For all our angst and concern about the depiction of women, this article is on the mark. My husband returned from a meeting at a civic event that involved mostly men (low to middle class) and he can tell you there is very much a sexual element to this appointment. The "babe" component was noted more often than any presidential qualifications. It even appears that there is a element of identification with McCain as to how good his fortunes have suddenly become...hanging out with the "babe". Just because you don't like the message, don't discount the messenger.

Rebecca, this was an inspiring (filled with the Spirit) essay. It's too bad that people who are blessed by art are not as likely to comment as those people who have bleak souls and seem to want to find fault. Have faith, have hope, yes we can.

Joan Walsh is an intelligent competent professional person. As much as we can rejoice in Obama's election, we need to be mindful that there are still many groups of people who are discounted for their gifts and abilities. Until this country can marginalize ignorant jerks and open more avenues for our best and brightest, regardless of race, sexual orientation or religon, we will never achieve our full opportunity for greatness.

Let's begin by calling a jerk a jerk! (that's you Dick Armey)

Thank you, Joan, for calling this to our attention. People forget why Jesus was even needed...none of us have the answers. I was brought up in a liberal Catholic environment where the then Pope spoke of the "seamless garment". When Jesus died lots were cast for his robe. The legend is it was woven as a single piece of fabric. Sanctity of human life reflects it's self in so many issues besides capital punishment and pro-choice/abortion decisions. I miss the priests & nuns that were once allowed to use their own descretion. I have since left the Catholic Church for the Episcopal Church.

Joan you are right on! Firefighting is so dangerous that a sub-culture develops based on fellowship. That fellowship typically continues via relationships established through families. In your case it's Irish Catholics, here it's Italian Americans.

It's hard for small communities to embrace outside resources. It was a big deal when our local firehouse (all volunteer) acknowledged the best firefighter of the year who happened to be a young woman.

Keep standing your ground. The ideal is for any work force to mirror the population of a community.