Non-Controversy

In an attempt to do some "investigative reporting", I've recently contacted a controversial group with a request to join. They've ignored me. I can't tell you how annoying that has been for me.

With all this talk about border problems & illegal immigrant rallies, I couldn't help but notice that the nation is sharply divided over the group The Minutemen (or at least the people who have heard of them are sharply divided).

It's a sort of vigilante group that's taken it upon themselves to reinforce our borders. I can respect that. Crazy vigilante groups have always held a fascination for me. Someday, I'll delve into this more deeply with an ode to Batman, greatest superhero ever. But I digress.

There is definitely a need for tighter border security in our country, as evidenced by the fact that large groups of criminals are organizing rallies around the country. But the fact that "security", as it is, is being left up to Bubba & Cletus Everyman is just as disturbing.

In an attempt to do our civic duty of investigating this buzzed-about movement, Mr. Steph & I went to The Minuteman website & filled out a form stating that we wanted to start a chapter here. Never got a response. Huge bummer, no acknowledgement whatsoever. I know that Pittsburgh isn't exactly a hotbed of illegal immigration. Hell, most of the people born here flee at some point in their lives. But you'd think a truly fanatical movement would appreciate the need for prevention & embrace proactive attempts.

So I'm left to wonder what all the fuss is about. Apparently this group is less fanatic than their critics would have you believe. It makes me wonder exactly how they're protecting our borders & why naysayers make such a big deal out of it. My mental images of drunken hillbillies brandishing automatic weapons has forever been tarnished. In it's place, there are equally frightening images of somewhat liberal rednecks offering the scofflaws baloney sandwiches & casually driving them back to the other side of some unseen line in a new Gator, with a stern admonishment "not to try that again".

I don't know what to think. It's disapointing when one's stereotypes are called into question and it truly shakes one's foundations, I'll tell you what.

In celebration of the wholly American redneck way of life, don't forget to set the DVR for tonight's episode of King of the Hill. It's a special 200th episode celebration.