From Where I Stand: Step Six

Sunday used to be the day the thick paper arrived at the door early in the morning. While I still get a Sunday newspaper it’s not anything close to thick, and most people I know rely on the Internet and TV for their news and current events. Given this traditional role of the day named for our star it seems natural to report on how things look to me on this day of the week. Afghanistan, a country known for rugged terrain, corrupt businessmen and politicians, and surviving numerous occupations and wars, is once again front and center in this week’s news. From various sources it appears NATO, which is largely US marines and British armed forces, along with Afghan military are trying to overtake a critical Taliban stronghold. The key objectives appear to cut off the opium trade with hopes of financially crippling the insurgents, and placing a western friendly Afghan military and government in a strategic area near the Pakistan border, where you know who (hint: OBL) is presumed to be hiding. Closer to home the president attempted to smooth things over in Vegas. Although the mayor accepted the contrition with grace blackjack dealers remain skeptical. On the other hand small business leaders welcome any and all tax breaks but aren’t sure whether it will enable them to hire more workers. At the same time, Republicans are going to show up to the president’s healthcare summit. Whether the Afghan, job growth, or healthcare battles will be successful remains to be seen. Stay tuned for future Sunday reports. Meanwhile, with flying tomatoes, smooth landing skaters and nimble curlers the US Olympic team has taken a commanding lead in medals after the first week. Tiger Woods offered profuse apologies to his wife, family, friend, business partners, fans, and most significantly the kids who looked to him to be a role model. Claiming his behavior was selfish, foolish, and wrong, he said his Buddhist faith taught him that the true mark of an individual is not his achievements but what he is able to overcome. Danica Patrick will have many obstacles to overcome to win on the manly NASCAR circuit, but she took the first step this week at Daytona and today in California. The academy awards are coming soon and it looks like it may be a battle between the big box office sensation Avatar and the popular indie film The Hurt Locker. If you have not seen Jeff Bridges performance in Crazy Heart you should treat yourself. Well, that’s how things look from where I stand. Please let me know what you think. Differing perspectives and comments are not only welcome, but also encouraged.