Yeah, I guess........but I can't help but notice that over the years, we put or helped to put, a lot of those tyrants in power (and I mean a lot). Never underestimate the power of cheap oil to help us overlook a few character flaws(including our own) .

Dave, you sound like a smart, articulate, and most importantly, reasonable, guy. You should join that bunch of eggheads that hang out at THE BAR, from time to time. A lot of good non-confrontational conversations happen there from time to time.

chas