I am a veteran, a combat veteran from operation Praying Mantis and Desert Shield / Storm. I am not Timothy Mc Veigh whom was an extremist who hated the United States. I love my country and believe in the Constitution. Though I am not overly happy with much of the current political scenario I still support the government.

That said I want to know why on April 7th the Department of Homeland Security labeled myself and fellow veterans as potential domestic terrorists?

Is it because veterans tend to be more vocal about issues? Which we have every right to be. As far as I am concerned veterans have earned this right, even if its in opposition to the current administration.

I will never carry out an attack against my country, but I will vocalize my displeasure on any subject I choose. The first amendment gives me the right and I and my fellow vets put our tails on the line for those who didn't. I will stand up for anyones right to speak freely, even if I disagree with them. It is their right to speak freely, and it is mine as well.

I feel insulted and betrayed.

Linux and the Drummer

when I advocate Linux to a new user I first make sure they know that this is NOT WINDOWS. Though I can make it look similar and react as Windows to some degree we still find ourselves with some incompatibilities.

So where do I get new users involved? Those who are just frustrated and tired of Windows problems. Computer care should involve updating and occasionally basic system maintenance. Conflicker has become a problem for a lot of Windows users and despite an individuals pronounced expertise on the subject no Linux system was reported as infected with conflicker, though it may have been passed on by some Linux based servers unknowingly. I have ClamAV on all my Linux systems for that reason, to keep them from passing on Windows based viruses. And it works.

So when a friend who is a drummer for a band called "The Long Gone Daddys" asked me to fix his computer I asked what do you use it for? Answer to check the MySpace and web site for the band mostly. He also needed better tools for the web site management as well. He knew I used Linux so I asked if he wanted to give it a try. He answered that he wanted to have a working computer that stayed working.

DING DING DING Linux is gonna be installed.

What advantages does he get from Linux?

Better Web Design utilities and programs.
Open Source music composition software. He does write music after all.
A more reliable and secure computer.
Longer usability on his laptop because newer versions of Windows will most likely be unusable on it.

Of course the proof is in whether he keeps Linux or not but I'm willing to bet he will.