| Joyful Giving |
14 April 2003
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Tax Day Bargains
April 15 is the most hated day on the American calendar. This is the day when the paperwork must be mailed so that Uncle Sam gets paid the right amount. Everyone complains, many demand lower rates, some a flat tax, but no one is happy. Yet, government in the USA remains one of the best values in the service market.
For just thousands a year per capita, Americans get the best military in existence. After marching into Baghdad, America's armed forces have a record of 9 wins, 1 loss and a tie, in addition to several "friendly" matches against Native and Latin American teams.
More seriously, the roads of America are worth every penny. The air traffic control system is a marvel. The fact that Social Security checks reach old folks each and every month deserves three cheers. The student loan program and the FHA make education and homeownership possible for many who would otherwise be ignorant renters. The Center for Disease Control has fought the war on bacteria and viruses better than Mr. Bush has fought the war on terror.
Whining about taxes is normal, but the real issue is that they aren't high enough. That deficit of $300 billion should be paid for, not thrown into the outstanding bill pile. And there are some expenditures on bridges and the environment that can't wait. Anyone for a 5% tax hike? It would be money well spent.