>>>I take it all this is the "compassionate conservatism" we've been hearing about? <<<<<<

LOL Probably not....but I haven't said anything about how I would deal with the difficulties in Mississippi, or the inner-city....

I think Bartholomew's idea about infra-structure improvements is wonderful. Personally I lean more toward TVA style projects than the old WPA but both can be useful. The TVA brought economic advancement to the entire region, and it spurred many a social movement (desegregation for instance...the growing black middle class in the south got tired of sitting in the back of the bus).

I also think that there should be a major education reform. As a society we put way to much emphasis on going to college. People in the industrial and agricultural backwaters would be better served by more vocational training (I'm not talking about eliminating the academic programs but offering a choice to go to a trade school).

American high schools are increasingly geared toward putting kids on the college path....but that neglects people who are tempermentally unsuited for college or a professional career. I think vouchers would be a good way to offer this option.

I am all for spending more money to help these people get rid of the drug dealer's, muggers, and gang bangers that plague their neighborhoods. It will require the cooperation of the residents to do this though. They have to be willing to call the cops, they have to be willing to testify in court, and when they sit on a jury they have to be willing to convict the guilty and not make excuses for them.

What I will not do is subsidize Frank's crack dealing hero.

Everyone should have the chance to get a good education that will provide the opportunity to get a good job. But you can't make people take advantage of the opportunity...I'm willing to see to it the chance is there but it is up to you to have the ability live the academic/vocational life.

I am not opposed to the government providing work-fare...the WPA style program. That is to give people a chance to earn a living wage in return for honorable work...I don't happen to think that working for a living is archaic.

And Stackly...you bet your ass a tour of duty in the US Armed forces is damned honorable service. Veterans, as a group, are among the most succesful people in the country. The self discipline, work ethic, and sense of responsibility you gain from the military will be with you all your life....and it is far more useful than any particular trade or skill you might pick up.

And for the KKKarlin crap....why don't you get off that vespa and stand and fight. Not impressed with drive-by taunts.