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Published - Thursday, June 29, 2006

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Your views: Times threatens national security
By PAUL R. NELSON | Woodville, Wis.

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Last week The New York Times ran a story uncovering an intelligence program that monitors foreign financial transactions in order to track terrorists. This revelation ignited a firestorm of debate over what the media should be allowed to print.

What the New York Times did was wrong. Not only did it compromise our national security in publishing classified information, but there’s a strong possibility it broke the law.
Most important in this debate, we must decide what constitutes the freedom of the press. Freedom of the press must be protected, but there is a point at which a story simply becomes treasonous. Freedom of the press cannot allow for the unbridled disclosure of classified information that compromises our safety in a time of war.

Even radical anti-war Congressman John Murtha, D- Pa., was concerned enough that he asked the Times not to print the story. He understood the danger the information would pose to our country. We must open the doors for the Attorney General’s office to launch an investigation into the leak of this information.

There is a serious possibility The Times is in violation of the Espionage Act of 1917, as well as at least one other federal law regulating the disclosure of classified information.

The Times itself has become a national security threat. Its congressional press credentials should be withdrawn until a full criminal investigation is completed.

Paul R. Nelson is a Republican candidate for Congress from Wisconsin’s 3rd District. He is challenging La Crosse Democrat Ron Kind.

Flag burning is not ‘speech’

By AL CAGLE | Onalaska, Wis.

“Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people to peaceably assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.”

For those of you who don’t recognize this, it is the First Amendment. I don’t know when or why but someone (Supreme Court) has the interpretation that flag burning is a way of speaking. This is ridiculous, and I am appalled that both senators from Wisconsin voted down the amendment change to ban flag burning. This ban lost by one vote. I know there are other “hot topics” right now, but I for one will be looking for a candidate with a better perspective on interpretations.

Someone also said that actions speak louder than words, but I think clearly our Founding Fathers actually meant “speech” as actual words from our mouths. The act of burning a flag does not constitute speech in my world. Those of you who want to interpret actions as your way of speech are just wrong. The “act” of sign language is an authorized way of speaking. The “act” of flag burning is not.

It’s time to change course

By JOHN MITCHELL | Humbird, Wis.

I was listening to the radio last week and heard a man make a statement that, unfortunately, I had heard before. The words this man spoke were, “Those who do not support the war in Iraq, and those who are in favor of cutting and running, are cowards and are unpatriotic.” These words angered me less than they had in the past for several reasons.

The first reason is that this sort of bullying in the name of “patriotism” is becoming less and less tolerated. The second reason is that this illegal invasion and occupation of Iraq is rapidly losing support with Americans.

The initial reasons for invading Iraq have been thoroughly discredited. These reasons were that Iraq was an imminent threat to us and that it was somehow linked to the attacks on Sept. 11, 2001, of the World Trade Center and the Pentagon. The American people are waking up to the terrific cost in money, the American and Iraqi lives lost, and our declining standing in the world community.

My idea of a wise leader is one who can re-examine decisions based on new evidence in terms of results and outcomes. A courageous leader can admit mistakes and change course.

It’s time for new leadership in this county, leadership that is both wise and courageous. Those in Congress who speak of ending our occupation in Iraq and allowing Iraqis to determine their own destiny have my full support. They are neither unpatriotic nor cowards. They are courageous patriots who are exercising their democratic right of free speech.

A nice way to spend an evening

By CLIVE B. McBAIN SR. | West Salem, Wis.

We attended the summer musical “Beauty and the Beast” at the Heider Center in West Salem on Saturday, June 24. If you didn’t get to see it, you certainly missed a great show. The cast, singing, acting, costumes, scenery, orchestra, production and technical crews were all excellent! What a nice way to spend an evening.

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    To Slider wrote on Jul 7, 2006 10:24 PM:

    " Great post man! "

    Slider wrote on Jul 5, 2006 9:21 PM:

    " Remember who the decider is? Last I heard it is King George, and he is also the head leaker, as he decided to leak information to the press to cover up some scandal, and then he lies about it . What a leader and decider. "

    T: Brian has rejected the Bible as the Word of God. wrote on Jul 5, 2006 9:05 PM:

    " Look at this post from Wed 5/28...Re; God loves you wrote on June 30, 2006 12:41 PM: "The Bible is a work of fiction, not the word of God." Compare that to 1Jo 5:10 He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself: he that believeth not God hath called him a liar; because he believeth not the record that God gave of his Son. What is that record that God gave of His Son? Its the Bible. If a person feel "oppressed" when the Word of God is quoted, then that would be the Holy Spirit convicting them of something. Your assumption that the Word of God will bring everyone togather is not Biblical. Many people will reject it, but it still needs to be put out there. "

    To: "Brian, please explain..." wrote on Jul 5, 2006 1:49 PM:

    " For every quote you spew, another quote can be returned to counter. Brian doesn't reject the Word of God or call Him a liar. His "quotes" exist as well as yours. Isn't manipulation of God's Word to support your position the same as calling Him a liar? Isn't persecution of God's Children by use of quotes from the Bible also a sin? Isn't using the Word to boast, manipulate and oppress others a slap in His face? Please. T "

    Willie wrote on Jul 5, 2006 9:08 AM:

    " Darral, there is no such thing as "combat pay". And yes, we still get "hostile fire pay" and "hardship duty pay" despite the fact Bush claimed "Mission Accomplished". To my knowlege that type of pay never stopped. That is why it is called "hostile fire pay", not "combat pay". Everyone stationed in western Asia gets it, not just in Iraq or Afghanistan. "

    BGS wrote on Jul 5, 2006 7:29 AM:

    " I agree people don't enlist to die for the flag...but many a man has died so that we can fly our flags in our front yards. The flag symbolizes everything that is great in our country. I also agree we have greater concerns than flag burning. I don't think they should waste time arguing about a law banning flag burning, they should just do it with no debate. -dkw "

    Darral Faas wrote on Jul 5, 2006 1:12 AM:

    " Bush also cut soldiers pay the minute he said, "Mission Accomplished!" by ending combat pay for those over there. I believe it took an act of Congress after some Americans like myself to restore at least some of those funds. Did you do anything like that for them? Do you fight for injustice like this or are you blinded by the Bush baloney? "

    Darral Faas wrote on Jul 5, 2006 1:06 AM:

    " To my last three post remarks: First, sorry about the misspelling on pied piper, but did you get the point? Be sure you correct all spelling including those you agree with so they can be fully enlighten. Second, the associate property is done in math, not English. Your "comparison" has been answered, maybe not to YOUR satisfaction. Since you cannot tell the difference between Americans and the Taliban, I need not say more. Finally, what are soldiers when they return...VETERANS! Bush slaps them all for their service by reducing what we need when they return, therefore CUTTING their benefits. Furthermore, this President FAILED to send our troops with needed body armour that would have reduced casualities. Not that he cared, Bush and Cheney got what they wanted at whose costs? Try the American taxpayers and our country's soldiers. "

    last post to Darral wrote on Jul 4, 2006 5:52 AM:

    " it was a simple english lesson, too bad you didn't get it. associative property look it up. i will not waste any more of my time on you. happy independence day to you. "

    re: Darral Faas wrote on Jul 4, 2006 1:23 AM:

    " FYI the Bush administration is not cutting the soldiers benefits, they are cutting veterans benefits. At least you could be more accurate in your arguments! "

    re: Darral Faas wrote on Jul 4, 2006 1:21 AM:

    " What's a pipe piper anyway? Do you mean "pied piper?" Before you accuse others of not reading or thinking clearly, maybe you should check your own postings first! "

    Darral Faas wrote on Jul 3, 2006 11:41 PM:

    " To independent thinker: If you want to fully see how I support our soldiers, read my writings of YOUR VIEWS dated June 27. I wrote on June 28 what you need to read. I do support our troops, but not the reasoning we went to Iraq from the get-go. Instead of getting bin Laden for 9/11, we went to Iraq to get Saddaam for Bush's daddy, oil, and other reasons that had nothing to do with 9/11. The Bushwackers have used 9/11 and America's blind patroitism for this mess. But how many of our soldiers have to die for this? I suggest we get our soldiers out of there, or send Bush, Cheney, Rumsfeld and their families with other like-minded persons over there to fight because they are lining their pockets while cutting soldiers benefits. Now I consider that the ultimate slap in the face. "

    Darral Faas wrote on Jul 3, 2006 10:59 PM:

    " To the good thing about flag burners is: At least they don't follow so blindly. Where's the pipe piper when we need him to show the blind and foolhardy what to think and where to go? Oh sorry, Bush and Cheney are already doing so. "

    Darral Faas wrote on Jul 3, 2006 10:54 PM:

    " Once again to the so-called "independent thinker": You seem to lack understanding and the ability to read or think clearly. If you read my point it said, "I support our troops...". This does not include the Taliban because they are not citizens of the US. READ MORE CAREFULLY AND COMPLETELY before you jump to foolish conclusions. Supporting people's basic needs are one thing, but I require our leaders to make sure our soldiers have what they need to both survive AND succeed. I have previously explained how I support our soldiers in spite their Commander-in-Chief. I blame both Bush and power hungry Cheney because they wanted Iraq since 9/11 for sure and were so willing to send in the troops. Both are liars and have made Americans who support them fools. Are you among those fooled? "

    Re; Elijah wrote on Jul 3, 2006 10:47 PM:

    " Thanks for the earnest response. - Brian G Smith "

    The good thing about flag burners is........ wrote on Jul 3, 2006 9:28 PM:

    " It identifies the idiots easier. "

    To independent thinker wrote on Jul 3, 2006 8:54 PM:

    " Who are you to tell Darral or anyone else what they can and can't say? This is America pal, he/they can say whatever they want. Just because you have a problem with what he says doesn't mean he's wrong. Maybe you are for the way you think. "

    To Brian, a partial answer on Elijah. wrote on Jul 3, 2006 8:44 PM:

    " I am sure that there are better sources to get a more complete answer, but the short answer is that mocking God or His prophets (OT time) is a serious offense. Elijah was sent to northern "Israel" to bring them back to God. He performed amazing miracles in front of them (fire down from heaven to burn up a water soaked alter) and these teenagers still thought God and His messenger was to be mocked. Unfortunately, we don't get the whole story on these teenagers, so it does require some faith that it was a just punishment, but not blind faith. God does have mercy and patience, but it is unwise to continue to test God's patience. "

    Dear Willie Supporter wrote on Jul 3, 2006 7:19 PM:

    " I take issue with the statement or claim that people have died for a flag. I believe people have died protecting their families and communities. They have died trying to kill an enemy. They have died for American ideals. The flag is an important symbol, but I don't think anyone enlists to die for a flag. - Brian G Smith "

    Dear Willie Supporter wrote on Jul 3, 2006 7:15 PM:

    " The Flag is a symbol. It is also a piece of fabric. I think legislators should be more concerned with humans rather than symbols of Nationalism. Ever notice the words NATION or NATIONAL are NOT mentioned in the US Constitution? The Founders feared blind Nationalism. It's just another forewarning we were given that we're not heeding. Flag burners burn flags at their own peril. I for one would not stand by and allow it to happen. Considering it happened 4 times last year I don't think it's a priority, body armour and a military strategy are. - Brian G Smith "

    Willie Supporter wrote on Jul 3, 2006 3:19 PM:

    " I want to ask BGS and D Faas a question, (simply becuase you seem educated and respond regularly). If people feel the need to rebel by burning the flag that so many men died for, just because they don't agree with our government...shouldn't they leave the country? I know we are a free nation, but if you are not happy here, why stay here? Don't burn something that cost our country a great price. -dkw "

    Dear Willie wrote on Jul 3, 2006 10:00 AM:

    " I disagree with you, that I haven't answered any questions you've posed. Regarding the Bible quotes I have used...I use them to counter those I believe are pontificating....coming down on the world with a holier than thou attitude. It so happens I have studied the Bible, have read books about the writing of the Bible and am quite knowledgeable about scholarly facts and opinions of the Bible. During my first 21 years I never missed Sunday Mass. However, reading the Bible word for word, verse for verse, absolutley turned me against the book. What's your take on the prophet Elijah who sent a horde of bears to maul and kill a bunch of teenagers who had made fun of his bald head? - Brian G Smith "

    independent thinker wrote on Jul 3, 2006 9:27 AM:

    " once again Darral you don't address the issue i brought up, you ought to run for office yourself the way you talk out of both sides of your mouth. you can't say you support someone because they are a person with out saying you support everyone that is a person. i say i support the troops, because they are fighting for the USA reagrdless who their leadership is. "

    Darral Faas wrote on Jul 3, 2006 9:08 AM:

    " To "independent thinker": I support OUR soldiers first as people because they are human beings who happen to be soldiers. They need food, clothing, and protection just like you and me. However, as soldiers they need other things as well like the best available equipment and leadership to accomplish any mission. It is here where soldiers have been failed upon by leadership. And it is here where the mess needs clean up first. It is here also where I confront our leaders at home to do a better job because that is what we elect some of them to do. Once that is truly done, then the soldier needs to determine the enemy for finishing the conflict. This is another problem they face. And in this area I am not much help. To the soldiers, I wish God's speed in your return home safely. "

    independent thinker wrote on Jul 3, 2006 6:12 AM:

    " Darral, your veiws are skewed, you say that you support the troops first because they are people, secondly because they are soldiers. here is what is arong with that thinking, the Taliban is filled with PEOPLE too, and consider them selves soldiers. now i know you don't support them, but please watch what you are saying if you are trying to make a point for us to follow. it is hard to take you seriously when you say things like this. "

    Darral Faas wrote on Jul 2, 2006 11:18 PM:

    " To Willie: We finally have found something we can agree on...your intent to purchase a hybrid. There is hope for us both. While you may disagree with both my ideals and facts that are based on my experiences, I do listen to others including yours. I was taught that when you see something you dislike but is not illegal, remove yourself from among its midst and act like a person viewing TV: don't watch. While you may not like me or my views, I see change as necessary to PROMOTE FREEDOM NOT LIMIT IT. And it is there where we will differ in our viewpoints. I support our troops because they are people first, soldiers second. And while you may not want my support, you will not change my view on the way I support our troops ever, including asking the tough questions. "

    Willie wrote on Jul 2, 2006 7:43 PM:

    " The reason I haven't challenge any conservative postings is because they haven't challenged any of my liberal sided beliefs. Either that or they really were right-wing nut jobs whose comments weren't worthy of a response. I know, I know, Brian, these last few postings make it look like I'm the one who thinks I have the authority. Now you see what it looks like. "

    Willie wrote on Jul 2, 2006 7:33 PM:

    " Brian, you lost me a long time ago when you started spouting out biblical verses and references and attempted to use them to legitimize your stance. I have answered some of your questions, however you didn't like the answers. The rest of your questions I wouldn't even entertain an answer to because I didn't think they were worthy questions. You were merely answering a question with a question. You act like you are the only legitimate authority on these postings (unless of course they agree with you. You can continue to challenge my opinion, I'll decide if I'm going to answer you or not, not you. "

    Quoting from the Bible really only makes sense if you believe it. wrote on Jul 2, 2006 4:41 PM:

    " Suppose you said that Republicans are evil because it says so in the Marvel comics editions q3234, and that I am in the clutches of Lex Luthor. I might try to point out to you that comics are not real, but if that failed, I certainly wouldn't start quoting other Marvel comics at you. But, if you think that by doing a liberal minded cut and paste of the Bible will help you "win" your arguements, I say, "Go ahead." To me, it just points out how the Democratic party has become the party of unbelievers. "

    All scripture is inspired by God. wrote on Jul 2, 2006 2:22 PM:

    " All your cut and paste shows is that God inspired Paul to be humble. If Paul wasn't inspired by God, why add the little "disclaimer?" Why not just write whatever his heart felt like? No one would know or could debate him on it? Paul's humility in this case shows that God was inspiring him. It also shows Paul was human just like us. Sometimes a preacher/teacher feels something is of God, but gives a "disclaimer" because it isn't always crystal clear. "

    Luke records Mary's geneology, Matthew records Joseph's wrote on Jul 2, 2006 2:11 PM:

    " There does exist Bible "difficulties" (things that appear to contradict or don't make sense) but these have been known for ages and have been addressed. You can look at many of these "difficulties" at http://www.carm.org/diff/2geneologies.htm To believe in the Bible does require faith, but not blind faith. Do some research for yourself and see. "

    Hey Brian, I answered your question yesterday. wrote on Jul 2, 2006 2:04 PM:

    " Yes, all power, whether it's to nations, governments, or individuals ultimately comes from God. I answered your question a couple of times in Wednesdays "your views" section, because that is where you originally opposed the idea. Your belief that evil nations/governments/individuals can't get their power from God it typically liberal, and can be found in the logic used by the anti-gun lobby. They wish to sue gun manufacturers out of business because they feel that guns are evil, and therefore the makers of guns must be evil. The fact is that guns are neither good nor evil just power. How we use it determines how we will be judged. It is the same with governmental power. "

    To Willie wrote on Jul 2, 2006 1:30 PM:

    " Thanks for responding with an ounce of decency. That would be nice if everyone would do that. I wouldn't be too proud of being an ornary sob though. I really get where your coming from but it tends to rub some people the wrong way. (like it did me). Darral and BGS don't want to control peoples minds or thoughts either. Their just as passionate about their beliefs as you are. If you look at all of their posts, most of the time they are basing comments on facts not opinions. They appear to be pretty well read, knowledgeable fellows to me anyway.Now, I'm not calling you a liar either,but if you really are indeed in the "middle" like you say, why do you confront the liberal posters but not the conservatives?I certainly appreciate the fact that you want a hybrid next! I was thinking of possibly doing that myself. "

    Dear Willie wrote on Jul 2, 2006 12:23 PM:

    " You're an opinionated lightweight, an ornery SOB that can't answer a direct question. I have posed many to you. Questions are not opinions. Answer a few an earn some credit here or otherwise remain recognized as a whining old nerd. -My mind can be changed, by the way. My opinions evolve with the revelation of facts on the ground combined with personal life experiences. Please go back and answer a few questions. Do you think the Biblical God wants you hoisting, praising and worshipping a flag? I don't believe so....but then again, I have read the Bible numerous times......probably the worst thing to do to strengthen my 'faith'. Brian G Smith "

    criminal to Willie wrote on Jul 2, 2006 10:33 AM:

    " I'm with you in a lot of ways, man. Personally, I have no time for someone willing to burn a flag; however, as it's the law that says he can do it........ And doncha just hate how people automatically think just because one is pro military that it follows that s/he must needs be a right wing nutjob? "

    criminal wrote on Jul 2, 2006 10:30 AM:

    " haven't read all the posts......... was out in the field for a few days and don't have the time to read all the banter........ BUT... Anytime you print a story where the details contained could easily benefit the cause of an enemy with whom active war is engaged is, by definition and by THE LAW, an act of treason. The reporter as well as his supervisor should go to prison and the managing editor should be shot for giving the OK to print it. "

    flag burning wrote on Jul 2, 2006 10:30 AM:

    " I think you should be able to burn a flag in front of the VFW.Then i think the police should have a right to really take their time coming over to pull those veterans off of you.Unfortunately letting these morons burn a flag is part of the price we pay for our freedom.It is against the law to incite a riot,couldn't that law be used? "

    Willie wrote on Jul 2, 2006 8:12 AM:

    " Yes I am an ornery SOB, thank you for noticing. I am a non-com, not a politically oriented officer that will blow sunshine up your dress. Next question. By the way I never said that the conservatives were any better did I? You just assume that because I attack liberal opinions. I am actually in the middle. I have very progressive views on energy and conservation. I plan on my next vehicle being a hybrid, and I too look forward to the day we are not dependent on fossil fuels. However I will not back down or go away because I stand behind my "anti-flag burning" beliefs. I prefer pro-flag protection though. "

    Willie wrote on Jul 2, 2006 8:04 AM:

    " No I don't want Darral Faas's support because he doesn't believe in and support what I do. I know that there is no changing his or BGS's mind. I respond so it doesn't appear to them or other readers that they are actually controlling peoples' thoughts. I merely point out that there are other beliefs and opinions, and that they can be expounded on in the same antagonizing fashion. They try to come accross as having authority on the subjects they comment on when they don't know any more about them than I do. FYI opinions can never be wrong as you liberals keep pointing out. Mine and other "right wing" opinions can only be as misguided as your "leftie" opinions. As far as backing them up with facts, the last time I checked, polls are also known as "opinion" polls. Statistics based on polls are not facts. "

    To Slider wrote on Jul 2, 2006 12:54 AM:

    " You are absolutely correct about his Enron buddies. Ken Lay and Skilling should go to prison for YEARS. They are despicable characters that destroyed hundreds of peoples incomes and lives. After all, Martha Stewart went to jail for a heckuva lot less. George Bush said that he was going to crack down on white collar crime. We'll see if he is really a man of his word. If he pardons Ken Lay, he loses all the rest of his credibility as a president. "

    Is all Scripture inspired by God? wrote on Jul 2, 2006 12:50 AM:

    " According to 2 Timothy 3:16 it is... "All scripture is given by inspiration of God...." - According to 1 Corinthians 7:12 it is not all inspired by God, but rather the writer himself... "But to the rest speak I, not the Lord." Again in 1 Corinthians 7:25, "Now concerning virgins I have no commandment of the Lord: yet I give my judgment...." "

    The Bible is not God's record, it's too imperfect wrote on Jul 2, 2006 12:46 AM:

    " There are 29 generations listed from David to Jesus in Matthew's genealogy (1:6-16) , while Luke's (3:23-31) has 43. Except for David at one end and Jesus at the other, there are only three names in the two lists that are the same. Guess God didn't clear up the family tree with the Gospel writers. "

    Dear Willie wrote on Jul 2, 2006 12:35 AM:

    " How much do you know about our Founding Fathers? Do you know what a Deist is? Do you know why GOD or JESUS is never mentioned in the US Constitution? Don't reply to me if you cain't answer those simple question. - Brian G Smith "

    Why quote the Bible wrote on Jul 2, 2006 12:33 AM:

    " Because the Bible is so often used by folks to present some angle on an argument, I use the very same Bible to counter any argument I find absurd. Now, the fool who keeps chirping that "Government's derive their power from God" hasn't answered which of the 188 global governments are ordained by God? And what about evil governments....? Can we not say God gave them their power? Please answer those two points oh wise, pontificating Bible expert. Brian G SMith "

    SLIDER wrote on Jul 1, 2006 11:21 PM:

    " Maybe the dicider leaked the information to the NY Times. His Texas ego is too big for his boots and 10 gallon hat. The President is not a decider but a hopeless puppet, run by big business, maybe he should have been on trial for the Enron hearings with his buddies who by the way are guiltly and should have no special privilages when put in the crowbar estate. "

    Willie wrote on Jul 1, 2006 9:21 PM:

    " If you don't want Darral Faas's sympathy, does that mean you don't want his support either?It may be your OPINION about flag burning, but the Supreme Court has ruled otherwise.Just by your comments about Liberals being godless, amoral and lacking foresight goes to show you how much freedom of speech we can have. In America, you can have those opinions even if you are wrong. "

    To Willie wrote on Jul 1, 2006 8:37 PM:

    " You sound like an ornary SOB. Conservatives these days are nothing like our forefathers either.The descripion you gave Liberals is exactly what Republicans are. You just don't handle change very well do you? Did you read that Time Essay yet? I like the Generals tone and explanations a lot better than your's. "

    Darral Faas wrote on Jul 1, 2006 12:33 PM:

    " To all the Biblical conservatives: You cannot always take the Bible literally, because there is use of various types of literature within like poetry, imagery and lessons to learn by. There is challengeable history within its words and deeds and at times a flipflop of truth. The Bible is not perfect because man wrote it and acted as its intepreter. And like our history, it is only as good as what was recorded. Otherwise, there would be only one denomination of Christianity instead of its multitudes. Should you study the Greek and Hebrew languages with an open mind, you will see the complexity this entails. Only simple minds will not acknowledge this, thereby being susceptible to singlemindedness, stubborness, and rely on only half-truths. You become easy targets to manipulate by Bush and his cronies. "

    Willie's re to Lori wrote on Jul 1, 2006 12:28 PM:

    " I do believe in freedom of expression an true liberty to persue happiness. I just believe that flag desecration is un-American and isn't a guaranteed constitutional protection. In other words my feelings and OPINION on the subject as a U.S soldier allow me at least to defend an attack on my belief system from liberals! You people sure aren't acknowleging my freedom of expression. I guess that proves my point. Liberals these days aren't the same patriots that founded this country and are merely defending your own self-interests by infringing on my rights. "

    Willie wrote on Jul 1, 2006 12:14 PM:

    " Mr. Smith liberals these days are nothing like our fore-fathers. Many liberals today are godless, amoral, and lack foresight. You aren't even worthy of a comparison! "

    Willie wrote on Jul 1, 2006 12:07 PM:

    " Don't cry for me and other soldiers Darral Faas, I don't need your sympathy when I am in Iraq fighting for a cause I and many of my bretheran believe in. "

    The Bible is the record of God, Brian wrote on Jul 1, 2006 10:11 AM:

    " 1Jo 5:10 He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself: he that believeth not God hath made him a liar; because he believeth not the record that God gave of his Son. 1Jo 5:11 And this (the Bible) is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. 1Jo 5:12 He that hath the Son hath life; [and] he that hath not the Son of God hath not life. "

    Brian, please explain why you quote from a "book of myths." wrote on Jul 1, 2006 10:08 AM:

    " If you truely believe the Bible is a book of myths, why do you even bother to quote from it? You must believe that all Bible believing Christians are crazy to believe that this "book of myths" is actually true. If you believe that Bible believing Christains are crazy, why are you trying to convince them that they are crazy from their own book? It seems crazier to argue with a "crazy" man than to just move along. I believe you hope that by fighting against God/the Bible/Christains you will ease your conscience for your decision to reject God's word. Rejecting God's word is the same as calling God a liar. "

    Dear Willie: (from Lori) wrote on Jul 1, 2006 2:31 AM:

    " Regarding the flag burning, it's a matter of perception over patriotism. Americans do not burn their flag because they hate this country (i.e., effigy), but rather they burn the flag in protest of a government that has altered or aborted the ideals that this country was founded upon, the most important of which is the freedom for everyone to say what we think and feel. If you believe in "liberty for all" then you must support the right of everyone to act, believe, or express ourselves in a manner of our own choosing, even if that means a manner which is disagreeable to you personally. That's the whole point of liberty, Willie. To remove the freedom of expression from one group of people because it is offensive to another group of people is to debase the idea of liberty itself. "

    Dear E Faas wrote on Jul 1, 2006 2:14 AM:

    " Don't tell me how to quote the Bible. I quote like any other doo-dah. You have no more insight than I or anyone else. Don't fool yourself. I've read Bible word for word three times. The Bible is full of myths and legends from earlier, more advanced civilizations than the wandering Jews. The Bible says Avraham was from the city of UR, yet the city named UR didn't come into existence until a full 1000 years after Avraham allegedly came from it. God does not ordain governments. Get over it. - BGS "

    Dear Willie wrote on Jul 1, 2006 2:09 AM:

    " Where were you when 241 US Marines were suicide bombed to death in Bierut Lebanon in 1983? Who was the US pResident? What did he do in response? Did he trade weapons with the same Iranians that had held us hostage? Iran-Contra....in my opinion the terminal cancer of the conservative movement. How many ex-Iran/Contra criminals are in George W.'s administration? Your ignorant use of the word LIBERAL is astonishing. Do you think the Founding Fathers were conservative, status quo types....or rebellious liberal types? I don't expect an honest answer. - Brian G SMith "

    Dear Willie wrote on Jul 1, 2006 2:02 AM:

    " What do you actually know about Independence Day? I have a sense you couldn't lay out the facts about the 4th of July without a google search. - you know who "

    Jake wrote on Jul 1, 2006 1:57 AM:

    " Dude, you're in the minority view. 70% of the nation sees Bush and his policies as a failure. You must be slow or missing the info. Always sweet to get insulted by someone innately knowledgeable of a Simpson's character. You must lead an exciting life. - Brian G Smith "

    To Give me a Break wrote on Jul 1, 2006 12:21 AM:

    " You are still fascinated with that whole Monica thing aren't you? Rush must be STILL keeping that memory alive for you. It's too bad you can't get past it. His wife has forgiven him and so did at least 68% of the American people. Why can't you? Besides, his so called "scandals" were small peanuts compared to Bush/Cheneys lies and deceptions.The world has moved on, I hope you can someday. "

    To Willie and the rest of you on here concerned about flag burning wrote on Jul 1, 2006 12:15 AM:

    " Try reading the last page of this weeks Time magazine.It's an essay by Major General Robert Scales. In it he says that debating a ban during war is a waste of time and sends troops the wrong message. Don't create the perception among our young men and women in combat that there are more important issues than their welfare at the moment.Wait a while. At least for their sake, wait until the last flag draped coffin comes home.And if you get a chance to read this there is also a great article in there about Teddy Roosevelt! "

    Darral Faas wrote on Jul 1, 2006 12:14 AM:

    " To Willie: An American flag was burned tonight in protest. The blood of over 2500 soldiers and many Iraqi civilians was on it and it had to go. Blood cause by a careless President and those advising him. I could not cleanse this flag from its tarnishment in the world or in my heart. A new flag will take its place to be raise for July 4th, but only raised to half mast because there are soldiers still in Iraq where they do not belong. It may take another flag to end this misery created by blind ambition and hatred of those in the conservative group. Only victory by progressives will save this nation and its flag from its present blindness. And this victory cannot come soon enough. Willie, you can cry for the flag, but I cry for the soldiers who aren't coming home alive or well. "

    Orchestra Member wrote on Jun 30, 2006 10:26 PM:

    " Thank you so much for the kind words about "Beauty & the Beast" in West Salem. As a member of the "pit" orchestra, it's very nice to receive such a public compliment. I will share your thoughts with my colleagues. "

    Give me a Break! wrote on Jun 30, 2006 8:49 PM:

    " The problems of the world will not be solved on the LaCrosse Tribune's web site, so you might as well sit back and enjoy the entertainment. Besides Monica Lewinsky wasn't even that good looking and was slightly overweight. If "slick willy" had such a high I.Q. why did he put his marriage on the line for that? On second thought don't answer that, I know, he wasn't thinking with his I.Q. "

    re: USA wrote on Jun 30, 2006 8:41 PM:

    " ...and national security threatens our government... "

    To: Move America Forward wrote on Jun 30, 2006 8:36 PM:

    " You're putting Israel in the same category as the Taliban? What's wrong with you? It's pretty easy for people like you to watch TV or read little articles about what goes on in Israel, and it's easy to focus mainly on the bad (which is exactly what you do). Have you ever been there? Have you ever entered a restaurant or shopping mall in Israel? There are guards posted at most of them to keep suicide bombers out. Israel has made some serious mistakes, but who are the true terrorists in this picture? How you can put them in the same category as Taliban is beyond me. "

    Willie's re: to Darral Faas wrote on Jun 30, 2006 8:27 PM:

    " Amen to that: Thank God I don't see the world the same way you do. I couldn't live with myself that way. If that makes me a bad soldier so be it! "

    Willie wrote on Jun 30, 2006 8:23 PM:

    " You liberals need to get your heads out of your full point of contact. Burning a worn and torn flag is proper disposal, not desecration. A pillowcase painted like a flag is not a flag. (Purists would claim that is not a proper display of the flag in any way shape or form.) What we are talking about is desecration i.e. disrespecting the flag and what it stands for by burning it in effigy!!! You people really are idiots and are not loyal Americans. I will end on a more positive note: Thank you to all Americans who are patriotic and do support soldiers. May you all enjoy your Independence Day and remember those that served and died to make us one nation under God, with liberty and justice for all. "

    Darral Faas wrote on Jun 30, 2006 8:03 PM:

    " To all conservatives: You continue to amaze me in your simple rhetoric. If you don't agree with someone, you resort to name calling or other childish behaviors. Because I've spent 14 years studying various religions and demoninations, E. Faas is the last person to council anyone on the use of scripture. Your problem is that you have trouble accepting others opinions that don't agree with your own too. I have taken the time to read Rush Limbaugh's books, listen to his programs, and have seen some of the programs on Fox News with an open mind. I ask tough questions that requires more than a yes/no answer. Real people who know me consider my ideas more moderate and compassionate than we got in President Bush. I pray someday we elect people who care more about others than themselves. However I don't see this within the conservative arena. "

    Move America Forward wrote on Jun 30, 2006 5:15 PM:

    " Let’s help America now! But how? By taking a hard look at it for starters: i) we are afraid of our own shadows, meaning an empty Cuba and defrocked Iraq. ii) We have protected terrorists (ex Cubans etc), the Israel state, Taliban. Does that make us terrorists (putting aside for one moment GWB’s own definition)? iii) There are serious issues out there like health care, poverty, Africa, global warming, energy; We need to focus on these and the rest will follow. iv) We re-elected Bush so we deserve him! Can’t impeach him (that requires a cigar and a saucy intern, a war is not enough). "

    To BGS and everyone else wrote on Jun 30, 2006 5:07 PM:

    " Congrats to BGS: surely a Chomsky fan in this welter of conservatism? i) why insult each other? It's a waste of time: better to discuss real issues. ii) yes, the Bush administration, like those –especially Reagan’s- before it, uses the fear factor in boosting their popularity in order to facilitate their agendae. Kennedy definitely used it. It is part of our national character for some reason. iii) flag burning can seriously offend certain people, especially vets, but so is giving them the finger. Serge Gainsburg, a total radical, sang the Marseillaise in reggae but apologized to vets. Unconstitutional? Give me a break, we've got better things to worry about don't we, like health care for everyone, peace, global warming? These are real issues folks – we all know it so let's talk about them and use old-fashioned American ingenuity to solve them. "

    The TIMES irresponsibility wrote on Jun 30, 2006 3:06 PM:

    " For the LA Times, NY Times, and any other paper that makes the decision to tip-off terrostits by publishing information concerning covert operations is being nothing less than TREASONIST. The papers, columnist, editors etc. should be held to treasonist charges! "

    Hey, Grammer Cop! wrote on Jun 30, 2006 3:01 PM:

    " Did you know that Bill Clinton has the highest IQ of all the Presidents? Do you have a guess as to who has the lowest?? George W. Bush. I kid you not. I read it in this very paper in the past 6 weeks, and it's not a partisan study. Guess who is 2nd lowest?? George the First. No kidding. Anyone too surprised?? To be honest, I don't remember who came in 2nd from the top, but he wasn't a Republican. Ronald Reagan was not too high, but he was better than either Bush. He was a Hollywood actor! He was also rich, so it is no surprise he was Republican. "

    RE: Just how stupid do you think we are? wrote on Jun 30, 2006 2:43 PM:

    " VERY STUPID. that's how stupid. Everyone is forgetting that what was reported was an ILLEGAL wiretapping and searching of YOUR financial records. BUSH IS THE CRIMINAL. IMPEACH BUSH/CHENNEY NOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! "

    To: Brian G Smith wrote on Jun 30, 2006 1:17 PM:

    " Keep up the good fight Brian. I sincerely like you. "

    criminal wrote on Jun 30, 2006 12:55 PM:

    " the government has been doing these kinds of things all along. there have been 'atrocities' happening in every armed conflict in history. there have been examples of 'scandalous' and 'salacious' behavior on the part of our trusted public servants since there have been servants serving the public. the only thing that's NEW is that there is a camera and a microphone there, being run by a prostitute willing to just show the world everything in exchange for a cheap buck (reporters don't make big bucks, unless you're an anchor on a network) "

    USA wrote on Jun 30, 2006 12:41 PM:

    " our goverment threatens national security "

    Jake wrote on Jun 30, 2006 12:40 PM:

    " Everytime I see a blog by Brian Smith I think of that fat comic book salesman on the Simpsons. Brian Smith is angry because nobody has ever taken him seriously and after you listen to him for a few minutes he starts to creep a person out. "

    Dear E. Faas wrote on Jun 30, 2006 12:36 PM:

    " I believe in the "We the People" America. You're happy to relinquish civic duty to sloganeering corporate con artists. I think war profiteers are treasonous....do you? I think misusing our volunteer forces is treason....do you? I think fighting for the Constitution and fighting for the Free America our Founders envisioned is Patriotic....do you? I think continually calling folks unpatriotic at the slightest arisal of opinion difference is the mode of the weak and uninformed....is this you ? - Brian G Smith "

    Just how stupid do you think we are? wrote on Jun 30, 2006 12:02 PM:

    " Bush revealed the secret program? B.S. The President didn't reveal the methods and sources like the traitors at the times printed. If it was no big deal, then why would so many Democrats, including anti-war advocate John Murtha, urge the Times not to print it? Your ignorance is showing and you liberals can rationalize your treason all you like but it's still treason. "

    Al Cagle here patriotic as ever wrote on Jun 30, 2006 11:46 AM:

    " well let's start here first, i am neither dem. or rep. so don't lump me in with any of them and i know there are more important things going on right now, hence the other hot topics note in my letter. the wearing of clothes that have flags on them or are made to look like flags do not apply to the Flag Code, it addresses an actual FLAG. the neglected flags around town should be cared for but i cannot educate everyone on how to do it, i would thank some of you to help me. i guess my whole point of the letter was about the interpretation, i know right now people have the right to burn flags i just wish they wouldn't. it does offend me, because i take it personally, sorry.lastly thank you Andrew Nelson and R.G. "

    Cage Fighter wrote on Jun 30, 2006 11:36 AM:

    " You guys better watch it. I think Brian G Smith could handle himself pretty good. A couple of times when someone mentioned slapping some sense into him(the context suggested figuratively)-he invited that person to come do so. Now, you would not challenge 2 anonymous people unless you were pretty confident in being able to handle yourself. I would like to know Brians thoughts on the following scenario: When the President of France visited, what if George Bush and the Secret Service had given him a wedgie, a swirlie, then made him kiss George W's foot? Would you have been outraged or amused? If you were in a position to do so, would you have helped France's President? "

    George Bush wrote on Jun 30, 2006 9:56 AM:

    " Why is Brian G Smith so angry? "

    E. Faas wrote on Jun 30, 2006 9:53 AM:

    " Brian G. Smith and Darral Faas would have you believe that you can only be truly free or truly patriotic if you have beliefs similar to their own. They view anyone with even a slight conservative tone to be "the enemy". You two parrot on about having an open mind, but attack anyone who diffes with you. One more thing Brian, stop quoting bible verses out of context that you don't understand. "

    To Brian & Darral wrote on Jun 30, 2006 7:03 AM:

    " Great posts guys. Just goes to show you how people feel when they put some thought into their posts and not just anger. "

    Lori wrote on Jun 30, 2006 4:15 AM:

    " The Supreme Court has ruled, "If there is a bedrock principle underlying the First Amendment, it is that the government may not prohibit the expression of an idea simply because society finds the idea itself offensive or disagreeable." Meaning, we may not prohibit the burning of the flag simply because some soldiers who fight for the ideals the flag IS SUPPOSED TO UPHOLD find it offensive and/or disagreeable to burn the flag in opposition to a government who has forgotten or otherwise ignoared what the flag IS SUPPOSED TO UPHOLD. "

    NO worry about invasion wrote on Jun 30, 2006 3:30 AM:

    " There is so much hate in our own country,that the terrorists can just set back and wait for us to destroy ourselves.Maybe agood civil war is in the makings between the libbies and conservs.Keep fiddling cause Rome is burning,and it ain't the flags we'll be smelling,and there won't be anyplace for the chickens to hide. "

    TO Brian G. Smith wrote on Jun 30, 2006 3:05 AM:

    " Is it true the G. in your name is really George as in George Bush.You should be proud of that. "

    Darral Faas wrote on Jun 30, 2006 2:27 AM:

    " To its a soldier: Soldiers don't give us freedoms, they protect them. Soldiers didn't write the Constitution by themselves, Americans did. It has been the people within this nation standing up for its principles at times of crisis that have expanded freedom. Expanding the right to vote for all Americans regardless of race or sex and to expand it to those from age 18 is such an example. But it is politicans who use soldiers as pawns to fight for whatever the politicans whims, so that soldiers are forgetting their true purpose. Unfortunately it leaves soldiers fighting for symbols like the flag, not the truths profoundly written in our Constitution. I know the difference between supporting soldiers needs and burning my own flag in protest against those in power who use soldiers for their own gain. "

    Flag worship...a NO-No to God wrote on Jun 30, 2006 2:15 AM:

    " No false idols, no giving praise to anyone or anything but God. Oh yeah, He loves burnt sacrifices, the sweat aroma. _ Brian G SMith "

    RE: Hey Oliver it ain't hate wrote on Jun 30, 2006 2:12 AM:

    " It's surrender. These are opinion blogs. I have great confidence in my knowledge of Domestic and Global politics. Very few on these blogs have offered any countering facts. A fact is a fact, not an opinion. There are lots of opinions....It's my opinion you and BJ Daoust have personal issues. Your concern for my High School locker room experiences is nothing short of creepy (I started for the North squad in the 1983 Shrine Bowl). I never received a wedgie or 'swirlie' in any school and I would stop anyone from doing it to anyone else. _Brian G SMith "

    Dear DJ Jaoust wrote on Jun 30, 2006 2:05 AM:

    " I'm worried about you. These are simple blogs, not hard to type out a few posts in a sitting. If I "dominate" anything it has been a domination of facts. Not a single one of you from the Bush is god wing can answer me what did Bush do about the USS Cole? Why did Bush rescind(maybe that word is to hard for you?) economic sanctions Clinton had placed on the Taliban? What was Bush thinking giving the Taliban $43 million in May 2001 for their help in the war on drugs? These are facts and questions....unanswered. Doing so would hurt yourselves, wouldn't it. - Brian G Smith "

    Brian G Smith wrote on Jun 30, 2006 1:56 AM:

    " I gather from the couple of doo-dahs 'getting off' guesstimating my high school experiences with name calling, etc...that I have buried them, crushing what tiny logic and poorly thought out opinions they tried to utter. My first post on this blog simply told those who even read these things that Bush had already revealed what the NYTimes revealed a few days back. I also posted a direct link to the White House's own website with a speech Bush made on Sept. 14th, 2001...where Bush revealed what the Times just revealed. I then get insulted. Ah, the sweet sound of victory. - BGS "

    Darral Faas wrote on Jun 30, 2006 1:44 AM:

    " To Willie: Soldiers, like elected officals and judges take an oath to defend the CONSTITUTION of the United States, not the flag. The flag is merely a changing symbol. We cannot own the Constitution, only a mere copy. We can own the American flag. You see the flag in battle as your symbol while fighting. I see it as a symbol of expression to be used by all who owns or sees it. The flag reminds you of your oath and the people you promised to uphold it for. And while you have the right to be cremated upon death, so does the American flag by its rightful owner, anytime and for whatever reason expressed by its owner. And calling me pathetic reflects poorly on your being a soldier just because I don't see the world the way you do. "

    Dear Liberal Conspiracies wrote on Jun 30, 2006 1:43 AM:

    " If an attack occurs blame the folks in charge.....your inept conservatives. Conservatives have been in control for over 5 years. Hey, did you know that liberating a people is a LIBERAL action? Same with Nation Building.....you nutcases were blowing neck veins when Clinton sent some troops to oversee the Baltic States....decrying nation building as a bleeding heart liberal pipedream. Now look at ya'll, pusing Nation building as a conservative ideal.....your absurdity is almost overwhelming. - Brian G SMith "

    Boom if we don't change things soon wrote on Jun 30, 2006 1:16 AM:

    " Spreading fear is a lousy way to justify the current admin policies - on wire taps, illegal detention, torture, etc. Let's scare people into peace. The next big stick might come from? Korea will have fallout carried to the US in the jet stream right over our food belt. This macho brained politics is not making it. A wrong decision of show of power - means we all die. Some quickly and some very slowly. Our children are at stake. Is their life worth finding peace? Please, before it is too late! "

    To BOOM wrote on Jun 29, 2006 11:18 PM:

    " Hush now. Be assured there will not be a nuclear attack (no, not even by us). We are globally interdependent (although, admittedly the playing field has shifted in a relatively small amount of time, in a dire direction). Spreading fear is a lousy way to criticize the current admin policies, whether you agree with them or not. Cathy Fischer "

    BOOM - too late, no planet anymore! wrote on Jun 29, 2006 10:20 PM:

    " WW-III is soon. Do you have your a-bomb shelter packed for the next 40 years after the radiation gets here? Think this out people. Bush is playing "chicken" with countries using nukes as the "manly" thing as to who has more testosterone in them. Wake up before this cowboy mentality of his starts the LAST war we will ever see on this planet. This is not a gunfight at the ok corral! BOOM - too late, no planet no more! "

    To Willie and all soldiers!!!!!!!!! wrote on Jun 29, 2006 8:56 PM:

    " Good people sleep peacefully in their bed at night only because rough men stand ready to do violence on their behalf. The negative people just don't appreciate it! KMW "

    CALM IN THE STORM wrote on Jun 29, 2006 8:48 PM:

    " It would seem that the issue that isn't being addressed is whether the government should have free reign to: monitor our bank accounts, our internet usage, our international phone calls, and our library cards, all in the name of national security. We are losing our freedoms, our civil liberties, our right to privacy and we are losing them to our own government. We are American citizens and shouldn't have to worry about our own government watching us without court approval. If you really think they are only monitoring people that they can show are terrorists, you are naive. Nixon thought that the Watergate break in was in the name of national security too. Thanks to the Washington Post, we found out the truth. The Nixon Administration did everything they could to discredit the Post much like is happening now. "

    Re: Proper flag care and etiquette. wrote on Jun 29, 2006 8:47 PM:

    " Wow! Does that mean if somebody burns a torn flag that they get a pass on the proposed Constitutional amendment? Got to read the fine print. Yes, it's the proposed anti-flag burning proposed Constitutional amendment again. Must be an election coming up and the Right Wingers are trying to make points with the electorate with the most important issue of our time. Who would have thunk it? What's next--an anti gay marriage Constitutional amendment? I wonder if George Bush has ever read the U.S. Constitution? Does he read anything? "

    Willie wrote on Jun 29, 2006 8:42 PM:

    " That is the problem with the state of devisiveness in this country. There is no respect only looking out for one's own self interests. If this trend continues this country will go to hell in a hand basket. Some already think it has. Liberals seem to think their alternative view on the world is the only correct one and that the rest of us follow our leaders like sheep. I personally don't support Bush in everything, but I don't have my head in the clouds when it comes to Iraq and patriotic issues. I try see things for what they are and don't dwell on the past (revisionist history). "

    Willie wrote on Jun 29, 2006 8:27 PM:

    " You who responded negatively to me have only proven a point: desecrating the flag and what it stands for IS a slap in the face. Especially those who slammed soldiers in their postings. You are the same type of people who spit in Vietnam vets faces. Quit trying to pretend you are looking out for the soldier when you protest the government. You are merely looking out for your petty self interests. Paranoia that protecting the flag from desecration is somehow infringing on your personal freedoms. Please desist from feigning patriotism when it is obvious that you don't pay attention to the national anthem. "The rockets red glare, the bombs bursting in air, gave proof through the night, that our flag was still there!" Thats why we don't desecrate the flag by burning it. Get a clue and do me a favor: Stop pretending you support us troops! "

    Here you go... wrote on Jun 29, 2006 8:02 PM:

    " So if I take a pillow case and paint 12 red and white stripes and 49 stars on it and then burn it, will I be in trouble? Technically it's not a flag but says the same thing to an audience. What do you conservative nutjobs think? "

    Jay wrote on Jun 29, 2006 8:02 PM:

    " Liberal Blindness: It's ok to burn the U.S. flag...but not to disrespect the Koran GOP scare tactics about another terror attack are rediculous...but liberal scare tactics about global warming are "a serious issue" It's A-OK to kill a living being (abortion).....but even THINKING about displacing a few wild animals (Alaska oil drilling) is a horrendous thought -Readjust your thinking caps! "

    To Grammar Cop again wrote on Jun 29, 2006 8:00 PM:

    " You couldn't be more wrong with your stats. It's exactly the opposite. The more educated you are the more likely you are to vote republican. Please site a source and quit making up statistics. It's true what they say...show me a conservative before the age of 20 and I'll show you someone with no heart. Show me a liberal after the age of 30 and I'll show you someone with no brain. "

    To:Grammar Cop wrote on Jun 29, 2006 7:31 PM:

    " Why do you think there was confusion? 3-1 in favor of Republicans is pretty self-explanatory. It means of every 4 college grads, 3 vote republican and only 1 votes democrat. Actually, I don't think that says much anyway. The Democrats could make the arguement that the "1" is simply much more intelligent than the other 3. It means nothing. However, that study aside, Republicans tend to be more intelligent than Democrats. Since I am a Democrat, that doesn't make me happy, even though I realize the smartest Democrats MAY be more intelligent than the dumbest Republicans(but probably not). "

    To:Oliver wrote on Jun 29, 2006 7:10 PM:

    " Your reply to "substantive" did not address the meat of the issue he brought up. He was trying to make the point that just because you don't vote your own self-interest doesn't mean those issues are not important. Obviously, abortion does not directly affect any of us since we are already born. If someone who was not a Jew in WWII voted for Hitler because of his fiscally sound policies or foreign policy because they were not a Jew, so that pesky racial cleansing policy did not affect them, I don't think you could fault them for not voting their interest. A society that doesn't protect its most vulnerable members is worthless. And instead of worrying what the protesters look like outside the abortion clinic near you, you might worry about the atrocities commited inside those walls. "

    Hey Oliver, it aint hate wrote on Jun 29, 2006 7:00 PM:

    " I don't hate Brian Smith. I wouldn't waste my time and energy on hating someone I don't know. I just disagree with him and his pious tone. Many people have already showed Brian different facts, but he refuses to see it. He thinks, that unless he calls it a fact, then it just aint so. Once he showed that, it then becomes a waste of time to try to convince him that his "facts" are wrong. If Brian would look at some of the humor directed him, he might learn how to better present his case. As it is, his posts are so over the top, most of the time, that they just are too funny to pass up. I really don't want Brian to leave this forum, it would be pretty dull without his pompasity. "

    Oingo wrote on Jun 29, 2006 6:15 PM:

    " I dont condone it but burning a flag is just burning a piece of cloth. Sure its got stars and stripes that represent this great land, but if I burned a pillowcase, would I be breaking the law? Put some color on it and I am I guess. If idiots have to burn the flag,let them. Just make them clean up the ashes. I think there are far more important issues to be taking care of... "

    Words of Wisdome wrote on Jun 29, 2006 5:55 PM:

    " "The trouble with our liberal friends is not that they're ignorant: It's just that they know so much that isn't so." - Ronald Reagan "

    Sick Of Libs And Cons wrote on Jun 29, 2006 5:47 PM:

    " Some of you people really need to grow up. You contribute nothing to any discussion on the La Crosse Tribune website. All you do is mock and taunt others, and all because they don't agree with you. Perhaps your mommies should take away your computers until you start acting like adults. "

    Grammar Cop again wrote on Jun 29, 2006 5:46 PM:

    " That was college grads vote 3-1 in favor of Democrats. sorry for any confusion and among you Republicans, I am sure there was much. "

    Grammer cop, you seem confused, wrote on Jun 29, 2006 5:43 PM:

    " you posted, "Generally people who respect diversity and want o make the world a better place vote Democratic. Bigots, racists, homophobes and facists vote Republcan." That statement alone shows that you are the bigot (one intolerantly devoted to his own opinions and PREJUDICE)and prejudiced (preconcieved judgement or opinion or irrational attitude of hostility directed against an individual or group or their supposed characteristics). Your assumption that Republicans want to make the world a worse place, hate other races, and want a dictatorial government, is simply fear mongering and prejudicial. In your heart, you may think that your party does more to help people, but history shows otherwise. "

    To: The up side for smokers, in the continuation of flag burning.... wrote on Jun 29, 2006 5:29 PM:

    " Don't be a nit. It's illegal to burn things in public places, including flags, because it is a health (life) hazard (I can't start burning some old pants in the mall, or a bar). Funny how smoking is still allowed in some places though... "

    Hey Grammer Cop wrote on Jun 29, 2006 5:21 PM:

    " Since you're so enlightened politically can you tell me what this law means?.....*Wisconsin Statute 12.11(1) defines ‘election bribery’ as “…any amount of money, OR any object which has utility independent of any political message it contains and the value of which exceeds $1.00 "

    Brian Smith's alias's wrote on Jun 29, 2006 5:00 PM:

    " Cage fighter....LOL!!!! I almost spewed coffee onto my screen at that one. His self bio has him as a High School wrestler, D-1AA football player, boxer, and Manhattan condo owner. With those creds, I'm suprised anyone can stand up to such superman. Oh no, what if Brian is really an alias for.....................Chuck Norris!!!Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh run away!!!! "

    Paul R. Nelson... the latest republican notjob wrote on Jun 29, 2006 4:48 PM:

    " Bush bragged about what the Times reported on for years. This is just more "blame the media" tactic by yet another Bush apologist. Well sorry Paul, we really don't want to add to the list of "rubber stamp Republicans." Hey, maybe you and Mark Neumann could get together and discuss campaign strategery. I hear he's got a lot of time on his hands of late. "

    To the Brian G. Smith haters wrote on Jun 29, 2006 4:40 PM:

    " Thanks for conceding that his posts "dominate" this board. And resorting to personal attacks exposes both your inability to attack his assertions with any (I'll say it again) substantive arguments as well as your fear and ignorance. Now be nice and try to back up your positions with something besides slogans already. -Oliver "

    Future generations wrote on Jun 29, 2006 4:38 PM:

    " One good thing that come from today's Republican party is the shame that future generations will have in regard to it. The party will historically be seen as an embarrassment. Kids today are sharp and they certainly don't buy into this hate-filled party. I am not saying they will Democrats either but the GOP we know today is definitely on a downswing. Kind of ironic that if it weren't for all the old people, the GOP would have no power and yet the party keeps cutting their medical needs. "

    Grammar Cop here... wrote on Jun 29, 2006 4:34 PM:

    " I was just trying to point out that you are a pawn in a game. The Republicans pander to poor uneducated people with abortion, gay marriage, flag burning, etc. and you buy right into it. Start voting your interest is all I am saying. I don't understnd why uneducated people are so quick to go along with the Republican rhetoric. I think it speaks volumes that college graduates vote 3-1 in favor of Republicans. Generally people who respect diversity and want o make the world a better place vote Democratic. Bigots, racists, homophobes and facists vote Republcan. And the extremely wealthy also vote Republcan because they get to screwing the people who vote for them. "

    Republicans are pawns? wrote on Jun 29, 2006 4:27 PM:

    " Give me a break! Republicans give thoughtful consideration to ideas and generate solutions based on facts. It is the Democrats who are training robots with knee-jerk, emotional reactions and never providing solutions. Republicans happen to believe in the traditions of this nation and upholding things like respect for the flag. Democrats are the ones who attempt to tear down all of those traditions in their effort to create a socialist utopia. "

    To DJ Daoust wrote on Jun 29, 2006 4:05 PM:

    " I think you can add to the list of crimes committed against Brian "Gee I sure am a Liberal" Smith...I'm sure he also seen his daily share of Wedgies, swirles, and nuggies. He's also the type that has an Internet screen name of "Cage Fighter" or "Delta Force" to impress the ladies in the chat-rooms. Brian is a small weak man who tries to make up for his shortcomings by dominating a blog. "

    Was anyone surprised wrote on Jun 29, 2006 4:05 PM:

    " to hear about the money tracking thing? I wasn't at all. Mr Bush and his cohorts find nothing sacred. But it doesn't affect me because I haven't got big bucks to be wiring here there and everywhere. I have to pay for a war, for illegal immigrants, gas for my car, taxes, and for shelter. I just don't have enough left to wire it to the Caymen Islands. I can't get my hands into my pocket because George's is in there. Who's to say the terrorist cells have any large ammts to be transfering it all over the world? If I was incorporated, I might get nervous. But if I was a terrorist, I would not be afraid because GWB is too busy justifying an unjust war to come get me. "

    To John Mitchel wrote on Jun 29, 2006 3:57 PM:

    " If you are running, I'll vote for you. We are no longer the minority, John. Mr. Bush has an approval rating dipping down to the 20s and I couldn't be happier. He tries to divert everyone's attention to non-issues in order to continue to deplete this great Nation's resources....natural, monetary, relationships with other nations....all of it is going up in smoke. Who would know one man could do so much harm to such a great Nation? As long as the simple doughheads out there eat his line of bull, he will get away with it and come out with bulging pockets and death and destruction in his wake. And he does it in the name of Patriotism?? The people of this Nation mean nothing to him, or his buddies, or his Party. "

    To grammer cop, wrote on Jun 29, 2006 3:55 PM:

    " Your hate-filled "educated" bigotry demonstrates the ugly core of the Democratic party. Spelling errors on an on-line discussion board, "prove" to you that I am "clueless" and "will never be successful in life." Talk about prejudging people..Wow, you take the cake! Since you define having a "clue" and "success" as being a rich Democrat, then you are right, I will be neither rich, nor a Democrat. You throw out the "baby with the bath water" though, when you dismiss my post with spelling errors. Your problem is that you seem to want to avoid work and see it as a "hole" you don't want to be "stuck in." That is another interesting insight into the Democratic mind. BTW, I thank God every day for the success that He has given to me. "

    To Al C.: wrote on Jun 29, 2006 3:40 PM:

    " So, if actions (regardless of what those actions are) are not speech and therefore are not protected by the 1st Amendment, then you do not have the right to dress as you wish, or drive what ever car you want to, or eat the foods that suit you best, or wear your hair as you choose....the list is endless here, Al. You can't pick and choose. It would please me if the flag burners would wrap themselves up in it first, but they have the right to do it. No, it's not right, but it is a right. "

    Andrew Nelson wrote on Jun 29, 2006 3:36 PM:

    " My grandfather, my hero, fought for the USA in Korea and to have the burning of a flag not be illegal is making him turn in his grave. Every soldier from the USA is fighting with one thing in common, the Stars and Stripes. We know not everyone wants to go to war and many are against it, but for people to have an opportunity to burn the Flag makes me sick. When I see people in foreign countries burning our beloved flag, I almost want to cry. I would honestly have a rough time not taking the law into my own hands should I see someone in my town burning the Stars and Stripes. I hope everyone else feels the same way. Both Liberals and Republicans. We should at least have this in common. "

    To "Substantive" wrote on Jun 29, 2006 3:29 PM:

    " You aren't quite grasping what I mean by "substantive." The issues I listed as red herrings are those that appeal to emotions and are very divisive, but do not really affect the majority of Americans. For example, I live near an abortion clinic, and the nut jobs out there with 20 foot pictures of aborted fetuses never look like they might be faced with such a difficult decision themselves. Instead, they look like, well, old white men who might benefit from better health care coverage, more "secure" social security, and (god knows) a better education. - Oliver "

    free speech wrote on Jun 29, 2006 3:13 PM:

    " American Flag burning is not free speech. We Pledge Allegiance to the FLAG of the United States of America,. . . the flag is more than a symbol. It should be respected and if you hate this country so much that you are willing to burn it's Flag, I suggest you move to another country. "

    The up side for smokers, in the continuation of flag burning.... wrote on Jun 29, 2006 3:00 PM:

    " Since the act of burning is considered "free speech," smokers may now smoke in public places to protest the bans on smoking in public places. If someone tries to prevent the smokers from protesting, they would violate the smokers right to "free speech." Thank you founding fathers for seeing that smoking will continue through the ages by protecting it through the "free speech" clause. (Those men were geniuses.) "

    To Paul Nelson wrote on Jun 29, 2006 2:52 PM:

    " I liken your odds to those of the Washington Generals. For those of you not familiar with the Generals; they are the team that loses to the Harlem Globetrotters every night. "

    Its sort of funny... wrote on Jun 29, 2006 2:45 PM:

    " I never really considered burning the U.S. Flag. But since its sucha big ordeal now I almost feel like burning one now. Crap! I better hurry up and do it before it's unconstitutional. Ha! I just realized it'd be unconstitutional not illegal! "

    Substantive? wrote on Jun 29, 2006 2:43 PM:

    " Abortion is not a substantive issue? Wow. The numbers alone show otherwise. Without the right to life, every single other issue you listed is meaningless. I am an independent voter-I don't vote along party lines(If I do-mainly Libertarian) A Republican MAY get my vote over a Democrat just because of what I stated above-if your party platform won't even guarantee a right to life, anything else you stand for is meaningless. If Hitler had a great plan to balance the budget, and his foreign policy was brilliant, I would still never vote for him. "

    To: It is the soldier... wrote on Jun 29, 2006 2:33 PM:

    " No. It is the people. "

    Proper flag care and etiquette. wrote on Jun 29, 2006 2:31 PM:

    " Section 8k of the Flag Code states, "The flag, when it is in such condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem for display, should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning." So does that mean we throw out this bit of the flag code or do we still have gray space because we need to determine the intent of the flag burning? "

    Re: Is MIlitary worse then college? wrote on Jun 29, 2006 2:31 PM:

    " Great letter. You proved his point. Try "than" and not "then." Colleges have "cliques" and not "cliches." You are a "cliche." And lastly, "definitely" and not "definately." Not to play the grammar police but this is why you are clueless. This is why you will never be successful in life. You will work into old age and your children will be stuck in the same hole. Education and opportunity are the key and Republicans are not for either unless you are wealthy or can help them in some way. I wish you poor fools could see this party doesn't care about you. You are pawns in a game that allows them to pay less taxes and take more of your money. "

    Re: Willie wrote on Jun 29, 2006 2:30 PM:

    " Thank you for your service. I appreciate it and agree with your atatement. "

    Patriot to "if it's not a big deal" wrote on Jun 29, 2006 2:29 PM:

    " To answer your question. It might be that the largest interest in keeping it a secret is criticism might be leveled against it as an unconstitutional fishing expedition; not that it informs terrorists that their transactions may be being monitored. Does anyone believe that such people do not already operate under the assumption that all activities invloving info-tech are possibly being monitored for them? If so please come back to earth. Use your smarts and carefuly think it through. "

    Re: To: Al Supporters are ignorant, wrote on Jun 29, 2006 2:19 PM:

    " I think he made a great point. I cannot understand why all of you poor slobs working long days at unfulfilling jobs vote Republican. All they do is fire you up with their bigotry, patriotism, and religion and then do nothing once in office to help you. It sure isn't Democrats who are responsible for the loss of good paying manuacturing jobs in this country. Republicans want a service based econmy where you chumps work for $10/ hour and never get ahead. "

    If it's not big deal... wrote on Jun 29, 2006 2:15 PM:

    " ...then why did so many Democrats, Republicans, and intelligence professionals try to convince the Times not to print the story? Nearly everyone in government thought this would harm our fight against the terrorists. What makes you and the Times so much better than all of them? "

    What four other countries ban(ned) their own flag burning??? wrote on Jun 29, 2006 2:12 PM:

    " Cuba, China, Iran, and Saddam's Iraq. "

    Is Military worse then college? wrote on Jun 29, 2006 2:10 PM:

    " Do I have a degree? No. Do I have student loans to pay off? No. Have I been around the US and the World? Yes. Does visiting Italy, teach you more then reading about it in class? I don't know, but it's definately real to me, now. Have I met a wide variety of people from diverse places? Yes, and I would add that you have to intermingle, unlike college where cliches still exist. Am I stuck in a dead end factory job? No. I make over $60,000 a year. Can you take college classes in the Military? Yes, and they are paid for. Is the military worse then college? Not for most, not for me. "

    I think I'm going to throw up... wrote on Jun 29, 2006 2:08 PM:

    " People! The Constitution's Bill of Rights were written to limit government! I'm all for an amendment that reads like this "The government shall not be allowed to burn the U.S. flag." Ugh... With our current path, and at our current rate, we are destined to lose all that we have, which is less and less everyday. "

    To:DJ Daoust wrote on Jun 29, 2006 1:27 PM:

    " While his attitude is the same as those who wish to extract revenge for bad HS days, his is a different profile. He excelled in HS, but was either ignored by conservative parents or overly praised by liberal ones. His hatred for all things Bush stems from his acceptance into the liberal elite, probably in college. The beauty of Brian Smith is his superiority complex. He thinks so highly of himself, that he fails to see his pompasity. Because of this, he will never admit being wrong, even if it meant death. Because to admit that he was falible is worse to him then death. To change one opinion of his would cause his whole world ideology to come crashing down, and he won't allow that. "

    Patriot wrote on Jun 29, 2006 1:24 PM:

    " Flag burning should be considered protected under the 1st ammendment. The 1st ammendment protects the right to express unpopular ideas as well as the popular. That being said, if the burning poses a danger or is prohibited in an area based on the part of it that involves lighting something on fire (regardless if a flag, a painting or whatever), then it shouldn't be allowed in those situations for that reason. It should never be prohibited because people don't like the message of the symbolism. Anyone so intolerant of other views or is so insecure that they want to ban it are the true un-americans. "

    It is the soldier who... wrote on Jun 29, 2006 1:18 PM:

    " It is the soldier, not the reporter, who has given us freedom of the press. 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 the 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, and whose coffin is draped by the flag, who allows the protester to burn the flag.... Honor the soldiers, don't burn the flag. "

    Lori wrote on Jun 29, 2006 1:08 PM:

    " Yes, 4 flag burnings last year. Up from 3 the year before. But always a hot topic when elections are coming up, eh? Burning the flag is supposd to remind us that government exists to serve the people, not rule the people. Flag burning is a patriotic expression of challenge to the government when it becomes a threat to its people and the freedoms and ideals under which this country was founded. We are guaranteed the freedom to criticize our government if we want to -- that's what makes us free. We would do well to remember that when someone burns a flag, they are not criticizing the ideals and freedoms under which this country was founded, but rather upholding them by criticizing a government which would remove or alter our ideals and freedoms (most flag burnings are in protest to flag burning bans). "

    re: Willie wrote on Jun 29, 2006 12:57 PM:

    " Thank you for your service to fight for all of us "pathetic" American citizens. That's just great that you fought to stifle our freedom of opinion AND speech... Thankfully, not everyone in this country agrees with your definition of what a soldier is and what a true American is. Standing up against our administration is a RIGHT given to us. We are NOT supposed to be living under a dictatorship. "

    Don't you see? wrote on Jun 29, 2006 12:53 PM:

    " YOU ARE BEING MANIPULTED! Republicans use red-herring issues like flag burning, gay marriage, immigration, and abortion (there. I said it.) to distract you from all the SUBSTANTIVE issues that actually effect you in real and tangible ways. The working class is being fooled into believing that the republican causes are what are really important, meanwhile getting the screw in the form of low wages, misuse of public funds, lack of affordable health care, and serving in an unjust war against an unseen concept. - Oliver "

    Don't you see? wrote on Jun 29, 2006 12:46 PM:

    " Right-wingers are being manipulated. Republicans use red-herring issues like flag burning, gay marriage, and immigration to distract you from all the SUBSTANTIVE "

    To: Al supporters are ignorant, wrote on Jun 29, 2006 12:43 PM:

    " Your statements show that you are a prejudiced bigot. If you don't believe me, look up the definitions of the words. You categorize conservatives/republicans in hate filled rhetoric. Of course that would require some mental exercise, which I see you oppose. I have figured out why burning the American flag is so important to the Liberals....You don't need to form a cognizant argument for your cause...all you have to know is how to light a match. "

    Waffling wrote on Jun 29, 2006 12:35 PM:

    " I admit-I go back and forth on the flag-burning issue. I do agree that Freedom of Expression is useless if you slowly chip away at it everytime someone is offended. However, everyone knows free speech is not absolute nor ever has been. I could probably be convinced by a strong arguement on either side. Mr Kennedy, Oxymoron, and Willie make an excellent case. Why doesn't someone address their points? Admit it-it doesn't seem right to burn Freedom of Expression(1 of the things the flag stands for) then cry Freedom of Expression to defend your right to do so. You can't have it both ways. You need to make a choice. "

    Hey Willie wrote on Jun 29, 2006 12:29 PM:

    " So are saying that you are supporting troops by blinding following the President? Makes sense..I want them to come home and live and you want them to stay as occupiers of a foreign land and die. How are you the supporter? "

    To Willie wrote on Jun 29, 2006 12:27 PM:

    " You are clueless. We get it...you fought in the war, blah, blah, blah. The flag means different things to different people. We don't need a Constitutional Amendment to protect a piece of cloth. Why not deal with something important? There are number of pressing issues currently in the U.S. Flag burning is not one. I hate listening to you Vets complain about your service. No one forced you to serve and you get a ton of benefits from your service. So, move on. "

    Willie wrote on Jun 29, 2006 11:47 AM:

    " Darral Faas, flag burning may be free speech to you, but it is a slap in the face of every veteran who has put their life on the line to defend it, the nation it represents, and the spirit of freedom it envokes in the people. In fact, it represents your beloved freedom of speech as well. You and other liberals claim you are the voice of the people and that you support troops by questioning the governments policies. Talk about hipocracy! If it wasn't for the flag you desecrate, you wouldn't even have the right to desecrate it in the first place. Do us soldiers and veterans a favor: Don't claim you support us when you really don't. You sir are a pathetic excuse of an American citizen. "

    Dear Democrats wrote on Jun 29, 2006 11:44 AM:

    " Bashing Bush is not a policy to defeat terrorism. The working people know this and you will once again be left out on the fringe when they speak in November. "

    "Speech" includes many freedoms wrote on Jun 29, 2006 11:28 AM:

    " "Speech" can be interpreted as oral as well as visual communications. Newspapers, magazines, and books have freedom of speech to print. If someone holds up a sign in protest, but says nothing, it is still freedom of speech. You may not like or agree with it, but it is still one of this country's fundamental freedoms... if that is taken away from us by our own leaders, the terrorists win. "

    Folks like me... wrote on Jun 29, 2006 11:25 AM:

    " ...picked up a gun and fought the British to free our nation while folks like you sidled up to the British troops and proclaimed, "Can't we all just get along?" Folks like me proclaimed the evil of Adolf Hitler during the early '30s while folks like you attempted to sign treaties with him. Folks like me admired Ronald Reagan for proclaiming that the Soviet Union was an evil empire while folks like you wrung your hands and said we should be more polite and negotiate with evil. "

    Bush Revealed Banking Surveillance Sept. 14, 2001 wrote on Jun 29, 2006 10:57 AM:

    " Dear treason accusing knuckleheads......your inept leader already exposed the US governments surveillance of terrorist money trails, their freezing, etc....His words and the words of the Sec of Treasurer O'Neill. Please go to the White House's own website and read the headline from Sept. 14, 2001. It reads "President freezes terrorists assets". Bush gives a rambling Rose Garden talk and explains clear enough what the nYTimes just explained. It's also the talk when Bush talked about smoking Al Qaida out of their holes. Here is the address, enjoy___http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2001/09/20010924-4.html - Brian G Smith "

    Flag Desecration wrote on Jun 29, 2006 10:51 AM:

    " Bush and Cheney desecrate the flag every time they stand in front of one....usually in front of dozens. These shameless former CEO failures have damaged the American fabric immensely. Bush's grandaddy laundered money for the Nazi's. Cheney, while Sec. of Defense under Bush's Daddy was the nimrod who made viewing the FLAG-DRAPED coffins of our returning war dead during the first Gulf War (or is it Golf War?). I love the flagrant patriotic soldier loving hypocrisy of the Republican Party. Always lauding our soldiers, now lauding the FLAG, yet they don't say a peep about us not being able to honor our dead soldiers with public viewing of their flag draped coffins. - Brian G Smith "

    Solomon wrote on Jun 29, 2006 10:51 AM:

    " I would like to hear a story from someone from the WWII generation about how revered the flag was back in those days - about what it represented and why that is so important. I would also like to hear from someone from the Vietnam generation (or the modern era) talk about how they feel about the right to free speech and the right to use offensive images in protest of the government. I think we'd find we have a lot more in common than we think. "

    Attack on our Faith wrote on Jun 29, 2006 10:51 AM:

    " But, liberals don't have faith, do they? You are always trying to remove faith from our schools, from our public areas and even from our Christian churches. Liberals have their own faith, founded in the Church of Liberalism. Michael Moore and the ACLU are prominent players in the church. Howard Dean would be considered clergy in the church. The Church of Liberalism strives to separate our Christian God from our society. That's what the liberals are all about. "

    Nonsense in Washington-Flag Buring Amendment wrote on Jun 29, 2006 10:49 AM:

    " Allow me to list a few national problems: the War in Iraq, Social Security, Health care costs spiraling out of control, the price of gas(AKA: lets gouge the people), illegal immigration, our slowing economy, manufacturers moving their factories overseas, continued government corruption on both sides of the aisle, stangant(or declining)wages...and the complete morons in the nations Capital decide to vote on a Flag Buring Amendment. Shocking. Does anyone in here actually think either side is listening to our troubles??? Nope, neither do I. Vote 'em all out of office and let's have a fresh start. "

    DJ Daoust wrote on Jun 29, 2006 10:46 AM:

    " I'm just curious... Do you think that Brian "G" Smith was shoved into a lot of lockers in high school? "

    Al Cagle supporters are ignorant wrote on Jun 29, 2006 10:44 AM:

    " Why don't you people worry about something important like homelessness, poverty, war, etc. instead of gay marriage, flag burning, and illegal immigrants. Republicans are so predictable. They know these are the issues that get the white trash fired up to vote Republican. Why don't you people get some sense and vote your economic interests? Wouldn't it be nice if kids went to college and didn't have to join the ARMY and then become mechanics or factory workers? It can happen--vote with your brains. "

    RE: Flag burning wrote on Jun 29, 2006 10:43 AM:

    " What were there....a total of four flag burnings lst year? Why don't we go after more serious descration of America by going after our incestuous, corrupt, inept and inneffective Congress and White House? - you know who "

    Re: Al Cagle wrote on Jun 29, 2006 10:41 AM:

    " Al is free to cherish whatever he likes. We just don't need to amend the Constitution every time he is offended. "

    Times Story wrote on Jun 29, 2006 10:39 AM:

    " Once again the conservative diatribe spewed on Faux news pre-empts the facts. Within a year of the 911 attacks the tracking of bank transactions was openly discussed and promoted on both the floor of congress and the UN as a tool to use against terrorists. The world organization that carries out the transactions made no secret of it...all one had to do was ask, and the Times did. And why did only the NY Times take the heat, what about The Wall Street Journal etc. they had the story the same day! Mr. Nelson and the rest of the trecherous bunch have once again pulled one out of their posterior only to make political hay, knowing that their lemmings will not check out the facts!!! "

    Constitution wrote on Jun 29, 2006 10:39 AM:

    " The Constitution is for IMPORTANT things, not every whim you Republicans have. The flag is stupid piece of cloth, most likely made in China. We don't need a Constitutional Amendment to protect it. It makes a mockery of our country when you facists want an amendment for everything you find offensive. You like the flag, dont burn it. Let others do what they want. "

    Oxymoron wrote on Jun 29, 2006 10:26 AM:

    " I agree with Mr. Kennedy. You either appreciate your right to freedom of speech or you don't. If you do-great-no need for you to burn the flag. Everythings kosher. If you don't- and you do burn the flag and are arrested-, then you have nothing to fall back on. Freedom of Expression is 1 of those ideals that you are symbolically burning. "

    to Liberal Conspiracies wrote on Jun 29, 2006 10:08 AM:

    " As far as I am concerned there is already an attack on this nation, on our freedoms, on our principals, on our reputation in the world, on our very constitution and even on our faith and it comes from folks like you!!! "

    Al Cagle opponents are ignorant. wrote on Jun 29, 2006 9:39 AM:

    " Al never advocated a government with autocratic or dictatorial control with forcible oppression of opposition. An amendment to protect the flag in NO WAY stops people from voicing their opposition to the government. As for patriotism, Al will retire from the military in a few years. He understands first hand the cost of freedom, and the freedom represented in the flag. He may disagree with what you say, but he has the commitment to die for your right to say it. Remember, when America came into being, a person could be jailed for speaking out against the king. That is not in danger of returning, by protecting the flag.--R.G. "

    to Paul Nelson wrote on Jun 29, 2006 9:32 AM:

    " Food for thought. The man who trades freedom for security does not deserve, nor will he ever receive, either -Benjamin Franklin YOU are a threat, not only to our national security, but to the "freedom" we hold so dearly. "

    Emily Latella wrote on Jun 29, 2006 9:28 AM:

    " What's all this fuss about flag defacation? Can't they come up with a more traditional way to get their flags?.... Oh..... that's different then..... NEVER MIND! "

    Fascist Relic wrote on Jun 29, 2006 9:21 AM:

    " Wow, so just because we have an opinion that cherishes the traditions of this nation, that makes us fascist relics? Methinks you have lost all decent arguments and have chosen to descend into ad-hominem attacks due to your lack of meaningful things to say. Typical. "

    Yes, after 9/11 Bush did say he was going after terrorist financing. wrote on Jun 29, 2006 9:17 AM:

    " Surprise, surprise! What exactly did the NY Times reveal that any but the most mentally impaired terrorist did not already know? I am also sure that these same terrorists probably already figured out that their calls and communications are being monitored. The best way to stop terrorism in this country is to have paid FBI informants infiltrate their terrorist cells, becoming their leader and guiding them and having them swear an oath to Al Qaeda which they administer. Then the FBI can bust them and we will all be reassured that we are being kept safe from terrorism. "

    Mr. Sena.....You must have forgotten...you quit, remember. wrote on Jun 29, 2006 9:12 AM:

    " A few days ago,the stress of trying to face the truth, overwhelmed you, and you finished your diatribe with your signature..."I quit." That's the problem with you liberals, you don't believe in absolutes, so you waffle back and forth. Ouiting is the best solution for you. I suppose there is one absolute with you, Bush is to blame for everything. "

    Darral Faas wrote on Jun 29, 2006 9:06 AM:

    " To Jake: Why do you keep defending the idiots in the White House? They are the PROBLEM, not the solution. Besides a lack of trust in them because they call the Constitution "just a piece of paper" and the lies on Iraq plus all the backdoor deals to make his contributors rich off the average taxpayer, we have another case of leaking information to the public and using the press as a scapegoat. Its time to rid ourselves of this incompetence. "

    Flag desecration is common. wrote on Jun 29, 2006 9:03 AM:

    " Just drive around the city and see the flags being flown that have holes in them, are torn, or are really nothing more than in condition than a good rag. See how many are improperly displayed. All of these flags are being displayed by people who consider themselves to be "patriots" as an expression of their patriotism. But unfortunately these "patriots" do not feel the need to treat this "sacred symbol" with respect. This same "sacred symbol" that some believe is in such dire need of protection that it requires an amendment to our Constitution. Flag burning is uncommon and is also a matter of expression, but at least it is being done for a reason. What is the reason or excuse for those who regularly neglect and show disrespect for the flag by carelessly displaying it in order to express their patriotism? "

    Why does Al Cagle hate freedom? wrote on Jun 29, 2006 9:01 AM:

    " I think he must be unpatriotic. Why is it every time an election year is near you Republicans come out with flag burning and gay marriage? Possibly to get people to vote for you that have no economic interest in doing so. What gets me is that Republicans get these votes and then continually screw them after the elections. Republicans in charge don't care about hard working blue collar people. Too bad they are not smart to figre it out. "

    Media exposed Nixon wrote on Jun 29, 2006 8:58 AM:

    " But this was the same media who exposed Nixon and other attrocites like the Iran scandal. So quickly we forget that governments have no problems in doing things illegal. The only reason Bush is upset is because he knows his skeletons and dirty laundry are starting to come into view. Watch, the best of the scandals coming from Bush will put the illegal phone taps and the Downing St Memos to shame in comparison. The world sees Hitler and Bush as the same mentality, they do remember WW-II. Bush = WWW-III "

    Cherry Picking Intelligence?! wrote on Jun 29, 2006 8:56 AM:

    " How about Ron Kind voting for the resolution to go to war? IMPEACH KIND! "

    Liberal Conspiracies wrote on Jun 29, 2006 8:54 AM:

    " You liberals have really got to grow up. Your conspiracy theories are getting incredibly irresponsible and one of these days there will be an attack on this nation and I, for one, will blame every one of you for it. Your actions are begging for the murder of more Americans. Grow up, accept the fact that you lost, and let the President do his job of protecting us against terrorists. And if you have a cell phone, you should know that the CIA, NSA, and the super secret hidden shadow intelligence agency can track your liberal movements even when you don't have it in your possession. I suspect someone in liberal la-la land will believe that... "

    To Al Cagle wrote on Jun 29, 2006 8:54 AM:

    " You are a relic and a facist. Flag burning is "symbolic speech" and you know it is. If the act didn't "say" something to you, you wouldn't care. Frankly, you need to get over yourself. It is a piece of cloth with stars and stripes on it, not the original Constitution. Moreover, if you are so concerned about the flag, why don't you have a problem with people who wear flag ties and patches on their jeans, etc. Proper flag cod would also ban those things. You super patriots are so bizarre. You are the people who would be upporting the Taliban if you were born in those countries. Your Nationalism is ridiculous. "

    More misdirection. wrote on Jun 29, 2006 8:44 AM:

    " Yes, with the problems in this country with the Iraq war and illegal immigration the really important issues that are so great that they require amending our Constitution are flag burning and gay marriage. Yes, flag burning is such a plague in this country that it needs a Constitutional Amendment. By the way, when is the last time anybody heard of an American flag being burned? Flag burning is free expression and is done as a statement whether others agree with it or not. Making it a violation of the Constitution only brings more attention and publicity to the act. Then again, who knows more about violating the Constitution of the United States than George Bush? "

    Indefensible wrote on Jun 29, 2006 8:44 AM:

    " What the Times did was indefensible and I want to thank Mr. Nelson for his letter. Well done! It's unfortunate the people like Darral Faas feel the need to defend the indefensible. He's uses the Liberal tool of moral relevance to try and trick readers into believing that everyone does it. The truth is that the Times committed treason. What they have done could very well cost American lives. The Valerie Plame case has been well documented to show that she was not undercover or in a position where her life was at risk. Apples and oranges Darral. "

    Mr Kennedy wrote on Jun 29, 2006 8:41 AM:

    " Does anyone else see a contradiction? You are burning the flag of this country-in essence desecrating everything this country stands for,including it's many rights and freedoms. Yet at the same time you are citing 1 of these rights as a basis to allow you the freedom to do so. This is beyond hypocritical! I am certainly not 1 to advocate more Government and more laws-but come on! If you hate this countries rights and freedoms so much-sorry, but you should not be able to only fall back on those same rights and freedoms when it suits you. "

    Treason? wrote on Jun 29, 2006 7:31 AM:

    " How about GW lying to Congress and cherry-picking intelligence? GW is the biggest threat ever to U.S. security. Those that don't think so no doubt believe Nixon's only fault was that he got caught. Notice how Paul Nelson calls John Murtha (a decorated Marine) a "radical" -- typical right-wing smear tactic. We don't need Paul Nelson representing Western Wisconsin! I'll take Murtha over Nelson any day! To hell with Nelson and to hell with the war! "

    oz wrote on Jun 29, 2006 7:28 AM:

    " All of you right-wing nut cases are forgetting one inconvenient fact: The Bush regime broke the law, they admit to breaking the law, and they clearly intend to continue breaking the law. They could engage in these activities WITHOUT breaking the law (by going to the super-secret FISA court set up for this purpose), but these thugs seem to find legality, decorum, and simple human decency to be too "inconvenient." They keep pushing us down the slippery slope toward facism, and if facism is what we "need" to prevent terrorism, then the terrorists have won. "

    Al Cagle: Freedom Hater wrote on Jun 29, 2006 7:27 AM:

    " That's the problem with freedom, Al, sometimes people do things that offend you. If we passed constitutional amendments for everything that anyone finds offensive then we wouldn't have very many freedoms left. Why do you hate freedom, Al? I think you are unpatriotic. Hey, if you don't love our freedoms, then you can always leave the country for a place like North Korea, where flag burning is a capital offense. "

    Treason? wrote on Jun 29, 2006 7:23 AM:

    " We keep acting like those who want to terrorize the United States don't know what they're doing unless we tell them in our newspapers. Apparently, they know more than our administration does. If you want to try someone for treason, start with Bush and Cheney. "

    Jake wrote on Jun 29, 2006 7:11 AM:

    " What world do you live in Darral? How can you be that far out there...how can your mind be soo twisted, that everything is the Bush Admin's fault? "

    To Paul Nelson wrote on Jun 29, 2006 7:04 AM:

    " It's amazing that your all concerned about an issue like this when your involved with a local election. I hope when the time comes your just as concerned with bigger issues confronting the people of the coulee region. And just so you know, it is illegal to solicit campaign contributions from corporations in the State of Wisconsin. Be careful. You wouldn't want to lose the election because of scandal would you? "

    Illegal War? wrote on Jun 29, 2006 7:00 AM:

    " We make the rules. The war is legal, because we say it is. We are THE superpower, and it's time the world respects us for that. We're there on a mission, good or bad, that will allow for freedom for a people who seriously want it. If countries don't want to support us, fine. We don't need to continue dishing out trillions in aid to 2/3rds of the world either. "

    Mr. Sena wrote on Jun 29, 2006 6:45 AM:

    " If we are threatened so much by a handful of idiots who burn their flags, then what does that say about us as a nation? It says that we are painfully AFRAID and INSECURE. The very few people who do such childish acts do so in order to gain attention, and now they have been rewarded; they'll be doing it even more now. A constitutional amendment outlawing flag burning is not only unnecessary, but it is also an obvious election year scam. Some Congressmen always dust off the flag issue during election years in order to seduce potential voters. "

    JJ wrote on Jun 29, 2006 6:35 AM:

    " The New York Times did itfor one reason Profit, thats the way we have been taught by our government, make money at ant cost, no matter who gets killed or hurt or breaks the law "

    Re: RE: Paul Nelson wrote on Jun 29, 2006 6:25 AM:

    " Not treason at all, unless you view the illegal program as treason. Is everyone so dense they can't see the smoke screen? It's just to divert attention from yet another ILLEGAL program by the incompetent bush administration. Everytime these programs come out, illegal as they are, they blame the reporters. How about the people who leaked? they are they ones that should be charged, if anyone. Remember the CIA leak? Remember shrubbie yelling he would prosecute whoever leaked the information. Turned out to Chenney. Haven't heard much about prosecution since. Bunch of morons, including anyone who would even attempt to help or justify the illegal activities of the white house. IMPEACH BUSH AND CHENEY. "

    Right on, Al. wrote on Jun 29, 2006 6:17 AM:

    " The libs who love to burn the flag, are the same ones who abstruct building permits, because they MIGHT desecrate a old Indian site. The flag is the symbol of what American's have fought and died for. It is also what drapes the casket of our dead patriots. Burning the flag is the same as desecrating the graves of our brave soldiers, sailors, and airmen. Speaking out against the government is not damaged by protecting the flag. --R.G. "

    Mr F. wrote on Jun 29, 2006 5:54 AM:

    " I have some knowledge of this program in general and what's important here is that alot of money laundering has taken place under the guise of national security. To be clear about it, it would be wise for the nsa to look into the connections with the "sasser" and "netsky" worms of 2003, as they have some connections with the stealing of financial data out of the "bank of korea". If I understand this correctly the money taken out of the bank of korea is partly being used for war propaganda for a war with north korea. But I also have to side with the nsa to a degree here unless the nsa released this information themselves to the newspaper, if that's not the case I would have to agree there's a possiblity there was a breaking of the law here. "

    Daer Paul Nelson wrote on Jun 29, 2006 2:08 AM:

    " If this is the type of politics you plan on eschewing then good riddance....hope your campaign is short and silent. We need independent, here and now, thinkers and voices.....not goosestepping party hacks. I'm quite disappointed. Was hoping for a better choice for a representative of the 3rd other than corporate sell out Kind. - Brian G Smith "

    Brian G SMith wrote on Jun 29, 2006 2:05 AM:

    " Nelson is wrong. The Times reported nothing that Bush himself didn't disclose in the aftermath of 9-11 when he explained the US would follow bank accounts, etc...This is the biggest non news story on earth. I'll have direct quotes tomorrow....but this is nothing but a Red Herring attack, pointless, useless except as a distraction to the sad reality of Bush's ineptness. I prefer a free press over a fascist government anyday. The day when US newspapers have to submit their stories to the US government for approval is the day the second Revolution will begin. - Brian G Smith ( a special shout out to Attorney General Gonzalez) "

    Darral Faas wrote on Jun 29, 2006 1:36 AM:

    " I wish to thank both our Senators for supporting free speech by not voting for this archaic attempt to criminalize flag burning. We should not be using the Constitution to limit our freedoms...we should be expanding them. George Bush and his cronies will do enough to limit our freedoms by spreading their fear tactics. We Americans must stand up to this fear-based propaganda to end it. Now if we could rid ourselves of the Electoral College so we could directly elected the President AND allow our citizens the ability to recall these elected officals plus put their compensation to a national referendum. Now that is the kind of ideas that should be amending the Constitution. Then our votes will matter. "

    Darral Faas wrote on Jun 29, 2006 1:17 AM:

    " To Al Cagle: Sorry, flag burning is free speech. And it is their choice to burn a flag that they personally paid for or received as any gift. The only crime in my opinion is when someone takes a flag that flies on someones elses property thereby not owning it and burns it. That is theft and damage to property. While the flag is a changing symbol, everyone is entitled to do what they want with their own property...sell it, trash it, or destroy it. And that also constitutes free speech. "

    Darral Faas wrote on Jun 29, 2006 1:07 AM:

    " Its unfortunate in the race to be first on any news story that the New York Times published its recent story on intelligence program that monitors foreign financial transactions. The real question should be how did it get its information in the first place? While loose lips sink ships, someone divulged this information to reporters. While I don't see this as a big deal, guess who was so worried about the leak? It was the GOP candidate for Congress. Did his party really care when they exposed a government operative to the press for revenge? The press was right in reporting this information. Its the GOP-fear tactics that continue to alarm me. Are the GOP scared it was violating another law or Constitutional right? A free press simply followed the money trail. If we all did this, we would expose the Iraq mess for what it really is. "

    Poor desicion By Times, Post, etc... wrote on Jun 29, 2006 12:44 AM:

    " What agenda is there to releasing this information and other like information? Maybe seeking to sell a few extra copies, possibly a political agenda, or to assist out enemies? I support free speach, but there is also rational speech. You don't go into a airport and yell BOMB, and there is a potential disastrous consequences of telling out enemies the techniques we're employing to prevent future attacks on American soil. This has nothing to do with controlling the media and restricting free speach, it has more to do with media over-stepping it's role and releasing classified information. "

    RE: Paul Nelson wrote on Jun 29, 2006 12:17 AM:

    " The Times publishing classified information on the war on terror is not just criminal, it is treason. Their extreme bias against this administration has been well known for quite some time, but this goes beyond political propaganda and posturing and endangers American lives. You really have to ask yourself whose side are they on? Thanks for writing this Paul. You have my vote come November! "

    The New York Times wrote on Jun 28, 2006 11:37 PM:

    " might as well call it"The Al-Qaida Times" what a low-life scum of the earth nespaper!!! "


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