OpinionJuly 11, 2008

The decision maker

In a letter to the editor on July 4 listing our blessings, a writer said, "President Bush isn't the one to blame." I take umbrage at that, not to condemn the president, but to praise him.

President Truman put a sign on his desk that read, "The Buck Stops Here." Mr. Truman's sign didn't say anything that every president before him and after him knew was and is endemic in the position of leadership. Everyone makes mistakes - even presidents. It is the mark of a good and honorable man to accept responsibility for his decisions - good and bad. George Bush has acknowledged this responsibility when he told the American people and the world, "I am the decision maker," a statement that echoes the truth of Harry Truman's sign: The president (as with all other leaders great and small) is responsible for what happens under his watch.

I would ask those who would gloss over any president's mistakes to give that president the opportunity to show his honor and dignity by acknowledging his responsibility for all of his decisions and actions (a tremendous test of character for anyone)- as this president has already done.

Bob NewbreMoscow

Used car anyone?

Barack H. Obama is an attractive, charismatic, narcissistic, gifted orator. He is also a world-class phony. Obama claims he is an agent of change and able to get things accomplished. In his career in politics he has introduced one bill. This proposal would place a tax on the gross national product of the United States for the purpose of relieving poverty through the world. Its cost is estimated to approach $1 trillion by 2015.

Obama claims he'll be a unifier, allowing him to accomplish change. His close association with Pastor Wright, who has been seen on television damning the United States; Father Pfleger, who has been seen on television blaming "whitey" for the problems of the blacks; the church membership who enthusiastically cheered the anti-U.S., anti-white speeches; and Bill Ayers, who was an unrepentant terrorist of the 1960s: All represent attitudes that will make it difficult for Obama to unify any group.

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Listen to Obama's speeches. What is he saying? The same old stuff that we've heard from the Democrats for over 50 years.

So why has he reached the position he now occupies? As Obama is the first black to win the nomination to run for president, and as he is so liberal, he's getting a free pass from the press. He has shown he's uncomfortable around those who have worked with their hands, and have love for their church and family and their God-given rights. I wouldn't buy a used car from him. I don't trust him.

James H. StevensAsotin

View blocked by rock

I haven't written about the pile of rock in front of the Royal Plaza for a year or two, but it is time again.

One wonders about the management of the Port of Lewiston, which was given the rock by Regence Blue- Shield. During construction at the plaza recently, the port was approached about selling the rock, but they didn't. Since apparently they didn't need the money, they have to be doing nicely on the tax money they get from Lewiston residents.

Perhaps I am misjudging the port managers. Maybe they are going to be generous and donate that rock to Habitat for Humanity. If not for them, then maybe they will place on that pile a sign that says "Free rock." Then people could go with pails or pickups and get this material. Wouldn't that be generous, and the plaza would profit by getting to see the Lewiston Hill again.

Lillian MartinLewiston

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