Onward, Christian soldiers? Who will respond to call?

Onward, Christian soldiers?

Patriotism, religion and faith have been abused by politicians and religious leaders when speaking of the Iraq war.

It's far too easy to distort what the Bible says on peace, peacemakers and the Middle East, particularly when it's someone else's children.

Thus, to every congregation and minister, professing belief in the justness of this conflict and the alleged faith based military action, I propose one simple act.

In the next 30 days, find 10 able-bodied parishioners between the ages of 18 and (not currently enlisted) and have them sign up in the branch of their choice. You may not really even need to.

You have until 30 days from publication of this letter to send your own proclamation in this space confirming the names of your "Onward Christian and/or Jewish/ Hindu Soldiers."

Do more than flag-waving or put a slogan on your roadside sign. Make a true investment in the war. Decide which 10 new families will be personally willing to share in the sacrifice and reward your preacher blesses weekly.

I'm completely serious. God has asked this call to action be made. Put it in your bulletins, sermons and calling trees.

KIM MEYERS

Rapid City

People too tired to keep an

eye on leaders' corruption

Some say the President is above reproach and criticizing him is anti-American. Many of us think attacking Iraq was anti-American. Why should he get a free ride when an ordinary citizen would go to jail? Bush claims to be a Christian with a direct line to the Lord, perhaps if they allowed an interview with O'Reilly on Fox news? Otherwise "His" advice is just hearsay. Still think "God" controls who gets into power? Well, it IS called the Supreme Court! Proof "anything" is possible.

So "We The People" watch/play sports, gamble, go shopping, got to have the latest clothes, makeup, iPhone and decor. Unluckier people struggle to just pay bills, work and survive. There's little energy left to keep an eye on our "leaders" corruption. Any comparison with other despots are ignored because it's not happening here, or is it? The war - $15 billion a month to kill people and destroy things out of sight, out of mind. Iraqis who can have fled the country, leaving the poorest to die. And troops increasingly face child soldiers. South Dakota is 50th in child mortality, and that's NOT because of abortion. Insanity reigns, there are NO "holy" wars!

MARGARET MINKEL

Rapid City

No need for new bike laws when muffler law on the books

I read Paul Whalen's letter, 9-11-07, in shocked disbelief! Every motorcyclist in this state had better be terrified of Whalen's proposal.

Whalen's proposal is for legislators to restrict motorcycle travel in certain areas so he can go on riding his cycle without mufflers. Therefore, denying me and every other law-abiding motorcyclist the right to enjoy the beauty and serenity of the Black Hills and other areas. It's not just about 10 days during Sturgis.

Whalen wants to restrict my rights, so he can make a bunch of noise with his un-muffled motorcycle. It will be a cold day in hell before I ever supported anything so absurd.

Whalen must be ignorant of two facts:

1. There are places across the U.S. where motorcycles are restricted.

2. This is exactly what many people want: MOTORCYCLES, ALL motorcycles, banned from their neighborhoods. Mostly, because of loud obnoxious un-muffled motorcycles.

I've spent 40 years of my life working for motorcycle rights. I will not stand by and see those rights destroyed because Whalen wants to ride without a muffler and make a bunch of unnecessary noise.

We have a state muffler law! It needs to be enforced.

Whalen, get a muffler!

BILL NAPOLI

Rapid City