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Regarding the international scene, he stated, "We cannot lessen our defense." He cited as concerns the growing influence of al Qaeda in several countries, the "unpredictable" leader in North Korea, the "humanitarian disaster" in Syria and the facilities in Iran that could be altered to produce nuclear weapons. He also mentioned the situations in countries such as China and Russia that must be monitored. Cyber technology remains a threat, with more than 100,000 attempted hostile attacks a day and the "capability to take down water, power [and] banking" computer systems. He believes intelligence gathering is neces- sary to keep the country safe and, in doing so, we can protect security and freedom. Panetta stated, "I do believe in American lead- ership. … We must be willing to fight for it." He identified Hillary Clinton as someone with leadership qualities and former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush as a viable Republican candidate for the presidency. Panetta has lived the American dream. His parents emigrated from Italy in the 1930s to give their children a better life. They settled in Monterey, CA, where they opened a restau- rant. Later they bought a farm, where they grew walnuts. Panetta worked in the restau- rant and on the farm during his formative years. The son of immigrants was elected to Congress as a representative from California, became director of the Office of Management and Budget, served as Chief of Staff to President William Clinton, led the CIA and was named as Secretary of Defense in 2011, a position he left in 2013. He told the Van Wezel audi- ence, "Dreams are just dreams unless you're willing" to do what is necessary to make them happen. % • Gene Burgess and Melonie Burgess, licensed acupuncture physicians • Serving Sarasota since 2008 • Treatment rates are on a sliding scale, from $15-$35; new patients pay a one-time additional fee of $10 AFFORDABLE ACUPUNCTURE FOR EVERYONE 3615 Webber St • Sarasota, FL 34232 (941) 922-4611 SarasotaCommunityAcupuncture.com Open Tuesday through Saturday Our Mission To provide our community with high quality and affordable acupuncture and herbal medicine and to create a treatment space that connects people and builds community. Click for larger map and driving directions Click To Schedule An Appointment Online MENTION THIS AD TO RECEIVE $5 OFF THE NEW PATIENT FEE Sarasota News Leader March 28, 2014 Page 72