One Patriot Acts

[Agent 0659]

I rarely visit this forum, and I'm not real interested in a political debate, but this was in my email from someone today and this seemed a good place to post it.

Remember, opinions expressed in this post are not necessarily the opinions of the poster involved.



WOULDN'T IT BE GREAT TO TURN ON THE TV AND HEAR ANY U.S. PRESIDENT,
DEMOCRAT OR REPUBLICAN GIVE THE FOLLOWING SPEECH?

My Fellow Americans: As you all know, the defeat of Iraq regime has been
completed.

Since congress does not want to spend any more money on this war, our
mission in Iraq is complete.

This morning I gave the order for a complete removal of all American
forces from Iraq . This action will be complete within 30 days. It is
now to begin the reckoning.

Before me, I have two lists. One list contains the names of countries
which have stood by our side during the Iraq conflict. This list is
short.
The United Kingdom , Spain , Bulgaria , Australia , and Poland are some
of the countries listed there.

The other list contains everyone not on the first list. Most of the
world's nations are on that list. My press secretary will be
distributing copies of both lists later this evening.

Let me start by saying that effective immediately, foreign aid to those
nations on List 2 ceases immediately and indefinitely. The money saved
during the first year alone will pretty much pay for the costs of the
Iraqi war.


The American people are no longer going to pour money into third world
Hell-holes and watch those government leaders grow fat on corruption.

Need help with a famine? Wrestling with an epidemic? Call
France .

In the future, together with Congress, I will work to redirect this
money toward solving the vexing social problems we still have at home.
On that note, a word to terrorist organizations. Screw with us and we
will hunt you down and eliminate you and all your friends from the face
of the earth.

Thirsting for a gutsy country to terrorize? Try France , or maybe China
.

I am ordering the immediate severing of diplomatic relations with France
, Germany , and Russia . Thanks for all your help, comrades. We are
retiring from NATO as well. Bon chance, mes amis.

I have instructed the Mayor of New York City to begin towing the many UN
diplomatic vehicles located in Manhattan with more than two unpaid
parking tickets to sites where those vehicles will be stripped, shredded
and crushed. I don't care about whatever treaty pertains to this. You
creeps have tens of thousands of unpaid tickets. Pay those tickets tom
orrow or watch your precious Benzes, Beamers and limos be turned over to
some of the finest chop shops in the world. I love New York!!

A special note to our neighbors. Canada is on List 2 Since we are likely
to be seeing a lot more of each other, you folks might want to try not
pissing us off for a change.

Mexico is also on List 2. President Fox and his entire corrupt
government really need an attitude adjustment. I will have a couple
extra tank and infantry divisions sitting around. Guess where I am going
to put em ?
Yep, border security. So start doing something with your oil.

Oh, by the way, the United States is abrogating the NAFTA treaty
starting now.

We are tired of the one-way highway. Immediately, we'll be drilling for
oil in Alaska - which will take care of this country's oil needs for
decades to come. If you're an environmentalist who opposes this
decision, I refer you to List 2 above: pick a country and move there .
They care.

It is time for America to focus on its own welfare and its own citizens.
Some will accuse us of isolationism. I answer them by saying, "darn
tootin."

Nearly a century of trying to help folks live a decent life around the
world has only earned us the undying enmity of just about everyone on
the planet. It is time to eliminate hunger in America . It is time to
eliminate homelessness in America . It is time to eliminate World Cup
Soccer from America .

To the nations on List 1, a final thought. Thanks guys. We owe you and
we won't forget.
To the nations on List 2, a final thought: You might want to learn to
speak Arabic. God bless America .
Thank you and good night.
"If you can read this, thank a teacher. If you are reading it in
English, thank a soldier!!!".

 

[Happy Hippo]

I think everyone should read Romans 1:27

:scared :scared

I hope you don't need to ask for any forgiveness...

 

[Terryray]

Iraq ambassador to US had some good points

Iraq ambassador to US had some good points

tho I'm getting less sympathetic to the argument that to cut and run would hurt US credibility---it may very well enhance it, as a early withdrawl from Vietnam woulda been much less damaging than staying the course. Admitting mistakes and correcting them most folks see as a sign of strength. Anyway, hard to damage credibility of the only superpower left in the world....




A Call to Support Democracy

By Samir Sumaida'ie
Monday, August 21, 2006--Washington Post


As the debate on Iraq rages on, we hear more and more voices that call for throwing in the towel and leaving the mess to Iraqis to sort out. A new and unexpected proponent of this argument is Thomas Friedman of the New York Times, who said in a recent column that it's time for "Plan B." Only a few months before, he was arguing that it would be time for the United States to pack up and go only "when we don't see Iraqis taking the risk to build a progressive Iraq." Now, under the weight of bad news from Baghdad, he seems ready to abandon those very same brave men and women fighting valiantly to establish peace and justice in Iraq. I am an admirer of Friedman, who is generally thoughtful, well informed and supportive, but in this case he and many like him have gone dangerously off-track.

The controversy over the decision by the United States to remove the Saddam Hussein regime should not prevent an honest assessment of the situation of Iraq today. That the post-Hussein period was not well managed is now widely acknowledged. But we are where we are, and there is a future for all our children to secure. Plan B, advocated by Friedman and others, is to abandon the region to religious fanatics and Baathist terrorists. It is nothing but a declaration of defeat dressed up to look like a vision for the future.

Our enemies' strategy has never changed: creating mayhem and making Iraq ungovernable, thereby driving the Americans and their allies out, and installing a Saddam Hussein look-alike to "make peace." In pursuing this strategy, they have forged many alliances and changed course and tactics many times.

Just as they kept to their strategy and adapted, we should do the same. In this context, "staying the course" should mean being ready to adapt and learn while also standing firm for democracy and for a new vision for the country and the region. If we abandon our effort, our enemies win by default.

Those in the new government and leaders of civil society in Iraq are putting their lives on the line every day to advance a democratic society. And it is this that our enemies are most afraid of -- not U.S. forces but a real democracy in the Middle East that would showcase human rights, women in politics and the rule of law. And they fear that this "worst-case scenario" could prove to be contagious.

What has made the past three years hugely more difficult and complicated is the fact that we all underestimated the determination of our opponents and some of our neighbors to undermine this new project. In the context of a global confrontation, this has pitched our fledgling democracy onto the front line of a monumental struggle. It is these outside forces, allied with Saddamists, other terrorists and regular criminals, that threaten to overwhelm us.

To argue that American withdrawal from Iraq would create a "huge problem for Iran" is disingenuous. Iran is fairly secure within its borders. Any problems in Iraq will be for Iraqis to suffer. If there is a collapse and a civil war in Iraq, it is Iran's proxies who will do the fighting, and when the dust settles these proxies will most likely end up with the oil-rich southern region of Iraq -- a significant strategic gain for Iran.

There would also be the psychological impact of the perceived defeat for America. That would encourage all the enemies of the United States -- and they are many -- to be bolder and readier to challenge its interests everywhere. A new super-radical, geographically contiguous bloc would be born: Iran, Syria and a radicalized, totalitarian, fragmented Iraq.

As for the argument that the very presence of the foreign forces is a source of tension and that their departure would remove a prime source of violence: It may appear plausible at first glance, but it is in fact without merit. We need to understand precisely who is ready to fight to drive foreign forces out; it is only the Saddamists and the religious extremists (al-Qaeda and the like). If U.S. forces are in fact withdrawn, these people will consider it a victory and go on fighting even harder to achieve control over the country.

Other Iraqis range from those who, while irritated by the foreign forces, would not go so far as to actually fight them to those people who know that there would be big problems for them and the country if those forces were withdrawn prematurely. This majority includes Sunnis as well as Shiites and Kurds.

The question that must be addressed here is what to do now in the face of the combined onslaught of insurgents, terrorists, criminal gangs and sectarian militias. A policy for success should include:

? Developing, with the Iraqi government, workable measures for reforming the security forces, and making available the necessary resources to implement them.


? Supporting the government of Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki in its efforts to disarm the militias. What is needed is a detailed multifaceted approach that encompasses political, economic and public information considerations as well as coercive measures.

? Applying maximum pressure on regional powers to refrain from undermining security in Iraq and to help stabilize it.


? Mobilizing the people to oppose the extremists in their midst. Those who say that Iraqis are at each other's throats and should be left to fight it out are wrong. A minority of sectarian extremists and Saddamists is causing and promoting sectarian violence. These resisters have been successful in intimidating the rest of the population, which abhors them. When they are challenged, as they should be, the great majority of Iraqi men and women will be very supportive.

? Taking the initiative from our enemies by acting boldly and aggressively. Our posture should not be defensive. That is a recipe for defeat.

? Back here in the United States, where Iraq has become a divisive issue, working out a bipartisan understanding aimed at success; an attitude to win this war for America, Iraq and democracy. This item is for American leaders to achieve; the others are collaborative U.S.-Iraqi endeavors.

Is all this achievable? We know it is. Iraqis are resilient. They thirst for normality and a chance to build a future in freedom and dignity. They are fighting and dying for it every day -- witness the numbers enlisting in the security forces despite horrific losses. Witness the support Iraqi women are providing for the political process, and the potential of their emancipation.

The United States cannot escape responsibility for the current situation in Iraq. Not only would abandoning Iraq to its fate now be irresponsible, it would almost certainly lead to disintegration and dictatorship, with a high risk of a wide regional conflict. It would be catastrophic not just for Iraq but also for the United States and for world peace and stability for decades to come. On the other hand, winning this war would be one of the best gifts the United States could make to the world and to its own people.

 

[Agent 0659]

Hippo, are you following me? We posted at the exact same time:com:

 

[DOGS THAT BARK]

"Even most of the well-known staunch conservatives/republicans in this country have long ago jumped ship regarding Iraq."
===========================
Couldn't have too long ago --not prior to 2004 anyway

I'll tell you something else about liberal element in general AR--is they think rules are made for everyone but them in general--Was reading thread upstairs and it once again supported my theory.
My pet peeve on airlines has always been these idiots that carry on 2 or 3 bags that wouldn't remotely fit into the sample box just to avoid baggage claim that the rule followers have to go to.. They think they are immune to any rules and they are made for those "other" people.Ones that particular gets to me are these N.O.W. card carriers who after they hold everyone up in isle they look for some guy to try and sqeeze all there bags in overhead. By time you get to your seat there isn't enough room overhead to sqeeze a wallet in. Then when plane lands you have all the waiting again--for their convenience.
Its 1st thing I thought of when I read airline thread in general.
and who are these offenders who considerations include only themselves --

Nick
"When I saw the new rules on airport security I was worried because I almost never check bags."

HH
"I was a little miffed at the new rules, because like you, I travel a lot and haven't checked a bag in years."

:nooo:

 

[Happy Hippo]

Dogs -

Since when did we break the rules on the airlines? Before these new rules, we were allowed to bring 2 carry-on items. I store one in the overhead bin and one under my seat, and not even a big bag in the overhead. I am never delaying anyone getting off the plane...and a plane has never left late because of me. What is the problem with that? Sorry I don't like my luggage lost and I am a good packer... :shrug:

And I have had to wait for someone before to get their shit and get off the plane - is it really that bad... geez, we lose a minute of "life" waiting on the plane. I can live with that, considering the grand technology of planes that whisk us here and there so quickly in the first place. You "conservatives" (since we're name-calling now) need to lighten up.

 

[smurphy]

:scared :scared

I hope you don't need to ask for any forgiveness...

I actually don't know what it says entirely - but I Iliked Jabberwockey's interpretation of it in another thread. ....and I did stay at a Holiday Inn something something.

 

[DOGS THAT BARK]

No one likes to have to go to baggage claim--No one wants to take chance of luggage lost.
It goes back to the "me" vs considerations of others.
Maybe you are an exception but I've seen few women that could travel with only two pieces that could fit in sample recepticle.
Maybe I'm all wet on my definition of carry on.
If it can't be carried (has wheels) and won't fit in sample recepticle--its not carry on.

 

[Happy Hippo]

Dogs - please approve my baggage. No wheels. This is what I took to Europe for a month, and what I always fly with. I am not selfish, and I am very considerate of other people - perhaps that does not come out on my posts here, but I am a caring person.

Cheers

 

[Agent 0659]

Dogs - please approve my baggage. No wheels. This is what I took to Europe for a month, and what I always fly with. I am not selfish, and I am very considerate of other people - perhaps that does not come out on my posts here, but I am a caring person.

Cheers

Geezus! A month:shrug: What, do you walk around naked 80% of the time?:brows:

Man, I need more than that for a 2 day trip....of course, I have been known to be a little "Metro":scared

 

[DOGS THAT BARK]

If its 2 pieces fits in recepticle --its fine by me.

You travel much more than I --so I do assume you know where I'm coming from on comment-- as I'm sure you witnessed many abusers (both genders) in your travel.

Admittedly I could not fathom that amount of luggage for overseas trip--however I will take you at your word as have no reason to doubt you.

 

[Happy Hippo]

Dogs - Yes, I have witnessed the offenders. They are male and female, and I would also guess a mix of liberals and conservatives. This is why I am not fond of the stereotyping, because people from all walks of life do all kinds of different things, some which may peeve you or I. Case in point - I am not your stereotypical "liberal" woman.

That is indeed what I took to Europe, and my family was rather surprised when I landed with that and came out of customs so quickly I am quite proud of my packing skillz.

And Agent - no, I did not walk around naked :nono: - It is still possible to be style-ly and not lug around a bunch of extra junk. I did have to do laundry a couple times, but it was a great way to meet the locals and I had some truly memorable experiences in the French laundromat.:SIB

OK - this is now WAY :topic:

Any good reading recommendations for me today, boys?

 

[Agent 0659]

Any good reading recommendations for me today, boys?

Hippo,
You dont seem like a woman I could handle in any phase of life, except this department. What you feel like today?:shrug:

 

[Happy Hippo]

What you feel like today?

Truthfully, I need to get some work done today, so unless it's some REAL good reading, don't waste my time like Dr. Freeze did yesterday.

My request was for articles that would give me some convincing evidence that would support our continued presence in Iraq.

Although AR182 doubts I have been trying to find any of these articles, I read all kinds of news and have not come across anything yet. Good luck to you - maybe you will find them! My handicapping report gave you a 10% chance. :SIB

 

[Agent 0659]

Truthfully, I need to get some work done today, so unless it's some REAL good reading, don't waste my time like Dr. Freeze did yesterday.

My request was for articles that would give me some convincing evidence that would support our continued presence in Iraq.

Although AR182 doubts I have been trying to find any of these articles, I read all kinds of news and have not come across anything yet. Good luck to you - maybe you will find them! My handicapping report gave you a 10% chance. :SIB

Listen young lady, when someone extends an offer like that to you, please don't make a comment like "don't waste my time". Do you think I would waste your time? :nono:

Perhaps I would, maybe your mind is so closed, and your political emotion so strong that you couldn't possibly see this any other way? Not suggesting that is the case, just throwing it out there. I would need a ton more back and forth with you to make that assesment. I know a few this way though! And you "lean" as someone that might be the same way.

Maybe I will pull some old emails I have, from a high school friend of mine, who went and joined the Military and went to Iraq as a medic. He sent a monthly newsletter with pics and all via email for his "tour". He believed in helping those people there...100%.

To be perfectly honest, I am not real sure where I stand on it all. And unless we are there, maybe none of us can make that judgment?

However if you truly aren't threatened by me "wasting your time" I would be happy to see what I could dig up for you.

 

[smurphy]

Dogs - Yes, I have witnessed the offenders. They are male and female, and I would also guess a mix of liberals and conservatives. This is why I am not fond of the stereotyping, because people from all walks of life do all kinds of different things, some which may peeve you or I. Case in point - I am not your stereotypical "liberal" woman.

That is indeed what I took to Europe, and my family was rather surprised when I landed with that and came out of customs so quickly I am quite proud of my packing skillz.

And Agent - no, I did not walk around naked :nono: - It is still possible to be style-ly and not lug around a bunch of extra junk. I did have to do laundry a couple times, but it was a great way to meet the locals and I had some truly memorable experiences in the French laundromat.:SIB

OK - this is now WAY :topic:

Any good reading recommendations for me today, boys?

I have met your kind on my travels. Your kind is the best kind. I did not realize your kind hangs out on degenerate gambling forums. We should meet on myspace:SIB . ....or maybe jewwatch.com.

 

[Jabberwocky]

back off smurph...HH and I have fallen in love...you can come for dinner, but lets not have any problems, ok?

 

[smurphy]

I respect your territory, Jabberwockey. Besides, I usually need to see pics first. Don't wanna get stuck with a 'Kosar' style blind date.

.....Damnit, she said something about driving a hybrid though. Oh we have ssoooo much in common (blushing). Fuel economy and strippers are 2 things I just can't say no to.

 

[Jabberwocky]

I respect your territory, Jabberwockey. Besides, I usually need to see pics first. Don't wanna get stuck with a 'Kosar' style blind date.

.....Damnit, she said something about driving a hybrid though. Oh we have ssoooo much in common (blushing). Fuel economy and strippers are 2 things I just can't say no to.

Smurph..it is obvious to me that we are in a duel to the death...we can dance around it, sure, but lets just cut to the chase. I don't know what she looks like, and I don't care...damn't, I love where she is coming from. Stay out of the hh, this is between me and smurph.

 

[kosar]

I respect your territory, Jabberwockey. Besides, I usually need to see pics first. Don't wanna get stuck with a 'Kosar' style blind date.

.....Damnit, she said something about driving a hybrid though. Oh we have ssoooo much in common (blushing). Fuel economy and strippers are 2 things I just can't say no to.

I don't think HH ever said she was a stripper, 'hybrids' notwithstanding.