now isn't that cute

give me a break

I'm reminded of the Newtonian Law of Physics that says, "For every action there is an equal and opposite reaction." Sounds like the case with the No Child Left Behind Without a Computer genius. I appreciate the warning shot fired across his bow by Tim Tymchyshyn and reminding folks of the unintended consequences of good and noble efforts. This kind of scenario could wind up looking like a Disney made-for-television kind of movie where it works out in the end or an Irwin Allen "DoomsDay" scenario where we all go to hell in a hand basket (and, of course, we get blown to smitherines in the hand basket - they make really great targets!). Realistically, the genius who thunk up this idea has a strategic plan to include funding for local communities to offer rehab to the child predators (if he is a bleeding heart liberal) or a hit squad (if he is a social conservative). Hyperbole being what it is, I'm confident that the extravagant raves over his generosity will silence the demons of resistance.

While Tim is more critical of WalMart than those of us who appreciate the slow, lingering death of family-owned businesses, I, too, have to raise an objection to WalMart's apparent dominance of the free-enterprise system. They may be the largest retailer in the world and ultimately lead us to peace and prosperity as the only retailer by 2025, putting an end to war, hunger, poverty, disease, and global warming, but I'm still going to pray for Target, Ikea, eBay or some other clever business person to come up with a plan to do better. In nearly every community I've lived WalMart has undercut, undermined, out sold, out-witted the best business people in town by offering the lowest prices. In the good ole days when they only bought and sold American, local businesses had a chance to compete. Since they sold their soul to the devil, they are reaping the rewards of the flesh and dining on the ashes of their former competitors. How American!