George,

Watching the "talking heads" and their never-ending criticism of President Obama's lack of "style" and "charisma", Chica [see note, below] reminds me of another president whose "style" became known as "speaking softly and carrying a big stick", if any need reminding, he was a Republican by the name of Theodore Roosevelt. After yesterday's meeting with the corporate honchos of BP, I think our president's "big stick" was wielded with effectiveness!

I am also reminded of two individuals in our history well known for overwhelming style and charisma, generals Douglas MacArthur and George Patton, both ultimately relieved of their command largely for putting style before getting the job done in the best interest of the United States of America.

As for my personal choice, I'll choose competency over style any day.

Strutting aboard an aircraft carrier in a flight pressure suit and declaring "Mission Accomplished" or wanting an enemy "Dead Or Alive" might be great style, but need I say more?

# # #

I just returned from a three week stay in Michigan and was happy to see the citizens of Michigan largely driving American-manufactured automobiles. With fourteen percent unemployment, they get it!

Bumper sticker observed, "Want More Joblessness? Buy Foreign."

Harry Tenney (Electronic mail, June 17, 2010)

Editor's Note: Elizabeth 'Chica' Tenney is Harry Tenney's wife, a renowned artist