TO THE EDITOR: The coalition of the willing still sounds quite a lot like "the coalition of the bought and paid for." Historically, we still keep a large military presence in Germany, 60 years later; we still keep a large military presence in Japan, 60 years later; we still keep a large military presence in Korea, 50 years later.
The only way this whole situation can make any kind of rational sense to me is the anticipation of a large U.S. military presence in Iraq for the next 50 or 60 years. This long-term presence will ensure the safe and peaceful existence of Israel.
Perhaps this is a worthwhile goal, if Israel is giving a similar guarantee to the Palestinians. But, just for the record, is Israel in violation of any United Nations resolutions?
Tom McDonough, West Chester
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Democrats haven't changed since 1860
The more things change; the more things stay the same. I cannot believe the behavior of the leaders of the Democrat Party. They seem to oppose the president simply because he is not a Democrat.
They oppose the president's vision of freedom and liberty for millions of people who live under an institution of oppression and harsh rule. I believe if they were in existence in 1860, they would have opposed President Lincoln and would have supported the institution of slavery. Oh, wait, they were in existence in 1860, they did oppose President Lincoln, and they did support the institution of slavery. Never mind.
Chuck Locy, Hyde Park
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Let's be sure this war is rational
I was one of the more than 2,000 "anti-war protesters" during President Bush's pro-war speech at Union Terminal.
I am not against a war that is reasonable and necessary. I have nothing but the greatest respect for all the fine men and women who are willing to put their lives on the line not only for America's freedom but also freedom around the world. For them, I go about promoting an international symbol of peace and all human rights with hopes that some say war could be in the past, or at least thought about first. I hope for all their sakes this future war is reasoned out.
Anthony Eversole, Clifton
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Trust juries to reward damages
Recently, President Bush expressed his complete confidence in the proposition that every one of the condemned prisoners on death row in Texas was guilty as charged and rightfully deserved to be put to death. Almost without exception, these individuals were convicted by and the decision to recommend the death penalty was made by a jury. By law, these decisions must have been made by the juries "beyond a reasonable doubt."
At the same time, Bush tells us that we must prohibit juries from compensating patients for "pain and suffering" damages in any amount greater than $250,000, because we cannot rely on jurors to make a fair and reasonable assessment of the evidence presented in the courtroom.
Does anyone else sense some sort of disconnect here?
William Knapp, Anderson Township
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Disagreement showed best of Fort Thomas
Recently our Lenten Bible Study group had cause to reflect on healing divisions in our community. Naturally the conversation turned to the recent school tax vote and the division it has caused in our community in Fort Thomas. With members of our group on both sides of the issue, we had a good discussion. Now it is time to focus on the many good reasons we choose to live in Fort Thomas. One need only read the March edition of Family Circle to learn of the outpouring of love, concern and help for a Fort Thomas family in need. Our churches are full as we gather for Lenten services and prepare for Easter. People from all parts of the city gather at Christmas for the Holiday Walk and tree lighting and will gather again for Fourth of July activities. Children from all schools, both parochial and public, play together on baseball, soccer, football and basketball teams, swim on swim teams in the summer, participate in Scout troops all year long and form lifelong friendships regardless of which school they attend.
Fort Thomas has always been and still is a great place to live. So, if you haven't done so yet, take down the blue ribbons, the caution tape, and the yard signs and focus on what we have in common.
Barb Haas, Fort Thomas, St. Catherine Thursday Morning Bible Study Group
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Bleeps don't hide
filth in the songs
This is regarding the article, "The rise of R-rated radio" (March 9). I'm 14 years old. When I was younger, I did not care what Eminem said his music was about. I also didn't know what his songs were about. I thought the words didn't matter. It was the beat of the music that I like.
When I was old enough to understand the words, I couldn't believe I had once wanted to listen to him. His words are so disturbing. He sings songs that degrade women, talk about suicide, and preach hatred toward people. Even 9- to 11-year-olds I know have listened to Eminem. I have heard them quote him. When I hear them talk that way, I know they are listening close enough to the words. So the bleeping is not helping to conceal the language or the meaning of the songs.
Christopher J. Day, Anderson Township
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Kudos to Ruby
for snubbing French
Kudos to Jeff Ruby for refusing to sell French wines and spirits in his restaurants.
It may have little effect on our current relationship with France, but it certainly makes a statement.
Fred C. Pottschmidt, Anderson Township
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Gift certificates
should never expire
Regarding the front-page March 6 article in the Business section, "Bill would stretch gift certificates. Ban sought on expiration," Sen. Robert Spada, has introduced legislation to ban expiration on gift certificates. I believe it would behoove corporations and small businesses for all states to do the same. Only five states restrict expiration; the states that allow expiration require that the unused money be turned over to the state's general revenue fund. C'mon, this is a no brainer. Keep your money and count on it.
Vickie Sweeney, Bellevue
