Dear Mr. Luciano,

First off, I don't think Luigi Luciano is your real name. I think it's a pseudonym for Bill O'Reilly or maybe George Bush himself. Your writing style, grammar and syntax remind me of Mr. Bush's simplistic use of the English language. Intelligent people all over the world cringe when Bush opens his mouth. Why are you afraid to use your real name in your editorials?
Then I would like to address some of the idiocacies in your editorial, if you dare read this far. Many people oppose Mr. Alito's appointment to the Supreme Court because they fear he will be instrumental in overturning Roe v. Wade. So I guess Bush's cronies feel it's ok to take away a women's basic right to make decisions about her life. What next? Take away our right to vote. Reinstate slavery?
The people who are really out of touch with Americans are Bush and his cronies. They're old, white, priveleged men who still haven't gotten over the fact that America lost the war in Vietnam. So all the so-called "red" states voted for him. I guess when you're from Alabama, have a 5th grade education, your sister is also your mother and you married your cousin, Bush looks pretty smart to you. And why do people think he's a "nice" guy. Politics is a dirty business on both sides and nobody gets to be president by being "nice". Why do people like you look at politics like it's a John Wayne movie with the Republicans vs. Democrats. Real politics is not that simplistic; it's not that black and white, there's a lot of grey.
Mr. Bush lied to the American people. He justified going to war in Iraq by telling us there were weapons of mass destruction. That Saddam Hussein was this big threat. Well, there were no weapons of mass destruction and thousands of our service men/iraqi people have died and for what? To spread democracy? If you believe that I have a bridge in Brooklyn on the market for you. We almost impeached the last president for lying to the American people. And what did he lie about - sex. Show me a man who hasn't lied about sex. It didn't result in the deaths of thousands of people and the destruction of a country. And all you have to do is watch the trial of Mr. Hussein to see what a threat he was - the guy's a baffoon. He doesn't seem as dangerous as he seems crazy.
I am not suggesting inaction. If we know that Bin Laden was behind 9/11, why haven't we got this guy yet. There is absolutely no excuse. We can put a man on the moon; NASA sends spacecraft to other planets and it is sending back information about them; an IPOD is the size of a credit card and it plays 10,000 songs; and I still can't figure how the hell cell phones work and we can't get this guy. It's not like he's running a high tech operation. He's a man n a cave who sends out amateur videotapes for God's sakes. This country who spends billions of dollars on defense can't find this guy after 5 years? Please, it makes no sense.
Also, we spend billions on defense and we were attacked by a couple of yahoos who hijacked airplanes. They don't even have a country. They're amatuers. Yeah, they reaked a lot of havoc but any idiot with a bomb can kill a lot of people. And Mr. Bush, please don't insult my intelligence by telling the American people that you are spreading democracy. We invade other countries to impose our system on them. Isn't that why the pilgrims left England for this country? To not have the laws of the monarchy imposed on them? Bush should turn his passion for democratic ideals to his own country where there is a lot of poverty, crime, inequality and racism to name a few. So Saddam= Husseim was a bad man because he gassed his people? Yes, I agree. But all you have to do is pick up the newspaper or see the news in this country to see the violence/inhumanity that goes on everyday. The Middle Eastern countries see this on their news and think this country is barbaric as well.
So we haven't been attacked since 9/11 because of Bush? Please, any president would have put similar measures in place and remember we were attacked as soon as Bush was in office. Bush will not tolerate another attack? Well, nobody should. That's his job or anyone else's as president. Other countries see Bush as the bumbling fool that he is.
If Bush is so insistent on spreading democratic ideals then he has to start with his own actions. The right to tap phones and torture prisoners are notwhat the founding fathers had in mind when they wrote the Constitution.
There are a lot of serious and complex problems in our world today that need to be handled by smart, competent, compassionate people not rich old men who live privileged lives and wage war for their own special interests. Mr.
Bush should be impeached - for lying to the American people, for costing the lives of thousands of young men and women to justify his lie and for being the real coward who won't take responsibility for his missteps and failures.

..........................................................................................................................................................................

I've kept my mouth shut for a long time but your newspaper has gone too far. not only are the "facts" you so frivolously print in your pages supercilious, they're downright wrong. it might be helpful for a NEWSpaper to have its facts straight. another thing. Luigi Luciano. where did you pick him up? a sports bar? he's a completely uneducated one-sided schmuck. if you're going to print editorials, they should explain both sides of an issue clearly and effectively. his articles are so malicious and one-sided that you might as well be printing rush limbaugh or bill o'reilly. oh wait. you DO print bill o'reilly. how about instead of bombarding your readers with conservative propaganda, you do them a service and provide them with some real knowledge about what's going on in the world around them. if you're so sure of your position you won't need to approach a subject from a biased point of view: just the facts will allow them to deduce the same things. another thing, who edits his articles!? the man needs to learn English. i'm sorry but it definitely takes away from the validity of his pieces. if you want to present a respectable newspaper AND keep your readers happy with conservative opinions, at least CONSIDER what life might be like on the
other sid, for the gays and the latinos and the impoverished in this country. you're not the only ones who live here. they're AMERICAN CITIZENS too.

Bravissimo, Luigi!
Four months ago I moved to Flanders. Four month ago I received my first issue of Mt Olive Weekly. Who could predict then that I will actually read this newspaper before placing it into recycling box? No, not just that - in shock and bewilderment, I suddenly realized that I am WAITING for the next issue to come! Not for the ads. Not for the news. Not for the coupons. I wait for a gulp of fresh water, for a sole voice of honesty and common sense in a well orchestrated chorus singing eulogy to the rotten fetish of Political Correctness.

I want to thank you, Luigi Luciani, for restoring my belief in this country. If you ever decide to run for Presidency against this bunch of apes and jackals... err, I mean, elephants and donkeys - please, count me as your #1 voter.
Max, your thankful reader
Flanders

Dear Luigi:

I've read your article (Dec. 3rd) on "What has gone wrong with the USA". I agree with you 100%, especially our English. Like you said your Grandparents came here and had to learn our English as did my Great Grandparents in 1850. And look at our money "In god we trust". It all boils down to politician's "Greed". AS well as most all our goods are now made in Foreign Countries "Greed".

As for your Dec.lOth, again 100% on "Nothing like a good old fashioned prison. In my opinion, the USA should renovate ALCATRAZ. Our prisons are now "Country Clubs". Mr. citizen can't (wouldn't) join. I say put all murders to death (if found guilty) the same way they killed their victims, or put them on a remote I island and let them fend for themselves. This also goes for Rapeists and hard core criminals.

Why build more prisons whereby we taxpayers have to keep shelling out our hard earned money to keep them with good food, clean clothes, TV, etc.
Keep your good Articles coming.
Sincerely,
Edwin C Leach

Luigi, first of all, I commend you on tremendous articles and subject matter - you literally hit the nail on the head on many key subjects. I also think I've met you in person a few times through my husband. In any event, I could not wait a moment longer to respond to your article on today's Weekly re: the race issue.

Let's face it - it's the people of color - black, negro - whatever you want to call them - that are causing race issues in our country. They conveniently remind us - hey I'm colored - hey I'm black - remember - it's why I'm unemployed - it's why I'm this - it's why I'm that - they use it as a crutch - old faithful - if you will. Face facts - you are what you are - because of what you make of your life.

The Academy Award moment of a few years ago re: Halle Berry struck me so intently I actually called a radio show program the next day regarding this. It was all about race...not about acting ability....being the first.....being the 2nd black person - whatever - who cares! And who brought this to the attention of the public??? Not the announcer - not the academy - Ms. Berry herself - did she do a good acting job?? Who knows - she won because she was black - that's the point she made - and the only thing I'll remember. She could have said - how hard she worked - the pleasure of playing the part, etc. - No - Recall history - count the numbers - I agree that even if I were African American - I would have lost total respect and regard for this "so called" professional woman. Do Caucasian actors make a distinguishing remark when they are recognized for something? No - and let's face it - if people of color were not recognized for something - maybe they just didn't deserve it and maybe because a "white" person was recognized - we're speaking generally here - no specific profession - it's because they did the best job and deserved it honestly - not because they were "not a person of color". The other key point here is that these celebrities are such examples - they influence the public so intently - by Halle Berry's performance at the award ceremony - she puts that old race lightbulb on in people's minds - and they think again - hey - we are black aren't we - and "we" didn't win the award for so many years. Why are they such a community instead of the human race community i- consisting of all people black, white, oriental - whatever - we are all God's children.

I worked as a manager for many years for a large department. I had "people of color" and "not people of color". Whenever the girl of darker skin was brought to my office to discuss a particular incident or element of her job performance - she would say to me - "You're saying this because I'm black aren't you?" I was so frustrated by this person because her color had nothing to do with her rotten job performance - but because she was black - was I to ignore her performance - lest someone think I was being racist! Certainly not - I treated her like everyone else - but constantly needed assistance from Human Resources to back up the mere fact of doing my job. What an exhausting waste of time and effort. How fair is that and this person would intentionally provoke other employees with the attitude that they could do nothing because she was "of color" It was sickening - I mean it.

Ok - I'm done - I've vented - thanks for a great article and continue the good work.

Michelle
Hackettstown

I just read your article, "Marriage Ain't What it Use to Be!"First, I get so tired of people like you who decide what is normal and what is not. Oh, and by the way, I am not a lesbian.

I have friends who are both gay and lesbian. One friend was raped by 4 boys at the age of 8. Who would not be a lesbian after such a horrible experience. You then make the decision that she is not normal, because she would rather be in a loving relationship. Define normal to me.

I have a sister who was beat up by her husband. He should be castrated and hung up for the vultures to attack him. Define normal to me.

Honestly, when was the last time you spoke to God? How do you know that God is not testing those who accept all people and those who do not accept people like you? Define normal to me.

You are misinformed, there are churches that accept anyone, no matter what race, color, sex, orientation, etc., so get your facts straight. One church in Morristown opens the doors for anyone. Define normal to me.

And by the way, what about all of those single Moms out there who are trying to raise their families, because the "husbands" dumped them for a younger woman, mid-life crisis, etc. Define normal to me. If two people want to join in a loving relationship, no matter what the sex, who are you, or anyone else to deny a "true loving" relationship.

What would Jesus Do?

Sincerely,
An Upset Reader with people like you!
P.S. Not sure I trust a person who uses the word "ain't!"

Hi Luigi,

I just wanted to let you know that I read your article from
December 3rd, and I agree with you not 100%,but a 110. Boy I wish you
where running for president! You are so right about all that you
have said. I feel the same way you do. I'm sure that there are a lot of people out there that feel the same. There is nothing I can say that you haven't, what you wrote is all true. Well keep up the good work.

Nicky.
P.S. luigi for president!!!!!!!!

My way of thinking exactly. (RE: Luigi December 3) OK, so how do you plan to put pressure on the politicians or to boot certain ones out of office?

How do you go about trying to form a means of changing the system?
Is there a plan or do we just individually express our own personal views?
I know from being in a Union for 30 yrs that if you stand alone you wind up alone. Let's get something going and the backing will surely follow. I'm fed up with all the same things and desperately want to change it. HOW!

Respectfully,
Harry Budd Lake

In response to the letter by "An upset reader with people like you" I have to raise a few points that I'm sure many will want to express here. First of all ... stop ... take a moment to pick up a bible and do a bit of research. My bible tells me in Leviticus 18 verse 22. "You shall not lie with a male as one lies with a female it is an abomination." Boy - I simply cannot find any other way to translate that than in the eyes of God its wrong. Plain and simple.

By the way, The last time I spoke to God was precisely the moment I finished reading your comments. I prayed that God would not punish us for people who simply do not understand nor care to read his word to find the truth. I also prayed that he might open the eyes of people such as you to see the error of their ways.

I do not understand why being raped in any way would make anyone want to become a lesbian. That makes no sense. In turn they might try doing a bit of praying themselves. Seems to me to be the much wiser choice. As for defining normal, ok let’s just say for arguments sake. It is impossible to truly define normal. That doesn't mean we shouldn't strive to live a good moral life. Defined by the example of one who did no wrong. That would be the Jesus you speak of.

Now getting to these churches who accept anyone. I think that is great. Yet do you understand why they accept them? They accept them because they know they need Gods help. That is what the church is there for. This does not in any way mean they accept who they are, as acceptable in the eyes of God. If they do I must sadly inform them. Their church is doomed. My church will accept you as you are, but you can be sure we will all be praying for those to see Gods example and to repent of their sin and start living a life pleasing to God. God has given us the bible as a guide to live by. He doesn't allow us to change it to fit our lifestyle. No, he simply states these are the facts. Live by them, or as mentioned in last weeks article. "You think it's hot in Arizona? Wait!" I love that line!

Lastly ... I agree with you as to who are we to deny a loving relationship between two people. Oh my friends, The bible clearly states that we are not to judge, ahhh but here is the biggest point of all on this matter - no we must not judge, but I must assure you. He will! In signing off ... I answer your question as has been put on my heart to say. What would Jesus do? Jesus would say come and repent of your sin oh brother and sister. I will forgive you! Your sins will be washed away! I want to hear him say one day to me. Well done thou good and faithful servant. Enter into my rest for eternity! Amen to that!
Sincerely, David

I read your article "What has gone wrong in the U.S.?" in the Hackettstown Weekly and you said to send our comments in.

This article sends a bolt through many people. Many, as well as myself, think these things but hesitate to voice an opinion about them. Our only salvation is the Almighty who guards our beloved country from the evil ones.

You will be writing more and people will certainly take time out to read your article. Your thoughts on the politicians who do things for the vote, instead of the good of the people and the country, is their problem. I will say there are a few who are honest and think of others rather then themselves.

I will close by stating a few others but I'll leave it up to you. Many people whether they read your article or not shift in the same gear as you. Keep the thoughts you write alive.

Best wishes, take care and Happy Holidays.

Respectfully,
Filomena D.

Dear Luigi,

You have hit the nail on the head in your editorial of 10/29/03. I taught high school as a young man in 1968 through 1975, the last two years as a guidance counselor. I was a strict disciplinarian type teacher and counselor. Because of that, I didn't fare well as a counselor. In order to keep the kids coming back to you, you had to coddle them. I decided to change careers.

About two years ago I decided to do some substitute teaching at the high school. I know some of the teachers who taught my son, and because I'm self-employed, I thought it would be a good thing to fill in the slow periods of my business with.

After the first day, or should I say the first few hours, I realized my mistake. The mistake I made was to attempt to teach then as I did in 1968. The students clearly had made the teachers, etc., meet them on their turf. I call it insidious erosion. By that I mean the kids who were showing signs of the effects of the problems you alluded to, which by the way existed to some extent back in the sixties, had their offspring, who had their offspring who are now teachers.

As I walked through the halls I noticed two very prominent things. The students were doing pretty much what they pleased and the teachers, many of them dressed slovenly, were pretty much avoiding their duties--spare the rod and be headache free at the end of the day. Since when did the majority of male teachers exclude a coat and tie as normal attire, and the female teachers consider a sweatshirt or jeans appropriate dress. Insidious erosion?

Let me suggest that it will probably get worse before it gets better, but maybe that's what it will take for us to eventually effectuate change and regain the control which existed way back when. Until then, my hat's off to those poor souls who are in the trenches, and I suggest that any board member, parent, doubting thomas, etc. who has any doubts about the severity of the problems teachers face today regarding discipline and control take a turn a the helm. They wouldn't last two days.

Regards, RB

Dear Luigi,

No Name Give

I am reading the Weekly News and enjoying your article about Jersey Voters getting the last laugh. We agree with you 100% and Lucille wrote to the Record complaining that Loutenberg would probably resign so that our fine squeaky clean Governor could appoint a replacement. Probably appoint himself. What we want to tell you again is that you are wasting your time at this fine small circulation paper. You have the talent to be a top notch columnist on a major daily. I find it tough to express myself whereas you would have the words flowing like water. We enjoy your writings, your comments, your wit and your talent.
Please accept our wishes and desires for your best interests. We know we will get the form response from your mail box and understand and accept it.

Continue your fine work.

Michael and Lucille Brande
Wayne, N. J. 07470

I feel compelled to respond to your article, "New Jersey Voters can get the Final Laugh". I can't believe that you are so naive to think that the Republicans would not have done the exact same thing if they were in this situation, replacing a candidate. Don't you know there is no honor in this game of politics? Then I believe you also have a very short memory span. What was the greatest feat of magic performed in any election ever? Give up?........ the answer is how George W. Bush became president. In his case, the United States Supreme Court had the magic wand, and apparently they thought better than to get inolved in the New Jersey fiasco. Now, you want to talk about someone amazing, how about Sen. Strom Thurmond, Republican from South Carolina. Recently I saw a picture of him being wheeled into the Senate chambers by his personal aide, Mark Ivany, enroute to casting his first vote after the summer recess. Imagine someone who will be 100 on December 5 voting on important legislation! Does this frighten you, it sure does scare me. I am 30 years his junior, and many a day I forget what I had for breakfast. Next to Sen Thurmond, former Senator Lautenberg is a "teeny bopper". Luigi, I don't expect this to get printed because all I have been doing is picking on you, but as long as you read it, that's good enough for me.

Loretta De Rosso

No Name Given

I agree wholeheartedly with your article in The Weekly News, dated 9/19/02. - I love my country (since I was a little kid, I always thanked God I was born in America) and NO ONE should hurt a hair on any American's head. We should take care of it now.

Cathy Villani

Joe Palestini Jr.

I agree with most that you say, People have to realize that this day and age is much different then only a few years ago. If we want to keep being who we all are, we must wipe the planet of the riff raff. Even if it is not morally right.

Larry

Your article on the world situation is right on. I,m sure most of we americans, feel the same way. My own personal thoughts are also to drop an atom bomb and once and for all show the world, we won,t take any crap from anyone. And my thoughts also paralell yours as to cutting off all aid to foreign countries that do not go along with us. The billions we save could be used to intensify all defense systems, so no one can ever harm us again .Keep up the good work.

No Name Given

No Name Given

You've stepped over the line on this one. This article made me literally scream-- that's how irate and vehemently offended I was at your abuse of freedom of speech.
First of all, you say when will people learn about history repeating itself. Okay, here's fighting fire with fire: not veryone (believe it or not!)wants to go to war with Iraq. Remember the last time(fortunately, I don't,but I do take history) there was a lot of opposition to a war? Can anyone say Viet nam? Pointless deaths, and it got us NOWHERE. Doing this will ause exorbitant amounts of trouble within our own country, never mind in the world(I will get to that later).

Second of all, if everyone had the mindset of yours about nuclear retaliation we would've never made it out of the Cold War live. "If it were up to me, I would wipe out the entire region and get rid of these people once and for all." So you want to kill millions and millions of people in the Middle East because 50 people plotted an attack against us? I'm glad it's not up to you, though the Bush administration also has that state of thought, and it scares the hell out of me. Have you ever heard of one of Newton's laws? For every action there is an equal and opposite reaction. Except in this case, there is a umongous opposite reaction. You attack Iraq, you set the whole Middle East off. Wait! You want to blow them away! Yeah, that's solving problems. People are lacking the foresight and common sense to realize that if we do this, the consequences will hurt us. Did you think we could just bomb them without Iraq USING the nukes they're creating(by the way, if you want to et rid of all nuclear countries, we better start battling ourselves!)? Please!

"Stay in your own country, kill each other, but don't come here and kill our people." America starting a war against Iraq is n apostasy to that statement. Iraq has NOT come over here and killed our countrymen. Just because that country has a precarious dictator doesn't mean he flew those planes into the Twin Towers. You're making broad generalizations about the
Middle East. Yes, there are terrorists in that region. But that doesn't mean the entire area is in a conspiracy to get us! Al-Qaeda is not another name for Iraq!

I am not saying we can't put our foot down on UN violations. We definitely do need to put pressure on countries who have dangerous weapons. But war is NOT the way to go. You say where are our friends when we need them? Standing up for what THEY believe in. God forbid other nations had different beliefs than us! Just because they are our friends doesn't mean they are our yes-men. Other countries are not supposed to bow down to the US's every whim. Everyone says we're not a superpower, but we act like a spoiled brat, nd I'm tired of it. If a country does not support our brazen and stupid decision, more power to them! It's not because they're cowards(please don't call the French morons, they were the main reason we won the American
Revolution!), it's because they think it's too dangerous.

You also say if elected officials support this (highly discouraged) action, they'll lose votes. Well, that's a good thing! Don't votes=people? And if people don't want to go to war, then the Congressmen who vote against it are
DOING THEIR JOB.

You've gotten off very easy until now. How DARE you call me a coward for opposing a war to Iraq? I take it as a personal affront by you saying that. Are you going to get the INS on me for having some COMMON SENSE? Just because I don't want to get blown up tomorrow doesn't mean I am trying to run away from things. If anything, I'm standing up for what I believe in! If people were gullible enough to listen to editorials, 50% of this country would be heading out to Canada! I am proud to be an American, and if being able to exercise my right to have some say in current affairs makes me a coward or unpatriotic, well, then I am ashamed to have fellow citizens feel that way. I'd rather you didn't tell me what I should or should not do
because of my opinions. I could rant on for pages and pages about how angry I am about your last comment, but I won't. Thank you for your time.

Jessica

THE BIBLE CONTAINS *6* ADMONISHMENTS TO HOMOSEXUALS AND *362* TO HETEROSEXUALS. First of all, let me just say I am a 23 year old lesbian with a wonderful partner of 3 years. We probably have a better relationship then most heterosexuals out there. But thats not the point..The reason we have so much Pride, and parades, and tv shows and magazines is because of people like YOU. If we were treated like everyone else where we wouldn't have to worry about getting bashed physically and verbably, and could show our affections towards one another just as hetersexuals can, we wouldnt need all that. I love the way a lot of "straight" people think we CHOSE this lifestyle..Who would want to choose to be an outcast, possibly have your family disown you, and know that you can never truely be yourself? NOT ME, but what doesn't kill us makes us stronger, and maybe god made me gay because he realized how weak YOU are. YES I go to parades, and gay clubs, because I don't have fear of being who I am in those places. I also happen to love the show Queer as Folk, but I don't limit myself to "gay TV". And I do hope there are more Gay tv shows, because we no longer live in the dark ages. Homosexuals have been around since day one, and we are here to stay. And just like any other minority in this world we deserve equal rights. I WOULD like to see your daughter see 2 woman or men kissing, this way maybe she won't grow up as narrow minded as you. If you see a man and a woman walking down the street, holding hands and maybe kissing, you think to yourself, aww what a happy couple. But if 2 woman are doing it, they are automatically "dragging it into the public." Meanwhile you see a gay TV show that takes place in a nite club where a man will sleep with anyone..Well thats just what it is, TV, its not real, its a TV show, (remember Melrose Place?) just as Star Trek isn't real. And from what I can tell, you're probably no spring chicken. When was the last time you went to a "straight" club? Its just as much of a "meat market" as what you probably see on TV. I would love to trade places with you for 1 day, just so you can feel what its like reading the article you wrote. Another thing, you're tired of catering to ANY group? Don't flatter yourself, no one wants you.

No Name Given

I totally agree with your comments. If God wanted us to have relationships with the same sex it would have been Adam and Adam not Adam and eve. It is just not right. However like you said if they want to have sex or kiss with the same sex then let them do it in the privacy of there home. We don't need our kids seeing that. Also when they adopt or have themselves fertilized it is totally unfair to the child. The child should have a mom and dad not a mom and mom..It is confusing to them. But that is how it is nowadays and we just have to get used to it.. Keep writing those terrific articles.

No Name Given

good for you luigi, we're all for you. there should be more columnist like you to inform the readers about the garbage that out there. lots of luck with you're furture columns.

BERNARD D'ALEO

I don't have enough time in the world, especially today, to rant about how offended I am at your newest article. So I will make a quick point. You say you can't stand lesbians kissing in public. How about heterosexuals having sex in St. Patrick's? Certainly that can't be are heterosexual, that would be quite appalling.

One more thing: I'm sure the homosexual community didn't hold a conference to decide what the slang word for their lifestyle would be. So please don't accuse THEM of "stealing a perfectly good word", as it were, as if gays were some type of inferior race. And if gay means happy, than I'd much rather see happy homosexual couples than unhappy heterosexuals who waste their lives with people they don't love.

Jessica

Thank you for your commentary on TV Land. I strongly agree with your views, (no pun intended) and enjoy some of those same programs. Oddly enough, I have recently been selected to fill out the Nielson Ratings TV Diary. Yesterday was my first entry date. I had difficulty leaving just one channel on for more than 10-minutes. I have quite a selection from Cablevision, yet between 9 and 10 p.m. I surfed, then shut the darned thing off.

At 11:45 p.m. I caught the end of "Just Shoot Me" and then began to watch "King of the Hill." I find both very funny and am appreciative of the hour they are aired. I don't find the sexual or other adult references to be appropriate for children. Your column was enjoyable. I look forward to reading it again sometime.

Nancy A. Rusignuolo

Hey! Luigi! I agree about those TV Land shows, they were all good, Jeannie, Beverly Hillbillies, Gilligan, Beaver, Dennis the Menace, Lucy, etc. But you left out the biggest one - THE HONEYMOONERS, the greatest sitcom of all time. They're on TV Land 9:30 Sunday mornings.
All the sitcoms, even the crap that's on today, come from The Honeymooners or Lucy, in some way, shape, or form.
A lot of the old shows are being shown now, shows you what people think of the newer stuff. Garbage! The SciFi Channel has the old Outer Limits on weekdays, 1 PM. I get the schedule off the website and timer tape the good ones.

Jack M

Your of 7/25/02 hit the spot; in fact it made my year. Graduating High School in 1949, I obtained a job in a store catering to women for 10 weeks before continuing my education. Though I was working only for the summer, I was forced to join the union despite my protests. When I left, the shop Steward gave me two cents that was owed me for some reason; unbelievable but true. >From that day forward I have been very wary of unions. Don't always agree with you but keep it up anyway.

No Name Given

Okay, when will you have a article about big business and the stock market? How about how everybody's investments have dwindled. People have lost their pensions, their 401ks and there life savings. How about all the rich CEO thief's who took peoples money and ran and then claim bankruptcy? These CEOs took millions! All you talk about is people fighting for a couple of crumbs, in your article stat of the union! Unions set the pay standard for non union people! Ever hear of prevailing wage?

Jim Kenny

People in this world are insane, why change something we have been saying for over a 100 years! If you don't believe in god, fine. If you do believe in god, fine. Does it matter that much to people to change our great countries pledge, something that we have all said proudly one time or another. Like come on, grow up!

And for your info, Francis Bellamy wrote the pledge but didn't include the word 'God' in his pledge, Congress voted it into the pledge in 1954, and he wasn't exiled from the church. So if anyone has any more weak arguments like the person below, research a bit more please.

No Name Given

No Name Given

I don't find it a question of whether people are afraid there is a God or not. That has nothing to do with my feelings. I may not go to church, but you can't attack me for my upbringing. I do think we have an ultimate creator, and maybe I see the situation differently from you, but taking God out of schools and places where religion should not be is not turning this world into a cruel place. Man has been fighting for over two thousand years. And don't people kill for God, or their representation of a Creator? I may be wrong, but aren't our Twin Towers gone because of religious zealots? Yes, they obviously had some mental disorders and had other reasons, but they did it in the name of Allah! And right now in Massachusetts, a trial is going on because a man starved his son to death because a rooster said God would save the baby with a miracle. And now someone is telling me that a LACK of God is causing world destruction? You can blame it on more carnage in TV, I won't get angry, you can blame it on crappy parents, there certainly seem to be more of them, but they aren't because "we're losing God." There are people in this country who go to church every Sunday, go to confessional, and then come home and beat everyone in their households to a pulp. They found God! But that doesn't help their wifes and children who have black eyes and bruised arms. Religion is NOT the law. Religion is NOT to be forced upon people who don't want it, because our country is based on liberty. And I think God wants all of His people to be happy while spending time on Earth, even if they are pagans, atheists, take your pick. Like you said, they may just get it when their time comes. But for now, let them be "in the wrong." Because it's right to do that. Shouldn't we accept all people equally? And accepting people equally means to take religion out of things where it is juxtaposed. Yes, we say "so help me God" and sware on the Bible when we go to court. But just because it's done doesn't mean it's right. People use illicit drugs. Does that mean they are right, just because they're done? Obviously not. Society needs morals, yes. But one can have morals without using God, etc. to explain them. If Buddhists said, "Hey, everyone needs to meditate in public schools, because it's what we believe in," I'm sure there would be a lot more arguments against them rather than people against Christians. But what makes them any different that people wanting prayer in schools? Think about it.

Jessica

Jess

Greatly enjoyed your column on One Nation Under God. You are right on. I agree 100%Look forward to all your articles .Keep up the good work.

Audrey Hampson

OK, I am now convinced that you and I must have been siblings and were separated at birth! I can't tell you how refreshing it is to hear that I am not the only one who is tired of "Liberal America". When I heard about this incident with the Pledge of Allegiance, I just threw my hands up and was ready to surrender to a society that doesn't have a clue as to how important the values that we grew up on are to all of us.

I can't help but think that this guy's daughter became an innocent victim of her father's insecurity. As you said, "In God We Trust" is clearly written on the currency of this country. Soooo....., I think this gentleman, (since he thinks anything containing "God" is unconstitutional) should distribute all of his money to charity and all of us that welcome the existence of God in our lives. Why doen't his money offend him? This guy should have spent all the time he put into this lawsuit with his daughter instead of wasting it on something that first, has been a part of our lives for a long time, and second, isn't hurting anyone. I'm going to put him right up there with those who feel you should be allowed to burn the American flag. (I'm going to assume you agree with me on that also and think anyone doing so should be shot! )

Keep writing those columns, they give me hope that I'm not alone.

Tom L.

No Name Given

Your column, 'Nothing Like a Good Old Fashion Prison', in The Weekly News, was right on target. The fact that so many criminals are treated to many comforts of homer has always been a sore sot with me. They commit a crime and we tax payers are penalized. We have to pay for them living rent free, free means, free medical expenses, TV, libraries, gyms to exercise and a pillow to rest their heads on in a warm or air conditioned place when they sleep. Some study law, write books, becomes celebrities and become wealthy (land of opportunity - even for criminals).

Last week on the news on TV there were poor people eating dirt because they didn't have food. Their children's 'skeletons' were covered with sore crusted skin and flies crawling all over them. These people are suffering and they are innocent while criminals get the comforts of home.

Criminals should get a taste of that life. Let them trade places with these poor people. Those starving people would think they were in heaven. They sleep on the ground not in a clean bed. You wrote the column, but the words were like I had written them.
You don't have to be homeless to lack the basic privileges. Many seniors can�t afford medical attention because of sky rocketing costs. Women go without pre-natal care; schools are in need of books to educate our children.

Thank you for all your down-to-earth opinions. People in higher places would benefit from your thinking. A person doesn't have to be a college professor with dozens of degrees to understand what is just common sense.

Politicians should take their hands out of their pockets and sew them closed.
Thank you for taking the time to read this. I look forward to reading your comments

Rose

You are right on the money.

No Name Given

I usually do not respond to crackpots with columns in local shoppers, I feel compelled to reply to your misunderstandings about the role of religion or a supreme being in our government. First, and foremost, the Declaration of Independence does not form the basis of our laws. The document that is at the basis of our government and its laws is the Constitution of the United States. The number of mentions of G-d or a supreme being is exactly zero. Given the role of religion then, as now, this doesn't seem like an accidental oversight, but an intention effort at separating religion from government. Instead of rolling over in their graves because of the Pledge ruling, I think that the amount of religion that has crept into our government would probably cause them significant consternation.

Speaking of the Constitution, let's examine it further. First of all, while our former presidents often mention G-d and are even sworn in a statement ending in "...so help me G-d." However, those closing words are not mandated by our Constitution. In addition, there is no requirement that a bible be used for the Presidential oath, the oath taken by judges, or the oath taken by witnesses at a trial.

Most importantly, you suggest that the majority should rule in this country. To a degree that is true, but the most important part of the Constitution is, perhaps, the first ten ammendments, called the Bill of Rights. The exact reason for the creation of these ammendments was to protect the minority from the will of the majority. Thus, the majority does not, and should not, rule when they impinge upon the rights of the minority.

While I strongly believe that God should not appear in the Pledge of Allegiance (isn't it OK to pledge my allegiance to the USA without invoking G-d?) or on our coinage, I don't believe that this fight is worth fighting--the impingement is minimal since the schools are not allowed to mandate that a student participate. However, some fights are worth fighting--for example, prayer in public schools and posting the Ten Commandments in courtrooms. Both of these undoubtedly are more serious infringements than the Pledge.

You may suspect from this letter that I'm an atheist or, perhaps, an agnostic. But I am not. I am a religious person who strongly believes that the government should stay out of my personal life and that the more religion creeps into government, the more likely government is to creep into my religious life.

Regards,

Morris Lewis

No Name Given

I thank you for so graciously replying to my e-mail; I don't know if I would have been able to do the same! If I seemed to be attacking you personally, I apologize...I tend to get overly passionate over my beliefs. I know we are at opposite ends of the spectrum ideal-wise, and while your column makes me flare up frequently, it also gives me something to think about! As much as I'd like for people to agree with me, it's also interesting to see the other side, however much I don't like it. Again, thank you for the response.

Jessica

Read your column and couldn't agree more. What has happened, I emigrated in 1962 from England, had my green card with me at all times, reported every year. One particular time when going to Canada around 7:30 pm for a company dinner - crossing the border they asked for my alien card which I didn't have, which was very unusual me, they told me I could go through the border but wouldn't be able to return to the U.S. They told me they would have checked with U.S. Immigration but with it being late at night no one would be there.

I could go on forever on this subject as it annoys me very much and nothing is being done about it. Do you know who I could contact in the government to send my message? Keep up the good work.

June from West Paterson

No Name Given

Liz Parry

Thank you , thank you, thank you! Your Listen to Luigi column was great! I am praying that more people will stand up for our Christen values! That is way I love your paper! The US has allowed everybody and his brother to demean our forefathers values, what they stood for, and lost all they had for. So I was overjoyed to see your column this week. Keep up the good work. God WILL prosper those that stand up for his statutes GOD BLESS YOU ! GOD BLESS AMERICA!

Victor and Edith Dombal

Dear Luigi,

I agree that a lot of today�s music is non-melodic, badly written, unintelligible noise, so I don�t listen to it. It may cause damage to our ears but I really don�t think that it is responsible for precipitating violence. Kids who react to this music violently obviously have other problems that may be a result of heredity, genetics, mental disorder, abuse or neglect. Most kids who listen to this stuff are listening to it because they know it is shocking and appalling to the older generation. This is the circle of life�every generation has to be more outrageous than the last. I don�t think there is more violence in America today than there was when the early settlers came to America and slaughtered thousands of Native Americans into near extinction. And what music where they listening to?

Violence has existed throughout history ... the early Christians were fed to the lions, Spanish Inquisition, slavery and lynchings in America, the Holocaust, cowboys and indians, lizzie borden, jack the ripper - none of which was motivated by controversial music. I agree that Eminem is vile and disgusting but we can�t censor what people say. In this country everyone is protected by free speech. What if your editorial pieces were edited or deleted from the paper because someone found what you had to say objectionable? We can exercise our right to refuse to buy books or magazines or music that we find offensive. We can�t deny people the right to express themselves or the rights of other people to read or listen to whatever they want.

I completely agree that parents need to make parenting and their children their number one priority. Kids don�t care if their family has the fanciest house or car. What they need is parental involvement, love, support and supervision. I know that there are situations when it is inevitable for both parents to work. But if both parents are working for selfish fulfilment then it will take its toll on the kids and on our society. Parents should be completely involved in what their children are watching on TV, what they are reading, what music they listen to and especially aware of what they are doing on the Internet. It is a parents job to set limits and to see that all outside media influences meet the guidelines which are determined by their family values.

By the way, Eminem�s CD is available in two versions: an edited version which is toned down, and an explicit version. Personally, I think they both stink!

Dear Luigi,

It is amazing that the argument continues: God should be put back into the equation in order for us to regain our kinder, gentler nation. You know, you may have a point. Things have gotten out of hand lately. It seems like just yesterday that our fellow Black Americans were oppressed, raped, butchered and lynched while children watched and smiled knowing that their parents knew what as best. After all, many started their days with a good down home prayer to their God. And just a few years before, virtually a whole race of people were wiped out by crusading Europeans claiming that God had sent them to change the world for the good of all. Oh yea, that was when God was certainly part of the equation.

When speaking of those who do not practice the same religion as you, they are cast off as only he Atheists. That's interesting; I'm sure along my journey through life I've met many Hindus, buddhists and others who do not share your zealous feelings. Perhaps you have not yet had the privilege of meeting any of these fine upstanding Americans.

This country was not founded on the principles of your God. It was founded on the principles of natural rights. Everyone is born with them and should never have to submit to anyone's particular beliefs. Along with many, many other people, my children are given their faith at home and in other places that find others sharing the same faith. In public school they learn, laugh and play with other Americans, sharing the same beliefs that include the right of all to practice their faiths in ways that would never feel threatening or coercive to others.

If this is a serious problem for you, you may want to consider moving somewhere that has all believing just like you do. Then you may pray all day and espouse your belief anywhere you choose. But beware, history has taught us over and over that to oppress others with your faith is to

eventually bring your God back into the picture. These were and remain the times when all hell breaks loose. Give it a rest, enjoy you faith and enjoy Americans for who they are: free to decide for themselves.

Dear Luigi,

This was sent to me by my sister and it addresses your comments in the article "What has gone wrong with the USA." I think he says it all and in reading the comments from several readers in this week's issue, maybe they should read this. The two readers who voiced their opinion seemed to miss the test of your article and maybe should try reading it again, especially the one that says in her comments that we should be proud that people speak more than one language and we learn from more than one culture. I think she is contradicting herself in that statement. Yes, it is wonderful for one to know more than one language, but if you are living in a country, it would be prudent to learn the language of that country and we shouldn't have to adapt to them.

Anyway, I thought you would appreciate this reading. This editorial was published in a local newspaper.

No Name Given

Dear Luigi,

My name is Sharan Woods. I live in Fairfield, and I recently had the opportunity to read your article which related to the current status of let's say EVERYTHING! I don't normally get too much time to myself, as I'm raising a four-year-old and taking care of my live-in Mom on top of running my husband's business. I happend upon your article and became completely riveted - I could hardly believe there was someone out there bold enough to say what had to be said without all the frills. It was really refreshing to hear someone tell it like it is. For example, I've always wondered why it is that we are feeding people in other countries, yet children in our own country are starving! Uhhhh, H E L L O!! And why is it exactly that so many folks thought there should be a separation of church and state - did everyone suddenly come down with amnesia? Last I read, this country was founded by a small group of people - weren't they called the Pilgrims or something? - who wanted to be free to practice religion as they chose. On top of that, you get some lame brain who decides that children can't pray in school, yet they stand, place their hands on their hearts and recite the Pledge of Allegance every single day (..."one nation, under God..."). Since I was in my teenage years, I'd always wanted to know - WHO MADE THE RULES, ANYWAY? I never have gotten an answer to that question. It seems to me that not only does the left hand not know what the right hand is doing, the left had DOESN'T EVEN KNOW THERE IS A RIGHT HAND!!!!!
Thank you so much for your article - from a "wanna-be" journalist who never had the opportunity - I'd write exactly like you if it was me!
Keep up the good work.

I felt really good after reading your commentary. I could not get to sleep last night thinking about the subjects you covered. You stated that these are just a few of the problems with this country and I could not agree with you more. I could go off on a rant about all the things that bother me concerning groups of people that constantly look for handouts and free food, health coverage and reparations. These same people walk around with enough jewelry to finance the down payment on a house. They are usually so fat that they look and sound like fools. A spanish group complained about a sign on a route truck in english and spanish explaining that the driver carried no cash due to a truck safe. They were offended that the sign did not include other foreign languages. What a joke! Mr. Luciano, thank you for a very interesting article.

No Name Given

Dear Luigi,

I've read your last few weeks articles. You certainly seem opinionated! Some things, like the prisoner treatment in Cuba, I'm not totally in agreement with you. Although I agree they are scum, our country is founded on equal treatment for all. Which brings up illegal aliens. Send them back! Treat them the way all who break the law are treated.

be if you wanted Spanish you punched a button & for English you just stayed on the line. What was wrong with that? I'm not against anyone trying to hold on to their heritage. But 'when in Rome, do as the Romans'! These people came to the U.S. for a reason-better living conditions & freedom. Then embrace our country as those that came here 100 years ago did.

I also agree with your concern of children raised by gays. I'm sure there are a lot that would make wonderful parents but as you said the future problems it may cause are unpredictable. I have gay friends and they are nice people but I don't think gays should flaunt their sexuality( the friends I have don't). It's not natural. If it were, it wouldn't take two sexes to created an offspring.

Well, there it is. I'm somewhat opinionated too. Maybe you can write an article on all those bothersome telemarketing calls. Even when you've told them three times you're not interested!

No Name Given