"Ben Franklin -- all he ever did was fly a kite," George, hyperbole spoils your argument. Mr. Franklin invented lightning rods from his experiment with his kite. Then there was the Franklin stove, among other things. He was a prolific publisher and author. His service as Minister to France during the Revolution was instrumental in securing French money, arms, and men for our cause. Then there was the Postal Service, organised fire departments, etc. Many of his quotes are remembered today; about the Revolution: "We must all hang together, or most assuredly we shall all hang separately." About our government, when asked what it was, "A republic, Madam, if you can keep it." About freedom and security; " A man who will give up liberty for security deserves neither liberty nor security." Those last two we might consider rather timely today. Stan