lexicographer (1709-1784)

If you're a bear, you get to hibernate. You do nothing but sleep for six months.
I could deal with that.

Before you hibernate, you're supposed to eat yourself stupid.
I could deal with that, too.

If you're a mama bear, everyone knows you mean business. You swat anyone who bothers your cubs. If your cubs get out of line, you swat them too.
I could deal with that.

If you're a bear, your mate EXPECTS you to wake up growling. He EXPECTS that you will have hairy legs and excess body fat.
I wanna be a bear.

Basting: OK, but only if using a large spoon. Basting tools, such as brushes and bulb basters, could actually be sources of bacteria contamination if dipped into uncooked or undercooked poultry pan juices, then allowed to sit at room temperature and used later.

My two cents: The above is quite true, however, the old bulb baster is a vital part of the show as far I'm concerned - and I usually manage it every 15 minutes or so - so far, so good. A big black enamel roaster is quite an effective prop too. Another subliminal message as to how long you've been doing this sort of thing. Gawd, people are easy! Truth told, they're all happy not to be the one sweatin' the spotlight.

Fun Turkey Facts!

91 percent of Americans eat turkey on Thanksgiving Day.

Of the 300 million turkeys raised annually, 45 million are consumed at Thanksgiving.

Of the 300 million turkeys raised for consumption each year, one is sent to the White House for clemency. Each year, the President "pardons" the live turkey, which is sent to a farm to live out the rest of its days.

The first meal eaten on the moon by astronauts Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin was roasted turkey and all the trimmings.

Rather than coming up with a list of to-dos and to-gets on your own, take a look at Party411.com's Party Planning Checklist www.party411.com/partyplan.html. This chart will help get you started on your way to party nirvana.

As you might expect, the party maven herself, Martha Stewart, offers a wealth of merrymaking ideas. Use the search phrase "plan party" at www.MarthaStewart.com and you'll get more than a dozen results including a New Year's Eve Party menu that includes Beef and Asparagus Negamaki and for dessert, Creamy Rice Pudding with Macadamia Nut Topping. I know what you're thinking. Don't worry, there are full color pictures of what the recipes are supposed to look like when you're done.

Back down here on Earth, you are probably still struggling with what size turkey you need to buy. Butterball, www.butterball.com, offers an online calculator. Just input who's coming to dinner, whether you want leftovers and they do the math.

For all things turkey, though, the National Turkey Federation, www.turkeyfed.org/consumer/thanks.html, is the ultimate stop. Aside from great tips on what to look for in a holiday bird, how to prepare and carve it, there are guest chef appearances and a database of more than 500 different turkey recipes (covering before, during and after Thanksgiving).

If you'd like to add a twist to your turkey dinner, check out the Recipe Source, www.recipesource.com. Here you'll find SOAR, the Searchable Online Archive of Recipes, with time-honored or unusual ideas for full meals and course-by-course choices. How about Eggnoggin Plus, Cranberry-Cream Cheese Frosties or Stuffed Thanksgiving Pumpkins? There are also ethnic cuisines categorized by world region.

For extra panache in your preparations, take a look at Epicurious' recipes, www.epicurious.com. This site offers some tantalizing choices like Gratin of Butternut Squash, after-Thanksgiving Turkey Enchiladas or Caribbean Christmas Pudding with Brandy Butter.

The most important part of any holiday gathering is your guests. With the wide assortment of pre-printed stationery available at any office supply store and on the Internet, there's little need for going to the expense of custom-printed invitations. Simply use this paper in your color inkjet or laser printer. Invitations First, www.invitationsfirst.com, and Holiday Cards, www.holiday-cards.com, offer a vast assortment of pre-printed stock.

If you prefer to go completely digital (although this isn't recommended by etiquette experts), there are numerous options for sending electronic invites. Blue Mountain, www.bluemountain.com, lets you send free online party invitations as well as holiday greeting cards for every celebration imaginable.

Speaking of etiquette, many people wonder when to send a thank-you note or whether to bring a bottle of wine or fruitcake to a gathering. eHows' Etiquette page, www.ehow.com/center/index.jsp?indexID=1048, helps set the record straight, from what to wear to how to leave a party graciously.

Thanks to the Internet, you don't have to sit on the phone giving each person directions any more or be late because you got lost. MapQuest, www.mapquest.com, is the granddaddy of online map services, offering street maps, detailed driving instructions and more. There are other mapping choices as well, such as http://maps.yahoo.com, http://maps.excite.com/driving and http://maps.lycos.com. Using any of them is as simple as typing where you are located and where you want to go.

With all the food and drink abound this time of year, it's easy to pack on some extra pounds. Drop by iVillage's Health Calculators, www.ivillage.com/diet/tools/healthcalc, to learn about your daily requirements, target heart rate, and amount of calories burned per minute during various daily activities.

Keep foods either hot or cold. The bacteria that cause spoilage and food poisoning grow best when food is luke warm. Be especially careful with raw poultry, seafood and foods with a base of eggs, such as mayonnaise or egg salad, or bread, like stuffings or puddings. Those two warnings make me crazy every year.

Mayo, due to the high acid content, is supposedly a wonderful preservative. That would be the news flash this year. Use common sense.

Now, pat attention carefully here ... if you don't shovel the stuffing into the bird in the first place, you won't have to have to shovel it out - aha! Bake in a dish by itself. No worry about that one little bit left hangin' in there to contaminate the carcass (which will get stripped when Bubba is good and ready).

Serve party food in small portions - stash the rest and refresh as needed. A new bowl of dip is far more appetizing than one that looks like an army tramped through.

Keep shrimp, lobster, oysters and such in the refrigerator on ice. Ideally, put the seafood on top of the ice, and the ice in a colander or other bowl with holes in it so that when the ice melts it can drain into another container.

When you want to refrigerate a hot dish, first leave it for a bit in a cool spot with the lid ajar so that it can cool down before you put it in the refrigerator. If you put a hot dish in before it cools, it will warm up the refrigerator needlessly.

Sue, the crock-pot recipe lady made up this little cutie for me after she coined "Stewaren't"

Some say I'm very fussy.
They don't know me, so well.
Each day, the start and finish end
With 'list' and hopes that swell.
And everything takes longer;
Routine jobs are never 'done'.
Every time I turn around
Nine things replaced the ONE.
Too bad. With a name like Martha, you'd think it'd be more FUN! 8O~

Sue said OK when I asked if she minded changing the last line to: Tough noogies, I'm The Real Martha, not that other one.

And one for your 'Real' name ....

My goodness
Aren't we formal!
Relax and loosen up!
Take a page, like one of mine ..
Have some fun
And ... got a pup?

Just let your tension
Ooze away.
No need to make it heavy.
Every page is full of fun
So sit, surf and be happy! ;o)

Found an answer to my Dane question on last page, "A charming (if weighty) Great Dane habit is the breed's tendency to believe they make good lap dogs. "Sitting in laps is a big Great Dane thing," said Great Dane owner Ginnie Saunders of Columbia, S.C. "They sit in your lap on the couch but put their front feet on the floor. They'll sit like that for hours if you let them!"

When Saunders' mother first met her daughter's Great Dane, Merlin, the Dane eyed her for a moment, turned around, slyly maneuvered the petite and somewhat disconcerted woman with his hindquarters straight to the couch, then sat on her.

"My favorite thing is their gentle personality and their view of the world," Saunders said. "It's hard to explain, but it's all the little they do that make them Great Danes. They do this 'woo-woo' thing where they talk to you. And that leaning thing - they'll slowly start leaning into you as you are having a conversation with someone, and they'll lean and lean until you can barely stand up." (My Jennifer did that too) from K9WebWorld@aol.com

I am proud to be an American. We have so many freedoms that others in the world cannot begin to even dream of having in their life. Freedom of speech, religion, the press and oh so many others. The reason we have these many freedoms today is because of our military personnel. They protect our country and our rights. We are free today because of the many sacrifices of our military men and women and their families. I wanted to have this special edition as a tribute to one and all; to let them know we are all praying for them. Theirs is not an easy task for them - far from home, family and loved ones. When you hit your knees each day please say a special prayer for not only the military men and women but also their families.

After this special edition I will continue to run military requests as a part of the regular Prayer Requests Newsletter.When you send in your request please make a note that it is for a military member.

OK, winding down now. Had to stash a bunch of stuff - recipes, funnies, tips ... for next time to get this out today. Stay tuned, check back in a few days at central update page: http://www.therealmartha.com/WAR/index.htm

Don't let that stop you from sending material though! One of these days, I will get caught up, yea right, that sounds familiar.

Please be sure to clearly define subject line and please do not send anything as a download - too risky, no matter where it originated. If you can't take the time to copy and paste into a new mail, somebody else will. Also please do not add my name to any group mail unless you know how to use blind copies. Nobody appreciates the junk that generates from down the road forwards. Due the amount of junk getting worse everyday, if I don't recognize your name and/or the subject line is unclear, I have to delete. Thanks for understanding. I couldn't do any of this without reader support.

GRRRRR, got a site closed - exceeded access BS message going back to a Geocities page. In a backwards way, that's good, means a lot of hits. Thousands of pages sitting there doing nothing ... the freebie servers really need to lighten up - do they not understand that's more people exposed to their ad? http://www.geocities.com/heartsforhosanna/helloamerica.html

Thanks, you're right, I'm ticked. Brilliant that last line: If universities get to the point where they have to ask for security checks, they should close up shop. Gawd, no wonder so many students behave like morons - great role models.

https://www.keepandbeararms.com/afa/about.htm - Armed Females of America - "Mothers of Freedom don't cater to political correctness; they seek it out - for eradication. And stomp on the ashes. There is a reason Lady Liberty is a woman."

http://www.saf.org/ - Second Amendment Foundation - "A well-regulated Militia being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms shall not be infringed." - Second Amendment to the US Constitution