Columnist Ruthe Deskin: Multitudes of opinions on Iraq

Ruthe Deskin

Thursday, Aug. 22, 2002 | 8:17 a.m.

"Everyone has a right to their opinion."

That was President Bush's answer to reporters questioning the administration's plan for war against Iraq.

My problem is trying to form an opinion with all the conflicting views circulating around Washington, and being dispersed by the media throughout the land.

It's definitely a case of the hawks vs. the doves as the stage is set for dramatic arguments on each side. The average citizen is left bewildered and frightened.

Even the president's top advisors are divided on the need for immediate military action.

President Bush is adamant in his belief that Saddam Hussein must go. It has been reported the Pentagon is developing war plans. The State Department prefers working diplomatically. The Central Intelligence Agency is planning covert activity.

Those in favor of military action -- and soon -- believe Saddam must be eliminated before he has a chance to stockpile chemical and nuclear weapons.

Others recommend a more temperate approach. The media pundits are divided.

There is concern on Capitol Hill that countries who have been declared allies in the war on terrorism do not favor military action against Saddam at this time.

Even the most powerful Kurdish leader in Northern Iraq refused an invitation to meet with Saddam's opposition at the White House.

With all the rumor and innuendo, how can an average citizen separate truth from fiction and form an opinion?

In my many years on this good old Earth, I have witnessed our country suffer greatly from misunderstanding and miscalculation by our leaders.

Our best hope would be that the president and his advisors know what they are doing.

Were I to form a hard and fast opinion, it would be based on purely personal concerns: "War is not healthy for children and other living things."

With close friends and relatives of draft age, my inclination would be to stick with the doves and hope that Saddam's demise would not come at the cost of many young lives.

Tie a string around your finger to not forget one of the most popular and colorful events set for Sept. 20 through Sept. 22.

It's the annual Greek Food Festival on the grounds of St. John's Greek Orthodox Church.

A huge Greek bazaar will be set up featuring food, folk dancing, music and games.

Value coupon books are on sale before the festival. Prices are moderate, and I can guarantee you will get more than your money's worth.

For more information call 248-3896.

The Depression of the 1930s was a horrible experience.

We are told it can't happen again. Let's hope the financial prognosticators are right.

The state Board of Regents seems to have little compunction about spending money.

They really believe in higher education.