Answers on Iran
[Editor’s note: This letter arrived the day before a deal was reached in negotiations]. I am still waiting! For some time now I’ve been asking for an explanation of why the world seems to be so adamant and reluctant to having Iran possess a nuclear weapon. Whether they do, or don’t, doesn’t seem all that much of a problem compared to the time, cost, and ill feelings the current negotiations is stirring up.
One of the few things that the NRA says that I agree with is “it is not possession of a weapon that is important, it is the use that weapon is put to.” I recognize there is some evidence that the Iranians have fostered some terror and that they are certainly not fond of Israel, but neither do I think they are as stupid as the (counter) negotiators seem to think they are. Seems to me that the negotiators are more than a little over burdened with paranoia and the super protection of both Israel and the Saudis. Add to this that the world already has such nations with sterling characters as South Africa, North Korea, Israel, Pakistan, and India who already possess nuclear arms. And to add to the problem, it is America who is mostly being blamed
As have a lot of things since 1968, the rhymes and rules of nuclear weaponry have changed. Proved effective in the Cold War where it was never used because of its effectiveness, I would think that the threat of immediate retaliation would be a large consideration in the “negotiations” and perhaps in an amendment to the 1968 treaty. And the changes in world philosophy and economics need to also be considered. No major economic power could afford to destroy the purchasing power of its major trading partner(s). Frankly, I don’t worry much about terrorist nukes both because they can be identified and reacted-to with retaliation on the source. Biggest problem I can see is the lack of courage to fire the second one. Yes, there may well be enormous casualties, but that may be the lesser of evils.
In my heart, though, a major problem lies with the fact that my beloved country is continually being placed in the position of telling Iran they must do things that would be completely unacceptable if our roles were reversed. Using the context of our Constitution the Iranians are being asked to do things that we consider well outside of another country’s business. Considering the pressure exerted by the other negotiating countries, it is as if my America is being included in a blackmail plot rather that a rational and reasonable plan for aiding world peace. Or maybe the world should simply eliminate North Korea as an example!
Guff Worth, Lakeport
Strategic Thinking
I propose that Gov. Moonbeam combine the costly bullet train with the expensive water tunnels by utilizing high-speed submarines. This should save billions of tax dollars that can then be used to change the planet’s weather.
Ed Calkins, Kelseyville
A Monumental Celebration
On Saturday morning I had the thrilling experience of watching the sun rise over a national monument — from my own house!
By creating the Berryessa Snow Mountain national monument, President Obama has assured that the extraordinary biological diversity at the wild heart of the Inner Coast Range will be protected forever. Its remarkable geology, ancient cultural resources, outstanding recreational opportunities, dramatic scenic vistas — all of these wonders will be protected forever. In building his own conservation legacy the president is also doing something much more momentous: he is establishing a legacy for our children and grandchildren and everyone who comes after them.
This achievement is truly cause for jubilation, and for gratitude for the leadership and vision shown by the President, Senators Boxer and Feinstein, Congressmen Thompson, Garamendi and Huffman, State Senators Wolk and McGuire, Assemblymembers Dodd, Wood, and Levine, and all the local elected officials, businesses, organizations and individuals who have made this long-cherished objective a reality.
Please join me in sending a message of thanks by clicking the link at the top of the Sierra Club Redwood Chapter home page, sierraclub.org/redwood.
Victoria Brandon, Chair, Sierra Club Redwood Chapter
Predictive text
Holy glitch, Batman! Some mysterious force yesterday threw a spanner into the wheels of the New York Stock Exchange, United Airlines and The Record-Bee!
My letter on theocracies was Not closed with “God bless America,” but with “Goddess bless America!”
The point being made was that a democracy allows for anyone’s personal beliefs, whereas, in a theocracy, non-believers and those with other than the prevailing religion are marginalized, persecuted and powerless citizens.
I’m looking forward to celebrating Bastille Day, an event that helped lead our nation to be successful for 239 years!
Wendy White, Glenhaven
The same
[Regarding Carolyn Hawley’s letter entitled, “Enough,” (Record-Bee 07/09)]:
Ditto!
Hank Porter, Lakeport
