This is Viewpoints for Thursday, December 21, 2017

Deficits — another perspective

How can Social Security, coupled with Medicare and Medicaid, escape the knife, considering these programs, collectively represent a near majority of the federal budget? Cutting taxes for individuals, will only dig a deeper deficit hole for the nation. All Americans will appear to benefit from the proposed cuts — but is it the solution that will reduce the deficit/debt in excess of 21 trillion dollars? Run your house off deficits/debts in perpetuity and see how fast you wind up in bankruptcy court.

Households typically reduce their expenses or find another job to meet the challenge; however, our government usually resorts to raising taxes, cutting programs, etc. In view of the aforementioned debt, how can we possibly reduce the deficit by lowering taxes across the board?

We too often attack the very entities that can significantly reduce this burden and create a state of surplus — cutting corporate taxes to level their competitive playing field is a good start to spur the economy’s growth.

Gold Star Christmas Tree

After entering the White House through the eastern entrance, guests are welcomed by greeters and handed a brochure about the various displays in the home. However, before going any further, the attendant will point your attention to specific tree that sits at the top of the stairway, better known as The Gold Star tree.

The Gold Star tree honors the families of fallen American service members. It is covered in patriotic ribbon and golden stars with a large gold star on top. The tree also honors active duty service members in a very special way. The tree includes four iPad stations, where visitors may write messages to active duty service members for the holidays. These messages will then be sent to troops serving abroad who will not be able to be home for Christmas.

According to the first lady:

“In the East Wing, visitors find a tribute to our service members and their families with the Gold Star Family Tree.... Visitors are encouraged to write a message to their loved ones who are on duty or abroad on the digital tablets provided.”

This is not the first time the White House has honored our service members with decorations. However, this bold, up-front attempt to honor and encourage the troops will surely be appreciated.

This story was originally published December 20, 2017 at 9:00 PM with the headline "This is Viewpoints for Thursday, December 21, 2017."