From: Dick WIGHT ('52)

Sandstorm Extra that might be political

Re: Political ? Extra

Re: Political or not???

I see a lot of strong emotion over the "free lunch" issue,
particularly in several indictments of this issue being
political. Well, I suppose it has political aspects, in that 
one major political party is generally considered more 
supportive of social assistance programs than the other, 
though both participate in funding these programs at federal
and state levels.

I prefer to believe these are more sociological and societal
subjects. At age 80, I've seen our society change a great deal
with regard to both private and public funding of various
programs to provide aid to low income or indigent people.

And I have "paid my dues" in many ways... through taxation,
through voluntary donations, and through volunteer and public
service. For instance, I ran United Way fundraising programs in
Clallam County, served on YMCA board, helped my wife raise money
for Hospice and so on...

I will offer no opinions at this time, but I do believe a healthy
debate about aspects of this issue are important, and perhaps
necessary. If this is an "off limits" issue on SANDSTORM, so be
it... but if anyone wants to discuss the issue with me, I'll be
glad to participate.

Incidentally, I think Brad UPTON's ('74) reaction was a little
"over the top". I guess - in general - folks are perhaps
sometimes likely to "push someone's button" on most ANY
discussion topic political or not. I for one am somewhat bored
with some of the Sandstorm entries and usually don't read them
all.

-Dick WIGHT ('52)
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