Our country is in serious trouble, both domestically and internationally.
Yet, those we elect continue to battle one another, seeking a political edge, rather then address the problems which plague our nation.
Whether the subject is education, energy, health care, government oversight, or our security, the political class fails the American people time and again.
The following commentary will address issues which are vital to our nation’s survival. And, for those who do not see the seriousness of the
problems we face, a look to our history will provide clarity.
In order to put our nation on a course which will strengthen us requires
attacking to
This election has triggered my mind to think through my opinion about the two-party system and how it undermines the principles on which our nation was founded. After learning that I am a Republican, this commentary may be at first viewed as “sour grapes”, but indulge me to state my argument.
First, the Republican-led Congress failed to do what it said it would do. It took control in 1994 on a “contract”, with a list, including as a principle, to
rid Congress of corruption. This above all was its greatest failure, and if for no other reason, is enough for them to lose their leadership.
But, this commentary will not be laundry list of Republican failures, these can be found elsewhere.
No, the “laundry list” I will provide is an argument to get Americans to consider defusing the power of the two-party system, which weakens our ability to be an unshackled representative democracy as outlined in our Constitution.
For the more than two-hundred years since our founding Congress has saddled the American people with amendments to the Constitution, and
new laws and regulations as our country has grown. Much of these changes
were necessary as our country’s growth demanded an evolving governing process.
But, Congress has done much more, consuming more and more power over the people who “employ” them. Often going well-beyond “original intent” as laid out by our Founders.
I chose two dramatic changes which were both deliberately avoided when our Constitution was written, and for good reason.
The first was how members of the Senate were chosen, and the second, the Sixteen Amendment, the income tax.
First, Senators were selected by states’ government, not state residents.
This was done to ensure the best interests of state were represented, not citizens, which is role of the House or Representatives, known as “the people’s House” from the very beginning.
This obscure change was major, for it eliminated a carefully defined balance between states and its citizens to one where state interests had little, if any Congressional representation.
Secondly, the income tax. If you ever wondered why the Constitution had
no mention of an income tax, a review of history will provide the answer.
Our Founders knew from their experience as a colony what a burden an individual tax would place on its citizens. And for this reason the money to fund our government would be generated by commerce, not from the citizen.
One final point, since Senatorial elections and the income tax were enacted the two-party system became so powerful, it is almost impossible for either a third party, of an independent to seriously challenge their lock on governing.
Aside from these two examples there are additional problems with the current two-party system.
First and foremost is how we are governed. Under the current system,
the Congressional structure is made up of committees, with the majority party having leadership in each and every committee, not withstanding the credentials of the individual on them. This means the most qualified person may not be the person who chairs a committee, merely the person who receives the most votes, always along party lines.
With this election a major change occurred, one not seen since 1994. Both
houses of Congress would be controlled by the Democrats. This is the accepted reality of how the two-party system governs our country.
The American people know, don’t question it, nor challenge the inenffiencies
In the American media's post-election evaluation little time is being spent understanding how value of the two-party system offer negates any opportunity to provide the American
people the best governing process.
The media, as well as most Americans, who align themselves with the major
political parties do not see, or perhaps ignore the failure of the two-party system.
Only political outsiders, or non-inclusive party members see the fractured nature of governance.
Perhaps, this commentary will introduce evidence to identify how the two-party system has failed the American people.
Let's begin with this week's election results, in which the Democrats regain the majority in both the House and Senate. Think what this changeover actually did.
Friday, December 18, 2009
Journal….Begun September 11, 2001
Journal….Begun September 11, 2001
Sept. 21
We listened to President Bush harken a message not heard in six decades. He called the
American people to arms. With the worst nation tragedy in our history our country is
embarked on a war. One it must win. Not for our nation, but for the entire world.
President received kudos, not only from his partisan fans, but even from those who belittled
him, even personally. But not last night. They rallied to his leadership.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Watching CSPAN I saw the usual suspects, less than twenty-four hours after applauding our
president over thirty times as he delivered a message of the gravest important, the threat to
our nation's security, go about their habit of seeking funds to for domestic purposes.
Additional funds for unemployment insurance, airlines and others impacted by last week's
terrorist attack may need Congressional attention. But money for such support should not
directed until we fully know the direct cost of the recovery.
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Time and again I observe events with the clarity of twenty-twenty hindsight. Most events are so inconsequential, insignificant in the scale of what is truly important.
Well, on Sept. 11, 2001 an event occurred which will be emblazened in our nation's history, forever a
day of national mourning, had me once again look back, and ask myself how did we get here. What
would prompt such a deliberate assault on innocent people going about their daily lives.
As in most cases, there enough blame to go around. A relaxed nation, basking in "domestic tranquility".
A nation lax in security, making certain its citizens don't bring Cuban cigars or foreign plants or fruit
home with them, yet not ensuring the security of the travelling public.
But a nation can be lax, keep its guard down, and still be secure. Such threats don't occur to most
nations. Only hate of the worst kind can bring the results of terrorism inflicted upon the American
people.
As Americans question why others hate us, and target our people, most don’t' look back at the history which brings us to the day when tragedy strikes. And often our attackers are the same we supported.
Yet why?
There is one common denominator that all our attackers possess, the lack of moral fiber. These American enemies only concern is retaining their own power, indoctrinate their people and withhold their freedom.
And often, America's enemies were often our allies, funded and supported by the same American people they now seek to attack.
We cannot make other nations like us, but we can be selective about which regimes we support. We can no longer look to aligning ourselves with the lesser of two evils. True evil can never be measured, only fought.
By choosing one, eventually we will battle both. The Talaban gov't which controls Afghanistan, got its power through support and aid of the United States. We knew what type of regime they were, and how they would govern.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
What our enemies must think……..Anyone who spends as much time as I do watching news programming learns probably too much about what our government is doing, and so do our enemies.
Often, news reports tell the viewing and listening public what government has learned, who is under survailance, where we are looking for them, etc., etc. etc…….
I wonder, how much has the normal, common behavior of gov't, the media and general availability of information benefited those who threatened us?
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Improving the security of air travel………………………….
There can be no silver lining in what occurred in New York and Washington,
only recognition of its lasting impact, improvement to greater protect the
American people.
The airline industry has received much criticism for lax security leading to the
four high-jackings. But airlines, like other businesses should not be saddled
with security of its customers, only their safety. Security is the job of professional
civilian government agencies.
The FAA has been collecting fees, which have been accumulating into the billions.
This money needs to be immediately channeled to security improvements, not
squirreled away as it is.
On the planes………………..
Security can be dramatically improved with the immediate deployment of sky marshals.
Cockpits need to be secured, with inpenatrable cabin doors, and pilots armed to defend
against assault.
Technological improvements to prevent non-authorized personnel from piloting flights,
such as codes required to change pre-determined course.
On the ground………………………
Airlines will no longer be responsible for the hiring and employment of personnel who
screen and check-in travelers.
The FAA should be responsible for all security of flights, from check in of luggage,
identity verification, and goods and cargo stored on aircraft.
Every employee; airport, airline, sub-contractor with access to airlines need to be screened
by government agencies.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sept. 23
A message to the Muslim world.
In the aftermath to the worst tragedy on their shores Americans are told to restrain their emotions, their anger and hostilities towards people of an Arab background. We are told to be tolerant, not all Muslims should be targeted.
Yes, this is absolutely true. Only the monsters who attacked our nation on Sept. 11th should be held accountable, not good people who had nothing to do with these acts.
But, I also pose the same plea to the Arab world, where is your tolerance, your understanding
of what the American people feel?
Madman from the Middle East entered our country, lived amongst us, enjoyed the freedoms
and liberty all citizens enjoy. They were free to worship as they please, participate in whichever endeavor they chose.
American citizens knew them, worked with them, befriended them. Can you blame us for
feeling the way we do? Are we wrong to look at people with similar features in the same way?
As Americans, most of us will be tolerant. But, many of us will be uneasy in your presence.
Many may not want to fly on the same plane boarded by men who look as the terrorists did?
Our nation is at war, not with majority of the good people residing in the Middle East, only those who refuse to use the political and diplomatic means to air grievances. We are at war with zealots,
who hide behind the cloak of religion.
Now is the time for resides of our nation, citizen and alien alike to bond together to kill the terrorist threat.
The over seven million Muslims in our country must become a visible and vocal enemy of terrorism. They must win back the confidence of non-Muslim citizens, all but destroyed by
these monsters of all free and good people.
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And what are we hearing on America's campuses? Our leaders of tomorrow seem more concerned with civilian casualties then bringing to justice terrorists and ending the insanity of their acts.
When the second plane hit the Twin Towers, I knew it was terrorism, and immediately said, "We are at war.'" This phase is more than words, wars have occurred through the ages, and civilians will be killed. Civilians like the 7000 who went about their business on a normal Tuesday morning.
The young men
including those we label terrorists. Is this the manner in which civilized people behave?
.Sept. 27th
WaggingWar:
Americans of all ages wondered learned quickly how this generation would handle adversity.
After the Sept. 11 deliberate high-jacking and crashing of four jetliners, causing the death of
over 7000, we saw the commitment of most Americans to stand tall, grieve with the survivors
and support the president's goal to track down and destroy the network behind this act of war.
But in the past two weeks a growing groundswell has been forming, to seek a diplomatic solution.
This, minority community believe a military response does change our enemy hatred for us.
They even believe a military response will make them even angrier.
They quickly hit the streets, recycling their signs of years, protesting an aggressive response.
Their signs call for "peace" and "understanding". Unfortunately, the protestors, so quick to launch
a verbal assault on their own government, failed to
-----------------------------------------------
Sept. 30th
Last Saturday my wife and I went shopping. A typical weekend event. Nothing unusual.
But this Saturday was different than others in recent years.
This Saturday two groups young Americans three thousand miles from each other were
sending a message to the world. One group was protesting their governments plans to seek
justice for the terrorist attack on Sept. 11th. They argue our country is not blameless for what
occurred, and a peaceful solution, rather than the use of force should be pursued.
The second group of young Americans, deep with the bowels of the Middle East, are on a
mission, to seek out and eradicate the enemy which attacked our nation.
This first group, safe within a nation the second one swore to protect, foolishly believe you
can reason with fanatical terrorists. To chant slogan, hold on signs, and demand our country
not seek out and destroy the enemy. To put nothing on the line for their country, only words that strengthen our enemies' resolve.
The second group, risking their lives for an appreciative nation, know the importance of what they are ordered to do. They know the magnitude of
--------------------------------------------------
I submit the following for publication.
Anthony J. Bruno
107 Lander Ct.
Morrisville, NC 27560
919 481 4538
Letter to the N&O……………
On Sunday, September 30, Sarah Shields wrote a Point of View commentary
in which she offers readers an alternate path to the military initiative currently
under way.
Ms. Shield, "after two weeks of fear and sadness and confusion" offer an answer.
She states this 'tragedy' (I hardly call a deliberate act a tragedy, more accurately
it was an atrocity) presents us with an opportunity (a word she used often).
But Ms. Shields offered readers nothing which will end the terrorism. She told readers
"we must take advantage of this opportunity to work with….Muslim victims to end this terror".
She went on to use several hundred words, this 'educator', provides readers a quick review
of events which led up to the deliberate murder of nearly seven thousand innocent people.
She closes her commentary repeating herself, "we must work with the Muslim world", "Together,
we can refuse to create an environment where fascism can flourish, …and bring the guilty to justice."
Ms. Shield avoids, perhaps intentionally, how terrorism can be ended without further bloodshed.
Let me fill in the blanks omitted in her commentary.
We can stop terrorism without force tomorrow if:
All Western influence is removed from the Middle East
Removal of our military presence in Saudia Arabia,
End of sanctions against Iraq
Elimination of the 'no fly zone'
Destruction of the state of Israel
This is the "opportunity" bin Laden seeks. I wonder if Ms. Shields would comply?
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Oct. 10, 2001
Juan,
I submitted the following for publication. I would
appreciate your assistance in getting it to the
Letters section.
Regards,
Anthony J. Bruno
107 Landser Ct.
Morrisville, NC 27560
919 481-4538
Its about time the United States begins to behave like
the responsible leader it is. No longer should we remain
sensitive to the feelings of nations who share little
regard or even respect for nations, people or religions
differing from their own.
We have no need to curb our tongues, alter our language,
or apologize for actions whose sole purpose is to advance
freedom and liberty for people throughout the world. And,
if our president decides to call the action to eradicate
the world of terrorism a "crusade" that's fine with me.
Is it any less sensitive than the fanatical lunatics who
attack us calling their action a Jihad or Holy War?
And why should our nation not embrace the one true friend
of freedom and democracy in the Middle East, the great nation
of Israel? If her neighboring Muslim states have a concern
with our support of Israel, they best get over it! The bond
we share Israel cannot be broken.
Moreover, the United States should welcome Israel as a true
enemy of terrorism, one which would enter into battle directly,
unlike Muslim nations who "condemn it", but offer little more
than tired rhetoric.
President Bush has thrown down the gauntlet. He welcomes all
nations willing to support this assault on terrorism, willing
to employ there forces to rid the world of these uncivilized
adversaries of all good people seeking peace through freedom.
The true passivity of the Muslim world was clearly seen as not
one leader of a Muslim state publicly said they would join
the fight to end terrorism with a declaration of war as our
country did on Sept. 11th.
The United States, Israel, Great Britain, Canada, France and
most of Western Europe are united in defense of freedoms once
thought secured with the end of World War II. A victory the
Muslim world refuses to accept.
Nations committed to freedom have no time to coddle and even
less for tolerance of nations who reap the benefits secured
by the blood of others, yet are unwilling to join the fight
to protect them.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Oct. 11, 2001
The Need to Know……………………………
What should a government tell the people they represent?
That is the question being asked by the media who believe government
should answer all questions believed to be in the "public's interest".
But by who's measuring stick? The media seems to believe whatever question
they can conjur up should be answered. Else, these questions would not be answered.
As I sit and listen to the media telling me what I need to know, I shout back at my
television with a resounding, "No, I don't". I care nothing about the military operations
being conducted. But I do care the results of such action, and I only want to know
when the government can tell me without jeopardizing future operations.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Oct. 11, 2001
A nation's culpability…………………………
It's one month since the worst slaughter of innocent civilians in our nation's history.
Most of us are still numb, even to the point of disbelief, until we see the photos.
And many of us ask why? Why do some people hate so much? What did we do, or not do
to deserve such an attack?
Whether we find answers to these questions should matter little. The people who did this don't
seek answers, they believe they already have them, Western society threatens their faith.
which leads them to destroy all we stand for.
The only question which needs to be answered is why did our government not begin to
respond in earnest to the threat of terrorism 5, 10,or 15 years ago?
All the evidence has been laid out. Marines killed in barracks in Saudi Arabia, bombings
of US embassies, bombing of World Trade Center nearly a decade earlier, the attack upon
a Navy destroyer, and lastly, the horrendous act of Sept. 11th.
Our government may not have caused the terrorist attack last month, but it shares blame for
not attacking terrorism much earlier than now. It should not have taken nearly 6000 dead,
and $100 billion in loses to seek out the terrorist network throughout the world and destroy it.
Since the very beginning of these attacks our government should have used our intelligence
to track down and destroy the terrorist network. We had enough information to do so, but
failed to.
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October 13th
As the overwhelming majority of Americans supported the military action to seek out
and destroy terrorist organizations, starting with those headquartered in Afghanistan,
a vocal group of citizens, mostly students and the men and women who educate them,
argue against such action. They are against a military response, no matter the cause.
They advocate "peace" even in response to the worst attack on the American people
in our history. They even go so far to say our nation bares some responsibility for the
assault which killed over 5000 innocent people.
They believe war is wrong, and only peace can end the atrocities all too common. They
march in our streets and on college campuses holding signs which preach peace, but
fail to support their worthy objective with how it can be achieved.
What they don't seem to realize is that peace is a result, not an approach. An approach
to peace can take several forms; diplomacy, negotiations, and when all else fails, war.
And this is where we are today.
Our nation has been patient during the past decade as the carnage of terrorism stretched
throughout the world, including two attacks on the World Trade Center, bombing of
American embassies in Africa, and an attack on a U.S. ship.
I don't recall such signs being raised in countries which provided aid and comfort to those
committing such atrocities. When was the last time this "Peaceful minority" approached
Saddam Huessin or Osama bin Laden, and asked them to stop supporting terrorism and
seek 'peace'? No, this highly educated group would not, for they know such efforts would
prove useless.
I suggest when classes resume both students and their educators visit the school library to
learn how peace has been achieved through the ages. They will read, when those who hate
and seek to destroy are not forcefully stopped, peace becomes enslavement.
Class dismissed.
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Oct. 15th
What's the point????
Observing the role of the media since Sept. 11th , I closely listen to the questions asked
of officials and wonder what the purpose is. Is the media looking for worthwhile information
the public needs to know, or are they seeking to fill the airwaves with anything, whether it
is important or not.
And what of officials, what should they be telling the public. Are they interested in promoting
only certain activites, and eliminating the pubic
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Oct. 15th
"Why call this a war?"
I have never been to war, but I believe I know one when I see one. And from what I see
our nation is not wagging war.
Since Sept.11th, our civilian leaders and their military counterparts have carefully laid
out a strategy to maximize the use of our forces in seeking out and destroying terrorists
where they reside, no matter where that may be.
After three weeks we began an air campaign, destroying military targets and hopefully
disrupting terrorist plans of future assaults. The might of our military cannot be matched,
but will it be effective?
The enemy we face does not confront us, and will not fight in conventional way. This enemy
will only run, hide, and if caught will seek legal means to "win" this war.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Oct. 19, 2001
I submit the following for publication.
Anthony J. Bruno
107 Landser Ct.
Morrisville, NC 27560
919 481-4538
Since Sept. 11th terrorist attack Americans have been concerned about their safety.
Immediately our nation went into a state of alert. All aircraft were grounded.
Government and high profile institutions were secured. And most of us viewed life
in a way we never would have considered before the attack. We became deeply
concerned about our safety.
As we declared war on terrorism and launched a military attack oversees, on the home
front we sought out and secured any and all vulnerable venues inside our country. Our
attention turned from the security in the air to the land as we saw the threat of anthrax
propagated through the mails. Most notably, to the media and high-profile government
offices.
But are there any safe havens which terrorists would not attack, places to go without
concern? Where in our nation can we find comfort and security?
Well, I'm pleased to report there are hundreds located throughout our nation., places
where all Americans can find sanctuary from terrorism. The public may not be aware
of them, but they do exist, are well-known, and easy to access.
The places citizens should populate to protect themselves are the universities spread
from coast to coast. From North Carolina (at Chapel Hill), to the Univ. of Cal at
Berkeley, the threat of terrorism will not occur.
And why would terrorists spare America's college campuses? Quite simply, there is no
reason to target unwitting accomplices to achieving their ultimate goal, the destruction
of Western influence, whether it is here, in the Middle East, or anyplace else.
No, terrorists target places considered a threat , where Western influence abounds. And
the last place such a threat exists are our institutions of higher learning.
So, study hard boys and girls, you have nothing to fear, except for remaining ignorant
due to the poor quality of educated provided by many of your professors. Class dismissed.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Howard,
I watched O'Reilly Friday evening and one the discussions was on Bush's attempt to curb
the flow of information by the media. One guest, Marvin Kalb, suggested the media's role
was to get the information to the public..
I believe the media should pursue its reporting with a two-pronged measuring stick. One,
is the information newsworthy, and secondly, is there a "need to know"?
Most often the media presents what they believe will keep the public's interest (ratings)
whether there is a valid need to know what government is doing or not.
Conveniently, many of your colleagues shield themselves with the First Amendment,
without caring a wit about the impact on the safety or security of those Americans who
are connected to the story.
In the most complicated war since the WWII such reporting should be curbed and would
appreciate your program addressing this subject in depth.
Regards,
Anthony J. Bruno
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Oct. 22nd
It is about time our government really stood up for the principles upon which our nation
was founded. While elected officials profess to do so, they weight every word and every
deed to not offend any nation or group, in fear of being offensive.
Well, let this be the first salvo in my personal assault on some of what is being said, and
done as our nation combats the greatest threat to our freedom in over fifty years.
-----------------------------------------
First, the Muslim community. Our political leadership has gone out of their way to not
offend Muslim-Americans, or the Muslim world at large. We are careful to say we are
pursuing individual terrorists where they are, and not soverign Muslim nations.
But, what must be understood is that Muslim nations have been complicit and supportive
of terrorist acts. All planning and executing from a base in Afghanistan, the terrorists were
from the Middle East. They developed their insane hatred for theWest in Muslim schools,
where children are taught from the earliest age that the Muslim world is threatened by
Western influence, and only with its destruction can this threat be ended.
Muslim children are not taught about freedom, democracy, or diverse nations living in
peace. They are not "taught" at all, only indoctrinated into a distorted view of a world.
Worst still these young minds are taught to hate a neighboring nation which only wants
to live in peace, Israel. And as they grow this hatred also grows and young men become
timebombs, exploding and killing innocent people.
And what is our response to this behavior? Well, it is tempered at best. We allow Muslim
leaders to conveniently distance themselves from cultivating these inhumane murderers.
Yet, we do not press them to educate the next generation of Muslim children differently,
teaching them archaric, backwords teaching has no place in a diverse world.
No the Muslim world continues to rear new generations of twisted minds. And only
exporting them once their fanatical behavior becomes too uncomfortable for the nation
which where they learned such hatred.
The good people of the United States have been sending billions in foreign aid to Muslim
nations, with little in return. Saudia Arabia and Egypt, the most stable of them rarely do
anything to promote promote peace, only breed anachary. And without the assurance of
our military support, both nations' governments would topple.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Those professing "peace" offer nothing more than this empty platitude. The word rings
Hollow since it cannot be achieved with effort. And the effort is an action,
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
September 11th, Period! Each time we he ar these two words we'll remember. Our
vulnerability,our compassion, and our resolve.
From that forward, each time we hear our patriotic songs, our eyes will water, and
Nothing else needs to be said. All Americans will know what this
date means to our nation.
And how are you feeling today, one month after S
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Oct. 23rd
It is said clothes make the man, and from difficult circumstances men become
leaders. Well, Sept. 11th, did that, in abundance.
Those who sought our vote, and our trust have earned both. The extraordinary way
our leaders have led the rescue effort, and comforted victims and the public at large
has made the horroric act as least bearable.
But, something is missing.
USA Today
I submit the following for publication.
Regards,
Anthony J. Bruno
107 Landser Ct.
Morrisville, NC 27560
919 481 4538
With all the eloquence we have heard since the Sept. 11th
attack, we have yet to hear the one message all Americans
deserve to hear. At no time did the President, or anyone
of authority say the following....
"I speak for everyone in government when I say to all
Americans, and those effected by the Sept. 11th terrorist
attack, I'm sorry.
"I apologize to the American people for their government's
inability to do the most important responsibility we are
charged with providing, to protect it citizens.
"We failed to to insure domestic tranquility or provide
for the common defense as our U.S. Constitution instructed
us to do.
"No words can ever reverse the horroric act that destroyed
so many lives, and made all Americans concerned for their
safety even here within our borders.
"But I can, and will commit to every citizen, your government
will use all its resources to strengthen our nation's security.
In airports, on highways and in every venure American rely
upon. Every government agency will take whatever steps are
needed to end terrorism, and make our nation once again safe.
"We cannot do it without the viligence of all Americans. But
I am certain you will respond to the challenge of eradicating
the terrorist threat.
"Again, I speak for everyone in government responsible for your
safety and security. We are sorry for our failures, and will not
rest until threats of any type upon our nation are eliminated.
Nov. 1st
As America prosecutes a war against terrorism we must understand
our enemies are more than various terrorist groups scattered
throughout the world. And the fight is not limited to an attack
upon our nation.
Our enemies are of professed Muslim faith who simply hate America.
They hate what we represent and how we achieved our greatness.
They believe we are a threat to their way of life and religious
beliefs. Their goal is to destroy our nation. A goal they will
never achieve.
But their hatred is not limited to the United States. No, these unholy bastards
seek to destroy the Western world, Christian nations, and all people of good
will and tolerance. They envision a world without freedom, diverse religions,
or democratic principles.
They argue Christians, Jews, and Western influences are the root cause
of the poverty, lack of self-rule in Muslim nations and the inability
to advance as Western nations have. They blame anything non-Muslim for
all the ills suffered by the Muslim world. And their solution is our
destruction.
But these misguided anarchists are not directing their hatred to the
real source of their discontent, the Muslim nations who rule the Middle
East. This is where the fault lies, where corrupt governments, have kept
the majority of their citizens enslaved to everything the terrorists and
their supporters rail against.
Nations such as Saudi Arabia, Syria, Jordan and others rule their people
with little tolerance for dissent. They fail to provide redress for their
people's concerns. They educate their children with an anti-Western
Curriculum which conditions them to be intolerant and hateful to anyone or
anything non-Muslim. And while they publicly condemn terrorism they do
little, if anything, to stop it from fermenting within the Muslim world.
Our nation has no choice. We must destroy terrorism. It must be killed in
whatever form it appears, whether it be terrorist cells, or sovereign nations.
There is no "coalition" with the Arab world as long as they refuse be an
equal partner with nations serious about combating terrorism. With or
without the support of Muslim nations we will win this war. And after we do
perhaps a new Middle East will be born, one of representative governments,
rather than kingdoms, with each nation built on a foundation of the
Muslim faith and individual freedom.
Nov. 3rd
Winning a war.....................
Since our military first began its offensive in Afghanistan the
number of second-guessers in the media and Congress nearly outnumbered
the military personnel dispatched to the Middle East. The questions
began, "when will the air attack begin, when will they end, when will
troops move in, will we halt the assualt for Rammadan, and on and on.
I am not a military man by any means, and would not criticize the
professionals leading this war effort. But, I will offer my "two
cents" and hope you and all the leaders who are prosecuting this
war will consider the following.
Ignore world opinion
First, forget about world opinion. We cannot be dissuaded by criticism
from other nations. Secretary Rumsfeld and the Joint Chiefs should not
attempt to calculate how Muslim states or even Russia or China would
respond to any attack or means under consideration.
Choose the best course to end the conflict
Whether we choose to continue bombing, mass troop deployment, or even
low-level nuclear, this decision should be based on which would be the
quickest way to end the conflict in Afghanistan. The sooner and more
overwhelming our military achieves its goal, the easier it will be as
we move on to other terrorist outposts.
Information.........Only a need to know.
Communications with the media and the American people should be based
on a "need to know" basis. The Administration is doing a good job, but
I am concerned as the war looms on military briefings may give more
information in order to bolster support. Don't allow the media to
determine what should be publicized.
Humanitarian aid AFTER victory is won
Prosecute the war first and leave the humanitarian food drops until
after we achieve victory. We cannot effectively do both. The best way
to aid the Afghan people is to end the reign of the Taliban and the
elimination of Al-Qaeda as quickly as possible. Attempting to do both
will inhibit us from doing either to the best of our ability.
Employ Israel in the effort
We must allow Israel to join this fight against terrorism as readily
as we welcome any other nation. No longer should Israel be treated as
a stepchild member of the world community of nations just to pacify
the Arab world. Israel deserves the same respect from Muslim states
as these states receive from our nation.
Remember our role on the world stage
If we are to lead the world in the war against terroism we cannot
allow coalition members to dictate whether or not to comply with
our intentions. One example is Saudi Arabia and Egypt refusing to
provide flight manifests of passenger travelling to the United States.
Such resistance should be unacceptable during a time of war, and all
flights from these two countries should not be permitted to land on
our soil.
I hope you got the opportunity to read this, and will consider employing
some of these suggestions.
In closing, I hope you will remain as vigliant and steadfast in your resolve
to end this conflict as you ask the American people. Our nation has placed
our trust in you and depend on your judgement.
Win this war, and give no quarter to our enemies or their sympathizers.
God Bless America,
Anthony J. Bruno
Cary, NC
Nov. 8th
The terrorist attack of Sept. 11th will remain in our nation’s conscience long after
those who lived through that horrible day are gone. And terrorism will no longer
be an event that occurred elsewhere. No, terrorism will be a visible, personal
concern of all Americans.
But terrorism has been with us for over three decades. It surfaced in the Middle East
with attacks in Israel, and has been with us since. And efforts to curb terrorism was
never enough to dissuade those committed to destroy our institutions and our nation.
During the more than quarter century our nation has had its guard up against terrorism
time and again we have seen protective measures compromised. Even with the tens of
millions of dollars spent to protect us.
Since the 1970s our government has added layer upon layer of laws to protect us from
ourselves, requiring seatbelts in automobiles and helmets when riding bicycles, limiting
where smokers can light up,
placed greater burdens on usAmericans have been dire
Sept. 21
We listened to President Bush harken a message not heard in six decades. He called the
American people to arms. With the worst nation tragedy in our history our country is
embarked on a war. One it must win. Not for our nation, but for the entire world.
President received kudos, not only from his partisan fans, but even from those who belittled
him, even personally. But not last night. They rallied to his leadership.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Watching CSPAN I saw the usual suspects, less than twenty-four hours after applauding our
president over thirty times as he delivered a message of the gravest important, the threat to
our nation's security, go about their habit of seeking funds to for domestic purposes.
Additional funds for unemployment insurance, airlines and others impacted by last week's
terrorist attack may need Congressional attention. But money for such support should not
directed until we fully know the direct cost of the recovery.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Time and again I observe events with the clarity of twenty-twenty hindsight. Most events are so inconsequential, insignificant in the scale of what is truly important.
Well, on Sept. 11, 2001 an event occurred which will be emblazened in our nation's history, forever a
day of national mourning, had me once again look back, and ask myself how did we get here. What
would prompt such a deliberate assault on innocent people going about their daily lives.
As in most cases, there enough blame to go around. A relaxed nation, basking in "domestic tranquility".
A nation lax in security, making certain its citizens don't bring Cuban cigars or foreign plants or fruit
home with them, yet not ensuring the security of the travelling public.
But a nation can be lax, keep its guard down, and still be secure. Such threats don't occur to most
nations. Only hate of the worst kind can bring the results of terrorism inflicted upon the American
people.
As Americans question why others hate us, and target our people, most don’t' look back at the history which brings us to the day when tragedy strikes. And often our attackers are the same we supported.
Yet why?
There is one common denominator that all our attackers possess, the lack of moral fiber. These American enemies only concern is retaining their own power, indoctrinate their people and withhold their freedom.
And often, America's enemies were often our allies, funded and supported by the same American people they now seek to attack.
We cannot make other nations like us, but we can be selective about which regimes we support. We can no longer look to aligning ourselves with the lesser of two evils. True evil can never be measured, only fought.
By choosing one, eventually we will battle both. The Talaban gov't which controls Afghanistan, got its power through support and aid of the United States. We knew what type of regime they were, and how they would govern.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
What our enemies must think……..Anyone who spends as much time as I do watching news programming learns probably too much about what our government is doing, and so do our enemies.
Often, news reports tell the viewing and listening public what government has learned, who is under survailance, where we are looking for them, etc., etc. etc…….
I wonder, how much has the normal, common behavior of gov't, the media and general availability of information benefited those who threatened us?
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Improving the security of air travel………………………….
There can be no silver lining in what occurred in New York and Washington,
only recognition of its lasting impact, improvement to greater protect the
American people.
The airline industry has received much criticism for lax security leading to the
four high-jackings. But airlines, like other businesses should not be saddled
with security of its customers, only their safety. Security is the job of professional
civilian government agencies.
The FAA has been collecting fees, which have been accumulating into the billions.
This money needs to be immediately channeled to security improvements, not
squirreled away as it is.
On the planes………………..
Security can be dramatically improved with the immediate deployment of sky marshals.
Cockpits need to be secured, with inpenatrable cabin doors, and pilots armed to defend
against assault.
Technological improvements to prevent non-authorized personnel from piloting flights,
such as codes required to change pre-determined course.
On the ground………………………
Airlines will no longer be responsible for the hiring and employment of personnel who
screen and check-in travelers.
The FAA should be responsible for all security of flights, from check in of luggage,
identity verification, and goods and cargo stored on aircraft.
Every employee; airport, airline, sub-contractor with access to airlines need to be screened
by government agencies.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sept. 23
A message to the Muslim world.
In the aftermath to the worst tragedy on their shores Americans are told to restrain their emotions, their anger and hostilities towards people of an Arab background. We are told to be tolerant, not all Muslims should be targeted.
Yes, this is absolutely true. Only the monsters who attacked our nation on Sept. 11th should be held accountable, not good people who had nothing to do with these acts.
But, I also pose the same plea to the Arab world, where is your tolerance, your understanding
of what the American people feel?
Madman from the Middle East entered our country, lived amongst us, enjoyed the freedoms
and liberty all citizens enjoy. They were free to worship as they please, participate in whichever endeavor they chose.
American citizens knew them, worked with them, befriended them. Can you blame us for
feeling the way we do? Are we wrong to look at people with similar features in the same way?
As Americans, most of us will be tolerant. But, many of us will be uneasy in your presence.
Many may not want to fly on the same plane boarded by men who look as the terrorists did?
Our nation is at war, not with majority of the good people residing in the Middle East, only those who refuse to use the political and diplomatic means to air grievances. We are at war with zealots,
who hide behind the cloak of religion.
Now is the time for resides of our nation, citizen and alien alike to bond together to kill the terrorist threat.
The over seven million Muslims in our country must become a visible and vocal enemy of terrorism. They must win back the confidence of non-Muslim citizens, all but destroyed by
these monsters of all free and good people.
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And what are we hearing on America's campuses? Our leaders of tomorrow seem more concerned with civilian casualties then bringing to justice terrorists and ending the insanity of their acts.
When the second plane hit the Twin Towers, I knew it was terrorism, and immediately said, "We are at war.'" This phase is more than words, wars have occurred through the ages, and civilians will be killed. Civilians like the 7000 who went about their business on a normal Tuesday morning.
The young men
including those we label terrorists. Is this the manner in which civilized people behave?
.Sept. 27th
WaggingWar:
Americans of all ages wondered learned quickly how this generation would handle adversity.
After the Sept. 11 deliberate high-jacking and crashing of four jetliners, causing the death of
over 7000, we saw the commitment of most Americans to stand tall, grieve with the survivors
and support the president's goal to track down and destroy the network behind this act of war.
But in the past two weeks a growing groundswell has been forming, to seek a diplomatic solution.
This, minority community believe a military response does change our enemy hatred for us.
They even believe a military response will make them even angrier.
They quickly hit the streets, recycling their signs of years, protesting an aggressive response.
Their signs call for "peace" and "understanding". Unfortunately, the protestors, so quick to launch
a verbal assault on their own government, failed to
-----------------------------------------------
Sept. 30th
Last Saturday my wife and I went shopping. A typical weekend event. Nothing unusual.
But this Saturday was different than others in recent years.
This Saturday two groups young Americans three thousand miles from each other were
sending a message to the world. One group was protesting their governments plans to seek
justice for the terrorist attack on Sept. 11th. They argue our country is not blameless for what
occurred, and a peaceful solution, rather than the use of force should be pursued.
The second group of young Americans, deep with the bowels of the Middle East, are on a
mission, to seek out and eradicate the enemy which attacked our nation.
This first group, safe within a nation the second one swore to protect, foolishly believe you
can reason with fanatical terrorists. To chant slogan, hold on signs, and demand our country
not seek out and destroy the enemy. To put nothing on the line for their country, only words that strengthen our enemies' resolve.
The second group, risking their lives for an appreciative nation, know the importance of what they are ordered to do. They know the magnitude of
--------------------------------------------------
I submit the following for publication.
Anthony J. Bruno
107 Lander Ct.
Morrisville, NC 27560
919 481 4538
Letter to the N&O……………
On Sunday, September 30, Sarah Shields wrote a Point of View commentary
in which she offers readers an alternate path to the military initiative currently
under way.
Ms. Shield, "after two weeks of fear and sadness and confusion" offer an answer.
She states this 'tragedy' (I hardly call a deliberate act a tragedy, more accurately
it was an atrocity) presents us with an opportunity (a word she used often).
But Ms. Shields offered readers nothing which will end the terrorism. She told readers
"we must take advantage of this opportunity to work with….Muslim victims to end this terror".
She went on to use several hundred words, this 'educator', provides readers a quick review
of events which led up to the deliberate murder of nearly seven thousand innocent people.
She closes her commentary repeating herself, "we must work with the Muslim world", "Together,
we can refuse to create an environment where fascism can flourish, …and bring the guilty to justice."
Ms. Shield avoids, perhaps intentionally, how terrorism can be ended without further bloodshed.
Let me fill in the blanks omitted in her commentary.
We can stop terrorism without force tomorrow if:
All Western influence is removed from the Middle East
Removal of our military presence in Saudia Arabia,
End of sanctions against Iraq
Elimination of the 'no fly zone'
Destruction of the state of Israel
This is the "opportunity" bin Laden seeks. I wonder if Ms. Shields would comply?
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Oct. 10, 2001
Juan,
I submitted the following for publication. I would
appreciate your assistance in getting it to the
Letters section.
Regards,
Anthony J. Bruno
107 Landser Ct.
Morrisville, NC 27560
919 481-4538
Its about time the United States begins to behave like
the responsible leader it is. No longer should we remain
sensitive to the feelings of nations who share little
regard or even respect for nations, people or religions
differing from their own.
We have no need to curb our tongues, alter our language,
or apologize for actions whose sole purpose is to advance
freedom and liberty for people throughout the world. And,
if our president decides to call the action to eradicate
the world of terrorism a "crusade" that's fine with me.
Is it any less sensitive than the fanatical lunatics who
attack us calling their action a Jihad or Holy War?
And why should our nation not embrace the one true friend
of freedom and democracy in the Middle East, the great nation
of Israel? If her neighboring Muslim states have a concern
with our support of Israel, they best get over it! The bond
we share Israel cannot be broken.
Moreover, the United States should welcome Israel as a true
enemy of terrorism, one which would enter into battle directly,
unlike Muslim nations who "condemn it", but offer little more
than tired rhetoric.
President Bush has thrown down the gauntlet. He welcomes all
nations willing to support this assault on terrorism, willing
to employ there forces to rid the world of these uncivilized
adversaries of all good people seeking peace through freedom.
The true passivity of the Muslim world was clearly seen as not
one leader of a Muslim state publicly said they would join
the fight to end terrorism with a declaration of war as our
country did on Sept. 11th.
The United States, Israel, Great Britain, Canada, France and
most of Western Europe are united in defense of freedoms once
thought secured with the end of World War II. A victory the
Muslim world refuses to accept.
Nations committed to freedom have no time to coddle and even
less for tolerance of nations who reap the benefits secured
by the blood of others, yet are unwilling to join the fight
to protect them.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Oct. 11, 2001
The Need to Know……………………………
What should a government tell the people they represent?
That is the question being asked by the media who believe government
should answer all questions believed to be in the "public's interest".
But by who's measuring stick? The media seems to believe whatever question
they can conjur up should be answered. Else, these questions would not be answered.
As I sit and listen to the media telling me what I need to know, I shout back at my
television with a resounding, "No, I don't". I care nothing about the military operations
being conducted. But I do care the results of such action, and I only want to know
when the government can tell me without jeopardizing future operations.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Oct. 11, 2001
A nation's culpability…………………………
It's one month since the worst slaughter of innocent civilians in our nation's history.
Most of us are still numb, even to the point of disbelief, until we see the photos.
And many of us ask why? Why do some people hate so much? What did we do, or not do
to deserve such an attack?
Whether we find answers to these questions should matter little. The people who did this don't
seek answers, they believe they already have them, Western society threatens their faith.
which leads them to destroy all we stand for.
The only question which needs to be answered is why did our government not begin to
respond in earnest to the threat of terrorism 5, 10,or 15 years ago?
All the evidence has been laid out. Marines killed in barracks in Saudi Arabia, bombings
of US embassies, bombing of World Trade Center nearly a decade earlier, the attack upon
a Navy destroyer, and lastly, the horrendous act of Sept. 11th.
Our government may not have caused the terrorist attack last month, but it shares blame for
not attacking terrorism much earlier than now. It should not have taken nearly 6000 dead,
and $100 billion in loses to seek out the terrorist network throughout the world and destroy it.
Since the very beginning of these attacks our government should have used our intelligence
to track down and destroy the terrorist network. We had enough information to do so, but
failed to.
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October 13th
As the overwhelming majority of Americans supported the military action to seek out
and destroy terrorist organizations, starting with those headquartered in Afghanistan,
a vocal group of citizens, mostly students and the men and women who educate them,
argue against such action. They are against a military response, no matter the cause.
They advocate "peace" even in response to the worst attack on the American people
in our history. They even go so far to say our nation bares some responsibility for the
assault which killed over 5000 innocent people.
They believe war is wrong, and only peace can end the atrocities all too common. They
march in our streets and on college campuses holding signs which preach peace, but
fail to support their worthy objective with how it can be achieved.
What they don't seem to realize is that peace is a result, not an approach. An approach
to peace can take several forms; diplomacy, negotiations, and when all else fails, war.
And this is where we are today.
Our nation has been patient during the past decade as the carnage of terrorism stretched
throughout the world, including two attacks on the World Trade Center, bombing of
American embassies in Africa, and an attack on a U.S. ship.
I don't recall such signs being raised in countries which provided aid and comfort to those
committing such atrocities. When was the last time this "Peaceful minority" approached
Saddam Huessin or Osama bin Laden, and asked them to stop supporting terrorism and
seek 'peace'? No, this highly educated group would not, for they know such efforts would
prove useless.
I suggest when classes resume both students and their educators visit the school library to
learn how peace has been achieved through the ages. They will read, when those who hate
and seek to destroy are not forcefully stopped, peace becomes enslavement.
Class dismissed.
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Oct. 15th
What's the point????
Observing the role of the media since Sept. 11th , I closely listen to the questions asked
of officials and wonder what the purpose is. Is the media looking for worthwhile information
the public needs to know, or are they seeking to fill the airwaves with anything, whether it
is important or not.
And what of officials, what should they be telling the public. Are they interested in promoting
only certain activites, and eliminating the pubic
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Oct. 15th
"Why call this a war?"
I have never been to war, but I believe I know one when I see one. And from what I see
our nation is not wagging war.
Since Sept.11th, our civilian leaders and their military counterparts have carefully laid
out a strategy to maximize the use of our forces in seeking out and destroying terrorists
where they reside, no matter where that may be.
After three weeks we began an air campaign, destroying military targets and hopefully
disrupting terrorist plans of future assaults. The might of our military cannot be matched,
but will it be effective?
The enemy we face does not confront us, and will not fight in conventional way. This enemy
will only run, hide, and if caught will seek legal means to "win" this war.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Oct. 19, 2001
I submit the following for publication.
Anthony J. Bruno
107 Landser Ct.
Morrisville, NC 27560
919 481-4538
Since Sept. 11th terrorist attack Americans have been concerned about their safety.
Immediately our nation went into a state of alert. All aircraft were grounded.
Government and high profile institutions were secured. And most of us viewed life
in a way we never would have considered before the attack. We became deeply
concerned about our safety.
As we declared war on terrorism and launched a military attack oversees, on the home
front we sought out and secured any and all vulnerable venues inside our country. Our
attention turned from the security in the air to the land as we saw the threat of anthrax
propagated through the mails. Most notably, to the media and high-profile government
offices.
But are there any safe havens which terrorists would not attack, places to go without
concern? Where in our nation can we find comfort and security?
Well, I'm pleased to report there are hundreds located throughout our nation., places
where all Americans can find sanctuary from terrorism. The public may not be aware
of them, but they do exist, are well-known, and easy to access.
The places citizens should populate to protect themselves are the universities spread
from coast to coast. From North Carolina (at Chapel Hill), to the Univ. of Cal at
Berkeley, the threat of terrorism will not occur.
And why would terrorists spare America's college campuses? Quite simply, there is no
reason to target unwitting accomplices to achieving their ultimate goal, the destruction
of Western influence, whether it is here, in the Middle East, or anyplace else.
No, terrorists target places considered a threat , where Western influence abounds. And
the last place such a threat exists are our institutions of higher learning.
So, study hard boys and girls, you have nothing to fear, except for remaining ignorant
due to the poor quality of educated provided by many of your professors. Class dismissed.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Howard,
I watched O'Reilly Friday evening and one the discussions was on Bush's attempt to curb
the flow of information by the media. One guest, Marvin Kalb, suggested the media's role
was to get the information to the public..
I believe the media should pursue its reporting with a two-pronged measuring stick. One,
is the information newsworthy, and secondly, is there a "need to know"?
Most often the media presents what they believe will keep the public's interest (ratings)
whether there is a valid need to know what government is doing or not.
Conveniently, many of your colleagues shield themselves with the First Amendment,
without caring a wit about the impact on the safety or security of those Americans who
are connected to the story.
In the most complicated war since the WWII such reporting should be curbed and would
appreciate your program addressing this subject in depth.
Regards,
Anthony J. Bruno
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Oct. 22nd
It is about time our government really stood up for the principles upon which our nation
was founded. While elected officials profess to do so, they weight every word and every
deed to not offend any nation or group, in fear of being offensive.
Well, let this be the first salvo in my personal assault on some of what is being said, and
done as our nation combats the greatest threat to our freedom in over fifty years.
-----------------------------------------
First, the Muslim community. Our political leadership has gone out of their way to not
offend Muslim-Americans, or the Muslim world at large. We are careful to say we are
pursuing individual terrorists where they are, and not soverign Muslim nations.
But, what must be understood is that Muslim nations have been complicit and supportive
of terrorist acts. All planning and executing from a base in Afghanistan, the terrorists were
from the Middle East. They developed their insane hatred for theWest in Muslim schools,
where children are taught from the earliest age that the Muslim world is threatened by
Western influence, and only with its destruction can this threat be ended.
Muslim children are not taught about freedom, democracy, or diverse nations living in
peace. They are not "taught" at all, only indoctrinated into a distorted view of a world.
Worst still these young minds are taught to hate a neighboring nation which only wants
to live in peace, Israel. And as they grow this hatred also grows and young men become
timebombs, exploding and killing innocent people.
And what is our response to this behavior? Well, it is tempered at best. We allow Muslim
leaders to conveniently distance themselves from cultivating these inhumane murderers.
Yet, we do not press them to educate the next generation of Muslim children differently,
teaching them archaric, backwords teaching has no place in a diverse world.
No the Muslim world continues to rear new generations of twisted minds. And only
exporting them once their fanatical behavior becomes too uncomfortable for the nation
which where they learned such hatred.
The good people of the United States have been sending billions in foreign aid to Muslim
nations, with little in return. Saudia Arabia and Egypt, the most stable of them rarely do
anything to promote promote peace, only breed anachary. And without the assurance of
our military support, both nations' governments would topple.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Those professing "peace" offer nothing more than this empty platitude. The word rings
Hollow since it cannot be achieved with effort. And the effort is an action,
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
September 11th, Period! Each time we he ar these two words we'll remember. Our
vulnerability,our compassion, and our resolve.
From that forward, each time we hear our patriotic songs, our eyes will water, and
Nothing else needs to be said. All Americans will know what this
date means to our nation.
And how are you feeling today, one month after S
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Oct. 23rd
It is said clothes make the man, and from difficult circumstances men become
leaders. Well, Sept. 11th, did that, in abundance.
Those who sought our vote, and our trust have earned both. The extraordinary way
our leaders have led the rescue effort, and comforted victims and the public at large
has made the horroric act as least bearable.
But, something is missing.
USA Today
I submit the following for publication.
Regards,
Anthony J. Bruno
107 Landser Ct.
Morrisville, NC 27560
919 481 4538
With all the eloquence we have heard since the Sept. 11th
attack, we have yet to hear the one message all Americans
deserve to hear. At no time did the President, or anyone
of authority say the following....
"I speak for everyone in government when I say to all
Americans, and those effected by the Sept. 11th terrorist
attack, I'm sorry.
"I apologize to the American people for their government's
inability to do the most important responsibility we are
charged with providing, to protect it citizens.
"We failed to to insure domestic tranquility or provide
for the common defense as our U.S. Constitution instructed
us to do.
"No words can ever reverse the horroric act that destroyed
so many lives, and made all Americans concerned for their
safety even here within our borders.
"But I can, and will commit to every citizen, your government
will use all its resources to strengthen our nation's security.
In airports, on highways and in every venure American rely
upon. Every government agency will take whatever steps are
needed to end terrorism, and make our nation once again safe.
"We cannot do it without the viligence of all Americans. But
I am certain you will respond to the challenge of eradicating
the terrorist threat.
"Again, I speak for everyone in government responsible for your
safety and security. We are sorry for our failures, and will not
rest until threats of any type upon our nation are eliminated.
Nov. 1st
As America prosecutes a war against terrorism we must understand
our enemies are more than various terrorist groups scattered
throughout the world. And the fight is not limited to an attack
upon our nation.
Our enemies are of professed Muslim faith who simply hate America.
They hate what we represent and how we achieved our greatness.
They believe we are a threat to their way of life and religious
beliefs. Their goal is to destroy our nation. A goal they will
never achieve.
But their hatred is not limited to the United States. No, these unholy bastards
seek to destroy the Western world, Christian nations, and all people of good
will and tolerance. They envision a world without freedom, diverse religions,
or democratic principles.
They argue Christians, Jews, and Western influences are the root cause
of the poverty, lack of self-rule in Muslim nations and the inability
to advance as Western nations have. They blame anything non-Muslim for
all the ills suffered by the Muslim world. And their solution is our
destruction.
But these misguided anarchists are not directing their hatred to the
real source of their discontent, the Muslim nations who rule the Middle
East. This is where the fault lies, where corrupt governments, have kept
the majority of their citizens enslaved to everything the terrorists and
their supporters rail against.
Nations such as Saudi Arabia, Syria, Jordan and others rule their people
with little tolerance for dissent. They fail to provide redress for their
people's concerns. They educate their children with an anti-Western
Curriculum which conditions them to be intolerant and hateful to anyone or
anything non-Muslim. And while they publicly condemn terrorism they do
little, if anything, to stop it from fermenting within the Muslim world.
Our nation has no choice. We must destroy terrorism. It must be killed in
whatever form it appears, whether it be terrorist cells, or sovereign nations.
There is no "coalition" with the Arab world as long as they refuse be an
equal partner with nations serious about combating terrorism. With or
without the support of Muslim nations we will win this war. And after we do
perhaps a new Middle East will be born, one of representative governments,
rather than kingdoms, with each nation built on a foundation of the
Muslim faith and individual freedom.
Nov. 3rd
Winning a war.....................
Since our military first began its offensive in Afghanistan the
number of second-guessers in the media and Congress nearly outnumbered
the military personnel dispatched to the Middle East. The questions
began, "when will the air attack begin, when will they end, when will
troops move in, will we halt the assualt for Rammadan, and on and on.
I am not a military man by any means, and would not criticize the
professionals leading this war effort. But, I will offer my "two
cents" and hope you and all the leaders who are prosecuting this
war will consider the following.
Ignore world opinion
First, forget about world opinion. We cannot be dissuaded by criticism
from other nations. Secretary Rumsfeld and the Joint Chiefs should not
attempt to calculate how Muslim states or even Russia or China would
respond to any attack or means under consideration.
Choose the best course to end the conflict
Whether we choose to continue bombing, mass troop deployment, or even
low-level nuclear, this decision should be based on which would be the
quickest way to end the conflict in Afghanistan. The sooner and more
overwhelming our military achieves its goal, the easier it will be as
we move on to other terrorist outposts.
Information.........Only a need to know.
Communications with the media and the American people should be based
on a "need to know" basis. The Administration is doing a good job, but
I am concerned as the war looms on military briefings may give more
information in order to bolster support. Don't allow the media to
determine what should be publicized.
Humanitarian aid AFTER victory is won
Prosecute the war first and leave the humanitarian food drops until
after we achieve victory. We cannot effectively do both. The best way
to aid the Afghan people is to end the reign of the Taliban and the
elimination of Al-Qaeda as quickly as possible. Attempting to do both
will inhibit us from doing either to the best of our ability.
Employ Israel in the effort
We must allow Israel to join this fight against terrorism as readily
as we welcome any other nation. No longer should Israel be treated as
a stepchild member of the world community of nations just to pacify
the Arab world. Israel deserves the same respect from Muslim states
as these states receive from our nation.
Remember our role on the world stage
If we are to lead the world in the war against terroism we cannot
allow coalition members to dictate whether or not to comply with
our intentions. One example is Saudi Arabia and Egypt refusing to
provide flight manifests of passenger travelling to the United States.
Such resistance should be unacceptable during a time of war, and all
flights from these two countries should not be permitted to land on
our soil.
I hope you got the opportunity to read this, and will consider employing
some of these suggestions.
In closing, I hope you will remain as vigliant and steadfast in your resolve
to end this conflict as you ask the American people. Our nation has placed
our trust in you and depend on your judgement.
Win this war, and give no quarter to our enemies or their sympathizers.
God Bless America,
Anthony J. Bruno
Cary, NC
Nov. 8th
The terrorist attack of Sept. 11th will remain in our nation’s conscience long after
those who lived through that horrible day are gone. And terrorism will no longer
be an event that occurred elsewhere. No, terrorism will be a visible, personal
concern of all Americans.
But terrorism has been with us for over three decades. It surfaced in the Middle East
with attacks in Israel, and has been with us since. And efforts to curb terrorism was
never enough to dissuade those committed to destroy our institutions and our nation.
During the more than quarter century our nation has had its guard up against terrorism
time and again we have seen protective measures compromised. Even with the tens of
millions of dollars spent to protect us.
Since the 1970s our government has added layer upon layer of laws to protect us from
ourselves, requiring seatbelts in automobiles and helmets when riding bicycles, limiting
where smokers can light up,
placed greater burdens on usAmericans have been dire
EducaTE
I believe the continuing failure of education in America has to
rest squarely on the shoulders of parents, children, teachers and
the educational system in our country. All are guilty for every
child that does not learn. The sooner this is admitted, the
sooner our children, and our country will benefit.
It is not a mystery what is wrong, too many young children do not
learn the basics, reading & writing, in the early grades. They
continue on to the next grade, lacking the ability to do even
more difficult work. The system continues to move them 'forward'
until these children 'graduate', and are no longer the responsibility
of the school. Is it any wonder we have so many children failing?
We would not attempt to put up a new building without a foundation,
but think little of how fragile a 'foundation' we provide young
children.
Two areas that come to my mind are:
1. Desire:
Parents must be involved with the education of their children.
Children must want to go to school for an education.
Teachers must demand their students learn, not just pass.
2. Priorities:
When the public begins to place the value of their educators
as high as other public officials (police, fire, sanitation)
we will begin to see an improvement in the people entering
education.
When parents take as much interest in how their children are
doing in school as they do in THEIR own careers, and less-
important activities (sports, TV, movies) we will begin to
see an improvement in the education of their children.
When more children take education as serious as they do
social activities they will learn what is needed to be
successful after graduating.
When the education industry begins to ensure our children
are prepared to enter work force with the education they
need to excel in any career they pursue, then we will see
an improvement in the education our children get.
One final note. Since the Business Roundtable is comprised of
200 business executives it might be beneficial to focus on what
made these individuals successful. I am concerned that all the
government "tinkering" that has been going on, such as new
'creative', programs, re-writing history, minimizing test scores
for certain groups have only worsened the problem our children face.
Much success with the efforts of Mr. Akers and the College Board. I
hope that IBMers are kept up-to-date on this worthwhile enterprise.
Sincerely,
Anthony Bruno
"Is it too Late to Become an Educated Voter?"
"Is it too Late to Become an Educated Voter?"
Nov. 2, 1994
I think it's too late for voters to learn enough
about the candidates and the issues before election
day. And we are the poorer for it.
The average American knows more about the Simpson
trial than they do about individuals asking to
represent them. Yet, the people we elect impact
our pocketbooks and regulate our lives.
Most of us select a person either by party, personality,
one key issue, or an outside influence (spouse, friend, celebrity).
We know little about the legislation to be introduced,
or how candidates will be voting. And the legislation
is so complex even our representatives don't know all
the elements before passing news laws.
The media reports on negative ads, rather than presenting real differences between candidates. And the candidates become evasive when pressed to defend an unpopular vote.
The blame belongs to each of us. "We get the representation we deserve". This statement was never truer.
How do we fix it? By taking the election process as a serious exercise. Study the candidates and issues. See how
new legislation impacts you, your state and our country.
And once the election is over keep in touch with your legislators. Let them know you care, are interested and will be an active citizen.
A bigger challenge is to overhaul Congressional rules.
Allow all votes to come to the floor and not stay bottled
in committee. Provide a line item veto, change two-year Congressional terms to four years and allow legislation
to be put to a state or national vote.
Much needs to be done, but it has to start with us.
Anthony J. Bruno
Nov. 2, 1994
I think it's too late for voters to learn enough
about the candidates and the issues before election
day. And we are the poorer for it.
The average American knows more about the Simpson
trial than they do about individuals asking to
represent them. Yet, the people we elect impact
our pocketbooks and regulate our lives.
Most of us select a person either by party, personality,
one key issue, or an outside influence (spouse, friend, celebrity).
We know little about the legislation to be introduced,
or how candidates will be voting. And the legislation
is so complex even our representatives don't know all
the elements before passing news laws.
The media reports on negative ads, rather than presenting real differences between candidates. And the candidates become evasive when pressed to defend an unpopular vote.
The blame belongs to each of us. "We get the representation we deserve". This statement was never truer.
How do we fix it? By taking the election process as a serious exercise. Study the candidates and issues. See how
new legislation impacts you, your state and our country.
And once the election is over keep in touch with your legislators. Let them know you care, are interested and will be an active citizen.
A bigger challenge is to overhaul Congressional rules.
Allow all votes to come to the floor and not stay bottled
in committee. Provide a line item veto, change two-year Congressional terms to four years and allow legislation
to be put to a state or national vote.
Much needs to be done, but it has to start with us.
Anthony J. Bruno
"A Nugget of Gold Political speak
"A Nugget of Gold"
Feb. 17, 1996
Anyone who is familiar with the amount of rock that
must be mined in order to uncover a small nugget of
gold may understand my frustration with political campaigning.
In the political arena candidates have only their
ideas and their words. With them they must persuade
us to support their campaign and elect them.
Perhaps it is the day we live in; the electronic age,
with multi-media outlets that bring into our homes day
in and day out the candidate's words. Words selected
to convince us they are the ones who should govern.
But as I listen to the abundance of words that flow
through the speaker of my television or jump off the
page of my newspaper I see only rocks. Rocks not
unlike those that must be discarded as miners seek the single nugget that has true worth.
As I watch this campaign and listen to such useless
banter, my mind turns to important issues that need solutions. I wait for ideas conveyed with words, not
rocks. I am hopeful someone will stand above the
others based on his ability to govern, not by the
amount of rocks he wades through.
Anthony J. Bruno
Feb. 17, 1996
Anyone who is familiar with the amount of rock that
must be mined in order to uncover a small nugget of
gold may understand my frustration with political campaigning.
In the political arena candidates have only their
ideas and their words. With them they must persuade
us to support their campaign and elect them.
Perhaps it is the day we live in; the electronic age,
with multi-media outlets that bring into our homes day
in and day out the candidate's words. Words selected
to convince us they are the ones who should govern.
But as I listen to the abundance of words that flow
through the speaker of my television or jump off the
page of my newspaper I see only rocks. Rocks not
unlike those that must be discarded as miners seek the single nugget that has true worth.
As I watch this campaign and listen to such useless
banter, my mind turns to important issues that need solutions. I wait for ideas conveyed with words, not
rocks. I am hopeful someone will stand above the
others based on his ability to govern, not by the
amount of rocks he wades through.
Anthony J. Bruno
Media
"Media 'R US"
July 7, 1995
From the article it is obvious the networks have
problems, but have yet to make the changes needed
to meet the demands of there 'customers'.
I doubt they sense what is important to viewers.
There is such a sameness to network reports. None of
them offer a quality of reporting that sets them apart.
They are driven by advertising dollars, not by good journalism and still retain an arrogance from their
'glory days' and act as though the world has not
changed since there arrival in the 50s.
What is occurring to network news today happened to
the American auto industry in the 70s. The competition
has filled the void by providing better journalism,
with a creativity the networks do not offer, and a
greater respect for the viewing public.
The networks still believe in packaging, rather than
the contents within. I say this not to disparage the anchors, since each is a quality newsperson. But
somewhere the journalistic compass has shifted and
the networks are less than they can be, and the public
is poorer for it.
What will it take to fix the problem? One word, boldness.
One network must be bold, daring, and not limit itself
to the old rules. That is what is needed.
With all the money being spent to promote themselves
I find it amazing how little creativity is displayed.
Real creativity, not eye-catching graphics; creative,
honest journalism.
This problem is not necessarily the fault of the media
since too often our elected officials feed us half-truths
or misleading statements. But you, the media, are THERE, face-to-face, as the public's representative to get the story. You are the ones who can get to the truth.
So often I come away from the evening news or daily paper frustrated with the questions never asked, the statements not challenged and important information not made available to the public.
I often perceive a degree of collusion between the media
and politicians, sensing that reporters know the boundaries
they cannot go beyond, fearing they will no longer get within the political inner circle.
I don't ask you to be abrasive, cynical, or rude. But I do request you provide clear inciteful answers to the public.
The issues of today are complex and need more detailed reporting for the public to truly understand what politicians are feeding us.
As an example, balancing the budget, what does this mean?
Will our debt be erased or reduced by the time we reach
the year the budget is balanced? If not, how much will
our total debt be? And does it even matter given the
amount of 'income' our taxes provide?
Yet we allow politicians to 'explain' such topics, without
actually telling the American public what they need to understand.
A politician's (I no longer refer to them as elected officials) objective is to build himself up at the expense
of his opponent. Every speech defining a position also steps
on that of a political adversary. And the media feeds on this because its 'news'!
But sadly, while thousands of feet of video tape is used to
'report' this worthless diatribe, important issues do not get the full measure they deserve.
We allow them to fill the airwaves and newspapers with
sound bites meant more to incite and divide rather than solve problems.
Statements such as 'the rich don't pay their fair share'
are never followed with how much is fair?
Last year's health care reform effort did not have a realistic chance once the Administration decided to create
demons of the insurance and drug industry. The media never challenged why these two industries were being picked on, while both hospitals and doctors avoided similar criticism.
And with the dismal state of our public school system the media does not seek solutions aside from 'spending more money'.
But in this commentary I offer a suggestion (and challenge) that would not only benefit the public but also the media industry itself.
Very simply, become creative. Produce more in-depth news programs for the prime time audience. If Koeppel's
program gets the ratings it does at 11:30, think of how
much higher the rating would be earlier in the evening.
Prime time programming is such a waste, most networks
piggy-backing on whatever 'sells', and we send a stream
of comedies, police, medical, or whatever is in favor.
Networks rarely seek to educate viewers, a responsibility that clearly should be in the charter of the news division.
Anthony J. Bruno
July 7, 1995
From the article it is obvious the networks have
problems, but have yet to make the changes needed
to meet the demands of there 'customers'.
I doubt they sense what is important to viewers.
There is such a sameness to network reports. None of
them offer a quality of reporting that sets them apart.
They are driven by advertising dollars, not by good journalism and still retain an arrogance from their
'glory days' and act as though the world has not
changed since there arrival in the 50s.
What is occurring to network news today happened to
the American auto industry in the 70s. The competition
has filled the void by providing better journalism,
with a creativity the networks do not offer, and a
greater respect for the viewing public.
The networks still believe in packaging, rather than
the contents within. I say this not to disparage the anchors, since each is a quality newsperson. But
somewhere the journalistic compass has shifted and
the networks are less than they can be, and the public
is poorer for it.
What will it take to fix the problem? One word, boldness.
One network must be bold, daring, and not limit itself
to the old rules. That is what is needed.
With all the money being spent to promote themselves
I find it amazing how little creativity is displayed.
Real creativity, not eye-catching graphics; creative,
honest journalism.
This problem is not necessarily the fault of the media
since too often our elected officials feed us half-truths
or misleading statements. But you, the media, are THERE, face-to-face, as the public's representative to get the story. You are the ones who can get to the truth.
So often I come away from the evening news or daily paper frustrated with the questions never asked, the statements not challenged and important information not made available to the public.
I often perceive a degree of collusion between the media
and politicians, sensing that reporters know the boundaries
they cannot go beyond, fearing they will no longer get within the political inner circle.
I don't ask you to be abrasive, cynical, or rude. But I do request you provide clear inciteful answers to the public.
The issues of today are complex and need more detailed reporting for the public to truly understand what politicians are feeding us.
As an example, balancing the budget, what does this mean?
Will our debt be erased or reduced by the time we reach
the year the budget is balanced? If not, how much will
our total debt be? And does it even matter given the
amount of 'income' our taxes provide?
Yet we allow politicians to 'explain' such topics, without
actually telling the American public what they need to understand.
A politician's (I no longer refer to them as elected officials) objective is to build himself up at the expense
of his opponent. Every speech defining a position also steps
on that of a political adversary. And the media feeds on this because its 'news'!
But sadly, while thousands of feet of video tape is used to
'report' this worthless diatribe, important issues do not get the full measure they deserve.
We allow them to fill the airwaves and newspapers with
sound bites meant more to incite and divide rather than solve problems.
Statements such as 'the rich don't pay their fair share'
are never followed with how much is fair?
Last year's health care reform effort did not have a realistic chance once the Administration decided to create
demons of the insurance and drug industry. The media never challenged why these two industries were being picked on, while both hospitals and doctors avoided similar criticism.
And with the dismal state of our public school system the media does not seek solutions aside from 'spending more money'.
But in this commentary I offer a suggestion (and challenge) that would not only benefit the public but also the media industry itself.
Very simply, become creative. Produce more in-depth news programs for the prime time audience. If Koeppel's
program gets the ratings it does at 11:30, think of how
much higher the rating would be earlier in the evening.
Prime time programming is such a waste, most networks
piggy-backing on whatever 'sells', and we send a stream
of comedies, police, medical, or whatever is in favor.
Networks rarely seek to educate viewers, a responsibility that clearly should be in the charter of the news division.
Anthony J. Bruno
Are we fools?
"Fool Me Once...."
Dec. 10, 1995
Are most of you reading this a fool? Do you believe
you are? Probably not. Even those of us not
'sophisticated' or 'knowledgeable' is not a fool.
Yet every day we are fed stories on the news and
statements by politicians that presume we are.
Let's start with politicians, our elected officials.
They step forward to serve the American people and
agree to do the important work all citizens depend on.
They must make the difficult, unpopular decisions that
often catch our wrath. And to counter our displeasure politicians take us into the world of 'spin', the word
they use (but not to us directly) to temper our anger.
Spin, called LIES outside Washington, is what we are
fed each day as politicians attempt to persuade us to
their way of thinking. Mindless answers to legitimate questions. Distortion of facts, never showing the entire picture as they sell their viewpoint. It is a style we
have become accustomed to. We demand more, but our
demands are meaningless. Our EMPLOYEES set the agenda
until we fire them, as we did to so many last November.
Now for the media, who are also at fault for the quality
of the news we receive. Too often it appears they forget THEIR main responsibility, objective reporting. But they
are paid for the number of people they deliver the news
to, not for the news they deliver. And no matter what
they say or write, they will be criticized as being bias.
So where are we? The politicians say the press is not
fair. And the press say the politicians are not forthright in explaining legislation to the public.
So we sit, we listen, we become disgusted with politicians
who seem to have personal agendas rather that fulfilling
their responsibilities. And get equally annoyed with the
industry that care more about 'market share' than the
service they provide.
And as a result of our disgust and annoyance we become dis-enfranchised. Many of us stop caring, become indifferent
and often stop voting.
But we have a choice. By recognizing the problem we get closer to a solution; if we use our outrage to our advantage. LISTEN to the news and use our wonderful
ability to reason, to understand, to use our own common sense. If it sounds like 'spin', it probably is. Don't
let OUR employees not fulfill their responsibilities.
And to those who remain indifferent, maybe you are fools after all.
Anthony J. Bruno
Dec. 10, 1995
Are most of you reading this a fool? Do you believe
you are? Probably not. Even those of us not
'sophisticated' or 'knowledgeable' is not a fool.
Yet every day we are fed stories on the news and
statements by politicians that presume we are.
Let's start with politicians, our elected officials.
They step forward to serve the American people and
agree to do the important work all citizens depend on.
They must make the difficult, unpopular decisions that
often catch our wrath. And to counter our displeasure politicians take us into the world of 'spin', the word
they use (but not to us directly) to temper our anger.
Spin, called LIES outside Washington, is what we are
fed each day as politicians attempt to persuade us to
their way of thinking. Mindless answers to legitimate questions. Distortion of facts, never showing the entire picture as they sell their viewpoint. It is a style we
have become accustomed to. We demand more, but our
demands are meaningless. Our EMPLOYEES set the agenda
until we fire them, as we did to so many last November.
Now for the media, who are also at fault for the quality
of the news we receive. Too often it appears they forget THEIR main responsibility, objective reporting. But they
are paid for the number of people they deliver the news
to, not for the news they deliver. And no matter what
they say or write, they will be criticized as being bias.
So where are we? The politicians say the press is not
fair. And the press say the politicians are not forthright in explaining legislation to the public.
So we sit, we listen, we become disgusted with politicians
who seem to have personal agendas rather that fulfilling
their responsibilities. And get equally annoyed with the
industry that care more about 'market share' than the
service they provide.
And as a result of our disgust and annoyance we become dis-enfranchised. Many of us stop caring, become indifferent
and often stop voting.
But we have a choice. By recognizing the problem we get closer to a solution; if we use our outrage to our advantage. LISTEN to the news and use our wonderful
ability to reason, to understand, to use our own common sense. If it sounds like 'spin', it probably is. Don't
let OUR employees not fulfill their responsibilities.
And to those who remain indifferent, maybe you are fools after all.
Anthony J. Bruno
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