Instead of the British Isles, McGrath? Educate us all you like- we need it- but make use of the power that the US has- don't denigrate it or give up on it. The US has the potential of being a good part of the solution for the world's ills- we have water, arable land, space, and most important of all: a mix of the world's best minds. We need inspiration and direction. And time. God grant that we have time.

Fionn, it shouldn't surprise anyone that Alaska lusts after the untouched lands. Take a look at Senator Frank Murkowski, Representative Don Young and Representative Ted Stevens. Three of a kind.

My own view is that the US needs Alaska the same way as the world needs the Serengheti plains. It's a unique place that can be kept pristine and a special destination for generations to come. It's just that we need to understand that, to see it clearly, to make it possible.

Ebbie