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St. Louis Post-Dispatch

Lee Enterprises

Thursday, October 1, 2009 9:00 PM CDT
LETTER: President should require young people to serve

JOHN PHIPPS, Mattoon

Dear Mr. President,

Since my family has been Republican since the Civil War and I am a veteran of World War II and Korea, I did not vote for you the last time.

However, five years ago at Lake Land College in Mattoon I did have the privilege of meeting you and talking with you briefly. I was impressed. Your mind and philosophy is the closest to Abraham Lincoln I know. So I did vote for you for Illinois senator.

You are my president and you have my full support in your difficult agenda. However, I have heard no mention of the program I feel is the most important of all. You and I both remember John Kennedy’s statement, “Ask not what your country can do for you. Ask what you can do for your country.”

I feel it vital that all our young people be required to serve their country for a given period to help them prepare for the future —- Not necessarily in the armed forces, but some government-supported field such as John Kennedy started. All young men and many women were called on in World War II and that is one of the main reasons the great generation was so successful.

What are the benefits? They would gain extra maturity. Their patriotism would be reinforced. All involved would be bound to absorb some discipline and self control. Their knowledge of the history of this wonderful country would increase.

Enforced habits would benefit both their health and hygiene. And they would learn to get along with and benefit from equal association with other races and cultures.

What more could any president ask than 50 or 100 years from now historians would say “The greatest thing President Obama did was to train America’s youth to prepare for their future and the future of their country.”

As you know other countries have similar and successful programs. Specifically some of the Scandinavian countries, Switzerland, and Israel.

Back down to earth. I do not expect that whichever one of your staffers reads this letter will permit it to reach your desk. Therefore I do not expect any answer.

Yes there would be tremendous opposition to this idea as there is to every good program. Abraham Lincoln’s answer would be “What is right?”

However, I consider it my duty to make every effort I can to push what I am sure would be a great opportunity for you.

JOHN PHIPPS

Mattoon

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Becky wrote on Oct 2, 2009 7:18 AM:

" Mr. Phipps, being such a patriot you should be aware that your entire idea is UNCONSTITUTIONAL!!!

13th Amendment: . Neither slavery nor INVOLUNTARY SERVITUDE, except as a punishment for crime whereof the party shall have been duly convicted, shall exist within the United States, or any place subject to their jurisdiction. "

HeinekenMan wrote on Oct 2, 2009 8:04 AM:

" Mr. Phipps, I think you'll be happy to know that Obama has, in fact, proposed a program for community service. Here the details from the president's own Web site. Keep in mind that some of what he proposes requires approval by Congress, and they are currently involved in health care reform, two wars, economic recovery and several other issues. And Obama has been in office for less than a year. But he's already made speeches about public service.

America Serves

"When you choose to serve -- whether it's your nation, your community or simply your neighborhood -- you are connected to that fundamental American ideal that we want life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness not just for ourselves, but for all Americans. That's why it's called the American dream."

As the new administration takes shape, Barack Obama and Joe Biden will call on Americans from every walk of life to serve. President-elect Obama and Vice President-elect Biden will expand national service programs like AmeriCorps and the Peace Corps and will create new service organizations to meet the nation's challenges head on:

* a Classroom Corps to help underserved schools
* a Health Corps to serve in the nation's clinics and hospitals
* a Clean Energy Corps to achieve the goal of energy independence
* a Veterans Corps to support the Americans who serve by standing in harm's way

Obama and Biden will call on citizens of all ages to serve. They'll set a goal that all middle school and high school students engage in 50 hours of community service a year, and develop a plan for all college students who engage in 100 hours of community service to receive a fully-refundable tax credit of $4,000 for their education. Obama and Biden will encourage retiring Americans to serve by improving programs available for individuals over age 55, while at the same time promoting youth programs such as Youth Build and Head Start.

The Obama-Biden administration's volunteer initiatives are still taking shape, but take a moment now to let us know that you're interested, and we'll keep you posted on all the latest developments. "

The Question wrote on Oct 2, 2009 8:51 AM:

" Phipps is advocating slavery by another name. The United States government is not supposed to own the lives of its citizens. It's supposed to be the other way around. "

father bob wrote on Oct 2, 2009 9:30 AM:

" the rightwing doesn't want a work ethic instilled in their little prince and princesses. "

theproletariat87 wrote on Oct 2, 2009 11:23 AM:

" I agree but not for the patriotism aspect. I am not a patriot, I'm a humanist. I think that kids should be part of some public service for 2 years out of highschool. Whether it be military, community service, peace corps, green peace, because it brings poor with rich, black, tan, white all together. I don't think that people should be forced to either, give them incentives to do so. More money for college for example. "

Danny Boy wrote on Oct 2, 2009 1:24 PM:

" I think we should be like Israel.
Age 18
Military Service.

Maybe the spoiled kids in America would get off the couch, with their "Wii player", and "ipods", and appreciate what they now take for granted!!.......

and yes I served, U.S.M.C, and we were not white,black, or hispanic, we were all one color....O.D. Green!! "

Jim1969 wrote on Oct 2, 2009 1:24 PM:

" I will go so far as to say that service to one's community should be strongly encouraged but to require it goes too far.

Of course in this day it seems you take a risk of getting in trouble for trying to do a good deed for your neighbors. Anyone recall the story this past summer of the man in NYC who attempted to help the city catch up on some mowing in Central Park. "

NeoCon Academician wrote on Oct 2, 2009 1:43 PM:

" " the rightwing doesn't want a work ethic instilled in their little prince and princesses. "
--------------------------

Yeah, because we rightwingers want our "government hand-outs" too...and just like the ones you liberals have given out. "

NeoCon Academician wrote on Oct 2, 2009 1:52 PM:

" Jawohl! Gen. Phipps....

And hey...I know...there's already a model that we can use...it's from the 1930's...

....the Hitler Jugend (Youth).

But we can call ours.... the Obama Youth!

From 1936, membership of the Hitler Jugend was compulsory for all young German men.

The HJ was organized into corps under adult leaders, and the general membership comprised boys aged fourteen to eighteen.

Ahhhh.... just more proof you "democrats" are socialists....

....if it walks like a duck, and quacks like a duck...you betcha...it's a (national) socialist democrat! "

soybeanpod wrote on Oct 2, 2009 2:08 PM:

" (my first letter was erased-but maybe sent-here is what I would like)

General Phipps makes a very good point. Service to our country can take many forms besides the military. The Peace Corps is one venue the young person today for instance, can choose.

I was in the Guard when General Phipps was the Adjutant General. I was in my third year at college and had drawn number 5 in the draft lottery. I was not the most gung ho member of our unit, but proudly served, and frankly, after my 6 years, was glad I had served, and still am. Thankfully, I have other accomplishments I am more grateful to have, family being one.

I am celebrating my 60th birthday this month. Time has gone so fast. But if it weren't for public service and in fact the draft at times, we might be eating sushi and sauerkraut much more often than we do now.

General Phipps thank you for what you have done. Also, I can say I never voted for Obama, but your friends in Kansas still say Hello. "

Beaches wrote on Oct 2, 2009 2:22 PM:

" Father Bob, perhaps I would take you more seriously if you would suggest a fix for these things and not just quip short sarcastic comments. "

HeinekenMan wrote on Oct 2, 2009 2:32 PM:

" By the way, I disagree with this idea that community service equals slavery. I think my wife's high school would agree. They already require community service from students enrolled in the honor's program. Part of preparing young people for adulthood involves teaching them the importance of volunteering and serving their communities. If that equals slavery, then so does making my son learn spelling words. "

Mattooner at Heart wrote on Oct 2, 2009 3:39 PM:

" father bob wrote on Oct 2, 2009 9:30 AM:

" the rightwing doesn't want a work ethic instilled in their little prince and princesses. "

Bob . . . you're kidding, right? Please tell me you are. "

father bob wrote on Oct 2, 2009 5:13 PM:

" Mattooner at Heart wrote on Oct 2, 2009 3:39 PM:
"Bob . . . you're kidding, right? Please tell me you are. """""

hehehehe....you can recognize sarcasm? good for you! i just love to get the righties all fired up! "

~STRANGER~ wrote on Oct 2, 2009 5:37 PM:

" Take the down around Lincoln Log Cabin and make them pull stinky weeds!
I'll supervise. "

Mattooner at Heart wrote on Oct 2, 2009 5:58 PM:

" I remember John Kennedy's inauguration address in 1961 wherein he said "ASK what you can do for your country." The key here is "ask" - not "comply with what is required" of you to do for your country.

We were founded on those who *willingly* gave of themselves and we have been sustained through several wars and other hardships by those who *willingly* gave of themselves - Mr. Phipps included. We should all be grateful for those sacrifices and I - for one - am extremely grateful.

True, I believe we should all do what we can to further our country's values, principles, etc., but to *require* it - I believe - steps a little over the line.

I could go on and on about how our society has changed or how it's now a "me first" attitude, etc., but I'm afraid the days of unselfish volunteerism are gone. So are the days of a general feeling of sacrificing for one's country. And I feel it's unfortunate.

But still - to *require* service to one's country is not unlike conscription - even though it's not necessarily a military environment into which one is conscripted.

I wish everyone *wanted* to serve their country - but that's just not reality any more. "

The Question wrote on Oct 2, 2009 7:03 PM:

" MANDATORY "community service" IS slavery. Forced labor is slavery. "

AnnaNiemaus wrote on Oct 2, 2009 9:26 PM:

" ~STRANGER~ wrote on Oct 2, 2009 5:37 PM:
" Take the down around Lincoln Log Cabin and make them pull stinky weeds!
I'll supervise. "

I think the Sheriff's Department beat you to it. "

Big T wrote on Oct 2, 2009 10:55 PM:

" While I agree that all citizens should give of themselves for the better good, I do not feel it should be required. The President should impress upon the parents how important it is to lead by example. Their children would greatly benefit from volunteering in their community. Many of our young citizens lack the sense of community which existed not so long ago.
And to a man I am honored to consider my friend, John Phipps, thank you so much for all your contributions to making this a great nation, state and community! "

jrhendren wrote on Oct 2, 2009 11:38 PM:

" The Question wrote on Oct 2, 2009 8:51 AM:
" Phipps is advocating slavery by another name. The United States government is not supposed to own the lives of its citizens. It's supposed to be the other way around. "

To bad those in government positions, on both sides of the aisle, forget that as soon as they are done taking the oath. How quick they forget they work for us, not us for them. "

EIUstudent68 wrote on Oct 3, 2009 12:14 AM:

" Youth... serve.... sounds like 1930's Nazi Germany... called the Hitler Youth... Obama Youth???? Not my children! "

The Question wrote on Oct 3, 2009 6:24 AM:

" I've got a better idea. Instead of enslaving young Americans, we could force some "community service" out of the real parasites in our society, senior citizens. We could start by getting some useful forced labor out of retired martinet generals who are already in favor of enslaving other people. "

cedric66 wrote on Oct 3, 2009 7:03 AM:

" father bob wrote on Oct 2, 2009 5:13 PM:

" Mattooner at Heart wrote on Oct 2, 2009 3:39 PM:
"Bob . . . you're kidding, right? Please tell me you are. """""

hehehehe....you can recognize sarcasm? good for you! i just love to get the righties all fired up! "

All it shows is that you are still sitting on your brains again if you really do have any!!! "

shumphreys wrote on Oct 3, 2009 8:08 AM:

" M@H the "days of unselfish volunteerism" aren't completely gone. Those volunteers are certainly fewer in number but they are still there. I was the chairman of the "Trial and Tribulations" historical program in Oakland Sept. 18 and 19. 40 people helped put on each program each day. The food pantries in this area are still staffed partially if not entirely be volunteers. Boy and Girl Scout and 4-H Club leaders still lead their minions. I think Obamas ideas for expanding community service work programs is a good one. Those folks don't get paid nearly what their labor would fetch on the open market and the experience can be life changing. "

willowhall wrote on Oct 3, 2009 8:46 AM:

" Mr.Phipps, I can't help but agree with TQ on this. And in my personal opinion, how much growth and maturity would our children get by being forced to support a cause they may or may not believe in. Are we not in fact taking the freedom of belief at that point, not to mention freedom of choice. Should we really go against everything that this country was built on, everything it is suppose to stand for? So we increase the knowledge of the history of our country by changing what it was built on? That does not seem right to me at all. "

The Question wrote on Oct 3, 2009 10:30 AM:

" Too bad those in government positions, on both sides of the aisle, forget that as soon as they are done taking the oath. How quick they forget they work for us, not us for them.
---
When you're right, you're right, jr. The sick irony of "serving" the land of the free through forced labor seems to be lost on a number of people. "

NeoCon Academician wrote on Oct 3, 2009 11:01 AM:

" HEY...I'VE GOT A NOVEL IDEA.....

Rather than mandating that youths volunteer for community service...

...let's drop the federal minimum wage...and let "the market" determine the value of our youths labor to our economy...all while providing an "invaluable" service to our communities with their work!!!!

Is that a crazy idea OR WHAT!?!?

Small business owners would be able to hire more employees...most 16 to 24 yos. are employed in minial labor/minimum wage jobs anyway (http://www.bls.gov/cps/minwage2008.htm).

Doing this would pump more money into the economy...because more kids were working they WOULDN'T BE SO FAT...our "brown brothers and sisters" from across our southern border wouldn't be encouraged to cross the border illegally to do the jobs that lazy Americans wouldn't do...and our kids would learn the value of a dollar!

WOW...what a brainstorm from, moi!

I may just have to change my blog moniker from NEOCON ACADEMICIAN to...

...THE ANSWER!!!!! (haha haha haha) "

TruckerTom wrote on Oct 3, 2009 12:00 PM:

" First of all I thought this was a FREE country,the the right to choose. But the main objective of our current administration is to control or lives, money, jobs, health care and anything else they can think of.
He's come up with this serve America junk... I serve my country by keeping you all in food. I run 3000 miles a week and put in 60 to 70 hours a week. enough said. This president and members of congress is leading us down the wrong road. Destruction within. "

nonews wrote on Oct 3, 2009 3:55 PM:

" To the Question.
I know where Retired Gen Phipps is comming from.I was a fairly wild child in my youth. I joined the service in 1968 at that time you joined or got drafted. Not only did the service teach me respect for others but also me to respect myself and what I could accomplish. So your term of slavery is stupid!! In Norway every "kid" knows that they will serve their country for 6 months and then the choicewas theirs to go to school or what ever and I never heard 1 of them complain, They understood that was an obligation expected of them. Perhaps the diseplend they learned keeps the country saffer think about it! Disaplend has dissappeared in this country "

Locke wrote on Oct 3, 2009 4:51 PM:

" "Since my family has been Republican since the Civil War..."

I'm sorry to hear that.

Abraham Lincoln destroyed the vision of the Founding Fathers by creating Leviathan. He was the first president to adopt conscription and created a larger, more obstrusive government -- just as you suggest with your ideas concerning complusory service.

This, like Lincoln's policies, are anti-American. "

Danny Boy wrote on Oct 3, 2009 5:32 PM:

" Oh quit your complaining, even Elvis served when he got drafted......

Is it wrong to serve your country now?
you folks are a bunch of bigots and hypocrites. and I would bet the farm than less than 20% of you ever served your country, ever!!.....You make me sick !! "

what wrote on Oct 4, 2009 1:02 AM:

" I'm glad the EIU kids pick up trash along the roads, they don't really have to after all. "

Harry Potter wrote on Oct 4, 2009 9:57 AM:

" Is that a crazy idea OR WHAT!?!?

In a word: YES

But then again crazy might describe most of your ideas, neo. lol! "

The Question wrote on Oct 4, 2009 12:02 PM:

" "Disaplend has dissappeared in this country. "
---
Apparently so, because the discipline you claim to have learned in the military did not teach you how to spell the terms "disappear" or "safer" or "discipline."
If you learned respect there, where is your respect for the English language? Confused writing is the hallmark of confused thinking. "

Jim1969 wrote on Oct 4, 2009 4:05 PM:

" Reading through the comments it does not seem there is any disagreement about serving one's community is some fashion. The argument is about requiring service.

Most forms of community service is voluntary with no pay. If service is required and there is no pay involved then this is a form of slavery. If the people are paid for their service then how much anger is there going to be over the increased taxes that are sure to follow in order to pay these people.

There are many ways to encourage and promote service to one's community, be it city, state, or national, that does not require "forcing" people into it or making it a prerequisite before they can move on to "bigger and better" things. "

what wrote on Oct 4, 2009 11:51 PM:

" A lot of people were drafted into military service in the 1960's. They served, many died, many more were maimed, all for naught, foolishness. "

slap63 wrote on Oct 5, 2009 10:39 AM:

" The Question wrote:
"MANDATORY "community service" IS slavery. Forced labor is slavery. "

It's also a cop out for doing time for the crimes they commit. Hey, here's an idea.. all of those theives, druggies and child abusers go over and work the front lines. Solves some problems of overcrowding and repeat offenders.

This country lacks values. Some kids can not clearly see right from wrong anymore. There are too many feelings of "entitlement". And we just keep on complaining about how things are but never seeing what really needs to be done. It's always about "my rights" not "What's right". I am truly fearful for the world my child is going to have to live in and raise children in. It's bad enough now. I can't imagine the way of life and thinking in 20 years. "

cedric66 wrote on Oct 5, 2009 2:00 PM:

" Chicago iliminated In The First Round Of Voting in Copenhagen!!! Hooray, there is some sense in the world.

Somebody add up the cost of all the planes, and transporting all the limos, etc. wasted, wasted, wasted!!

Obama fiddles in Copenhagen while Afghanistan "burns" and our troops die. "

shumphreys wrote on Oct 5, 2009 2:39 PM:

" Technically Slap63 folks in this country have plenty of values, there is NO lack of values. The issue is about WHAT people value. Respect for ALL regardless their race, religion, etc. or ONLY respect for my kind, those that believe what I believe? A desire to help others get a leg up or a helping hand when times are tough or an attitude of "I had to work for what I have so should you"? An attitude of "I disapprove of the choices you have made and will see that you are punished for them" or an attitude that "it doesn't matter whether I approve of the choices you have made, what can I do to help you make more productive and responsible choices in the future"? There is NO end to the values people hold in this country. "

father bob wrote on Oct 5, 2009 3:16 PM:

" i do think public service hours need to be a part of any school curriculum the same as any other mandatory class such as english and math. i think it needs to start in middle school and continue. "

father bob wrote on Oct 5, 2009 3:17 PM:

" praise be to Allah! "

Harry Potter wrote on Oct 5, 2009 5:44 PM:

" " i do think public service hours need to be a part of any school curriculum the same as any other mandatory class such as english and math. i think it needs to start in middle school and continue. "

I agree, fb. Unfortunately, Service learning, as it's commonly called, has failed to catch on in this area as it has in other places. The only school in the area that makes it mandatory in this area is Sullivan. I believe some other area schools offer it as an elective. Some colleges are now requiring applicants to include a "community service" resume along with their transcripts when applying. I believe Millikin University in Decatur started that a few years ago. Has this concept caught on in NM? "

cedric66 wrote on Oct 5, 2009 7:58 PM:

" father bob wrote on Oct 5, 2009 3:17 PM:

" praise be to Allah! "

worshiping false gods again, FB "

what? wrote on Oct 5, 2009 9:44 PM:

" Allah is God, well the one who told Abraham what the deal is anyway. "

jrhendren wrote on Oct 6, 2009 12:06 AM:

" what? wrote on Oct 5, 2009 9:44 PM:
" Allah is God, well the one who told Abraham what the deal is anyway. "

You might want to check your Scriptures again. "

Harry Potter wrote on Oct 6, 2009 6:21 AM:

" You need to do a little research next time, seedy. Allah was the word the ancients used for God long before the birth of Islam. You might be better off going with your non sourced cut and paste comments next time. "

Becky wrote on Oct 6, 2009 9:17 AM:

" I find many young people giving their time and efforts in helping others. Have all of you forgotten the phrase " When I do good no one remembers. When I do bad, no one forgets."? We have hundreds of young people helping in our community. The 4H, Boys and Girls scouts. Many volunteers at the Y, Camp New Hope, LLC, Eastern, our youth groups at local churces, food drives of our young. Why is it that even though none of you even recognize their efforts and appreciate all that they do, they still keep on doing good for our communities? Oh yeah, they're the ones who are cold and uncaring...sorry, my bad. "

~STRANGER~ wrote on Oct 6, 2009 10:50 AM:

" I agree with you Becky. plus Forgetting or just not caring seems to be the general consensus of people in this community,unless they recieve a monetary award. "

NeoCon Academician wrote on Oct 6, 2009 12:22 PM:

" " You need to do a little research next time, seedy. Allah was the word the ancients used for God long before the birth of Islam. You might be better off going with your non sourced cut and paste comments next time. "
---------------------------------

See folks...here's a perfect example of the condescension that comes from the "intellectually superior", "liberal elites".... (which in fact they are neither "intellectual", "superior" or "elite")as witnessed here.

I always love the simple, quick answers you libs give to everything even though there are often mountains of extenuating circumstances....

So now for some "education" for you, the apparently godless, Harry Potter....

The JUDEO-CHRISTIAN use of the word GOD comes from God saying, "I am Yahweh your God, (Yaweh = "I am" or "El") ( later used to refer to his son Yahshua for Jesus), then Eloh/Elah, and finally "Allah" associated with god in Islam.

The bible passage Exodus 3:15 says, "God (Yahweh), furthermore, said to Moses, "Thus you shall say to the sons of Israel, 'The LORD', the God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, has sent me to you. This is My name forever, and this is my memorial-name to all generations."

It is believed that this is the issue of differentiation between terms God and Allah. The differentiation started with the branching of the ancestral tree with Abram's (later Abraham) son Isaac with wife Sarah, and his son Isaac with his servant/slave Hagar (Abram and Sarah's kid - Judeo-Christianity) and Ishmael (Abram and Hagar's kid - Islam).

Note that there is no mention of anybody named Ismael in the exodux verse.

Islam's holy book, the Koran, refers to "Allah", in Semitic/Arabic terminology ("Arabic" stemming from the meaning "the desolate ones"- as in Hagar/Ishmael being cast off/desolate from Abraham and Sarah after Isaac was weaned, some Biblical inferences say Ishmael became a "wild man" because of this) as god, as "one who deserves to be worshiped".

So to make a long story short, the issue of whether "God" and "Allah" are the same really does come from a distinction involving belief systems. "

what wrote on Oct 6, 2009 8:47 PM:

" God made a covenent with Isaac that his offspring would inherit the land of milk and honey ie Canaan/Palistine. His grandchildren did so. God also promised Ishmael 11 prosperous tribes,the Arabs. Just as Jesus didn't deny the God of his fathers, neither did Mohammed 600 years later. They chose to interpret Him differently but single omnipotent God of Abraham is the basis of it all,call Him what you will. "

Harry Potter wrote on Oct 7, 2009 9:01 AM:

" NEW YORK President Barack Obama's approval ratings are starting to rise after declining ever since his inauguration, new poll figures show as the country's mood begins to brighten. But concerns about the economy, health care and war persist, and support for the war in Afghanistan is falling.

An Associated Press-GfK poll says 56 percent of those surveyed in the past week approve of Obama's job performance, up from 50 percent in September. It's the first time since he took office in January that his rating has gone up.
AP-

This in spite of the 24/7 barrage being fired at him from the Fox news network and the corporate led tea bag parties?
This just might send the boys and girls at Fox news into panic mode. Watch the spin on this one from the radio screamers. Limbaugh might have to pop a couple of Oxycontin pills just get through the day. If the numbers had gone down this dramatically, Fox on line would have used it as their featured headline of the day. I suspect they will ignore this story, as they usually do. They prefer to focus on the negative when it comes to this president or the Democratic party. "

shumphreys wrote on Oct 7, 2009 9:02 AM:

" Sorry NeoCon Harry is right the word ALlah was used in Mecca for a creator God before Mohammed. Don't know how far back the word goes. The word El was also the Cananite word for their top deity, and El is the word that appears in many early biblical verses. EL/God was the God of the Cananites before he became the top God of Israel. "

father bob wrote on Oct 7, 2009 9:55 AM:

" praise be to Allah!! "

caringmom wrote on Oct 7, 2009 10:59 AM:

" I agree with Becky also. I know plenty of youth in this community that have given much of their own personal time to volunteer for different causes. I personally have an 8 yr old that last year organized a clothing drive for a family that lost their home to a fire. She spent hours working on this project - at 7 yrs old!! She didn't ask for any recognition. All she wanted was to make sure that family had some nice clothes to wear. It angers me when people stereotype all children saying they are "lazy and unappreciative". They all are not that way. Unfortunately, the ones who DO try to give back never get any credit for it. I just hope my children are never discouraged to keep helping others. "

Harry Potter wrote on Oct 7, 2009 12:13 PM:

" Children learn their values from their parents. It obvious that you are indeed a caring mom. "

~STRANGER~ wrote on Oct 7, 2009 2:45 PM:

" "allah" more mooslum jargon. "

father bob wrote on Oct 7, 2009 3:51 PM:

" ~STRANGER~ wrote on Oct 7, 2009 2:45 PM:
" "allah" more mooslum jargon. """""

allah be with you! "

~STRANGER~ wrote on Oct 7, 2009 7:06 PM:

" Thanks father, but I already hang out with JESUS. "

Jim1969 wrote on Oct 8, 2009 5:54 AM:

" Many of you have a valid point in that many people do acts of community service quite often but their acts always go "unnoticed" in the bigger picture.

What about the person who mows the vacant lot next door to try to keep the neighborhood looking a little better and to keep the bugs in check. What about the child who goes out after a storm and helps clean up the yard of an elderly neighbor or shovels their drive and walk just to be nice. What about the people who visit nursing homes once a week just to offer company to those who may not have any. What about the person who takes the time to jump start someone's car after they left their lights on all day? Aren't these all acts of service? Why does it have to be 50 people getting together to build a house, or dig a well, or build a damn, or someone joining the armed forces before they or it is considered service? "

jrussell wrote on Oct 8, 2009 11:53 AM:

" the youth can serve the country just fine without picking up a gun Mr. Phipps, we choose to use our minds to solve problems which is a method of prevention, choosing to pick up a gun is cowardly, I respect the men who have fought for this country but the next step is preventing wars from ever starting, that is why we still learn about such history in school "

jrussell wrote on Oct 8, 2009 11:55 AM:

" Danny Boy wrote on Oct 2, 2009 1:24 PM:

" I think we should be like Israel.
Age 18
Military Service.

Maybe the spoiled kids in America would get off the couch, with their "Wii player", and "ipods", and appreciate what they now take for granted!!.......

and yes I served, U.S.M.C, and we were not white,black, or hispanic, we were all one color....O.D. Green!!

...if your kids are spoiled then you're a bad parent, plain and simple "

jrussell wrote on Oct 8, 2009 11:57 AM:

" the youth might feel more obliged to volunteer for community services if people like Mr. Phipps and people with his ideals didn't run the town the state the country etc. "

Harry Potter wrote on Oct 8, 2009 1:54 PM:

" Excellent comments, Jim1969 (@ 5:54 AM) "

Stanley Stetson wrote on Oct 8, 2009 2:47 PM:

" praise be to Allah!!

* need a job fathead bob * i need a new dispenser for my eatery toilets *

* it's a hopey changey thing *

* fist bump * "

Rohn Gordon wrote on Oct 8, 2009 3:48 PM:

" ...if your kids are spoiled then you're a bad parent, plain and simple "
Thats good jrussell another totally ignorant statement from you.
You can be broke and own nothing and still spoil your child. You can spoil your child with attention, respect, learning, manners, common sense (which you seem to have very little of) and most of all "LOVE" You do not have to give a child everything they want to spoil them. Any good parent will tell you this. "

Harry Potter wrote on Oct 8, 2009 4:19 PM:

" Hey father bob, looks like Doh is employed in the fast food business. Think it's McDonalds or Hardees? And here all along we thought it was WalMart. "

Harry Potter wrote on Oct 8, 2009 5:22 PM:

" For weeks now, Rush Limpo has been crowing over Obamas falling poll numbers. Today, upon learning that Obama's numbers had climbed 6 points, Limpo went into a 15 minute tirade about how the polls must be rigged and the questions just had to be slanted. Funny that Limpo didn't voice any of that when the polls showed Obama's numbers dropping. Old Rushie was so worked up over this issue that I suspect he's back on the drugs again. And speaking of political slant, I haven't seen one report from Fox about Obama's rising poll numbers. I wonder why that is? wink wink! "

father bob wrote on Oct 8, 2009 5:54 PM:

" Harry Potter wrote on Oct 8, 2009 4:19 PM:
" Hey father bob, looks like Doh is employed in the fast food business. Think it's McDonalds or Hardees? And here all along we thought it was WalMart. """""

praise be to Allah.... brother harry!

ever notice how the mouth breathers get all hopped up over those 4 words??!! "

what? wrote on Oct 8, 2009 10:54 PM:

" Allah doesn't know we invented him. "

patriot wrote on Oct 9, 2009 3:44 AM:

" I thought slavery was abolished in the 1860's! Funny you should quote the President who abolished it to support your Socialistic beliefs. No forced labor in America, sorry comrade. "

Harry Potter wrote on Oct 9, 2009 8:43 AM:

" ever notice how the mouth breathers get all hopped up over those 4 words??!! "

Yes, and I think they miss your point, fb. "

father bob wrote on Oct 9, 2009 9:52 AM:

" Harry Potter wrote on Oct 9, 2009 8:43 AM:
" ever notice how the mouth breathers get all hopped up over those 4 words??!! "

Yes, and I think they miss your point, fb. """"""

people with small minds can't comprehend. "

Harry Potter wrote on Oct 9, 2009 9:54 AM:

" While I see General Phipps idea as high minded as well as noble, I have to part company with him over the idea of making it mandatory. Our country doesn't have a very good track record for programs that are mandatory. By nature, I think we are a stubborn people. I would rather see the president continue to use his position that encourages young people to stay in school, apply themselves and excel. I think he has done that on the issue of education, even though he was lambasted for his wanting to address the nation's school children on that topic, and I would like to see him use the bully pulpit to encourage young people to become involved, and there is no better way than to volunteer in some type of community service. JFK's memorable words about doing for your country has have stood test of time, and are as relevant today as the day he spoke them. "

shumphreys wrote on Oct 9, 2009 2:08 PM:

" Gosh I wonder if Rush Limbaugh has just suffered a stroke or heart attack, Obama has received the Nobel Peace Prize. I thought I felt the earth shake as thousands of Limbaugh fans and their brethren turned over in their graves. "

NeoCon Academician wrote on Oct 9, 2009 3:41 PM:

" Our country doesn't have a very good track record for programs that are mandatory.
------------

Like the Postal Service....(perpetually in the red)

Amtrak...(perpetually in the red)

Medicaid/Medicare....(perpetually in the red)

Social Security ...(nearly bankrupt)

AND OBAMACARE!!! "

NeoCon Academician wrote on Oct 9, 2009 3:43 PM:

" I would rather see the president continue to use his position that encourages young people to stay in school, apply themselves and excel.
----------------------------

So young people can stay in school longer, like Obama Hmmm, Hmmm, Hmmm proposes, and be even more functionally illiterate when they get out.... "

Harry Potter wrote on Oct 9, 2009 4:13 PM:

" Looks like Sybil is back to stalking me. lol! "

father bob wrote on Oct 9, 2009 4:24 PM:

" NeoCon Academician wrote on Oct 9, 2009 3:43 PM:
"So young people can stay in school longer, like Obama Hmmm, Hmmm, Hmmm proposes, and be even more functionally illiterate when they get out.... """""

you mean be exposed to those BOOKS? actually using their minds for something more intellectually stimulating than Xbox?? yeah Neonut, you're right....a total waste of time and energy.

of course they can always get a job along side you at wal-mart. "

NeoCon Academician wrote on Oct 9, 2009 7:41 PM:

" " Looks like Sybil is back to stalking me. lol!"
---------------

Still looks like Harry Potter is getting his government pension check provided by the taxpayer and the bankrupt state of Illinois!" "

NeoCon Academician wrote on Oct 9, 2009 7:46 PM:

" of course they can always get a job along side you at wal-mart. "
-------

Po' Cannon (4F)odder Bob...

Why so crass? Why such a hater?

..."the ol' leg" acting up again? "

shumphreys wrote on Oct 12, 2009 3:06 PM:

" NeoCon your last post is about the most tasteless, crass thing you have ever posted. Have you no shame, no self-respect? Taunting war veterans about their injuries isn't a manyl thing to do. "

Harry Potter wrote on Oct 12, 2009 5:05 PM:

" " NeoCon your last post is about the most tasteless, crass thing you have ever posted. Have you no shame, no self-respect? Taunting war veterans about their injuries isn't a manyl thing to do. "

It's about par for him, Susan. "

jrhendren wrote on Oct 12, 2009 11:24 PM:

" shumphreys wrote on Oct 12, 2009 3:06 PM:
" NeoCon your last post is about the most tasteless, crass thing you have ever posted. Have you no shame, no self-respect? Taunting war veterans about their injuries isn't a manyl thing to do. "

Quick question, why did you not say anything about bob's comment about those working at wal-mart being illiterate? "

shumphreys wrote on Oct 13, 2009 2:32 PM:

" Because Mr. Hendren it isn't a nice thing to say but it isn't tasteless and crass. "

jrhendren wrote on Oct 13, 2009 11:44 PM:

" shumphreys wrote on Oct 13, 2009 2:32 PM:
" Because Mr. Hendren it isn't a nice thing to say but it isn't tasteless and crass. "

So calling people who are trying to make a living, a lot of whom are single mothers, illiterate isn't tasteless and crass? As usual you have your opinion and it is the only one allowed. Remarks against a veteran, if is, are wrong, but so is calling working people illiterate because you dislike where they work. "