By Mike Scinto
Appearing in Kettering-Oakwood Times and Times Community Newspapers
Liberal Democrats in Congress have shown their final act of cowardice; they are taking their fall “campaign” break without facing a decision on one of the biggest points of contention facing this administration, and this session of Congress. The Bush tax cuts expire next year if they don’t receive an extension. To boil it down, the administration wants tax cuts for those who make less than $250,000 a year and Republicans say tax cuts needs to be across the board.
The Bush tax cuts were enacted in 2001 and 2003 and will end, if not extended, on December 31 of this year. Some liberals have said they should expire, Obama wants a new series of cuts for those making under $250,000 and, since most growth comes from investment, job creation and manufacturing from upper income individuals, Republicans see the need to extend those cuts rather than send the economy into an even deeper downward spiral.
Extending the cuts would not be an instantaneous solution to our economic woes but rather would allow for long-term, gradual and steady growth.
What liberals just don’t get is that the tax cuts didn’t drive us into our recession. It was the outrageous and ever-growing entitlement program menu that, rather than encouraging growth and prosperity, encourages more hands sticking out looking for freebies from Uncle Sam; meaning the “deep” pockets of hard-working taxpayers.
Lawmakers owe it to taxpayers (voters) to let them know exactly where they stand BEFORE this crucial election. While we can see a fairly accurate chart of who will vote for what, a real man (or woman) of integrity would let the voters know where they stand without question.
Yes, this Congress’ leadership, Reid and Pelosi, have shown where they stand in the area or honor and integrity; should we have expected more, or less, from these political hacks and their band of hooligans? On the bright side, those of their ilk will be out after the first of the year. On the down side however, how many more of us will be victimized before their departure (and beyond)?
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Keep the Pledge Alive
By Mike Scinto
Appearing in Kettering-Oakwood Times and Times Community Newspapers
“I pledge allegiance to the flag”; that doesn’t mean you worship it as a god. It simply means you support it in all legal ways and are willing to defend it, even with your life. “…..of the United States of America”; that’s self-explanatory.
“….and to the Republic for which it stands”; this is one of the most misunderstood, mislabeled concepts about this county. We are NOT a democracy, we are a republic. There is room for debate over whether or not today a true democracy could or would work, or if the republic is still the best type of government. We do not directly decide on laws but they are decided by our representatives in our state capitols and in Congress.
“……one nation”; even with our divisions, state, political parties and ideologies we are still one nation.
“….under God”; of course ruled unconstitutional by following a charge by an atheist in the liberal 9th District Court in California. It doesn’t mean religion will be shoved down your throat. It doesn’t mean you even have to have a religion. It simply means that the majority of the citizens of this great country believe God is at the helm and has blessed the USA.
“…indivisible”; does that mean we don’t argue, squabble, debate and challenge? Of course it doesn’t. But what it means is, through those challenges, we still come out united and steadfast behind our leaders.
“….with liberty and justice for all”; here’s where some of the greatest descent arises. This doesn’t mean everybody will have the same wealth, or poverty. It doesn’t mean we are “entitled to” handouts from the government. It means that each of us, regardless of race, creed, religion or heritage have the same opportunities; and more than anywhere else in the world. Are we all truly “equal”? Of course we aren’t. But the leveling of the playing field isn’t through laws or edicts. It’s through self-determination, our own good judgment and good old fashioned guts. We also need to have faith in God, and a network of friends and family, to hold us accountable and keep the fire built under us when the flame starts to flicker.
With an attitude of “political correctness” today we need to start our day, every day, at home or at the office reciting this reminder of just how great this nation remains. It isn’t hokey or corny. It is an oath to stand firm for this country that cost millions their lives to protect. God Bless America!
Appearing in Kettering-Oakwood Times and Times Community Newspapers
“I pledge allegiance to the flag”; that doesn’t mean you worship it as a god. It simply means you support it in all legal ways and are willing to defend it, even with your life. “…..of the United States of America”; that’s self-explanatory.
“….and to the Republic for which it stands”; this is one of the most misunderstood, mislabeled concepts about this county. We are NOT a democracy, we are a republic. There is room for debate over whether or not today a true democracy could or would work, or if the republic is still the best type of government. We do not directly decide on laws but they are decided by our representatives in our state capitols and in Congress.
“……one nation”; even with our divisions, state, political parties and ideologies we are still one nation.
“….under God”; of course ruled unconstitutional by following a charge by an atheist in the liberal 9th District Court in California. It doesn’t mean religion will be shoved down your throat. It doesn’t mean you even have to have a religion. It simply means that the majority of the citizens of this great country believe God is at the helm and has blessed the USA.
“…indivisible”; does that mean we don’t argue, squabble, debate and challenge? Of course it doesn’t. But what it means is, through those challenges, we still come out united and steadfast behind our leaders.
“….with liberty and justice for all”; here’s where some of the greatest descent arises. This doesn’t mean everybody will have the same wealth, or poverty. It doesn’t mean we are “entitled to” handouts from the government. It means that each of us, regardless of race, creed, religion or heritage have the same opportunities; and more than anywhere else in the world. Are we all truly “equal”? Of course we aren’t. But the leveling of the playing field isn’t through laws or edicts. It’s through self-determination, our own good judgment and good old fashioned guts. We also need to have faith in God, and a network of friends and family, to hold us accountable and keep the fire built under us when the flame starts to flicker.
With an attitude of “political correctness” today we need to start our day, every day, at home or at the office reciting this reminder of just how great this nation remains. It isn’t hokey or corny. It is an oath to stand firm for this country that cost millions their lives to protect. God Bless America!
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