In light of Obama’s European tour, Christopher Hitchens has written an article in Slate titled “Don’t Be So Sensitive, Mr. President” – Truth comes before reconciliation.

Is an Israeli strike on Iran imminent?

31st March - Jeffrey Goldberg writes:

Do you remember how often President Obama stated that a "nuclear Iran was unacceptable" during his election campaign speeches?

This is Bruch's delightful Romance in F, played by the lovely Janine Jansen. To me, it evokes a happy world so benevolent in nature that love for existence completely swells my heart today.

This is a stunning version of O Come O Come Emmanuel. I love the 12th Century chant-like melody.

I found this trailer to the gorgeously artistic film The Red Violin.
The film spans the life of one violin across oceans and centuries, all to the accompaniment of some very passionate music.

I love Christopher Hitchens, don't get me wrong, but his comment really irritated me and I wondered how much of Rand he has truly read.

If Shakespeare’s words, “This above all: to Thine own self be true, and it must follow, as the night the day, Thou canst not then be false to any man,” have any poignant significance to your life, then the film Chariots of Fire will resonate deeply within your heart.

Regarding Shay's Rebellion in Massachusetts:

"God forbid we should ever be twenty years without such a rebellion.

I'm not sure what's in the air these days but I'm feeling quite chipper!
So I want to celebrate on Solo with some light, comedic fun. If it makes you laugh... please post it on this thread.

The USS New York (LPD 21), made from World Trade Center scrap.

Here is a bold poem unequalled in its glorification of earthy romanticism and penned by the hand of the great American, Walt Whitman (1819-1892).

A Woman Waits for Me

15 year old Lizzie Palmer made this simple yet effective project. As of today it has achieved 24, 522,435 hits! According to the comments that she has now disabled, some of these people never came home. link

Here's another sweet little Nocturne by Chopin - one of my many favourites.

When you have moment, sit back and enjoy.

I've decided to kiss my alter-ego Claudia goodbye and just be known on Solo by my rightful name. Olivia it is and shall be from now on.

This is a lovely interview with Ayaan (despite its terrible title).

Islam, Ayaan and her conscience.

I was pleased to find these both on You Tube. Enjoy.

Je Crois Entendre Encore

Hey all,

If you want to post an image the code is img src="html web address" ... then enclose the whole code in alligator jaws ie.. <>

We've had the Hottest Women thread, now it's time for the Hottest Men out there to be drooled over. So, all you red-blooded women and homos, get posting. If he's HOT... let's see him!

Here is his article from Slate:

As I understand it, objectively, the universe is neutral but supports our efforts toward living, simply because the universe is our natural home - in this sense, it is benevolently disposed toward us.

One of the factors of Ayn Rand’s novel writing that tends to be overlooked is her brilliant use of humour. Her pen scribed such a sharp wit at times it brings to mind the works of Jane Austen.

I’d like to say I coined the phrase "Objectobabe," but I think it originally came from Boaz the Boor if I remember correctly.

I was feeling splendidly optimistic and social tonight so decided to head into town with my friend for some drinks and convivial conversation.

Calling on all people with artistic knowledge! Apart from Auguste Rodin, which historical artists would fall into the Romantic Realism category? I'm especially interested in painters. I would appreciate any suggestions for a project I'm currently working on - especially artists AFTER the 1700's.

Please America, get rid of this evil witch!

HILRYA RODHAMOVICH CLINTONOV'S ECONOMIC PLAN - written by Mark Alexander, the Patriot Post.

(I received this letter from a friend. I think it sums up pretty well the sickening realities facing an old war Vet in today as well as yesterday's political climate).

"I'm Tired"

Two weeks ago, as I was starting my sixth month of duty in Iraq, I was forced to return to the USA for surgery for an injury I sustained prior to my deployment. With luck, I'll return to Iraq to finish my tour.

We enjoyed this film so much. We watched it as a family, laughing and giggling our heads off. What fun! It was so refreshing to watch an ordinary family, with all its quirks and foibles, enjoy an adventure together against all odds.

From the Washington Post

Viva, Alberto!

Al Gore's documentary, "An Inconvenient Truth," got a big nod over the weekend -- and we're not talking about the Oscars.

I recently found this letter and thought it worth posting on behalf of the 1-32 Infantry...