Tuesday, March 28, 2006
They are just figuring this out now?
Officials: Water in Mass. Possibly Tainted
These are the same people that have elected Ted Kennedy every 6 years since the mid 60's and Jon Kerry since the mid 80's. Of course the water is tainted.
These are the same people that have elected Ted Kennedy every 6 years since the mid 60's and Jon Kerry since the mid 80's. Of course the water is tainted.
Thursday, March 16, 2006
Blogger is worth...
...every penny that I have never paid for it....
Friday, March 03, 2006
Loving the Old Commie Bastard
Our friend with the stained head, Mikhail Gorbachev, is getting a lot of love in the media this week since he is turning 75. Hilariously, the same media who love him would have been out of business real quick had they tried to report anything when good 'ol Gorby was in charge of the Soviet Union. Let's have a look:
MSNBC - MOSCOW — Mikhail Sergeyevich Gorbachev is perhaps the prime example of a prophet who is not revered in his own country. Even 15 years after he lost political power, he is still the man most Russians love to hate.
Yet Gorbachev, who is arguably the man most responsible for ending the Cold War...
Gee, maybe they hate his guts because they lived under his tyranny. And, I'll get to the "ending the Cold War" in a second.
Gorbachev, Almost 75, Sounds Off on U.S. ABC - MOSCOW Mar 1, 2006 (AP)— Mikhail Gorbachev's magnetic brown eyes shine as brightly as ever, and he speaks with the same passion about the collapse of the Soviet Union as he prepares to mark his 75th birthday on Thursday.
The man who ended the Cold War and launched democratic reforms that broke the repressive Soviet regime continues to enjoy the limelight, globe-trotting on behalf of his political foundation and environmental group and taking part in charity projects.
With that headline, the body of the story should have said "Who gives a damn what he has to say?"
Anyway, it is beyond pathetic how the media now gives him credit for ending the Cold War. He ended it by being the man in charge when the events Ronald Reagan (the real man responsible for ending the Cold War) put into place came crashing to a head.
Using their logic, allow me to save reporters some work for their future columns and write some similar sentences for them:
- "Japan, who ended World War II by being nuked,..."
- "Mike Tyson, who ended the fight by being knocked out by Lennox Lewis,..."
- "Alexander Hamilton, who resolved his dispute with Aaron Burr by being shot and killed,..."
- "Abraham Lincoln, who caused that night's performance of "Our American Cousin" to end early,..."
F Gorbachev.
MSNBC - MOSCOW — Mikhail Sergeyevich Gorbachev is perhaps the prime example of a prophet who is not revered in his own country. Even 15 years after he lost political power, he is still the man most Russians love to hate.
Yet Gorbachev, who is arguably the man most responsible for ending the Cold War...
Gee, maybe they hate his guts because they lived under his tyranny. And, I'll get to the "ending the Cold War" in a second.
Gorbachev, Almost 75, Sounds Off on U.S. ABC - MOSCOW Mar 1, 2006 (AP)— Mikhail Gorbachev's magnetic brown eyes shine as brightly as ever, and he speaks with the same passion about the collapse of the Soviet Union as he prepares to mark his 75th birthday on Thursday.
The man who ended the Cold War and launched democratic reforms that broke the repressive Soviet regime continues to enjoy the limelight, globe-trotting on behalf of his political foundation and environmental group and taking part in charity projects.
With that headline, the body of the story should have said "Who gives a damn what he has to say?"
Anyway, it is beyond pathetic how the media now gives him credit for ending the Cold War. He ended it by being the man in charge when the events Ronald Reagan (the real man responsible for ending the Cold War) put into place came crashing to a head.
Using their logic, allow me to save reporters some work for their future columns and write some similar sentences for them:
- "Japan, who ended World War II by being nuked,..."
- "Mike Tyson, who ended the fight by being knocked out by Lennox Lewis,..."
- "Alexander Hamilton, who resolved his dispute with Aaron Burr by being shot and killed,..."
- "Abraham Lincoln, who caused that night's performance of "Our American Cousin" to end early,..."
F Gorbachev.
Sunday, October 23, 2005
Why I Hate College Football Polls, Part 3,654
The new rankings are out, and 2 dopes changed their votes for Number 1, switching their #1 vote from USC to Texas. Take a look at this genius' logic on why:
"I didn't move USC down as much as I moved Texas up," said Joe Giglio of The News & Observer of Raleigh, N.C., one of two voters to switch Texas and USC this week. "I feel [the Longhorns] have a more complete résumé and I'm really impressed with how they've handled their business."
A more complete resume? Is he serious? Let's compare resumes:
USC - Undefeated, 28 straight wins, 2-time defending national champions.
Texas - Undefeated, 14 straight wins.
A more complete resume? Give me a break. Look, I am an Arizona State and Penn State fan, so I got no dog in this hunt. But this dope's comments tells you all you need to know how much the ranking system is a joke.
"I didn't move USC down as much as I moved Texas up," said Joe Giglio of The News & Observer of Raleigh, N.C., one of two voters to switch Texas and USC this week. "I feel [the Longhorns] have a more complete résumé and I'm really impressed with how they've handled their business."
A more complete resume? Is he serious? Let's compare resumes:
USC - Undefeated, 28 straight wins, 2-time defending national champions.
Texas - Undefeated, 14 straight wins.
A more complete resume? Give me a break. Look, I am an Arizona State and Penn State fan, so I got no dog in this hunt. But this dope's comments tells you all you need to know how much the ranking system is a joke.
Monday, October 17, 2005
Laugh of the month
Last night, a friend of mine and I were talking about the Iraqi vote, and I said, "I haven't seen any stories hinting at fraud yet." He replied, "Oh, you'll see them soon enough. As expected, I saw this inevitable headline on AP and almost fell over laughing:
Iraqis Probe 'Unusually High' Yes Tally
That headline is hilarious on many levels. Think about what it says. Remember when Saddam was winning 99% of the vote all the headlines the AP ran questioning the vote total? Neither do I. And, were Iraqis at that time probing the "unusually high" totals? Of course not. Saddam and his scumbag sons would have had them in the shredder by nightfall. The only people who find the "Yes" total unusual are liberal assholes at places like the AP, who think that Iraqis were better off under Saddam.
BAGHDAD, Iraq - Iraq's election commission announced Monday that officials were investigating "unusually high" numbers of "yes" votes in about a dozen provinces during Iraq's landmark referendum on a new constitution, raising questions about irregularities in the balloting.
Word of the review came as Sunni Arab leaders repeated accusations of fraud after initial reports from the provinces suggested the constitution had passed. Among the Sunni allegations are that police took ballot boxes from heavily "no" districts, and that some "yes" areas had more votes than registered voters.
More votes than registered voters? Sounds like Philly, Chicago, and Milwaukee. Maybe the Iraqis are getting the hang of this democracy thing even faster than I thought.
Iraqis Probe 'Unusually High' Yes Tally
That headline is hilarious on many levels. Think about what it says. Remember when Saddam was winning 99% of the vote all the headlines the AP ran questioning the vote total? Neither do I. And, were Iraqis at that time probing the "unusually high" totals? Of course not. Saddam and his scumbag sons would have had them in the shredder by nightfall. The only people who find the "Yes" total unusual are liberal assholes at places like the AP, who think that Iraqis were better off under Saddam.
BAGHDAD, Iraq - Iraq's election commission announced Monday that officials were investigating "unusually high" numbers of "yes" votes in about a dozen provinces during Iraq's landmark referendum on a new constitution, raising questions about irregularities in the balloting.
Word of the review came as Sunni Arab leaders repeated accusations of fraud after initial reports from the provinces suggested the constitution had passed. Among the Sunni allegations are that police took ballot boxes from heavily "no" districts, and that some "yes" areas had more votes than registered voters.
More votes than registered voters? Sounds like Philly, Chicago, and Milwaukee. Maybe the Iraqis are getting the hang of this democracy thing even faster than I thought.
Monday, September 12, 2005
Guest blogging
I am one of the guest bloggers at Right Thinking from the Left Coast for the next two weeks. Stop by...
Sunday, September 04, 2005
That jackass New Orleans mayor strikes again
Kust when I thought New Orleans mayor Ray Nagin couldn't be a bigger jackass, he goes and says this:
"Today was a turning point, I think," he said. "My philosophy is never get too high, never get too low. ... I always try to keep my emotions in check and yesterday I kind of went off a little bit. I was worried about that, but it maybe worked out. I don't know. If the CIA slips me something and next week you don't see me, you'll all know what happened."
Yeah, OK. Just like Bush had Michael Moore, Howard Dean, and Ted Kennedy killed.
"Today was a turning point, I think," he said. "My philosophy is never get too high, never get too low. ... I always try to keep my emotions in check and yesterday I kind of went off a little bit. I was worried about that, but it maybe worked out. I don't know. If the CIA slips me something and next week you don't see me, you'll all know what happened."
Yeah, OK. Just like Bush had Michael Moore, Howard Dean, and Ted Kennedy killed.
Saturday, September 03, 2005
R.I.P. Chief
May God Bless Chief Justice Rehnquist's soul.
Friday, September 02, 2005
Let's speculate for a moment, shall we
NEW ORLEANS (AP) - Less than one minute after the levees broke, flooding New Orleans, President Bush announced that he was appointing Rudy Guiliani as leader of the recovery effort. "Tough times call for tested leadership," the President stated. "Mayor Guilani has experience in coordinating recovery efforts and I know he'll do a fantastic job."
Reaction to this announcement was swift. "New Orleans has their own perfectly competent leader," civil rights leader Jesse Jackson angrily replied. "Of course, Bush can't have a black man, especially a former Republican who changed parties, looking good on TV."
Howard Dean, DNC chairman accused Bush of putting politics over saving lives. "In a time of dire need, Bush instead chooses politics over lives in an attempt to annoint his successor rather than let the Democrats in charge of New Orleans and Louisiana get all the glory."
With Bush seeing some of the lowest approval numbers of his Presidency, others have suggested his overeagerness is to deflect attention from his failures in Iraq. "He must think we're stupid," claimed a poor, lesbian, African-American woman who refused to give her name. "He is getting our people killed over there for oil while he does nothing when black people are dying by the thousands."
Is there any doubt this would be the story if Bush took charge from the first minute?
Is there any doubt this would be the story if Bush reacted instantaneously?
Reaction to this announcement was swift. "New Orleans has their own perfectly competent leader," civil rights leader Jesse Jackson angrily replied. "Of course, Bush can't have a black man, especially a former Republican who changed parties, looking good on TV."
Howard Dean, DNC chairman accused Bush of putting politics over saving lives. "In a time of dire need, Bush instead chooses politics over lives in an attempt to annoint his successor rather than let the Democrats in charge of New Orleans and Louisiana get all the glory."
With Bush seeing some of the lowest approval numbers of his Presidency, others have suggested his overeagerness is to deflect attention from his failures in Iraq. "He must think we're stupid," claimed a poor, lesbian, African-American woman who refused to give her name. "He is getting our people killed over there for oil while he does nothing when black people are dying by the thousands."
Is there any doubt this would be the story if Bush took charge from the first minute?
Is there any doubt this would be the story if Bush reacted instantaneously?
Is there a bigger jackass...
than New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin? There can't possibly be.
"Get off your asses and let's do something," the mayor told WWL-AM Thursday night in a rambling interview in which he cursed, yelled and ultimately burst into tears. At one point he said: "Excuse my French _ everybody in America _ but I am pissed."
How about you get off your ass first, you incompetent son of a bitch!! YOU are the mayor the city. It is YOUR job to lead in a crisis like this, first and foremost, not to wait for the big daddy federal government to take care of it. Your government is corrupt, your leadership is a joke.
This incompetent fool ordered the city to evacuate before the hurricane. Where were the buses that you are whining about now back when you made the order? And, when you ordered all those people to the Superdome, did it ever occur to you to make sure there were supplies there, or to get them there quickly?
What we are seeing now is the inevitable result of an incompetent mayor, a corrupt government, and corrupt police force who have failed to address the outrageous crime and murder rate in that city. I am sick of hearing the complainers who have everyone from Bush on down to blame but have offered no help or leadership themselves.
May God save New Orleans.
"Get off your asses and let's do something," the mayor told WWL-AM Thursday night in a rambling interview in which he cursed, yelled and ultimately burst into tears. At one point he said: "Excuse my French _ everybody in America _ but I am pissed."
How about you get off your ass first, you incompetent son of a bitch!! YOU are the mayor the city. It is YOUR job to lead in a crisis like this, first and foremost, not to wait for the big daddy federal government to take care of it. Your government is corrupt, your leadership is a joke.
This incompetent fool ordered the city to evacuate before the hurricane. Where were the buses that you are whining about now back when you made the order? And, when you ordered all those people to the Superdome, did it ever occur to you to make sure there were supplies there, or to get them there quickly?
What we are seeing now is the inevitable result of an incompetent mayor, a corrupt government, and corrupt police force who have failed to address the outrageous crime and murder rate in that city. I am sick of hearing the complainers who have everyone from Bush on down to blame but have offered no help or leadership themselves.
May God save New Orleans.
Tuesday, August 30, 2005
God Bless New Orleans, Mississippi, and Alabama
Please pray for our fellow Americans who have been deeply affected by Hurricane Katrina.
Also, if you got a few bucks to spare, please take a look at one of the charities that Professor Reynolds has listed.
Also, if you got a few bucks to spare, please take a look at one of the charities that Professor Reynolds has listed.
Thursday, August 25, 2005
What's the old saying?
Be careful what you wish for...
Palestinians fear Gaza health crisis after Israeli pullout
Everything is Israel's fault, even if Palestinians have inadequate health care. Ridiculous.
Palestinians fear Gaza health crisis after Israeli pullout
Everything is Israel's fault, even if Palestinians have inadequate health care. Ridiculous.
Tuesday, August 23, 2005
Who is that?
U.S. Dodges Robertson Comments on Chavez
I didn't know anyone cared what Gary U.S. Bonds thought about anything.
I didn't know anyone cared what Gary U.S. Bonds thought about anything.
Thursday, August 11, 2005
Is that 2005?
Because you never know with these clowns.
Envoys: Iran Faces Sept. Deadline on Nukes
VIENNA, Austria - The U.N. nuclear watchdog expressed "serious concern" Thursday over Iran's resumption of nuclear activities that could lead to an atomic bomb and diplomats said Tehran faced a September deadline to stop uranium conversion at a plant in central Iran.
The Iranians resumed work at the nuclear facility in Isfahan earlier this week, despite appeals from European negotiators to maintain a voluntary suspension of nuclear activities.
It gets better.
Diplomats, who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to be quoted, made clear that insufficient progress by Sept. 3 could lead the board to consider reporting Iran to the U.N. Security Council, which has the power to slap the regime with crippling sanctions.
I'll bet Iran is scared now.
Envoys: Iran Faces Sept. Deadline on Nukes
VIENNA, Austria - The U.N. nuclear watchdog expressed "serious concern" Thursday over Iran's resumption of nuclear activities that could lead to an atomic bomb and diplomats said Tehran faced a September deadline to stop uranium conversion at a plant in central Iran.
The Iranians resumed work at the nuclear facility in Isfahan earlier this week, despite appeals from European negotiators to maintain a voluntary suspension of nuclear activities.
It gets better.
Diplomats, who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to be quoted, made clear that insufficient progress by Sept. 3 could lead the board to consider reporting Iran to the U.N. Security Council, which has the power to slap the regime with crippling sanctions.
I'll bet Iran is scared now.
Friday, August 05, 2005
Funniest thing I've seen in months
Check out these mis-translations on the bootleg Star Wars Episode 3 bootleg DVD. Hilarious!!
Thursday, July 28, 2005
What would we do without CNN?
This headline is beyond hilarious:
Roberts documents reveal a conservative
In other related news, CNN is reporting that documents reveal that Ted Kennedy is a liberal Democrat and that Clarence Thomas is a non-white.
Roberts documents reveal a conservative
In other related news, CNN is reporting that documents reveal that Ted Kennedy is a liberal Democrat and that Clarence Thomas is a non-white.
Tuesday, May 17, 2005
"Fake but accurate", and it's Bush's fault
Do you not love how Newsweek and their accomplices in the bullshit liberal media are spinning Newsweek's bullshit story into it being Bush trying to impose censorship on them? There is nothing sillier than hearing people go on 6 different networks and appearing in ever major newspaper crying about that they have no freedom of speech rights. I am beyond pissed about this Newsweek story.
If the media wants to know who took their rights to a free press, all they have to do is look into the nearest mirror. They threw their own rights and their credibility into the toilet when they willingly became shills for the liberal agenda and the Democratic Party.
If the media wants to know who took their rights to a free press, all they have to do is look into the nearest mirror. They threw their own rights and their credibility into the toilet when they willingly became shills for the liberal agenda and the Democratic Party.
Friday, May 13, 2005
Bet they are preparing their surrender already
Wednesday, April 27, 2005
Only 3 weeks away
In exactly 3 weeks from this moment, I will be sitting at a midnight showing of Revenge of the Sith. I cannot wait. I got the tickets, I just need the night to get here.
Kevin Smith has seen it. Read his review here. Warning: Spoilers and language mom would not approve of.
And then there is this fake poster put out last year by someone who thought they had the inside dope on the title. Frankly, I like this one better than anything Lucas' people have put out.
General Grevious could be a stroke of brilliance...or an unmitigated disaster. We'll know soon enough.
And, if you read this far, you might be interested in this 7 minute clip I found.
Kevin Smith has seen it. Read his review here. Warning: Spoilers and language mom would not approve of.
And then there is this fake poster put out last year by someone who thought they had the inside dope on the title. Frankly, I like this one better than anything Lucas' people have put out.
General Grevious could be a stroke of brilliance...or an unmitigated disaster. We'll know soon enough.
And, if you read this far, you might be interested in this 7 minute clip I found.
Tuesday, April 26, 2005
This might be fake, but who cares?
Monday, April 25, 2005
All your Star Wars info can be found...
at my favorite place, TheForce.Net.
Friday, April 01, 2005
Thank you Holy Father
Sometime in the next day or so, or even tonight, the Pope will be gone. I wanted to recommend to each of you that sometime perhaps in the near future that you take a few minutes to read about one of the finest men who ever lived, Karol Wojtyla, known to the world as Pope John Paul II.
Whether you are Catholic, Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist, Sikh, Atheist, or Agnostic, or you just don't care at all about religion, it does not matter. The Pope is a man of both theological and secular brilliance, of pure decency, and has had a tremendous impact on our world since 1978. We will all be a bit poorer after his loss.
I think that many of you would be surprised how much agreement you would find with him, whether you are liberal or conservative. For example, here are some things about the Pope that you might not know:
- He is an unwavering, unapologetic opponent of the death penalty, and has spoken out for years about it.
- He was against the war in Iraq
- He fought both publicly and behind the scenes to help free Eastern Europe
- He has been a staunch advocate for the poor and underprivileged
- He is friends with U2's Bono
- He single-handely convinced Fidel Castro to let Cubans celebrate Christmas again.
- He is a staunch opponent of abortion
- He is against euthanasia
Perhaps you do not agree with all of his positions. I certainly don't, and I love an respect the man to no end. I saw him speak at Giants Stadium years ago, and I will never forget it. And, I will never forget when he came to visit Philadelphia in 1979 and my mother took me to see him. 2 million people lined up over a 2 1/2 mile stretch just to have a glimpse at him.
Like I said, take a few minutes to read about the man, no matter what you believe politically or religiously. I think you'll be surprised at how great a human being he is, and how many things you agree with him on.
May God Bless his soul.
Thursday, March 10, 2005
Review of the Star Wars Trailer
Once again, I remind you, my life is a real joke sometimes. I spent all day and night working on a 35-page appellate brief and spent 2 1/2 hours studying Civil Procedure. (BOOOOOOOOOORRRRRRIIIIIINGGGGG!) Then, I got home at around 11 or so and immediately went on the laptop to get the Star Wars Trailer. (You can download it here)
After breaking it down and re-watching it frame-by-frame like it was the Zapruder film, all I can say is that this really does look like the movie the last two should have been. It looks dark and nasty, and there is nothing feel good about it. (Although I expect to be quite happy after leaving the theatre) This is the way it is supposed to be. That criminal George Lucas expects it to be the first Star Wars movie to be PG-13, and he doesn't have a problem with it, which is a good thing. (Although I hope he doesn't chicken out. After all, this movie is a guaranteed winner no matter what)
I cannot wait until May 19th. You?
After breaking it down and re-watching it frame-by-frame like it was the Zapruder film, all I can say is that this really does look like the movie the last two should have been. It looks dark and nasty, and there is nothing feel good about it. (Although I expect to be quite happy after leaving the theatre) This is the way it is supposed to be. That criminal George Lucas expects it to be the first Star Wars movie to be PG-13, and he doesn't have a problem with it, which is a good thing. (Although I hope he doesn't chicken out. After all, this movie is a guaranteed winner no matter what)
I cannot wait until May 19th. You?
Wednesday, March 09, 2005
Episode III Trailer
If you are a deadbeat loser like me, and can't wait until tomorrow night to see the new Star Wars III trailer, then you can get it here. I watched it 6 times in a row. Not the best quality, but not bad either.
Yeah, I believe every word of this
Ex-Marine Says Public Version of Saddam Capture Fiction
A former U.S. Marine who participated in capturing ousted Iraqi President Saddam Hussein said the public version of his capture was fabricated.
Ex-Sgt. Nadim Abou Rabeh, of Lebanese descent, was quoted in the Saudi daily al-Medina Wednesday as saying Saddam was actually captured Friday, Dec. 12, 2003, and not the day after, as announced by the U.S. Army.
"I was among the 20-man unit, including eight of Arab descent, who searched for Saddam for three days in the area of Dour near Tikrit, and we found him in a modest home in a small village and not in a hole as announced," Abou Rabeh said.
"We captured him after fierce resistance during which a Marine of Sudanese origin was killed," he said.
He said Saddam himself fired at them with a gun from the window of a room on the second floor. Then they shouted at him in Arabic: "You have to surrender. ... There is no point in resisting."
"Later on, a military production team fabricated the film of Saddam's capture in a hole, which was in fact a deserted well," Abou Rabeh said.
Abou Rabeh was interviewed in Lebanon.
Yeah, OK. Here's a reminder of what Saddam looked like when he was captured. It sure doesn't look like he was living in a house to me.
I am sure we will hear the rebuttals from our fine soldiers in the next day or so.
A former U.S. Marine who participated in capturing ousted Iraqi President Saddam Hussein said the public version of his capture was fabricated.
Ex-Sgt. Nadim Abou Rabeh, of Lebanese descent, was quoted in the Saudi daily al-Medina Wednesday as saying Saddam was actually captured Friday, Dec. 12, 2003, and not the day after, as announced by the U.S. Army.
"I was among the 20-man unit, including eight of Arab descent, who searched for Saddam for three days in the area of Dour near Tikrit, and we found him in a modest home in a small village and not in a hole as announced," Abou Rabeh said.
"We captured him after fierce resistance during which a Marine of Sudanese origin was killed," he said.
He said Saddam himself fired at them with a gun from the window of a room on the second floor. Then they shouted at him in Arabic: "You have to surrender. ... There is no point in resisting."
"Later on, a military production team fabricated the film of Saddam's capture in a hole, which was in fact a deserted well," Abou Rabeh said.
Abou Rabeh was interviewed in Lebanon.
Yeah, OK. Here's a reminder of what Saddam looked like when he was captured. It sure doesn't look like he was living in a house to me.
I am sure we will hear the rebuttals from our fine soldiers in the next day or so.
Uh...let's not
This, my friends, is why I despire Kofi Annan and the U.N.
Let's accept Hezbollah: Annan
UNITED NATIONS: The United Nations must recognise Hezbollah as a force to be reckoned with in implementing the UN resolution calling for the withdrawal of all Syrian forces from Lebanon and the disarmament of the country's militias, Secretary-General Kofi Annan said later on Tuesday.
He was responding to a question about the disarmament of Hezbollah, which showed its strength on Tuesday at a huge pro-Syrian rally in Beirut attended by thousands of people who chanted anti-US slogans.
Annan said the world needs to accept that in every society different groups may hold different views. "Of course, we need to be careful of the forces at work in Lebanese society as we move forward," he said.
"But even the Hezbollah — if I read the message on the placards they are using — they are talking about non-interference by outsiders... which is not entirely at odds with the Security Council resolution, that there should be withdrawal of Syrian troops," Annan told reporters.
"But that having been said, we need to recognise that they are a force in society that one will have to factor in as we implement the resolution," he said.
Only Kofi Annan would take that protest in Beirut seriously, conveniently disregarding the fact that Hezbollah bused in most of those people. Some "moral authority" the U.N. has. When people protest for freedom, they have nothing to say. But when there is "support" for terrorists, Annan can't legitimize it fast enough.
Annan is scum. I will never forgive him for his actions (and inactions) in letting the Rwanda genocide happen.
Let's accept Hezbollah: Annan
UNITED NATIONS: The United Nations must recognise Hezbollah as a force to be reckoned with in implementing the UN resolution calling for the withdrawal of all Syrian forces from Lebanon and the disarmament of the country's militias, Secretary-General Kofi Annan said later on Tuesday.
He was responding to a question about the disarmament of Hezbollah, which showed its strength on Tuesday at a huge pro-Syrian rally in Beirut attended by thousands of people who chanted anti-US slogans.
Annan said the world needs to accept that in every society different groups may hold different views. "Of course, we need to be careful of the forces at work in Lebanese society as we move forward," he said.
"But even the Hezbollah — if I read the message on the placards they are using — they are talking about non-interference by outsiders... which is not entirely at odds with the Security Council resolution, that there should be withdrawal of Syrian troops," Annan told reporters.
"But that having been said, we need to recognise that they are a force in society that one will have to factor in as we implement the resolution," he said.
Only Kofi Annan would take that protest in Beirut seriously, conveniently disregarding the fact that Hezbollah bused in most of those people. Some "moral authority" the U.N. has. When people protest for freedom, they have nothing to say. But when there is "support" for terrorists, Annan can't legitimize it fast enough.
Annan is scum. I will never forgive him for his actions (and inactions) in letting the Rwanda genocide happen.
Monday, March 07, 2005
"I am not Saddam Hussein"
This is a direct quote from that scumbag Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad, who said this in Time magazine:
"Please send this message: I am not Saddam Hussein. I want to co-operate."
I'll bet he does. Bush means business, and clowns like him know it.
Mark Steyn has more brilliance here on this subject.
"Please send this message: I am not Saddam Hussein. I want to co-operate."
I'll bet he does. Bush means business, and clowns like him know it.
Mark Steyn has more brilliance here on this subject.
Let me tell you about North Korea - if I can afford it
Someone linked to a website promoting travel to the worker's paradise North Korea. They aren't too happy about it. Get this:
Due to some inconsiderate people linking directly to our multimedia we were forced to take the content offline since it generated too much traffic.
This kind of careless linking to high-profile sites is typical of the internet where people no longer respect that such links could make free content less available.
We will never charge money to pay for the bandwidth, so if people are going to expect high-quality content they should make their own copy of the large file and share it from their own server.
Questions can be sent to support@korea-dpr.com for technical advice.
Thank you and have a nice day.
Due to some inconsiderate people linking directly to our multimedia we were forced to take the content offline since it generated too much traffic.
This kind of careless linking to high-profile sites is typical of the internet where people no longer respect that such links could make free content less available.
We will never charge money to pay for the bandwidth, so if people are going to expect high-quality content they should make their own copy of the large file and share it from their own server.
Questions can be sent to support@korea-dpr.com for technical advice.
Thank you and have a nice day.
The Honeymoon is Over
Now that Bush has been re-elected, and the main goal of the press is to portray Hillary as a moderate and popular with Republicans, our friends in the media will no longer be writing puff pieces on that "maverick" John McCain.
McCain Group Got Big Cable Donation
WASHINGTON - Sen. John McCain pressed a cable company's case for pricing changes with regulators at the same time a tax-exempt group that he has worked with since its founding solicited $200,000 in contributions from the company.
Help from McCain, who argues for ridding politics of big money, included giving the CEO of Cablevision Systems Corp. the opportunity to testify before his Senate committee, writing a letter of support to the Federal Communication Commission and asking other cable companies to support so-called a la carte pricing.
McCain had expressed interest in exploring the a la carte option for years before Cablevision advocated it, but did not take a formal position with regulators until after the company's first donation came in. Cablevision is the eighth largest cable provider, serving about 3 million customers in the New York area.
I hope he saved all of those fawning stories about him, because those days are over, especially since he is considered a threat to Hillary in 2008.
McCain Group Got Big Cable Donation
WASHINGTON - Sen. John McCain pressed a cable company's case for pricing changes with regulators at the same time a tax-exempt group that he has worked with since its founding solicited $200,000 in contributions from the company.
Help from McCain, who argues for ridding politics of big money, included giving the CEO of Cablevision Systems Corp. the opportunity to testify before his Senate committee, writing a letter of support to the Federal Communication Commission and asking other cable companies to support so-called a la carte pricing.
McCain had expressed interest in exploring the a la carte option for years before Cablevision advocated it, but did not take a formal position with regulators until after the company's first donation came in. Cablevision is the eighth largest cable provider, serving about 3 million customers in the New York area.
I hope he saved all of those fawning stories about him, because those days are over, especially since he is considered a threat to Hillary in 2008.
All the news that fits, they print
I could not help but laugh at this part of a New York Times editorial.
The Republicans are claiming that 51 votes should be enough to win confirmation of the White House's judicial nominees. This flies in the face of Senate history.
Next thing you know, those damn Republicans will claim that the 14th Amendment allows states to keep felons from voting, or that Article I Section 2 forces the House members to stand for election every 2 years.
Seriously, if this flies in the face of history, they must mean real recent history. But, like many have always said, to liberals, history started 10 minutes ago.
The Republicans are claiming that 51 votes should be enough to win confirmation of the White House's judicial nominees. This flies in the face of Senate history.
Next thing you know, those damn Republicans will claim that the 14th Amendment allows states to keep felons from voting, or that Article I Section 2 forces the House members to stand for election every 2 years.
Seriously, if this flies in the face of history, they must mean real recent history. But, like many have always said, to liberals, history started 10 minutes ago.
Gee, I wonder where they got this idea?
Kuwaitis demonstrate for women's suffrage
KUWAIT (Reuters) - Around 500 Kuwaiti activists, mostly women, have demonstrated outside parliament to demand female suffrage amidst tensions in the Gulf Arab state over a government drive to grant women political rights.
"Women's rights now," chanted the crowd, which included women dressed in abayas, or traditional long black cloaks. Some of the demonstrators at Monday's protest wore veils over their faces.
"Our democracy will only be complete with women," said a placard written in Arabic. "We are not less, you are not more. We need a balance, open the door," said one written in English.
For the New York Times, the AP, and CNN, it will be "unclear" as to why these demonstrations are taking place at this point in time. For everyone else, it will be crystal clear.
By the way, am I the only one that finds it interesting that everytime you see protests in foreign countries, especially ones where English is not spoken, most of the signs are in English?
KUWAIT (Reuters) - Around 500 Kuwaiti activists, mostly women, have demonstrated outside parliament to demand female suffrage amidst tensions in the Gulf Arab state over a government drive to grant women political rights.
"Women's rights now," chanted the crowd, which included women dressed in abayas, or traditional long black cloaks. Some of the demonstrators at Monday's protest wore veils over their faces.
"Our democracy will only be complete with women," said a placard written in Arabic. "We are not less, you are not more. We need a balance, open the door," said one written in English.
For the New York Times, the AP, and CNN, it will be "unclear" as to why these demonstrations are taking place at this point in time. For everyone else, it will be crystal clear.
By the way, am I the only one that finds it interesting that everytime you see protests in foreign countries, especially ones where English is not spoken, most of the signs are in English?
Sunday, March 06, 2005
Bush sends his greetings!
I love this part of an article in the New York Times today:
But it is unclear what kind of additional pressure Mr. Bush and his European allies are willing to bring. In Martyrs' Square here, the scene of many demonstrations in recent weeks, thousands of protesters came Saturday morning to watch a broadcast of Mr. Assad's speech on projection screens, at times booing and jeering, or calling "Liar!" and "Bush sends his greetings!"
The protesters, many dressed in white, waved Lebanese flags and called for "freedom, sovereignty and independence."
I wonder if that choice of words has anything to do with what our fine American soldier said when he captured Saddam in that spider hole.
They were about to execute a "clearing procedure" -- firing into the hole or dropping a grenade into it -- when someone saw upraised hands belonging to a bearded, bedraggled man. The man had a pistol but did not fire it.
When the soldiers assisted the man from the hole, he said, in English: "I am Saddam Hussein. I am the president of Iraq. I want to negotiate."
The soldiers replied: "President Bush sends his regards."
Hmmmmm.
But it is unclear what kind of additional pressure Mr. Bush and his European allies are willing to bring. In Martyrs' Square here, the scene of many demonstrations in recent weeks, thousands of protesters came Saturday morning to watch a broadcast of Mr. Assad's speech on projection screens, at times booing and jeering, or calling "Liar!" and "Bush sends his greetings!"
The protesters, many dressed in white, waved Lebanese flags and called for "freedom, sovereignty and independence."
I wonder if that choice of words has anything to do with what our fine American soldier said when he captured Saddam in that spider hole.
They were about to execute a "clearing procedure" -- firing into the hole or dropping a grenade into it -- when someone saw upraised hands belonging to a bearded, bedraggled man. The man had a pistol but did not fire it.
When the soldiers assisted the man from the hole, he said, in English: "I am Saddam Hussein. I am the president of Iraq. I want to negotiate."
The soldiers replied: "President Bush sends his regards."
Hmmmmm.
A communist would never lie
I wonder how much the media will push this storyline on us:
Italian Journalist Rejects U.S. Account
ROME - The Italian journalist wounded by American troops in Iraq after her release by insurgents rejected the U.S. military's account of the shooting and declined Sunday to rule out the possibility she was deliberately targeted. The White House said it was a "horrific accident" and promised a full investigation...
Sgrena, who works for the communist daily Il Manifesto, did not rule out that she was targeted, saying the United States likely disapproved of Italy's methods to secure her release, although she did not elaborate.
"The fact that the Americans don't want negotiations to free the hostages is known," Sgrena told Sky TG24 television by telephone, her voice hoarse and shaky. "The fact that they do everything to prevent the adoption of this practice to save the lives of people held hostages, everybody knows that. So I don't see why I should rule out that I could have been the target."
I love the way she put this. She never said she was a target, only that she does not rule it out.
The U.S. military has said the car Sgrena was riding in was speeding, and Americans used hand and arm signals, flashing white lights and warning shots to get it to stop at the roadblock.
But in an interview with Italian La 7 TV, Sgrena said, "There was no bright light, no signal." She also said the car was traveling at "regular speed."
I find it difficult to believe that our troops shot at the car for no reason. Simply, put, I think she is full of crap. Here's my favorite part:
Suddenly, she said, she remembered her captors' words, when they warned her "to be careful because the Americans don't want you to return."
Sgrena wrote that her captors warned her as she was about to be released not to signal her presence to anyone, because "the Americans might intervene." She said her captors blindfolded her and drove her to a location where she was turned over to agents and they set off for the airport.
I would not be surprised if her kidnapping was staged. Never trust a Communist-sympathizer, nor anyone who rates a BBC puff piece.
Oh,, and via Little Green Footballs comes this howler contained in another left-wing teabag rag, the Guardian:
Sgrena told colleagues the vehicle was not travelling fast and had already passed several checkpoints on its way to the airport. The Americans shone a flashlight at the car and then fired between 300 and 400 bullets at if from an armoured vehicle.
Yeah, sure. If our people fired 300 to 400 bullets, no one would be around to talk about it now.
Italian Journalist Rejects U.S. Account
ROME - The Italian journalist wounded by American troops in Iraq after her release by insurgents rejected the U.S. military's account of the shooting and declined Sunday to rule out the possibility she was deliberately targeted. The White House said it was a "horrific accident" and promised a full investigation...
Sgrena, who works for the communist daily Il Manifesto, did not rule out that she was targeted, saying the United States likely disapproved of Italy's methods to secure her release, although she did not elaborate.
"The fact that the Americans don't want negotiations to free the hostages is known," Sgrena told Sky TG24 television by telephone, her voice hoarse and shaky. "The fact that they do everything to prevent the adoption of this practice to save the lives of people held hostages, everybody knows that. So I don't see why I should rule out that I could have been the target."
I love the way she put this. She never said she was a target, only that she does not rule it out.
The U.S. military has said the car Sgrena was riding in was speeding, and Americans used hand and arm signals, flashing white lights and warning shots to get it to stop at the roadblock.
But in an interview with Italian La 7 TV, Sgrena said, "There was no bright light, no signal." She also said the car was traveling at "regular speed."
I find it difficult to believe that our troops shot at the car for no reason. Simply, put, I think she is full of crap. Here's my favorite part:
Suddenly, she said, she remembered her captors' words, when they warned her "to be careful because the Americans don't want you to return."
Sgrena wrote that her captors warned her as she was about to be released not to signal her presence to anyone, because "the Americans might intervene." She said her captors blindfolded her and drove her to a location where she was turned over to agents and they set off for the airport.
I would not be surprised if her kidnapping was staged. Never trust a Communist-sympathizer, nor anyone who rates a BBC puff piece.
Oh,, and via Little Green Footballs comes this howler contained in another left-wing teabag rag, the Guardian:
Sgrena told colleagues the vehicle was not travelling fast and had already passed several checkpoints on its way to the airport. The Americans shone a flashlight at the car and then fired between 300 and 400 bullets at if from an armoured vehicle.
Yeah, sure. If our people fired 300 to 400 bullets, no one would be around to talk about it now.
Saturday, March 05, 2005
Picture of the weekend
Bush is so incompetent...
...he can't even create terrorists in Iraq anymore.
Militants Scour Europe for Iraq Fighters
BERLIN - Islamic terror groups are becoming increasingly active in Germany and coordinating with militants across Europe to recruit fighters to join the insurgency in Iraq, equipping them with fake passports, money and medical supplies, security officials say.
Militants Scour Europe for Iraq Fighters
BERLIN - Islamic terror groups are becoming increasingly active in Germany and coordinating with militants across Europe to recruit fighters to join the insurgency in Iraq, equipping them with fake passports, money and medical supplies, security officials say.
Laugh of the weekend
I saw this at Powerline and laughed uncontrollably:
Niger cancels 'free-slave' event
The government of Niger has cancelled at the last minute a special ceremony during which at least 7,000 slaves were to be granted their freedom.
A spokesman for the government's human rights commission, which had helped to organise the event, said this was because slavery did not exist.
If slavery didn't exist, why schedule the event to begin with?
Niger cancels 'free-slave' event
The government of Niger has cancelled at the last minute a special ceremony during which at least 7,000 slaves were to be granted their freedom.
A spokesman for the government's human rights commission, which had helped to organise the event, said this was because slavery did not exist.
If slavery didn't exist, why schedule the event to begin with?
Thursday, March 03, 2005
Mark Steyn - Man of Brilliance
In a nutshell, this is why I think Mark Steyn is the top writer in the world today.
The other day I found myself, for the umpteenth time, driving in Vermont behind a Kerry/Edwards supporter whose vehicle also bore the slogan ‘FREE TIBET’. It must be great to be the guy with the printing contract for the ‘FREE TIBET’ stickers. Not so good to be the guy back in Tibet wondering when the freeing thereof will actually get under way. For a while, my otherwise not terribly political wife got extremely irritated by these stickers, demanding to know at a pancake breakfast at the local church what precisely some harmless hippy-dippy old neighbour of ours meant by the slogan he’d been proudly displaying decade in, decade out: ‘But what exactly are you doing to free Tibet?’ she demanded. ‘You’re not doing anything, are you?’ ‘Give the guy a break,’ I said back home. ‘He’s advertising his moral virtue, not calling for action. If Rumsfeld were to say, “Free Tibet? Jiminy, what a swell idea! The Third Infantry Division go in on Thursday”, the bumper-sticker crowd would be aghast.’
But for those of us on the arrogant unilateralist side of things, that’s not how it works. ‘FREE AFGHANISTAN’. Done. ‘FREE IRAQ’. Done. Given the paintwork I pull off every time I have to change the sticker, it might be easier for the remainder of the Bush presidency just to go around with ‘FREE [INSERT YOUR FETID TOTALITARIAN BASKET-CASE HERE]’. Not in your name? Don’t worry, it’s not.
A man of brilliance he is. Anyone want to dispute that?
[Update: I fixed the article, so I believe you do not have to register now. If you still do, or have have to register for site, don't. Go to Bug Me Not to get a login. I always do.]
The other day I found myself, for the umpteenth time, driving in Vermont behind a Kerry/Edwards supporter whose vehicle also bore the slogan ‘FREE TIBET’. It must be great to be the guy with the printing contract for the ‘FREE TIBET’ stickers. Not so good to be the guy back in Tibet wondering when the freeing thereof will actually get under way. For a while, my otherwise not terribly political wife got extremely irritated by these stickers, demanding to know at a pancake breakfast at the local church what precisely some harmless hippy-dippy old neighbour of ours meant by the slogan he’d been proudly displaying decade in, decade out: ‘But what exactly are you doing to free Tibet?’ she demanded. ‘You’re not doing anything, are you?’ ‘Give the guy a break,’ I said back home. ‘He’s advertising his moral virtue, not calling for action. If Rumsfeld were to say, “Free Tibet? Jiminy, what a swell idea! The Third Infantry Division go in on Thursday”, the bumper-sticker crowd would be aghast.’
But for those of us on the arrogant unilateralist side of things, that’s not how it works. ‘FREE AFGHANISTAN’. Done. ‘FREE IRAQ’. Done. Given the paintwork I pull off every time I have to change the sticker, it might be easier for the remainder of the Bush presidency just to go around with ‘FREE [INSERT YOUR FETID TOTALITARIAN BASKET-CASE HERE]’. Not in your name? Don’t worry, it’s not.
A man of brilliance he is. Anyone want to dispute that?
[Update: I fixed the article, so I believe you do not have to register now. If you still do, or have have to register for site, don't. Go to Bug Me Not to get a login. I always do.]
Wednesday, March 02, 2005
The UN Fights Back
Wanna bash Bush? Just run a poll
I cannot believe how many anti-Bush stories are based on polls. I just love this headline in the New York Times:
New Poll Finds Bush Priorities Are Out of Step With Americans
Americans say President Bush does not share the priorities of most of the country on either domestic or foreign issues, are increasingly resistant to his proposal to revamp Social Security and say they are uneasy with Mr. Bush's ability to make the right decisions about the retirement program, according to the latest New York Times/CBS News poll.
Yeah, OK. We are supposed to trust a poll by the 2 biggest Bush-defamers out there. (By the way, whatever happened to that "300 tons of missing weapons" story these two put out there a week before the election?) For laughs, let me analyze a few parts:
Still, 42 percent now say that Mr. Bush would have been better off trying to counter the threat of North Korea before invading Iraq, compared with 45 percent who think Mr. Bush was correct to focus first on Iraq.
If we went after North Korea first, the poll would have said we should have gone after Iraq first. This is a waste of a paragraph.
Four months after Mr. Bush won a solid re-election over Senator John Kerry, 63 percent of respondents say the president has different priorities on domestic issues than most Americans.
And that means...what? Bush has different priorities than me too. So what?
Asked to chose among five domestic issues facing the country, respondents rated Social Security third - behind jobs and health care.
Shocking! A New York Times/CBS polls finds that Americans' priorities are exactly the same as the Democratic Party platfrom.
And nearly 50 percent said Democrats were more likely to make the right decisions about Social Security, compared with 31 percent who said the same thing about Republicans.
Must be the same "nearly 50 percent" who voted for Kerry.
Lisa Delaune, 37, a student from Houston and a member of the Green Party, said in a follow-up interview, "My opinion is that the president favors big business over the health and well-being and overall stability of the entire American population."
Exactly what one would expect from a Green Party member. Does anyone take those people seriously outside of the Times?
And Mr. Bush does not appear to be much more in step with the nation on what the White House has long viewed as his strong suit: 58 percent of respondents said the White House did not share the foreign affairs priorities of most Americans.
4 months ago, Bush was re-elected. Yet, overwhelming majorities are against both his foreign and domestic policies. Why believe the vote totals when polling says otherwise?
And here's a Times staple: Someone who voted for Bush who disagrees with him.
"I don't think he's listening to the people concerning Social Security," said Beverly Workman, a West Virginia Democrat who said she voted for Mr. Bush. "I think the public wants him to leave it alone."
This is my absolute favorite part:
On North Korea, 81 percent said that that nation does indeed now have nuclear weapons.
We need to have a poll to decide if North Korea has nukes or not? Oh, please. Let me leave you with one of my favorite cartoons, which tells you all you need to know about polling.
New Poll Finds Bush Priorities Are Out of Step With Americans
Americans say President Bush does not share the priorities of most of the country on either domestic or foreign issues, are increasingly resistant to his proposal to revamp Social Security and say they are uneasy with Mr. Bush's ability to make the right decisions about the retirement program, according to the latest New York Times/CBS News poll.
Yeah, OK. We are supposed to trust a poll by the 2 biggest Bush-defamers out there. (By the way, whatever happened to that "300 tons of missing weapons" story these two put out there a week before the election?) For laughs, let me analyze a few parts:
Still, 42 percent now say that Mr. Bush would have been better off trying to counter the threat of North Korea before invading Iraq, compared with 45 percent who think Mr. Bush was correct to focus first on Iraq.
If we went after North Korea first, the poll would have said we should have gone after Iraq first. This is a waste of a paragraph.
Four months after Mr. Bush won a solid re-election over Senator John Kerry, 63 percent of respondents say the president has different priorities on domestic issues than most Americans.
And that means...what? Bush has different priorities than me too. So what?
Asked to chose among five domestic issues facing the country, respondents rated Social Security third - behind jobs and health care.
Shocking! A New York Times/CBS polls finds that Americans' priorities are exactly the same as the Democratic Party platfrom.
And nearly 50 percent said Democrats were more likely to make the right decisions about Social Security, compared with 31 percent who said the same thing about Republicans.
Must be the same "nearly 50 percent" who voted for Kerry.
Lisa Delaune, 37, a student from Houston and a member of the Green Party, said in a follow-up interview, "My opinion is that the president favors big business over the health and well-being and overall stability of the entire American population."
Exactly what one would expect from a Green Party member. Does anyone take those people seriously outside of the Times?
And Mr. Bush does not appear to be much more in step with the nation on what the White House has long viewed as his strong suit: 58 percent of respondents said the White House did not share the foreign affairs priorities of most Americans.
4 months ago, Bush was re-elected. Yet, overwhelming majorities are against both his foreign and domestic policies. Why believe the vote totals when polling says otherwise?
And here's a Times staple: Someone who voted for Bush who disagrees with him.
"I don't think he's listening to the people concerning Social Security," said Beverly Workman, a West Virginia Democrat who said she voted for Mr. Bush. "I think the public wants him to leave it alone."
This is my absolute favorite part:
On North Korea, 81 percent said that that nation does indeed now have nuclear weapons.
We need to have a poll to decide if North Korea has nukes or not? Oh, please. Let me leave you with one of my favorite cartoons, which tells you all you need to know about polling.
Teaching tomfoolery in Berkeley
Betsy, one of my favorite bloggers, who I am sure is a fine teacher, has this revealing post about how Berkeley high school teachers are taking out their contract woes on their students. Read it.
Tuesday, March 01, 2005
The Constitution? The Supreme Court once heard of it
Were I a legislator, I would certainly vote for a law that banned the death penalty for those who committed the offense before they were 18. (Just like I would vote to disallow abortions by those under 18 without parental consent) If all I cared about were the outcome, I would not have a problem with the outcome of Roper v. Simmons, in which the Supreme Court (only 16 years after saying otherwise) found that executing those under 18 is unconstitutional.
Read Kennedy's majority opinion, especially Part IV. (And, especially read Scalia's brilliant-as-usual dissent) I do not care much for the "national consensus" rationale, but I can deal with that. What I really despise is the Court citing international treaties, especially ones that we are not a signatory to. Here's an example of what I mean, from Kennedy's opinion:
Our determination that the death penalty is disproportionate punishment for offenders under 18 finds confirmation in the stark reality that the United States is the only country in the world that continues to give official sanction to the juvenile death penalty. This reality does not become controlling, for the task of interpreting the Eighth Amendment remains our responsibility....
It is proper that we acknowledge the overwhelming weight of international opinion against the juvenile death penalty, resting in large part on the understanding that the instability and emotional imbalance of young people may often be a factor in the crime. See Brief for Human Rights Committee of the Bar of England and Wales et al. as Amici Curiae 10.11. The opinion of the world community, while not controlling our outcome, does provide respected and significant confirmation for our own conclusions.
Not controlling? Yeah, right. At least he admits that the world community provides confirmation for the opinion. There is no hiding that, so he might as well say it. I especially find it troubling that Kennedy cited the U.N. Convention on the Rights of a Child, because the United States has not ratified it, and because of the way the U.N. themselves treat young girls all across the world. Perhaps Kennedy should instead lecture Kofi Annan on that treaty, and not us. Kennedy is a judge, not a legislator. His reasoning and justifications are those of lawmakers, and it is disgraceful. Like I said, I agree with the outcome, but no one voted for Kennedy to make the law.
And get this part. Someone needs to remind Kennedy that we kicked the British out of here a long time ago, and that Parliament does not make our laws.
Though the international covenants prohibiting the juvenile death penalty are of more recent date, it is instructive to note that the United Kingdom abolished the juvenile death penalty before these covenants came into being. The United Kingdom's experience bears particular relevance here in light of the historic ties between our countries and in light of the Eighth Amendment's own origins. The Amendment was modeled on a parallel provision in the English Declaration of Rights of 1689, which provided: "[E]xcessive Bail ought not to be required nor excessive Fines imposed; nor cruel and unusuall Punishments inflicted." As of now, the United Kingdom has abolished the death penalty in its entirety; but, decades before it took this step, it recognized the disproportionate nature of the juvenile death penalty; and it abolished that penalty as a separate matter. In 1930 an official committee recommended that the minimum age for execution be raised to 21. House of Commons Report from the Select Committee on Capital Punishment (1930), 193, p. 44. Parliament then enacted the Children and Young Person's Act of 1933, which prevented execution of those aged 18 at the date of the sentence. And in 1948, Parliament enacted the Criminal Justice Act, prohibiting the execution of any person under 18 at the time of the offense. In the 56 years that have passed since the United Kingdom abolished the juvenile death penalty, the weight of authority against it there, and in the international community, has become well established. (citations omitted)
I cannot believe that our Supreme Court is citing to what the House of Commons said on the issue 75 years ago. That is beyond ridiculous. Our law may derive from English law, but that surely does not mean that English Law should have any relevance now.
One more thing. What exactly is Kennedy talking about here?
"When a juvenile offender commits a heinous crime, the state can exact forfeiture of some of the most basic liberties, but the state cannot extinguish his life and his potential to attain a mature understanding of his own humanity."
What does that mean? Is that a legal concept? At best, it sounds like something a legislator might say when trying to get votes on his side. (Granted, as a law student I should not be criticizing Kennedy like this, but I suspect if I offered this exact sentence as reasoning in a paper, my professor would flunk me.) That part is really interesting especially in light of the first paragraph of the first part of Kennedy's opinion.
Simmons proposed to commit burglary and murder by breaking and entering, tying up a victim, and throwing the victim off a bridge. Simmons assured his friends they could "get away with it" because they were minors.
Sure seems to me that Simmons had a mature understanding of his own [in]humanity.
Kennedy lets loose this howler too:
Over time, from one generation to the next, the Constitution has come to earn the high respect and even, as Madison dared to hope, the veneration of the American people.
Yeah, everyone except Kennedy and 4 other justices on the Court.
And one more thing:
Enough about Kennedy. Justice Scalia says it best:
The Court thus proclaims itself sole arbiter of our Nation's moral standards--and in the course of discharging that awesome responsibility purports to take guidance from the views of foreign courts and legislatures. Because I do not believe that the meaning of our Eighth Amendment, any more than the meaning of other provisions of our Constitution, should be determined by the subjective views of five Members of this Court and like-minded foreigners, I dissent.
And more of Scalia's briliance:
The Court should either profess its willingness to reconsider all these matters in light of the views of foreigners, or else it should cease putting forth foreigners' views as part of the reasoned basis of its decisions. To invoke alien law when it agrees with one's own thinking, and ignore it otherwise, is not reasoned decisionmaking, but sophistry.
The Wall Street Journal has this terrific editorial on this.
Orin Kerr offers some good analysis here.
Even the Harvard guys at Ex Post, who agree with the outcome as I do, see Kennedy's opinion as indefensible. {ed. They are from Columbia, not Harvard)
[Update: A law school classmate e-mailed to tell me that the Court only uses the international cases and treaties when interpreting 8th Amendment. That is incorrect. They have used it in Due Process and Equal Protection cases too]
[Update II: Ex Post are from Columbia. Ex Parte are the Harvard guys. I regret the error.]
Read Kennedy's majority opinion, especially Part IV. (And, especially read Scalia's brilliant-as-usual dissent) I do not care much for the "national consensus" rationale, but I can deal with that. What I really despise is the Court citing international treaties, especially ones that we are not a signatory to. Here's an example of what I mean, from Kennedy's opinion:
Our determination that the death penalty is disproportionate punishment for offenders under 18 finds confirmation in the stark reality that the United States is the only country in the world that continues to give official sanction to the juvenile death penalty. This reality does not become controlling, for the task of interpreting the Eighth Amendment remains our responsibility....
It is proper that we acknowledge the overwhelming weight of international opinion against the juvenile death penalty, resting in large part on the understanding that the instability and emotional imbalance of young people may often be a factor in the crime. See Brief for Human Rights Committee of the Bar of England and Wales et al. as Amici Curiae 10.11. The opinion of the world community, while not controlling our outcome, does provide respected and significant confirmation for our own conclusions.
Not controlling? Yeah, right. At least he admits that the world community provides confirmation for the opinion. There is no hiding that, so he might as well say it. I especially find it troubling that Kennedy cited the U.N. Convention on the Rights of a Child, because the United States has not ratified it, and because of the way the U.N. themselves treat young girls all across the world. Perhaps Kennedy should instead lecture Kofi Annan on that treaty, and not us. Kennedy is a judge, not a legislator. His reasoning and justifications are those of lawmakers, and it is disgraceful. Like I said, I agree with the outcome, but no one voted for Kennedy to make the law.
And get this part. Someone needs to remind Kennedy that we kicked the British out of here a long time ago, and that Parliament does not make our laws.
Though the international covenants prohibiting the juvenile death penalty are of more recent date, it is instructive to note that the United Kingdom abolished the juvenile death penalty before these covenants came into being. The United Kingdom's experience bears particular relevance here in light of the historic ties between our countries and in light of the Eighth Amendment's own origins. The Amendment was modeled on a parallel provision in the English Declaration of Rights of 1689, which provided: "[E]xcessive Bail ought not to be required nor excessive Fines imposed; nor cruel and unusuall Punishments inflicted." As of now, the United Kingdom has abolished the death penalty in its entirety; but, decades before it took this step, it recognized the disproportionate nature of the juvenile death penalty; and it abolished that penalty as a separate matter. In 1930 an official committee recommended that the minimum age for execution be raised to 21. House of Commons Report from the Select Committee on Capital Punishment (1930), 193, p. 44. Parliament then enacted the Children and Young Person's Act of 1933, which prevented execution of those aged 18 at the date of the sentence. And in 1948, Parliament enacted the Criminal Justice Act, prohibiting the execution of any person under 18 at the time of the offense. In the 56 years that have passed since the United Kingdom abolished the juvenile death penalty, the weight of authority against it there, and in the international community, has become well established. (citations omitted)
I cannot believe that our Supreme Court is citing to what the House of Commons said on the issue 75 years ago. That is beyond ridiculous. Our law may derive from English law, but that surely does not mean that English Law should have any relevance now.
One more thing. What exactly is Kennedy talking about here?
"When a juvenile offender commits a heinous crime, the state can exact forfeiture of some of the most basic liberties, but the state cannot extinguish his life and his potential to attain a mature understanding of his own humanity."
What does that mean? Is that a legal concept? At best, it sounds like something a legislator might say when trying to get votes on his side. (Granted, as a law student I should not be criticizing Kennedy like this, but I suspect if I offered this exact sentence as reasoning in a paper, my professor would flunk me.) That part is really interesting especially in light of the first paragraph of the first part of Kennedy's opinion.
Simmons proposed to commit burglary and murder by breaking and entering, tying up a victim, and throwing the victim off a bridge. Simmons assured his friends they could "get away with it" because they were minors.
Sure seems to me that Simmons had a mature understanding of his own [in]humanity.
Kennedy lets loose this howler too:
Over time, from one generation to the next, the Constitution has come to earn the high respect and even, as Madison dared to hope, the veneration of the American people.
Yeah, everyone except Kennedy and 4 other justices on the Court.
And one more thing:
Enough about Kennedy. Justice Scalia says it best:
The Court thus proclaims itself sole arbiter of our Nation's moral standards--and in the course of discharging that awesome responsibility purports to take guidance from the views of foreign courts and legislatures. Because I do not believe that the meaning of our Eighth Amendment, any more than the meaning of other provisions of our Constitution, should be determined by the subjective views of five Members of this Court and like-minded foreigners, I dissent.
And more of Scalia's briliance:
The Court should either profess its willingness to reconsider all these matters in light of the views of foreigners, or else it should cease putting forth foreigners' views as part of the reasoned basis of its decisions. To invoke alien law when it agrees with one's own thinking, and ignore it otherwise, is not reasoned decisionmaking, but sophistry.
The Wall Street Journal has this terrific editorial on this.
Orin Kerr offers some good analysis here.
Even the Harvard guys at Ex Post, who agree with the outcome as I do, see Kennedy's opinion as indefensible. {ed. They are from Columbia, not Harvard)
[Update: A law school classmate e-mailed to tell me that the Court only uses the international cases and treaties when interpreting 8th Amendment. That is incorrect. They have used it in Due Process and Equal Protection cases too]
[Update II: Ex Post are from Columbia. Ex Parte are the Harvard guys. I regret the error.]
A 12-year run is over
After tonight, I can no longer say that I missed every single episode of NYPD Blue.
'NYPD Blue' Signing Off After 12 Seasons
I never watched the show. Not once. Perhpas the prospect of seeing Dennis Franz's ass scared me away.
'NYPD Blue' Signing Off After 12 Seasons
I never watched the show. Not once. Perhpas the prospect of seeing Dennis Franz's ass scared me away.
Hypocrisy of the Highest Order
Read this quote:
[The university] released a statement Tuesday that said the "case is not one of academic freedom, but rather one of inappropriate behavior outside the classroom by a university professional. His attitude was threatening and disrespectful to students."
Ward Churchill? Of course not. Read this.
[The university] released a statement Tuesday that said the "case is not one of academic freedom, but rather one of inappropriate behavior outside the classroom by a university professional. His attitude was threatening and disrespectful to students."
Ward Churchill? Of course not. Read this.
America-bashing only goes so far
Sooner or later, Gerhard Schroeder will be gone. He got himself into office by bashing America, and now the Germans are reaping everything they deserve.
German jobless rate at new record
The figure of 5.216 million people, or 12.6% of the working-age population, is the highest jobless rate in Europe's biggest economy since the 1930s.
Here's my favorite part:
The German government insists its efforts to tackle the stubbornly-high levels of joblessness with a range of labour market reforms are only just getting under way.
The core is the "Hartz-IV" programme introduced in January to shake up welfare benefits and push people back into work - even if some of the jobs are heavily subsidised.
So, basically, the same welfare paid out, only they get to say the jobless rate is lower. This is what Socialism is, and why it has failed everywhere it has been tried.
My feelings can be summed up in a word that all Germans understand: schadenfreude
German jobless rate at new record
The figure of 5.216 million people, or 12.6% of the working-age population, is the highest jobless rate in Europe's biggest economy since the 1930s.
Here's my favorite part:
The German government insists its efforts to tackle the stubbornly-high levels of joblessness with a range of labour market reforms are only just getting under way.
The core is the "Hartz-IV" programme introduced in January to shake up welfare benefits and push people back into work - even if some of the jobs are heavily subsidised.
So, basically, the same welfare paid out, only they get to say the jobless rate is lower. This is what Socialism is, and why it has failed everywhere it has been tried.
My feelings can be summed up in a word that all Germans understand: schadenfreude
Your tax dollars at work
Data Suggest Obesity Is Rampant in NFL
Really? My eyes have been telling me the same thing for years. Have you seen Corey Simon lately? Or Gilbert Brown?
Next thing you know, they'll have a study telling us that hockey players have higher dental bills than the average.
Really? My eyes have been telling me the same thing for years. Have you seen Corey Simon lately? Or Gilbert Brown?
Next thing you know, they'll have a study telling us that hockey players have higher dental bills than the average.
Star Wars Episode III Fan Trailer
Someone was kind enough to send me this link to a fan-created trailer for Revenge of the Sith. Hurry up and watch it before George Lucas has his legion of stormtroopers, er, lawyers, shut the site down.
The trailer is pretty awesome. I have seen all kinds of spoiler pictures, and some small video clips too. I'd love to know how this guy got these shots from the film. Inside job, perhaps? (Oh, and General Grevious looks like one mean mother-shut your mouth!)
By the way, someone tell that greedy bastard George Lucas that if he hasn't gotten tired of extracting my money from me (along with millions of other suckers), that I have a great idea for him. Release the original trilogy in its original form on DVD. None of those idiotic "Greedo shoots first" re-edits, or changing Darth Vader's dialogue from a pissed-off "Bring my shuttle" to "Alert my Star Destroyer to prepare for my arrival." That should make him another $50 million or so a lot quicker than selling worthless Mon Motha action figures.
The trailer is pretty awesome. I have seen all kinds of spoiler pictures, and some small video clips too. I'd love to know how this guy got these shots from the film. Inside job, perhaps? (Oh, and General Grevious looks like one mean mother-shut your mouth!)
By the way, someone tell that greedy bastard George Lucas that if he hasn't gotten tired of extracting my money from me (along with millions of other suckers), that I have a great idea for him. Release the original trilogy in its original form on DVD. None of those idiotic "Greedo shoots first" re-edits, or changing Darth Vader's dialogue from a pissed-off "Bring my shuttle" to "Alert my Star Destroyer to prepare for my arrival." That should make him another $50 million or so a lot quicker than selling worthless Mon Motha action figures.
Saturday, February 26, 2005
The sad state that is my life...again
It is near Midnight Saturday. I am out at a bar or seeing a movie like a normal human being? Of course not. I am home, watching a homemade documentary I downloaded called Deleted Magic, which is cut into 10 video clips. And, I am reading a BBS bulletin board (via Google) full of posts made, are you ready for this, 1984 and 1985!!
All I can say is that it is better to be a no-life loser in 2005 than it was in 1985.
Oh well. At least I had a better day than Maurice Clarett.
All I can say is that it is better to be a no-life loser in 2005 than it was in 1985.
Oh well. At least I had a better day than Maurice Clarett.
Good reading
Philly Inquirer John Grogan columnist has changed his mind about Terri Schiavo. If you think Schiavo should be left there to starve to death, perhaps this column may give you pause.
These guys are scum but...
...even they deserve fundamental fairness when it comes to the criminal justice system.
New trial for skinheads
OTTAWA (CP) - A group of neo-Nazi skinheads should face renewed prosecution on charges of inciting hatred against Roma refugee claimants, the Supreme Court of Canada ruled Thursday.
The defendants were acquitted in 1999 by a Toronto trial judge who cited legal confusion between the terms Roma and Gypsy - names usually taken as synonymous.
The Supreme Court, in a 9-0 verdict, threw out the acquittals and ordered a new trial.
Justice Louise Charron, writing for the court, said the original judge "misdirected himself" by focusing on narrow technical issues rather than on the evidence as a whole.
So the constable has blundered, therefore the state should get a second bite at the apple. Luckily, for all of us here in this country, we have the Double Jeopardy Clause, which bars this type of outcome. Remember this when you think that Canada is somehow more enlightened than we are.
New trial for skinheads
OTTAWA (CP) - A group of neo-Nazi skinheads should face renewed prosecution on charges of inciting hatred against Roma refugee claimants, the Supreme Court of Canada ruled Thursday.
The defendants were acquitted in 1999 by a Toronto trial judge who cited legal confusion between the terms Roma and Gypsy - names usually taken as synonymous.
The Supreme Court, in a 9-0 verdict, threw out the acquittals and ordered a new trial.
Justice Louise Charron, writing for the court, said the original judge "misdirected himself" by focusing on narrow technical issues rather than on the evidence as a whole.
So the constable has blundered, therefore the state should get a second bite at the apple. Luckily, for all of us here in this country, we have the Double Jeopardy Clause, which bars this type of outcome. Remember this when you think that Canada is somehow more enlightened than we are.
Friday, February 25, 2005
Socialized Medicine Anyone?
Anyone who thinks that the government should control our health care should read this article.
How sweet it is - Girl eats real food for first time in 7 1/2 years after doctors at Stanford solve mystery
The mystery wasn't too hard to solve. Nothing was wrong with her. This poor little girl has had a big part of her childhood stolen.
How sweet it is - Girl eats real food for first time in 7 1/2 years after doctors at Stanford solve mystery
The mystery wasn't too hard to solve. Nothing was wrong with her. This poor little girl has had a big part of her childhood stolen.
Thursday, February 24, 2005
Woe Canada
I had to laugh when I read this headline.
Canada Opts Out of U.S. Defense Shield
TORONTO - Prime Minister Paul Martin said Thursday that Canada would not join the contentious U.S. missile defense program, a decision that will further strain brittle relations between the neighbors but please Canadians who fear it could lead to an international arms race.
That will make the Canuck leftists quite happy. Sadly, they fail to understand that so our enemies, hitting Toronto would be as good as hitting Seattle.
The Bush administration has tried to make a public show of understanding that Martin heads up a minority government that could fall over such a contentious debate. But after the announcement, U.S. Ambassador Paul Cellucci told reporters he was perplexed over Canada's decision, which he said effectively allows Washington to decide what to do if a missile was headed toward Canada.
"We simply cannot understand why Canada would in effect give up its sovereignty — its seat at the table — to decide what to do about a missile that might be coming towards Canada," said the outgoing ambassador, who had vigorously urged Canada to sign on the plan.
Canada has already given up its sovereignty to us. They have since they let theri military turn into a pathetic wasteland. Besides, they know exactly what we would do if they were attacked. We would defend them as if it were ourselves.
Here''s the best part:
Martin, ending nearly two years of debate over whether Canada should participate in the development or operation of the multibillion-dollar program, insisted his decision had not relinquished Canada's sovereignty over its airspace and that Ottawa would expect to be consulted what to do about any missile passing over Canada.
"We are certainly intending to defend our sovereignty and our air space and if anything develops in our air space, we expect, as a sovereign state, to be notified and have influence on any decisions," he said. "Canada's a sovereign nation and we would expect and insist on being consulted on any intrusion into our air space."
Canada is free-riding off of us, pure and simple. Thansk to their ridiculous socialism, they can't afford it. But why say that when you can pander to the gutless, government-dependent Canadian voters?
Canada Opts Out of U.S. Defense Shield
TORONTO - Prime Minister Paul Martin said Thursday that Canada would not join the contentious U.S. missile defense program, a decision that will further strain brittle relations between the neighbors but please Canadians who fear it could lead to an international arms race.
That will make the Canuck leftists quite happy. Sadly, they fail to understand that so our enemies, hitting Toronto would be as good as hitting Seattle.
The Bush administration has tried to make a public show of understanding that Martin heads up a minority government that could fall over such a contentious debate. But after the announcement, U.S. Ambassador Paul Cellucci told reporters he was perplexed over Canada's decision, which he said effectively allows Washington to decide what to do if a missile was headed toward Canada.
"We simply cannot understand why Canada would in effect give up its sovereignty — its seat at the table — to decide what to do about a missile that might be coming towards Canada," said the outgoing ambassador, who had vigorously urged Canada to sign on the plan.
Canada has already given up its sovereignty to us. They have since they let theri military turn into a pathetic wasteland. Besides, they know exactly what we would do if they were attacked. We would defend them as if it were ourselves.
Here''s the best part:
Martin, ending nearly two years of debate over whether Canada should participate in the development or operation of the multibillion-dollar program, insisted his decision had not relinquished Canada's sovereignty over its airspace and that Ottawa would expect to be consulted what to do about any missile passing over Canada.
"We are certainly intending to defend our sovereignty and our air space and if anything develops in our air space, we expect, as a sovereign state, to be notified and have influence on any decisions," he said. "Canada's a sovereign nation and we would expect and insist on being consulted on any intrusion into our air space."
Canada is free-riding off of us, pure and simple. Thansk to their ridiculous socialism, they can't afford it. But why say that when you can pander to the gutless, government-dependent Canadian voters?
Picture of the day
Wednesday, February 23, 2005
More, please
Everyone who reads this page knows I rip the New York Times often. If the New York Times ran columns like this with the same vigor they vilify Bush and pound Abu Gharib over our heads, I would never say a word about them. The Times is a powerful paper, and this Nicholas Kristof column is the proper way to use that power.
Read it.
Read it.
This headline is four words too long
Los Angeles seeks to be declared disaster area after storms kill nine
If they had stopped at, "Los Angeles seeks to be declared disaster area" I would have been all for it.
If they had stopped at, "Los Angeles seeks to be declared disaster area" I would have been all for it.
Misleading headline of the day
Fla. Right-To-Die Case Goes Back to Court
This isn't about the right to die. It's about preventing her husband, who has moved on with his life, from having the state sanction her death. A huge difference.
This isn't about the right to die. It's about preventing her husband, who has moved on with his life, from having the state sanction her death. A huge difference.
Headline I just couldn't ignore
Tuesday, February 22, 2005
This is outrageous
Imagine the outcry if a judge ordered a dog not to be fed and placed in a room to waste away until the dog died...
Imagine the outcry if a terrorist killed 30 Americans and was ordered to sit in a cell at Guantanamo Bay until he starved to death...
Can't you easily imagine it? Then why isn't there any serious outcry about Terri Schiavo?
Court clears the way for husband to remove tube
A Florida appeals court has cleared the way for the husband of Terri Schiavo to remove the feeding tube that has been keeping her alive for 15 years.
The attorney representing Terri's husband had said Michael Schiavo will act as soon as legally permissible to have doctors remove the tube.
Michael Schiavo said his wife wouldn't want to be kept alive artificially. But her parents believe she could improve with proper therapy, and they've fought to keep her alive.
There is some serious doubt here. If it were me, I would not want to be kept alive. But it isn't me sitting in that hospital room. In the absence of her clearly expressed wishes, I cannot believe anyone could let this woman waste away like this in good conscience.
Imagine the outcry if a terrorist killed 30 Americans and was ordered to sit in a cell at Guantanamo Bay until he starved to death...
Can't you easily imagine it? Then why isn't there any serious outcry about Terri Schiavo?
Court clears the way for husband to remove tube
A Florida appeals court has cleared the way for the husband of Terri Schiavo to remove the feeding tube that has been keeping her alive for 15 years.
The attorney representing Terri's husband had said Michael Schiavo will act as soon as legally permissible to have doctors remove the tube.
Michael Schiavo said his wife wouldn't want to be kept alive artificially. But her parents believe she could improve with proper therapy, and they've fought to keep her alive.
There is some serious doubt here. If it were me, I would not want to be kept alive. But it isn't me sitting in that hospital room. In the absence of her clearly expressed wishes, I cannot believe anyone could let this woman waste away like this in good conscience.
The U.N. has a blog
I'll be sure not to read the U.N.'s new blog at least three times a day. But I will mention this post:
UN: 1 in 12 Children Worldwide Involved in Child Labor
I wonder if that 1 in 12 number includes all the children that U.N. personnel are raping in the Congo and other places.
UN: 1 in 12 Children Worldwide Involved in Child Labor
I wonder if that 1 in 12 number includes all the children that U.N. personnel are raping in the Congo and other places.
Democracy and Freedom for Me, But Not For Thee
The tomfoolery from the Associated Press never stops:
Poll Shows Doubts Over Bush Democracy Push
WASHINGTON - President Bush is calling on European leaders to support his campaign to spread democracy abroad at a time people in many of those countries have doubts whether that should be the U.S. role in the world, Associated Press polling found.
A majority of people in Britain, France, Germany, Italy and Spain said they thought it should not be the U.S. role to spread democracy, according to AP-Ipsos polls. A majority of those living in Canada, Mexico and South Korea also disagreed with that role.
The first thing that comes to mind is, "Who gives a damn what they think?" And then I say, "If not the U.S., then who?" And then I say, "They've got a lot of balls."
Just take a look at the countries listed. Democracy would not exist in any of them if it weren't for us. We saved France twice. We rebuilt Germany. South Korea would be no different from Communist North Korea if it weren't for people like my grandfather. Canada free rides off of our military. Mexico would collapse if we closed the borders. Spain is filled with gutless worms who hid under their blankets after one bomb. Like it or not, they are in the position to criticize us because we put them in it. Great Britian and Italy are a real friends, with great leaders, so I don't get their attitude at all.
South Koreans really make me laugh. Want to get them angry? Tell them Americans are going to stay on the bases we have there. Want to get them angrier? Tell them we are leaving.
Resistance to Bush's plans to promote democracy abroad was strongest in France, with 84 percent saying the United States should not play that role, according to the polling conducted for the Associated Press by Ipsos, an international polling firm.
What does France think, that they should play the leadership role? Why doesn't someone ask them how that Ivory Coast thing is working out?
I suggest you read this interview with the last person from the Warsaw Ghetto that is still alive. He gave it last year. This says it all:
Interviewer: But there are people who say it's not our business.
Edelman: And whose business is it? Every war with fascism is our business. In 1939 there were also many people who said that the war in Poland was not their war, and what happened? Great nations fell because politicians listened to those who were saying that it's not worth dying for Gdansk [Danzig]. If only we'd intervened militarily after Hitler re-entered Rhineland we probably would not have had the war and the Holocaust.
Interviewer: Many people do understand that, but they don't understand why the Americans have to go to the other side of the world and fight over Iraq now.
Edelman: And why did they go to Europe then? Who defeated Hitler and saved Europe from fascism? The French? No, the Americans did. We thanked them then because they saved us. Today we criticise them because they're saving somebody else.
Amen.
Poll Shows Doubts Over Bush Democracy Push
WASHINGTON - President Bush is calling on European leaders to support his campaign to spread democracy abroad at a time people in many of those countries have doubts whether that should be the U.S. role in the world, Associated Press polling found.
A majority of people in Britain, France, Germany, Italy and Spain said they thought it should not be the U.S. role to spread democracy, according to AP-Ipsos polls. A majority of those living in Canada, Mexico and South Korea also disagreed with that role.
The first thing that comes to mind is, "Who gives a damn what they think?" And then I say, "If not the U.S., then who?" And then I say, "They've got a lot of balls."
Just take a look at the countries listed. Democracy would not exist in any of them if it weren't for us. We saved France twice. We rebuilt Germany. South Korea would be no different from Communist North Korea if it weren't for people like my grandfather. Canada free rides off of our military. Mexico would collapse if we closed the borders. Spain is filled with gutless worms who hid under their blankets after one bomb. Like it or not, they are in the position to criticize us because we put them in it. Great Britian and Italy are a real friends, with great leaders, so I don't get their attitude at all.
South Koreans really make me laugh. Want to get them angry? Tell them Americans are going to stay on the bases we have there. Want to get them angrier? Tell them we are leaving.
Resistance to Bush's plans to promote democracy abroad was strongest in France, with 84 percent saying the United States should not play that role, according to the polling conducted for the Associated Press by Ipsos, an international polling firm.
What does France think, that they should play the leadership role? Why doesn't someone ask them how that Ivory Coast thing is working out?
I suggest you read this interview with the last person from the Warsaw Ghetto that is still alive. He gave it last year. This says it all:
Interviewer: But there are people who say it's not our business.
Edelman: And whose business is it? Every war with fascism is our business. In 1939 there were also many people who said that the war in Poland was not their war, and what happened? Great nations fell because politicians listened to those who were saying that it's not worth dying for Gdansk [Danzig]. If only we'd intervened militarily after Hitler re-entered Rhineland we probably would not have had the war and the Holocaust.
Interviewer: Many people do understand that, but they don't understand why the Americans have to go to the other side of the world and fight over Iraq now.
Edelman: And why did they go to Europe then? Who defeated Hitler and saved Europe from fascism? The French? No, the Americans did. We thanked them then because they saved us. Today we criticise them because they're saving somebody else.
Amen.
Monday, February 21, 2005
Typical of my life
It's 11:00 MST and at 10:00 am tomorrow at law school I have to argue a motion in limine to exclude character evidence. What have been doing for the last 2 hours or so? Reading cases and preparing? Of course not. Instead, I have been reading this thread where dopes like me speculate on the origins of The Death Star, and how Darth Vader conducted the London Symphony Orchestra when they did The Imperial March.
Also, I keep a clock on my desktop that counts down until Star Wars III: Revenge of the Sith opens. Currently it says: 85 days, 23 hours, 52 minutes and 12 seconds. (Get your own here)
That, my friends, is my life in a nutshell. Stephanie thinks I'm nuts. She's right.
Also, I keep a clock on my desktop that counts down until Star Wars III: Revenge of the Sith opens. Currently it says: 85 days, 23 hours, 52 minutes and 12 seconds. (Get your own here)
That, my friends, is my life in a nutshell. Stephanie thinks I'm nuts. She's right.
Tomorrow is the day
Tomorrow the Supreme Court will hear the most important civil rights case of the year, Kelo v. New London. If you are as interested in property rights as I am, you should watch the outcome of this case very carefully. One day it might be your home being given to a developer for less than a fair price.
Read my previous diatribe about this case here.
Here's some more information about the issue.
Read my previous diatribe about this case here.
Here's some more information about the issue.
Time to play some serious hardball
League hopes for deal by May
The Sports Network of Canada (TSN) is reporting the NHL board of governors will meet March 1 in New York City to discuss its next step in trying to resolve a labor dispute that has canceled the entire 2004-05 season.
The NHL Players' Association also plans to meet in the next month but president Trevor Linden admits he isn't sure what will happen there.
"It's uncharted territories, where we go from here I don't think anyone is quite sure," Linden said.
The league and commissioner Gary Bettman would prefer a deal be in place by May. It would not only allow sufficient time to save the NHL entry draft, held every year in late June, but also give teams and the league plenty of opportunity to reach out to fans and corporate sponsors and market new rules meant to open up the game.
The players' timeline could be a little different. They aren't due a paycheck until next October.
"I'm not sure that I would sense that sense of urgency," NHLPA senior director Ted Saskin told TSN when asked about the league's wish to settle before the draft.
How about this? The NHL should bust up the players union. Declare an impasse, and open up training camps to anyone who wants to show and play under a salary cap. Do exactly what the NFL did in 1987 and what the MLB owners chickened out of doing in 1995. Use replacement players, strike-breakers, whoever. I am beyond aggravated with both sides, but I am realistic. The money just isn't there to pay the NHL players like they're in the NBA or NFL. The sooners those cementheads understand that, the better.
The Sports Network of Canada (TSN) is reporting the NHL board of governors will meet March 1 in New York City to discuss its next step in trying to resolve a labor dispute that has canceled the entire 2004-05 season.
The NHL Players' Association also plans to meet in the next month but president Trevor Linden admits he isn't sure what will happen there.
"It's uncharted territories, where we go from here I don't think anyone is quite sure," Linden said.
The league and commissioner Gary Bettman would prefer a deal be in place by May. It would not only allow sufficient time to save the NHL entry draft, held every year in late June, but also give teams and the league plenty of opportunity to reach out to fans and corporate sponsors and market new rules meant to open up the game.
The players' timeline could be a little different. They aren't due a paycheck until next October.
"I'm not sure that I would sense that sense of urgency," NHLPA senior director Ted Saskin told TSN when asked about the league's wish to settle before the draft.
How about this? The NHL should bust up the players union. Declare an impasse, and open up training camps to anyone who wants to show and play under a salary cap. Do exactly what the NFL did in 1987 and what the MLB owners chickened out of doing in 1995. Use replacement players, strike-breakers, whoever. I am beyond aggravated with both sides, but I am realistic. The money just isn't there to pay the NHL players like they're in the NBA or NFL. The sooners those cementheads understand that, the better.
The MSM is under siege..and can't stand it
The executive editor of the New York "Once Upon A" Times is whining about the loss of prestige for his paper and the media in general. I'm going to cry.
On the state of print journalism in America today, Bill Keller, executive editor of The New York Times, said, “This is not a time when editors swear off alcohol.”
Keller was the keynote speaker at Friday night’s Blue Pencil Dinner, an annual Spectator fund-raiser held in Low Rotunda. The event served both as a chance for Spectator staffers to learn about journalism from insiders and for alumni to reconnect with the paper.
Keller’s speech focused on the struggle of print journalism to maintain its relevance in the face of constant cable news updates, increased blogging, and failures in credibility.
He noted that, according to a recent opinion poll, the public’s trust in journalists is at its lowest point in decades. He attributed this in part to the increasingly polarized nature of the American public, who look to the press for support of their viewpoints.
“At the moment,” he said, “the major press is under attack from ideologues on the right and left.”
Keller also sees “blogging,” or online writing that blurs news and commentary, as a mixed blessing. While he celebrated the blogger’s ability to uncover breaking news, he noted that a blog’s inherent bias might be detrimental to the reader. “A blog is still a view of the world through a pinhole,” he said, noting that it can sometimes fall as low as being a “one man circle jerk.”
“There is a pressure to feel well informed without ever confronting an opinion that confronts your prejudices,” he said of blog readers.
Ah, the hilarity!! The executive editor of the NY Times complaining about bias. Stop me before I pee myself. Really, what did he expect? People are tired of being played like idiots. I trust Instapundit, Powerline, Little Green Footballs, and The Viking Pundit, amongst others, to give it to me straight. I know where they are coming from, because they tell me every single day. The New York Times and their cohorts in the MSM think this is still 1968 and they have a monopoly over what we hear and don't hear, and can't stand that their viewpoint isn't the only one out there.
Blogs of all sizes are here to stay. It is time for the MSM to get used to it.
On the state of print journalism in America today, Bill Keller, executive editor of The New York Times, said, “This is not a time when editors swear off alcohol.”
Keller was the keynote speaker at Friday night’s Blue Pencil Dinner, an annual Spectator fund-raiser held in Low Rotunda. The event served both as a chance for Spectator staffers to learn about journalism from insiders and for alumni to reconnect with the paper.
Keller’s speech focused on the struggle of print journalism to maintain its relevance in the face of constant cable news updates, increased blogging, and failures in credibility.
He noted that, according to a recent opinion poll, the public’s trust in journalists is at its lowest point in decades. He attributed this in part to the increasingly polarized nature of the American public, who look to the press for support of their viewpoints.
“At the moment,” he said, “the major press is under attack from ideologues on the right and left.”
Keller also sees “blogging,” or online writing that blurs news and commentary, as a mixed blessing. While he celebrated the blogger’s ability to uncover breaking news, he noted that a blog’s inherent bias might be detrimental to the reader. “A blog is still a view of the world through a pinhole,” he said, noting that it can sometimes fall as low as being a “one man circle jerk.”
“There is a pressure to feel well informed without ever confronting an opinion that confronts your prejudices,” he said of blog readers.
Ah, the hilarity!! The executive editor of the NY Times complaining about bias. Stop me before I pee myself. Really, what did he expect? People are tired of being played like idiots. I trust Instapundit, Powerline, Little Green Footballs, and The Viking Pundit, amongst others, to give it to me straight. I know where they are coming from, because they tell me every single day. The New York Times and their cohorts in the MSM think this is still 1968 and they have a monopoly over what we hear and don't hear, and can't stand that their viewpoint isn't the only one out there.
Blogs of all sizes are here to stay. It is time for the MSM to get used to it.
Saturday, February 19, 2005
Help if you can
I am doing some legal research on spyware. What I need are some suggested reading on how spyware operates, i.e. techincal journal articles or things like that. I really need some explanations in layman's terms rather than real techincial stuff. Any links or suggestions would be greated appreciated. Please leave your ideas in the comments or send me an e-mail. Thanks!!
Saturday laughter
I just got this e-mail from a fellow law student. It made my day.
These are from a book called Disorder in the American Courts, and are
things people actually said in court, word for word, taken down and now
published by court reporters who had the torment of staying calm while
these exchanges were actually taking place.***
Q: Are you sexually active?
A: No, I just lie there.
_________________________________*
**Q: What gear were you in at the moment of the impact?**
**A: Gucci sweats and Reeboks.***
**__________________________________***
**Q: This myasthenia gravis, does it affect your memory at all?***
**A: Yes.**
**Q: And in what ways does it affect your memory?**
**A: I forget.**
**Q: You forget? Can you give us an example of something that you've
forgotten?**
**_____________________________________***
**Q: What was the first thing your husband said to you when he woke up
that morning?***
**A: He said, "Where am I. Doris?"**
**Q: And why did that upset you?**
**A: My name is Susan.**
**______________________________________***
**Q: Now doctor, isn't it true that when a person dies in his sleep, he
doesn't know about it until the next morning?***
**A: Did you actually pass the bar exam?**
**___________________________________***
**Q: So the date of conception (of the baby) was August 8th?***
**A: Yes.**
**Q: And what were you doing at that time?**
**______________________________________***
**Q: How was your first marriage terminated?***
**A: By death.**
**Q: And by whose death was it terminated?**
**______________________________________***
**Q: Can you describe the individual?***
**A: He was about medium height and had a beard.**
**Q: Was this a male or a female?**
**______________________________________***
**Q: Do you recall the time that you examined the body?***
**A: The autopsy started around 8:30 p.m.**
**Q: And Mr. Dennington was dead at the time?**
**A: No, he was sitting on the table wondering why I was doing an autopsy.**
**______________________________________***
**AND TO SAVE THE BEST FOR LAST!!!!!!**
**Q: Doctor, before you performed the autopsy, did you check for a pulse?***
** A: No.**
**Q: Did you check for blood pressure?**
**A: No.**
**Q: Did you check for breathing?**
**A: No.**
**Q: So, then it is possible that the patient was alive when you began
the autopsy?**
**A: No.**
**Q: How can you be so sure, Doctor?**
**A: Because his brain was sitting on my desk in a jar.**
**Q: But could the patient have still been alive, nevertheless?**
**A: Yes, it is possible that he could have been alive and practicing
law somewhere***
These are from a book called Disorder in the American Courts, and are
things people actually said in court, word for word, taken down and now
published by court reporters who had the torment of staying calm while
these exchanges were actually taking place.***
Q: Are you sexually active?
A: No, I just lie there.
_________________________________*
**Q: What gear were you in at the moment of the impact?**
**A: Gucci sweats and Reeboks.***
**__________________________________***
**Q: This myasthenia gravis, does it affect your memory at all?***
**A: Yes.**
**Q: And in what ways does it affect your memory?**
**A: I forget.**
**Q: You forget? Can you give us an example of something that you've
forgotten?**
**_____________________________________***
**Q: What was the first thing your husband said to you when he woke up
that morning?***
**A: He said, "Where am I. Doris?"**
**Q: And why did that upset you?**
**A: My name is Susan.**
**______________________________________***
**Q: Now doctor, isn't it true that when a person dies in his sleep, he
doesn't know about it until the next morning?***
**A: Did you actually pass the bar exam?**
**___________________________________***
**Q: So the date of conception (of the baby) was August 8th?***
**A: Yes.**
**Q: And what were you doing at that time?**
**______________________________________***
**Q: How was your first marriage terminated?***
**A: By death.**
**Q: And by whose death was it terminated?**
**______________________________________***
**Q: Can you describe the individual?***
**A: He was about medium height and had a beard.**
**Q: Was this a male or a female?**
**______________________________________***
**Q: Do you recall the time that you examined the body?***
**A: The autopsy started around 8:30 p.m.**
**Q: And Mr. Dennington was dead at the time?**
**A: No, he was sitting on the table wondering why I was doing an autopsy.**
**______________________________________***
**AND TO SAVE THE BEST FOR LAST!!!!!!**
**Q: Doctor, before you performed the autopsy, did you check for a pulse?***
** A: No.**
**Q: Did you check for blood pressure?**
**A: No.**
**Q: Did you check for breathing?**
**A: No.**
**Q: So, then it is possible that the patient was alive when you began
the autopsy?**
**A: No.**
**Q: How can you be so sure, Doctor?**
**A: Because his brain was sitting on my desk in a jar.**
**Q: But could the patient have still been alive, nevertheless?**
**A: Yes, it is possible that he could have been alive and practicing
law somewhere***
A gander at the headlines
Let's see what is going on today, before I have to sit down and finish a 12-page trial brief for my Advocacy class.
Bush Says He Harbors No Bitterness Toward Chirac
He is much too forgiving. I'll never forgive that HoJo soda jerk for any of the crap he has pulled.
N.Y. Man Arrested Over Instant-Message Spam
Spammers and those scum who are responsible for all the spyware and viruses should get life without parole.
Sen. Clinton Says Iraq Insurgents Failing
BAGHDAD, Iraq - Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton said Saturday a string of attacks killing more than 50 Iraqis in two days were failed attempts to sow sectarian strife and destabilize the country.
I would vote for a llama before I voted for her, but what amazes me is that Democrats refuse to learn from her political brilliance. I may not like her or what she stands for, but I repect her saavy. One arguing point to tell your liberal friends: Just say to them, "Notice that Democrats feel the need to embrace the Republican platform to get their power back, and no Republican feels the need to embrace any of the Democrat agenda?"
Bush, Clinton Tour Tsunami-Ravaged Areas
BAN NAM KHEM, Thailand - Former President Bill Clinton's voice trembled with emotion as he and George H.W. Bush put aside their once-bitter political rivalry Saturday in the intense heat of a Thai fishing village where children gave the American politicians drawings of giant waves sweeping away their relatives.
Wonder if Bill bit his lip too. One other thing. Bush Sr. and Clinton have been on good terms for a long time now, so I don't understand how they "put aside" their once-bitter political rivalry. Just like Hillary, you gotta admire Bill's political brilliance, even though he has been out of office for 4 years now, he's still the consummate politician.
Women Sue Over Gorilla's Breast 'Fetish'
WOODSIDE, Calif. - Two fired caretakers for Koko, the world-famous sign-language-speaking gorilla, have sued their former bosses, claiming they were pressured to expose their breasts as a way of bonding with the 300-pound simian.
Nancy Alperin and Kendra Keller, both of San Francisco, claim they were subjected to sexual discrimination and then wrongfully terminated after reporting health and safety violations at Koko's home in Woodside, an upscale town in the south San Francisco Bay area...
They were threatened that if they "did not indulge Koko's nipple fetish, their employment with the Gorilla Foundation would suffer," the lawsuit alleged.
The lawsuit claims that on one occasion Patterson said, "'Koko, you see my nipples all the time. You are probably bored with my nipples. You need to see new nipples.'"
I don't even know where to begin with this one. The jokes write themselves.
Chalabi calls for quick Saddam trial in push to lead Iraq
Ahmad Chalabi, the former Pentagon ally who had a falling out with his U.S. backers, pressed ahead Thursday with his campaign to be Iraq's next leader by promising to bring the country's former dictator to speedy justice.
"I want to get the trial of Saddam Hussein going," Chalabi said in an interview. "This is a unifying thing."
Oh, I can't wait until that trial starts. Every accusation Saddam and his attorneys level at Bush will be rushed to print and CNN will report them all breathlessly. Yet, they won't say much about the people Saddam shredded, gassed, maimed, and tortured.
Bush Says He Harbors No Bitterness Toward Chirac
He is much too forgiving. I'll never forgive that HoJo soda jerk for any of the crap he has pulled.
N.Y. Man Arrested Over Instant-Message Spam
Spammers and those scum who are responsible for all the spyware and viruses should get life without parole.
Sen. Clinton Says Iraq Insurgents Failing
BAGHDAD, Iraq - Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton said Saturday a string of attacks killing more than 50 Iraqis in two days were failed attempts to sow sectarian strife and destabilize the country.
I would vote for a llama before I voted for her, but what amazes me is that Democrats refuse to learn from her political brilliance. I may not like her or what she stands for, but I repect her saavy. One arguing point to tell your liberal friends: Just say to them, "Notice that Democrats feel the need to embrace the Republican platform to get their power back, and no Republican feels the need to embrace any of the Democrat agenda?"
Bush, Clinton Tour Tsunami-Ravaged Areas
BAN NAM KHEM, Thailand - Former President Bill Clinton's voice trembled with emotion as he and George H.W. Bush put aside their once-bitter political rivalry Saturday in the intense heat of a Thai fishing village where children gave the American politicians drawings of giant waves sweeping away their relatives.
Wonder if Bill bit his lip too. One other thing. Bush Sr. and Clinton have been on good terms for a long time now, so I don't understand how they "put aside" their once-bitter political rivalry. Just like Hillary, you gotta admire Bill's political brilliance, even though he has been out of office for 4 years now, he's still the consummate politician.
Women Sue Over Gorilla's Breast 'Fetish'
WOODSIDE, Calif. - Two fired caretakers for Koko, the world-famous sign-language-speaking gorilla, have sued their former bosses, claiming they were pressured to expose their breasts as a way of bonding with the 300-pound simian.
Nancy Alperin and Kendra Keller, both of San Francisco, claim they were subjected to sexual discrimination and then wrongfully terminated after reporting health and safety violations at Koko's home in Woodside, an upscale town in the south San Francisco Bay area...
They were threatened that if they "did not indulge Koko's nipple fetish, their employment with the Gorilla Foundation would suffer," the lawsuit alleged.
The lawsuit claims that on one occasion Patterson said, "'Koko, you see my nipples all the time. You are probably bored with my nipples. You need to see new nipples.'"
I don't even know where to begin with this one. The jokes write themselves.
Chalabi calls for quick Saddam trial in push to lead Iraq
Ahmad Chalabi, the former Pentagon ally who had a falling out with his U.S. backers, pressed ahead Thursday with his campaign to be Iraq's next leader by promising to bring the country's former dictator to speedy justice.
"I want to get the trial of Saddam Hussein going," Chalabi said in an interview. "This is a unifying thing."
Oh, I can't wait until that trial starts. Every accusation Saddam and his attorneys level at Bush will be rushed to print and CNN will report them all breathlessly. Yet, they won't say much about the people Saddam shredded, gassed, maimed, and tortured.
Friday, February 18, 2005
Game on?
Report: NHL, NHLPA agree to CBA deal
The Hockey News reported on its website Friday that the labor meeting between the NHL and the Players Association on Saturday will result in a deal for a new collective bargaining agreement that features a $45 million salary cap.
In an official statement Friday, the union confirmed it will meet with the league on Saturday in an attempt to resolve the current labor dispute and save the 2004-05 season, which was canceled by Bettman on Wednesday.
I hope this is true. More on this later.
The Hockey News reported on its website Friday that the labor meeting between the NHL and the Players Association on Saturday will result in a deal for a new collective bargaining agreement that features a $45 million salary cap.
In an official statement Friday, the union confirmed it will meet with the league on Saturday in an attempt to resolve the current labor dispute and save the 2004-05 season, which was canceled by Bettman on Wednesday.
I hope this is true. More on this later.
If I had my law degree, I'd defend this guy
I don't know whether to call this guy a nut or a rugged individualist going after the money in the true American spirit.
Texan arrested; said he was after bin Laden bounty
SANSOM PARK — A Texas man who told authorities he was headed to Syria to try to collect the $25 million bounty on Osama bin Laden was rarely home and mostly kept to himself, neighbors said.
But a few weeks ago, Matt Mihsen walked through the yard of his tiny, white-clapboard A-frame house carrying a shotgun over his shoulder, wearing a green Army jacket and looking disheveled, a neighbor said today...
Mihsen, 47, remained in federal custody in Detroit today, three days after his arrest at the Detroit Metropolitan Airport. He told agents that he was going to Syria in hopes of claiming the reward, offered by the U.S. government, for information leading to bin Laden's arrest and conviction, according to a federal criminal complaint.
Mihsen, a naturalized U.S. citizen who was born in Syria, said he was a registered private investigator and wanted to conduct an independent probe into the illegal sale of uranium by extremists, authorities said.
He had flown Tuesday on Northwest Airlines from Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport en route to the Netherlands and Syria, via Detroit, authorities said.
He was arrested on charges of making false statements to federal investigators, trying to smuggle bulk cash out of the United States and attempting to export money and goods to Syria without a permit or authorization. The third charge, the most serious, carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
According to the Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Mihsen denied carrying a large amount of cash before agents found he had nearly $14,000. They found a stun gun, 40 rounds of ammunition, pepper spray, a bulletproof vest and three Geiger counters in his luggage, the affidavit said.
Mihsen told agents he planned to use the items as bait to lure possible uranium smugglers, authorities said.
At least he was trying to get out of the country with this stuff, and not trying to get in with it. I would not be surprised in the last if there were quite a few people who returned to the homeland to try and find bin Laden and collect this bounty, and we don't know about it.
Texan arrested; said he was after bin Laden bounty
SANSOM PARK — A Texas man who told authorities he was headed to Syria to try to collect the $25 million bounty on Osama bin Laden was rarely home and mostly kept to himself, neighbors said.
But a few weeks ago, Matt Mihsen walked through the yard of his tiny, white-clapboard A-frame house carrying a shotgun over his shoulder, wearing a green Army jacket and looking disheveled, a neighbor said today...
Mihsen, 47, remained in federal custody in Detroit today, three days after his arrest at the Detroit Metropolitan Airport. He told agents that he was going to Syria in hopes of claiming the reward, offered by the U.S. government, for information leading to bin Laden's arrest and conviction, according to a federal criminal complaint.
Mihsen, a naturalized U.S. citizen who was born in Syria, said he was a registered private investigator and wanted to conduct an independent probe into the illegal sale of uranium by extremists, authorities said.
He had flown Tuesday on Northwest Airlines from Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport en route to the Netherlands and Syria, via Detroit, authorities said.
He was arrested on charges of making false statements to federal investigators, trying to smuggle bulk cash out of the United States and attempting to export money and goods to Syria without a permit or authorization. The third charge, the most serious, carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
According to the Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Mihsen denied carrying a large amount of cash before agents found he had nearly $14,000. They found a stun gun, 40 rounds of ammunition, pepper spray, a bulletproof vest and three Geiger counters in his luggage, the affidavit said.
Mihsen told agents he planned to use the items as bait to lure possible uranium smugglers, authorities said.
At least he was trying to get out of the country with this stuff, and not trying to get in with it. I would not be surprised in the last if there were quite a few people who returned to the homeland to try and find bin Laden and collect this bounty, and we don't know about it.
Non Sequitur of the Day
I am dumbfounded at this article from our friends at Reuters:
Limbaugh to visit Afghanistan with US aid official
WASHINGTON, Feb 17 (Reuters) - Conservative radio talk show host Rush Limbaugh is expected to visit Afghanistan with the top U.S. aid official to spotlight America's aid work there, officials said on Thursday.
Political commentator Mary Matalin, a former White House aide to Vice President Dick Cheney, will also be on the trip. She said she was not being paid to go and would pay her own way to Dubai but she believed the U.S. government would cover the cost of her visit to Afghanistan from there.
The Bush administration has come under sharp criticism for the Education Department's payment of $240,000 to conservative commentator Armstrong Williams to tout President George W. Bush's education plan.
Spokesmen for Limbaugh were not immediately available to comment.
And what exactly does Armstrong Williams have to do with Limbaugh going to Afghanistan? If I wrote this in Journalism 301, I would have flunked. (Unless of course I called Limbaugh a big fat idiot. The leftist professor I had would have given me an A in that case.)
Limbaugh to visit Afghanistan with US aid official
WASHINGTON, Feb 17 (Reuters) - Conservative radio talk show host Rush Limbaugh is expected to visit Afghanistan with the top U.S. aid official to spotlight America's aid work there, officials said on Thursday.
Political commentator Mary Matalin, a former White House aide to Vice President Dick Cheney, will also be on the trip. She said she was not being paid to go and would pay her own way to Dubai but she believed the U.S. government would cover the cost of her visit to Afghanistan from there.
The Bush administration has come under sharp criticism for the Education Department's payment of $240,000 to conservative commentator Armstrong Williams to tout President George W. Bush's education plan.
Spokesmen for Limbaugh were not immediately available to comment.
And what exactly does Armstrong Williams have to do with Limbaugh going to Afghanistan? If I wrote this in Journalism 301, I would have flunked. (Unless of course I called Limbaugh a big fat idiot. The leftist professor I had would have given me an A in that case.)
Laugh of the day
The ol' Brillo-pad head has a beautiful flower named after him.
Kimjongilia Estimated as King of Flowers
Pyongyang, February 2 (KCNA) -- Immortal Kimjongilia is now appreciated by people at home and abroad as a "flower of the sun revered by all people", "valuable flower representing the times", "the best flower in the world", "king of flowers", etc. This flower was awarded a special prize, gold medal, diploma and other top prizes at the 12th International Flower Show held in Czechoslovakia in May 1991, the Nordic Flower Show in Sweden in March 1995, the Jilin, China, Flower Exhibition in August 1997, the China 99 Kunming World Horticultural Expo in May 1999, the Begonia Show held in California of the United States in August 2004, etc. The facts go to clearly prove that Kimjongilia is the most beautiful flower in the world.
Kimjongilia. Ha! Sounds like something a sailor might catch while on shore leave in Bangkok.
Kimjongilia Estimated as King of Flowers
Pyongyang, February 2 (KCNA) -- Immortal Kimjongilia is now appreciated by people at home and abroad as a "flower of the sun revered by all people", "valuable flower representing the times", "the best flower in the world", "king of flowers", etc. This flower was awarded a special prize, gold medal, diploma and other top prizes at the 12th International Flower Show held in Czechoslovakia in May 1991, the Nordic Flower Show in Sweden in March 1995, the Jilin, China, Flower Exhibition in August 1997, the China 99 Kunming World Horticultural Expo in May 1999, the Begonia Show held in California of the United States in August 2004, etc. The facts go to clearly prove that Kimjongilia is the most beautiful flower in the world.
Kimjongilia. Ha! Sounds like something a sailor might catch while on shore leave in Bangkok.
Mr. Chief Justice and may it please the court...
...please remember the lessons of Justices Field, Hughes, and Douglas and retire with your dignity.
Rehnquist to Miss High Court's Opening
WASHINGTON - Ailing Chief Justice William H. Rehnquist will be absent from the bench when the Supreme Court returns for the second half of its term next week, the court announced Friday.
The 80-year-old Rehnquist, battling thyroid cancer, plans to skip the two-week cycle of oral arguments that starts Tuesday, court spokeswoman Kathy Arberg said. He will continue reading transcripts of the arguments and voting on decisions, she said.
The Chief Justice has had a distinguished career and has served us all honorably for decades. I also understand that retirement is not a very attractive option to him. But, for his dignity and the integrity of the court, he needs to step down.
When Supreme Court Justice Field was old and infirm, another justice (I forget who) went to see him and tell him it was time to retire. He reminded Field that 30 years before, Field had to do the same thing to Justice Grier, who was also old and of little use to the Court. Field replied, "Yes, and a dirtier days work I've never done."
And, the last days of Justice William O. Douglas, when he tried to participate in cases even though he was retired, will always be sad stain on his career. (Mayube not as much as his 4 wives though).
I am sure no one wants to do the dirty deed, and since Rehnquist sadly lost his wife a few years ago, there is probably no one who could tell him it is time to go. I pray that he accepts the inevitable and exits with his dignity intact.
Rehnquist to Miss High Court's Opening
WASHINGTON - Ailing Chief Justice William H. Rehnquist will be absent from the bench when the Supreme Court returns for the second half of its term next week, the court announced Friday.
The 80-year-old Rehnquist, battling thyroid cancer, plans to skip the two-week cycle of oral arguments that starts Tuesday, court spokeswoman Kathy Arberg said. He will continue reading transcripts of the arguments and voting on decisions, she said.
The Chief Justice has had a distinguished career and has served us all honorably for decades. I also understand that retirement is not a very attractive option to him. But, for his dignity and the integrity of the court, he needs to step down.
When Supreme Court Justice Field was old and infirm, another justice (I forget who) went to see him and tell him it was time to retire. He reminded Field that 30 years before, Field had to do the same thing to Justice Grier, who was also old and of little use to the Court. Field replied, "Yes, and a dirtier days work I've never done."
And, the last days of Justice William O. Douglas, when he tried to participate in cases even though he was retired, will always be sad stain on his career. (Mayube not as much as his 4 wives though).
I am sure no one wants to do the dirty deed, and since Rehnquist sadly lost his wife a few years ago, there is probably no one who could tell him it is time to go. I pray that he accepts the inevitable and exits with his dignity intact.
That nuanced Dean
I remember that the day after Saddam Hussein was captured, Howard Dean gave some foreign policy speech in Los Angeles that was called "nuanced" by the New York Times (before they transferred that word to John Kerry's foreign policy) but it was nothing but a bunch of crap. Yesterday, Howard Dean debated Richard Perle, which is like a 19-year old Mike Tyson fighting me. Dean offered yet another example of his brilliance:
"Defense is a lot broader than swaggering around saying you're going to kick Saddam's butt," Dean said Thursday, drawing cheers from the crowd in this city that overwhelmingly voted Democratic last November.
What genius!! What nuance!! Someone needs to remind Dean that he tried this red meat approach before, and it went over like a lead balloon. If Dean keeps this up, Republicans will be in the majority for the next 20 years, which isn't good for anyone, because we need 2 strong parties. The Dems aren't holding up their end, and Dean's rhetoric might get him appluase in psych-liberal Oregon, but the people where the Democrats need to make some inroads aren't too impressed.
[Update: Chris just e-mailed me this video from the debate. Watch how Perle handles the shoe thrower.]
"Defense is a lot broader than swaggering around saying you're going to kick Saddam's butt," Dean said Thursday, drawing cheers from the crowd in this city that overwhelmingly voted Democratic last November.
What genius!! What nuance!! Someone needs to remind Dean that he tried this red meat approach before, and it went over like a lead balloon. If Dean keeps this up, Republicans will be in the majority for the next 20 years, which isn't good for anyone, because we need 2 strong parties. The Dems aren't holding up their end, and Dean's rhetoric might get him appluase in psych-liberal Oregon, but the people where the Democrats need to make some inroads aren't too impressed.
[Update: Chris just e-mailed me this video from the debate. Watch how Perle handles the shoe thrower.]
The story inside the story
I read this and said to myself...hmmm:
Jury Finds Boston Herald Libeled Judge
BOSTON - A jury Friday ordered the Boston Herald to pay $2.1 million for libeling a Superior Court judge, saying it misquoted him as telling lawyers that a 14-year-old rape victim should "get over it."
In a case closely watched by the media and legal communities, a jury deliberated for more than 20 hours over five days before finding that the newspaper and reporter David Wedge libeled Superior Court Judge Ernest B. Murphy in articles that portrayed him as lenient toward defendants. Another reporter, Jules Crittenden, was cleared.
That's all well and good, but this part intrigued me:
The Herald's articles were picked up by media outlets across the country and Murphy was excoriated on talk radio shows. He became known as "Easy Ernie" and "Evil Ernie."
He was bombarded with hate mail, death threats and calls for his removal from the bench. In an Internet chat room, someone suggested that Murphy's own teenage daughters should be raped.
Two of Murphy's daughters were so frightened, they went to live with family members and friends. Murphy said he went out and bought a .357-caliber Magnum.
"I was afraid that someone was going to shoot me," he testified.
Think about that for a minute. A Massachusetts judge gets himself a gun as soon as he feels threatened. Remember, this is a state with ridiculous and draconian gun laws. Just ask mASS BACKWARDS.
I wonder how sympathetic he would have been to a defendant charged with simple gun possession before this happened.
Jury Finds Boston Herald Libeled Judge
BOSTON - A jury Friday ordered the Boston Herald to pay $2.1 million for libeling a Superior Court judge, saying it misquoted him as telling lawyers that a 14-year-old rape victim should "get over it."
In a case closely watched by the media and legal communities, a jury deliberated for more than 20 hours over five days before finding that the newspaper and reporter David Wedge libeled Superior Court Judge Ernest B. Murphy in articles that portrayed him as lenient toward defendants. Another reporter, Jules Crittenden, was cleared.
That's all well and good, but this part intrigued me:
The Herald's articles were picked up by media outlets across the country and Murphy was excoriated on talk radio shows. He became known as "Easy Ernie" and "Evil Ernie."
He was bombarded with hate mail, death threats and calls for his removal from the bench. In an Internet chat room, someone suggested that Murphy's own teenage daughters should be raped.
Two of Murphy's daughters were so frightened, they went to live with family members and friends. Murphy said he went out and bought a .357-caliber Magnum.
"I was afraid that someone was going to shoot me," he testified.
Think about that for a minute. A Massachusetts judge gets himself a gun as soon as he feels threatened. Remember, this is a state with ridiculous and draconian gun laws. Just ask mASS BACKWARDS.
I wonder how sympathetic he would have been to a defendant charged with simple gun possession before this happened.
Wow, twice in one day
I've been around about 15 months and the highest ranking blogs to ever link to me was Right-Thinking From the Left Coast and The Viking Pundit. Today, I get both Instapundit and Powerline linked to me. (Thank God it was them and not Kos and Kevin Drum)
Thanks to them for linking and I hope their visitors come back from time to time.
Thanks to them for linking and I hope their visitors come back from time to time.
Someone call the Harvard feminists
It is a shame that Lawrence Summers isn't behind this, or there would be some real outrage.
Borgata tells its Babes to stay thin or be fired
ATLANTIC CITY - Sex has its standard.
And at the Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa, it's the 7 percent solution.
On Valentine's Day, the casino began randomly weighing its 217 Borgata Babes, a brigade of shapely and mostly female cocktail servers, to determine a baseline for each. If any gain an ounce over 7 percent of that weight, they are to be suspended without pay. Servers are to be fired if they fail to lose the pounds during a prescribed period on a weight-loss program offered by the casino, according to the policy.
The casino expects to complete the mandatory weigh-ins within several months. The servers - who earn $4.50 an hour plus tips that, in a good week, could raise pay to $1,000 a week - are informed by supervisors when they are to be weighed.
I worked in the night club business a long time, and let's be honest here. None of these women would have been hired the begin with if they weren't "babes." Most of the women know what they got and use it shamelessly, and play men like fools to get that extra few bucks out of their pocket, especially in the casinos.
Like it or not, that's the way it is, and it works both ways. Men want good-looking women to look at, and will decide where to gamble based solely on the quality of the women who work there. As a result, the good-looking women who work there will reap a nice income. It sucks for the woman who are unfairly forced to lose weight or their job, but they knew the deal when they took the job.
Borgata tells its Babes to stay thin or be fired
ATLANTIC CITY - Sex has its standard.
And at the Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa, it's the 7 percent solution.
On Valentine's Day, the casino began randomly weighing its 217 Borgata Babes, a brigade of shapely and mostly female cocktail servers, to determine a baseline for each. If any gain an ounce over 7 percent of that weight, they are to be suspended without pay. Servers are to be fired if they fail to lose the pounds during a prescribed period on a weight-loss program offered by the casino, according to the policy.
The casino expects to complete the mandatory weigh-ins within several months. The servers - who earn $4.50 an hour plus tips that, in a good week, could raise pay to $1,000 a week - are informed by supervisors when they are to be weighed.
I worked in the night club business a long time, and let's be honest here. None of these women would have been hired the begin with if they weren't "babes." Most of the women know what they got and use it shamelessly, and play men like fools to get that extra few bucks out of their pocket, especially in the casinos.
Like it or not, that's the way it is, and it works both ways. Men want good-looking women to look at, and will decide where to gamble based solely on the quality of the women who work there. As a result, the good-looking women who work there will reap a nice income. It sucks for the woman who are unfairly forced to lose weight or their job, but they knew the deal when they took the job.
Yeah sure
Iran Does Not Intend to Build Nuclear Arms-Putin
MOSCOW (Reuters) - President Vladimir Putin said on Friday he was convinced Iran was not trying to build a nuclear weapon and that Russia would press ahead with nuclear cooperation with the Islamic Republic.
Putin's defense of Iran, where Russia is building a nuclear power plant, comes in the face of U.S. concerns that Tehran could be using Russian know-how to covertly build a nuclear weapon.
"The latest steps by Iran convince Russia that Iran indeed does not intend to produce nuclear weapons and we will continue to develop relations in all sectors, including peaceful atomic energy," Putin told Iran's top nuclear negotiator, Hassan Rohani.
"We hope Iran will strictly stick to all agreements with Russia or the international community," Putin said at the start of talks with Rohani at the Kremlin.
What's the old saying? Once KGB, always KGB. I wouldn't believe Putin if he told me Siberia was cold until I flew there and felt the cold myself. When Iran has a nuclear weapon, Putin will be as "shocked" as Kofi Annan was when he found out about the oil-for-food scandal.
MOSCOW (Reuters) - President Vladimir Putin said on Friday he was convinced Iran was not trying to build a nuclear weapon and that Russia would press ahead with nuclear cooperation with the Islamic Republic.
Putin's defense of Iran, where Russia is building a nuclear power plant, comes in the face of U.S. concerns that Tehran could be using Russian know-how to covertly build a nuclear weapon.
"The latest steps by Iran convince Russia that Iran indeed does not intend to produce nuclear weapons and we will continue to develop relations in all sectors, including peaceful atomic energy," Putin told Iran's top nuclear negotiator, Hassan Rohani.
"We hope Iran will strictly stick to all agreements with Russia or the international community," Putin said at the start of talks with Rohani at the Kremlin.
What's the old saying? Once KGB, always KGB. I wouldn't believe Putin if he told me Siberia was cold until I flew there and felt the cold myself. When Iran has a nuclear weapon, Putin will be as "shocked" as Kofi Annan was when he found out about the oil-for-food scandal.
Geffen is right
GEFFEN UNLOADS ON HILLARY: 'SHE CAN'T WIN'
Sen. Hillary Clinton should not count on help from Hollywood mogul David Geffen in her possible run for the White House.
Geffen, who was a generous supporter and pal of Bill Clinton when he was president, trashed Hillary's prospects last night during a Q&A at the 92nd St. Y in New York City.
"She can't win, and she's an incredibly polarizing figure," the billionaire Democrat told his audience. "And ambition is just not a good enough reason."
Lloyd Grove reports in fresh editions of the NY DAILY NEWS the audience broke with "hearty applause" over Geffen's comments.
While Geffen is right, I have a simple response to any Hillary supporter you know. Ask them, "What states that Bush won in this last election would go to Hillary the next time around?" Here, at UNM Law, I always get, "Well, here in New Mexico." And I say, "Not enough. Where else?" I never get an answer.
Go ahead, name one red state that will turn blue for Hillary? You can't. That is why she won't ever be President.
Sen. Hillary Clinton should not count on help from Hollywood mogul David Geffen in her possible run for the White House.
Geffen, who was a generous supporter and pal of Bill Clinton when he was president, trashed Hillary's prospects last night during a Q&A at the 92nd St. Y in New York City.
"She can't win, and she's an incredibly polarizing figure," the billionaire Democrat told his audience. "And ambition is just not a good enough reason."
Lloyd Grove reports in fresh editions of the NY DAILY NEWS the audience broke with "hearty applause" over Geffen's comments.
While Geffen is right, I have a simple response to any Hillary supporter you know. Ask them, "What states that Bush won in this last election would go to Hillary the next time around?" Here, at UNM Law, I always get, "Well, here in New Mexico." And I say, "Not enough. Where else?" I never get an answer.
Go ahead, name one red state that will turn blue for Hillary? You can't. That is why she won't ever be President.
My first Instalanche!!
Thursday, February 17, 2005
Nanny-state nonsense
Legislators, especially in the liberal wacko states, have way too much time on their hands. Via The Viking Pundit comes this example:
In her years in city government, Council Member Gale Brewer has sat through plenty of interminable hearings and tedious debates. When she goes to the movies, though, the Upper West Side Democrat wishes she didn't have to endure the preliminaries.
That's why Ms. Brewer introduced a bill yesterday that would require movie theaters to advertise the actual start time of a movie, rather than the time the previews are supposed to begin.
"I go to the theater on 68th and Broadway pretty regularly, and I go to the independent one," she said when asked about her movie-viewing habits. "I've seen all the ads accumulating. We can't stop the ads, but if people are more aware of the times it could help."
She decided to introduce legislation, Ms. Brewer said, after receiving more than a dozen complaints from her constituents about having to sit through previews and commercials for 15 minutes or more every time they go to the movies.
Things must be real good in New York if this is all she can complain about. Every single moviegoer in this country knows there are commercials and previews, and that the movie does not start at the time listed. So what? Even if there weren't previews and commercials, I'd still get there 20 minutes before the show to get a decent seat. Besides, I like the previews. And I suspect many more people like seeing them too. I don't know who is more pathetic, this council member or the people who complained to her.
However, if she introduced legislation to ban that Moviefone.com commercial I always see before a movie where some ugly dunce wishes to herself that there was a Moviefone.com candy bar with nuget in the middle, and "I'll bet the Japanese have a candy bar like that," I'd support that councilwoman in a second.
In her years in city government, Council Member Gale Brewer has sat through plenty of interminable hearings and tedious debates. When she goes to the movies, though, the Upper West Side Democrat wishes she didn't have to endure the preliminaries.
That's why Ms. Brewer introduced a bill yesterday that would require movie theaters to advertise the actual start time of a movie, rather than the time the previews are supposed to begin.
"I go to the theater on 68th and Broadway pretty regularly, and I go to the independent one," she said when asked about her movie-viewing habits. "I've seen all the ads accumulating. We can't stop the ads, but if people are more aware of the times it could help."
She decided to introduce legislation, Ms. Brewer said, after receiving more than a dozen complaints from her constituents about having to sit through previews and commercials for 15 minutes or more every time they go to the movies.
Things must be real good in New York if this is all she can complain about. Every single moviegoer in this country knows there are commercials and previews, and that the movie does not start at the time listed. So what? Even if there weren't previews and commercials, I'd still get there 20 minutes before the show to get a decent seat. Besides, I like the previews. And I suspect many more people like seeing them too. I don't know who is more pathetic, this council member or the people who complained to her.
However, if she introduced legislation to ban that Moviefone.com commercial I always see before a movie where some ugly dunce wishes to herself that there was a Moviefone.com candy bar with nuget in the middle, and "I'll bet the Japanese have a candy bar like that," I'd support that councilwoman in a second.
Wednesday, February 16, 2005
And that's that
The NHL season has been pronounced dead. And the sport itself in this country may not be far behind. I don't even know where to begin to express my disgust with the players union. I blame the players because the money just isn't there. They will rue this day. Brandon said it best in the comments:
7 months from now, the NHLPA will crawl back to the bargaining table, accept a $30 million cap, and like it.
The players may even have to go lower than that. What, do they think that people will just come back and pay $82 for lower level seats like nothing happened? (Especially since a lot of teams had huge problems selling those seats before.) There will be no money for any of them come next season. Of course there will be cries of collusion and the usual B.S. from the player agents, but that won't change the fact that the league is on life support. In fact, don't be surprised if a lot of those guys end up out of the NHL completely. I expect several teams to be gone when the dust settles. My prediction: Florida Panthers, Pittsburgh Penguins are history. And there is a real chance we will see the end of the Atlanta Thrashers, Carolina Hurricanes, Buffalo Sabres, and the Ottawa Senators. (I would have picked the Coyotes too if it wasn't for the new arena they have hardly even used.)
The NHL should declare an impasse, and unilaterally impose the terms. Gary Bettman should open camps up in September and say anyone who wants to play under these terms, come on in. If not, have fun in Russia, Germany, or wherever. It'll bust the union just like the NFL did to theirs in 1987.
The saddest part of all this is that few people really care. Brandon, Schpeen, and I are a small minority in this country.
7 months from now, the NHLPA will crawl back to the bargaining table, accept a $30 million cap, and like it.
The players may even have to go lower than that. What, do they think that people will just come back and pay $82 for lower level seats like nothing happened? (Especially since a lot of teams had huge problems selling those seats before.) There will be no money for any of them come next season. Of course there will be cries of collusion and the usual B.S. from the player agents, but that won't change the fact that the league is on life support. In fact, don't be surprised if a lot of those guys end up out of the NHL completely. I expect several teams to be gone when the dust settles. My prediction: Florida Panthers, Pittsburgh Penguins are history. And there is a real chance we will see the end of the Atlanta Thrashers, Carolina Hurricanes, Buffalo Sabres, and the Ottawa Senators. (I would have picked the Coyotes too if it wasn't for the new arena they have hardly even used.)
The NHL should declare an impasse, and unilaterally impose the terms. Gary Bettman should open camps up in September and say anyone who wants to play under these terms, come on in. If not, have fun in Russia, Germany, or wherever. It'll bust the union just like the NFL did to theirs in 1987.
The saddest part of all this is that few people really care. Brandon, Schpeen, and I are a small minority in this country.
If only they had midnight basketball
I was reading Betsy and came across this:
Outside View: Peacekeepers or predators?
To add insult to injury, the report also states that Congolese women and children were raped by U.N. blue helmets because of "the absence of any programs for off-duty peacekeepers," as though the presence of a few pinball machines might have provided an effective diversion.
This my friends is the "moral authority" of the United Nations in action.
Outside View: Peacekeepers or predators?
To add insult to injury, the report also states that Congolese women and children were raped by U.N. blue helmets because of "the absence of any programs for off-duty peacekeepers," as though the presence of a few pinball machines might have provided an effective diversion.
This my friends is the "moral authority" of the United Nations in action.
Tuesday, February 15, 2005
Memo to NHL Players: Take the deal
It is coming down to the wire for the NHL season. As one of the small minoriy of people who care deeply about the NHL, I hope the players come to their senses and settle by tomorrow. A 28-game season is better than nothing. Plus, the future of hockey in this country is at stake. The players need to realize that the money is just not there.
More on this tomorrow, after we see what happens.
More on this tomorrow, after we see what happens.
Today's headlines
More crap about Kyoto. I'll start with the end of the article.
Bush Sees Jobs at Risk in Climate Treaty
Former Vice President Al Gore was a main participant in putting the Kyoto accord together in 1997. Before then, however, the Senate went on record opposing some of the treaty's principles, including the idea of exempting developing nations from any of its targets.
"The evidence of this worsening crises continues to mount," Gore said Tuesday, accusing the Bush administration of showing the world "a stunning display of moral cowardice."
Well it seems that Al Gore did not do much of a good job helping put together the Kyoto accord because the Senate in the Byrd-Hagel Resolution said they would reject it if submitted to them by a vote of 95-0. I guess Bush is so evil, he had Karl Rove build a time machine and go back in time to have the Senate reject Kyoto.
Tsunami victims to sue French hotel chain, Thailand, US forecasters
VIENNA (AFP) - A group of Austrian and German victims of the Asian tsunami disaster are to file a lawsuit demanding that Thailand, a French hotel chain and US forecasters prove they reacted adequately to the disaster, their lawyers said.
The suit, naming the French hotel chain Accor and the US-run tsunami early warning system in the Pacific as well as Thai authorities, will be filed in a New York district court this week, the lawyers said in Vienna.
"We found that serious lapses were committed," said Herwig Hasslacher, one of the three lawyers for the group.
And here's the best part:
They said the suit was not, at present, designed to demand compensation but to uncover evidence that would prove negligence.
Yeah, right. It is always about the money. Why else prove negligence. Let's analyze this a little. (Remember, I am only a first-year law student)
Act/Omission: They failed to warn about the tsunami. So what, I say.
Duty: Did they owe a duty to the victims? Was the tsunami reasonably forseeable? What is the policy? Here, Accor gets summary judgment and is off the hook. And, so should the US-run tsunami early warning facility, because they had no duty to the victims.
It is stories like this that make people hate lawyers, and it is hard to blame them after this.
Toll to drive downtown?
San Francisco would become the first city in the nation to charge drivers just for driving in its chronically congested downtown under a sure-to-be controversial proposal being aired today.
Supervisor Jake McGoldrick, chair of the San Francisco Transportation Authority, will ask the agency to study a downtown toll zone -- whereby drivers would need to purchase a daily pass to drive in The City's most congested streets -- as a potential solution to the Municipal Transportation Agency's woeful budget problems.
This is liberalism at its finest. Tax, tax, tax, and tax. Last month it was a 17-cent shopping bag tax. And now this. Wasn't it Justice Brandeis who said that states should have some leeway to experiment with laws and policies, and act as a laboratory? Well, if San Francisco were a science experiment, the peer reviwers would have laughed it off years ago. It is only a matter of time before that city has a serious financial collapse.
Modeled on similar "congestion charging" zones in London, cameras would record license plates and tickets would be issued for motorists who failed to purchase a pass. The intent is for drivers to pick other routes, avoid coming downtown or switch to Muni, which would travel more efficiently in the faster flowing streets.
No one will complain about those cameras until they are used as evidence to solve a crime. That is what it will take to get the civil-liberties crowd upset. If I were a politician against this tax, I'd play up the civil liberties angle to no end.
Lawsuits Spread in Over Penis Enlargement Claims
LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - A New Jersey man has filed a false advertising lawsuit against a maker of herbal penis enlargement pills, alleging the medicine does not fulfill its promises, the plaintiff's lawyer said on Monday...
In the latest case, filed on Jan. 21 in New Jersey state court, plaintiff Michael Coluzzi claimed he paid $59.95 for a 30-day supply of Alzare pills but "experienced no increase in penis size," and then was unable to collect a promised refund from manufacturer Alzare LLC of Boca Raton, Florida.
I think someone should explain to this guy the concept of acceptable losses. For $59.95, he has made himself a laughingstock.
Bush Sees Jobs at Risk in Climate Treaty
Former Vice President Al Gore was a main participant in putting the Kyoto accord together in 1997. Before then, however, the Senate went on record opposing some of the treaty's principles, including the idea of exempting developing nations from any of its targets.
"The evidence of this worsening crises continues to mount," Gore said Tuesday, accusing the Bush administration of showing the world "a stunning display of moral cowardice."
Well it seems that Al Gore did not do much of a good job helping put together the Kyoto accord because the Senate in the Byrd-Hagel Resolution said they would reject it if submitted to them by a vote of 95-0. I guess Bush is so evil, he had Karl Rove build a time machine and go back in time to have the Senate reject Kyoto.
Tsunami victims to sue French hotel chain, Thailand, US forecasters
VIENNA (AFP) - A group of Austrian and German victims of the Asian tsunami disaster are to file a lawsuit demanding that Thailand, a French hotel chain and US forecasters prove they reacted adequately to the disaster, their lawyers said.
The suit, naming the French hotel chain Accor and the US-run tsunami early warning system in the Pacific as well as Thai authorities, will be filed in a New York district court this week, the lawyers said in Vienna.
"We found that serious lapses were committed," said Herwig Hasslacher, one of the three lawyers for the group.
And here's the best part:
They said the suit was not, at present, designed to demand compensation but to uncover evidence that would prove negligence.
Yeah, right. It is always about the money. Why else prove negligence. Let's analyze this a little. (Remember, I am only a first-year law student)
Act/Omission: They failed to warn about the tsunami. So what, I say.
Duty: Did they owe a duty to the victims? Was the tsunami reasonably forseeable? What is the policy? Here, Accor gets summary judgment and is off the hook. And, so should the US-run tsunami early warning facility, because they had no duty to the victims.
It is stories like this that make people hate lawyers, and it is hard to blame them after this.
Toll to drive downtown?
San Francisco would become the first city in the nation to charge drivers just for driving in its chronically congested downtown under a sure-to-be controversial proposal being aired today.
Supervisor Jake McGoldrick, chair of the San Francisco Transportation Authority, will ask the agency to study a downtown toll zone -- whereby drivers would need to purchase a daily pass to drive in The City's most congested streets -- as a potential solution to the Municipal Transportation Agency's woeful budget problems.
This is liberalism at its finest. Tax, tax, tax, and tax. Last month it was a 17-cent shopping bag tax. And now this. Wasn't it Justice Brandeis who said that states should have some leeway to experiment with laws and policies, and act as a laboratory? Well, if San Francisco were a science experiment, the peer reviwers would have laughed it off years ago. It is only a matter of time before that city has a serious financial collapse.
Modeled on similar "congestion charging" zones in London, cameras would record license plates and tickets would be issued for motorists who failed to purchase a pass. The intent is for drivers to pick other routes, avoid coming downtown or switch to Muni, which would travel more efficiently in the faster flowing streets.
No one will complain about those cameras until they are used as evidence to solve a crime. That is what it will take to get the civil-liberties crowd upset. If I were a politician against this tax, I'd play up the civil liberties angle to no end.
Lawsuits Spread in Over Penis Enlargement Claims
LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - A New Jersey man has filed a false advertising lawsuit against a maker of herbal penis enlargement pills, alleging the medicine does not fulfill its promises, the plaintiff's lawyer said on Monday...
In the latest case, filed on Jan. 21 in New Jersey state court, plaintiff Michael Coluzzi claimed he paid $59.95 for a 30-day supply of Alzare pills but "experienced no increase in penis size," and then was unable to collect a promised refund from manufacturer Alzare LLC of Boca Raton, Florida.
I think someone should explain to this guy the concept of acceptable losses. For $59.95, he has made himself a laughingstock.
Our visit to Colorado Springs
Our weekend in Colorado Springs was great. I liked the place a ton. A good conservative town with beautiful scenery and nice people. On Saturday morning, Stephanie, Emily, and I drove up as high as we could on Pike's Peak, 16 miles. (out of 19. The last 3 were closed due to snow.) I have a nice Ford Escape 4x4 and we had no trouble getting up, but it was as scary as hell to drive up to the top. Because Emily was in the car, I was afraid that I would drive over the side at some points, so I drove real cautiously. (Unlike driving up there, because I got a speeding ticket for doing 89 in a 75) When we got as high as we could go, we got out of the car to take a few pictures. I have never been that high up, and it felt like I was looking out of an airplane window. Pike's Peak is beautiful, and except for the scary parts, I really enjoyed that drive. The park ranger, a real nice and friendly lady, drove and an offered to take a family picture for us. Here it is:
And here is Emily and I about halfway back down the mountain. She has never seen this much snow.
And then, (the whole reason of our trip), we drove over to the Pike's Peak Center to see Dora the Explorer Pirate Adventure Live. To be honest, I thought it was going to be a super cheesy show. And, in some ways it was. But, for the most part, it was really terrific. We were in the 3rd row, Emily stared straight at the stage through both 25-minute acts. She hardly moved the whole time. She absoluely loved it!! The only time she turned her attention away was the very end, when they sang Gloria Estefan's song "Get on your Feet." At that moment, I realized that my 14-month old baby really recognized and understood the Dora show because she got antsy only when they did something outside the normal course of the show. We drove over 800-miles roundtrip to see that show, and her happiness was well worth it. I love my Emily more than life itself, and I would driven cross-country to see her that excited. I am glad Stephanie and I took her.
If you have children, I recommend you see the Dora show. There is nothing funnier than screaming "Swiper, no swiping!" and singing "We did it!" with a couple thousand people. If you ever go, it will be a fun family outing. Also, visit Colorado Springs too. What a beautiful town.
To end off the weekend, we had breakfast with my old college buddy Joe, who is now the night DJ Jo-Jo on 98.9 Magic-FM in Colorado Springs. I haven't seen him in a while, and it was great to laugh about all the things we did on the radio back in college a decade ago. I got out of radio 4 years ago, and he is still rolling along. I give him credit for that.
It was a great weekend, and here is my favorite picture of the trip. You should have heard Emily laugh everytime she touched the snow:
And here is Emily and I about halfway back down the mountain. She has never seen this much snow.
And then, (the whole reason of our trip), we drove over to the Pike's Peak Center to see Dora the Explorer Pirate Adventure Live. To be honest, I thought it was going to be a super cheesy show. And, in some ways it was. But, for the most part, it was really terrific. We were in the 3rd row, Emily stared straight at the stage through both 25-minute acts. She hardly moved the whole time. She absoluely loved it!! The only time she turned her attention away was the very end, when they sang Gloria Estefan's song "Get on your Feet." At that moment, I realized that my 14-month old baby really recognized and understood the Dora show because she got antsy only when they did something outside the normal course of the show. We drove over 800-miles roundtrip to see that show, and her happiness was well worth it. I love my Emily more than life itself, and I would driven cross-country to see her that excited. I am glad Stephanie and I took her.
If you have children, I recommend you see the Dora show. There is nothing funnier than screaming "Swiper, no swiping!" and singing "We did it!" with a couple thousand people. If you ever go, it will be a fun family outing. Also, visit Colorado Springs too. What a beautiful town.
To end off the weekend, we had breakfast with my old college buddy Joe, who is now the night DJ Jo-Jo on 98.9 Magic-FM in Colorado Springs. I haven't seen him in a while, and it was great to laugh about all the things we did on the radio back in college a decade ago. I got out of radio 4 years ago, and he is still rolling along. I give him credit for that.
It was a great weekend, and here is my favorite picture of the trip. You should have heard Emily laugh everytime she touched the snow:
Monday, February 14, 2005
Time to start making funeral plans
Thursday, February 10, 2005
Off to Colorado Springs this weekend
There is nothing that Stephanie and I would not do for Emily. For Christmas, I decided to surprise Emily and her Mom with a weekend trip to Colorado Springs, Colorado, about 380 miles from where we live in New Mexico. The whole purpose of the trip? To take Emily to see Dora the Explorer live. Because we live in a shantytown like Albuquerque, Dora doesn't come here, we have to go to her. So be it. Emily loves Dora, we love Emily, so we are hitting the road. Before my stepfather came along, I only had a poor, sigle mother to raise me and my brother and sister. I want Emily to have everything I didn't, even if it means driving 6 hours to see a silly show like Dora's Pirate Adventure. I will have a review after I see the show. I'm sure you can't wait.
A gander at today's headlines
Without a doubt, this is tomfoolery of the highest order, exactly why I started this blog, and why I gave it the name it has.
Dean Vows to Lead Democrats Back to Power
WASHINGTON - Howard Dean (news - web sites) promised cheering supporters Wednesday night he would harness their energy to lead the Democratic Party back to power in the halls of Congress and the White House by 2008.
The virtually certain incoming chairman of the Democratic National Committee (news - web sites) rallied hundreds of young supporters, and a few he called "young at heart," in a campaign-style appearance at a Washington nightspot within view of the Capitol. In his first public appearance since clinching the chairmanship, he gave a glimpse of the kind of uncompromising leadership he plans for the national party.
The Democrats "are a party of the future, while Republicans are the party of the past," Dean said.
"We need to be proud to be Democrats," said Dean, recalling the kind of exuberant appearances he made during 2003 when he came close to winning the Democratic presidential nomination before collapsing in early 2004 in Iowa.
First off, he came close to winning the nomination? Are they serious? He won all of one primary, his home state of Vermont. Second, do you not just love this? A year ago at this time, this guy imploded right before our eyes and we laughed about it for weeks, even months. Now, he is the leader of the DNC!! Think about that for a minute. This is the guy the Democrats think will lead them back to majority status. I wonder how many Republicans are laughing their asses off right now. I know I am.
Clinton Sees Better Future for Democrats
In a related story, Clinton also said that Northeastern Liberals can expect warmer days in the coming months. Seriously, there is nowhere for the Democrats to go but up.
S.Korea Shocked, Suspicious at N.Korea Nuclear Boast
SEOUL (Reuters) - South Korea reacted with shock and suspicion on Friday to the first declaration from the reclusive North that it had nuclear weapons and had pulled out indefinitely from six-party disarmament talks.
How do you say "Claude Raines" in Korean? When I was in Seoul a few years ago, I was walking through that vibrant city thinking, "Thanks to Clinton and Carter, this may all disappear in a flash." By the way, this also provides an excuse to show you a picture of me in Seoul.
Gibson relaunches "Passion of Christ" with a new cut
I may go see this version. I was very touched by this movie, and would like to see a scaled down version. I hope it does another $25 million on re-release.
Prince Charles to Marry Parker Bowles
I don't give a shit.
Seniors skeptical of Bush proposal
Read this planted, laughable story. I read the Viking Pundit to keep up with all of the news on the Social Security front, and let me tell you this: If I ever get the chance to join a private account, I'm in right away. And if you are afraid that you'll lose it all, then don't sign up. Let us have our choice. We don't need the government to be daddy here. If the media weren't in the tank for whatever the Democrats tell them to be in the tank for, they'd report more on how well privatization has gone for Galveston, Texas. Social Security is a Ponzi scheme, and some of us want out.
Poll: Tap wealthy on Social Security
Does anyone else hear Danny DeVito saying, "Other people's money" in their ear too?
House Likely to OK Migrant Restrictions
Migrant: The new PC term for illegal alien, courtesy of the L.A. Times.
Healthcare Costs Take Big Bite From Economy
WASHINGTON — Increased spending for healthcare is gobbling up about one-quarter of the growth in the economy, and health-related items now amount to more than three times the defense budget and twice what the nation devotes to education, a report released today concludes.
And that's WITHOUT socialized health care.
Dean Vows to Lead Democrats Back to Power
WASHINGTON - Howard Dean (news - web sites) promised cheering supporters Wednesday night he would harness their energy to lead the Democratic Party back to power in the halls of Congress and the White House by 2008.
The virtually certain incoming chairman of the Democratic National Committee (news - web sites) rallied hundreds of young supporters, and a few he called "young at heart," in a campaign-style appearance at a Washington nightspot within view of the Capitol. In his first public appearance since clinching the chairmanship, he gave a glimpse of the kind of uncompromising leadership he plans for the national party.
The Democrats "are a party of the future, while Republicans are the party of the past," Dean said.
"We need to be proud to be Democrats," said Dean, recalling the kind of exuberant appearances he made during 2003 when he came close to winning the Democratic presidential nomination before collapsing in early 2004 in Iowa.
First off, he came close to winning the nomination? Are they serious? He won all of one primary, his home state of Vermont. Second, do you not just love this? A year ago at this time, this guy imploded right before our eyes and we laughed about it for weeks, even months. Now, he is the leader of the DNC!! Think about that for a minute. This is the guy the Democrats think will lead them back to majority status. I wonder how many Republicans are laughing their asses off right now. I know I am.
Clinton Sees Better Future for Democrats
In a related story, Clinton also said that Northeastern Liberals can expect warmer days in the coming months. Seriously, there is nowhere for the Democrats to go but up.
S.Korea Shocked, Suspicious at N.Korea Nuclear Boast
SEOUL (Reuters) - South Korea reacted with shock and suspicion on Friday to the first declaration from the reclusive North that it had nuclear weapons and had pulled out indefinitely from six-party disarmament talks.
How do you say "Claude Raines" in Korean? When I was in Seoul a few years ago, I was walking through that vibrant city thinking, "Thanks to Clinton and Carter, this may all disappear in a flash." By the way, this also provides an excuse to show you a picture of me in Seoul.
Gibson relaunches "Passion of Christ" with a new cut
I may go see this version. I was very touched by this movie, and would like to see a scaled down version. I hope it does another $25 million on re-release.
Prince Charles to Marry Parker Bowles
I don't give a shit.
Seniors skeptical of Bush proposal
Read this planted, laughable story. I read the Viking Pundit to keep up with all of the news on the Social Security front, and let me tell you this: If I ever get the chance to join a private account, I'm in right away. And if you are afraid that you'll lose it all, then don't sign up. Let us have our choice. We don't need the government to be daddy here. If the media weren't in the tank for whatever the Democrats tell them to be in the tank for, they'd report more on how well privatization has gone for Galveston, Texas. Social Security is a Ponzi scheme, and some of us want out.
Poll: Tap wealthy on Social Security
Does anyone else hear Danny DeVito saying, "Other people's money" in their ear too?
House Likely to OK Migrant Restrictions
Migrant: The new PC term for illegal alien, courtesy of the L.A. Times.
Healthcare Costs Take Big Bite From Economy
WASHINGTON — Increased spending for healthcare is gobbling up about one-quarter of the growth in the economy, and health-related items now amount to more than three times the defense budget and twice what the nation devotes to education, a report released today concludes.
And that's WITHOUT socialized health care.
Wednesday, February 09, 2005
Scumbag Ward Churchill
I really don't care about this Ward Churchill nonsense. He is a racial phony, and a scumbag who hates America. F Him.
I wish he had said that he was glad the WTC was attacked because it destroyed a 2nd-floor abortion clinic. He'd have been fired a week ago.
I wish he had said that he was glad the WTC was attacked because it destroyed a 2nd-floor abortion clinic. He'd have been fired a week ago.
Yeah, they'll write a nasty letter
Europeans to warn Iranians about violating spirit of nuclear freeze
GENEVA (AFP) - The EU is set to warn Iran against violating an agreed nuclear fuel freeze when the two sides meet, amid concern that Iran is secretly developing nuclear weapons, diplomats said.
The meeting comes the day after US Secretary of State Condoleeza Rice warned that the European Union was not being tough enough with Iran.
But on Thursday Britain, France and Germany "are going to read the riot act to the Iranians," a diplomat close to the talks told AFP earlier in the week.
Yeah, ok. I'm sure Iran will be quaking in their boots. Sooner or later, a few bombers are going to have to pay a visit to Iran. Expect the liberals and the gutless "world community" to complain as usual. I won't be listening. I'll be too busy thanking God that problem was settled once and for all.
GENEVA (AFP) - The EU is set to warn Iran against violating an agreed nuclear fuel freeze when the two sides meet, amid concern that Iran is secretly developing nuclear weapons, diplomats said.
The meeting comes the day after US Secretary of State Condoleeza Rice warned that the European Union was not being tough enough with Iran.
But on Thursday Britain, France and Germany "are going to read the riot act to the Iranians," a diplomat close to the talks told AFP earlier in the week.
Yeah, ok. I'm sure Iran will be quaking in their boots. Sooner or later, a few bombers are going to have to pay a visit to Iran. Expect the liberals and the gutless "world community" to complain as usual. I won't be listening. I'll be too busy thanking God that problem was settled once and for all.
Here's a stunner
Medicare Drug Benefit to Cost $724 Billion
WASHINGTON - President Bush added Medicare to the government's fix-it list Wednesday after new figures showed the first full decade of the program's prescription benefit will cost taxpayers $724 billion.
The new figure for years 2006 through 2015 is much higher than the $534 billion cost calculated for years 2004 through 2013. That's because under the previous decade-long projection, the benefit didn't exist for two of the 10 years.
Gee, a government program costs much more than projected. Who'd have thunk it? Here's the part that makes me laugh even harder than when Bush originally proposed this: A California liberal complaining about the high cost of a government program.
This new information further demonstrates what appears to be an attempt to dupe Congress and win passage of the legislation," said one such lawmaker, Sen. Dianne Feinstein, D-Calif., calling for an investigation by the Senate Finance Committee.
Look, Bush got ripped about by me and nearly every other conservative when he proposed this. We all knew this would happen. The saddest part of it all is that if the Democrats passed this, it would have cost even more.
WASHINGTON - President Bush added Medicare to the government's fix-it list Wednesday after new figures showed the first full decade of the program's prescription benefit will cost taxpayers $724 billion.
The new figure for years 2006 through 2015 is much higher than the $534 billion cost calculated for years 2004 through 2013. That's because under the previous decade-long projection, the benefit didn't exist for two of the 10 years.
Gee, a government program costs much more than projected. Who'd have thunk it? Here's the part that makes me laugh even harder than when Bush originally proposed this: A California liberal complaining about the high cost of a government program.
This new information further demonstrates what appears to be an attempt to dupe Congress and win passage of the legislation," said one such lawmaker, Sen. Dianne Feinstein, D-Calif., calling for an investigation by the Senate Finance Committee.
Look, Bush got ripped about by me and nearly every other conservative when he proposed this. We all knew this would happen. The saddest part of it all is that if the Democrats passed this, it would have cost even more.
Go buy a few
Here we go again
The New York Times just loves the "Bush knew" meme.
9/11 Report Cites Many Warnings About Hijackings
WASHINGTON, Feb. 9 - In the months before the Sept. 11 attacks, federal aviation officials reviewed dozens of intelligence reports that warned about Osama bin Laden and Al Qaeda, some of which specifically discussed airline hijackings and suicide operations, according to a previously undisclosed report from the 9/11 commission.
But aviation officials were "lulled into a false sense of security," and "intelligence that indicated a real and growing threat leading up to 9/11 did not stimulate significant increases in security procedures," the commission report concluded.
The report discloses that the Federal Aviation Administration, despite being focused on risks of hijackings overseas, warned airports in the spring of 2001 that if "the intent of the hijacker is not to exchange hostages for prisoners, but to commit suicide in a spectacular explosion, a domestic hijacking would probably be preferable."
The report takes the F.A.A. to task for failing to pursue domestic security measures that could conceivably have altered the events of Sept. 11, 2001, like toughening airport screening procedures for weapons or expanding the use of on-flight air marshals. The report, completed last August, said officials appeared more concerned with reducing airline congestion, lessening delays, and easing airlines' financial woes than deterring a terrorist attack.
Gee, how about that thing called "racial profiling?" Perhaps Bush, Norm Mineta, et al wanted to avoid that. Does that ever come into play where the New York Times is concerned? Of course not.
Just ask yourself this question: Say tomorrow, after all we know now, 19 Arabs are pulled off of 4 flights in 3 cities because intelligence was obtained that they planned to hijack the flights. What would be on the front page of the New York Times? The evil Bush "racially profiled" them, and everyone from the Times to the ACLU on down would scream bloody murder.
They have a lot of balls to run crap like this. No wonder their circulation is down.
9/11 Report Cites Many Warnings About Hijackings
WASHINGTON, Feb. 9 - In the months before the Sept. 11 attacks, federal aviation officials reviewed dozens of intelligence reports that warned about Osama bin Laden and Al Qaeda, some of which specifically discussed airline hijackings and suicide operations, according to a previously undisclosed report from the 9/11 commission.
But aviation officials were "lulled into a false sense of security," and "intelligence that indicated a real and growing threat leading up to 9/11 did not stimulate significant increases in security procedures," the commission report concluded.
The report discloses that the Federal Aviation Administration, despite being focused on risks of hijackings overseas, warned airports in the spring of 2001 that if "the intent of the hijacker is not to exchange hostages for prisoners, but to commit suicide in a spectacular explosion, a domestic hijacking would probably be preferable."
The report takes the F.A.A. to task for failing to pursue domestic security measures that could conceivably have altered the events of Sept. 11, 2001, like toughening airport screening procedures for weapons or expanding the use of on-flight air marshals. The report, completed last August, said officials appeared more concerned with reducing airline congestion, lessening delays, and easing airlines' financial woes than deterring a terrorist attack.
Gee, how about that thing called "racial profiling?" Perhaps Bush, Norm Mineta, et al wanted to avoid that. Does that ever come into play where the New York Times is concerned? Of course not.
Just ask yourself this question: Say tomorrow, after all we know now, 19 Arabs are pulled off of 4 flights in 3 cities because intelligence was obtained that they planned to hijack the flights. What would be on the front page of the New York Times? The evil Bush "racially profiled" them, and everyone from the Times to the ACLU on down would scream bloody murder.
They have a lot of balls to run crap like this. No wonder their circulation is down.
Via Mudville Gazette
Laugh of the day
Dick Morris just called Madeline Albright a "battleax" on The O'Reilly Factor. It'll take me 3 days to stop laughing.
Wait a second
I thought Karl Rove ran everything? After all, he is Bush's brain, puppetmaster, evil spinmeister, you name it.
Rove's New Position Will Involve Policy
WASHINGTON (AP) - Karl Rove, the senior political strategist who orchestrated President Bush's re-election campaign, has been promoted to deputy chief of staff, a job that will involve him in most White House policy and not just politics.
Rove will retain his title as senior adviser and will continue to oversee strategy to advance the president's agenda. In addition, he will continue to oversee the offices of intergovernmental affairs, political affairs and strategic initiatives.
But he will add to his portfolio the oversight of all White House policy development and coordination of the Domestic Policy Council, the National Economic Council, the National Security Council and the Homeland Security Council, White House press secretary Scott McClellan said.
I was stunned by this next sentence.
The promotion has rankled a few Democrats.
Wait a second. Why are they upset? After all, if you listened to those dopes over the last 4+ years, Rove has already been doing this. Leave it to Terry McAuliffe to verbalize the Democrat tomfoolery.
``Empowering Rove in this way shows that Bush cares more about political positioning than honest policy discussions,'' said Terry McAuliffe, chairman of the Democratic National Committee. ``Bush knows that Rove is neither an economic nor a national security expert. He is simply an ideological strategist. ... Clearly, Bush thinks political manipulation matters more than keeping the president honestly informed about the state of the country.''
McAuliffe is jealous of Rove, pure and simple. Just take a look at their respective track records. Does anyone care anymore about what the Dems think?
Rove's New Position Will Involve Policy
WASHINGTON (AP) - Karl Rove, the senior political strategist who orchestrated President Bush's re-election campaign, has been promoted to deputy chief of staff, a job that will involve him in most White House policy and not just politics.
Rove will retain his title as senior adviser and will continue to oversee strategy to advance the president's agenda. In addition, he will continue to oversee the offices of intergovernmental affairs, political affairs and strategic initiatives.
But he will add to his portfolio the oversight of all White House policy development and coordination of the Domestic Policy Council, the National Economic Council, the National Security Council and the Homeland Security Council, White House press secretary Scott McClellan said.
I was stunned by this next sentence.
The promotion has rankled a few Democrats.
Wait a second. Why are they upset? After all, if you listened to those dopes over the last 4+ years, Rove has already been doing this. Leave it to Terry McAuliffe to verbalize the Democrat tomfoolery.
``Empowering Rove in this way shows that Bush cares more about political positioning than honest policy discussions,'' said Terry McAuliffe, chairman of the Democratic National Committee. ``Bush knows that Rove is neither an economic nor a national security expert. He is simply an ideological strategist. ... Clearly, Bush thinks political manipulation matters more than keeping the president honestly informed about the state of the country.''
McAuliffe is jealous of Rove, pure and simple. Just take a look at their respective track records. Does anyone care anymore about what the Dems think?
Free speech works both ways
I love this guy, and would love to clerk for a judge with this attitude after I get out of law school.
Judge won't use clerks from Yale
An Alabama federal judge has told Yale Law School he won't accept its graduates for clerkships because the school blocks military recruiters from campus.
Senior U.S. District Judge William Acker Jr., a Yale graduate, explained his decision in a Monday letter to the law school's Dean Harold Koh.
Acker wrote that he was exercising the same freedom of speech that U.S. District Judge Janet C. Hall supported when she ruled Jan. 31. She backed the faculty's claim that their rights to free speech were violated by enforcement of the Solomon amendment, which requires schools to provide access to military recruiters or lose federal funding, including student loans.
In response, Acker said Yale Law School students need not apply.
"Some of my very best law clerks have been from the law school from which I proudly graduated," Acker said. "I therefore recognize that this publicly announced decision will hurt me more than the allowing of military recruiters would hurt YLS."
Let's hope this backlash of unintending consequences strikes Yale real hard.
Judge won't use clerks from Yale
An Alabama federal judge has told Yale Law School he won't accept its graduates for clerkships because the school blocks military recruiters from campus.
Senior U.S. District Judge William Acker Jr., a Yale graduate, explained his decision in a Monday letter to the law school's Dean Harold Koh.
Acker wrote that he was exercising the same freedom of speech that U.S. District Judge Janet C. Hall supported when she ruled Jan. 31. She backed the faculty's claim that their rights to free speech were violated by enforcement of the Solomon amendment, which requires schools to provide access to military recruiters or lose federal funding, including student loans.
In response, Acker said Yale Law School students need not apply.
"Some of my very best law clerks have been from the law school from which I proudly graduated," Acker said. "I therefore recognize that this publicly announced decision will hurt me more than the allowing of military recruiters would hurt YLS."
Let's hope this backlash of unintending consequences strikes Yale real hard.
Tuesday, February 08, 2005
Speaking of sissy liberals
Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid has a sad frown because that meanie President Bush pointed out his record. That Bush really needs a time out.
More delicious irony from the Bay Area
This is the seal for the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals:
As what is always bound to happen with these things, some crybaby atheist finally noticed it and filed a lawsuit because his feelings were hurt.
Church-state suit filed over court's seal
As the U.S. Supreme Court prepares to decide the constitutionality of displaying the Ten Commandments on government property, a lawyer has sued the Ninth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco for apparently including an image of the commandments in its official seal.
Ryan Donlon spotted an image of what he believes are the commandments -- tablets with 10 indecipherable lines -- emblazoned on the seal on the certificate he received in the mail last June when he was admitted to practice law before the court.
In his suit, filed last Friday in U.S. District Court, Donlon said the inclusion of the Ten Commandments on the seal, which is also displayed on other Ninth Circuit documents and in court buildings, "has no secular purpose'' and violates his right not to be subjected to government endorsement of religion. He seeks a court ban on the seal.
Awwww. Poor baby. Perhaps we should send him some warm milk and cookies so he feels better. I love this next part:
"America was founded by people seeking refuge from established religion, '' the business lawyer from Pleasanton said Monday.
Yes, and somehow, we have avoided having an established religion for a few hundred years from now. Like or not, religion has a strong history in this country, and the Ten Commandments are part of our legal system.
This is nothing more than an attention-getter from this clown. Clowns like this guy make me embarrassed to tell people I am a law student.
Here's his webpage and picture.
As what is always bound to happen with these things, some crybaby atheist finally noticed it and filed a lawsuit because his feelings were hurt.
Church-state suit filed over court's seal
As the U.S. Supreme Court prepares to decide the constitutionality of displaying the Ten Commandments on government property, a lawyer has sued the Ninth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco for apparently including an image of the commandments in its official seal.
Ryan Donlon spotted an image of what he believes are the commandments -- tablets with 10 indecipherable lines -- emblazoned on the seal on the certificate he received in the mail last June when he was admitted to practice law before the court.
In his suit, filed last Friday in U.S. District Court, Donlon said the inclusion of the Ten Commandments on the seal, which is also displayed on other Ninth Circuit documents and in court buildings, "has no secular purpose'' and violates his right not to be subjected to government endorsement of religion. He seeks a court ban on the seal.
Awwww. Poor baby. Perhaps we should send him some warm milk and cookies so he feels better. I love this next part:
"America was founded by people seeking refuge from established religion, '' the business lawyer from Pleasanton said Monday.
Yes, and somehow, we have avoided having an established religion for a few hundred years from now. Like or not, religion has a strong history in this country, and the Ten Commandments are part of our legal system.
This is nothing more than an attention-getter from this clown. Clowns like this guy make me embarrassed to tell people I am a law student.
Here's his webpage and picture.
Monday, February 07, 2005
The Amish are Eagles fans
I grew up in Philly and went out to Amish country many times. I deeply respect their lifestyle although I could never live it myself. Take a minute to read this terrific article by ESPN's Jim Caple, who talks about his experience watching the Super Bowl in Amish country. The conclusion really makes you think about the world we live in, and if it is really better than theirs.
As for me, it's time to get back to Philadelphia; and as I drive east along I-76, I think about the decision the Amish men I met have to make.
It must be an agonizing decision, at least for some. To leave behind your people, or to leave behind a world? To reject everything we take for granted -- cars, computers, movies and TiVo -- for a world where so much we love and enjoy is banned? Which life is better? A life of choices, or a life of limits? A life of progress, or a life rooted in the past? A life where I can drive the 70 miles back to Philadelphia in little more than an hour, or a life where a horse and buggy provide most transportation needs?
Which is the true Real World? A life where we know the ins and outs of Brad and Jen's breakup but don't know our neighbors' names, or a life where you can't have wall-to-wall carpeting but your neighbors will help you rebuild your barn?
I think about these things, and then I think about Fox's promos for the upcoming episodes of "Trading Spouses: Meet Your New Mommy" and "The Simple Life." And ... well, maybe the choice isn't as difficult for them as we would like to think.
As for me, it's time to get back to Philadelphia; and as I drive east along I-76, I think about the decision the Amish men I met have to make.
It must be an agonizing decision, at least for some. To leave behind your people, or to leave behind a world? To reject everything we take for granted -- cars, computers, movies and TiVo -- for a world where so much we love and enjoy is banned? Which life is better? A life of choices, or a life of limits? A life of progress, or a life rooted in the past? A life where I can drive the 70 miles back to Philadelphia in little more than an hour, or a life where a horse and buggy provide most transportation needs?
Which is the true Real World? A life where we know the ins and outs of Brad and Jen's breakup but don't know our neighbors' names, or a life where you can't have wall-to-wall carpeting but your neighbors will help you rebuild your barn?
I think about these things, and then I think about Fox's promos for the upcoming episodes of "Trading Spouses: Meet Your New Mommy" and "The Simple Life." And ... well, maybe the choice isn't as difficult for them as we would like to think.
This is great
New York Times scumbag
Even when discussing a Super Bowl ad, the New York Times can't stop the Bush-bashing.
Anheuser-Busch A gauzy valentine to American troops, which ended with the Anheuser-Busch corporate logo superimposed on screen, was touching, but some viewers may have wondered whether "Busch" had been misspelled.
Watch the great ad here.
I have been reading some of the snide comments around the internet all day today. If you are liberal, and you want to know why your worldview is a loser, look no further than the gratuitous insults towards Anheuser Bush for running this ad. Nothing wrong with AB spending $2.4 million to honor the troops who make sure these insults can continue. If this is pandering, I'd much rather they pander to our fine troops and not to the base instincts of all of us.
Anheuser-Busch A gauzy valentine to American troops, which ended with the Anheuser-Busch corporate logo superimposed on screen, was touching, but some viewers may have wondered whether "Busch" had been misspelled.
Watch the great ad here.
I have been reading some of the snide comments around the internet all day today. If you are liberal, and you want to know why your worldview is a loser, look no further than the gratuitous insults towards Anheuser Bush for running this ad. Nothing wrong with AB spending $2.4 million to honor the troops who make sure these insults can continue. If this is pandering, I'd much rather they pander to our fine troops and not to the base instincts of all of us.
Sunday, February 06, 2005
Congratulations to the Patriots
What can I say? The Patriots are a great team and, frankly, what I hate most about them is that there is nothing to hate about them. Their win was no walkover like all the so-called "geniuses" said. The Eagles made them earn it, and the Patriots surely did. Congratulations to them. (Although I am tempted to say the Eagles really beat themselves)
Some quick thoughts:
- I am very proud of McNabb despite that I thought he played with ZERO urgency in the last 5 minutes. His head was, for some reason, just not in the game like it should have been. He played some real dumb football in the 4th quarter. I hope he learns from it and gets the Eagles back next year.
- How about Terrell Owens? 9 catches for 122 yards. He made some great plays, and deserves a lot of credit for busting his ass to get back for this game.
- I wish Brian Westbrook would have been used more effectively.
- Freddie Mitchell will be gone real soon. I hope they cut him this week.
- I'm too down to talk anymore about the game.
- That commercial for the Ford Mustang convertible taht had the frozen guy was awful. I thought I was watching a scene from Goodfellas.
- The Anheuser-Busch commercial where people clapped for the troops was a smart way to spend $2.4 million. Nice work.
- I loved the Mastercard commercial that had Mr. Clean doing the dishes. Brilliant.
- I am the only one disgusted by that Quizno's baby?
- I thought the AmeriQuest "don't judge too quickly" spots were quite effective. if I were borderline creditwise to get a mortgage, I'd call them tomorrow morning after seeing that. I'd bet a lot of people will being calling them this week.
- At least I am not crying like I did 24 years ago when they lost in the Super Bowl to the Raiders. Of course, I was 9 years old then.
- I have a lot more sympathy for Buffalo Bills fans than I did 10 years ago.
- Bill Clinton is as much of a weasel as he ever was. Did you see him wiggle out of picking a team? If you listened to his "prediction," no matter what happened he could say he was right. Scumbag.
Some quick thoughts:
- I am very proud of McNabb despite that I thought he played with ZERO urgency in the last 5 minutes. His head was, for some reason, just not in the game like it should have been. He played some real dumb football in the 4th quarter. I hope he learns from it and gets the Eagles back next year.
- How about Terrell Owens? 9 catches for 122 yards. He made some great plays, and deserves a lot of credit for busting his ass to get back for this game.
- I wish Brian Westbrook would have been used more effectively.
- Freddie Mitchell will be gone real soon. I hope they cut him this week.
- I'm too down to talk anymore about the game.
- That commercial for the Ford Mustang convertible taht had the frozen guy was awful. I thought I was watching a scene from Goodfellas.
- The Anheuser-Busch commercial where people clapped for the troops was a smart way to spend $2.4 million. Nice work.
- I loved the Mastercard commercial that had Mr. Clean doing the dishes. Brilliant.
- I am the only one disgusted by that Quizno's baby?
- I thought the AmeriQuest "don't judge too quickly" spots were quite effective. if I were borderline creditwise to get a mortgage, I'd call them tomorrow morning after seeing that. I'd bet a lot of people will being calling them this week.
- At least I am not crying like I did 24 years ago when they lost in the Super Bowl to the Raiders. Of course, I was 9 years old then.
- I have a lot more sympathy for Buffalo Bills fans than I did 10 years ago.
- Bill Clinton is as much of a weasel as he ever was. Did you see him wiggle out of picking a team? If you listened to his "prediction," no matter what happened he could say he was right. Scumbag.
Saturday, February 05, 2005
Super Bowl XXXIX
Super Bowl Sunday is here, and I have waited 24 years for this day. I really think the Eagles can win, but I am realistic about how good the Patriots are. The way I respect the Patriots reminds me of a scene in the movie Commando where some tinpot wannabe dictator played by Dan Hedaya said to Bennett, "It is you that is afraid, Mr. Bennett. YOU are afraid of Matrix." Bennett replied, "Of course. I'm smart."
Very few of the so-called "experts" aren't giving the Eagles a chance. (See here, here, and here)
Some of the predictions are ridiculous. Some dope named Michael Silver has the Patriots winning 45-21. Merrill Hoge has the Pats winning big. My favorite ESPN dope Sean Salsbury, who picked the Eagles to lose to both the Vikings and the Falcons, now calls his Patriots' pick a "no-brainer," which is interesting terminology from a guy with no brain. (He really sucked when he played for the Vikings, too) Have they actually watched one game the Eagles played this year? They only lost one game, in week 9 to Pittsburgh. (The last 2 don't count, they played their 2nd and 3rd string) After the Pittsburgh loss, the Eagles made some adjustments and lowered the average rushing yards given up by nearly 50 a game! The Eagles defense is no joke, and if anyone thinks the Patriots will walk up and down the field, they are sadly mistaken.
This past week seems like deja vu all over again. The entire week before the Falcons game, all I heard about was "Vick, Vick, Vick" and how he was going to be unstoppable. We all know how that turned out. Now, unlike those so-called windbags who always go with which way the wind is blowing that moment, I will gove you a real honest analysis why the Eagles can win:
History: Remember when the Packers were going for their 2nd straight Super Bowl win over the Broncos? I sure do. They were 11-point favorites and all the geniuses who perform fellatio on Favre every chance they get kept saying, "the new Packers' dynasty" and how the Packers could not lose. Well, that dynsaty talk ended real quick when the Broncos did win.
And, when the Redskins were going for their 2nd straight title against the Raiders in Super Bowl XVIII. The Redskins were big favorites and "even better than the team that won the year before." After losing 38-9, that was that for the Redskins.
Honest analysis: Jeremiah Trotter, who made the Pro Bowl even though he only got the starting job in mid-season, is an animal. Not only is he playing to win the Super Bowl, perhaps only Tom Brady has more $$$ at stake tomorrow than Trotter does. This year, Trotter played on a 1-year deal for the league minimum. If he plays tomorrow like he did against the Vikings, like a man possessed, he stands to reap a HUGE contract from someone. Watch his play reflect that.
The Eagles Secondary - There are 3 Pro Bowlers back there, and many say Sheldon Brown deserved to go too. This certainly isn't the banged-up Pittsburgh secondary or the pathetic Indianapolis secondary that Brady is facing. He won't be completing 60-yard bombs to Deion Branch against those guys.
Turnovers - Donovan McNabb simply does not throw interceptions (only 8 all year, while throwing 31 TDs), and the Eagles hardly fumble. The Patriots cannot depend on the Eagles turning over the ball like the Steelers and Colts did. They aren't getting 3 picks from McNabb like they did from the rookie Roethlisberger.
McNabb - Would have been a serious MVP candidate had Manning not locked up the award by the middle of November. Never has he been more accurate, even without T.O. And, even though McNabb has basically given up running, in this game he'll do whatever he has to to win it. Do not be surprised if McNabb runs for 75 yards or more, or has a 40-yard run on a third and long. There has been some much crown given to Brady, it has been ridiculous. Some of the geniuses who ridiculously hyperbolize everything are already saying that Brady is better than Montana! Give me a break!! Even if the Patriots win, Brady still hasn't surpassed Montana. How they could honestly say Brady is better than Montana, before this game has been played I'll never understand. And, while the national media has been blowing Brady, all I keep reading is how McNabb is the 3rd African-American quarterback to start in a Super Bowl.
The Freak Jevon Kearse - He will dominate Patriots right tackle Brandon Gorin, and will be even better than he was against the Falcons. You will see the isolation shots all day.
Special teams - The Eagles are much, much better than the Patriots in this area. The Patriots won't get many big plays here. Vinatieri is as good as it gets, but so is David Akers. Pretty much a wash there.
Coaching staff - While Belichek, Crennel, and Weis are as good as it gets, the trio of Reid, Johnson, and Childress are no joke either. No one gives Reid any due because he is perhaps the most boring interview outside of the NHL anyone could ever see. The unsung hero here is defensive coordinator Jim Johnson. While the media says little about him, the Eagles brass sure understand his worth, because he gets paid head coach money for being a coordinator. Let me put it to you like this: I have been a huge Eagles fan for nearly 30 years (I am 33) and I could not pick Jim Johnson out of a police lineup, that is how low-profile he is. By the end of this game, everyone will know who he is.
No-name Eagles to watch: Keith Adams, Derrick Burgess, and Sam Rayburn on defense, and L.J. Smith and Greg Lewis on offense. Just remember I said that.
In sum, if you think this is going to be a blowout, well forget it. The Eagles are being overlooked more than any team who made the Super Bowl in years. The gutless experts who are afraid to say anything that goes against the convential wisdom are willfully blind to how good this Eagles team really is, instead relying on false indicators like how awful the NFC was this year, the Patriots are more experienced, and Belichek is a Lombardi-esque genius.
The Eagles are going to win.
Prediction: Eagles 23 Patriots 17 MVP - Donovan McNabb
Go Birds!! E-A-G-L-E-S....EAGLES!!!
Emily and I are ready for kickoff!!
Oh, and here's Emily watching ESPN with me tonight:
Very few of the so-called "experts" aren't giving the Eagles a chance. (See here, here, and here)
Some of the predictions are ridiculous. Some dope named Michael Silver has the Patriots winning 45-21. Merrill Hoge has the Pats winning big. My favorite ESPN dope Sean Salsbury, who picked the Eagles to lose to both the Vikings and the Falcons, now calls his Patriots' pick a "no-brainer," which is interesting terminology from a guy with no brain. (He really sucked when he played for the Vikings, too) Have they actually watched one game the Eagles played this year? They only lost one game, in week 9 to Pittsburgh. (The last 2 don't count, they played their 2nd and 3rd string) After the Pittsburgh loss, the Eagles made some adjustments and lowered the average rushing yards given up by nearly 50 a game! The Eagles defense is no joke, and if anyone thinks the Patriots will walk up and down the field, they are sadly mistaken.
This past week seems like deja vu all over again. The entire week before the Falcons game, all I heard about was "Vick, Vick, Vick" and how he was going to be unstoppable. We all know how that turned out. Now, unlike those so-called windbags who always go with which way the wind is blowing that moment, I will gove you a real honest analysis why the Eagles can win:
History: Remember when the Packers were going for their 2nd straight Super Bowl win over the Broncos? I sure do. They were 11-point favorites and all the geniuses who perform fellatio on Favre every chance they get kept saying, "the new Packers' dynasty" and how the Packers could not lose. Well, that dynsaty talk ended real quick when the Broncos did win.
And, when the Redskins were going for their 2nd straight title against the Raiders in Super Bowl XVIII. The Redskins were big favorites and "even better than the team that won the year before." After losing 38-9, that was that for the Redskins.
Honest analysis: Jeremiah Trotter, who made the Pro Bowl even though he only got the starting job in mid-season, is an animal. Not only is he playing to win the Super Bowl, perhaps only Tom Brady has more $$$ at stake tomorrow than Trotter does. This year, Trotter played on a 1-year deal for the league minimum. If he plays tomorrow like he did against the Vikings, like a man possessed, he stands to reap a HUGE contract from someone. Watch his play reflect that.
The Eagles Secondary - There are 3 Pro Bowlers back there, and many say Sheldon Brown deserved to go too. This certainly isn't the banged-up Pittsburgh secondary or the pathetic Indianapolis secondary that Brady is facing. He won't be completing 60-yard bombs to Deion Branch against those guys.
Turnovers - Donovan McNabb simply does not throw interceptions (only 8 all year, while throwing 31 TDs), and the Eagles hardly fumble. The Patriots cannot depend on the Eagles turning over the ball like the Steelers and Colts did. They aren't getting 3 picks from McNabb like they did from the rookie Roethlisberger.
McNabb - Would have been a serious MVP candidate had Manning not locked up the award by the middle of November. Never has he been more accurate, even without T.O. And, even though McNabb has basically given up running, in this game he'll do whatever he has to to win it. Do not be surprised if McNabb runs for 75 yards or more, or has a 40-yard run on a third and long. There has been some much crown given to Brady, it has been ridiculous. Some of the geniuses who ridiculously hyperbolize everything are already saying that Brady is better than Montana! Give me a break!! Even if the Patriots win, Brady still hasn't surpassed Montana. How they could honestly say Brady is better than Montana, before this game has been played I'll never understand. And, while the national media has been blowing Brady, all I keep reading is how McNabb is the 3rd African-American quarterback to start in a Super Bowl.
The Freak Jevon Kearse - He will dominate Patriots right tackle Brandon Gorin, and will be even better than he was against the Falcons. You will see the isolation shots all day.
Special teams - The Eagles are much, much better than the Patriots in this area. The Patriots won't get many big plays here. Vinatieri is as good as it gets, but so is David Akers. Pretty much a wash there.
Coaching staff - While Belichek, Crennel, and Weis are as good as it gets, the trio of Reid, Johnson, and Childress are no joke either. No one gives Reid any due because he is perhaps the most boring interview outside of the NHL anyone could ever see. The unsung hero here is defensive coordinator Jim Johnson. While the media says little about him, the Eagles brass sure understand his worth, because he gets paid head coach money for being a coordinator. Let me put it to you like this: I have been a huge Eagles fan for nearly 30 years (I am 33) and I could not pick Jim Johnson out of a police lineup, that is how low-profile he is. By the end of this game, everyone will know who he is.
No-name Eagles to watch: Keith Adams, Derrick Burgess, and Sam Rayburn on defense, and L.J. Smith and Greg Lewis on offense. Just remember I said that.
In sum, if you think this is going to be a blowout, well forget it. The Eagles are being overlooked more than any team who made the Super Bowl in years. The gutless experts who are afraid to say anything that goes against the convential wisdom are willfully blind to how good this Eagles team really is, instead relying on false indicators like how awful the NFC was this year, the Patriots are more experienced, and Belichek is a Lombardi-esque genius.
The Eagles are going to win.
Prediction: Eagles 23 Patriots 17 MVP - Donovan McNabb
Go Birds!! E-A-G-L-E-S....EAGLES!!!
Emily and I are ready for kickoff!!
Oh, and here's Emily watching ESPN with me tonight:
Friday, February 04, 2005
This has to be...
...the smartest thing that Ed Asner has said in years:
Ed Asner, actor: "Philadelphia, 21-14. I think it's Donovan McNabb's turn, therefore right or wrong, I pick the Philadelphia Eagles because every dog has his day."
Ed Asner, actor: "Philadelphia, 21-14. I think it's Donovan McNabb's turn, therefore right or wrong, I pick the Philadelphia Eagles because every dog has his day."
Super Bowl
As you know, I have been a lifelong Eagles fan and I want them to win on Sunday. I will be posting a bunch of Super Bowl items this weekend, but in the meantime, I want your prediction for Sunday. Please include your guess of the final score. Patriots fans welcome of course. (That means you Rudy from Maine, Eric the VP, and he guy from mASS BACKWARDS).
Go Birds!!!
Go Birds!!!
Wednesday, February 02, 2005
How appropriate
I am watching the replay of the part of the SOTU that I missed, and while Bush talked about not having judges legislate from the bench, they cut to Stephen Breyer. Nice.
AP Tomfoolery
Look at this headline from the AP:
Only One Side Told in Bush Soc. Sec. Pitch
Gee, I didn't know the President was supposed to push the Democrat plan (rather, lack of one) too. Silly me.
Only One Side Told in Bush Soc. Sec. Pitch
Gee, I didn't know the President was supposed to push the Democrat plan (rather, lack of one) too. Silly me.
State of the Union
Bush was top-notch tonight. I love that he openly threatened Syria and Iran, and I thought he made a terrific case for Social Security reform. And, whoever thought to have the parents of that fine soldier we lost hug the Iraqi woman whose father was murdered by Saddam should have his/her pay doubled. All in one scene, America saw the results of the hard work and sacrifice of our fine men and women in the military. It was quite touching.
Bush was strong, confident, and a real leader tonight. On the other hand, just look at what the Democrats have to offer in response: That dope Harry Reid and that dunce Nancy Pelosi. They were embarrassing.
By the way, did Nancy Pelosi really say that Bush has done nothing to keep our homeland safe for the past 3 years?
God Bless America, and thank God for freedom.
Bush was strong, confident, and a real leader tonight. On the other hand, just look at what the Democrats have to offer in response: That dope Harry Reid and that dunce Nancy Pelosi. They were embarrassing.
By the way, did Nancy Pelosi really say that Bush has done nothing to keep our homeland safe for the past 3 years?
God Bless America, and thank God for freedom.
I never expected this headline
Dems Criticize Bush on State of the Union
And he hasn't even given it yet. Why wait for the inevitable, I guess.
And he hasn't even given it yet. Why wait for the inevitable, I guess.
Tuesday, February 01, 2005
Laugh of the day
This USA Today editorial is much too silly to take seriously:
Perks embarrass the bench
Judges accept gifts and trips, undermining public confidence.
Federal judges and Supreme Court justices may soon have to learn to “just say no.”
Pressure is mounting for new rules that would ban expensive gifts and limit resort trips taken under the guise of education — perks some judges have come to enjoy.
You already know who is coming up next.
In recent years, hundreds of judges have taken “educational” trips to posh retreats bankrolled by groups that have strong interests in judicial rulings. The gift-giving goes all the way to the Supreme Court. Justice Clarence Thomas, for example, accepted tires worth $1,200 and a historic Bible worth $19,000.
I don't know about the tires, but the Bible once belonged to Frederick Douglass so I don't know how they put a $19,000 price tag on it. It sure seems priceless to me, and I see absolutely nothing wrong with someone giving that to Thomas. After all, Frederick Douglass would want a man like Thomas to have it.
And, as expected, only one other justice is mentioned. Guess who?
In January 2004, Justice Antonin Scalia accepted a plane ride aboard Vice President Cheney's jet to go duck hunting with him at a time when a case involving Cheney was before the court. Scalia refused to withdraw from the case. He later ruled in favor of Cheney. Unlike federal judges, who have a code of conduct, each Supreme Court justice is free to decide how the ethics rules apply.
And then it is back to Thomas.
Since 1998, Thomas has accepted $42,000 in gifts, the highest amount among all of the justices, according to an analysis of disclosure forms by the Los Angeles Times.
And then we get the qualifiers before any other justices are mentioned.
Other justices have accepted club memberships, plane rides and cash awards that they've turned over to charities. For example, Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg had a $100,000 award from a non-profit foundation divvied up among favorite organizations.
Of course they make Ginsburg look like Bob Hope. If this were an honest piece, it would discuss all the other "honorarium" that all the justices get. And I mean all of them see Europe every summer and don't reach into their wallets once. And I say, so what? There is not one justice today that could possibly have their credibility questioned honestly. Really, Scalia ruled for Cheney over a duck hunt? Please. How about Breyer, ruling on sentencing guidelines he helped draft? Where was the outcry over that? There was none, AS THERE SHOULD NOT HAVE BEEN.
I may not like Breyer's, Ginsburg's, or Steven's jurisprudence, but I would NEVER question their ethics. How could I? We are lucky to have 9 justices who are above reproach ethically, even if we get mad at some of their rulings. Perhaps the dopes who write editorials like this should show the same decency and respect.
Perks embarrass the bench
Judges accept gifts and trips, undermining public confidence.
Federal judges and Supreme Court justices may soon have to learn to “just say no.”
Pressure is mounting for new rules that would ban expensive gifts and limit resort trips taken under the guise of education — perks some judges have come to enjoy.
You already know who is coming up next.
In recent years, hundreds of judges have taken “educational” trips to posh retreats bankrolled by groups that have strong interests in judicial rulings. The gift-giving goes all the way to the Supreme Court. Justice Clarence Thomas, for example, accepted tires worth $1,200 and a historic Bible worth $19,000.
I don't know about the tires, but the Bible once belonged to Frederick Douglass so I don't know how they put a $19,000 price tag on it. It sure seems priceless to me, and I see absolutely nothing wrong with someone giving that to Thomas. After all, Frederick Douglass would want a man like Thomas to have it.
And, as expected, only one other justice is mentioned. Guess who?
In January 2004, Justice Antonin Scalia accepted a plane ride aboard Vice President Cheney's jet to go duck hunting with him at a time when a case involving Cheney was before the court. Scalia refused to withdraw from the case. He later ruled in favor of Cheney. Unlike federal judges, who have a code of conduct, each Supreme Court justice is free to decide how the ethics rules apply.
And then it is back to Thomas.
Since 1998, Thomas has accepted $42,000 in gifts, the highest amount among all of the justices, according to an analysis of disclosure forms by the Los Angeles Times.
And then we get the qualifiers before any other justices are mentioned.
Other justices have accepted club memberships, plane rides and cash awards that they've turned over to charities. For example, Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg had a $100,000 award from a non-profit foundation divvied up among favorite organizations.
Of course they make Ginsburg look like Bob Hope. If this were an honest piece, it would discuss all the other "honorarium" that all the justices get. And I mean all of them see Europe every summer and don't reach into their wallets once. And I say, so what? There is not one justice today that could possibly have their credibility questioned honestly. Really, Scalia ruled for Cheney over a duck hunt? Please. How about Breyer, ruling on sentencing guidelines he helped draft? Where was the outcry over that? There was none, AS THERE SHOULD NOT HAVE BEEN.
I may not like Breyer's, Ginsburg's, or Steven's jurisprudence, but I would NEVER question their ethics. How could I? We are lucky to have 9 justices who are above reproach ethically, even if we get mad at some of their rulings. Perhaps the dopes who write editorials like this should show the same decency and respect.
This is brilliant
My opinion on abortion has never changed. I think it should be legal for the first 3 months, and that's it. I personally hate it, and I think that many women (and men too) are emotionally scarred for life after going through with an abortion. The far-left groups like NARAL never seem to want to discuss the emotional dimension, and they always fight tooth and nail to keep women ill-formed to the point where their "choice" really isn't an informed one. I read this story, and I love the idea of groups going after the hearts of women instead of fighting a losing battle in court.
Church Groups Turn to Sonogram to Turn Women From Abortions
BOWIE, Md., Jan. 26 - Sixteen months ago, Andrea Brown, 24 years old and unmarried, was desperate for an abortion, fearing the disappointment of her parents and the humiliation she might face.
While frantically searching the telephone book one day, she came across the Bowie Crofton Pregnancy Center and Medical Clinic, a church-financed organization that provides counseling and education about sexual abstinence. The receptionist told Ms. Brown that the clinic did not perform abortions or make referrals but that she could come in for an ultrasound to make sure her six-and-a-half-week pregnancy was viable. When she did, everything changed.
"When I had the sonogram and heard the heartbeat - and for me a heartbeat symbolizes life - after that there was no way I could do it," Ms. Brown said recently as she revisited the clinic and watched her daughter, Elora, now 9 months old, play at her feet.
Although Ms. Brown doesn't really say it in the article, I guarantee you that she is quite happy that she had her daughter. Of course, the abortion industry (a very profitable one lest you forget) doesn't like the competition.
Supporters of abortion rights say that a large number of the centers lure women by leaving the impression that they do, in fact, perform abortions and subsequently do not give young women a full picture of their choices.
"Generally, their treatment of women who come in is coercive," said Susanne Martinez, vice president of public policy at the Planned Parenthood Federation of America. "From the time they walk in to these centers, they are inundated with information that is propaganda and that has one goal in mind. And that is to have women continue with their pregnancies."
Propaganda? Is this dunce for real? They tell the woman there is a living being inside of them, and show them the proof. And, what exactly is wrong with women continuing their pregnancies? No pro-abortion person has ever explained that one to me. What you need to realize is that Planned Parenthood's goal is for women to NOT continue their pregnancies. I think it is quite clear who holds the moral high ground here.
Groups that favor abortion rights, however, see the technique as a pressure tactic. Nancy Keenan, president of Naral Pro-Choice America, said that while ultrasounds were legitimate medical care for pregnant women, "they shouldn't be misused to badger or coerce women by these so-called crisis pregnancy centers."
"With or without ultrasound," Ms. Keenan said, "women understand the moral dimensions of their choices."
I'm sure they do. Nothing wrong with giving them a chance to fully understand the consequences of their decision.
I've always said that many women regret having an abortion but no woman regrets not having one. I love this idea, and pray that is expands exponentially.
Of course, the New York Times has to make Ms. Brown look bad (not to mention prenancy in general, with this parting shot:
Ms. Brown said she was trying to practice abstinence when she got pregnant and adds, "In the future, I plan to remain practicing abstinence till I get married." She looked at her daughter still playing on the floor and said with a laugh, "I have a constant reminder of what can happen if I don't."
As if being reminded by looking at a little baby is a bad thing. By the way, how does one try to practice abstinence and fail?
Church Groups Turn to Sonogram to Turn Women From Abortions
BOWIE, Md., Jan. 26 - Sixteen months ago, Andrea Brown, 24 years old and unmarried, was desperate for an abortion, fearing the disappointment of her parents and the humiliation she might face.
While frantically searching the telephone book one day, she came across the Bowie Crofton Pregnancy Center and Medical Clinic, a church-financed organization that provides counseling and education about sexual abstinence. The receptionist told Ms. Brown that the clinic did not perform abortions or make referrals but that she could come in for an ultrasound to make sure her six-and-a-half-week pregnancy was viable. When she did, everything changed.
"When I had the sonogram and heard the heartbeat - and for me a heartbeat symbolizes life - after that there was no way I could do it," Ms. Brown said recently as she revisited the clinic and watched her daughter, Elora, now 9 months old, play at her feet.
Although Ms. Brown doesn't really say it in the article, I guarantee you that she is quite happy that she had her daughter. Of course, the abortion industry (a very profitable one lest you forget) doesn't like the competition.
Supporters of abortion rights say that a large number of the centers lure women by leaving the impression that they do, in fact, perform abortions and subsequently do not give young women a full picture of their choices.
"Generally, their treatment of women who come in is coercive," said Susanne Martinez, vice president of public policy at the Planned Parenthood Federation of America. "From the time they walk in to these centers, they are inundated with information that is propaganda and that has one goal in mind. And that is to have women continue with their pregnancies."
Propaganda? Is this dunce for real? They tell the woman there is a living being inside of them, and show them the proof. And, what exactly is wrong with women continuing their pregnancies? No pro-abortion person has ever explained that one to me. What you need to realize is that Planned Parenthood's goal is for women to NOT continue their pregnancies. I think it is quite clear who holds the moral high ground here.
Groups that favor abortion rights, however, see the technique as a pressure tactic. Nancy Keenan, president of Naral Pro-Choice America, said that while ultrasounds were legitimate medical care for pregnant women, "they shouldn't be misused to badger or coerce women by these so-called crisis pregnancy centers."
"With or without ultrasound," Ms. Keenan said, "women understand the moral dimensions of their choices."
I'm sure they do. Nothing wrong with giving them a chance to fully understand the consequences of their decision.
I've always said that many women regret having an abortion but no woman regrets not having one. I love this idea, and pray that is expands exponentially.
Of course, the New York Times has to make Ms. Brown look bad (not to mention prenancy in general, with this parting shot:
Ms. Brown said she was trying to practice abstinence when she got pregnant and adds, "In the future, I plan to remain practicing abstinence till I get married." She looked at her daughter still playing on the floor and said with a laugh, "I have a constant reminder of what can happen if I don't."
As if being reminded by looking at a little baby is a bad thing. By the way, how does one try to practice abstinence and fail?
The sad state of the terrorists
Thanks to George W. Bush, this is what the terrorists are reduced to.
That is beyond hilarious. Perhaps Dan Rather and Mary Mapes are moonlighting. Seriously, the terrorists are becoming a punch line. Perhaps you liberals should start asking yourself the same question that this liberal columnist did, "What if Bush has been right about Iraq all along?" Or, perhaps too you might start to realize that Bush isn't creating terrorists, he's eliminating them.
(By the way, I'm taking action on how long before Karl Rove is blamed for this)
(And this is hilarious too)
And this from Instapundit:
That is beyond hilarious. Perhaps Dan Rather and Mary Mapes are moonlighting. Seriously, the terrorists are becoming a punch line. Perhaps you liberals should start asking yourself the same question that this liberal columnist did, "What if Bush has been right about Iraq all along?" Or, perhaps too you might start to realize that Bush isn't creating terrorists, he's eliminating them.
(By the way, I'm taking action on how long before Karl Rove is blamed for this)
(And this is hilarious too)
And this from Instapundit:
Monday, January 31, 2005
A gander at the headlines
Hmmm. Let's see what's going on:
Hillary Clinton faints during speech
or...wait a second...
Sen. Clinton Faints, Later Gives Speech
Which is it? Did she faint during the speech, or did she faint and then give them speech?
"It wasn't as dramatic as it sounds," Clinton said after the 30-minute speech."
Well, CNN is sure trying to turn it into a Shakespearan tragedy:
Upon her return, at about 12:15 p.m., the senator fainted as her staff placed the microphone in front of her, Lenihan said.
Her Secret Service agents quickly surrounded the former first lady, and four people broke her fall, he said.
Oh stop it. I would go "all in" and bet that this is an attention-grabber orchestrated by Hillary. The headlines are all about the Iraqi vote and how good Bush looks today. This is her way of getting some attention off of that. Her fainting reminds me of a wedding a few years ago where I was the DJ. The bride's sister, all of a sudden during dinner, starting choking. It took me about, oh, a 1/2 second to realize she was faking it. If you are choking like she supposedly was, you can't scream, "I'm choking! I'm choking!" That, and a few other clues gave her away. Everyone in the room, you could tell from the vibe afterwards, knew she was full of crap. She was jealous of the attention her sister was getting on her wedding day, that is why she acted out. The same concept applies here with Hillary.
Judge Backs Guantanamo Detainee Challenges
WASHINGTON - The Bush administration must let foreign terror suspects challenge their confinement in U.S. courts, a judge said Monday in a ruling that found unconstitutional the hearing system set up by the Pentagon.
Just look at that. Bush violated the constitutional rights of scumbag terrorists who were fighting out troops in Afghanistan. Astonishing. FDR must be turning over in his grave. Let's take a look at Judge Joyce Hens Green. A Jimmy Carter appointee. I'm shocked!! Shocked I tell you. (Take a look at her picture too. What a beast.)
First Amendment No Big Deal, Students Say
There you have it. Our liberal education system in action.
Sudan Says U.N. Clears Gov't of Genocide
ABUJA, Nigeria - Sudan said Monday that U.N. investigators concluded that genocide was not committed in the country's western Darfur region during a nearly two-year crisis, and the government and rebels committed to reopening peace talks within weeks.
At U.N. headquarters in New York, diplomats confirmed that the report did not find that Sudan committed genocide, but they said it was very critical of Sudanese government actions. The report was expected to be circulated in New York on Tuesday.
Of course the U.N. can't find a genocide. They couldn't find a cactus in Arizona. If they found a genocide, they would be bound to act. They can't be bothered with that. After all, there's no money in it, no way to blame Israel, and they wouldn't want to upset any murderous thugs.
I am going to link to an article about how a Clinton State Department bureaucrat named Christine Shelly dodged a reporter during the Rwanda genocide a decade ago. She could not call it a genocide, because we'd have to act, instead, she said:
Elsner: How would you describe the events taking place in Rwanda?
Shelly: Based on the evidence we have seen from observations on the ground, we have every reason to believe that acts of genocide have occurred in Rwanda.
Elsner: What's the difference between "acts of genocide" and "genocide"?
Shelly: Well, I think the—as you know, there's a legal definition of this ... clearly not all of the killings that have taken place in Rwanda are killings to which you might apply that label ... But as to the distinctions between the words, we're trying to call what we have seen so far as best as we can; and based, again, on the evidence, we have every reason to believe that acts of genocide have occurred.
Elsner: How many acts of genocide does it take to make genocide?
Shelly: Alan, that's just not a question that I'm in a position to answer.
You should see the video. The transcript does not do it justice. This woman looked like a total tool. I am outraged that no one has learned a damn thing from Rwanda. Not a damn thing!
And one more, on a lighter note:
Texas Teens Increased Sex After Abstinence Program
HOUSTON (Reuters) - Abstinence-only sex education programs, a major plank in President Bush's education plan, have had no impact on teenagers' behavior in his home state of Texas, according to a new study.
Despite taking courses emphasizing abstinence-only themes, teenagers in 29 high schools became increasingly sexually active, mirroring the overall state trends, according to the study conducted by researchers at Texas A&M University.
"We didn't see any strong indications that these programs were having an impact in the direction desired," said Dr. Buzz Pruitt, who directed the study.
Yep. All Bush's fault.
Hillary Clinton faints during speech
or...wait a second...
Sen. Clinton Faints, Later Gives Speech
Which is it? Did she faint during the speech, or did she faint and then give them speech?
"It wasn't as dramatic as it sounds," Clinton said after the 30-minute speech."
Well, CNN is sure trying to turn it into a Shakespearan tragedy:
Upon her return, at about 12:15 p.m., the senator fainted as her staff placed the microphone in front of her, Lenihan said.
Her Secret Service agents quickly surrounded the former first lady, and four people broke her fall, he said.
Oh stop it. I would go "all in" and bet that this is an attention-grabber orchestrated by Hillary. The headlines are all about the Iraqi vote and how good Bush looks today. This is her way of getting some attention off of that. Her fainting reminds me of a wedding a few years ago where I was the DJ. The bride's sister, all of a sudden during dinner, starting choking. It took me about, oh, a 1/2 second to realize she was faking it. If you are choking like she supposedly was, you can't scream, "I'm choking! I'm choking!" That, and a few other clues gave her away. Everyone in the room, you could tell from the vibe afterwards, knew she was full of crap. She was jealous of the attention her sister was getting on her wedding day, that is why she acted out. The same concept applies here with Hillary.
Judge Backs Guantanamo Detainee Challenges
WASHINGTON - The Bush administration must let foreign terror suspects challenge their confinement in U.S. courts, a judge said Monday in a ruling that found unconstitutional the hearing system set up by the Pentagon.
Just look at that. Bush violated the constitutional rights of scumbag terrorists who were fighting out troops in Afghanistan. Astonishing. FDR must be turning over in his grave. Let's take a look at Judge Joyce Hens Green. A Jimmy Carter appointee. I'm shocked!! Shocked I tell you. (Take a look at her picture too. What a beast.)
First Amendment No Big Deal, Students Say
There you have it. Our liberal education system in action.
Sudan Says U.N. Clears Gov't of Genocide
ABUJA, Nigeria - Sudan said Monday that U.N. investigators concluded that genocide was not committed in the country's western Darfur region during a nearly two-year crisis, and the government and rebels committed to reopening peace talks within weeks.
At U.N. headquarters in New York, diplomats confirmed that the report did not find that Sudan committed genocide, but they said it was very critical of Sudanese government actions. The report was expected to be circulated in New York on Tuesday.
Of course the U.N. can't find a genocide. They couldn't find a cactus in Arizona. If they found a genocide, they would be bound to act. They can't be bothered with that. After all, there's no money in it, no way to blame Israel, and they wouldn't want to upset any murderous thugs.
I am going to link to an article about how a Clinton State Department bureaucrat named Christine Shelly dodged a reporter during the Rwanda genocide a decade ago. She could not call it a genocide, because we'd have to act, instead, she said:
Elsner: How would you describe the events taking place in Rwanda?
Shelly: Based on the evidence we have seen from observations on the ground, we have every reason to believe that acts of genocide have occurred in Rwanda.
Elsner: What's the difference between "acts of genocide" and "genocide"?
Shelly: Well, I think the—as you know, there's a legal definition of this ... clearly not all of the killings that have taken place in Rwanda are killings to which you might apply that label ... But as to the distinctions between the words, we're trying to call what we have seen so far as best as we can; and based, again, on the evidence, we have every reason to believe that acts of genocide have occurred.
Elsner: How many acts of genocide does it take to make genocide?
Shelly: Alan, that's just not a question that I'm in a position to answer.
You should see the video. The transcript does not do it justice. This woman looked like a total tool. I am outraged that no one has learned a damn thing from Rwanda. Not a damn thing!
And one more, on a lighter note:
Texas Teens Increased Sex After Abstinence Program
HOUSTON (Reuters) - Abstinence-only sex education programs, a major plank in President Bush's education plan, have had no impact on teenagers' behavior in his home state of Texas, according to a new study.
Despite taking courses emphasizing abstinence-only themes, teenagers in 29 high schools became increasingly sexually active, mirroring the overall state trends, according to the study conducted by researchers at Texas A&M University.
"We didn't see any strong indications that these programs were having an impact in the direction desired," said Dr. Buzz Pruitt, who directed the study.
Yep. All Bush's fault.
Sunday, January 30, 2005
And we are supposed to care what they think?
I laughed everytime I heard, during the run-up to the Iraq War, that we should be more respectful of the German opinion. I laughed because I thought it was funny that the country that invented the concept of chemical warfare and the country that streamlined genocide in ways similar to how Henry Ford streamlined automaking was now all of a sudden "a moral authority" who should be listened to. Then today, I read this story from that "socialist paradise."
'If you don't take a job as a prostitute, we can stop your benefits'
A 25-year-old waitress who turned down a job providing "sexual services'' at a brothel in Berlin faces possible cuts to her unemployment benefit under laws introduced this year.
Prostitution was legalised in Germany just over two years ago and brothel owners – who must pay tax and employee health insurance – were granted access to official databases of jobseekers.
The waitress, an unemployed information technology professional, had said that she was willing to work in a bar at night and had worked in a cafe.
She received a letter from the job centre telling her that an employer was interested in her "profile'' and that she should ring them. Only on doing so did the woman, who has not been identified for legal reasons, realise that she was calling a brothel.
Under Germany's welfare reforms, any woman under 55 who has been out of work for more than a year can be forced to take an available job – including in the sex industry – or lose her unemployment benefit. Last month German unemployment rose for the 11th consecutive month to 4.5 million, taking the number out of work to its highest since reunification in 1990.
This is the logical end result of unfettered leftism and the unwillingness to set any sort of public morality standards. Anytime a liberal tells you how wondeful Germany is, tell them about this story.
'If you don't take a job as a prostitute, we can stop your benefits'
A 25-year-old waitress who turned down a job providing "sexual services'' at a brothel in Berlin faces possible cuts to her unemployment benefit under laws introduced this year.
Prostitution was legalised in Germany just over two years ago and brothel owners – who must pay tax and employee health insurance – were granted access to official databases of jobseekers.
The waitress, an unemployed information technology professional, had said that she was willing to work in a bar at night and had worked in a cafe.
She received a letter from the job centre telling her that an employer was interested in her "profile'' and that she should ring them. Only on doing so did the woman, who has not been identified for legal reasons, realise that she was calling a brothel.
Under Germany's welfare reforms, any woman under 55 who has been out of work for more than a year can be forced to take an available job – including in the sex industry – or lose her unemployment benefit. Last month German unemployment rose for the 11th consecutive month to 4.5 million, taking the number out of work to its highest since reunification in 1990.
This is the logical end result of unfettered leftism and the unwillingness to set any sort of public morality standards. Anytime a liberal tells you how wondeful Germany is, tell them about this story.
Iraq Elections are now over
I don't want to minimize the 44 people who died today, as well as the fine British soldiers we lost today, but I am quite happy with how it went. (From what I understand though, 9 of the 44 listed dead were suicide bombers) Even the AP can't hide the positive attitude of the Iraqi people.
Iraq Voters Defy Threats, Boycott Calls
BAGHDAD, Iraq - Iraqis embraced democracy in large numbers Sunday, standing in long lines to vote in defiance of mortar attacks, suicide bombers and boycott calls. Pushed in wheelchairs or carts if they couldn't walk, the elderly, the young and women in veils cast ballots in Iraq's first free election in a half-century.
"We broke a barrier of fear," said Mijm Towirish, an election official.
Uncertain Sunni turnout, a string of insurgent attacks that killed 44 and the crash of a British military plane drove home that chaos in Iraq isn't over yet.
Yet the mere fact the vote went off seemed to ricochet instantly around a world hoping for Arab democracy and fearing Islamic extremism.
"I am doing this because I love my country, and I love the sons of my nation," said Shamal Hekeib, 53, who walked with his wife 20 minutes to a polling station near his Baghdad home.
"We are Arabs, we are not scared and we are not cowards," Hekeib said.
With helicopters flying low and gunfire close by, at least 200 voters stood calmly in line at midday outside one polling station in the heart of Baghdad. Inside, the tight security included at least four body searches, and a ban on lighters, cell phone batteries, cigarette packs and even pens.
The feeling was sometimes festive. One election volunteer escorted a blind man back to his home after he cast his vote. A woman too frail to walk by herself arrived on a cart pushed by a young relative. Entire families showed up in their finest clothes.
Over the next 10 days or so, we will be bombarded with all kinds of stories about election fraud, unfairness, complaints about the ballots, you name it. If you hear any of your liberal friends complain, just say to them, "Hey, sounds like an American-style democracy to me! Iraq must already have a fully functional Democratic Party." Plus, we'll get all kinds of stories like this:
Audit: $9 Billion Unaccounted for in Iraq
I'm sure we'll hear some outrage over this from the same people who couldn't be bothered with the Oil-for-Food scam.
(If you see any ridiculous stories, please e-mail them to me.)
This should be a fun week.
F Ted Kennedy.
Iraq Voters Defy Threats, Boycott Calls
BAGHDAD, Iraq - Iraqis embraced democracy in large numbers Sunday, standing in long lines to vote in defiance of mortar attacks, suicide bombers and boycott calls. Pushed in wheelchairs or carts if they couldn't walk, the elderly, the young and women in veils cast ballots in Iraq's first free election in a half-century.
"We broke a barrier of fear," said Mijm Towirish, an election official.
Uncertain Sunni turnout, a string of insurgent attacks that killed 44 and the crash of a British military plane drove home that chaos in Iraq isn't over yet.
Yet the mere fact the vote went off seemed to ricochet instantly around a world hoping for Arab democracy and fearing Islamic extremism.
"I am doing this because I love my country, and I love the sons of my nation," said Shamal Hekeib, 53, who walked with his wife 20 minutes to a polling station near his Baghdad home.
"We are Arabs, we are not scared and we are not cowards," Hekeib said.
With helicopters flying low and gunfire close by, at least 200 voters stood calmly in line at midday outside one polling station in the heart of Baghdad. Inside, the tight security included at least four body searches, and a ban on lighters, cell phone batteries, cigarette packs and even pens.
The feeling was sometimes festive. One election volunteer escorted a blind man back to his home after he cast his vote. A woman too frail to walk by herself arrived on a cart pushed by a young relative. Entire families showed up in their finest clothes.
Over the next 10 days or so, we will be bombarded with all kinds of stories about election fraud, unfairness, complaints about the ballots, you name it. If you hear any of your liberal friends complain, just say to them, "Hey, sounds like an American-style democracy to me! Iraq must already have a fully functional Democratic Party." Plus, we'll get all kinds of stories like this:
Audit: $9 Billion Unaccounted for in Iraq
I'm sure we'll hear some outrage over this from the same people who couldn't be bothered with the Oil-for-Food scam.
(If you see any ridiculous stories, please e-mail them to me.)
This should be a fun week.
F Ted Kennedy.
Saturday, January 29, 2005
Iraqi elections begin
At this very hour, the polls are opening in Iraq. I will be praying for the success of the elections, with as little violence as possible. And, I will be sure to ignore the naysayers in the media and on the left who hate Bush so much, they want the Iraqi elections to fail. I am confident they will work out just fine, and maybe even better than we will hear about. Here's the two examples why. First, read this story about some photos taken in Iraq. You will understand at the ridiculousness of the media, and the depths to which they will go to hurt the cause in Iraq. You won't know whether to laugh or be outaged.
Second, read this story:
Man drives to Calgary to vote in Iraqi election
CALGARY - An Iraqi-Canadian man from Winnipeg drove 14 hours to Calgary this week to cast a ballot in his homeland's general election.
The polling station in Calgary is one of only three in Canada – the other two are in Ontario.
Hasan al-Hakim says it's important to have a voice in what happens in Iraq. He says he's spent hours trying to convince family who still live in the country – who have faced threats to keep them from voting – how important it is they are heard.
"It's fighting for life. That is the future," al-Hakim says.
If this doesn't inspire you, then nothing will. The Iraqi people want their freedom, and those who went elsewhere to have freedom want it for their homeland. Regardless of what you think of the war or Bush, I hope you will support the Iraqi people on this historic day. They deserve freedom every bit as much as we do.
And Lee has this great story too.
Second, read this story:
Man drives to Calgary to vote in Iraqi election
CALGARY - An Iraqi-Canadian man from Winnipeg drove 14 hours to Calgary this week to cast a ballot in his homeland's general election.
The polling station in Calgary is one of only three in Canada – the other two are in Ontario.
Hasan al-Hakim says it's important to have a voice in what happens in Iraq. He says he's spent hours trying to convince family who still live in the country – who have faced threats to keep them from voting – how important it is they are heard.
"It's fighting for life. That is the future," al-Hakim says.
If this doesn't inspire you, then nothing will. The Iraqi people want their freedom, and those who went elsewhere to have freedom want it for their homeland. Regardless of what you think of the war or Bush, I hope you will support the Iraqi people on this historic day. They deserve freedom every bit as much as we do.
And Lee has this great story too.
Thursday, January 27, 2005
AOL in a dream world
One of the front-page headlines on AOL.com says this:
"Is Bush fueling left-wing radio's recent growth?"
Here's the screen capture:
Funny how the liberal propaganda and the facts never seem to match up. Take a look at what I read just last week in the Philly Inquirer:
Air America apparently is not flying too well in Philly. The liberal talk network's home since Aug. 30 is WHAT-AM (1340), which airs shows by Al Franken (noon to 3 p.m.) and Randi Rhodes (3 to 7 p.m.). Arbitron ratings for fall were released last week. Though specific numbers are not available for Franken's time slot, a check of Rhodes' finds that WHAT's ratings have dropped.
Among total listeners ages 12 and older, the station managed a 0.5 rating in fall 2003; it got a 0.3 this time. The "cume," the cumulative number of weekly listeners, fell from 22,000 to 17,800. By comparison, Sean Hannity and Dom Giordano on talk rival WPHT-AM (1210) had a 4.4 rating and cume of 217,800 weekly listeners; the top afternoon-drive station was WBEB-FM (101.1), with a 7.6 rating and a cume of 441,100.
At its flagship station in New York, Air America finished 24th in the fall.
HAHAHAHAHAHA!!! And, I am quite sure that Jerry Springer will kick ass on radio. After all, everyone watches his TV show just to hear his brillant commentary at the end anyway.
"Is Bush fueling left-wing radio's recent growth?"
Here's the screen capture:
Funny how the liberal propaganda and the facts never seem to match up. Take a look at what I read just last week in the Philly Inquirer:
Air America apparently is not flying too well in Philly. The liberal talk network's home since Aug. 30 is WHAT-AM (1340), which airs shows by Al Franken (noon to 3 p.m.) and Randi Rhodes (3 to 7 p.m.). Arbitron ratings for fall were released last week. Though specific numbers are not available for Franken's time slot, a check of Rhodes' finds that WHAT's ratings have dropped.
Among total listeners ages 12 and older, the station managed a 0.5 rating in fall 2003; it got a 0.3 this time. The "cume," the cumulative number of weekly listeners, fell from 22,000 to 17,800. By comparison, Sean Hannity and Dom Giordano on talk rival WPHT-AM (1210) had a 4.4 rating and cume of 217,800 weekly listeners; the top afternoon-drive station was WBEB-FM (101.1), with a 7.6 rating and a cume of 441,100.
At its flagship station in New York, Air America finished 24th in the fall.
HAHAHAHAHAHA!!! And, I am quite sure that Jerry Springer will kick ass on radio. After all, everyone watches his TV show just to hear his brillant commentary at the end anyway.
This is a big deal?
AP: Gitmo Soldier Details Sexual Tactics
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico - Female interrogators tried to break Muslim detainees at the U.S. prison camp in Guantanamo Bay by sexual touching, wearing a miniskirt and thong underwear and in one case smearing a Saudi man's face with fake menstrual blood, according to an insider's written account.
A draft manuscript obtained by The Associated Press is classified as secret pending a Pentagon review for a planned book that details ways the U.S. military used women as part of tougher physical and psychological interrogation tactics to get terror suspects to talk.
One female civilian contractor used a special outfit that included a miniskirt, thong underwear and a bra during late-night interrogations with prisoners, mostly Muslim men who consider it taboo to have close contact with women who aren't their wives.
Beginning in April 2003, "there hung a short skirt and thong underwear on the hook on the back of the door" of one interrogation team's office, he writes. "Later I learned that this outfit was used for interrogations by one of the female civilian contractors ... on a team which conducted interrogations in the middle of the night on Saudi men who were refusing to talk."
How much money is spent each year in Las Vegas to get treated like this? Some enterprising patriot should open up a strip joint and call it Camp X-Ray.
Strict interpretation of Islamic law forbids physical contact with women other than a man's wife or family, and with any menstruating women, who are considered unclean.
Don't they mean other than his "13 or so" wives?
Call me a heartless bastard, but I really don't give a damn about what is being done down there. I might if I could hear Paul Johnson or Nick Berg tell me how bad they were mistreated, but I can't since they were beheaded.
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico - Female interrogators tried to break Muslim detainees at the U.S. prison camp in Guantanamo Bay by sexual touching, wearing a miniskirt and thong underwear and in one case smearing a Saudi man's face with fake menstrual blood, according to an insider's written account.
A draft manuscript obtained by The Associated Press is classified as secret pending a Pentagon review for a planned book that details ways the U.S. military used women as part of tougher physical and psychological interrogation tactics to get terror suspects to talk.
One female civilian contractor used a special outfit that included a miniskirt, thong underwear and a bra during late-night interrogations with prisoners, mostly Muslim men who consider it taboo to have close contact with women who aren't their wives.
Beginning in April 2003, "there hung a short skirt and thong underwear on the hook on the back of the door" of one interrogation team's office, he writes. "Later I learned that this outfit was used for interrogations by one of the female civilian contractors ... on a team which conducted interrogations in the middle of the night on Saudi men who were refusing to talk."
How much money is spent each year in Las Vegas to get treated like this? Some enterprising patriot should open up a strip joint and call it Camp X-Ray.
Strict interpretation of Islamic law forbids physical contact with women other than a man's wife or family, and with any menstruating women, who are considered unclean.
Don't they mean other than his "13 or so" wives?
Call me a heartless bastard, but I really don't give a damn about what is being done down there. I might if I could hear Paul Johnson or Nick Berg tell me how bad they were mistreated, but I can't since they were beheaded.
They act like we made it up
More hijinks from our friends to the South:
U.S. Travel Alert Irritates Mexico
MEXICO CITY - A U.S. warning about violence along the border in Mexico created unexpected friction with a crucial neighbor Thursday, just as new Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and other new members of President Bush's team are starting to take office.
The blunt warning was issued because of an upswing of killings and kidnappings linked to battles between drug gangs in towns along the Mexican side of the border, but Mexico's top Cabinet officer, Interior Secretary Santiago Creel, insisted that the warning "went too far."
"Why didn't they say anything a week ago when I was in that meeting with the secretary of homeland security?" Creel said in a nationally televised interview, referring to a meeting with Tom Ridge on Jan. 17 in Calexico, Calif. "He didn't express any concern to me. On the contrary," Ridge praised Mexico's actions, Creel added.
The outburst of Mexican irritation came on the day that Rice took over and as the Bush Administration is preparing to change leadership at the Homeland Security and Justice Departments, which deal with issues of drug trafficking, immigration and security along the long Mexican border.
U.S. State Department spokesman Richard Boucher defended the warning Thursday, saying 27 U.S. citizens have been abducted in Mexico's northern border region over the past six months and two have been killed. He said it was important to inform Americans about the security situation along the border.
Perhaps if they got this upset over the spate of kidnappings in their country, which has been going on for a long time, the kidnappings would stop and there would be no reason for us to issue a warning like this.
Here at law school, there are several students who are deeply involved with an issue that is very important, the unreal amount of women who go missing or are just killed. Often, these women are found along trails, and no one has idea who they are. A fellow 1L explained her involvement with the issue to me a few weeks ago. I was stunned into silence by what goes on only a few hundreds miles from where I sit. After hearing that, I have little tolerance for the bitching of Mexican officials about travel warnings. They need to take care of their own house before they condemn ours.
U.S. Travel Alert Irritates Mexico
MEXICO CITY - A U.S. warning about violence along the border in Mexico created unexpected friction with a crucial neighbor Thursday, just as new Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and other new members of President Bush's team are starting to take office.
The blunt warning was issued because of an upswing of killings and kidnappings linked to battles between drug gangs in towns along the Mexican side of the border, but Mexico's top Cabinet officer, Interior Secretary Santiago Creel, insisted that the warning "went too far."
"Why didn't they say anything a week ago when I was in that meeting with the secretary of homeland security?" Creel said in a nationally televised interview, referring to a meeting with Tom Ridge on Jan. 17 in Calexico, Calif. "He didn't express any concern to me. On the contrary," Ridge praised Mexico's actions, Creel added.
The outburst of Mexican irritation came on the day that Rice took over and as the Bush Administration is preparing to change leadership at the Homeland Security and Justice Departments, which deal with issues of drug trafficking, immigration and security along the long Mexican border.
U.S. State Department spokesman Richard Boucher defended the warning Thursday, saying 27 U.S. citizens have been abducted in Mexico's northern border region over the past six months and two have been killed. He said it was important to inform Americans about the security situation along the border.
Perhaps if they got this upset over the spate of kidnappings in their country, which has been going on for a long time, the kidnappings would stop and there would be no reason for us to issue a warning like this.
Here at law school, there are several students who are deeply involved with an issue that is very important, the unreal amount of women who go missing or are just killed. Often, these women are found along trails, and no one has idea who they are. A fellow 1L explained her involvement with the issue to me a few weeks ago. I was stunned into silence by what goes on only a few hundreds miles from where I sit. After hearing that, I have little tolerance for the bitching of Mexican officials about travel warnings. They need to take care of their own house before they condemn ours.
Wish I knew about this before
A blog called The Ville, which I only discovered today, is going out of business. I spent a while reading the archives, and wish I found this guy before. You just know that he is my type of guy when you read this part of his goodbye post:
A big F.U. to PETA, ALF, ELF, Louisvillepeace.org, Ted Rall, Sean Penn, Heather Mallick, MoveOn.org, The ACLU, Kofi Annan and The UN, International ANSWER, Osama bin Laden, Jimmy Carter, The AP, The NYT, Dan Rather and CBS, Reuters, Al Franken, Janeane Garofalo, Wesley Clark, Gerhard Schroeder, John Kerry, John Edwards, Maureen Dowd, Terry McAuliffe, Jacques Chirac, Moby, Ted Kennedy, Bill and Hillary Clinton, Ed Asner, Martin Sheen, Danny Glover, Barbara Streisand, Barbara Boxer, Jesse Jackson, Tim Robbins, Anarchists, Cynthia McKinney, Molly Ivins, Al Gore and last, but not least, Michael Moore. Bite me!
A big F.U. to PETA, ALF, ELF, Louisvillepeace.org, Ted Rall, Sean Penn, Heather Mallick, MoveOn.org, The ACLU, Kofi Annan and The UN, International ANSWER, Osama bin Laden, Jimmy Carter, The AP, The NYT, Dan Rather and CBS, Reuters, Al Franken, Janeane Garofalo, Wesley Clark, Gerhard Schroeder, John Kerry, John Edwards, Maureen Dowd, Terry McAuliffe, Jacques Chirac, Moby, Ted Kennedy, Bill and Hillary Clinton, Ed Asner, Martin Sheen, Danny Glover, Barbara Streisand, Barbara Boxer, Jesse Jackson, Tim Robbins, Anarchists, Cynthia McKinney, Molly Ivins, Al Gore and last, but not least, Michael Moore. Bite me!
Wednesday, January 26, 2005
Line of the day
Via Farm Accident Digest:
"I didn't know that Robert Downey was making a movie about that singer dude from Journey."
He was talking about this guy:
Passengers subdue man on Southwest flight
"I didn't know that Robert Downey was making a movie about that singer dude from Journey."
He was talking about this guy:
Passengers subdue man on Southwest flight
Not what I thought
I saw the headline on this Op-ed in today's USA Today, and thought, "Oh wow! Albright's coming clean all the mistakes she and her boss Bill Clinton made.
Missed opportunities in Iraq
By Madeleine K. Albright
One yearns to believe Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld when he says that "just having elections in Iraq is an enormous success and a victory." The sad truth is that it is not.
Silly me. I should have known better.
Missed opportunities in Iraq
By Madeleine K. Albright
One yearns to believe Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld when he says that "just having elections in Iraq is an enormous success and a victory." The sad truth is that it is not.
Silly me. I should have known better.
Tuesday, January 25, 2005
Oscar Pick 'Em Group - It's FREE
I am inviting all Tomfoolery readers to join our Oscar Pick 'Em Group on Yahoo! Just pick who you think is going to win in all categories. The winner will get a prize that I can scrounge up between now and then. Take a minute and join, especially if you are a regular commenter and a cyberpal of mine.
Just click on "Join A Group." Here's the info you need:
Group # 873
Password: johnkerry
Click here to sign up.
Hope to see you there.
Just click on "Join A Group." Here's the info you need:
Group # 873
Password: johnkerry
Click here to sign up.
Hope to see you there.
Eagles in the Super Bowl
I cannot tell you how happy I am that the Eagles are going to Jacksonville. Frankly, I really did not think they ad much of a shot against the Patriots until I heard ESPN's Sean Salisbury say that they had no shot. After all, it was the same dope Salisbury who had both the Vikings and the Falcons beating the Eagles.
Seriously, I am going to savor this win and give you some insights on the game next week. Go Birds!!!
Seriously, I am going to savor this win and give you some insights on the game next week. Go Birds!!!
The same old stooges
When I see headline like this, I always known right about which Democrats they are going to quote on the record:
Democrats Call Rice Liar, Bush Apologist
WASHINGTON Jan 25, 2005 — One Senate Democrat called Condoleezza Rice a liar Tuesday and others said she was an apologist for Bush administration failures in Iraq, but she remained on track for confirmation as secretary of state.
Rice, who has been President Bush's White House national security adviser for four years, was one of the loudest voices urging war, Democrats said. She repeatedly deceived members of Congress and Americans at large about justifications for the war, said Sen. Mark Dayton, D-Minn.
Dayton isn't on my usual suspects list, but these clowns are:
"There was no reason to go to war in Iraq when we did, the way we did and for the false reasons we were given," said Sen. Edward M. Kennedy, D-Mass.
Rice is not directly responsible for intelligence failures prior to the Iraq war that overestimated Saddam's nuclear capability, said Sen. Carl Levin, D-Mich. "But she is responsible for her own distortions and exaggerations of the intelligence which was provided to her," Levin said.
"Dr. Rice is responsible for some of the most overblown rhetoric that the administration used to scare the American people," Sen. Robert Byrd, D-W.Va., said.
Only Barbara Boxer and Chucky Schumer are missing. Just imagine if Republican senators slandered a Democrat nominee like this. I don't have to tell you what would happen.
As for Dr. Rice, I couldn't given a damn what a murderer, a former Klansmen, and a lying hypocrite (remember, it was Levin who wrote a letter to Clinton urging him to attack Iraq over WMD. Funny how no one in the liberal media remembers that) says about her. She is a brilliant woman, and everyone knows that she has the ear of President Bush. Imagine how many foreign leaders, especially those misogynistic scum who are going to have to eat shit sandwiches when she gets done with them.
I had hoped the same thing would happen when Madeline Albright took office. Instead, she was a pathetic lapdog, and Arafat shit all over her because he could. You don't think Abbas would treat her like that? Or does anyone actually think that Syrian dirtbag Assad would refuse to see her after she landed in Damascus like he did to Warren Christopher?
We are damn lucky to have Dr. Rice representing us. The Democrats need to stop crying like bitches and confirm her at once.
Democrats Call Rice Liar, Bush Apologist
WASHINGTON Jan 25, 2005 — One Senate Democrat called Condoleezza Rice a liar Tuesday and others said she was an apologist for Bush administration failures in Iraq, but she remained on track for confirmation as secretary of state.
Rice, who has been President Bush's White House national security adviser for four years, was one of the loudest voices urging war, Democrats said. She repeatedly deceived members of Congress and Americans at large about justifications for the war, said Sen. Mark Dayton, D-Minn.
Dayton isn't on my usual suspects list, but these clowns are:
"There was no reason to go to war in Iraq when we did, the way we did and for the false reasons we were given," said Sen. Edward M. Kennedy, D-Mass.
Rice is not directly responsible for intelligence failures prior to the Iraq war that overestimated Saddam's nuclear capability, said Sen. Carl Levin, D-Mich. "But she is responsible for her own distortions and exaggerations of the intelligence which was provided to her," Levin said.
"Dr. Rice is responsible for some of the most overblown rhetoric that the administration used to scare the American people," Sen. Robert Byrd, D-W.Va., said.
Only Barbara Boxer and Chucky Schumer are missing. Just imagine if Republican senators slandered a Democrat nominee like this. I don't have to tell you what would happen.
As for Dr. Rice, I couldn't given a damn what a murderer, a former Klansmen, and a lying hypocrite (remember, it was Levin who wrote a letter to Clinton urging him to attack Iraq over WMD. Funny how no one in the liberal media remembers that) says about her. She is a brilliant woman, and everyone knows that she has the ear of President Bush. Imagine how many foreign leaders, especially those misogynistic scum who are going to have to eat shit sandwiches when she gets done with them.
I had hoped the same thing would happen when Madeline Albright took office. Instead, she was a pathetic lapdog, and Arafat shit all over her because he could. You don't think Abbas would treat her like that? Or does anyone actually think that Syrian dirtbag Assad would refuse to see her after she landed in Damascus like he did to Warren Christopher?
We are damn lucky to have Dr. Rice representing us. The Democrats need to stop crying like bitches and confirm her at once.
Saturday, January 22, 2005
NFC and AFC Championship Games
Regular readers know that I was born and raised in South Philly and that I have been a lifelong Eagles fan. After suffering through 3 straight championship games losses, I think you can imagine how badly I want the Eagles to win. All I am going to say is this: Come Sunday night at about 6:00 p.m. Eastern time or so, all of the so-called "experts" who have been giving Mike Vick crown all week will be left with one thought: "How the hell did I ever think that the Falcons could win this game?"
Prediction: Eagles 27 Falcons 13
As for the AFC Championship Game, I just can't see the Steelers winning this game. This isn't a knock on the Steelers, who are a damn good team. This thought comes from my deep respect for the Patriots, who I think are going to win the Super Bowl, even if they play my Eagles. I like Ben Roethlisberger. He is a terrific quarterback and the type of guy you could root for. However, he is rookie, and he played like one last week. The Patriots will expose Big Ben even more than the Jets did. They are way too smart and talented to lose.
Prediction: Patriots 24 Steelers 13
By the way, if you want to have a little fun, try out this 700 Level game to see if you can survive the Vet. Watch ou for the batteries!
Prediction: Eagles 27 Falcons 13
As for the AFC Championship Game, I just can't see the Steelers winning this game. This isn't a knock on the Steelers, who are a damn good team. This thought comes from my deep respect for the Patriots, who I think are going to win the Super Bowl, even if they play my Eagles. I like Ben Roethlisberger. He is a terrific quarterback and the type of guy you could root for. However, he is rookie, and he played like one last week. The Patriots will expose Big Ben even more than the Jets did. They are way too smart and talented to lose.
Prediction: Patriots 24 Steelers 13
By the way, if you want to have a little fun, try out this 700 Level game to see if you can survive the Vet. Watch ou for the batteries!
Line of the day
Here we go
The Iraqi elections are one week from today, and the entire week is guaranteed to be filled with nonsensical stories like this:
Iraq Gas Shortages Overshadow Election
BAGHDAD, Iraq - Taxi driver Raed Ali sleeps in his cab in streets that crackle with gunfire after dark, risking robbery or death to get a good spot at daybreak in one of the gasoline lines that wind through Baghdad's muddy alleys and gridlocked thoroughfares.
The irony of fuel shortages in one of the world's leading sources of petroleum is high on the list of hassles facing Iraqis, siphoning off much of the excitement over next week's national elections.
That's right. For the first time, the Iraqis have an honest chance to choose who will govern them, but they just can't get excited because they have no gas. Like the old leftists who thought that because Moussolini made the trains run on yime, the AP throws in this little tidbit, which I knew was coming as soon as I read the headline:
Some in the gas lines were nostalgic for the order Saddam imposed.
Except all the rape, murder, and pillage, life under Saddam was just wonderful I'm sure.
And the New York Times gets their shots in:
Iraq Remains Starkly Divided Over the Value of an Election
BAGHDAD, Iraq, Jan. 22 - Hejaz Hazim, a computer engineer who could not find a job in computers and now cleans clothes, slammed his iron into a dress shirt the other day and let off a burst of steam about the coming election.
"This election is bogus," Mr. Hazim said. "There is no drinking water in this city. There is no security. Why should I vote?"
Why should he vote? That's easy. To put the people in power who he believes would address his concerns. And, to get his country functioning properly so that he can get back to working in computers, that's why? Does he actually think that not having the election is going to fix all his problems. If the election did not happen now, his problems are only beginning. This, on the other hand, is the correct attitude:
Across town in the Shiite stronghold of Sadr City, a grocer called Abu Allah stood behind his pyramids of fruit and said that no matter what, he was going to the polls.
"Even if there's a bomb in my polling place," he said, "I will go in it."
Then we get this, an angle that the New York Times just loves printing:
When asked for his thoughts on the election process, Jabbar Saeed, a businessman in the Sunni-dominated city of Falluja, which has been reduced to rubble not once but twice, said Zionists were behind the election and added, "This election is not free or honest."
As for the future, he said, "things will turn worse."
And another expected quote:
"Let me tell you something important," lectured Walid Muhammad, the imam of a major Sunni mosque here. "As long as my country is under occupation, I feel that my vote means nothing."
And how much exactly was his vote worth before?
At least the times throws in a truthful quote, one that is so far down at the end of the article that many other outlets who pick up Times' stories will probably drop:
There was one thing, though, that many Iraqis interviewed for this article, from all groups, agreed on: the novelty of free elections. Abdul Khadim Ali, a portrait painter, remembers the days of Mr. Hussein's elections and how there were not 111 spots on the ballot but 2: yes or no.
"Some Baathist guy once came to our house and told my family we didn't have to go to the trouble of filling out our ballots - he'd do it for us," he said, referring to Mr. Hussein's party.
"This time," Mr. Ali said, "I'm marking my own box."
Sadly, if the media wasn't so anxious for the elections to fail (and by extension, a Bush failure), a lot of the problems with the elections would not exist. The more the media gives aid and comfort to the scum who don't want a free Iraq, the more effort they will put in to intimidate people. This is going to be an angering week of media watching for me.
Iraq Gas Shortages Overshadow Election
BAGHDAD, Iraq - Taxi driver Raed Ali sleeps in his cab in streets that crackle with gunfire after dark, risking robbery or death to get a good spot at daybreak in one of the gasoline lines that wind through Baghdad's muddy alleys and gridlocked thoroughfares.
The irony of fuel shortages in one of the world's leading sources of petroleum is high on the list of hassles facing Iraqis, siphoning off much of the excitement over next week's national elections.
That's right. For the first time, the Iraqis have an honest chance to choose who will govern them, but they just can't get excited because they have no gas. Like the old leftists who thought that because Moussolini made the trains run on yime, the AP throws in this little tidbit, which I knew was coming as soon as I read the headline:
Some in the gas lines were nostalgic for the order Saddam imposed.
Except all the rape, murder, and pillage, life under Saddam was just wonderful I'm sure.
And the New York Times gets their shots in:
Iraq Remains Starkly Divided Over the Value of an Election
BAGHDAD, Iraq, Jan. 22 - Hejaz Hazim, a computer engineer who could not find a job in computers and now cleans clothes, slammed his iron into a dress shirt the other day and let off a burst of steam about the coming election.
"This election is bogus," Mr. Hazim said. "There is no drinking water in this city. There is no security. Why should I vote?"
Why should he vote? That's easy. To put the people in power who he believes would address his concerns. And, to get his country functioning properly so that he can get back to working in computers, that's why? Does he actually think that not having the election is going to fix all his problems. If the election did not happen now, his problems are only beginning. This, on the other hand, is the correct attitude:
Across town in the Shiite stronghold of Sadr City, a grocer called Abu Allah stood behind his pyramids of fruit and said that no matter what, he was going to the polls.
"Even if there's a bomb in my polling place," he said, "I will go in it."
Then we get this, an angle that the New York Times just loves printing:
When asked for his thoughts on the election process, Jabbar Saeed, a businessman in the Sunni-dominated city of Falluja, which has been reduced to rubble not once but twice, said Zionists were behind the election and added, "This election is not free or honest."
As for the future, he said, "things will turn worse."
And another expected quote:
"Let me tell you something important," lectured Walid Muhammad, the imam of a major Sunni mosque here. "As long as my country is under occupation, I feel that my vote means nothing."
And how much exactly was his vote worth before?
At least the times throws in a truthful quote, one that is so far down at the end of the article that many other outlets who pick up Times' stories will probably drop:
There was one thing, though, that many Iraqis interviewed for this article, from all groups, agreed on: the novelty of free elections. Abdul Khadim Ali, a portrait painter, remembers the days of Mr. Hussein's elections and how there were not 111 spots on the ballot but 2: yes or no.
"Some Baathist guy once came to our house and told my family we didn't have to go to the trouble of filling out our ballots - he'd do it for us," he said, referring to Mr. Hussein's party.
"This time," Mr. Ali said, "I'm marking my own box."
Sadly, if the media wasn't so anxious for the elections to fail (and by extension, a Bush failure), a lot of the problems with the elections would not exist. The more the media gives aid and comfort to the scum who don't want a free Iraq, the more effort they will put in to intimidate people. This is going to be an angering week of media watching for me.
Friday, January 21, 2005
More on Kelo v. New London
As I said here, the most important civil rights case of the year is Kelo v. New London. Crime and Federalism has an important update on the case.
Ex Post, a blog of Columbia law students who belong to the Federalist Society, has a differing view.
Ex Post, a blog of Columbia law students who belong to the Federalist Society, has a differing view.
This is news?
Perhaps next we'll get a headline that reads, "Phoenix is hot in July."
Strikes disrupt French rail services
Strikes disrupt French rail services
Whoever is behind this...
...should get the gas chamber:
Men duped by Filipino phone line
Men who called a sex chat line to talk to Filipino girls were left short changed - by women putting on an exotic Far Eastern accent.
Callers paid £1 a minute on a premium line to speak to one of 40 women pretending to be from the Philippines.
Nottingham magistrates heard trading standards officers discovered the line was run from a base in Sherwood.
Company owner Andrew Vanderahe, 41, from Cambridge, was fined for breaching the Trade Descriptions Act.
The court was told trading standards uncovered the scam following a complaint from a caller.
How dare those scum rip-off those hard-up teabags? And, if that isn't bad enough, the bobbies took it real seriously:
They launched a 19-month investigation into the base in Hucknall Road that cost £17,000.
And, showing the true brilliance of socialism, look what they got from it:
Vanderahe, from Sawston, who ran Jabba Communications, admitted making false statements about the service and selling customers restricted porn videos without a licence.
He was fined £650 and ordered to pay costs of £1,000.
Oh well. Gotta love those teabags. You have no right to defend yourself in your home, but, damn, you have a right to not be defrauded when you call "Filipino" sex lines.
Men duped by Filipino phone line
Men who called a sex chat line to talk to Filipino girls were left short changed - by women putting on an exotic Far Eastern accent.
Callers paid £1 a minute on a premium line to speak to one of 40 women pretending to be from the Philippines.
Nottingham magistrates heard trading standards officers discovered the line was run from a base in Sherwood.
Company owner Andrew Vanderahe, 41, from Cambridge, was fined for breaching the Trade Descriptions Act.
The court was told trading standards uncovered the scam following a complaint from a caller.
How dare those scum rip-off those hard-up teabags? And, if that isn't bad enough, the bobbies took it real seriously:
They launched a 19-month investigation into the base in Hucknall Road that cost £17,000.
And, showing the true brilliance of socialism, look what they got from it:
Vanderahe, from Sawston, who ran Jabba Communications, admitted making false statements about the service and selling customers restricted porn videos without a licence.
He was fined £650 and ordered to pay costs of £1,000.
Oh well. Gotta love those teabags. You have no right to defend yourself in your home, but, damn, you have a right to not be defrauded when you call "Filipino" sex lines.
From the "I wish I thought of this first department"
Via Matthew Hoy:
Stupidity on the "right:" SpongeBob SquarePants is not a homosexual, despite what some people say. You'd have thought they would've learned their lesson after the whole Tinky Winky episode.
However, in their "defense," they're only using similar standards for determining sexual preference as others have used to determine that Abraham Lincoln was gay.
Dopes. They need to leave my man SpongeBob alone. If it were Patrick, that would be different.
Stupidity on the "right:" SpongeBob SquarePants is not a homosexual, despite what some people say. You'd have thought they would've learned their lesson after the whole Tinky Winky episode.
However, in their "defense," they're only using similar standards for determining sexual preference as others have used to determine that Abraham Lincoln was gay.
Dopes. They need to leave my man SpongeBob alone. If it were Patrick, that would be different.
My governor in action
I am convinced that the governor of the state of New Mexico, where I live, will be placing his hat into the ring in 2008. Just from the little things he has been doing, it sure seems that way. This quote in today's New York Times convinces me that he will take a shot.
Gov. Bill Richardson of New Mexico, a Democrat who has been mentioned as a potential candidate for 2008, said: "You have a totally wide-open field with no leading candidate and no 800-pound gorillas on each side. You're seeing generation changes in both parties, and you're seeing totally new faces emerge."
If Hillary Clinton isn't the definition of a political 800-pound gorilla, then I don't know what is.
If you get a chance, let me know in the comments what you know about Bill Richardson. If you don't know anything about him say that too. I am just curious to know how people around the country view him, if they do at all.
Gov. Bill Richardson of New Mexico, a Democrat who has been mentioned as a potential candidate for 2008, said: "You have a totally wide-open field with no leading candidate and no 800-pound gorillas on each side. You're seeing generation changes in both parties, and you're seeing totally new faces emerge."
If Hillary Clinton isn't the definition of a political 800-pound gorilla, then I don't know what is.
If you get a chance, let me know in the comments what you know about Bill Richardson. If you don't know anything about him say that too. I am just curious to know how people around the country view him, if they do at all.
Want free speech rights? Don't work for the ACLU
Once again, our friends at the Anti-Christian Liberals Union show themselves to be nothing more than true hypocrites.
A.C.L.U. Will Consider Disciplining 2 Officials
The American Civil Liberties Union, which since its inception has fought to protect free speech rights, is scheduled to begin a debate today over whether to discipline - or potentially move to oust - two board members for speaking to reporters.
The executive committee of the A.C.L.U. board will discuss whether Wendy Kaminer and Michael Meyers have acted inappropriately as board members. The two have criticized some actions by the executive director, Anthony D. Romero, and the executive committee for what they said was a failure to provide proper oversight.
While this publicity will ensiure that these 2 will keep their jobs, you just gotta love how the ACLU doesn't even practice what they preach.
A.C.L.U. Will Consider Disciplining 2 Officials
The American Civil Liberties Union, which since its inception has fought to protect free speech rights, is scheduled to begin a debate today over whether to discipline - or potentially move to oust - two board members for speaking to reporters.
The executive committee of the A.C.L.U. board will discuss whether Wendy Kaminer and Michael Meyers have acted inappropriately as board members. The two have criticized some actions by the executive director, Anthony D. Romero, and the executive committee for what they said was a failure to provide proper oversight.
While this publicity will ensiure that these 2 will keep their jobs, you just gotta love how the ACLU doesn't even practice what they preach.
Wednesday, January 19, 2005
Inauguration Day
In honor of those dopes at Bush Blackout, our friend Greg at Just Morons (who is an American expat in Denmark) designed this, which I am leaving up for the entire inauguration day. Thanks Greg!!
Hey Cuba, you first
This is almost as funny as Syria on the U.N. Human Rights Commission.
Cuba Slams U.S. on Treatment of Detainees
HAVANA - Cuba on Wednesday accused the United States of lying about its treatment of inmates at the U.S. naval base at Guantanamo Bay, claiming torture and cruelty occur daily at the prison camp for terror suspects.
The Cuban Foreign Ministry said in a statement Wednesday that it sent a letter to the U.S. government urging authorities to immediately stop the alleged abuse at the camp, which sits on Cuba's easternmost tip.
Cuba said the United States has been lying to hide "the horrendous torture, cruelty and humiliating and insulting treatment of prisoners" that are all part of the abuse "the U.S. government commits every day."
The U.S. State Department dismissed the charges, caying it was ironic that such criticisms were coming from "the biggest, and most closed, human rights violator in the hemisphere."
Wow. The State Department actually showing some guts. I am stunned. I think when Dr. Rice is there we'll hear more of these types of comebacks, which is exactly what Foggy Bottom should be doing.
Of course, the AP gets this shot in:
It denied that human rights violations are occurring at Guantanamo but stopped short of saying none had occurred previously.
Why not write that the Cuban statement stopped short of denying that Castro sticks scorpions in his ass for pleasure? That would be pretty much the same type of ridiculous "journalism" we've come to expect from the AP.
Cuba Slams U.S. on Treatment of Detainees
HAVANA - Cuba on Wednesday accused the United States of lying about its treatment of inmates at the U.S. naval base at Guantanamo Bay, claiming torture and cruelty occur daily at the prison camp for terror suspects.
The Cuban Foreign Ministry said in a statement Wednesday that it sent a letter to the U.S. government urging authorities to immediately stop the alleged abuse at the camp, which sits on Cuba's easternmost tip.
Cuba said the United States has been lying to hide "the horrendous torture, cruelty and humiliating and insulting treatment of prisoners" that are all part of the abuse "the U.S. government commits every day."
The U.S. State Department dismissed the charges, caying it was ironic that such criticisms were coming from "the biggest, and most closed, human rights violator in the hemisphere."
Wow. The State Department actually showing some guts. I am stunned. I think when Dr. Rice is there we'll hear more of these types of comebacks, which is exactly what Foggy Bottom should be doing.
Of course, the AP gets this shot in:
It denied that human rights violations are occurring at Guantanamo but stopped short of saying none had occurred previously.
Why not write that the Cuban statement stopped short of denying that Castro sticks scorpions in his ass for pleasure? That would be pretty much the same type of ridiculous "journalism" we've come to expect from the AP.
Is this supposed to be funny?
I sure don't get it one bit. Who publishes this crap?
"That dummy Bush conned all of us"
The above quote is made up, a way to show you the hypocrisy of the Bush-bashers. They say he is the dumbest man on the planet in one breath, and then say he conned the whole world on Iraq and WMD's in the next. I always say, if Bush is so dumb, and he is conned you, what does that say about you?
This Reuters article is an even better example of what I mean:
PARIS (Reuters) - The rest of the world will be watching with anxiety when President Bush is inaugurated Thursday for a second time, fearing the most powerful man on the planet may do more harm than good.
Many world leaders, alienated by Bush's go-it-alone foreign policy and the U.S.-led war in Iraq, would have preferred him to lose the U.S. election last November. Since his victory, they have been urging him to listen and consult more.
All in one sentence. Bush is both going it alone and leading a war in Iraq. Breathtaking. Don't these people employ editors to catch this stuff?
This Reuters article is an even better example of what I mean:
PARIS (Reuters) - The rest of the world will be watching with anxiety when President Bush is inaugurated Thursday for a second time, fearing the most powerful man on the planet may do more harm than good.
Many world leaders, alienated by Bush's go-it-alone foreign policy and the U.S.-led war in Iraq, would have preferred him to lose the U.S. election last November. Since his victory, they have been urging him to listen and consult more.
All in one sentence. Bush is both going it alone and leading a war in Iraq. Breathtaking. Don't these people employ editors to catch this stuff?
Tuesday, January 18, 2005
Just wondering
I have heard almost nothing about who will be swearing in Bush on Thursday. I read last week that Rehnquist looks awful. Will he be able to do it? If not, then who? I am surprised at the lack of coverage of this.
Prediction: Rehnquist announces his retirement next week, to maximize the public attention that will be bestowed upon him for his over 30 years of service.
Prediction: Rehnquist announces his retirement next week, to maximize the public attention that will be bestowed upon him for his over 30 years of service.
Rice Confirmation Hearing
When Madeline Albright was confirmed as Secretary of State, at the time I was happy thinking about how scumbags around the world would be forced to deal with a Jewish woman, considering the severe lack of respect for women in many of the problem countries she would be dealing with. Sadly, instead she became a poodle, especially for Yassar Arafat, and I was disheartened by her tenure.
Today, I watched Dr. Condoleezza Rice take on that dunce Barbara Boxer, and I was inspired by it. How many times have we watched a confirmation hearing, and although the nominee was assured confirmation like Rice is, hr or she would get lambasted by some grandstanding Senator and would take it in silence? Many, many times we have seen it. However, Dr. Rice smacked down Boxer wonderfully.
Rice answered the day's harshest questioning, from Sen. Boxer, with a rare note of strain in her voice. Boxer came close to accusing Rice of having lied in her public statements about the run-up to war in Iraq.
"Your loyalty to your mission you were given overwhelmed your respect for the truth, and I don't say it lightly," Boxer said.
"I have never, ever lost respect for the truth in service of anything," Rice replied coolly. "It is not my nature, it is not my character. And I would hope that we can have this conversation ... without impugning my credibility or my integrity."
I wish I were a fly on the wall when some of the scum that lead other countires try to test her nerve. However, I suspect they already know that Dr. Rice is no joke and means business. We are damn lucky to have such a fine women representing us in the world.
And, by the way, how nice of John Kerry to show up for work today.
Today, I watched Dr. Condoleezza Rice take on that dunce Barbara Boxer, and I was inspired by it. How many times have we watched a confirmation hearing, and although the nominee was assured confirmation like Rice is, hr or she would get lambasted by some grandstanding Senator and would take it in silence? Many, many times we have seen it. However, Dr. Rice smacked down Boxer wonderfully.
Rice answered the day's harshest questioning, from Sen. Boxer, with a rare note of strain in her voice. Boxer came close to accusing Rice of having lied in her public statements about the run-up to war in Iraq.
"Your loyalty to your mission you were given overwhelmed your respect for the truth, and I don't say it lightly," Boxer said.
"I have never, ever lost respect for the truth in service of anything," Rice replied coolly. "It is not my nature, it is not my character. And I would hope that we can have this conversation ... without impugning my credibility or my integrity."
I wish I were a fly on the wall when some of the scum that lead other countires try to test her nerve. However, I suspect they already know that Dr. Rice is no joke and means business. We are damn lucky to have such a fine women representing us in the world.
And, by the way, how nice of John Kerry to show up for work today.
Sunday, January 16, 2005
The "latest" news from the wires
Since the Colts-Patriots game was a dud, I decided to read the wires to see what was going on. Here's what I found:
Iraq is George Bush's Vietnam: US Senator Kennedy
This is news? Hasn't the drunken ol' murderer said this many times before?
Bush: U.S. Not Rushing to Leave Iraq
Again, this is news? Hasn't Bush been saying this for quite a while now?
And, my favorite story of the day, reeking with bias. What kind of bias depends on who you read. Here's CBS's take:
Bush: Voters Ratified Iraq Policy
Read the first paragraph closely:
(CBS/AP) President Bush says his re-election proves Americans agree with his decision to invade Iraq, and that as a result, there's no need to hold any administration officials accountable for mistakes made in planning for the war, or its aftermath.
Now read the second:
"We had an accountability moment, and that's called the 2004 elections," Mr. Bush said in an interview with The Washington Post for Sunday's editions. "The American people listened to different assessments made about what was taking place in Iraq, and they looked at the two candidates, and chose me."
Now, where exactly did Bush say, hint, or even suggest that there was no need to hold anyone accountable? I read the entire story and saw nothing to even remotely justify that lead paragraph. Of course, this is not surprising. After all, this is CBS we are talking about. Now, on to this, from another usual suspect, CNN:
Bush hit for linking Iraq to vote
WASHINGTON (CNN) -- U.S. President George W. Bush has been criticized for claiming that his re-election in 2004 was a ratification of his policy on Iraq.
How dare Bush act like the voters were supporting him and his policies by voting for him? Bush is way too stupid to understand that by his winning, the American people rejected his Iraq policy completely.
Seriously, let's see who criticized him:
- "The policy is ridiculous," Democratic Senator Ted Kennedy said.
- "I think the American people obviously re-elected him. That doesn't mean they agree with all of his policies relative to Iraq or all of the ways in which the Iraq war has been fought," Senator Carl Levin said.
Wow. Kennedy and Levin. There's two guys that we should all listen to. And, well, no one else is quoted. Don't you just love those shameless anti-Bush headlines? How many more election cycles is it going to take before the Democrats decide to become a viable party again? How many more viewers do CBS and CNN need to lose before they understand that this laughable bias just ain't working out for them? If CNN were honest, the headline would have read, "Bush: 'Voters ratified Iraq policy.' Democrats disagree." Or something close to that.
And then there is this:
Report: U.S. Conducting Secret Missions Inside Iran
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The United States has been conducting secret reconnaissance missions inside Iran to help identify potential nuclear, chemical and missile targets, The New Yorker magazine reported Sunday.
Although Reuters meant for this story to somehow be a bad thing, I was damn happy to read it. Until I saw the source. Now I am concerned that we might not being doing it.
The article, by award-winning reporter Seymour Hersh, said the secret missions have been going on at least since last summer with the goal of identifying target information for three dozen or more suspected sites.
Hersh quotes one government consultant with close ties to the Pentagon as saying, "The civilians in the Pentagon want to go into Iran and destroy as much of the military infrastructure as possible."
Damn, I hope Hersh is absolutely right. Sadly, I don't think so, because he thinks this is a bad thing, and he thiks that this is somehow an anti-Bush story. And, Hersh is not exactly loyal to the truth when it comes to America-bashing.
Iraq is George Bush's Vietnam: US Senator Kennedy
This is news? Hasn't the drunken ol' murderer said this many times before?
Bush: U.S. Not Rushing to Leave Iraq
Again, this is news? Hasn't Bush been saying this for quite a while now?
And, my favorite story of the day, reeking with bias. What kind of bias depends on who you read. Here's CBS's take:
Bush: Voters Ratified Iraq Policy
Read the first paragraph closely:
(CBS/AP) President Bush says his re-election proves Americans agree with his decision to invade Iraq, and that as a result, there's no need to hold any administration officials accountable for mistakes made in planning for the war, or its aftermath.
Now read the second:
"We had an accountability moment, and that's called the 2004 elections," Mr. Bush said in an interview with The Washington Post for Sunday's editions. "The American people listened to different assessments made about what was taking place in Iraq, and they looked at the two candidates, and chose me."
Now, where exactly did Bush say, hint, or even suggest that there was no need to hold anyone accountable? I read the entire story and saw nothing to even remotely justify that lead paragraph. Of course, this is not surprising. After all, this is CBS we are talking about. Now, on to this, from another usual suspect, CNN:
Bush hit for linking Iraq to vote
WASHINGTON (CNN) -- U.S. President George W. Bush has been criticized for claiming that his re-election in 2004 was a ratification of his policy on Iraq.
How dare Bush act like the voters were supporting him and his policies by voting for him? Bush is way too stupid to understand that by his winning, the American people rejected his Iraq policy completely.
Seriously, let's see who criticized him:
- "The policy is ridiculous," Democratic Senator Ted Kennedy said.
- "I think the American people obviously re-elected him. That doesn't mean they agree with all of his policies relative to Iraq or all of the ways in which the Iraq war has been fought," Senator Carl Levin said.
Wow. Kennedy and Levin. There's two guys that we should all listen to. And, well, no one else is quoted. Don't you just love those shameless anti-Bush headlines? How many more election cycles is it going to take before the Democrats decide to become a viable party again? How many more viewers do CBS and CNN need to lose before they understand that this laughable bias just ain't working out for them? If CNN were honest, the headline would have read, "Bush: 'Voters ratified Iraq policy.' Democrats disagree." Or something close to that.
And then there is this:
Report: U.S. Conducting Secret Missions Inside Iran
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The United States has been conducting secret reconnaissance missions inside Iran to help identify potential nuclear, chemical and missile targets, The New Yorker magazine reported Sunday.
Although Reuters meant for this story to somehow be a bad thing, I was damn happy to read it. Until I saw the source. Now I am concerned that we might not being doing it.
The article, by award-winning reporter Seymour Hersh, said the secret missions have been going on at least since last summer with the goal of identifying target information for three dozen or more suspected sites.
Hersh quotes one government consultant with close ties to the Pentagon as saying, "The civilians in the Pentagon want to go into Iran and destroy as much of the military infrastructure as possible."
Damn, I hope Hersh is absolutely right. Sadly, I don't think so, because he thinks this is a bad thing, and he thiks that this is somehow an anti-Bush story. And, Hersh is not exactly loyal to the truth when it comes to America-bashing.
E-A-G-L-E-S..EAGLES!!!
Told you so, didn't I? I told you all week that the Eagles defense wasn't the Packers, and I told you the Eagles would beat them hands down. And how about that troll Randy Moss? 3 catches for 51 yards. He's a joke.
And I am telling you know that you will hear all week how wonderful Michael Vick is. You will hear the same "geniuses" who had the Vikings beating the Eagles this week saying that the Falcons will beat the Eagles. It will be, "how will they stop Vick?" every 5 minutes. They will kiss Vick's ass like he is the greatest player since Jim Brown. And, just like this week, the Eagles will win. There is no way the Eagles are losing the NFC Championship Game for the 4th straight year, and especially not to this Falcons team.
(p.s. Pre-game prediction: Patriots 31- Colts 24)
Go Birds!!
And I am telling you know that you will hear all week how wonderful Michael Vick is. You will hear the same "geniuses" who had the Vikings beating the Eagles this week saying that the Falcons will beat the Eagles. It will be, "how will they stop Vick?" every 5 minutes. They will kiss Vick's ass like he is the greatest player since Jim Brown. And, just like this week, the Eagles will win. There is no way the Eagles are losing the NFC Championship Game for the 4th straight year, and especially not to this Falcons team.
(p.s. Pre-game prediction: Patriots 31- Colts 24)
Go Birds!!
Saturday, January 15, 2005
Random Thoughts
In honor of Thomas Sowell, a man of brilliance, I give you these random thoughts:
- Why doesn't the History Channel just rename itself the Hitler Channel? After all, about 80% of its programming is in some way related to Hitler, the SS, and/or The Third Reich.
- Is it me, or is ESPN slowly becoming MTV? They seem to be inching away from sports little by little. They are now premiering music videos, making movies like "3" and shows like Tilt (I actually think, after seeing one episode, that the show has potential), and more than ever act like they are just the coolest thing going. Just sports is all I want from them. And, am I the only one who thinks that Stuart Scott just plain sucks?
- I sometimes cannot believe what I hear from my fellow law school students. The same people who scream bloody murder because the government can discover that you flew from Albuquerque to Lubbock 3 years ago have no problem with the government forcing someone from their home in order to give your land to a developer who might give the politicans more tax dollars to waste than your property taxes give them.
- What the hell is wrong with the NHL? They aren't playing, and very few people besides me care. Don't both sides realize that? What the hell are they waiting for? Lock them in a room, and settle it. Soon, there won't be a dollar (or loonie)for them to fight over any longer.
- Michael Newdow needs to go away. His 15 minutes are long over. Believe me, I am more offended by him than he is by Bush placing his hand on a Bible.
- If you have the time, watch some or all of this discussion between Supreme Court Justices Antonin Scalia and Stephen Breyer about foreign influences on our law. Scalia rarely can be heard like this. He usually doesn't allow camera or tape recorders at his speeches. If you watch these two debate with an open mind, you cannot come to any other conclusion than that Scalia's style of jurisprudence is exactly what we need at the Supreme Court, not Breyer's. Don't get me wrong, Breyer is a brilliant man. But he is far too liberal, and it seems to me that his primary concern is how his opinions are received at Yale and Harvard. This quote from Breyer concerns me deeply:
"U.S. law is not handed down from on high even at the U.S. Supreme Court," he said. "The law emerges from a conversation with judges, lawyers, professors and law students. ... It's what I call opening your eyes as to what's going on elsewhere."
Read that again. Closely. How about legislatures, Mr. Justice? I want the law to emerge from people whose asses I can vote out. And, I don't care one whit for "foreign moods, fads, or fashions" when our law is concerned. The only thing I despise more than a limousine liberal is a one-world liberal. Breyer, shown by his own words, is a one-world liberal, who doesn't not believe in American exceptionalism. That is why I do not care for his ilk.
- Go Birds!!!
- Why doesn't the History Channel just rename itself the Hitler Channel? After all, about 80% of its programming is in some way related to Hitler, the SS, and/or The Third Reich.
- Is it me, or is ESPN slowly becoming MTV? They seem to be inching away from sports little by little. They are now premiering music videos, making movies like "3" and shows like Tilt (I actually think, after seeing one episode, that the show has potential), and more than ever act like they are just the coolest thing going. Just sports is all I want from them. And, am I the only one who thinks that Stuart Scott just plain sucks?
- I sometimes cannot believe what I hear from my fellow law school students. The same people who scream bloody murder because the government can discover that you flew from Albuquerque to Lubbock 3 years ago have no problem with the government forcing someone from their home in order to give your land to a developer who might give the politicans more tax dollars to waste than your property taxes give them.
- What the hell is wrong with the NHL? They aren't playing, and very few people besides me care. Don't both sides realize that? What the hell are they waiting for? Lock them in a room, and settle it. Soon, there won't be a dollar (or loonie)for them to fight over any longer.
- Michael Newdow needs to go away. His 15 minutes are long over. Believe me, I am more offended by him than he is by Bush placing his hand on a Bible.
- If you have the time, watch some or all of this discussion between Supreme Court Justices Antonin Scalia and Stephen Breyer about foreign influences on our law. Scalia rarely can be heard like this. He usually doesn't allow camera or tape recorders at his speeches. If you watch these two debate with an open mind, you cannot come to any other conclusion than that Scalia's style of jurisprudence is exactly what we need at the Supreme Court, not Breyer's. Don't get me wrong, Breyer is a brilliant man. But he is far too liberal, and it seems to me that his primary concern is how his opinions are received at Yale and Harvard. This quote from Breyer concerns me deeply:
"U.S. law is not handed down from on high even at the U.S. Supreme Court," he said. "The law emerges from a conversation with judges, lawyers, professors and law students. ... It's what I call opening your eyes as to what's going on elsewhere."
Read that again. Closely. How about legislatures, Mr. Justice? I want the law to emerge from people whose asses I can vote out. And, I don't care one whit for "foreign moods, fads, or fashions" when our law is concerned. The only thing I despise more than a limousine liberal is a one-world liberal. Breyer, shown by his own words, is a one-world liberal, who doesn't not believe in American exceptionalism. That is why I do not care for his ilk.
- Go Birds!!!
NFL Playoffs - Saturday's games
Herman Edwards must be a Democrat. How else can you explain him making the same dumb, idiotic mistake that San Diego made against his team just like week? (Of course, as a result, the Jets are now joining the Chargers on the golf course)
Last week, in overtime, needing a field goal to win, the Chargers got the ball inside the 30-yard line. As soon as that happened, the Chargers stopped trying, and ran the ball into the line, acting as if the game waa over. The kicker tanked the kick, and they susbsequently lost. Today, the jets got nside the 30-yard line in the last minute, needing only a field goal to win, and instead of continuing to play, they had all the urgency of a guy waiting for a bus. They let the clock run down, and, as expected, the kicker tanked the kick.
I will never understand NFL coaches. They become gutless worms at the moment of truth. It always happens. I could write a book about it. Herman Edwards has been the most disgraceful clock manager since Rich Kotite. I like Herm a ton, but he has killed his team this year. Just killed them. And, Chad "linguini-arm" Pennington needed to step up and show real leadership when it counted. He failed to do so.
Do I really care about the Jets, Jets, Jets? Of course not. But I do not like the Steelers, and I really wanted to see them go down. The Steelers are lucky bastards.
As for the Falcons, here's a memo to ESPN's Sean Salisbury and every other clown that just saw the Falcons win and has them in the Super Bowl: IT WAS THE RAMS!! They are pure frauds!! They backed into the playoffs, beating the Eagles 3rd strings (barely, I might add), the lifeless Jets, and the worthless Seahawks. All week, many of the "geniuses" who write and talk about football had the Rams going into Atlanta and winning. Now, these same men of wisdom have the Falcons in the Super Bowl.
Hold on a minute, fellas. There is the minor issue of the Philadelphia Eagles. These same "geniuses" had the Vikings going into Philadelphia and winning 5 minutes after the Vikings-Packers game was over. These guys must be liberals, because they think history began 5 minutes ago. The Vikings lost 4 of their last 5, and beat a highly overrated Packers team, with a QB on his last legs, making rookie mistakes, and a secondary that has those stiffs Al Harris and Ahman Carroll. The Eagles have 3 Pro-Bowlers in their secondary, and a team really only lost 1 game. (Those last 2, where they played nobody, don't count)
The Eagles will beat the Vikings. Of this I have no doubt. And, Michael Vick is not going to run all over the field against the Eagles, so forget that. The Eagles are going to the Super Bowl.
My predictions are on the record. Get yours in if you'd like.
Go Birds!!!
Last week, in overtime, needing a field goal to win, the Chargers got the ball inside the 30-yard line. As soon as that happened, the Chargers stopped trying, and ran the ball into the line, acting as if the game waa over. The kicker tanked the kick, and they susbsequently lost. Today, the jets got nside the 30-yard line in the last minute, needing only a field goal to win, and instead of continuing to play, they had all the urgency of a guy waiting for a bus. They let the clock run down, and, as expected, the kicker tanked the kick.
I will never understand NFL coaches. They become gutless worms at the moment of truth. It always happens. I could write a book about it. Herman Edwards has been the most disgraceful clock manager since Rich Kotite. I like Herm a ton, but he has killed his team this year. Just killed them. And, Chad "linguini-arm" Pennington needed to step up and show real leadership when it counted. He failed to do so.
Do I really care about the Jets, Jets, Jets? Of course not. But I do not like the Steelers, and I really wanted to see them go down. The Steelers are lucky bastards.
As for the Falcons, here's a memo to ESPN's Sean Salisbury and every other clown that just saw the Falcons win and has them in the Super Bowl: IT WAS THE RAMS!! They are pure frauds!! They backed into the playoffs, beating the Eagles 3rd strings (barely, I might add), the lifeless Jets, and the worthless Seahawks. All week, many of the "geniuses" who write and talk about football had the Rams going into Atlanta and winning. Now, these same men of wisdom have the Falcons in the Super Bowl.
Hold on a minute, fellas. There is the minor issue of the Philadelphia Eagles. These same "geniuses" had the Vikings going into Philadelphia and winning 5 minutes after the Vikings-Packers game was over. These guys must be liberals, because they think history began 5 minutes ago. The Vikings lost 4 of their last 5, and beat a highly overrated Packers team, with a QB on his last legs, making rookie mistakes, and a secondary that has those stiffs Al Harris and Ahman Carroll. The Eagles have 3 Pro-Bowlers in their secondary, and a team really only lost 1 game. (Those last 2, where they played nobody, don't count)
The Eagles will beat the Vikings. Of this I have no doubt. And, Michael Vick is not going to run all over the field against the Eagles, so forget that. The Eagles are going to the Super Bowl.
My predictions are on the record. Get yours in if you'd like.
Go Birds!!!
When you need a laugh...
...go visit Media Matters. The site seems to be based on their outrage that conservative commentators actually have opinions. I stop by once in a while for some laughs. But, if you need to know where their real priorities are, just read this thread complaining about how al-Qaeda is entitled to Geneva Convention protections, and that conservatives are lying when they say that al-Qaeda isn't entitled to them.
Here are some other howlers:
NY Post revived Sandy Berger "socks docs" rumors - Yeah, that was only a rumor. OK. Sure.
On MSNBC, Byron York repeated unwarranted attacks on Dan Rather - Mary Mapes may yet have a job prospect with this bunch.
Limbaugh on Guantánamo detainees reportedly forced to defecate on themselves: "I thought they did that anyway over there" - Uh, someone needs to remind them that Rush is a commentator and an entertainer.
In CBS memos coverage, media ignored -- or even denied -- credible evidence that Bush failed to fulfill National Guard duty - Nice "fake but accurate" try.
Like I said. If you need a laugh, and the Chapelle Show is not on, just visit Media Matters.
Here are some other howlers:
NY Post revived Sandy Berger "socks docs" rumors - Yeah, that was only a rumor. OK. Sure.
On MSNBC, Byron York repeated unwarranted attacks on Dan Rather - Mary Mapes may yet have a job prospect with this bunch.
Limbaugh on Guantánamo detainees reportedly forced to defecate on themselves: "I thought they did that anyway over there" - Uh, someone needs to remind them that Rush is a commentator and an entertainer.
In CBS memos coverage, media ignored -- or even denied -- credible evidence that Bush failed to fulfill National Guard duty - Nice "fake but accurate" try.
Like I said. If you need a laugh, and the Chapelle Show is not on, just visit Media Matters.
Thursday, January 13, 2005
Why Randy Moss is a tool
I love Randy Moss' talent. I am in awe of his ability and love watching him play. But the reason he acts like a total jackass is perfectly illustrated in this story.
McCombs wants Fox's Buck off Vikings-Eagles telecast
EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. (AP) -- Fox Sports turned down Vikings owner Red McCombs' request to remove play-by-play announcer Joe Buck from Sunday's game at Philadelphia over his criticism of Randy Moss.
After Moss caught a touchdown pass in last weekend's win at Green Bay, the wide receiver celebrated by pretending to pull down his pants and moon Packers fans. Buck immediately called it a ``disgusting act.''
McCombs said that statement was out of line. A two-sentence news release issued by the team said McCombs felt Buck's comments ``suggested a prejudice that surpassed objective reporting.''
Dan Bell, a Fox spokesman, said Wednesday the network has ``no intention whatsoever'' of removing Buck.
Nor should they. Buck, whether you agree or not, made a fair observation, which is what he should have done. When the Viking's brass sit in their offices, complaining about how Moss' antics are hurting their team, all they need to do is look in the nearest mirror.
One more thing: Eagles will beat the Vikings this weekend. Bank on it.
Go Birds!
McCombs wants Fox's Buck off Vikings-Eagles telecast
EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. (AP) -- Fox Sports turned down Vikings owner Red McCombs' request to remove play-by-play announcer Joe Buck from Sunday's game at Philadelphia over his criticism of Randy Moss.
After Moss caught a touchdown pass in last weekend's win at Green Bay, the wide receiver celebrated by pretending to pull down his pants and moon Packers fans. Buck immediately called it a ``disgusting act.''
McCombs said that statement was out of line. A two-sentence news release issued by the team said McCombs felt Buck's comments ``suggested a prejudice that surpassed objective reporting.''
Dan Bell, a Fox spokesman, said Wednesday the network has ``no intention whatsoever'' of removing Buck.
Nor should they. Buck, whether you agree or not, made a fair observation, which is what he should have done. When the Viking's brass sit in their offices, complaining about how Moss' antics are hurting their team, all they need to do is look in the nearest mirror.
One more thing: Eagles will beat the Vikings this weekend. Bank on it.
Go Birds!
This week's fun-filled meme
The talking points from the DNC headquarters came out a few days ago, and this is all I have been hearing on the talk shows from the lefties. (The AP has finally ogtten around to re-writing the talking points and repackaging them)
Some Now Question Cost of Inauguration
WASHINGTON - President Bush's second inauguration will cost tens of millions of dollars — $40 million alone in private donations for the balls, parade and other invitation-only parties. With that kind of money, what could you buy?
_200 armored Humvees with the best armor for troops in Iraq.
_Vaccinations and preventive health care for 22 million children in regions devastated by the tsunami.
_A down payment on the nation's deficit, which hit a record-breaking $412 billion last year.
_Two years' salary for the Mets' new center fielder Carlos Beltran, or all of pitcher Randy Johnson's contract extension with the New York Yankees.
Weeks ago, the inauguration and its accompanying costs were considered a given, an historic ceremony with all the pomp, pageantry and celebrations that the nation had come to expect every four years.
But a recent confluence of events — the tsunami natural disaster, Bush's warning about Social Security finances and the $5 billion-a-month price tag for the war in Iraq — have many Americans now wondering why spend the money the second time around.
No one gives a damn except the same leftists who hate Bush's guts and are now trying to embarrass him into canceling the inaguration (of course, won't happen), to place a black cloud around Bush's day, or just to simply deflect attention from Bush.
This is private money!! Despite what the left thinks, private money belongs to private people, to spend as they wish. It has nothing to do with the deficit or anything else governmental.
This part is laughable, from the usual suspects:
New York Rep. Anthony Weiner, a Democrat, suggested inaugural parties should be scaled back, citing as a precedent Roosevelt's inauguration during World War II.
"President Roosevelt held his 1945 inaugural at the White House, making a short speech and serving guests cold chicken salad and plain pound cake," according to a letter from Weiner and Rep. Jim McDermott), D-Wash. "During World War I, President Wilson did not have any parties at his 1917 inaugural, saying that such festivities would be undignified."
These are the same people who have refused to act like we were in a war for years. Now, they want to compare the war on terror to both World Wars.
No one cares. I am tired of hearing about this.
Some Now Question Cost of Inauguration
WASHINGTON - President Bush's second inauguration will cost tens of millions of dollars — $40 million alone in private donations for the balls, parade and other invitation-only parties. With that kind of money, what could you buy?
_200 armored Humvees with the best armor for troops in Iraq.
_Vaccinations and preventive health care for 22 million children in regions devastated by the tsunami.
_A down payment on the nation's deficit, which hit a record-breaking $412 billion last year.
_Two years' salary for the Mets' new center fielder Carlos Beltran, or all of pitcher Randy Johnson's contract extension with the New York Yankees.
Weeks ago, the inauguration and its accompanying costs were considered a given, an historic ceremony with all the pomp, pageantry and celebrations that the nation had come to expect every four years.
But a recent confluence of events — the tsunami natural disaster, Bush's warning about Social Security finances and the $5 billion-a-month price tag for the war in Iraq — have many Americans now wondering why spend the money the second time around.
No one gives a damn except the same leftists who hate Bush's guts and are now trying to embarrass him into canceling the inaguration (of course, won't happen), to place a black cloud around Bush's day, or just to simply deflect attention from Bush.
This is private money!! Despite what the left thinks, private money belongs to private people, to spend as they wish. It has nothing to do with the deficit or anything else governmental.
This part is laughable, from the usual suspects:
New York Rep. Anthony Weiner, a Democrat, suggested inaugural parties should be scaled back, citing as a precedent Roosevelt's inauguration during World War II.
"President Roosevelt held his 1945 inaugural at the White House, making a short speech and serving guests cold chicken salad and plain pound cake," according to a letter from Weiner and Rep. Jim McDermott), D-Wash. "During World War I, President Wilson did not have any parties at his 1917 inaugural, saying that such festivities would be undignified."
These are the same people who have refused to act like we were in a war for years. Now, they want to compare the war on terror to both World Wars.
No one cares. I am tired of hearing about this.
Yeah, Abbas is a man of peace
So much for that "mandate for peace" that the New York Times talked about.
Five Israelis Die in Gaza Suicide Bombing
GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip - Palestinian militants set off a large truck bomb as gunmen stormed an Israeli base at a vital Gaza crossing Thursday, killing five Israelis and wounding five others in an attack that defied peace efforts by new Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas.
And, look at that. The AP is already in the tank for Abbas. That didn't take long. The laughter continues in the piece.
The assault, in which three Palestinians attackers were also killed, was by far the biggest since Abbas won an election Sunday to succeed Yasser Arafat as head of the Palestinian Authority (news - web sites). Abbas has been trying to persuade militant groups like Hamas and Islamic Jihad to agree to a cease-fire, but so far with no success.
Wow, the biggest since Sunday? I am impressed! And, the howls just keep on coming:
The bombing came just hours after Hamas' West Bank leader — known as a relative moderate within Hamas — said it might consider an end to attacks against Israel. Hamas was one of three militant groups that claimed responsibility for the bombing, dubbing it "Shaking Castles."
There you have it. A moderate in Hamas is one who might consider an end to attacks in Israel. It is becoming harder and hardet ot tell the difference between Scrappleface and the AP these days.
Five Israelis Die in Gaza Suicide Bombing
GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip - Palestinian militants set off a large truck bomb as gunmen stormed an Israeli base at a vital Gaza crossing Thursday, killing five Israelis and wounding five others in an attack that defied peace efforts by new Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas.
And, look at that. The AP is already in the tank for Abbas. That didn't take long. The laughter continues in the piece.
The assault, in which three Palestinians attackers were also killed, was by far the biggest since Abbas won an election Sunday to succeed Yasser Arafat as head of the Palestinian Authority (news - web sites). Abbas has been trying to persuade militant groups like Hamas and Islamic Jihad to agree to a cease-fire, but so far with no success.
Wow, the biggest since Sunday? I am impressed! And, the howls just keep on coming:
The bombing came just hours after Hamas' West Bank leader — known as a relative moderate within Hamas — said it might consider an end to attacks against Israel. Hamas was one of three militant groups that claimed responsibility for the bombing, dubbing it "Shaking Castles."
There you have it. A moderate in Hamas is one who might consider an end to attacks in Israel. It is becoming harder and hardet ot tell the difference between Scrappleface and the AP these days.
Tell CAIR to F Off
I have only watched ABC's "The Practice" twice. The second time was the last, because I was beyond pissed at the subject matter of the show, and especially one of the dumbest lines I ever heard uttered in a TV show. The lawyers just had a baby, and the woman said something close to this: "I don't want to have my baby Christened Catholic because I don't want her to be molested when she gets older." I was so pissed, I never watched the show again, which is the appropriate response. Yes, the Catholic Church has done some disgraceful things, and deserves fair criticism, but not that over the top bullshit.
Fox TV Accused of Stereotyping American Muslims
Contrast that with the TV show "24," which had a scene that depicted a Muslim family as terrorists. Of course, CAIR wants to act like this something that Fox made up out of thin air. Just like I had to deal with the story line on "The Practice, CAIR needs to shut up and and deal with the story line on "24." If they want shows like "24" to stop having story lines that depict Muslims as terrorists, then perhaps CAIR should get as outraged at the terrorists who give their religion a bad name. (Of course, Hamas would cut off their funding)
Besides, screenwriters can only change the plot to "Neo-Nazi terrorists" so many times before they look utterly ridiculous.
Fox TV Accused of Stereotyping American Muslims
Contrast that with the TV show "24," which had a scene that depicted a Muslim family as terrorists. Of course, CAIR wants to act like this something that Fox made up out of thin air. Just like I had to deal with the story line on "The Practice, CAIR needs to shut up and and deal with the story line on "24." If they want shows like "24" to stop having story lines that depict Muslims as terrorists, then perhaps CAIR should get as outraged at the terrorists who give their religion a bad name. (Of course, Hamas would cut off their funding)
Besides, screenwriters can only change the plot to "Neo-Nazi terrorists" so many times before they look utterly ridiculous.
Wednesday, January 12, 2005
Thank God for fine soldiers like this
Please take a moment to read the story about a fine American that we lost in Iraq. It is fine soldiers like Sgt. Rafael Peralta who make me convinced that we will win the war on terror.
Sgt. Rafael Peralta, American Hero
Sgt. Rafael Peralta, American Hero
Dopey Royals
I really despise the Teabag Royal Family. (Although I must admit I did like Diana quite a bit) The British Royals are the world's biggest welfare collectors, and, from looking at this picture, it is obvious that Prince Harry has a lot more dollars than sense. (Or, if you will, more pounds than pence)
Harry says sorry for Nazi costume
Is Harry so dumb as to not understand the full meaning of what he did? Of course not. He is crying out for attention. As the younger Prince, and thus a nothing in the line of succession, he hardly ever gets the attention that William gets. That is why he did this. I would bet quite a few quid that he planned for this to happen, and is smiling up and down to himself about all the attention he is getting, and is going to get from this.
Harry says sorry for Nazi costume
Is Harry so dumb as to not understand the full meaning of what he did? Of course not. He is crying out for attention. As the younger Prince, and thus a nothing in the line of succession, he hardly ever gets the attention that William gets. That is why he did this. I would bet quite a few quid that he planned for this to happen, and is smiling up and down to himself about all the attention he is getting, and is going to get from this.
Tuesday, January 11, 2005
Uh, oh...the liberals will be getting the vapors
In an interview with the Washington Times, President Bush said this:
I don't see how you can be president — at least from my perspective, how you can be president, without a — without a relationship with the Lord.
Just watch the liberals go nuts over this. Of course, these will be the same liberals who thought nothing of Kerry's "religious rebirth" during the campaign. I cannot wait to see how the liberals react to this, and watch them throw themselves further into the abyss.
I don't see how you can be president — at least from my perspective, how you can be president, without a — without a relationship with the Lord.
Just watch the liberals go nuts over this. Of course, these will be the same liberals who thought nothing of Kerry's "religious rebirth" during the campaign. I cannot wait to see how the liberals react to this, and watch them throw themselves further into the abyss.
Dead Air America
I just saw this blurb on Drudge:
'AIR AMERICA' RATINGS TURBULENCE IN NY CITY: Surprising many observers who expected it to shine during election season, all-liberal upstart WLIB (1190 AM) -- base station for Al Franken and Janeane Garofalo -- actually headed south, shedding 15% of its summer audience to finish fall at 24th place in just-released ARBITRONS...
The only people who expected Air America to shine during the election season were those who loved what they had to say, and failed to see Air America for what it truly is: A network of talentless hacks.
I have been telling you for months that Air America's leftism is not what is wrong with the network, it is the talent. Al Franken just isn't very funny, and neither is Janeane Garafalo. Really, just look at their resumes. Take a look at Franken's filmography. What a pathetic resume! (And, did Franken do anything memorable on Saturday Night Live?) And here is Garofalo's, which is better than Al Franken's. (That's not saying much)
I listen to that nonsense on Sirius just to see what they are up to from time to time. I tune out pretty quick because they run the same old tired crap over and over again. (Plus, who wants to hear Randi Rhodes discuss our "failed" military strategy? She don't know jack!) There is nothing compelling. What many people don't get is that you don't have to be liked to get ratings. You have to be compelling. I guarantee you that 30-40% of Rush Limbaugh's audience hates his guts. But they find him compelling, and they listen.
The perfect example can be seen in the movie Private Parts, when the market researcher stuns the radio bigwigs when he tells them that the people who hate Stern listen longer than the people who like him. I was in radio a long time, and I was not surprised at all when I saw that scene. If Air America had talent, they would be successful. Hiring a bunch of people who are failed actors was doomed to fail from the start. If they could have bashed Bush and made it interesting, they would have succeeded because people like me would have listened. But nothing in Franken's or Garofalo's career ever suggested they would be interesting to listen to. In fact, it is very likely that they took the jobs because they did not have any better opportunities.
Air America will be gone soon. With Bush re-elected, is there any reason for their investors to keep dumping money into that quagmire?
'AIR AMERICA' RATINGS TURBULENCE IN NY CITY: Surprising many observers who expected it to shine during election season, all-liberal upstart WLIB (1190 AM) -- base station for Al Franken and Janeane Garofalo -- actually headed south, shedding 15% of its summer audience to finish fall at 24th place in just-released ARBITRONS...
The only people who expected Air America to shine during the election season were those who loved what they had to say, and failed to see Air America for what it truly is: A network of talentless hacks.
I have been telling you for months that Air America's leftism is not what is wrong with the network, it is the talent. Al Franken just isn't very funny, and neither is Janeane Garafalo. Really, just look at their resumes. Take a look at Franken's filmography. What a pathetic resume! (And, did Franken do anything memorable on Saturday Night Live?) And here is Garofalo's, which is better than Al Franken's. (That's not saying much)
I listen to that nonsense on Sirius just to see what they are up to from time to time. I tune out pretty quick because they run the same old tired crap over and over again. (Plus, who wants to hear Randi Rhodes discuss our "failed" military strategy? She don't know jack!) There is nothing compelling. What many people don't get is that you don't have to be liked to get ratings. You have to be compelling. I guarantee you that 30-40% of Rush Limbaugh's audience hates his guts. But they find him compelling, and they listen.
The perfect example can be seen in the movie Private Parts, when the market researcher stuns the radio bigwigs when he tells them that the people who hate Stern listen longer than the people who like him. I was in radio a long time, and I was not surprised at all when I saw that scene. If Air America had talent, they would be successful. Hiring a bunch of people who are failed actors was doomed to fail from the start. If they could have bashed Bush and made it interesting, they would have succeeded because people like me would have listened. But nothing in Franken's or Garofalo's career ever suggested they would be interesting to listen to. In fact, it is very likely that they took the jobs because they did not have any better opportunities.
Air America will be gone soon. With Bush re-elected, is there any reason for their investors to keep dumping money into that quagmire?
The ACLU has one Constitution, we have another
Via Best of the Web Today comes this howler from those dopes at the ACLU. Read carefully:
It is probably no accident that freedom of speech is the first freedom mentioned in the First Amendment: "Congress shall make no law...abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press, or of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances." The Constitution's framers believed that freedom of inquiry and liberty of expression were the hallmarks of a democratic society.
That's not the same First Amendment that the rest of America has. Here is ours:
Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.
So, using the ACLU's logic, religion must be the "hallmark of a democratic society," because religion is actually mentioned first in the First Amendment. How do you like that? The ACLU claims to be the stauchest defenders of the Constitution, yet they can't even honestly tell you what it says.
One more thing about the ACLU, right from their own home page:
We are nonprofit and nonpartisan...
Interesting. Yet, they always seem to be against President Bush's nominees. The press release opposing (yeah, I know they say they have no position, but let's get real here) the nomination of Michael Chertoff for Homeland Security was out about 5 minutes after the announcement.
It is probably no accident that freedom of speech is the first freedom mentioned in the First Amendment: "Congress shall make no law...abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press, or of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances." The Constitution's framers believed that freedom of inquiry and liberty of expression were the hallmarks of a democratic society.
That's not the same First Amendment that the rest of America has. Here is ours:
Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.
So, using the ACLU's logic, religion must be the "hallmark of a democratic society," because religion is actually mentioned first in the First Amendment. How do you like that? The ACLU claims to be the stauchest defenders of the Constitution, yet they can't even honestly tell you what it says.
One more thing about the ACLU, right from their own home page:
We are nonprofit and nonpartisan...
Interesting. Yet, they always seem to be against President Bush's nominees. The press release opposing (yeah, I know they say they have no position, but let's get real here) the nomination of Michael Chertoff for Homeland Security was out about 5 minutes after the announcement.
Laugh of the week
The leftist scum that permeate our country are so pathetic, even a top satirist could not make up this website:
Bush Black Out
Their goal is to get you to "black out" your website on January 20th in protest of Bush's inauguration. They give you some wonderful images to use. Here's my favorite:
Funny how democracy is dead when their guy lost. And, perhaps they should get their dates in order. 1787 (or 1789 if you want to get real technical) - 2005 would be more appropriate.
This is begging for a Photoshop. If you have time to kill, make up a quick one and send it to me. I'll post it right away, and like Mr. Hand says, "giving you full credit of course."
Bush Black Out
Their goal is to get you to "black out" your website on January 20th in protest of Bush's inauguration. They give you some wonderful images to use. Here's my favorite:
Funny how democracy is dead when their guy lost. And, perhaps they should get their dates in order. 1787 (or 1789 if you want to get real technical) - 2005 would be more appropriate.
This is begging for a Photoshop. If you have time to kill, make up a quick one and send it to me. I'll post it right away, and like Mr. Hand says, "giving you full credit of course."
Monday, January 10, 2005
This has to be a joke
The FOX Blocker?
Priced at JUST $8.95, the FOXBlocker is a wonderful way of telling the advertisers at FOX News that you are no longer interested in being exposed to right wing propaganda.
If this is serious, I am sure there are many dopey ass liberals who will buy it. Perhaps they should just hit the menu in their TV set and clear FOX's channel off the statins that show up when you flip channels, just like I have done with HGTV, Lifetime, and Discovery Health channel.
Priced at JUST $8.95, the FOXBlocker is a wonderful way of telling the advertisers at FOX News that you are no longer interested in being exposed to right wing propaganda.
If this is serious, I am sure there are many dopey ass liberals who will buy it. Perhaps they should just hit the menu in their TV set and clear FOX's channel off the statins that show up when you flip channels, just like I have done with HGTV, Lifetime, and Discovery Health channel.
Dan Blather
The report is out, and you can get incredible analysis from Power Line, RatherBiased, and, when the DOS attack is stopped, Little Green Footballs. I will only add this:
- I laughed my ass off when I heard Alan Colmes tease Hannity and Colmes tonight by saying, "Carl Bernstein, no stranger to Presidential scandals, on the show tonight." (or something close to that) You just gotta love the balls of liberals. Even now, after all that has happened, Colmes has to hold out this as a Bush scandal. Colmes probably still thinks that Clinton "did not have sex with that woman."
- The report is really meaningless. We already know what they told us, and we already know that the report leaves out or glosses over the obvious, such as the fact that Rather and CBS are as politically biased as could be. However, I must give CBS credit for releasing it on a Monday morning, allowing a full vetting, rather than sneaking it out late on a Friday. Also, Mary Mapes got what she deserved.
- That Rather did not get fired is immaterial. His reputation is shot, gone, kaput, done, finished. That is the worst thing that could happen to him. Rather's fine career is tainted forever, and few will remember all the great reporting he did over the years, especially early in his career.
Take a moment to remember the enormity of what CBS did. They tried to destroy President Bush with false documents, to perpetrate a fraud on the entire American public because they wanted John Kerry to be elected President. A pure Soviet tactic. And, many intelligent people make total jackasses out of themselves to try and keep the story alive, or to lend it credence. (i.e. New York Times headline, "Fake but accurate.") And, these dopes, especially Mapes, didn't even get themselves a $250,000 check for promoting Kerry's agenda!!
The MSM is like a former friend of mine. He was out cheating on his girlfriend for a year. He thought that she was totally oblivious, and had no idea what he was up to. He laughed and smirked at his own slyness. One day, he came home from work, and the house was cleaned out, along with the bank accounts. She left him a note that simply said, "I'm not the fool you think I am." He was shocked and got all upset at a poker game, telling us how sorry he was, etc. I felt like saying, "What did you expect, you idiot?" I tell you this story for you to understand what the MSM thinks of us. They think we are dopes who take everything they say as the gospel. And they are shocked when we hold them to account, or just simply tune out. Ratings are down, circulation is down, and the blogosphere has some real juice. The MSM can berate blogs all they want, but most blogs (like mine) are done by people who love to exercise their free speech rights, and want to engage in the debates of the day. And, most, like me, don't make dime one for doing it.
- I laughed my ass off when I heard Alan Colmes tease Hannity and Colmes tonight by saying, "Carl Bernstein, no stranger to Presidential scandals, on the show tonight." (or something close to that) You just gotta love the balls of liberals. Even now, after all that has happened, Colmes has to hold out this as a Bush scandal. Colmes probably still thinks that Clinton "did not have sex with that woman."
- The report is really meaningless. We already know what they told us, and we already know that the report leaves out or glosses over the obvious, such as the fact that Rather and CBS are as politically biased as could be. However, I must give CBS credit for releasing it on a Monday morning, allowing a full vetting, rather than sneaking it out late on a Friday. Also, Mary Mapes got what she deserved.
- That Rather did not get fired is immaterial. His reputation is shot, gone, kaput, done, finished. That is the worst thing that could happen to him. Rather's fine career is tainted forever, and few will remember all the great reporting he did over the years, especially early in his career.
Take a moment to remember the enormity of what CBS did. They tried to destroy President Bush with false documents, to perpetrate a fraud on the entire American public because they wanted John Kerry to be elected President. A pure Soviet tactic. And, many intelligent people make total jackasses out of themselves to try and keep the story alive, or to lend it credence. (i.e. New York Times headline, "Fake but accurate.") And, these dopes, especially Mapes, didn't even get themselves a $250,000 check for promoting Kerry's agenda!!
The MSM is like a former friend of mine. He was out cheating on his girlfriend for a year. He thought that she was totally oblivious, and had no idea what he was up to. He laughed and smirked at his own slyness. One day, he came home from work, and the house was cleaned out, along with the bank accounts. She left him a note that simply said, "I'm not the fool you think I am." He was shocked and got all upset at a poker game, telling us how sorry he was, etc. I felt like saying, "What did you expect, you idiot?" I tell you this story for you to understand what the MSM thinks of us. They think we are dopes who take everything they say as the gospel. And they are shocked when we hold them to account, or just simply tune out. Ratings are down, circulation is down, and the blogosphere has some real juice. The MSM can berate blogs all they want, but most blogs (like mine) are done by people who love to exercise their free speech rights, and want to engage in the debates of the day. And, most, like me, don't make dime one for doing it.
Sunday, January 09, 2005
Randy Moss and more
First off, what's the deal with Randy Moss' 'fro? What, is he trying out for the lead in Undercover Brother 2?
And, what the hell was that crap Moss pulled in the end zone? (If you didn't see it, Moss caught a TD pass, and then ran next to the goal post, stopped, and pantiomimed mooning the fans, and wiping his ass with the goal post) I expect that the comissioner will unceremoniously remove $75,000 from Moss' wallet for that stunt. And, what is the deal with ESPN getting all high-brow and refusing to show it?
It doesn't matter for the Vikings. They will go into Philly next week and get stomped. No way they get the turnovers they got this week, and the Eagles secondary, with 3 Pro-Bowlers, is much better than the Packers.
If you are a Packers fan, perhaps it is time that you come to terms with the reality that Brett Favre is on his last legs. That "gunslinger" schtick does not work anymore. Don't get me wrong. I love watching the guy play, and have for a long time. He's an all-timer, and a sure-fire first ballot hall of famer. But the fact is that he is done.
If you are a Broncos fan, say farewell to Jake Plummer. That guy just isn't good enough. He will never take the Broncos anywhere. And, funny how much of a "genius" Mike Shanahan isn't when John Elway isn't under center.
And, the Colts have a real shot at winning next week against the Patriots. But they won't. Then again, I picked only 1 game right this weekend, so what do I know?
Go Birds!!!
And, what the hell was that crap Moss pulled in the end zone? (If you didn't see it, Moss caught a TD pass, and then ran next to the goal post, stopped, and pantiomimed mooning the fans, and wiping his ass with the goal post) I expect that the comissioner will unceremoniously remove $75,000 from Moss' wallet for that stunt. And, what is the deal with ESPN getting all high-brow and refusing to show it?
It doesn't matter for the Vikings. They will go into Philly next week and get stomped. No way they get the turnovers they got this week, and the Eagles secondary, with 3 Pro-Bowlers, is much better than the Packers.
If you are a Packers fan, perhaps it is time that you come to terms with the reality that Brett Favre is on his last legs. That "gunslinger" schtick does not work anymore. Don't get me wrong. I love watching the guy play, and have for a long time. He's an all-timer, and a sure-fire first ballot hall of famer. But the fact is that he is done.
If you are a Broncos fan, say farewell to Jake Plummer. That guy just isn't good enough. He will never take the Broncos anywhere. And, funny how much of a "genius" Mike Shanahan isn't when John Elway isn't under center.
And, the Colts have a real shot at winning next week against the Patriots. But they won't. Then again, I picked only 1 game right this weekend, so what do I know?
Go Birds!!!
Kerry in Palestine
Via Little Green Footballs, take a good look at this picture, and read the ridiculous caption below it.
Former U.S. presidential candidate Senator John Kerry (D-MA), an election observer, waves as he passes a Palestinian security guard on his way to meet Palestinian Prime Minister Ahmed Qurie in the West Bank city of Ramallah January 9, 2005. Palestinians voted on Sunday for a successor to Yasser Arafat and looked likely to elect Mahmoud Abbas, a pragmatist who has promised to revive a peace process with Israel after years of bloodshed. REUTERS/David Furst
The part about Abbas being a "pragmatist" who is looking for peace with Israel is pure bullshit, we all know that. My point is here, just look at Kerry. Not a bit concerned that there is a Palestinian holding an automatic weapon a few feet from him. No fear that they might try to kill him. And, why should he fear? Those terrorist scum know who their friends are.
As if you needed more proof, this picture tells you all you need to know about what a Kerry presidency would have been all about.
In my dreams, I wish a reporter would ask him this: "Senator, which election do you feel was more legitimate, the American or the Palestinian?"
Former U.S. presidential candidate Senator John Kerry (D-MA), an election observer, waves as he passes a Palestinian security guard on his way to meet Palestinian Prime Minister Ahmed Qurie in the West Bank city of Ramallah January 9, 2005. Palestinians voted on Sunday for a successor to Yasser Arafat and looked likely to elect Mahmoud Abbas, a pragmatist who has promised to revive a peace process with Israel after years of bloodshed. REUTERS/David Furst
The part about Abbas being a "pragmatist" who is looking for peace with Israel is pure bullshit, we all know that. My point is here, just look at Kerry. Not a bit concerned that there is a Palestinian holding an automatic weapon a few feet from him. No fear that they might try to kill him. And, why should he fear? Those terrorist scum know who their friends are.
As if you needed more proof, this picture tells you all you need to know about what a Kerry presidency would have been all about.
In my dreams, I wish a reporter would ask him this: "Senator, which election do you feel was more legitimate, the American or the Palestinian?"
This is shocking
I haven't been this stunned about an election result since Saddam was re-elected with 99% of the vote.
Abbas Claims Victory in Poll to Succeed Arafat
RAMALLAH, West Bank (Reuters) - Mahmoud Abbas won a landslide victory on Sunday in a Palestinian election to succeed Yasser Arafat, securing a strong mandate to talk peace with Israel after years of bloodshed and end corruption at home.
Mandate for peace? Who are they kidding? This guy is every bit as vile as Arafat, and will act accordingly.
If you can stomach it, read the whole article. It is laughable how al-Reuters treats this as a more legitimate election than ours.
Abbas Claims Victory in Poll to Succeed Arafat
RAMALLAH, West Bank (Reuters) - Mahmoud Abbas won a landslide victory on Sunday in a Palestinian election to succeed Yasser Arafat, securing a strong mandate to talk peace with Israel after years of bloodshed and end corruption at home.
Mandate for peace? Who are they kidding? This guy is every bit as vile as Arafat, and will act accordingly.
If you can stomach it, read the whole article. It is laughable how al-Reuters treats this as a more legitimate election than ours.
Saturday, January 08, 2005
Jets-Chargers
What a game. The Chargers did not deserve to lose. But they did, because of the gutlessness of Coach of the Year Marty Schottenheimer. This time, Schottenheimer cannot blame Ernest Byner's fumble at the goal line, Elway's 98-yard drive, or Lynn Elliot's 3 missed field goals. Schottenheimer himself blew the game when he had his team stop playing when they got inside the 25-yard line in overtime. That kind of "play not to lose" mentality permeates an entire team. Calling 3 cheap-ass runs into the line, and playing for the field goal, told the team he had little confidence in them. As such, the insecurity permeated to the kicker. Nate Kaeding missed the kick, and the Jets took advantage.
A strange thing that NFL. Today, we saw a pathetic Rams team lose to an even more pathetic Seahawks team, and then we watched a linguni-armed Chad Pennington lead a lousy Jets team to victory over a good Chargers team. Yet, both games were top-notch, and once again the NFL Playoffs lived up to their billing.
I sat on my bump and watched both games in their entirety. I will do the same tomorrow. I'll bet many of you did the same today, and will do the same tomorrow.
A strange thing that NFL. Today, we saw a pathetic Rams team lose to an even more pathetic Seahawks team, and then we watched a linguni-armed Chad Pennington lead a lousy Jets team to victory over a good Chargers team. Yet, both games were top-notch, and once again the NFL Playoffs lived up to their billing.
I sat on my bump and watched both games in their entirety. I will do the same tomorrow. I'll bet many of you did the same today, and will do the same tomorrow.
The nerve of the U.N.
The United Nations has released an "audit" of the Oil-for-Food scam, and there is nothing about how Saddam (and many other corrupt scum) used the program to fill his coffers to the tune of billions. But, in a sneaky bit of Kofi ass-covering, the U.N.'s "audit" shows how some contractors were overcharging them.
AP: U.N. Audits Show Oil-For-Food Bilking
NEW YORK - Internal audits conducted by the United Nations of its oil-for-food program revealed lapses in U.N. oversight that allowed contractors to overcharge by hundreds of thousands of dollars, according to copies obtained by The Associated Press.
Two of the audits examined irregularities including overcharging by two companies that were hired to monitor oil sales and the import of humanitarian goods under the program. Another detailed financial mismanagement by a U.N. agency administering humanitarian aid under the program...
Now, here's is where the "audit" gets really f'n slick.
The audits of the two companies hired by the United Nations reveal "overpayments, a total lack of U.N. verification of contractor duties performed, and no-bid procedures for additional contracts and extensions," a spokesman for the House International Relations Committee said on condition of anonymity...
Another report from July 21, 1999, detailed possible overpayments of more than $3 million to London-based Lloyd's Register Inspection Ltd., which was hired to inspect and monitor humanitarian goods as they were imported into Iraq...
In 1998 Lloyd's Register pulled out of the contract and was a replaced by another company, Cotecna Inspection S.A., a Swiss company, which has also been the subject of investigations of the U.N. program.
What a crock!! Kofi Annan replaced Lloyd's Register with Cotecna, a company that had Kofi Annan's son Kojo on the payroll!! How slick of them to show that the company that was replaced was overcharging them, giving themselves a ready-made response to anyone who might bring up how much Kojo Annan made in the scam.
Imagine if we had an honest media. The U.N. would never get away with this. They wouldn't even try it if they didn't already know that the AP, Reuters, and the New York Times would never bother to vet anything they say.
AP: U.N. Audits Show Oil-For-Food Bilking
NEW YORK - Internal audits conducted by the United Nations of its oil-for-food program revealed lapses in U.N. oversight that allowed contractors to overcharge by hundreds of thousands of dollars, according to copies obtained by The Associated Press.
Two of the audits examined irregularities including overcharging by two companies that were hired to monitor oil sales and the import of humanitarian goods under the program. Another detailed financial mismanagement by a U.N. agency administering humanitarian aid under the program...
Now, here's is where the "audit" gets really f'n slick.
The audits of the two companies hired by the United Nations reveal "overpayments, a total lack of U.N. verification of contractor duties performed, and no-bid procedures for additional contracts and extensions," a spokesman for the House International Relations Committee said on condition of anonymity...
Another report from July 21, 1999, detailed possible overpayments of more than $3 million to London-based Lloyd's Register Inspection Ltd., which was hired to inspect and monitor humanitarian goods as they were imported into Iraq...
In 1998 Lloyd's Register pulled out of the contract and was a replaced by another company, Cotecna Inspection S.A., a Swiss company, which has also been the subject of investigations of the U.N. program.
What a crock!! Kofi Annan replaced Lloyd's Register with Cotecna, a company that had Kofi Annan's son Kojo on the payroll!! How slick of them to show that the company that was replaced was overcharging them, giving themselves a ready-made response to anyone who might bring up how much Kojo Annan made in the scam.
Imagine if we had an honest media. The U.N. would never get away with this. They wouldn't even try it if they didn't already know that the AP, Reuters, and the New York Times would never bother to vet anything they say.
Rams-Seahawks game
Is there a biggest tool in football than Rams' coach Mike Martz? I can hardly remember watching anyone that I purely disliked more than him. The Rams are a joke, and Martz is the head clown. I can hardly wait for the Rams to go into Philly next week and get jacked up by the Eagles.
Sgt. Hancock is a bad moth..shut your mouth
Take a moment to read about Sgt. Herbert B. Hancock, one of the fine Marines who provide our freedom on a daily basis.
Marine sniper credited with longest confirmed kill in Iraq
Marine sniper credited with longest confirmed kill in Iraq
Friday, January 07, 2005
NFL Playoff Predictions
Seahawks over Rams
Chargers over Jets
Colts over Broncos
Packers over Vikings
Chargers over Jets
Colts over Broncos
Packers over Vikings
Liberal racism yet again
What Armstrong Williams did was wrong, but he doesn't deserve the treatment he is recieving from some blogger named Steve Gillard. He should have just called Williams a nigger like he wants to. He basically did in his post. (Also, who refers to someone as a "Negro" these days?)
Isn't it amazing to see the overt racism coming from liberals today?
Isn't it amazing to see the overt racism coming from liberals today?
Disgrace of the day
The public schools are run by a bunch of tools. You will not believe this story. Couldn't a couple of teachers carried these guys out?
[hat tip: mASS BACKWARDS]
[hat tip: mASS BACKWARDS]
The Associated Press with more comedy
I love the AP because they are a great source for comedy. You have to wonder what world these people are living in, and how they can write things like this with a straight face.
AP Poll Finds Americans Split About Bush
WASHINGTON - President Bush prepares to start his second term with an ambitious list of tasks but also a public evenly split about his job performance, an Associated Press poll found.
Bush's approval rating is at 49 percent in the AP poll, with 49 percent disapproving. His job approval is in the high 40s in several other recent polls — as low as any job approval rating for a re-elected president at the start of the second term in more than 50 years.
Anything to bash Bush. Anything. I would be ashamed to write or publish an article like this, because the only poll that matters happened about 100 days ago. The laughs continue:
Presidents Reagan and Clinton had job approval ratings near six in 10 just before their inauguration for a second term, according to Gallup polls.
That sounds right about Reagan, because he did get 59% of the vote for re-election. But the Clinton mention is laughable because he won re-election with only 49% of the vote. Funny how his approval ratings were so much higher than his actual vote total.
AP Poll Finds Americans Split About Bush
WASHINGTON - President Bush prepares to start his second term with an ambitious list of tasks but also a public evenly split about his job performance, an Associated Press poll found.
Bush's approval rating is at 49 percent in the AP poll, with 49 percent disapproving. His job approval is in the high 40s in several other recent polls — as low as any job approval rating for a re-elected president at the start of the second term in more than 50 years.
Anything to bash Bush. Anything. I would be ashamed to write or publish an article like this, because the only poll that matters happened about 100 days ago. The laughs continue:
Presidents Reagan and Clinton had job approval ratings near six in 10 just before their inauguration for a second term, according to Gallup polls.
That sounds right about Reagan, because he did get 59% of the vote for re-election. But the Clinton mention is laughable because he won re-election with only 49% of the vote. Funny how his approval ratings were so much higher than his actual vote total.
Thursday, January 06, 2005
New Year, Same Old Kerry
The Senate is back in session this week, and where's John Kerry? Why, in Baghdad, bashing Bush. First, get this howler from the San Francisco Chronicle, starting with the headline:
Kerry cheered in Baghdad, decries Bush team's 'blunders' - Once criticized for war stance, he says force alone won't win
Now, read into the story:
Baghdad -- Sen. John Kerry, whose seemingly shifting positions on the U.S. war in Iraq plagued him throughout his presidential campaign, came to this war- torn capital Wednesday to see for himself whether the country was moving toward stability or deeper into chaos.
Kerry, who repeatedly charged during the presidential campaign that President Bush had botched the war effort, was greeted warmly by U.S. soldiers in Baghdad.
Now which is it, cheered or greeted warmly? There is a difference. I have not seen any video of this. If there is video of him being cheered by the troops, I am quite sure it would be papered all over the networks. (If you see it on TV, let me know when and where, or if there is a link, let me know.)
Read the article. The only times that he met with troops that is mentioned is some he saw in a restaurant, and a group of 20 from his home state. What kind of reporting is this? And, you just have to wonder, with the Iraqi elections 3 weeks away, why Kerry is in Iraq bashing-Bush. Like or not, it sure seems to be like he is encouraging our enemies, which is the norm for Jean Francois.
Let's take a look at what other alleged news outlets said:
Associated Press - No mention of cheering, only Kerry meeting with troops from Massachusetts.
Washington Post - No mention of cheering at all.
Boston Globe - Same reporter as the SF Chronicle, but the greeted warmly part is missing. Hmmm.
Makes you wonder, doesn't it? Did the SF Chronicle add that nonsense in, or did the Boston Globe edit it out? I wish I knew. I'd bet on the SF Chronicle.
Kerry cheered in Baghdad, decries Bush team's 'blunders' - Once criticized for war stance, he says force alone won't win
Now, read into the story:
Baghdad -- Sen. John Kerry, whose seemingly shifting positions on the U.S. war in Iraq plagued him throughout his presidential campaign, came to this war- torn capital Wednesday to see for himself whether the country was moving toward stability or deeper into chaos.
Kerry, who repeatedly charged during the presidential campaign that President Bush had botched the war effort, was greeted warmly by U.S. soldiers in Baghdad.
Now which is it, cheered or greeted warmly? There is a difference. I have not seen any video of this. If there is video of him being cheered by the troops, I am quite sure it would be papered all over the networks. (If you see it on TV, let me know when and where, or if there is a link, let me know.)
Read the article. The only times that he met with troops that is mentioned is some he saw in a restaurant, and a group of 20 from his home state. What kind of reporting is this? And, you just have to wonder, with the Iraqi elections 3 weeks away, why Kerry is in Iraq bashing-Bush. Like or not, it sure seems to be like he is encouraging our enemies, which is the norm for Jean Francois.
Let's take a look at what other alleged news outlets said:
Associated Press - No mention of cheering, only Kerry meeting with troops from Massachusetts.
Washington Post - No mention of cheering at all.
Boston Globe - Same reporter as the SF Chronicle, but the greeted warmly part is missing. Hmmm.
Makes you wonder, doesn't it? Did the SF Chronicle add that nonsense in, or did the Boston Globe edit it out? I wish I knew. I'd bet on the SF Chronicle.
The most important civil rights case this year
The most important civil rights case in years is coming to the Supreme Court. No, it isn't on affirmative action, or those poor innocents goat herders shepherded to Guantanamo Bay by the evil and incompetent Bush. It is about the property rights that are of the utmost importance in a free society. If you don't truly own your property, you aren't truly free.
Tax-hungry politicans want to throw you out of your home against your will based on eminent domain. Only these days, they want you out so they can get more tax dollars, and they argue that higher tax revenues are a valid public purpose, which will allow them to kick you out and hand you a check for fair market value. Take a moment to read this article:
House not for sale - Can the government force you to sell your house in the name of new development
I do not want to sound over-dramatic like those race-hustlers and terror-apologists, but our freedom is truly at stake here when the Supreme Court decides Kelo v. City of New London later this year.
If the court rules for New London, the results will be disasterous. No longer will a private developer have to fork over what it takes to get someone to sell their home. They can just go to the friendly tax-and-spend politicians to force people to sell at "market value." But what is market value? Surely, market value drops when you can only sell it to the city. And, market value rises when a developer wants (or is even speculated to want) your property. And, we will all suffer for it. You need to keep your eye on this case. Few cases that come before the Supreme Court affect this many people.
One part of the article I found very interesting:
Tranter says the developer has signed contracts with 65 residents to buy their property for no less than 25 percent above market value, pending the outcome of the Gamble's appeal.
Comprehend that for a moment. A developer is ready to pay 25% over market value, but only if he must to secure the property. This is exactly how things are supposed to work in this country!
Take note of this my friends. I don't think I can emphasize to you enough how important this case is.
Tax-hungry politicans want to throw you out of your home against your will based on eminent domain. Only these days, they want you out so they can get more tax dollars, and they argue that higher tax revenues are a valid public purpose, which will allow them to kick you out and hand you a check for fair market value. Take a moment to read this article:
House not for sale - Can the government force you to sell your house in the name of new development
I do not want to sound over-dramatic like those race-hustlers and terror-apologists, but our freedom is truly at stake here when the Supreme Court decides Kelo v. City of New London later this year.
If the court rules for New London, the results will be disasterous. No longer will a private developer have to fork over what it takes to get someone to sell their home. They can just go to the friendly tax-and-spend politicians to force people to sell at "market value." But what is market value? Surely, market value drops when you can only sell it to the city. And, market value rises when a developer wants (or is even speculated to want) your property. And, we will all suffer for it. You need to keep your eye on this case. Few cases that come before the Supreme Court affect this many people.
One part of the article I found very interesting:
Tranter says the developer has signed contracts with 65 residents to buy their property for no less than 25 percent above market value, pending the outcome of the Gamble's appeal.
Comprehend that for a moment. A developer is ready to pay 25% over market value, but only if he must to secure the property. This is exactly how things are supposed to work in this country!
Take note of this my friends. I don't think I can emphasize to you enough how important this case is.
Wednesday, January 05, 2005
Response to a comment
In this thread, "Sonny Corleone" left this comment:
i could never figure out how the older guys in my law school class could just give up their social lives so they could study law and raise kids at the same time. of course, i understand very well now. best for 2005, dude.
I think it is much easier for me to go to law school while raising a daughter than it would have been if I went as a single guy. The reasons are simple: No girl is calling me at 11:00 p.m. to come over the night before a paper is due. Thus, the distractions facing a single guy are not a part of my life. Plus, how well I do will determine how good of a lofe my daughter will have. As "Sonny" surely understands now, that motivation goes a long way. I don't envy my younger classmates who are good-looking and popular, not in the least.
A piece of advice for Sonny: Don't let yourself get boxed in at a toll booth.
i could never figure out how the older guys in my law school class could just give up their social lives so they could study law and raise kids at the same time. of course, i understand very well now. best for 2005, dude.
I think it is much easier for me to go to law school while raising a daughter than it would have been if I went as a single guy. The reasons are simple: No girl is calling me at 11:00 p.m. to come over the night before a paper is due. Thus, the distractions facing a single guy are not a part of my life. Plus, how well I do will determine how good of a lofe my daughter will have. As "Sonny" surely understands now, that motivation goes a long way. I don't envy my younger classmates who are good-looking and popular, not in the least.
A piece of advice for Sonny: Don't let yourself get boxed in at a toll booth.
Gee, I wonder where they got that idea?
Muslims decry '24' depiction
The first new episode this season of Fox's "24" has yet to hit the screen and already the network has offended a Muslim group.
After viewing a portion of the first episode included on a DVD in Entertainment Weekly, officials from the Council on American-Islamic Relations expressed dismay at the depiction of a Muslim family.
"At first I was shocked," organization spokeswoman Rabiah Ahmed told the Daily News. "In this particular case, they show an American-Muslim family and they portray them as terrorists."
Ahmed was alerted to the 24-minute promotional DVD earlier this week.
At issue is a scene in which a teenager helps his parents plot to kill Americans.
"What we will accomplish today will change the world," the father tells the son over breakfast. "We are fortunate that our family has been chosen to do this."
Ahmed said the scene "casts a cloud of suspicion over every American-Muslim family out there."
Uh, no it doesn't. We know the difference. A TV show plot isn't going to make people think that all Muslims are terrorists. Perhaps CAIR should concentrate on terrorists themselves, who are the ones making Islam look bad. (Of course, if they did that, their funding would dry up) Frankly, does anyone outside of the liberal media give a damn what CAIR says?
Consider this: Remember the spate of abortion clinic bombings and the murder of abortion doctors by people who did it in the name of Christianity? That doesn't exist anymore. You know why? Because there were no ready-made apologists for them, and people like me who are both Christian and anti-abortion did not support them in the least. Perhaps the Muslim apologists could learn something from that.
The first new episode this season of Fox's "24" has yet to hit the screen and already the network has offended a Muslim group.
After viewing a portion of the first episode included on a DVD in Entertainment Weekly, officials from the Council on American-Islamic Relations expressed dismay at the depiction of a Muslim family.
"At first I was shocked," organization spokeswoman Rabiah Ahmed told the Daily News. "In this particular case, they show an American-Muslim family and they portray them as terrorists."
Ahmed was alerted to the 24-minute promotional DVD earlier this week.
At issue is a scene in which a teenager helps his parents plot to kill Americans.
"What we will accomplish today will change the world," the father tells the son over breakfast. "We are fortunate that our family has been chosen to do this."
Ahmed said the scene "casts a cloud of suspicion over every American-Muslim family out there."
Uh, no it doesn't. We know the difference. A TV show plot isn't going to make people think that all Muslims are terrorists. Perhaps CAIR should concentrate on terrorists themselves, who are the ones making Islam look bad. (Of course, if they did that, their funding would dry up) Frankly, does anyone outside of the liberal media give a damn what CAIR says?
Consider this: Remember the spate of abortion clinic bombings and the murder of abortion doctors by people who did it in the name of Christianity? That doesn't exist anymore. You know why? Because there were no ready-made apologists for them, and people like me who are both Christian and anti-abortion did not support them in the least. Perhaps the Muslim apologists could learn something from that.
Ah, the sweet irony
I could not help but laugh for an hour after I read this:
UC Law School Needs to Privatize, Dean Says
BERKELEY — Christopher Edley Jr.'s "single most important observation" in his first year as dean of UC Berkeley's Boalt Hall School of Law is this: "People in California are slightly crazy."
Edley isn't talking about the colorful characters on and around the Berkeley campus. What is crazy, he says, is the way California has scaled back spending on education.
From "leading the nation and the world with a model of a world-class education for everyone," the former Harvard law professor said, the state has settled for "something like 'better than Mississippi.' "
What concerns him most immediately is the condition of his law school, one of the brightest jewels in the UC crown, which is now facing serious problems.
The irony is too delicious. In liberal law schools like the one I attend, there is no problem that doesn't require a government solution. I just find it much too funny when a liberal wacko joint like Berkeley admits that the problem with depending on government is that you can't depend on them. I agree with the Dean, Berkeley should be privatized. I only wish this "look somewhere other than the government" attitude would prevail throughout. Of course, I know better.
UC Law School Needs to Privatize, Dean Says
BERKELEY — Christopher Edley Jr.'s "single most important observation" in his first year as dean of UC Berkeley's Boalt Hall School of Law is this: "People in California are slightly crazy."
Edley isn't talking about the colorful characters on and around the Berkeley campus. What is crazy, he says, is the way California has scaled back spending on education.
From "leading the nation and the world with a model of a world-class education for everyone," the former Harvard law professor said, the state has settled for "something like 'better than Mississippi.' "
What concerns him most immediately is the condition of his law school, one of the brightest jewels in the UC crown, which is now facing serious problems.
The irony is too delicious. In liberal law schools like the one I attend, there is no problem that doesn't require a government solution. I just find it much too funny when a liberal wacko joint like Berkeley admits that the problem with depending on government is that you can't depend on them. I agree with the Dean, Berkeley should be privatized. I only wish this "look somewhere other than the government" attitude would prevail throughout. Of course, I know better.
Wing Bowl in Philly
One of the things I miss about living in Philly is WIng Bowl, an annual event held the Friday before the Super Bowl, by the local sports radio station 610 WIP. Basically, it is a wing-eating contest held at 6:00 in the morning in front of 20,000 people. If you have some time to kill, watch some of the video clips on this page. Some of the eating stunts will have you laughing for a week.
For example, here is what people ate to qualify:
- 4 lbs. yogurt in 1:40.
- 5 lbs. of matzah balls in 5:20.
- 6 lbs spinach in 1:19.
- 5 lbs. cottage cheese in 2:20.
- 2 lbs. shrimp with 160 mealworms.
And, here is what some of the sad sacks who didn't qualify attempted to do:
- 4 lbs. cheesecake in 9 mins.
- 5 onions in 12 mins.
- 60 shrimp in 43 secs.
- 3 cans of corn in 48 sec.
Only in Philly can something like Wing Bowl happen.
For example, here is what people ate to qualify:
- 4 lbs. yogurt in 1:40.
- 5 lbs. of matzah balls in 5:20.
- 6 lbs spinach in 1:19.
- 5 lbs. cottage cheese in 2:20.
- 2 lbs. shrimp with 160 mealworms.
And, here is what some of the sad sacks who didn't qualify attempted to do:
- 4 lbs. cheesecake in 9 mins.
- 5 onions in 12 mins.
- 60 shrimp in 43 secs.
- 3 cans of corn in 48 sec.
Only in Philly can something like Wing Bowl happen.
Vile story of the week
I was flying back to Albuquerque from Philly yesterday, and read perhaps the most disgusting story I've read in a while. You may want to scroll past this part.
Rapist-murderer's words stun courtroom
One of the city's most vile young murderers stood up in court yesterday - all baby-faced and finely attired, fresh from pleading guilty to three first-degree murders, rape and 12 burglaries - to make a cold declaration that won't soon be forgotten:
The whole incident was disturbing, to say the least, but this part shows the inhumanity of this dirtbag:
Back down in the basement, Brown noticed that when the girl's mother fell from the fatal gunshot, "her butt was sticking up in the air." He found this somehow irresistible, so he raped her.
This man should rot in hell.
Rapist-murderer's words stun courtroom
One of the city's most vile young murderers stood up in court yesterday - all baby-faced and finely attired, fresh from pleading guilty to three first-degree murders, rape and 12 burglaries - to make a cold declaration that won't soon be forgotten:
The whole incident was disturbing, to say the least, but this part shows the inhumanity of this dirtbag:
Back down in the basement, Brown noticed that when the girl's mother fell from the fatal gunshot, "her butt was sticking up in the air." He found this somehow irresistible, so he raped her.
This man should rot in hell.
Gonzales hearing
The confirmation hearing for Alberto Gonzales for Attorney General should be a lot of fun. I can't wait to see how the Democrats attempt to vilify Gonzales about the torture memo while not looking like they are carrying the bag for our enemies.
I think the hearing will fail to live up to the hype. It is a lot easier to vilify a Robert Bork when no one really knows, understands, or cares about what a judge has done in his career. However, when it comes to dealing with terorists, Americans who are not card-carrying ACLU scum or members of that clown organization People for the Amercian Way aren't much concerned about the sensibilities of terrorists. (However, I find it interesting that Ralph Neas' clown group is tempered in their opposition of Gonzales, as is the ACLU.)
Just take a look at the Democrats' witness list, a litany of liberal jokers. For example, Yale law school dean Harold Koh. Here's a sample of his resume:
- Named as plaintiff in suit trying to keep military recruiters off Yale's campus.
- Argued that bin Laden should be tried in federal court, or in the International Criminal Court.
- Argued that Saddam should be tried at the ICC.
- Upset that the U.S. deposed Saddam without a U.N. permission slip.
And, a couple of Kerry operatives will be testifying too. Just the kind of people we should all be listening to when it comes to who we want as AG.
Bottom line: The Democrats will do the minimum necessary to play to their base, and not much more.
I think the hearing will fail to live up to the hype. It is a lot easier to vilify a Robert Bork when no one really knows, understands, or cares about what a judge has done in his career. However, when it comes to dealing with terorists, Americans who are not card-carrying ACLU scum or members of that clown organization People for the Amercian Way aren't much concerned about the sensibilities of terrorists. (However, I find it interesting that Ralph Neas' clown group is tempered in their opposition of Gonzales, as is the ACLU.)
Just take a look at the Democrats' witness list, a litany of liberal jokers. For example, Yale law school dean Harold Koh. Here's a sample of his resume:
- Named as plaintiff in suit trying to keep military recruiters off Yale's campus.
- Argued that bin Laden should be tried in federal court, or in the International Criminal Court.
- Argued that Saddam should be tried at the ICC.
- Upset that the U.S. deposed Saddam without a U.N. permission slip.
And, a couple of Kerry operatives will be testifying too. Just the kind of people we should all be listening to when it comes to who we want as AG.
Bottom line: The Democrats will do the minimum necessary to play to their base, and not much more.
Sunday, January 02, 2005
Happy New Year - Predictions and Prayers
May 2005 be a prosperous year for you. I expect it to be another great one for me. For the record, I wanted to throw out some prayers and predictions:
Prayers:
- That my cousin Jamie makes it fine through the last few weeks of his tour in Iraq.
- That my cousin Dana has a healthy little girl (Alessandra is her name) sometime at the end of April.
- That my best friend Joel and his fiancee Lisa have a healthy baby come the end of July.
- That Emily continues to be healthy, happy, and funny, and that Stephanie and I are able to start cooking up a brother for her later this year.
- That my second semester of law school is even better than the first.
- That the Eagles finally win the Super Bowl. (I know, without T.O., it's a long shot, but I can still pray, can't I?)
- That the Democratic Party completes its implosion during the confirmation hearings for Alberto Gonzales and the next Supreme Court vacancy, and then decides to become a viable second party again, because we all lose when there aren't two strong parties.
- That Iraq's elections on January 30th are as eventful as Afghanistan's.
- That I win the UNM Law 1L Advocacy Tournament.
Predictions:
- Miguel Estrada is nominated as the next Associate Justice, and Clarence Thomas for the next Chief Justice of the Supreme Court.
- The Patriots will win the Super Bowl again.
- The NHL season will be salvaged in the next 2 weeks.
- We will get pregnant with another daughter because God wants to extract maximum punishment for all of my youthful transgressions.
- I will get straight A's this semester.
- The Democrats will further fall apart, because screaming about the so-called "torture" of terrorist scum will not go over too well with anyone outside the editorial offices of newspapers and TV networks. If it did, we'd be inagurating John Kerry this month.
- Hollywood will offer up a sop to its detractors and nominate The Passion of the Christ for Best Picture. (Of course, Cannonball Run II would have a better chance of winning, but Hollywood still understands $$$ rules, and those "evil Christians" have plenty to spend.)
- Kofi Annan will not last out the year, due to "health problems."
We'll see if I'm right. Share yours if you'd like.
Prayers:
- That my cousin Jamie makes it fine through the last few weeks of his tour in Iraq.
- That my cousin Dana has a healthy little girl (Alessandra is her name) sometime at the end of April.
- That my best friend Joel and his fiancee Lisa have a healthy baby come the end of July.
- That Emily continues to be healthy, happy, and funny, and that Stephanie and I are able to start cooking up a brother for her later this year.
- That my second semester of law school is even better than the first.
- That the Eagles finally win the Super Bowl. (I know, without T.O., it's a long shot, but I can still pray, can't I?)
- That the Democratic Party completes its implosion during the confirmation hearings for Alberto Gonzales and the next Supreme Court vacancy, and then decides to become a viable second party again, because we all lose when there aren't two strong parties.
- That Iraq's elections on January 30th are as eventful as Afghanistan's.
- That I win the UNM Law 1L Advocacy Tournament.
Predictions:
- Miguel Estrada is nominated as the next Associate Justice, and Clarence Thomas for the next Chief Justice of the Supreme Court.
- The Patriots will win the Super Bowl again.
- The NHL season will be salvaged in the next 2 weeks.
- We will get pregnant with another daughter because God wants to extract maximum punishment for all of my youthful transgressions.
- I will get straight A's this semester.
- The Democrats will further fall apart, because screaming about the so-called "torture" of terrorist scum will not go over too well with anyone outside the editorial offices of newspapers and TV networks. If it did, we'd be inagurating John Kerry this month.
- Hollywood will offer up a sop to its detractors and nominate The Passion of the Christ for Best Picture. (Of course, Cannonball Run II would have a better chance of winning, but Hollywood still understands $$$ rules, and those "evil Christians" have plenty to spend.)
- Kofi Annan will not last out the year, due to "health problems."
We'll see if I'm right. Share yours if you'd like.
Tuesday, December 28, 2004
This is beyond disgraceful
Thousands dead, and many more who can be saved with decent medical attention. But Sri Lanka's government would rather more people die that have those Jews help.
Sri Lanka rejects Israel relief delegation
A 150-member Israeli aid delegation canceled its mission to Sri Lanka on Tuesday, after the country - one of the hardest hit in the Asian tsunami disaster - refused to accept the Israeli team, Israel military officials said.
However, Israel is dispatching supplies at Sri Lanka's request, including 10,000 blankets contributed by the Israeli army, tents, nylon sheeting and water containers. The Israeli army's Home Front Command is organizing aid preparations...
The delegation was planning to assemble a medical facility comprised of specialist doctors, and to set up emergency, internal medicine and pediatric departments, as well as laboratory and X-ray facilities in the southern part of Sri Lanka.
Right now, a doctor in Israel is treating some asshole crying about having a 99-degree temperature instead of saving people that are needlessly dying, all because of misguided hatred. I hope this turns your stomach as much as it has mine.
Sri Lanka rejects Israel relief delegation
A 150-member Israeli aid delegation canceled its mission to Sri Lanka on Tuesday, after the country - one of the hardest hit in the Asian tsunami disaster - refused to accept the Israeli team, Israel military officials said.
However, Israel is dispatching supplies at Sri Lanka's request, including 10,000 blankets contributed by the Israeli army, tents, nylon sheeting and water containers. The Israeli army's Home Front Command is organizing aid preparations...
The delegation was planning to assemble a medical facility comprised of specialist doctors, and to set up emergency, internal medicine and pediatric departments, as well as laboratory and X-ray facilities in the southern part of Sri Lanka.
Right now, a doctor in Israel is treating some asshole crying about having a 99-degree temperature instead of saving people that are needlessly dying, all because of misguided hatred. I hope this turns your stomach as much as it has mine.
Stingy my ass
Sadness in Asia
The tragedy in Asia, where the death toll keeps rising, has saddened me beyond words. You know what is really sad? Over the past few days, I have wondered how this would get blamed on Bush. Well, our friends at the Washington Post have found a way to put it on his shoulders.
Aid Grows Amid Remarks About President's Absence
The Bush administration more than doubled its financial commitment yesterday to provide relief to nations suffering from the Indian Ocean tsunami, amid complaints that the vacationing President Bush has been insensitive to a humanitarian catastrophe of epic proportions.
Insensitive? They must be joking. What do they want, Bush to be just like that phony Clinton? Because, if Clinton were President, he'd have found a way to make a story about 60,000 people (and certainly more before it is all said and done) all about him. Give me a break. Between that, and some U.N. jerkoff calling the U.S. stingy, I cannot begin to tell you how angry I am. In the coming weeks, Americans will send millions upon millions of aid, without the government being involved at all. How do I know this? Because we ALWAYS do. If it wasn't for America, Bangladesh would still be cleaning up from their tragic flood in 1991, and Turkey would still be digging out from that masive earthqauke they had a few years ago.
I am beyond tired of Bush being blamed for everything, and tired of America not being appreciated. Yet, I have sent my check, and I urge you to as well. Because, whether some people are grateful or not, the people who have suffered deserve our help. And they are going to get it.
In closing, get this slick piece of alleged reporting:
Rep. Frank R. Wolf (R-Va.), who is frequently outspoken in favor of U.S. humanitarian ventures, said he believes the initial U.S. response has been appropriate, even without a public role for Bush. "I think the world knows we're a very generous people," he said.
Still, the United Nations' Egeland complained on Monday that each of the richest nations gives less than 1 percent of its gross national product for foreign assistance, and many give 0.1 percent. "It is beyond me why we are so stingy, really," he told reporters.
Among the world's two dozen wealthiest countries, the United States often is among the lowest in donors per capita for official development assistance worldwide, even though the totals are larger. According to the Paris-based Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development of 30 wealthy nations, the United States gives the least -- at 0.14 percent of its gross national product, compared with Norway, which gives the most at 0.92 percent.
I don't know for sure, but I think you would rather have .0001% of Bill Gates wealth rather than 25% of mine. We give more than all the others combined, on our own, without government confiscation. It is time we get credit for it.
Aid Grows Amid Remarks About President's Absence
The Bush administration more than doubled its financial commitment yesterday to provide relief to nations suffering from the Indian Ocean tsunami, amid complaints that the vacationing President Bush has been insensitive to a humanitarian catastrophe of epic proportions.
Insensitive? They must be joking. What do they want, Bush to be just like that phony Clinton? Because, if Clinton were President, he'd have found a way to make a story about 60,000 people (and certainly more before it is all said and done) all about him. Give me a break. Between that, and some U.N. jerkoff calling the U.S. stingy, I cannot begin to tell you how angry I am. In the coming weeks, Americans will send millions upon millions of aid, without the government being involved at all. How do I know this? Because we ALWAYS do. If it wasn't for America, Bangladesh would still be cleaning up from their tragic flood in 1991, and Turkey would still be digging out from that masive earthqauke they had a few years ago.
I am beyond tired of Bush being blamed for everything, and tired of America not being appreciated. Yet, I have sent my check, and I urge you to as well. Because, whether some people are grateful or not, the people who have suffered deserve our help. And they are going to get it.
In closing, get this slick piece of alleged reporting:
Rep. Frank R. Wolf (R-Va.), who is frequently outspoken in favor of U.S. humanitarian ventures, said he believes the initial U.S. response has been appropriate, even without a public role for Bush. "I think the world knows we're a very generous people," he said.
Still, the United Nations' Egeland complained on Monday that each of the richest nations gives less than 1 percent of its gross national product for foreign assistance, and many give 0.1 percent. "It is beyond me why we are so stingy, really," he told reporters.
Among the world's two dozen wealthiest countries, the United States often is among the lowest in donors per capita for official development assistance worldwide, even though the totals are larger. According to the Paris-based Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development of 30 wealthy nations, the United States gives the least -- at 0.14 percent of its gross national product, compared with Norway, which gives the most at 0.92 percent.
I don't know for sure, but I think you would rather have .0001% of Bill Gates wealth rather than 25% of mine. We give more than all the others combined, on our own, without government confiscation. It is time we get credit for it.
Friday, December 24, 2004
Merry Christmas to all
I wanted to wish all of you a very Merry Christmas and share with you a few pictures of Emily, taken, oh, about 3 minutes ago.
May God Bless each of you this Christmas, and thank you for your kind e-mails, comments, and for all the laughs I've had this year. I'll be back strong in 2005.
May God Bless each of you this Christmas, and thank you for your kind e-mails, comments, and for all the laughs I've had this year. I'll be back strong in 2005.
Thursday, December 23, 2004
The other day
[Note: This is an account by my cousin Jamie, who was there during that suicide bombing in Mosul. He'll more details when he has time]
Well, Tuesday was pretty nuts for me.
I spent the morning getting my .50 cal ready and mounted on the vehicle I am eventually supposed to be riding to Kuwait.
The night before, I hung out with my friend Daniel and we messed around on GarageBand and made some corny techno songs and put them on a cd.
At lunch I decided to catch up with Daniel and see what he was doing for lunch. We have 3 choices here. The DFAC (mess hall, chow hall, whatever), Mujdat's (a locally run joint.. not for me) or not eat. So I walked up to the shop to see if Daniel had left. He had. So, I ran up the main strip of road that leads to the DFAC to catch up with him. By the way, the reviews of the CD were mixed. I'm not surprised, the songs are pretty bad. But whatever.
We sat and ate lunch. I made a taco salad. Got some taco shells and some meat from the line and some lettuce and all the other crap, mixed it all up and called it good. We finished, and sat around talking about this and that, yukking it up about whatever came to mind.
Flash, heat and loud. To my left. Never heard anything like it. I wasn't very far from the boom. As quickly as everything went dark, a single beam of light came down through the huge hole in the top of the tent. At my feet, were peices of something. I don't know what it was, it was just debris. Thinking it was a mortar, and mortars come more than just one at a time, I climbed under my table. My buddies ran for the door. I waited about 30 or 40 seconds, trying to ignore the screaming and moaning all around me. Nothing else happened, so I gathered my things and stepped out of the DFAC. First thing, I looked up to the sky and thanked God for keeping me safe.
I was in disbelief. I was in shock. But mostly, I didn't know what to do. But, I watched as other soldiers arrived and gathered the necessary equipment to treat the wounded. They set up hasty triage points and everyone who had a vehicle on the base was offering a ride for the wounded to get them to the hospital.
I was spitting out dirt. I was cursing the cowards who did it. I was happy to be alive, but sad because I knew people were really hurt.
Cross-posted at Jamie Rocks Iraq
Well, Tuesday was pretty nuts for me.
I spent the morning getting my .50 cal ready and mounted on the vehicle I am eventually supposed to be riding to Kuwait.
The night before, I hung out with my friend Daniel and we messed around on GarageBand and made some corny techno songs and put them on a cd.
At lunch I decided to catch up with Daniel and see what he was doing for lunch. We have 3 choices here. The DFAC (mess hall, chow hall, whatever), Mujdat's (a locally run joint.. not for me) or not eat. So I walked up to the shop to see if Daniel had left. He had. So, I ran up the main strip of road that leads to the DFAC to catch up with him. By the way, the reviews of the CD were mixed. I'm not surprised, the songs are pretty bad. But whatever.
We sat and ate lunch. I made a taco salad. Got some taco shells and some meat from the line and some lettuce and all the other crap, mixed it all up and called it good. We finished, and sat around talking about this and that, yukking it up about whatever came to mind.
Flash, heat and loud. To my left. Never heard anything like it. I wasn't very far from the boom. As quickly as everything went dark, a single beam of light came down through the huge hole in the top of the tent. At my feet, were peices of something. I don't know what it was, it was just debris. Thinking it was a mortar, and mortars come more than just one at a time, I climbed under my table. My buddies ran for the door. I waited about 30 or 40 seconds, trying to ignore the screaming and moaning all around me. Nothing else happened, so I gathered my things and stepped out of the DFAC. First thing, I looked up to the sky and thanked God for keeping me safe.
I was in disbelief. I was in shock. But mostly, I didn't know what to do. But, I watched as other soldiers arrived and gathered the necessary equipment to treat the wounded. They set up hasty triage points and everyone who had a vehicle on the base was offering a ride for the wounded to get them to the hospital.
I was spitting out dirt. I was cursing the cowards who did it. I was happy to be alive, but sad because I knew people were really hurt.
Cross-posted at Jamie Rocks Iraq
Wednesday, December 22, 2004
"Fake but Accurate" courtesy of the ACLU
The ACLU is out pushing a story that the "torture" in Guantanamo Bay was authorized by an executive order. Of course, the Los Angeles Times runs right with the story:
FBI Agents Complained of Prisoner Abuse, Records Say
WASHINGTON — FBI agents have lodged repeated complaints of physical and mental mistreatment of prisoners held in Iraq and Cuba, saying in reports that military officials have placed lighted cigarettes in detainees' ears and humiliated Arab captives by wrapping Israeli flags around them, according to new documents released Monday.
The FBI records, which are among the latest set of documents obtained by the ACLU in its lawsuit against the federal government, also include instances in which bureau officials said they were disgusted by military interrogators who pretended to be FBI agents as a "ruse" to glean intelligence from prisoners.
Now, here' the kicker:
The FBI agents referred to what they described as a new executive order on prisoner treatment by President Bush. They described the order as allowing interrogation tactics that were forbidden for FBI agents.
There it is crux of the story. To make you think that there is some Executive Order by Bush authorizing some kind of "torture." But then the article says this:
The records did not include a copy of the Bush order, or make clear exactly when it was signed. Pentagon officials would not comment on whether there was any new order.
That's right. Some FBI memo says it exists, and the Pentagon didn't comment. There is proof according to ACLU's standards. But, even if it exists, this is what it supposedly says:
According to FBI officials, the Bush order approved interrogation tactics that included "sleep deprivation and stress positions," as well as "loud music, interrogators yelling at subjects and prisoners with hoods on their heads."
Wow, how evil!!! I am stunned that these scum aren't getting satellite TV with al-Jazeera in HDTV.
Read the whole thing. The story relies on hearsay and unsubstantiated allegations. This is pathetic journalism, and I am being charitable in calling it that. It ends with this "tearjerker":
"Most times they had urinated or defecated on themselves, and had been left for 18 to 24 hours or more," the agent wrote.
Sometimes, he reported, the room was chilled to where a "barefooted detainee was shaking with cold."
Other times, he said, the air-conditioning was turned off and the temperature in the unventilated room rose to well over 100 degrees.
He said one detainee "was almost unconscious on the floor, with a pile of hair next to him. He had apparently been literally pulling his own hair out throughout the night."
The FBI documents also included a report of a prisoner in Cuba whose legs were injured and who said he had lied about being a terrorist out of fear that the U.S. military would otherwise have his legs amputated.
"He indicated he was injured severely and in a lot of pain," the FBI documents said, yet the prisoner constantly was being asked whether he had attended a terrorist camp in Afghanistan. The agent wrote that the prisoner "stated he wanted to receive decent medical treatment, and felt the only way to get it was to tell the Americans what they wanted to hear."
Am I supposed to be upset? At least their heads are still attached, and they weren't forced to choose between burning to death or jumping out of the 101st floor. These scumbags that the ACLU cries over were celebrating on September 11th. They aren't celebrating now. F them. If these stories ae true, then we need to stop coddling them and really get down to business.
FBI Agents Complained of Prisoner Abuse, Records Say
WASHINGTON — FBI agents have lodged repeated complaints of physical and mental mistreatment of prisoners held in Iraq and Cuba, saying in reports that military officials have placed lighted cigarettes in detainees' ears and humiliated Arab captives by wrapping Israeli flags around them, according to new documents released Monday.
The FBI records, which are among the latest set of documents obtained by the ACLU in its lawsuit against the federal government, also include instances in which bureau officials said they were disgusted by military interrogators who pretended to be FBI agents as a "ruse" to glean intelligence from prisoners.
Now, here' the kicker:
The FBI agents referred to what they described as a new executive order on prisoner treatment by President Bush. They described the order as allowing interrogation tactics that were forbidden for FBI agents.
There it is crux of the story. To make you think that there is some Executive Order by Bush authorizing some kind of "torture." But then the article says this:
The records did not include a copy of the Bush order, or make clear exactly when it was signed. Pentagon officials would not comment on whether there was any new order.
That's right. Some FBI memo says it exists, and the Pentagon didn't comment. There is proof according to ACLU's standards. But, even if it exists, this is what it supposedly says:
According to FBI officials, the Bush order approved interrogation tactics that included "sleep deprivation and stress positions," as well as "loud music, interrogators yelling at subjects and prisoners with hoods on their heads."
Wow, how evil!!! I am stunned that these scum aren't getting satellite TV with al-Jazeera in HDTV.
Read the whole thing. The story relies on hearsay and unsubstantiated allegations. This is pathetic journalism, and I am being charitable in calling it that. It ends with this "tearjerker":
"Most times they had urinated or defecated on themselves, and had been left for 18 to 24 hours or more," the agent wrote.
Sometimes, he reported, the room was chilled to where a "barefooted detainee was shaking with cold."
Other times, he said, the air-conditioning was turned off and the temperature in the unventilated room rose to well over 100 degrees.
He said one detainee "was almost unconscious on the floor, with a pile of hair next to him. He had apparently been literally pulling his own hair out throughout the night."
The FBI documents also included a report of a prisoner in Cuba whose legs were injured and who said he had lied about being a terrorist out of fear that the U.S. military would otherwise have his legs amputated.
"He indicated he was injured severely and in a lot of pain," the FBI documents said, yet the prisoner constantly was being asked whether he had attended a terrorist camp in Afghanistan. The agent wrote that the prisoner "stated he wanted to receive decent medical treatment, and felt the only way to get it was to tell the Americans what they wanted to hear."
Am I supposed to be upset? At least their heads are still attached, and they weren't forced to choose between burning to death or jumping out of the 101st floor. These scumbags that the ACLU cries over were celebrating on September 11th. They aren't celebrating now. F them. If these stories ae true, then we need to stop coddling them and really get down to business.
Jamie is OK
I just got an e-mail from Jamie. He was 60 meters from the blast and is only shaken up. He lost 2 men that he worked with on a daily basis and is quite down about that, as are we all. Thank God he is OK. You have no idea how relieved I am.
Tuesday, December 21, 2004
Pray for our troops
I am quite concerned right now for my cousin Jamie. While I believe that if he were one of the troops killed today, I would have heard by now, I will not rest easy until I hear from him.
I haven't talked to him in about 2 weeks. He is a member of the Virginia National Guard, and has been stationed in Mosul since February. He is scheduled to come home in about 6 weeks or so, and the last time we talked he told me that he was leaving Mosul for Kuwait soon. I am sitting here hoping he left already. Imagine how I felt when I read this today:
Rocket Hits U.S. Base in Iraq, Killing 22
BAGHDAD, Iraq - A 122 mm rocket slammed into a mess tent Tuesday at a military base near the northern city of Mosul, ripping through the ceiling and spraying shrapnel as U.S. soldiers sat down to lunch. Officials said 22 people were killed in the deadliest single attack against Americans in Iraq since the start of the war.
The dead included 20 Americans — 15 servicemembers and five civilian contractors — and two Iraqi soldiers. Sixty-six people were wounded, including 42 U.S. troops, Capt. Brian Lucas, a military spokesman in Baghdad, said early Wednesday.
Redmon said the dead included two soldiers from the Richmond-based 276th Engineer Battalion, which had just sat down to eat. The force knocked soldiers off their feet and out of their seats as a fireball enveloped the top of the tent and shrapnel sprayed into the area, Redmon said.
I think that this is Jamie's unit. I hope he is OK. I will update you as soon as I can confirm it. In the meantime, pray for our troops. Here is a recent picture of Jamie, one he sent after he received the care package I sent him.
I haven't talked to him in about 2 weeks. He is a member of the Virginia National Guard, and has been stationed in Mosul since February. He is scheduled to come home in about 6 weeks or so, and the last time we talked he told me that he was leaving Mosul for Kuwait soon. I am sitting here hoping he left already. Imagine how I felt when I read this today:
Rocket Hits U.S. Base in Iraq, Killing 22
BAGHDAD, Iraq - A 122 mm rocket slammed into a mess tent Tuesday at a military base near the northern city of Mosul, ripping through the ceiling and spraying shrapnel as U.S. soldiers sat down to lunch. Officials said 22 people were killed in the deadliest single attack against Americans in Iraq since the start of the war.
The dead included 20 Americans — 15 servicemembers and five civilian contractors — and two Iraqi soldiers. Sixty-six people were wounded, including 42 U.S. troops, Capt. Brian Lucas, a military spokesman in Baghdad, said early Wednesday.
Redmon said the dead included two soldiers from the Richmond-based 276th Engineer Battalion, which had just sat down to eat. The force knocked soldiers off their feet and out of their seats as a fireball enveloped the top of the tent and shrapnel sprayed into the area, Redmon said.
I think that this is Jamie's unit. I hope he is OK. I will update you as soon as I can confirm it. In the meantime, pray for our troops. Here is a recent picture of Jamie, one he sent after he received the care package I sent him.
"This isn't your father's ACLU"
The liberal wacko Palm Beach Post has this scathing editorial titled "The ACLU vs. the ACLU."
For the most part, it is a terrific (and unexpected) editorial. But, of course, they have to get ridiculous lines like this in:
ACLU Executive Director Anthony D. Romero says he's confident that the data searches don't compromise individual privacy and will withstand Mr. Spitzer's scrutiny. Many members aren't so sure and wonder how it is that their organization did a better job standing up for Mr. Limbaugh's interests than their own. If Mr. Romero can explain that one, he deserves a lifetime appointment.
Perhaps they should have mentioned how the ACLU does a better job of standing up for NAMBLA's interests rather than their own.
For the most part, it is a terrific (and unexpected) editorial. But, of course, they have to get ridiculous lines like this in:
ACLU Executive Director Anthony D. Romero says he's confident that the data searches don't compromise individual privacy and will withstand Mr. Spitzer's scrutiny. Many members aren't so sure and wonder how it is that their organization did a better job standing up for Mr. Limbaugh's interests than their own. If Mr. Romero can explain that one, he deserves a lifetime appointment.
Perhaps they should have mentioned how the ACLU does a better job of standing up for NAMBLA's interests rather than their own.
9th Circuit tyrant
I have on several occasions opined about how much I despise Judge Steven Reinhardt of the 9th Circuit, because he is a ridiculous liberal who thinks the law is what he says it is. (And don't forget, he is married to the executive director of the Southern California ACLU. Birds of a feather...) Reinhardt is the most overturned judge in the country. There is a reason for that. He thinks this is Canada or Sweden, and "interprets" the Constitution accordingly. Today, I came across this article about him in Pomona College Magazine. Just look at the header:
It’s not an easy time to be a liberal judge, but criticisms from the right and reversals from the Supreme Court only strengthen the resolve of Judge Stephen R. Reinhardt ’51 to do what he believes to be the right thing for America.
Yep, that's right. He'd get away with it too, if it wasn't for those meddling right-wingers. And, the wrong wrong he is, the more right he thinks he is. He is a disgraceful judge.
Reinhardt is a one-man argument for term limits for federal judges. If he wasn't making a nuisance out of himself on the 9th Circuit, he'd be nothing more than a worthless ACLU attorney. It is a damn shame there is no Constitutional limit to his term.
For his pains, the unabashedly liberal judge has drawn a barrage of criticism from the right. Rush Limbaugh has harangued him as a “left-leaning commie socialist,” and the conservative Weekly Standard has labeled him “the liberal bad boy of the federal judiciary.” Many of Reinhardt’s rulings have been overturned by the largely Republican-appointed Supreme Court, sometimes without any discussion beforehand.
Well, when you are wrong as he is, it just isn't worth the effort.
The opposition, if anything, merely strengthens Reinhardt’s resolve.
“I don’t feel any pressure. I suppose I should be pleased that those who have what I believe to be an erroneous view of the Constitution react strongly to rulings that I think protect people’s rights.”
Sounds like a MoveOn.org or ACLU member. Were I a terrorist or a Christian-hater, I'd love Reinhardt, because he would be my best friend. It will be a happy day when he isn't pissing all over the Constitution anymore.
It’s not an easy time to be a liberal judge, but criticisms from the right and reversals from the Supreme Court only strengthen the resolve of Judge Stephen R. Reinhardt ’51 to do what he believes to be the right thing for America.
Yep, that's right. He'd get away with it too, if it wasn't for those meddling right-wingers. And, the wrong wrong he is, the more right he thinks he is. He is a disgraceful judge.
Reinhardt is a one-man argument for term limits for federal judges. If he wasn't making a nuisance out of himself on the 9th Circuit, he'd be nothing more than a worthless ACLU attorney. It is a damn shame there is no Constitutional limit to his term.
For his pains, the unabashedly liberal judge has drawn a barrage of criticism from the right. Rush Limbaugh has harangued him as a “left-leaning commie socialist,” and the conservative Weekly Standard has labeled him “the liberal bad boy of the federal judiciary.” Many of Reinhardt’s rulings have been overturned by the largely Republican-appointed Supreme Court, sometimes without any discussion beforehand.
Well, when you are wrong as he is, it just isn't worth the effort.
The opposition, if anything, merely strengthens Reinhardt’s resolve.
“I don’t feel any pressure. I suppose I should be pleased that those who have what I believe to be an erroneous view of the Constitution react strongly to rulings that I think protect people’s rights.”
Sounds like a MoveOn.org or ACLU member. Were I a terrorist or a Christian-hater, I'd love Reinhardt, because he would be my best friend. It will be a happy day when he isn't pissing all over the Constitution anymore.
Have I told you lately...
...how much of a scumbag I think Kofi Annan is? First read this terrific column about why Annan has to go:
The Real Reason Kofi Annan Must Go
Genocide, not oil money, is the proof of his failed leadership.
Now, get this latest crap to eminate from Kofi's pie hole.
UN's Annan says Iraq bloodshed will affect elections
UN Secretary General Kofi Annan insisted only Iraq can decide whether to go ahead with elections next month, but he warned that the ongoing bloodshed would have an effect on the polls.
Speaking as the United States insisted that the violence would not derail Iraq's first post-Saddam Hussein election due at the end of January, Annan said the UN's work in helping to ready the vote was on schedule.
"The technical preparations are on track and I hope that all Iraqis will exercise their right to vote," he told a press conference at UN headquarters in New York.
"The decision (to) go ahead or not is the Iraqis' decision, not ours," he said. "But the violence, if it continues, will have an impact on the elections. Elections don't take place in a vacuum."
Why doesn't Kofi just tell the scumbag terrorists straight out to keep it up? Don't kid yourself. Kofi Annan is as anti-American as it gets, and he wants us to fail in Iraq. Don't act like I am saying that for effect. Just look at Annan's career. He has consistently been pro-dictator/terrorist/thug, both through act and omission.
I challenge any Kofi Annan or U.N. supporter to tell me what exactly Annan has done that is worthy of respect and/or praise. Kofi Annan belongs in jail, in a cell right next to his son Kojo.
The Real Reason Kofi Annan Must Go
Genocide, not oil money, is the proof of his failed leadership.
Now, get this latest crap to eminate from Kofi's pie hole.
UN's Annan says Iraq bloodshed will affect elections
UN Secretary General Kofi Annan insisted only Iraq can decide whether to go ahead with elections next month, but he warned that the ongoing bloodshed would have an effect on the polls.
Speaking as the United States insisted that the violence would not derail Iraq's first post-Saddam Hussein election due at the end of January, Annan said the UN's work in helping to ready the vote was on schedule.
"The technical preparations are on track and I hope that all Iraqis will exercise their right to vote," he told a press conference at UN headquarters in New York.
"The decision (to) go ahead or not is the Iraqis' decision, not ours," he said. "But the violence, if it continues, will have an impact on the elections. Elections don't take place in a vacuum."
Why doesn't Kofi just tell the scumbag terrorists straight out to keep it up? Don't kid yourself. Kofi Annan is as anti-American as it gets, and he wants us to fail in Iraq. Don't act like I am saying that for effect. Just look at Annan's career. He has consistently been pro-dictator/terrorist/thug, both through act and omission.
I challenge any Kofi Annan or U.N. supporter to tell me what exactly Annan has done that is worthy of respect and/or praise. Kofi Annan belongs in jail, in a cell right next to his son Kojo.
Monday, December 20, 2004
How dare the voters demand ther say?
Nothing pisses off the ACLU more than when judges are overruled by the people. Get this article:
Isle ballot measures shake up legal arena - Civil rights advocates voice concern at the Hawaii amendments
Voters in heavily Democratic Hawaii have supported toughening the state's criminal justice system by overturning three specific state Supreme Court rulings that favored accused sex offenders -- a move civil rights advocates say is a troubling sign of things to come.
Debate continues more than a month after voters approved four constitutional amendments dramatically altering the state's criminal justice system. Prosecutors, in effect, went to the people when they could not get what they wanted in the courtroom.
And exactly what is wrong with that? Our country isn't run by judicial fiat. But, since the ACLU and their liberal soulmates can't win a thing at the ballot box, they are forced to making it seem like the voters having their say over unaccountable judges is somehow wrong.
"People will not realize what they have lost until they are falsely accused of something," said Kat Brady, legislative liaison for the American Civil Liberties Union of Hawaii. (that sentence is what we reasonable people call a non-sequiter)
Supporters led by the state attorney general say the amendments will better protect the public, help crime victims and improve the judicial process.
The ACLU and defense attorneys contend the measures erode civil rights and are a tool for prosecutors to overturn unpopular high court decisions, shifting the balance of power from the courts to a flurry of ballot initiatives.
Jesselyn McCurdy, an ACLU attorney in Washington, said most states adjust their criminal justice system with statutes, rather than taking it to voters.
That is because most states don't have the referendum/initiative process written into their constitutions. There is NOTHING wrong with the people themselves deciding what laws they will live under. In fact, this is the basis of our entire system. But, the sex offender-loving ACLU can't have it.
One of the amendments allows prosecutors to bring charges directly without presenting evidence to a judge or grand jury. The other three make it easier to punish sex offenders.
There are legitimate arguments against allowing prosecutors to bring charges without presenting evidence to a judge or a grand jury, allowing the accused to confront his accuser, and the requirements that a jury need not be unanimous. But bring the arguments to the voters, and not to the courts.
I cannot stand when judges legislate from the bench, and I always favor ways to force them to only interpret laws, not to make them. Here is how you know that the ACLU's stance is weak:
The ACLU said the amendments were not needed in a state that has one of the nation's lowest violent crime rates per capita.
"It was not really about victims; it's about their agenda to get us to cede our rights and to get us to kind of conform to the Patriot Act," Brady said.
And what exactly does any of this have to do with the Patriot Act? I can't figure it out.
The ACLU cannot openly admit their true agenda: The unquestioned defense of sex offenders and child molesters.
Isle ballot measures shake up legal arena - Civil rights advocates voice concern at the Hawaii amendments
Voters in heavily Democratic Hawaii have supported toughening the state's criminal justice system by overturning three specific state Supreme Court rulings that favored accused sex offenders -- a move civil rights advocates say is a troubling sign of things to come.
Debate continues more than a month after voters approved four constitutional amendments dramatically altering the state's criminal justice system. Prosecutors, in effect, went to the people when they could not get what they wanted in the courtroom.
And exactly what is wrong with that? Our country isn't run by judicial fiat. But, since the ACLU and their liberal soulmates can't win a thing at the ballot box, they are forced to making it seem like the voters having their say over unaccountable judges is somehow wrong.
"People will not realize what they have lost until they are falsely accused of something," said Kat Brady, legislative liaison for the American Civil Liberties Union of Hawaii. (that sentence is what we reasonable people call a non-sequiter)
Supporters led by the state attorney general say the amendments will better protect the public, help crime victims and improve the judicial process.
The ACLU and defense attorneys contend the measures erode civil rights and are a tool for prosecutors to overturn unpopular high court decisions, shifting the balance of power from the courts to a flurry of ballot initiatives.
Jesselyn McCurdy, an ACLU attorney in Washington, said most states adjust their criminal justice system with statutes, rather than taking it to voters.
That is because most states don't have the referendum/initiative process written into their constitutions. There is NOTHING wrong with the people themselves deciding what laws they will live under. In fact, this is the basis of our entire system. But, the sex offender-loving ACLU can't have it.
One of the amendments allows prosecutors to bring charges directly without presenting evidence to a judge or grand jury. The other three make it easier to punish sex offenders.
There are legitimate arguments against allowing prosecutors to bring charges without presenting evidence to a judge or a grand jury, allowing the accused to confront his accuser, and the requirements that a jury need not be unanimous. But bring the arguments to the voters, and not to the courts.
I cannot stand when judges legislate from the bench, and I always favor ways to force them to only interpret laws, not to make them. Here is how you know that the ACLU's stance is weak:
The ACLU said the amendments were not needed in a state that has one of the nation's lowest violent crime rates per capita.
"It was not really about victims; it's about their agenda to get us to cede our rights and to get us to kind of conform to the Patriot Act," Brady said.
And what exactly does any of this have to do with the Patriot Act? I can't figure it out.
The ACLU cannot openly admit their true agenda: The unquestioned defense of sex offenders and child molesters.
Sunday, December 19, 2004
Told you so
Back on June 30th, I told you this:
The saddest part is that he is close to the truth. The media will use Saddam's trial to indict Bush. Every last thing that comes from Saddam's mouth will be treated as the gospel, and Bush will be put on the defensive every single day. This will turn out to be the biggest circus in history, you watch.
By the way, coming to the United States District Court for the District of Northern California: Saddam's habeas petition. Remember I said that.
And today, we get this from Saddam's attorney:
Saddam bids to challenge case in US
SADDAM HUSSEIN is preparing a legal challenge in America to his trial for war crimes, according to leaked papers prepared by his defence team.
Advice to take the case to the US courts is contained in a 50-page brief prepared by Clive Stafford Smith, the leading British human rights lawyer, which has been seen by The Sunday Times.
The action is to ensure that Saddam receives the basic legal rights given to those tried in America, such as full access to his defence team and an independent judge and jury.
Frankly, I hope Saddam's attorney files ever legal motion imaginable. This way, Saddam will die in jail and we will be spared the circus of a trial.
The saddest part is that he is close to the truth. The media will use Saddam's trial to indict Bush. Every last thing that comes from Saddam's mouth will be treated as the gospel, and Bush will be put on the defensive every single day. This will turn out to be the biggest circus in history, you watch.
By the way, coming to the United States District Court for the District of Northern California: Saddam's habeas petition. Remember I said that.
And today, we get this from Saddam's attorney:
Saddam bids to challenge case in US
SADDAM HUSSEIN is preparing a legal challenge in America to his trial for war crimes, according to leaked papers prepared by his defence team.
Advice to take the case to the US courts is contained in a 50-page brief prepared by Clive Stafford Smith, the leading British human rights lawyer, which has been seen by The Sunday Times.
The action is to ensure that Saddam receives the basic legal rights given to those tried in America, such as full access to his defence team and an independent judge and jury.
Frankly, I hope Saddam's attorney files ever legal motion imaginable. This way, Saddam will die in jail and we will be spared the circus of a trial.
Saturday, December 18, 2004
Do as we say, not as we do
I laughed my ass off when I read this:
A.C.L.U.'s Search for Data on Donors Stirs Privacy Fears
The American Civil Liberties Union is using sophisticated technology to collect a wide variety of information about its members and donors in a fund-raising effort that has ignited a bitter debate over its leaders' commitment to privacy rights.
Some board members say the extensive data collection makes a mockery of the organization's frequent criticism of banks, corporations and government agencies for their practice of accumulating data on people for marketing and other purposes.
Daniel S. Lowman, vice president for analytical services at Grenzebach Glier & Associates, the data firm hired by the A.C.L.U., said the software the organization is using, Prospect Explorer, combs a broad range of publicly available data to compile a file with information like an individual's wealth, holdings in public corporations, other assets and philanthropic interests.
The issue has attracted the attention of the New York attorney general, who is looking into whether the group violated its promises to protect the privacy of its donors and members.
"It is part of the A.C.L.U.'s mandate, part of its mission, to protect consumer privacy," said Wendy Kaminer, a writer and A.C.L.U. board member. "It goes against A.C.L.U. values to engage in data-mining on people without informing them. It's not illegal, but it is a violation of our values. It is hypocrisy."
They saved me the trouble of saying it. Basically, it comes down to this: If you are a potential terrorist who wants to kill thousands, the ACLU will do everything possible to make sure no one can find out a thing about you. But, if you got a dollar in your pocket that may someday find it's way into the ACLU coffers, the ACLU will mine every last bit of inofrmation about you to suck that dollar out, your privacy be damned.
Don't kid yourselves. The ACLU is a for-profit business, a vast con job. Their racket should be shut down under RICO. If you are a member of this vile organization, why? (And GFY if you are)
A.C.L.U.'s Search for Data on Donors Stirs Privacy Fears
The American Civil Liberties Union is using sophisticated technology to collect a wide variety of information about its members and donors in a fund-raising effort that has ignited a bitter debate over its leaders' commitment to privacy rights.
Some board members say the extensive data collection makes a mockery of the organization's frequent criticism of banks, corporations and government agencies for their practice of accumulating data on people for marketing and other purposes.
Daniel S. Lowman, vice president for analytical services at Grenzebach Glier & Associates, the data firm hired by the A.C.L.U., said the software the organization is using, Prospect Explorer, combs a broad range of publicly available data to compile a file with information like an individual's wealth, holdings in public corporations, other assets and philanthropic interests.
The issue has attracted the attention of the New York attorney general, who is looking into whether the group violated its promises to protect the privacy of its donors and members.
"It is part of the A.C.L.U.'s mandate, part of its mission, to protect consumer privacy," said Wendy Kaminer, a writer and A.C.L.U. board member. "It goes against A.C.L.U. values to engage in data-mining on people without informing them. It's not illegal, but it is a violation of our values. It is hypocrisy."
They saved me the trouble of saying it. Basically, it comes down to this: If you are a potential terrorist who wants to kill thousands, the ACLU will do everything possible to make sure no one can find out a thing about you. But, if you got a dollar in your pocket that may someday find it's way into the ACLU coffers, the ACLU will mine every last bit of inofrmation about you to suck that dollar out, your privacy be damned.
Don't kid yourselves. The ACLU is a for-profit business, a vast con job. Their racket should be shut down under RICO. If you are a member of this vile organization, why? (And GFY if you are)
The laughter never stops
Funny how these "important" groups had little to say when Saddam and his henchmen were throwing people out of windows and outting people through shredders, but have a ton to say when these same scum are being put on trial.
Iraq's Regime Crimes Tribunal Flawed - Rights Group
BAGHDAD (Reuters) - Iraq's plan to push ahead with early trials of Saddam Hussein's deputies risks launching an unfair process that is flawed and discredited in the eyes of the world, a leading human rights group said on Friday.
New York-based Human Rights Watch described the Iraqi Special Tribunal, set up to gather evidence against and try Saddam and his top lieutenants, as having "serious human rights shortcomings" and lacking "fair-trial protections."
"Trying former Iraqi officials under the current rules could mean a wasted opportunity to put Saddam and his henchmen on trial in a manner that has credibility in the eyes of the world," Richard Dicker, director of the International Justice Program at Human Rights Watch, said in a statement.
One of the best things I have ever heard is that when liberals can't argue on substance, they argue about process. How true it is here. After all, they can't really say we hate The United States more than murderous scum, which any honest person will tell you is the truth about HRW.
I have a few problems here. First, HRW is full of crap. Second, who cares what they say? Third, why does the media continually report what they have to say as if it is important? I don't. Take a gander at this part of the article:
Human Rights Watch urged that changes be made to the tribunal's statutes before the process goes any further.
"The Iraqi Special Tribunal has serious human rights shortcomings," Dicker said. "The Iraqi government will need to change the process and make sure that trials are fair."
If the tribunals have "human rights shortcomings," then what did Iraq under Saddam have?
Read some of the crap on their site. They mention the Congo but don't say a word about how U.N. peacekeepers are raping women all over the place. And, they complain about some law in Zimbabawe without a word about that murderous scumbag Robert Mugabe. There is very little on the Sudan and what the French troops did in the Ivory Coast. They are a joke, and should be ignored as such.
Iraq's Regime Crimes Tribunal Flawed - Rights Group
BAGHDAD (Reuters) - Iraq's plan to push ahead with early trials of Saddam Hussein's deputies risks launching an unfair process that is flawed and discredited in the eyes of the world, a leading human rights group said on Friday.
New York-based Human Rights Watch described the Iraqi Special Tribunal, set up to gather evidence against and try Saddam and his top lieutenants, as having "serious human rights shortcomings" and lacking "fair-trial protections."
"Trying former Iraqi officials under the current rules could mean a wasted opportunity to put Saddam and his henchmen on trial in a manner that has credibility in the eyes of the world," Richard Dicker, director of the International Justice Program at Human Rights Watch, said in a statement.
One of the best things I have ever heard is that when liberals can't argue on substance, they argue about process. How true it is here. After all, they can't really say we hate The United States more than murderous scum, which any honest person will tell you is the truth about HRW.
I have a few problems here. First, HRW is full of crap. Second, who cares what they say? Third, why does the media continually report what they have to say as if it is important? I don't. Take a gander at this part of the article:
Human Rights Watch urged that changes be made to the tribunal's statutes before the process goes any further.
"The Iraqi Special Tribunal has serious human rights shortcomings," Dicker said. "The Iraqi government will need to change the process and make sure that trials are fair."
If the tribunals have "human rights shortcomings," then what did Iraq under Saddam have?
Read some of the crap on their site. They mention the Congo but don't say a word about how U.N. peacekeepers are raping women all over the place. And, they complain about some law in Zimbabawe without a word about that murderous scumbag Robert Mugabe. There is very little on the Sudan and what the French troops did in the Ivory Coast. They are a joke, and should be ignored as such.
Friday, December 17, 2004
Emily turns 1
Last Saturday, we had Emily's 1st Birthday Party. I cannot believe my little angel is a year old already. I hate it. I wish the first year took two, if you know what I mean. Anyway, she has really taken to Dora the Explorer, so we gave her a real nice Dora birthday party. This is my favorite picture of the day, and I wanted to show it off to you.
This is outrageous
I am sure most of you have seen this story by now:
One Charged With Killing Mom, Taking Baby
MARYVILLE, Mo. - Authorities Friday arrested a woman they allege came to the home of an eight-months-pregnant woman — purportedly to buy a dog — then strangled her and cut the baby from her womb. Authorities found the abducted infant in good health, ending a day of frantic searching.
I can hardly imagine anything more vile and disgusting. The liberal media and their primary concern about abortion over anything, ANYTHING, even the life of a baby, acted to only increase my outrage. Just click here and read the headlines from today, all over the media. (Most of the headlines have been changed, so I am referring you to a search string) Here are some of the egregious examples:
Amber Alert issued for stolen fetus Stolen fetus? No, a kidnapped baby!!!
Amber Alert Out for Fetus Cut From Womb - Maybe I am real dumb, but once out of the womb, isn't the baby no longer a fetus? (Then again, we considered Emily a baby from the day we found out she was on the way. I must be one of those evil "Religious Right" people)
And, even after the killer was caught, our liberals friends continued the charade.
Woman Charged In Mo. Fetus Case
A group called the National Incident Notification Network, however, headlined the situation perfectly:
Baby Missing After Being Cut From Slain Pregnant Woman's Body Amber Alert Issued For Missing Female Baby
I saw a sheriff on TV doing a press conference, and he was explaining that there was a delay in issung an Amber Alert because of the "status" of the baby and the initial hesitancy to issue an alert for a "fetus." I don't blame him at all, but I could not believe my ears. Think about it. An 8-month pregnant woman was murdered, the baby was cut out of her and missing, and there are some scumbag bureaucrats whose primary concern was not upsetting the pro-abortion people. Out-f'n-rageous.
One more headline for you. They make it sound like some sort of property crime.
Two in custody in Missouri fetus theft
My friends, this is the state of our media today. The obsession with abortion rights has gotten beyond ridiculous. That is OK though. Liberals are aborting themselves into extinction anyway.
One Charged With Killing Mom, Taking Baby
MARYVILLE, Mo. - Authorities Friday arrested a woman they allege came to the home of an eight-months-pregnant woman — purportedly to buy a dog — then strangled her and cut the baby from her womb. Authorities found the abducted infant in good health, ending a day of frantic searching.
I can hardly imagine anything more vile and disgusting. The liberal media and their primary concern about abortion over anything, ANYTHING, even the life of a baby, acted to only increase my outrage. Just click here and read the headlines from today, all over the media. (Most of the headlines have been changed, so I am referring you to a search string) Here are some of the egregious examples:
Amber Alert issued for stolen fetus Stolen fetus? No, a kidnapped baby!!!
Amber Alert Out for Fetus Cut From Womb - Maybe I am real dumb, but once out of the womb, isn't the baby no longer a fetus? (Then again, we considered Emily a baby from the day we found out she was on the way. I must be one of those evil "Religious Right" people)
And, even after the killer was caught, our liberals friends continued the charade.
Woman Charged In Mo. Fetus Case
A group called the National Incident Notification Network, however, headlined the situation perfectly:
Baby Missing After Being Cut From Slain Pregnant Woman's Body Amber Alert Issued For Missing Female Baby
I saw a sheriff on TV doing a press conference, and he was explaining that there was a delay in issung an Amber Alert because of the "status" of the baby and the initial hesitancy to issue an alert for a "fetus." I don't blame him at all, but I could not believe my ears. Think about it. An 8-month pregnant woman was murdered, the baby was cut out of her and missing, and there are some scumbag bureaucrats whose primary concern was not upsetting the pro-abortion people. Out-f'n-rageous.
One more headline for you. They make it sound like some sort of property crime.
Two in custody in Missouri fetus theft
My friends, this is the state of our media today. The obsession with abortion rights has gotten beyond ridiculous. That is OK though. Liberals are aborting themselves into extinction anyway.
Wednesday, December 15, 2004
Is nothing sacred?
Some dope finished a book, right before he died, that claims that Abraham Lincoln was a homosexual. Of course, the New York Times has given it a long write-up. As I read it, I wondered why anyone, even a paper with such low standards as the New York Times, would bother with this crap. Then I read this, and it all came clear:
Larry Kramer, the author and AIDS activist, said that Mr. Tripp's book "will change history."
"It's a revolutionary book because the most important president in the history of the United States was gay," he said. "Now maybe they'll leave us alone, all those people in the party he founded."
Republican-bashing always has a place in the NY Times. I would not be surprised if they ran this piece just so they could get this sentence in print. I found two other parts laughable:
...Mr. Tripp has won support from other scholars. Jean H. Baker, a former student of Mr. Donald's and the author of "Mary Todd Lincoln: a Biography" (W. W Norton, 1987), wrote the introduction to the book. She said that Lincoln's homosexuality would explain his tempestuous relationship with Mary Todd, and "some of her agonies and anxieties over their relationship."
He fought with his wife. He must be gay. What other explanation is there? Oh, please. This my friends is what passes for scholarship these days. And:
Finding the truth is a sacred principal for historians, Mr. Chesson said, adding, "It's incumbent on us as scholars to present to readers material if historians have ignored it or swept it under the rug because they don't agree with it."
Still, if Lincoln was gay, how did it affect his presidency? Ms. Baker said that his outsider status would explain his independence and his ability to take anti-Establishment positions like the issuing of the Emancipation Proclamation. As a homosexual, she said, "he would be on the margins of tradition."
Oh, get real. His "outsider status" had nothing to do with him issuing The Emancipation Proclomation. It is beyond ridiculous how these "scholars" are trying to omply that Lincoln was a bleeding-heart gay liberal. They must have never read the Emancipation Proclamation, or, at best, don't understand it. The reason Lincoln issued it was for pure political reasons. He feared the British would enter the war on the side of the Confederacy (the Brits supplied them quite a bit, and there was incident on the seas between the Union and the Brits). And, if you read the document honestly, you will realize that NOT ONE SLAVE was made free. Here's an excerpt of the Emancipation Proclamation. Pay attention to the highlighted parts especially:
Now, therefore I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States, by virtue of the power in me vested as Commander-in-Chief, of the Army and Navy of the United States in time of actual armed rebellion against the authority and government of the United States, and as a fit and necessary war measure for suppressing said rebellion, do, on this first day of January, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty-three, and in accordance with my purpose so to do publicly proclaimed for the full period of one hundred days, from the day first above mentioned, order and designate as the States and parts of States wherein the people thereof respectively, are this day in rebellion against the United States, the following, to wit:
Arkansas, Texas, Louisiana, (except the Parishes of St. Bernard, Plaquemines, Jefferson, St. John, St. Charles, St. James Ascension, Assumption, Terrebonne, Lafourche, St. Mary, St. Martin, and Orleans, including the City of New Orleans) Mississippi, Alabama, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Virginia, (except the forty-eight counties designated as West Virginia, and also the counties of Berkley, Accomac, Northampton, Elizabeth City, York, Princess Ann, and Norfolk, including the cities of Norfolk and Portsmouth[)], and which excepted parts, are for the present, left precisely as if this proclamation were not issued.
The order "freed" all of the slaves in all of the places that the Union DID NOT CONTROL. All of the excepted places, where slavery was not "abolished" by Lincoln were at that point in the full control of the Union.
I will always know that Lincoln was a great man and probably our greatest President, but I will not gloss over the truth of what he really did. The Emancipation Proclamation was nothing more than a propaganda document, done out of pragmatism, not out of pure decency.
Only Jesus Christ has had more books written about him than Linclon, and there about 7000 books on ol' Honest Abe. I guess to get attention on a new Lincoln book, one needs to claim he was gay. It is disgraceful, and I hope it sells as many copies as Jayson Blair's book. In fact, I am sure it will. No one smells bullshit better than the American buying public.
Larry Kramer, the author and AIDS activist, said that Mr. Tripp's book "will change history."
"It's a revolutionary book because the most important president in the history of the United States was gay," he said. "Now maybe they'll leave us alone, all those people in the party he founded."
Republican-bashing always has a place in the NY Times. I would not be surprised if they ran this piece just so they could get this sentence in print. I found two other parts laughable:
...Mr. Tripp has won support from other scholars. Jean H. Baker, a former student of Mr. Donald's and the author of "Mary Todd Lincoln: a Biography" (W. W Norton, 1987), wrote the introduction to the book. She said that Lincoln's homosexuality would explain his tempestuous relationship with Mary Todd, and "some of her agonies and anxieties over their relationship."
He fought with his wife. He must be gay. What other explanation is there? Oh, please. This my friends is what passes for scholarship these days. And:
Finding the truth is a sacred principal for historians, Mr. Chesson said, adding, "It's incumbent on us as scholars to present to readers material if historians have ignored it or swept it under the rug because they don't agree with it."
Still, if Lincoln was gay, how did it affect his presidency? Ms. Baker said that his outsider status would explain his independence and his ability to take anti-Establishment positions like the issuing of the Emancipation Proclamation. As a homosexual, she said, "he would be on the margins of tradition."
Oh, get real. His "outsider status" had nothing to do with him issuing The Emancipation Proclomation. It is beyond ridiculous how these "scholars" are trying to omply that Lincoln was a bleeding-heart gay liberal. They must have never read the Emancipation Proclamation, or, at best, don't understand it. The reason Lincoln issued it was for pure political reasons. He feared the British would enter the war on the side of the Confederacy (the Brits supplied them quite a bit, and there was incident on the seas between the Union and the Brits). And, if you read the document honestly, you will realize that NOT ONE SLAVE was made free. Here's an excerpt of the Emancipation Proclamation. Pay attention to the highlighted parts especially:
Now, therefore I, Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States, by virtue of the power in me vested as Commander-in-Chief, of the Army and Navy of the United States in time of actual armed rebellion against the authority and government of the United States, and as a fit and necessary war measure for suppressing said rebellion, do, on this first day of January, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty-three, and in accordance with my purpose so to do publicly proclaimed for the full period of one hundred days, from the day first above mentioned, order and designate as the States and parts of States wherein the people thereof respectively, are this day in rebellion against the United States, the following, to wit:
Arkansas, Texas, Louisiana, (except the Parishes of St. Bernard, Plaquemines, Jefferson, St. John, St. Charles, St. James Ascension, Assumption, Terrebonne, Lafourche, St. Mary, St. Martin, and Orleans, including the City of New Orleans) Mississippi, Alabama, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Virginia, (except the forty-eight counties designated as West Virginia, and also the counties of Berkley, Accomac, Northampton, Elizabeth City, York, Princess Ann, and Norfolk, including the cities of Norfolk and Portsmouth[)], and which excepted parts, are for the present, left precisely as if this proclamation were not issued.
The order "freed" all of the slaves in all of the places that the Union DID NOT CONTROL. All of the excepted places, where slavery was not "abolished" by Lincoln were at that point in the full control of the Union.
I will always know that Lincoln was a great man and probably our greatest President, but I will not gloss over the truth of what he really did. The Emancipation Proclamation was nothing more than a propaganda document, done out of pragmatism, not out of pure decency.
Only Jesus Christ has had more books written about him than Linclon, and there about 7000 books on ol' Honest Abe. I guess to get attention on a new Lincoln book, one needs to claim he was gay. It is disgraceful, and I hope it sells as many copies as Jayson Blair's book. In fact, I am sure it will. No one smells bullshit better than the American buying public.
Wait a second
I thought Iraq was a war for oil? Get this BBC article:
US 'failed to control' Iraq oil
A United Nations panel has found that the US-led occupation authority failed to exercise proper controls over Iraq's oil industry and could not say how much oil had gone missing since the fall of Saddam Hussein.
The International Advisory and Monitoring Board report also said there were "important weaknesses" in the management by occupation officials of up to $20bn in Iraqi funds, mostly from oil sales.
20 billion? Isn't that about the same amount in the Oil-for-Food scandal? The next paragraph reveals the true agenda at work here.
US politicians have often accused the UN of incompetence and, perhaps, corruption in its handling of the oil-for-food programme, a scheme to alleviate Iraqi suffering under sanctions before the war. Now the boot is on the other foot.
Don't you just love the shit that the worthless BBC is trying to pass off here? And, in trying to shift the attention and blame on the U.S., the expected boogeyman is pulled out:
The panel, which also includes representatives from the IMF and the World Bank, expressed particular concern about how large contracts paid out of Iraqi funds were given to US firms, such as the oil services group Halliburton, without competitive bidding.
I expect to see this or something similar in the New York Times any day.
US 'failed to control' Iraq oil
A United Nations panel has found that the US-led occupation authority failed to exercise proper controls over Iraq's oil industry and could not say how much oil had gone missing since the fall of Saddam Hussein.
The International Advisory and Monitoring Board report also said there were "important weaknesses" in the management by occupation officials of up to $20bn in Iraqi funds, mostly from oil sales.
20 billion? Isn't that about the same amount in the Oil-for-Food scandal? The next paragraph reveals the true agenda at work here.
US politicians have often accused the UN of incompetence and, perhaps, corruption in its handling of the oil-for-food programme, a scheme to alleviate Iraqi suffering under sanctions before the war. Now the boot is on the other foot.
Don't you just love the shit that the worthless BBC is trying to pass off here? And, in trying to shift the attention and blame on the U.S., the expected boogeyman is pulled out:
The panel, which also includes representatives from the IMF and the World Bank, expressed particular concern about how large contracts paid out of Iraqi funds were given to US firms, such as the oil services group Halliburton, without competitive bidding.
I expect to see this or something similar in the New York Times any day.
Disingenuous Headline of the Year
This AP headline and story is beyond ridiculous.
Ohio Recount Resembles Florida in 2000
CINCINNATI - In a scene reminiscent of Florida circa 2000, two teams of Republican and Democratic election workers held punch-card ballots up to the light Wednesday and whispered back and forth as they tried to divine the voters' intent from a few hanging chads.
Really, does anyone care except for the far-left wackos?
Ohio Recount Resembles Florida in 2000
CINCINNATI - In a scene reminiscent of Florida circa 2000, two teams of Republican and Democratic election workers held punch-card ballots up to the light Wednesday and whispered back and forth as they tried to divine the voters' intent from a few hanging chads.
Really, does anyone care except for the far-left wackos?
Tuesday, December 14, 2004
Yeah Right
This is like me calling for the end of Kobe Tai's career:
Abbas Calls for End of Armed Uprising
JERUSALEM - Mahmoud Abbas, the Palestinian leader campaigning to succeed Yasser Arafat in elections next month, said in an interview published Tuesday that the 4-year-old armed uprising against Israel was a mistake and must end.
His strong statement, which could cost him some electoral support, sent a challenge to militants who have been waging war with suicide attacks and ambushes; it also set the stage for a resumption of peace efforts if he wins.
Is it me, or does this seem like an election that only Jimmy Carter could see as legitimate? Plus, just look at how easy the AP can talk about Palestinian elections as if they were occuring in some long-successful democracy. Yet, they couldn't bring themselves to say much of anything, let alone good, about the Afghanistan elections and they can only keep talking about the possible postponement of Iraqi elections.
Bottom line: When I see Abbas saying this in Arabic, in front of a huge crowd somewhere in the Gaza Strip, and then actually lives to see the "election," I'll believe it. Until then....
Abbas Calls for End of Armed Uprising
JERUSALEM - Mahmoud Abbas, the Palestinian leader campaigning to succeed Yasser Arafat in elections next month, said in an interview published Tuesday that the 4-year-old armed uprising against Israel was a mistake and must end.
His strong statement, which could cost him some electoral support, sent a challenge to militants who have been waging war with suicide attacks and ambushes; it also set the stage for a resumption of peace efforts if he wins.
Is it me, or does this seem like an election that only Jimmy Carter could see as legitimate? Plus, just look at how easy the AP can talk about Palestinian elections as if they were occuring in some long-successful democracy. Yet, they couldn't bring themselves to say much of anything, let alone good, about the Afghanistan elections and they can only keep talking about the possible postponement of Iraqi elections.
Bottom line: When I see Abbas saying this in Arabic, in front of a huge crowd somewhere in the Gaza Strip, and then actually lives to see the "election," I'll believe it. Until then....
Monday, December 13, 2004
The irony is delicious
This reminds me of when Bush snuck off to Baghdad for Thanksgiving, and some editors complained that by keeping it secret, saying "that they found aspects of the White House strategy to be deceptive, excessively secretive and disruptive of the relationship between writer and editor." Get this:
Pentagon Weighs Use of Deception in a Broad Arena
The Pentagon is engaged in bitter, high-level debate over how far it can and should go in managing or manipulating information to influence opinion abroad, senior Defense Department civilians and military officers say.
Such missions, if approved, could take the deceptive techniques endorsed for use on the battlefield to confuse an adversary and adopt them for covert propaganda campaigns aimed at neutral and even allied nations.
Critics of the proposals say such deceptive missions could shatter the Pentagon's credibility, leaving the American public and a world audience skeptical of anything the Defense Department and military say - a repeat of the credibility gap that roiled America during the Vietnam War.
What a bunch of self-important bullshit. Since when is the New York Times anything other than skeptical of what comes out of the Pentagon? And, the Vietnam analogy, that old gray rag's favortie standby, fails on its face. Then, the deceptions were aimed at the American people. Today, they are aimed at the scum our fine men and women are fighting in order for our people to have a tactical advantage. This is no small difference.
Interestingly, no where in the article do they deem to mention the deception they are upset about. The Pentagon let it out that the offensive in Fallujah was about to begin, which was not true. The purpose of that falsehood was for our military to track the scum and see what they do, so that when we did go in, we had more of an advantage. They fail to mention that because any reader that cares about our people first, like me, would see no problem in what the Pentagon did.
Pentagon Weighs Use of Deception in a Broad Arena
The Pentagon is engaged in bitter, high-level debate over how far it can and should go in managing or manipulating information to influence opinion abroad, senior Defense Department civilians and military officers say.
Such missions, if approved, could take the deceptive techniques endorsed for use on the battlefield to confuse an adversary and adopt them for covert propaganda campaigns aimed at neutral and even allied nations.
Critics of the proposals say such deceptive missions could shatter the Pentagon's credibility, leaving the American public and a world audience skeptical of anything the Defense Department and military say - a repeat of the credibility gap that roiled America during the Vietnam War.
What a bunch of self-important bullshit. Since when is the New York Times anything other than skeptical of what comes out of the Pentagon? And, the Vietnam analogy, that old gray rag's favortie standby, fails on its face. Then, the deceptions were aimed at the American people. Today, they are aimed at the scum our fine men and women are fighting in order for our people to have a tactical advantage. This is no small difference.
Interestingly, no where in the article do they deem to mention the deception they are upset about. The Pentagon let it out that the offensive in Fallujah was about to begin, which was not true. The purpose of that falsehood was for our military to track the scum and see what they do, so that when we did go in, we had more of an advantage. They fail to mention that because any reader that cares about our people first, like me, would see no problem in what the Pentagon did.
Best read of the day
An editorial on the circus that we know more formally as the 9th Circuit.
The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, "serving" the western United States, is dysfunctional. It hears 17.4 percent of the federal appellate caseload. But it accounts for 31.5 percent of the federal cases that the U.S. Supreme Court hears on appeal.
The most telling statistic: The 9th Circuit was reversed unanimously 26 times during the last four terms, more than twice its nearest rival. That means it is so out of touch with the law that it couldn't get even one of nine justices -- liberal or conservative -- to agree with it.
Time to chop the place up into 3 or 4 parts.
Read the whole thing.
The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, "serving" the western United States, is dysfunctional. It hears 17.4 percent of the federal appellate caseload. But it accounts for 31.5 percent of the federal cases that the U.S. Supreme Court hears on appeal.
The most telling statistic: The 9th Circuit was reversed unanimously 26 times during the last four terms, more than twice its nearest rival. That means it is so out of touch with the law that it couldn't get even one of nine justices -- liberal or conservative -- to agree with it.
Time to chop the place up into 3 or 4 parts.
Read the whole thing.
Uh, no, Kevin Drum...
...you are the embarrassment, not Justice Thomas.
Speaking of the death penalty
Some people are just going to get what they deserve, no matter what.
Lawyer Backed in Conceding Client's Guilt
The Supreme Court ruled on Monday that faced with overwhelming evidence that a client is guilty of capital murder, a defense lawyer can make a reasonable strategic decision to concede guilt in open court, even if the client has not authorized such a strategy, in order to preserve some credibility with the jury that will soon decide whether to impose a death sentence.
The 8-to-0 decision, with an opinion by Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg and with Chief Justice William H. Rehnquist not participating, overturned a ruling by the Florida Supreme Court that a lawyer who concedes a defendant's guilt, for whatever reason, in the absence of explicit authorization, has deprived the client of the effective assistance of counsel.
Applying that rule, the Florida Supreme Court last year ordered a new trial for Joe Elton Nixon, who was convicted and sentenced to death in 1984 for kidnapping a woman, tying her to a tree, and setting her on fire while she was still alive. He then confessed the killing to his brother, took two of his victim's rings to a pawnshop and tried to sell the sports car he stole from her.
Justice Ginsburg said that Mr. Nixon's lawyer, Michael Corin, who was experienced in defending murder cases, calculated that a denial of guilt in the face of "overwhelming evidence" of the gruesome crime would have appeared incredible to the jurors before whom he would soon be asking for leniency in the sentencing phase. The lawyer's strategy was aimed at "preserving his credibility," she said, adding, "In a capital case, counsel must consider in conjunction both the guilt and penalty phases in determining how best to proceed."
That the strategy failed - the jury decided on a sentence of death after only three hours of deliberation - did not necessarily mean that the representation was ineffective, Justice Ginsburg said. She added that while lawyers ordinarily had a duty to consult with their clients on questions of "overarching defense strategy," that obligation did not extend to "every tactical decision."
Like it not, this was good strategy by the attorney, and the Court did well by upholding it. Jurors are human, and you can't treat them like dopes and then turn around and ask for their sympathy. Besides, if there was any chance for this guy to avoid the needle, some goodwill with the jury had to be obtained. And being honest with them was the only way to obtain it.
Besides, there is one other benefit. Lawyers who knew their client was screwed could just do this without asking, and the appeals who just overload the courts.
Lawyer Backed in Conceding Client's Guilt
The Supreme Court ruled on Monday that faced with overwhelming evidence that a client is guilty of capital murder, a defense lawyer can make a reasonable strategic decision to concede guilt in open court, even if the client has not authorized such a strategy, in order to preserve some credibility with the jury that will soon decide whether to impose a death sentence.
The 8-to-0 decision, with an opinion by Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg and with Chief Justice William H. Rehnquist not participating, overturned a ruling by the Florida Supreme Court that a lawyer who concedes a defendant's guilt, for whatever reason, in the absence of explicit authorization, has deprived the client of the effective assistance of counsel.
Applying that rule, the Florida Supreme Court last year ordered a new trial for Joe Elton Nixon, who was convicted and sentenced to death in 1984 for kidnapping a woman, tying her to a tree, and setting her on fire while she was still alive. He then confessed the killing to his brother, took two of his victim's rings to a pawnshop and tried to sell the sports car he stole from her.
Justice Ginsburg said that Mr. Nixon's lawyer, Michael Corin, who was experienced in defending murder cases, calculated that a denial of guilt in the face of "overwhelming evidence" of the gruesome crime would have appeared incredible to the jurors before whom he would soon be asking for leniency in the sentencing phase. The lawyer's strategy was aimed at "preserving his credibility," she said, adding, "In a capital case, counsel must consider in conjunction both the guilt and penalty phases in determining how best to proceed."
That the strategy failed - the jury decided on a sentence of death after only three hours of deliberation - did not necessarily mean that the representation was ineffective, Justice Ginsburg said. She added that while lawyers ordinarily had a duty to consult with their clients on questions of "overarching defense strategy," that obligation did not extend to "every tactical decision."
Like it not, this was good strategy by the attorney, and the Court did well by upholding it. Jurors are human, and you can't treat them like dopes and then turn around and ask for their sympathy. Besides, if there was any chance for this guy to avoid the needle, some goodwill with the jury had to be obtained. And being honest with them was the only way to obtain it.
Besides, there is one other benefit. Lawyers who knew their client was screwed could just do this without asking, and the appeals who just overload the courts.
Just desserts
Scott Peterson gets the death penalty. Good. I wish that fucker could get the firing squad on pay-per-view.
I haven't really said anything about this guy other than to call him a scumbag. And he is an evil scumbag at that, who should have just left his wife like many men do all the time. That piece of trash Amber Frye would have taken him even knowing that he left a pregnant wife. Trash like her have no self-respect, which is exactly why Peterson targeted her as his side piece. She was an easy score. He could have kept that lifestyle going for years, changing the woman every few weeks or months. Instead, he chose to kill that beatiful wife of his, and their baby. Which is why he deserves the needle in his arm. I am about 70% against the death penalty, but it is people like him that makes me want the death penalty as a option for prosecutors.
I haven't really said anything about this guy other than to call him a scumbag. And he is an evil scumbag at that, who should have just left his wife like many men do all the time. That piece of trash Amber Frye would have taken him even knowing that he left a pregnant wife. Trash like her have no self-respect, which is exactly why Peterson targeted her as his side piece. She was an easy score. He could have kept that lifestyle going for years, changing the woman every few weeks or months. Instead, he chose to kill that beatiful wife of his, and their baby. Which is why he deserves the needle in his arm. I am about 70% against the death penalty, but it is people like him that makes me want the death penalty as a option for prosecutors.
McCain is a fool
Look at this from that media darling, the "maverick" John McCain:
McCain Has 'No Confidence' in Rumsfeld
PHOENIX - U.S. Sen. John McCain said Monday that he has "no confidence" in Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld, citing Rumsfeld's handling of the war in Iraq and the failure to send more troops.
McCain, speaking to The Associated Press in an hourlong interview, said his comments were not a call for Rumsfeld's resignation, explaining that President Bush "can have the team that he wants around him."
Just look at McCain trying to kiss the ass of the liberal media, bashing Rumsfeld directly, and Bush indirectly. I wonder if he realizes that all the wonderful press that he gets now would disappear the moment he got the 2008 nomination, if he ever received it. McCain can be a real dope sometimes.
As a side note, look for more Republican presidential hopefuls take their swipes at Bush over the next 4 years in order to get themselves some positive press, to gain the approval of people who will never, ever support them.
McCain Has 'No Confidence' in Rumsfeld
PHOENIX - U.S. Sen. John McCain said Monday that he has "no confidence" in Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld, citing Rumsfeld's handling of the war in Iraq and the failure to send more troops.
McCain, speaking to The Associated Press in an hourlong interview, said his comments were not a call for Rumsfeld's resignation, explaining that President Bush "can have the team that he wants around him."
Just look at McCain trying to kiss the ass of the liberal media, bashing Rumsfeld directly, and Bush indirectly. I wonder if he realizes that all the wonderful press that he gets now would disappear the moment he got the 2008 nomination, if he ever received it. McCain can be a real dope sometimes.
As a side note, look for more Republican presidential hopefuls take their swipes at Bush over the next 4 years in order to get themselves some positive press, to gain the approval of people who will never, ever support them.
Saturday, December 11, 2004
Laugh of the week
From an article in the National Journal discussin possible Bush Supreme Court nominees:
President Clinton's approach to judicial nominations mirrored his policies -- moderate. D.C. Circuit Judge Ruth Bader Ginsburg and 1st Circuit Judge Stephen Breyer fit the mold. Both had reputations as being thorough and fair. "President Clinton worked really hard to, on the whole, nominate centrist candidates who really were able to generate broad support in the Senate and in the country," says Clinton White House Counsel Jack Quinn. "He wanted consensus." Adds Clinton Chief of Staff Leon Panetta: "He basically was interested in people like himself."
Ginsburg and Breyer are moderates. Yeah right. They are hard core liberals, especially Ginsburg, a former top ACLU lawyer.
Just to get it on the record, here are my predictions for Bush's nominees, assuming he gets three to replace O'Connor, Rehnquist and Stevens: Janice Rogers Brown, Michael McConnell, and Miguel Estrada, not necessarily in that order.
President Clinton's approach to judicial nominations mirrored his policies -- moderate. D.C. Circuit Judge Ruth Bader Ginsburg and 1st Circuit Judge Stephen Breyer fit the mold. Both had reputations as being thorough and fair. "President Clinton worked really hard to, on the whole, nominate centrist candidates who really were able to generate broad support in the Senate and in the country," says Clinton White House Counsel Jack Quinn. "He wanted consensus." Adds Clinton Chief of Staff Leon Panetta: "He basically was interested in people like himself."
Ginsburg and Breyer are moderates. Yeah right. They are hard core liberals, especially Ginsburg, a former top ACLU lawyer.
Just to get it on the record, here are my predictions for Bush's nominees, assuming he gets three to replace O'Connor, Rehnquist and Stevens: Janice Rogers Brown, Michael McConnell, and Miguel Estrada, not necessarily in that order.
Wednesday, December 08, 2004
Just what I want to read...
...while sitting in my rocking chair with my laptop.
Careful, lads, that laptop might burn your genes
BUSINESSMEN and teenage boys could be risking their fertility by using laptop computers, research suggests.
The combination of heat generated by the computers and the posture needed to balance the equipment on the lap leads to raised temperatures around the scrotum, a study has found. Past research shows that higher scrotal temperatures can damage sperm and affect fertility. And the introduction of new technology such as Bluetooth and infrared connections — which provide wireless links to the internet — has resulted in a growing number of men using the machines on their thighs rather than at a desk.
To keep the testicles at an ideal temperature — and for greater comfort — men naturally sit with their legs further apart than women. When working on a laptop, however, they will adopt a less natural position in order to balance it on their laps, which results in a significant rise in body heat between their thighs.
Wonderful. Just wonderful.
Careful, lads, that laptop might burn your genes
BUSINESSMEN and teenage boys could be risking their fertility by using laptop computers, research suggests.
The combination of heat generated by the computers and the posture needed to balance the equipment on the lap leads to raised temperatures around the scrotum, a study has found. Past research shows that higher scrotal temperatures can damage sperm and affect fertility. And the introduction of new technology such as Bluetooth and infrared connections — which provide wireless links to the internet — has resulted in a growing number of men using the machines on their thighs rather than at a desk.
To keep the testicles at an ideal temperature — and for greater comfort — men naturally sit with their legs further apart than women. When working on a laptop, however, they will adopt a less natural position in order to balance it on their laps, which results in a significant rise in body heat between their thighs.
Wonderful. Just wonderful.
Monday, December 06, 2004
A mean Monday
Let's review a few things:
Hardee's Monster Burger Creates Uproar
ST. LOUIS - At 1,420 calories and 107 grams of fat, Hardee's Monster Thickburger couldn't escape notice in these diet-conscious times. Or the jabs of late-night talk show hosts.
Yeah, that is funny. If anyone complains, tell them to piss off and don't eat it. If no one eats it, they won't sell it. Anyone willing to bet a lawsuit will result from this someday?
Bush Replaces Outspoken Civil Rights Chair
WASHINGTON - President Bush on Monday moved to replace Mary Frances Berry, the outspoken chairwoman of the U.S. Civil Rights Commission who has argued with every president since Jimmy Carter appointed her to the panel a quarter century ago.
Outspoken? More like a nasty old bitch. Good riddance.
AP: FBI Letter Cites Guantanamo Abuse
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico - FBI agents witnessed "highly aggressive" interrogations and mistreatment of terror suspects at the U.S. prison camp in Cuba starting in 2002 — more than a year before the prison abuse scandal broke in Iraq — according to a letter a senior Justice Department official sent to the Army's top criminal investigator.
In the letter obtained by The Associated Press, the FBI official suggested the Pentagon didn't act on FBI complaints about the incidents, including a female interrogator grabbing a detainee's genitals and bending back his thumbs, another where a prisoner was gagged with duct tape and a third where a dog was used to intimidate a detainee who later was thrown into isolation and showed signs of "extreme psychological trauma."
One Marine told an FBI observer that some interrogations led to prisoners "curling into a fetal position on the floor and crying in pain," according to the letter dated July 14, 2004.
Oh, boo-f'n-hoo. They should be grateful our fine soldiers didn't send them to Allah on the battlefield in Afghanistan.
If the letter detailed suspicious activity from young Arab males, it would be ignored. But to indirectly bash Bush, this letter is now the gospel.
And...
2 C.I.A. Reports Offer Warnings on Iraq's Path
WASHINGTON, Dec. 6 - A classified cable sent by the Central Intelligence Agency's station chief in Baghdad has warned that the situation in Iraq is deteriorating and may not rebound any time soon, according to government officials.
The cable, sent late last month as the officer ended a yearlong tour, presented a bleak assessment on matters of politics, economics and security, the officials said. They said its basic conclusions had been echoed in briefings presented by a senior C.I.A. official who recently visited Iraq.
The officials described the two assessments as having been "mixed," saying that they did describe Iraq as having made important progress, particularly in terms of its political process, and credited Iraqis with being resilient.
But over all, the officials described the station chief's cable in particular as an unvarnished assessment of the difficulties ahead in Iraq. They said it warned that the security situation was likely to get worse, including more violence and sectarian clashes, unless there were marked improvements soon on the part of the Iraqi government, in terms of its ability to assert authority and to build the economy.
Together, the appraisals, which follow several other such warnings from officials in Washington and in the field, were much more pessimistic than the public picture being offered by the Bush administration before the elections scheduled for Iraq next month, the officials said. The cable was sent to C.I.A. headquarters after American forces completed what military commanders have described as a significant victory, with the retaking of Falluja, a principal base of the Iraqi insurgency, in mid-November.
Some secret cable. Funny how these things always see the light of day when they can be used to bash Bush. Frankly, I don't trust the CIA anymore. (And when exactly did they become buddy-buddy with the left? Hasn't it been the left that has tried to destroy the CIA over the last 30 years?) Why should I trust the CIA when they can't even keep a "secret cable" secret? Yeah, I know they leaked it. Still, it is funny that no one makes a big deal about the pre-Iraq war assessments from the CIA being inaccurate, but now their negative assessments of Iraq today are treated like the word from above.
Hardee's Monster Burger Creates Uproar
ST. LOUIS - At 1,420 calories and 107 grams of fat, Hardee's Monster Thickburger couldn't escape notice in these diet-conscious times. Or the jabs of late-night talk show hosts.
Yeah, that is funny. If anyone complains, tell them to piss off and don't eat it. If no one eats it, they won't sell it. Anyone willing to bet a lawsuit will result from this someday?
Bush Replaces Outspoken Civil Rights Chair
WASHINGTON - President Bush on Monday moved to replace Mary Frances Berry, the outspoken chairwoman of the U.S. Civil Rights Commission who has argued with every president since Jimmy Carter appointed her to the panel a quarter century ago.
Outspoken? More like a nasty old bitch. Good riddance.
AP: FBI Letter Cites Guantanamo Abuse
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico - FBI agents witnessed "highly aggressive" interrogations and mistreatment of terror suspects at the U.S. prison camp in Cuba starting in 2002 — more than a year before the prison abuse scandal broke in Iraq — according to a letter a senior Justice Department official sent to the Army's top criminal investigator.
In the letter obtained by The Associated Press, the FBI official suggested the Pentagon didn't act on FBI complaints about the incidents, including a female interrogator grabbing a detainee's genitals and bending back his thumbs, another where a prisoner was gagged with duct tape and a third where a dog was used to intimidate a detainee who later was thrown into isolation and showed signs of "extreme psychological trauma."
One Marine told an FBI observer that some interrogations led to prisoners "curling into a fetal position on the floor and crying in pain," according to the letter dated July 14, 2004.
Oh, boo-f'n-hoo. They should be grateful our fine soldiers didn't send them to Allah on the battlefield in Afghanistan.
If the letter detailed suspicious activity from young Arab males, it would be ignored. But to indirectly bash Bush, this letter is now the gospel.
And...
2 C.I.A. Reports Offer Warnings on Iraq's Path
WASHINGTON, Dec. 6 - A classified cable sent by the Central Intelligence Agency's station chief in Baghdad has warned that the situation in Iraq is deteriorating and may not rebound any time soon, according to government officials.
The cable, sent late last month as the officer ended a yearlong tour, presented a bleak assessment on matters of politics, economics and security, the officials said. They said its basic conclusions had been echoed in briefings presented by a senior C.I.A. official who recently visited Iraq.
The officials described the two assessments as having been "mixed," saying that they did describe Iraq as having made important progress, particularly in terms of its political process, and credited Iraqis with being resilient.
But over all, the officials described the station chief's cable in particular as an unvarnished assessment of the difficulties ahead in Iraq. They said it warned that the security situation was likely to get worse, including more violence and sectarian clashes, unless there were marked improvements soon on the part of the Iraqi government, in terms of its ability to assert authority and to build the economy.
Together, the appraisals, which follow several other such warnings from officials in Washington and in the field, were much more pessimistic than the public picture being offered by the Bush administration before the elections scheduled for Iraq next month, the officials said. The cable was sent to C.I.A. headquarters after American forces completed what military commanders have described as a significant victory, with the retaking of Falluja, a principal base of the Iraqi insurgency, in mid-November.
Some secret cable. Funny how these things always see the light of day when they can be used to bash Bush. Frankly, I don't trust the CIA anymore. (And when exactly did they become buddy-buddy with the left? Hasn't it been the left that has tried to destroy the CIA over the last 30 years?) Why should I trust the CIA when they can't even keep a "secret cable" secret? Yeah, I know they leaked it. Still, it is funny that no one makes a big deal about the pre-Iraq war assessments from the CIA being inaccurate, but now their negative assessments of Iraq today are treated like the word from above.
Saturday, December 04, 2004
Bush at the Army-Navy game
Since I was born and raised in South Philly, within walking distance of the stadiums, I have been fortunate enough to attend several Army-Navy games. While the quality of football may not always be the best, the quality of the men playing the game has never been in question. If you can in your lifetime attend one of these games, you can't pass it up. The atmosphere is nothing like you have ever seen.
One other thing to consider: Our leader is out flipping the coin in front of about 70,000 people in Lincoln Financial Field, and our enemies' leaders live in caves and rat holes. Remember that.
God Bless America, and thank you to our fine troops for making sure I have the freedom to write this.
One other thing to consider: Our leader is out flipping the coin in front of about 70,000 people in Lincoln Financial Field, and our enemies' leaders live in caves and rat holes. Remember that.
God Bless America, and thank you to our fine troops for making sure I have the freedom to write this.
Mark this date down
It is a strange day in the annals when I agree with Robert Byrd and disagree with Betsy Newmark. Betsy posts:
Steven Taylor blogs about something that Robert Byrd is slipping into the budget resolution to require schools that receive federal money to devote a lesson to the Constitution on September 17, Constitution Day. Even though I fully believe that schools should teach a lot about the Constitution (after all I teach a Government and Politics class as well as American History so I'm teaching about the Constitution almost every day), I agree with Steven that the federal government should not be dictating curriculum. And they definitely should not be doing this in the context of a budget resolution.
I've been teaching the unit on federalism to my AP Government class, and it is really striking how many areas the federal government shouldn't be involved in, yet are. After a while, my students, who tend to be a bit liberal and very idealistic, are questions about why the federal government can pass bills in areas like civil rights, crime, and education. Then they open up their little pocket Constitutions and start rereading the 10th Amendment and Article I and asking some very good questions.
I suspect that I will have to devote a lesson to Senator Byrd.
I am a strong believer in federalism and the 10th Amendment, but in this case, Senator KKK Byrd is absolutely correct. Schools are woefully underteaching our most important document, and someone needs to step up and force them to teach our children about the Constitution. For example, at Arizona State University, I was once told that our Constitution was "based on" an Iriquos (sp?) Indian compact. I am not joking. If a college professor is pushing that crap, imagine what the grade school teachers are doing. Betsy should understand as much as anyone that our teachers are ignoring the Constitution, amongst many other important American documents and historical events, while teaching them the wonders of the religion of peace, how Bill Clinton was a better president than Abraham Lincoln, and acting as if Crispus Attacks won the Revolutionary War by himself.
It pains me to type this, but I applaud the old geezer for this one.
[Cross-posted at Confessions of a Political Junkie]
Steven Taylor blogs about something that Robert Byrd is slipping into the budget resolution to require schools that receive federal money to devote a lesson to the Constitution on September 17, Constitution Day. Even though I fully believe that schools should teach a lot about the Constitution (after all I teach a Government and Politics class as well as American History so I'm teaching about the Constitution almost every day), I agree with Steven that the federal government should not be dictating curriculum. And they definitely should not be doing this in the context of a budget resolution.
I've been teaching the unit on federalism to my AP Government class, and it is really striking how many areas the federal government shouldn't be involved in, yet are. After a while, my students, who tend to be a bit liberal and very idealistic, are questions about why the federal government can pass bills in areas like civil rights, crime, and education. Then they open up their little pocket Constitutions and start rereading the 10th Amendment and Article I and asking some very good questions.
I suspect that I will have to devote a lesson to Senator Byrd.
I am a strong believer in federalism and the 10th Amendment, but in this case, Senator KKK Byrd is absolutely correct. Schools are woefully underteaching our most important document, and someone needs to step up and force them to teach our children about the Constitution. For example, at Arizona State University, I was once told that our Constitution was "based on" an Iriquos (sp?) Indian compact. I am not joking. If a college professor is pushing that crap, imagine what the grade school teachers are doing. Betsy should understand as much as anyone that our teachers are ignoring the Constitution, amongst many other important American documents and historical events, while teaching them the wonders of the religion of peace, how Bill Clinton was a better president than Abraham Lincoln, and acting as if Crispus Attacks won the Revolutionary War by himself.
It pains me to type this, but I applaud the old geezer for this one.
[Cross-posted at Confessions of a Political Junkie]
Guest blogging
I have been studying for finals and doing a little guest blogging at Confessions of a Political Junkie. Stop by and take a look.
If you want an example of what I have been suffering with, just read this contracts case that is part of my final, Hamer v. Sidway. It is a fun case and I think you'll get a good laugh from it.
If you want an example of what I have been suffering with, just read this contracts case that is part of my final, Hamer v. Sidway. It is a fun case and I think you'll get a good laugh from it.
Wednesday, December 01, 2004
Monday, November 29, 2004
Ganga for medicinal purposes
I don't know the science of medical marijuana, so I really can't say if it is a good thing or not. However, quotes like these make me skeptical:
WASHINGTON - California's self-described "spokespatient" for medical marijuana watched the Supreme Court debate her case Monday, then pleaded publicly for the justices to allow her and other sick people to continue using the drug.
"Without cannabis, I would not be standing here before you," Angel Raich, 39, of Oakland, Calif., told a news conference after the oral argument.
"I ask the Supreme Court to please help me save my life."
Raich uses marijuana every two hours to fight ailments including tumors, seizures and chronic nausea, and contends she and other severely ill patients could die without it. She even suggested that Chief Justice William Rehnquist might benefit from the drug.
The 80-year-old chief justice is undergoing treatment for thyroid cancer and missed Monday's argument.
"I think he would find that cannabis would help him a lot," Raich said.
First off, who calls it cannabis? She only uses the term because it is more publically acceptable. Second, what makes me unsure is that, during Prohibition, many, many people claimed that they needed liquor for medicinal purposes. So, I don't know who to believe when it comes to the medicinal value of weed.
However, as a hard-core federalist who believes in states' rights, I do not believe that the Federal Government should be involved in this issue, and each state should decide if medical marijuana suits their needs. If you are interested in this case, which was argued today at the Supreme Court, Howard Bashman and The Volokh Conspiracy have top-notch coverage.
If you can educate me about this issue, use the comments to do so. I haven't smoked weed since I was 17 years old, in 1988. It always made me feel like crap, gave me headacges, etc, that is why I don't touch the stuff.
WASHINGTON - California's self-described "spokespatient" for medical marijuana watched the Supreme Court debate her case Monday, then pleaded publicly for the justices to allow her and other sick people to continue using the drug.
"Without cannabis, I would not be standing here before you," Angel Raich, 39, of Oakland, Calif., told a news conference after the oral argument.
"I ask the Supreme Court to please help me save my life."
Raich uses marijuana every two hours to fight ailments including tumors, seizures and chronic nausea, and contends she and other severely ill patients could die without it. She even suggested that Chief Justice William Rehnquist might benefit from the drug.
The 80-year-old chief justice is undergoing treatment for thyroid cancer and missed Monday's argument.
"I think he would find that cannabis would help him a lot," Raich said.
First off, who calls it cannabis? She only uses the term because it is more publically acceptable. Second, what makes me unsure is that, during Prohibition, many, many people claimed that they needed liquor for medicinal purposes. So, I don't know who to believe when it comes to the medicinal value of weed.
However, as a hard-core federalist who believes in states' rights, I do not believe that the Federal Government should be involved in this issue, and each state should decide if medical marijuana suits their needs. If you are interested in this case, which was argued today at the Supreme Court, Howard Bashman and The Volokh Conspiracy have top-notch coverage.
If you can educate me about this issue, use the comments to do so. I haven't smoked weed since I was 17 years old, in 1988. It always made me feel like crap, gave me headacges, etc, that is why I don't touch the stuff.
Guest blogging
I'll be a guest contributor at Confessions of a Political Junkie later this week. Stay tuned.
Liberal judges at it again
This time, in my hometown of Philadelphia, at the Third Circuit:
Colleges Can Bar Army Recruiters
Universities may bar military recruiters from their campuses without risking the loss of federal money, a federal appeals court ruled yesterday.
A three-judge panel of the United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit, in Philadelphia, found that educational institutions have a First Amendment right to keep military recruiters off campuses to protest the Defense Department policy of excluding gays from the military.
The 2-to-1 decision relied in large part on a decision in 2000 by the United States Supreme Court to allow the Boy Scouts to exclude gay scoutmasters. Just as the Scouts have a First Amendment right to bar gays, the appeals court said, law schools may prohibit groups that they consider discriminatory.
The 1995 law at issue in the decision, the Solomon Amendment, barred the federal government from disbursing money to colleges and universities that obstruct campus recruiting by the military. As amended and interpreted over the years, the law prohibits disbursements to all parts of a university, including its physics department and medical school, if any of its units, like its law school, make military recruiting even a little more difficult.
This is pure bullshit. The balls of the judges, to compare the Boy Scouts (A PRIVATE GROUP) excluding homosexuals from membership with a bunch of liberal panises throughout the law schools who think America is better off being overrun with homosexuals than be protected by the military.
I am in law school. I know full well the mindset. They hate the military and love homosexuals. This is perfectly reasonable to these liberals. Skull-fuck the military while screaming about gay rights and First Amendment rights at the same time. If the "Don't ask, don't tell policy" was rescinded tomorrow, they would just whine that they were against the war in Iraq, and thus they can bar military recruiters under their First Amendment rights. And, when that is over, they would say that allowing military recruiters is a de facto draft, and they oppose a draft, etc. Typical something-for-nothing liberals. We have a right to the money, and then we can do whatever the hell we want.
At least one judge, an LBJ appointee, has his head on right:
A dissenting judge, Ruggero J. Aldisert, appointed by President Lyndon B. Johnson, said the decision was misguided, particularly in wartime.
"What disturbs me personally and as a judge," Judge Aldisert wrote, "is that the law schools seem to approach this question as an academic exercise, a question on a constitutional law examination or a moot court topic, with no thought of the effect of their action on the supply of military lawyers and military judges."
"No court heretofore has ever declared unconstitutional on First Amendment grounds any Congressional statute specifically designed to support the military," he added. "It bears note that the military's policy against homosexual activity has been adjudged by a number of our sister courts of appeal not to violate the Constitution."
Judge Aldisert took issue with the majority's First Amendment analysis, noting that nothing in the law forbade the law schools to criticize the military's policy on gays.
My friends, lest we forget that the government is not a faceless entity. It is us. And, today, 2 liberal activist judges have weakened us considerably. However, I expect this to be overrruled en banc, or by the Supreme Court. The decision is a disgrace, and I expect it to be overturned soon enough.
Colleges Can Bar Army Recruiters
Universities may bar military recruiters from their campuses without risking the loss of federal money, a federal appeals court ruled yesterday.
A three-judge panel of the United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit, in Philadelphia, found that educational institutions have a First Amendment right to keep military recruiters off campuses to protest the Defense Department policy of excluding gays from the military.
The 2-to-1 decision relied in large part on a decision in 2000 by the United States Supreme Court to allow the Boy Scouts to exclude gay scoutmasters. Just as the Scouts have a First Amendment right to bar gays, the appeals court said, law schools may prohibit groups that they consider discriminatory.
The 1995 law at issue in the decision, the Solomon Amendment, barred the federal government from disbursing money to colleges and universities that obstruct campus recruiting by the military. As amended and interpreted over the years, the law prohibits disbursements to all parts of a university, including its physics department and medical school, if any of its units, like its law school, make military recruiting even a little more difficult.
This is pure bullshit. The balls of the judges, to compare the Boy Scouts (A PRIVATE GROUP) excluding homosexuals from membership with a bunch of liberal panises throughout the law schools who think America is better off being overrun with homosexuals than be protected by the military.
I am in law school. I know full well the mindset. They hate the military and love homosexuals. This is perfectly reasonable to these liberals. Skull-fuck the military while screaming about gay rights and First Amendment rights at the same time. If the "Don't ask, don't tell policy" was rescinded tomorrow, they would just whine that they were against the war in Iraq, and thus they can bar military recruiters under their First Amendment rights. And, when that is over, they would say that allowing military recruiters is a de facto draft, and they oppose a draft, etc. Typical something-for-nothing liberals. We have a right to the money, and then we can do whatever the hell we want.
At least one judge, an LBJ appointee, has his head on right:
A dissenting judge, Ruggero J. Aldisert, appointed by President Lyndon B. Johnson, said the decision was misguided, particularly in wartime.
"What disturbs me personally and as a judge," Judge Aldisert wrote, "is that the law schools seem to approach this question as an academic exercise, a question on a constitutional law examination or a moot court topic, with no thought of the effect of their action on the supply of military lawyers and military judges."
"No court heretofore has ever declared unconstitutional on First Amendment grounds any Congressional statute specifically designed to support the military," he added. "It bears note that the military's policy against homosexual activity has been adjudged by a number of our sister courts of appeal not to violate the Constitution."
Judge Aldisert took issue with the majority's First Amendment analysis, noting that nothing in the law forbade the law schools to criticize the military's policy on gays.
My friends, lest we forget that the government is not a faceless entity. It is us. And, today, 2 liberal activist judges have weakened us considerably. However, I expect this to be overrruled en banc, or by the Supreme Court. The decision is a disgrace, and I expect it to be overturned soon enough.
Condolences to Miguel Estrada
Mr. Estrada lost his wife on Sunday. He is in his early 40's, so I assume his wife was around that age too. Our thoughts are prayers are with his family.
U.N. Tomfoolery
That laugh house know as the United Nations has two new howlers today:
Annan 'surprised' at son's link to oil-for-food scandal
The United Nations has revealed that the son of the secretary general, Kofi Annan, worked for a company being investigated in the Iraqi oil-for-food scandal for four years longer than he first admitted.
Mr Annan said last night he was "very disappointed and surprised" that his son Kojo had not told him the full story of his links to Cotecna in Geneva.
The oil-for-food scheme allowed Iraq, which was under UN sanctions, to export limited quantities of oil in return for food and medicine. It later emerged that Saddam Hussein diverted billions of dollars from the scheme to bribe officials.
Cotecna was hired by the UN between December 1998 and 2003 to check civilian supplies reaching Iraq under the programme.
The UN had previously stated that Mr Annan's son stopped working for Cotecna in February 1999. But a UN spokesman, Fred Eckhard, said Kojo Annan's laywers had informed a UN inquiry that he continued to receive monthly payments until February 2003.
Yeah, OK. Kofi Annan may be a worthless scumbag, be his isn't dumb. He knew damn well what Kojo was up to. His excuse reminds me of a guy who gets caught in bed with another woman, and says, "Honey, I tripped and my dick just fell into her."
And then there is this:
Time to get tough on terrorism, UN warned
After decades of argument over whether one man's terrorist is another man's freedom fighter, a group of international "wise men" will this week tell the United Nations to outlaw all terror attacks on civilians or risk losing its moral authority.
In a report to be unveiled on Thursday, seen in part by The Telegraph, a panel appointed to reform the UN said it must send "an unequivocal message that terrorism is never an acceptable tactic, even for the most defensible of causes".
Wow!! How original of these "wise men." Just answer me this one question: If these men who are going to tell this to the U.N. are so "wise," what does that say about President Bush, who spoke at the U.N. on September 12, 2002 and said the same exact thing?
Who knows with this bunch. Maybe next week these "wise men" will tell them that they must stop the genocide in Rwanda and solve the Suez Canal crisis. Hell, maybe they'll urge a strong condemnation of the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand while they are at it.
Annan 'surprised' at son's link to oil-for-food scandal
The United Nations has revealed that the son of the secretary general, Kofi Annan, worked for a company being investigated in the Iraqi oil-for-food scandal for four years longer than he first admitted.
Mr Annan said last night he was "very disappointed and surprised" that his son Kojo had not told him the full story of his links to Cotecna in Geneva.
The oil-for-food scheme allowed Iraq, which was under UN sanctions, to export limited quantities of oil in return for food and medicine. It later emerged that Saddam Hussein diverted billions of dollars from the scheme to bribe officials.
Cotecna was hired by the UN between December 1998 and 2003 to check civilian supplies reaching Iraq under the programme.
The UN had previously stated that Mr Annan's son stopped working for Cotecna in February 1999. But a UN spokesman, Fred Eckhard, said Kojo Annan's laywers had informed a UN inquiry that he continued to receive monthly payments until February 2003.
Yeah, OK. Kofi Annan may be a worthless scumbag, be his isn't dumb. He knew damn well what Kojo was up to. His excuse reminds me of a guy who gets caught in bed with another woman, and says, "Honey, I tripped and my dick just fell into her."
And then there is this:
Time to get tough on terrorism, UN warned
After decades of argument over whether one man's terrorist is another man's freedom fighter, a group of international "wise men" will this week tell the United Nations to outlaw all terror attacks on civilians or risk losing its moral authority.
In a report to be unveiled on Thursday, seen in part by The Telegraph, a panel appointed to reform the UN said it must send "an unequivocal message that terrorism is never an acceptable tactic, even for the most defensible of causes".
Wow!! How original of these "wise men." Just answer me this one question: If these men who are going to tell this to the U.N. are so "wise," what does that say about President Bush, who spoke at the U.N. on September 12, 2002 and said the same exact thing?
Who knows with this bunch. Maybe next week these "wise men" will tell them that they must stop the genocide in Rwanda and solve the Suez Canal crisis. Hell, maybe they'll urge a strong condemnation of the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand while they are at it.
Sunday, November 28, 2004
The end of the holiday weekend quick hits
- I am happy to know that Cynthia's daughter is home, and that she can begin the difficult process of restoring her to her normal self. I will continue to hope and pray that Cynthia's daughter will return to her normal self soon. And, although this is a small blog, I received a ton of e-mails from you asking about Katy. Thanks for your concern.
- No one should ever see a football game where the starting quarterbacks are Shaun King and Quincy Carter. I went out to see the Cardinals-Jets game at Sun Devil Stadium here in Tempe, Arizona. It sucked. Not that I really cared about the outcome, but the Jets won 13-3. More importantly, the Eagles are 10-1 and have already clinched the NFC East.
- I don't believe this headline, Tepid Start to Holiday Shopping Season, for two reasons: Gift cards do not count as a sale until used, and even more people will be shopping online this year.
- Have I have told you in the last few days how much I hate the ACLU? Read this article titled, "Bashing the Boy Scouts - One group whose First Amendment rights the ACLU opposes."
- I miss Mark Steyn.
- I have 2 more days of classes, then a week off, then 4 finals over 8 days. After that, I will have gotten further in law school than Al Gore did. (He failed out in his first semester)
- No one should ever see a football game where the starting quarterbacks are Shaun King and Quincy Carter. I went out to see the Cardinals-Jets game at Sun Devil Stadium here in Tempe, Arizona. It sucked. Not that I really cared about the outcome, but the Jets won 13-3. More importantly, the Eagles are 10-1 and have already clinched the NFC East.
- I don't believe this headline, Tepid Start to Holiday Shopping Season, for two reasons: Gift cards do not count as a sale until used, and even more people will be shopping online this year.
- Have I have told you in the last few days how much I hate the ACLU? Read this article titled, "Bashing the Boy Scouts - One group whose First Amendment rights the ACLU opposes."
- I miss Mark Steyn.
- I have 2 more days of classes, then a week off, then 4 finals over 8 days. After that, I will have gotten further in law school than Al Gore did. (He failed out in his first semester)
Wednesday, November 24, 2004
Praise the Lord!!!
Our friend Cynthia's daughter has been found, and she looks to be safe. Here is what she left in the comments:
OT-
WE GOT THEM!
He had her in a homeless park in San Francisco. I'll be back with more when I have it.
Calliope | Email | 11.24.04 - 6:28 pm | #
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-Posted by Cindy's Ex-
Yesterday we received an e-mail from Bennet. Cindy had sent him an e-mail a few days after he abducted Katy attempting to guilt trip him into responding. Apparently he went to a McDonald's that had internet access in SF, checked in with his Elftown site (which immediately set off alarms at the FBI) and replied to the e-mail.
Using the header information in less than 24hrs the FBI was able to localize where he had logged on. They called SFPD and blanketed the area with agents and fliers. Around 3pm they found them.
I just dropped Cindy off on the corner of a freeway where she was picked up by 3 FBI Agents (in the stereotypical Crown Victoria) and wisked away to Hobby Airport for a flight to SF where Katy is in the custody of SF CPS.
Calliope | Email | 11.24.04 - 7:44 pm | #
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The individual FBI Agents on this case, specifically Rhea, Walker and I believe Young, along with a female agent (whos name I never got) were the absolute embodiment of professionalism. They would make you damn proud as neighbors and fellow Americans. They worked weekends including Sundays - many times overnight, including last night. They made me damn glad, grateful even, to pay my taxes. I will never forget them.
I think it is worth noting that they used tools provided in part by the Patriot Act to help find my daughter.
Also I want to publicly thank Detective B. Cowey of the League City Police Department. This man was a rock. Through thick and thin, when he was sick on a Sunday and could hardly speak, he was available to return my calls. In my opinion he is a hero.
Calliope | Email | 11.24.04 - 7:45 pm | #
I cannot tell you how much better my Thanksgiving will be. I don't know Cynthia, by I like her comments here and I am sure if I knew her I'd like her at on. I am so happy her beautiful daughter has been found. Thank you all for caring, your e-mails, and comments. This is a small blog, with about 250 hits a day, but the commenters and e-mailers I do get seem to be great people who care about people and our country as much as I do.
Cynthia, keep us updated.
OT-
WE GOT THEM!
He had her in a homeless park in San Francisco. I'll be back with more when I have it.
Calliope | Email | 11.24.04 - 6:28 pm | #
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-Posted by Cindy's Ex-
Yesterday we received an e-mail from Bennet. Cindy had sent him an e-mail a few days after he abducted Katy attempting to guilt trip him into responding. Apparently he went to a McDonald's that had internet access in SF, checked in with his Elftown site (which immediately set off alarms at the FBI) and replied to the e-mail.
Using the header information in less than 24hrs the FBI was able to localize where he had logged on. They called SFPD and blanketed the area with agents and fliers. Around 3pm they found them.
I just dropped Cindy off on the corner of a freeway where she was picked up by 3 FBI Agents (in the stereotypical Crown Victoria) and wisked away to Hobby Airport for a flight to SF where Katy is in the custody of SF CPS.
Calliope | Email | 11.24.04 - 7:44 pm | #
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The individual FBI Agents on this case, specifically Rhea, Walker and I believe Young, along with a female agent (whos name I never got) were the absolute embodiment of professionalism. They would make you damn proud as neighbors and fellow Americans. They worked weekends including Sundays - many times overnight, including last night. They made me damn glad, grateful even, to pay my taxes. I will never forget them.
I think it is worth noting that they used tools provided in part by the Patriot Act to help find my daughter.
Also I want to publicly thank Detective B. Cowey of the League City Police Department. This man was a rock. Through thick and thin, when he was sick on a Sunday and could hardly speak, he was available to return my calls. In my opinion he is a hero.
Calliope | Email | 11.24.04 - 7:45 pm | #
I cannot tell you how much better my Thanksgiving will be. I don't know Cynthia, by I like her comments here and I am sure if I knew her I'd like her at on. I am so happy her beautiful daughter has been found. Thank you all for caring, your e-mails, and comments. This is a small blog, with about 250 hits a day, but the commenters and e-mailers I do get seem to be great people who care about people and our country as much as I do.
Cynthia, keep us updated.
Tuesday, November 23, 2004
Must be reading the New York Times
F The ACLU
I don't care much for Joseph Farah of World Net Daily. I think he is borderline insane at times, and, because of him, I rarely venture onto that site. However, his latest article could have written by me:
Will Bush defend Scouts?
My favorite part:
In fact, it's time for Americans to recognize the ACLU for what it is – a determined enemy within, a fifth column adversary, an anti-American army of litigators, a band of narrow-minded secular fundamentalist extremists who must be fought as if our very lives depended upon victory.
The ACLU has ceased to be a source of amusement for me. The ACLU has ceased to be an organization of loyal opposition. The ACLU has ceased to play a constructive role of "devil's advocate" in America. The ACLU is the enemy. It must be destroyed.
Indeed.
Will Bush defend Scouts?
My favorite part:
In fact, it's time for Americans to recognize the ACLU for what it is – a determined enemy within, a fifth column adversary, an anti-American army of litigators, a band of narrow-minded secular fundamentalist extremists who must be fought as if our very lives depended upon victory.
The ACLU has ceased to be a source of amusement for me. The ACLU has ceased to be an organization of loyal opposition. The ACLU has ceased to play a constructive role of "devil's advocate" in America. The ACLU is the enemy. It must be destroyed.
Indeed.
The Declaration of Independence Unconstitutional?
I didn't know whether to laugh or get angry after I read this:
California teacher censored
School district forbids teacher from providing handouts that reference significant documents in U.S. history because they mention God
CUPERTINO, Calif.—Attorneys with the Alliance Defense Fund filed suit yesterday against the Cupertino Union School District for prohibiting a teacher from providing supplemental handouts to students about American history because the historical documents contain some references to God and religion.
“Throwing aside all common sense, the district has chosen to censor men such as George Washington and documents like the Declaration of Independence. The district’s actions conflict with American beliefs and are completely unconstitutional,” said ADF Senior Counsel Gary McCaleb. “In addition, they have wrongfully applied their policy to only one teacher, who is a professed Christian.”
Patricia Vidmar, the principal of Stevens Creek School, ordered the Christian teacher—but no others—to submit all of his lesson plans and supplemental handouts to her for review in advance. Documents the teacher, Stephen Williams, submitted that Vidmar rejected include excerpts from the Declaration of Independence, the diaries of George Washington and John Adams, the writings of William Penn, and various state constitutions.
My friends, America is under attack from within, one brick at a time. Thank God for the Alliance Defense Fund, who defends American traditions and values.
California teacher censored
School district forbids teacher from providing handouts that reference significant documents in U.S. history because they mention God
CUPERTINO, Calif.—Attorneys with the Alliance Defense Fund filed suit yesterday against the Cupertino Union School District for prohibiting a teacher from providing supplemental handouts to students about American history because the historical documents contain some references to God and religion.
“Throwing aside all common sense, the district has chosen to censor men such as George Washington and documents like the Declaration of Independence. The district’s actions conflict with American beliefs and are completely unconstitutional,” said ADF Senior Counsel Gary McCaleb. “In addition, they have wrongfully applied their policy to only one teacher, who is a professed Christian.”
Patricia Vidmar, the principal of Stevens Creek School, ordered the Christian teacher—but no others—to submit all of his lesson plans and supplemental handouts to her for review in advance. Documents the teacher, Stephen Williams, submitted that Vidmar rejected include excerpts from the Declaration of Independence, the diaries of George Washington and John Adams, the writings of William Penn, and various state constitutions.
My friends, America is under attack from within, one brick at a time. Thank God for the Alliance Defense Fund, who defends American traditions and values.
I ain't saying he should have done this...
...but I understand.
Lawyer arrested after charging judge's bench
NEW YORK (AP) _ A lawyer who entered a Manhattan courtroom yelling and cursing without apparent provocation was subdued after a violent struggle and arrested Monday when he allegedly rushed toward the judge who was on the bench.
Court officers subdued Jemal Deshong, who will be 29 on Thanksgiving Day, and took him to Bellevue Hospital Center for psychiatric observation, said John McKillop, president of the New York State Supreme Court Officers Association.
Deshong entered Justice Bonnie Wittner's courtroom on the seventh floor of state Supreme Court around 10:25 a.m. and approached the business area, McKillop said. He said Deshong yelled, "I have access! I'm entitled!" and officers told him to sit down.
McKillop said Deshong began yelling profanity at the court officers and then rushed through the swinging gate into the business well and toward Wittner. He said a struggle began in which Officer Mike Dallo suffered a leg injury and a table was broken.
I am about 3 weeks from finishing my first semester at law school, and I have complete sympathy for this guy.
Lawyer arrested after charging judge's bench
NEW YORK (AP) _ A lawyer who entered a Manhattan courtroom yelling and cursing without apparent provocation was subdued after a violent struggle and arrested Monday when he allegedly rushed toward the judge who was on the bench.
Court officers subdued Jemal Deshong, who will be 29 on Thanksgiving Day, and took him to Bellevue Hospital Center for psychiatric observation, said John McKillop, president of the New York State Supreme Court Officers Association.
Deshong entered Justice Bonnie Wittner's courtroom on the seventh floor of state Supreme Court around 10:25 a.m. and approached the business area, McKillop said. He said Deshong yelled, "I have access! I'm entitled!" and officers told him to sit down.
McKillop said Deshong began yelling profanity at the court officers and then rushed through the swinging gate into the business well and toward Wittner. He said a struggle began in which Officer Mike Dallo suffered a leg injury and a table was broken.
I am about 3 weeks from finishing my first semester at law school, and I have complete sympathy for this guy.
Are you a sex offender? The ACLU has your back
The ACLU is the sex offender's best friend, especially if they are a scumbag, lowlife pedophile. Taking some time out from defending NAMBLA, the ACLU is out to protect child molesters in Hawaii:
ACLU tries to overturn amendment in Hawaii
The American Civil Liberties Union of Hawaii has asked the state Supreme Court to invalidate a state constitutional amendment approved by 65 percent of Hawaii voters because the 2004 Legislature allegedly erred in the process of getting it on the ballot.
The ACLU lawsuit filed yesterday against Gov. Linda Lingle and chief elections officer Dwayne Yoshina claims, "The Legislature neglected to follow the mandatory requirements of the Hawaii Constitution."
Voters overwhelmingly said yes to amending the Constitution "to provide that the Legislature may define what behavior constitutes a continuing course of conduct in sexual assault crimes."
ACLU attorney Lois Perrin said the error occurred when legislators sought to override a 2003 Hawaii Supreme Court ruling that threw out a sexual assault conviction because the court found the law violated the defendant's due process. The law provides that jurors can find someone guilty of "continuous sexual assault" if they agree that the defendant assaulted a child at least three times, even if they are not unanimous on specific incidents of assault.
Funny how the ACLU screams due process violations everytime pedophiles are targeted by the law. Death, taxes, and the ACLU protecting child molesters. You can count on it.
ACLU tries to overturn amendment in Hawaii
The American Civil Liberties Union of Hawaii has asked the state Supreme Court to invalidate a state constitutional amendment approved by 65 percent of Hawaii voters because the 2004 Legislature allegedly erred in the process of getting it on the ballot.
The ACLU lawsuit filed yesterday against Gov. Linda Lingle and chief elections officer Dwayne Yoshina claims, "The Legislature neglected to follow the mandatory requirements of the Hawaii Constitution."
Voters overwhelmingly said yes to amending the Constitution "to provide that the Legislature may define what behavior constitutes a continuing course of conduct in sexual assault crimes."
ACLU attorney Lois Perrin said the error occurred when legislators sought to override a 2003 Hawaii Supreme Court ruling that threw out a sexual assault conviction because the court found the law violated the defendant's due process. The law provides that jurors can find someone guilty of "continuous sexual assault" if they agree that the defendant assaulted a child at least three times, even if they are not unanimous on specific incidents of assault.
Funny how the ACLU screams due process violations everytime pedophiles are targeted by the law. Death, taxes, and the ACLU protecting child molesters. You can count on it.
Bud Selig must be a Democrat
How else could you explain his incompetence? I could list a myriad of reasons why he should have been axed a long time ago, but here I will just concentrate on the latest fiasco: The Expos moving to Washington D.C. Selig allows it, announces it, but the Expos (now named The Nationals) have no place to play except at the disgraceful RFK Stadium, and a promised new stadium is nowhere near settled, and may not even happen. (Doug Brandow has great insight into the deal here.)
Major League Baseball should have just moved the Expos to Portland, Oregon. (Here are some arguments for and against that) Portland may be in psycho-liberal Oregon, but at least they would get their shit together in hurry. Washington D.C., on the other hand, is one of the most, if not the most, mismanaged cities in America. Combine D.C.'s government with the galactic incompetence of Bud Selig, and disaster is sure to follow.
Of course, Selig wants to put a team there to kiss Congress' ass, so they won't take away the anti-trust exemption MLB enjoys. This situation is only going to get worse, you watch.
Go Phillies!!!
Major League Baseball should have just moved the Expos to Portland, Oregon. (Here are some arguments for and against that) Portland may be in psycho-liberal Oregon, but at least they would get their shit together in hurry. Washington D.C., on the other hand, is one of the most, if not the most, mismanaged cities in America. Combine D.C.'s government with the galactic incompetence of Bud Selig, and disaster is sure to follow.
Of course, Selig wants to put a team there to kiss Congress' ass, so they won't take away the anti-trust exemption MLB enjoys. This situation is only going to get worse, you watch.
Go Phillies!!!
Monday, November 22, 2004
Top movie quotes
The AFI has compiled a list of the 400 nominees for the top 100 movie quotes of all time. I haven't read tham all, and don't know if any of these are on the list, but here are some of my favorites, off the top of my head.
My all-time favorite: "You're good kid, but as long as I'm around you always be second best." - Edward G. Robinson to Steve McQueen in The Cincinnati Kid
- "Now yous can't leave" - Sonny (Chazz Palmentari)to the bikers after he locks the bar door in A Bronx tale
- "My objective? I object when you take a girl out to dinner, and she doesn't put out for you." - Emmitt Fitzhume (Chevy Chase) in Spies Like Us
- "You've been dicking me around ever since we started this turd hunt." Jack Cates (Nick Nolte) in 48 Hours
- "Can You Dig It?" - Syrus in The Warriors
- "Leave the Gun. Take the Cannoli." Clemnza in The Godfather
- "Paulie moved slow, but that was because Paulie didn't have to move for anybody." - Henry Hill (Ray Liotta) in Goodfellas
- "I came here to chew bubble gum and kick ass. And I'm all out of bubble gum." Roddy Piper in They Live
- "All I got in this world is my word and my balls, and I don't break 'em for nobody." - Tony Montana (Al Pacino) in Scarface
- "Talk to me Goose." Maverick (Tom Cruise) in Top Gun
- "That Sneaky Fucking Russian." - Many times in Snatch
Share some of your in the comments.
My all-time favorite: "You're good kid, but as long as I'm around you always be second best." - Edward G. Robinson to Steve McQueen in The Cincinnati Kid
- "Now yous can't leave" - Sonny (Chazz Palmentari)to the bikers after he locks the bar door in A Bronx tale
- "My objective? I object when you take a girl out to dinner, and she doesn't put out for you." - Emmitt Fitzhume (Chevy Chase) in Spies Like Us
- "You've been dicking me around ever since we started this turd hunt." Jack Cates (Nick Nolte) in 48 Hours
- "Can You Dig It?" - Syrus in The Warriors
- "Leave the Gun. Take the Cannoli." Clemnza in The Godfather
- "Paulie moved slow, but that was because Paulie didn't have to move for anybody." - Henry Hill (Ray Liotta) in Goodfellas
- "I came here to chew bubble gum and kick ass. And I'm all out of bubble gum." Roddy Piper in They Live
- "All I got in this world is my word and my balls, and I don't break 'em for nobody." - Tony Montana (Al Pacino) in Scarface
- "Talk to me Goose." Maverick (Tom Cruise) in Top Gun
- "That Sneaky Fucking Russian." - Many times in Snatch
Share some of your in the comments.
Tell me...
...that when you saw this headline, you didn't have about 100 different thoughts in your head during the half-second it took you to click on it.
Vanilla Ice reunited with wallaroo, goat
Downright hilarious, to say the least.
Vanilla Ice reunited with wallaroo, goat
Downright hilarious, to say the least.
SpongeBob Movie
Stephanie and I took our nephew to see the SpongeBob Squarepants movie today. It was corny, stupid, absurd, and cheesy. And I enjoyed every minute of it. The scenes with David Hasselhoff were perhaps the most ridiculous things I have seen on screen since I saw The Village. However, unlike that crap movie, the ridiculousness of the scenes were enjoyable to watch.
I am not surprised the movie made $33 million over the weekend, and I will not be surprised if it surpasses $100 million. How could you not like SpongeBob? It is a fun movie for the kids, and I recommend you take your young ones to see it. I only wish Mr. Krab and Squidward were more prominently featured.
I am not surprised the movie made $33 million over the weekend, and I will not be surprised if it surpasses $100 million. How could you not like SpongeBob? It is a fun movie for the kids, and I recommend you take your young ones to see it. I only wish Mr. Krab and Squidward were more prominently featured.
Good ol' historical Camden
I laughed when I read this:
Camden, N.J., Named Most-Dangerous City
In case you don't know, Camden is right across the Delaware River from Philadelphia. I lived very close to Camden my entire life, and it is a galactic shithole. The town is so corrupt, it was under the control the state police for years. I think the last 2 or 3 mayors are all in jail for corruption as well.
Camden is finished as a city. My mother lived there in the late 1960's, and she cannot believe what has come of it. Most of the houses are boarded up, and I wouldn't go near Admiral Wilson Boulevard at night, lest I got a flat or broke down.
If one were so inclined, Camden would serve as the perfect sociological model for the failure of Democratic politics. Political corruption, labor unions, the war on poverty, welfare, you name it. All have conspired to destroy Camden over the past 40 years.
When I was on jury duty for nearly a month in 1998, I had to go to downtown Camden everyday. One night, because the witness would be unavailable, the judge had us stay until 6:30. Since it was December, it was already dark outside. The judge had the guards escort us to either the high-speed line or our cars, because even he understood what kind of city Camden is.
Camden, N.J., Named Most-Dangerous City
In case you don't know, Camden is right across the Delaware River from Philadelphia. I lived very close to Camden my entire life, and it is a galactic shithole. The town is so corrupt, it was under the control the state police for years. I think the last 2 or 3 mayors are all in jail for corruption as well.
Camden is finished as a city. My mother lived there in the late 1960's, and she cannot believe what has come of it. Most of the houses are boarded up, and I wouldn't go near Admiral Wilson Boulevard at night, lest I got a flat or broke down.
If one were so inclined, Camden would serve as the perfect sociological model for the failure of Democratic politics. Political corruption, labor unions, the war on poverty, welfare, you name it. All have conspired to destroy Camden over the past 40 years.
When I was on jury duty for nearly a month in 1998, I had to go to downtown Camden everyday. One night, because the witness would be unavailable, the judge had us stay until 6:30. Since it was December, it was already dark outside. The judge had the guards escort us to either the high-speed line or our cars, because even he understood what kind of city Camden is.
Where's Michael Moore when you need him?
Saudis, Arabs Funneled Millions to President Clinton's Library
[Hat tip" Schpeen]
Oh, here is the fat slob:
Michael Moore Tops List of Least-Intriguing Stars
LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - Director Michael Moore, whose anti-Iraq war film "Fahrenheit 9/11" sparked a firestorm of controversy before becoming a post-election footnote, topped an annual list on Monday of Hollywood's "coldest" celebrities.
The outspoken documentarian, who seemed to be everywhere during the 2004 U.S. presidential campaign, urging defeat of President Bush, ranks No. 1 on this year's "Frigid 50" roster of lackluster stars published by online movie magazine FilmThreat.com.
The Web site, known for an anti-establishment take on the entertainment industry, said its list names the stars it found to be the "the polar opposite of the hottest celebrities: these are the least powerful, least-inspiring, least-intriguing people in Hollywood."
"The Frigid 50 ice pack have left audiences cold with their overbearing personalities, poor career choices and chronic inability to stop making fools of themselves," the site said.
Moore qualified because of what the editors saw as an oversized ego. "Message to Michael: Remember, it's not always about you. Lose the chip on your shoulder," the editors said.
Really, outside of college campuses, does anyone really give a shit about what that scumbag had to say? Of course not. What always makes me laugh is how Michael Moore charges $30,000 to bitch about rich white people and how President Bush and Vice President Cheney are getting rich off of the Saudis and Haliburton. He is a modern-day P.T. Barnum, laughing all the way to the bank, thanks to suckers like many of my law school classmates.
[Hat tip" Schpeen]
Oh, here is the fat slob:
Michael Moore Tops List of Least-Intriguing Stars
LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - Director Michael Moore, whose anti-Iraq war film "Fahrenheit 9/11" sparked a firestorm of controversy before becoming a post-election footnote, topped an annual list on Monday of Hollywood's "coldest" celebrities.
The outspoken documentarian, who seemed to be everywhere during the 2004 U.S. presidential campaign, urging defeat of President Bush, ranks No. 1 on this year's "Frigid 50" roster of lackluster stars published by online movie magazine FilmThreat.com.
The Web site, known for an anti-establishment take on the entertainment industry, said its list names the stars it found to be the "the polar opposite of the hottest celebrities: these are the least powerful, least-inspiring, least-intriguing people in Hollywood."
"The Frigid 50 ice pack have left audiences cold with their overbearing personalities, poor career choices and chronic inability to stop making fools of themselves," the site said.
Moore qualified because of what the editors saw as an oversized ego. "Message to Michael: Remember, it's not always about you. Lose the chip on your shoulder," the editors said.
Really, outside of college campuses, does anyone really give a shit about what that scumbag had to say? Of course not. What always makes me laugh is how Michael Moore charges $30,000 to bitch about rich white people and how President Bush and Vice President Cheney are getting rich off of the Saudis and Haliburton. He is a modern-day P.T. Barnum, laughing all the way to the bank, thanks to suckers like many of my law school classmates.
NBA Tomfoolery
Someone actually cares what I think about the Friday night brawl between the Pacers and the Detroit fans. (Video here)
I just watched ESPN break down the video like it was the Zapruder film. Who cares? The NBA sucks. Ron Artest had no business going into the stands over getting hit with a cup, especially since he had no clue who did it. He deserved to be suspended for the rest of the season. (Besides, Artest wanted time off to promote his crap, uh, rap album. Now, he has all the time he needs and then some.) Jermaine O'Neal, who had no business escalating the fight, got off easy with a 25-game suspension. He should have gotten suspended the rest of the season as well.
The fans aren't blameless here either. Us Philly fans get a bad rap, but, let's face it, Detroit fans have far surpassed us in being pure jerkoffs in the stands. The fans at that game were out of hand, even after the fighting ended, throwing drinks all over the place. I even saw one guy just stand there are pour out his drink right on someone's head. A few them need to be arrested for what they did. And I am sure there will be arrests.
Frankly, I don't give one damn about the NBA. I think the level of play is a joke. All dunking, zero fundamentals. I would watch it if the players were like Tim Duncan, but sadly, they are more like Artest. Duncan is a fundamentally sound player who actually uses the backboard to sink 10-12 foot jumpers. And, Duncan is the kind of guy who you really get to admire after watching him. Other than Yao Ming, I can't at this moment think of an NBA player I like. I haven't watched a game front to back since the 76ers were in the 2001 NBA Finals, and I won't be watching a full game until the 76ers are back in the finals, that I can assure you of.
The NBA is a garbage league that is full of overpaid, no-talent thugs. Why bother?
I just watched ESPN break down the video like it was the Zapruder film. Who cares? The NBA sucks. Ron Artest had no business going into the stands over getting hit with a cup, especially since he had no clue who did it. He deserved to be suspended for the rest of the season. (Besides, Artest wanted time off to promote his crap, uh, rap album. Now, he has all the time he needs and then some.) Jermaine O'Neal, who had no business escalating the fight, got off easy with a 25-game suspension. He should have gotten suspended the rest of the season as well.
The fans aren't blameless here either. Us Philly fans get a bad rap, but, let's face it, Detroit fans have far surpassed us in being pure jerkoffs in the stands. The fans at that game were out of hand, even after the fighting ended, throwing drinks all over the place. I even saw one guy just stand there are pour out his drink right on someone's head. A few them need to be arrested for what they did. And I am sure there will be arrests.
Frankly, I don't give one damn about the NBA. I think the level of play is a joke. All dunking, zero fundamentals. I would watch it if the players were like Tim Duncan, but sadly, they are more like Artest. Duncan is a fundamentally sound player who actually uses the backboard to sink 10-12 foot jumpers. And, Duncan is the kind of guy who you really get to admire after watching him. Other than Yao Ming, I can't at this moment think of an NBA player I like. I haven't watched a game front to back since the 76ers were in the 2001 NBA Finals, and I won't be watching a full game until the 76ers are back in the finals, that I can assure you of.
The NBA is a garbage league that is full of overpaid, no-talent thugs. Why bother?
Sunday, November 21, 2004
Can you imagine Kerry doing this?
Of course Kerry would never have done anything like this. He would have called the guy a "son of a bitch" for upsetting the Chileans.
Bush Pulls Top Security Agent From Fracas
SANTIAGO, Chile (AP) - President Bush stepped into the middle of a confrontation and pulled his lead Secret Service agent away from Chilean security officials who barred his bodyguards from entering an elegant dinner for 21 world leaders Saturday night.
Several Chilean and American agents got into a pushing and shoving match outside the cultural center where the dinner was held. The incident happened after Bush and his wife, Laura, had just posed for pictures on a red carpet with the host of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit, Chilean President Ricardo Lagos and his wife, Luisa Duran.
As Bush stepped inside, Chilean agents closed ranks at the door, blocking the president's agents from following. Stopping for more pictures, Bush noticed the fracas and turned back. He reached through the dispute and pulled his agent from the scrum and into the building.
Here's the photo:
This, in a nutshell, is why Bush received 60 million votes. The liberal media loves to make a big deal about Bush demanding loyalty, but here you can see it works both ways for him. And that is how it should be.
[Update: As expected, The Daily Recycler has the video. Nice work by W.)
Bush Pulls Top Security Agent From Fracas
SANTIAGO, Chile (AP) - President Bush stepped into the middle of a confrontation and pulled his lead Secret Service agent away from Chilean security officials who barred his bodyguards from entering an elegant dinner for 21 world leaders Saturday night.
Several Chilean and American agents got into a pushing and shoving match outside the cultural center where the dinner was held. The incident happened after Bush and his wife, Laura, had just posed for pictures on a red carpet with the host of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit, Chilean President Ricardo Lagos and his wife, Luisa Duran.
As Bush stepped inside, Chilean agents closed ranks at the door, blocking the president's agents from following. Stopping for more pictures, Bush noticed the fracas and turned back. He reached through the dispute and pulled his agent from the scrum and into the building.
Here's the photo:
This, in a nutshell, is why Bush received 60 million votes. The liberal media loves to make a big deal about Bush demanding loyalty, but here you can see it works both ways for him. And that is how it should be.
[Update: As expected, The Daily Recycler has the video. Nice work by W.)
Saturday, November 20, 2004
Laugh of the day
Boy sues Mom for failing to keep her promise to buy him a computer. After reading this, I realize that I should have sued my parents into 50 bankruptcies.
Those morally superior French
While the world complains about our fine Marine killing some terrorist scumbag who deserved exactly what he got, they are strangely silent on this video of some gutless French soldiers in the Ivory Coast shooting at unarmed civilians. The video takes a while to downlaod, but it is worth it.
From the Unintentional Irony Department
This story in he Washington Post is just too rich to not comment on:
Post Discusses Circulation, Diversity
The WaPo is losing circulation left and right, thanks to their mostly left-wing nonsense. Basically, the paper is falling into the crapper and what is the biggest concern around the building? Why, diversity of course.
Washington Post Executive Editor Leonard Downie Jr. met with hundreds of newsroom staffers yesterday to outline management's latest attempts to combat declining circulation. However, the more intense discussion at the meeting involved diversity at the newspaper, as several minority staff members lamented that a white man recently was chosen over a woman and a black man as the paper's new managing editor.
Philip Bennett, assistant managing editor for foreign news, who is white, was selected by Downie to be the paper's No. 2 editor earlier this month, besting Eugene Robinson, assistant managing editor of Style, who is black, and Liz Spayd, assistant managing editor for national news.
"We're crushed," said national reporter Darryl Fears at the meeting. Fears, who is black, organized two meetings of African American staffers in recent days in response to Bennett's promotion. "A lot of our worst suspicions were confirmed about the ability of African Americans and other minorities to rise to the highest level of the best papers in the world," he said.
The irony of this is so damn thick. It is this liberal attitude that you can feel throughout that rag everyday that is causing the paper to lose readers by the boatload. And, read this quote again:
"A lot of our worst suspicions were confirmed about the ability of African Americans and other minorities to rise to the highest level of the best papers in the world," he said.
This is from a guy who no doubt will not support Condi Rice for one of the highest profile and most powerful positions on the planet.
Liberalism: Funny and sad at the same time.
Post Discusses Circulation, Diversity
The WaPo is losing circulation left and right, thanks to their mostly left-wing nonsense. Basically, the paper is falling into the crapper and what is the biggest concern around the building? Why, diversity of course.
Washington Post Executive Editor Leonard Downie Jr. met with hundreds of newsroom staffers yesterday to outline management's latest attempts to combat declining circulation. However, the more intense discussion at the meeting involved diversity at the newspaper, as several minority staff members lamented that a white man recently was chosen over a woman and a black man as the paper's new managing editor.
Philip Bennett, assistant managing editor for foreign news, who is white, was selected by Downie to be the paper's No. 2 editor earlier this month, besting Eugene Robinson, assistant managing editor of Style, who is black, and Liz Spayd, assistant managing editor for national news.
"We're crushed," said national reporter Darryl Fears at the meeting. Fears, who is black, organized two meetings of African American staffers in recent days in response to Bennett's promotion. "A lot of our worst suspicions were confirmed about the ability of African Americans and other minorities to rise to the highest level of the best papers in the world," he said.
The irony of this is so damn thick. It is this liberal attitude that you can feel throughout that rag everyday that is causing the paper to lose readers by the boatload. And, read this quote again:
"A lot of our worst suspicions were confirmed about the ability of African Americans and other minorities to rise to the highest level of the best papers in the world," he said.
This is from a guy who no doubt will not support Condi Rice for one of the highest profile and most powerful positions on the planet.
Liberalism: Funny and sad at the same time.
Friday, November 19, 2004
Pray the ACLU doesn't find out about this
The scum at the ACLU would have heart failure if they hear about this:
LANDSTUHL, Germany - When wounded troops arrive at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center they often are wearing the same clothes they were wearing when they were injured; usually a dirty desert camouflage uniform, sometimes just a pair of boxer shorts.
The troops receive a $250 voucher from the Department of Defense.
But they are often unable to make it to the nearest Army and Air Force Exchange Services store at Ramstein Air Base for clothes or toiletries.
That's where Landstuhl's Pastoral Services Department comes in.
Pastoral services runs the Chaplain's Closet, a tiny building packed full of donated clothes, toiletries, books, movies and other personal items.
Lt. Col. Robert Hicks is a chaplain with the Alabama Air Guard. He works with Army, Marine, Navy and Air Force chaplains on getting the troops what they need.
This weekend, volunteers delivered wheelchairs full of items to hundreds of troops who arrived from Fallujah in the past week.
Oh My [Reference to diety deleted for fear of ACLU lawsuit]!! This is a serious violation of church and state. What about the feelings of the atheist soldier who has [diety deleted] forced upon him after being wounded? This is an outrage I tell you. I am calling Anthony Romero immediately.
LANDSTUHL, Germany - When wounded troops arrive at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center they often are wearing the same clothes they were wearing when they were injured; usually a dirty desert camouflage uniform, sometimes just a pair of boxer shorts.
The troops receive a $250 voucher from the Department of Defense.
But they are often unable to make it to the nearest Army and Air Force Exchange Services store at Ramstein Air Base for clothes or toiletries.
That's where Landstuhl's Pastoral Services Department comes in.
Pastoral services runs the Chaplain's Closet, a tiny building packed full of donated clothes, toiletries, books, movies and other personal items.
Lt. Col. Robert Hicks is a chaplain with the Alabama Air Guard. He works with Army, Marine, Navy and Air Force chaplains on getting the troops what they need.
This weekend, volunteers delivered wheelchairs full of items to hundreds of troops who arrived from Fallujah in the past week.
Oh My [Reference to diety deleted for fear of ACLU lawsuit]!! This is a serious violation of church and state. What about the feelings of the atheist soldier who has [diety deleted] forced upon him after being wounded? This is an outrage I tell you. I am calling Anthony Romero immediately.
I hope this is true
I never heard of the Khaleej Times, but I hope they are more credible than the New York Times, specially after seeing this story.
UN staff to make historic vote of no confidence in Annan
UNITED NATIONS - UN employees were readying on Friday to make a historic vote of no confidence in scandal-plagued Secretary General Kofi Annan, sources told AFP.
The UN staff union, in what officials said was the first vote of its kind in the more than 50-year history of the United Nations, was set to approve a resolution withdrawing its support for the embattled Annan and UN management.
Annan has been in the line of fire over a high-profile series of scandals including controversy about a UN aid programme that investigators say allowed deposed Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein to embezzle billions of dollars.
But staffers said the trigger for the no-confidence measure was an announcement this week that Annan had pardoned the UN’s top oversight official, who was facing allegations of favouritism and sexual harassment.
The union had requested a formal probe into the behaviour of the official, Dileep Nair, after employees accused him of harassing members of his staff and violating UN rules on the hiring and promotion of workers.
Top UN spokesman Fred Eckhard announced on Tuesday that Nair had been exonerated by Annan “after a thorough review” by the UN’s senior official in charge of management, Catherine Bertini.
Annan belongs in jail, not at the helm of the most currupt organization on the planet.
[Update: It is also on the AP wire (Strangely, not on the front page though. I wonder why that is?) That really doesn't add to the reliability of the story, but I felt I should mention it anyway.)
UN staff to make historic vote of no confidence in Annan
UNITED NATIONS - UN employees were readying on Friday to make a historic vote of no confidence in scandal-plagued Secretary General Kofi Annan, sources told AFP.
The UN staff union, in what officials said was the first vote of its kind in the more than 50-year history of the United Nations, was set to approve a resolution withdrawing its support for the embattled Annan and UN management.
Annan has been in the line of fire over a high-profile series of scandals including controversy about a UN aid programme that investigators say allowed deposed Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein to embezzle billions of dollars.
But staffers said the trigger for the no-confidence measure was an announcement this week that Annan had pardoned the UN’s top oversight official, who was facing allegations of favouritism and sexual harassment.
The union had requested a formal probe into the behaviour of the official, Dileep Nair, after employees accused him of harassing members of his staff and violating UN rules on the hiring and promotion of workers.
Top UN spokesman Fred Eckhard announced on Tuesday that Nair had been exonerated by Annan “after a thorough review” by the UN’s senior official in charge of management, Catherine Bertini.
Annan belongs in jail, not at the helm of the most currupt organization on the planet.
[Update: It is also on the AP wire (Strangely, not on the front page though. I wonder why that is?) That really doesn't add to the reliability of the story, but I felt I should mention it anyway.)
Thursday, November 18, 2004
What's up with Dear Leader?
Roger L. Simon has an interesting post about our pal, that ol' Brillo pad head Kim Jong-Il.
Our allies the French
French insurgents killed in Iraq
Three Frenchmen have died fighting with insurgents against US-led troops in Iraq, reports say.
The men, all of Arab origin, were killed in the country over recent months as the insurgency has flared.
Two of the men were aged 19 and the third was 24 years old, a French official said.
Authorities estimate that around a dozen Frenchmen of North African or Arab background have travelled to Iraq to join the insurgency.
The French, whether they realize it or not, will have to deal with people like this in their own country. They need jihad, and when we are finished, and there is no more jihad to have in Iraq, they won't be going back to work at the sheep bath. They'll be looking for a new target. And France will be it.
Three Frenchmen have died fighting with insurgents against US-led troops in Iraq, reports say.
The men, all of Arab origin, were killed in the country over recent months as the insurgency has flared.
Two of the men were aged 19 and the third was 24 years old, a French official said.
Authorities estimate that around a dozen Frenchmen of North African or Arab background have travelled to Iraq to join the insurgency.
The French, whether they realize it or not, will have to deal with people like this in their own country. They need jihad, and when we are finished, and there is no more jihad to have in Iraq, they won't be going back to work at the sheep bath. They'll be looking for a new target. And France will be it.
From the "They Wish" Department
The Washington Post has some great moments. Sadly, these days, they are more likely to run something as stupid as this:
Right-Wing Wins Take Wind Out of Talk-Show Hosts
Their guy just won reelection by 3.5 million votes. Their party strengthened its majority in the House, in the Senate and in statehouses, with the Supreme Court probably soon to follow. "Moral values" -- their kind of stuff -- are très chic.
This could be a disaster for the nation's right-wing talk-show hosts.
Election Day was a triumph for conservatism, but it may have been a mixed blessing for the people who yak about it on TV and radio. Conservative talk, by far the most popular kind on the airwaves, has always traded on an undercurrent of grievance, a sense of being the underdog against the implacable, oppressive forces of liberal "elitism." The farther conservatives were from power, the better the Us-vs.-Them model worked. The right-wing media matured and prospered under Democrat Bill Clinton, whose two terms in office were a gift that kept on giving to the Limbaughs, G. Gordons, Savages and lesser lights of the electronic right.
This guy obviously hasn't listened to any of the shows that he mentions. They surely aren't continual gripe fests. Unlike (Dead) Air America, who will be off the air before you know it due to their certain-to-fail business model, there is real talent on the conservative talk shows.
Besides, the Democrats will never stop giving us things to mock them about.
Right-Wing Wins Take Wind Out of Talk-Show Hosts
Their guy just won reelection by 3.5 million votes. Their party strengthened its majority in the House, in the Senate and in statehouses, with the Supreme Court probably soon to follow. "Moral values" -- their kind of stuff -- are très chic.
This could be a disaster for the nation's right-wing talk-show hosts.
Election Day was a triumph for conservatism, but it may have been a mixed blessing for the people who yak about it on TV and radio. Conservative talk, by far the most popular kind on the airwaves, has always traded on an undercurrent of grievance, a sense of being the underdog against the implacable, oppressive forces of liberal "elitism." The farther conservatives were from power, the better the Us-vs.-Them model worked. The right-wing media matured and prospered under Democrat Bill Clinton, whose two terms in office were a gift that kept on giving to the Limbaughs, G. Gordons, Savages and lesser lights of the electronic right.
This guy obviously hasn't listened to any of the shows that he mentions. They surely aren't continual gripe fests. Unlike (Dead) Air America, who will be off the air before you know it due to their certain-to-fail business model, there is real talent on the conservative talk shows.
Besides, the Democrats will never stop giving us things to mock them about.
This can't be true
I was shocked, shocked, to read this headline in the New York Times:
Republicans Outnumbered in Academia, Studies Find
Whatever they spent on this study, it was a waste of money. They could have gotten more bag for the buck if they studied whether or not water is wet or whether or not Phoenix is hot in July. At the law school where I attend, every single professor is a registered Democrat. That is no secret around the building. Everyone knows it. And every law student is poorer for it.
I fully understand how this girl feels.
The students' magazine, The California Patriot, has frequently criticized Berkeley for the paucity of conservative views and for cases of what it has called discrimination against conservative students.
"I'm glad to get the liberal perspective, but it would be nice to get the other side, too," said Kelly Coyne, the editor of the magazine and a senior majoring in political science. "I'm really having a hard time finding courses my last year. I don't want to spend another semester listening to lectures about victims of American oppression."
Just yesterday, I sat through an hour long discussion about the torture memo and our "torture" of prisoners at Guantanamo Bay. While I thought the discussion was really nothing more than a bash America fest, I really did not mind it, because I will forever enjoy hashing out unpleasant and controversial issues. What bothers me is that the law school will never discuss the criminality of the U.N. Oil-For-Food scandal, and how Kofi Annan, Kojo Annan, Saddam Hussein, France, Russia and many others made themselves a huge windfall on the backs of the suffering Iraqi people. And, no one at the law school has an interest on how 70,000 people have died while in U.N. refugee camps in Sudan.
And, no one has any interest in discussing the improvement of Afghanistan and Iraq. Of course each situation has problems. No one at the school is shy from discussing those. And that is fine. But, it would be nice (not to mention intellectually honest) to talk about all the good things our troops are doing over there as well.
The America I hear about daily in law school sure isn't the America I live in.
Republicans Outnumbered in Academia, Studies Find
Whatever they spent on this study, it was a waste of money. They could have gotten more bag for the buck if they studied whether or not water is wet or whether or not Phoenix is hot in July. At the law school where I attend, every single professor is a registered Democrat. That is no secret around the building. Everyone knows it. And every law student is poorer for it.
I fully understand how this girl feels.
The students' magazine, The California Patriot, has frequently criticized Berkeley for the paucity of conservative views and for cases of what it has called discrimination against conservative students.
"I'm glad to get the liberal perspective, but it would be nice to get the other side, too," said Kelly Coyne, the editor of the magazine and a senior majoring in political science. "I'm really having a hard time finding courses my last year. I don't want to spend another semester listening to lectures about victims of American oppression."
Just yesterday, I sat through an hour long discussion about the torture memo and our "torture" of prisoners at Guantanamo Bay. While I thought the discussion was really nothing more than a bash America fest, I really did not mind it, because I will forever enjoy hashing out unpleasant and controversial issues. What bothers me is that the law school will never discuss the criminality of the U.N. Oil-For-Food scandal, and how Kofi Annan, Kojo Annan, Saddam Hussein, France, Russia and many others made themselves a huge windfall on the backs of the suffering Iraqi people. And, no one at the law school has an interest on how 70,000 people have died while in U.N. refugee camps in Sudan.
And, no one has any interest in discussing the improvement of Afghanistan and Iraq. Of course each situation has problems. No one at the school is shy from discussing those. And that is fine. But, it would be nice (not to mention intellectually honest) to talk about all the good things our troops are doing over there as well.
The America I hear about daily in law school sure isn't the America I live in.
Our friend Cynthia on Court TV today
Watch Catherine Crier Live on Court TV today at 5PM EST to see Cynthia (Calliope) talk about her daughter. The mother of the scumbag who has her will be on too.
To be honest, I am a little more hopeful everyday that this will end soon, and end happily for Cynthia. I am just glad Cynthia has been getting the TV time to keep her beautiful daughter's picture out there.
To be honest, I am a little more hopeful everyday that this will end soon, and end happily for Cynthia. I am just glad Cynthia has been getting the TV time to keep her beautiful daughter's picture out there.
Hoover Irony
Erick Erickson has the must-read post of the day.
Tuesday, November 16, 2004
Give this guy a medal and move on
By now, you have surely seen the video of one of our fine Marines shooting that insurgent scum. (Watch the unedited video here) Of course, the "blame America first" media, like the Los Angeles Times (video available on page also), offers no honest context. They fail to mention that just the day before, a booby-trapped corpse killed one of their fellow Marines. CNN's story mentions this, but buries it deep in the story:
About a block away, a Marine was killed and five others wounded by a booby-trapped body they found in a house after a shootout with insurgents.
And, faking death is the oldest trick in warfare. Countless number of soldiers have been killed by someone they thought was dead.
Thank God the election is over or we would never hear the end of this. Things like this happen. War is not a clean, neat job where eveything goes the way people want it to go. If our fine Marines really wanted to kill wantonly, they would have leveled the entire building or shot the up room you see in the video before they entered it.
This shooting was justified. End of story.
About a block away, a Marine was killed and five others wounded by a booby-trapped body they found in a house after a shootout with insurgents.
And, faking death is the oldest trick in warfare. Countless number of soldiers have been killed by someone they thought was dead.
Thank God the election is over or we would never hear the end of this. Things like this happen. War is not a clean, neat job where eveything goes the way people want it to go. If our fine Marines really wanted to kill wantonly, they would have leveled the entire building or shot the up room you see in the video before they entered it.
This shooting was justified. End of story.
Kofi needs to come clean
Kofi Annan is a scumbag and a criminal, and needs to be held accountable for the U.N. Oil-for-Food scandal. Claudia Rosett has this brilliant article in the Wall Street Journal that will tell you exactly why.
Come Clean, Kofi
The U.N. secretary-general ducks responsibilty for the Oil for Food scam.
And Harvard Law Student Ben Shapiro adds this:
Kofi Annan and the insanity of international law
My favorite part:
[Annan makes] $227,253 per year simply for blathering against the United States and Israel, and writing perturbed letters to homicidal dictators. You get to pretend moral superiority while providing aid and comfort to terrorists. Plus you get to eat in the finest restaurants in New York.
Kofi Annan deserves all that because he has a busy job. It’s not everyone who runs the most corrupt organization on the planet. It’s a busy lifestyle.
How true. Kofi Annan belongs in Leavenworth.
Come Clean, Kofi
The U.N. secretary-general ducks responsibilty for the Oil for Food scam.
And Harvard Law Student Ben Shapiro adds this:
Kofi Annan and the insanity of international law
My favorite part:
[Annan makes] $227,253 per year simply for blathering against the United States and Israel, and writing perturbed letters to homicidal dictators. You get to pretend moral superiority while providing aid and comfort to terrorists. Plus you get to eat in the finest restaurants in New York.
Kofi Annan deserves all that because he has a busy job. It’s not everyone who runs the most corrupt organization on the planet. It’s a busy lifestyle.
How true. Kofi Annan belongs in Leavenworth.
See Cynthia on Greta tonight
I just read my comments and wish I coul dhave mentioned this earlier. Our friend Cynthia (Calliope in the comments) will be on Fox News Channel's On the Record with Greta Van Susteren to talk about her missing daughter. You can see the final replay at 3:00 am Eastern, Midnight Pacific, so make sure you watch if you can.
Also, she taped Maury Povich today, and I will let you know when that runs. (Or check the comments and Cynthia will tell us)
Please continue to pray for the safe return of her beautiful daughter.
Also, she taped Maury Povich today, and I will let you know when that runs. (Or check the comments and Cynthia will tell us)
Please continue to pray for the safe return of her beautiful daughter.
Monday, November 15, 2004
E-A-G-L-E-S...EAGLES!!!
There is only one thing I enjoy more than watching the Eagles kick ass. It's the Eagles kicking the Cowboys' ass.
A great win tonight. McNabb had the play of the year, threw 4 TD's, and T.O caught 3 of them.
F the Cowboys.
A great win tonight. McNabb had the play of the year, threw 4 TD's, and T.O caught 3 of them.
F the Cowboys.
Here is what a call a "safe for November 3rd story"
This story would have never been published before the election.
Job Prospects Bright for College Seniors
BOSTON - The recovering economy and looming retirement of the baby boomers are making this a very good year to be a college senior looking for a job after graduation. Recruiters, career counselors and students say the fall recruiting season has been the most active since the dot.com boom.
Accountants are again finding increased demand for their services — thanks to the wave of post-Enron regulations — but theirs is just one of several hot fields. Technology companies, investment banks and consulting firms appear to be picking up the pace, as do some defense contractors and even smaller businesses that haven't traditionally recruited on campus.
The "worst economy since Herbert Hoover" seems to have ended real quick, hasn't it?
Job Prospects Bright for College Seniors
BOSTON - The recovering economy and looming retirement of the baby boomers are making this a very good year to be a college senior looking for a job after graduation. Recruiters, career counselors and students say the fall recruiting season has been the most active since the dot.com boom.
Accountants are again finding increased demand for their services — thanks to the wave of post-Enron regulations — but theirs is just one of several hot fields. Technology companies, investment banks and consulting firms appear to be picking up the pace, as do some defense contractors and even smaller businesses that haven't traditionally recruited on campus.
The "worst economy since Herbert Hoover" seems to have ended real quick, hasn't it?
Even worse than we thought
Turns out Saddam didn't actually get $10 billion from the U.N. Oil-for-Food scam. it was more.
Saddam Got $21 Bln from UN Oil Program -U.S. Panel
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Saddam Hussein's regime reaped over $21 billion from kickbacks and smuggling before and during the now-defunct U.N. oil-for-food program, twice as much as previous estimates, according to a U.S. Senate probe on Monday.
The monies flowed between 1991 and 2003 through oil surcharges, kickbacks on civilian goods and smuggling directly to willing governments, Senate investigators said at a hearing.
"How was the world so blind to this massive amount of influence-peddling?" asked Republican Sen. Norm Colemanhead of the investigations subcommittee.
Coleman made public more documents he said were evidence of bigger kickbacks and payments than what was previously known, including 2003 data previously not reviewed.
I have a feeling this is going to be busted wide open now that the lection is over with. Kofi Annan is a scumbag who belongs in jail, along with his son Kojo. But then again, I expect that if someone at the New York Times finds out that Hailburton charged $85.00 for a toilet seat, we'll get 30 front-page stories on it.
Saddam Got $21 Bln from UN Oil Program -U.S. Panel
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Saddam Hussein's regime reaped over $21 billion from kickbacks and smuggling before and during the now-defunct U.N. oil-for-food program, twice as much as previous estimates, according to a U.S. Senate probe on Monday.
The monies flowed between 1991 and 2003 through oil surcharges, kickbacks on civilian goods and smuggling directly to willing governments, Senate investigators said at a hearing.
"How was the world so blind to this massive amount of influence-peddling?" asked Republican Sen. Norm Colemanhead of the investigations subcommittee.
Coleman made public more documents he said were evidence of bigger kickbacks and payments than what was previously known, including 2003 data previously not reviewed.
I have a feeling this is going to be busted wide open now that the lection is over with. Kofi Annan is a scumbag who belongs in jail, along with his son Kojo. But then again, I expect that if someone at the New York Times finds out that Hailburton charged $85.00 for a toilet seat, we'll get 30 front-page stories on it.
Speaking of worthless groups
And this is the state of Amnesty International:
While real human rights violations are occuring worldwide, Amnesty International choose to equate Bush with Nazism. Really, does anyone besides the leftist dopes in the media and on campus really give a shit about this group anymore?
[Thanks to the unsigned e-mailer who sent this to me]
While real human rights violations are occuring worldwide, Amnesty International choose to equate Bush with Nazism. Really, does anyone besides the leftist dopes in the media and on campus really give a shit about this group anymore?
[Thanks to the unsigned e-mailer who sent this to me]
Line of the week
From Gene Simmons, on why he voted for Bush:
"In time of war, if you go through a bad neighborhood, I don't want a little French poodle, I want a rottweiler on my hands."
"In time of war, if you go through a bad neighborhood, I don't want a little French poodle, I want a rottweiler on my hands."
The ACLU jihad continues
Those dirtbags at the ACLU continue to wage a jihad on the Boy Scouts, and now have been able to get the gutless worms at The Pentagon to go along.
Military Bases Warned on Boy Scouts
CHICAGO - The Pentagon has agreed to warn military bases worldwide that they should not directly sponsor Boy Scout troops, partially resolving claims that the government has improperly supported a group that requires members to believe in God.
The settlement, announced Monday, came in a lawsuit filed by the American Civil Liberties Union of Illinois, which says American military units have sponsored hundreds of Boy Scout troops.
"If our Constitution's promise of religious liberty is to be a reality, the government should not be administering religious oaths or discriminating based on religious beliefs," said ACLU attorney Adam Schwartz.
That is pure bullshit. This is all about The Boy Scouts' failure to intergrate the homosexual lifestyle into their mission, and pure revenge from the 2000 Supreme Court case, Boy Scouts of America v. Dale, where the Court ruled that the Boy Scouts do not have to accept homosexuals as members or scout leaders.
The Boy Scouts create, and the ACLU destroys. I don't know about you, but if my life were on the line, I'd rather have a Boy Scout there to help me than a worthless ACLU lawyer. It is a damn same that the ACLU gets their way without people putting up a real fight.
My friends, herein lies the state of civil liberties in this country. The ACLU can't find that much legitimate rights' violations to complain about, so they need to come up with this to keep themselves relevant. If you are an ACLU member, of if you have given them money, you need to ask yourself why.
Military Bases Warned on Boy Scouts
CHICAGO - The Pentagon has agreed to warn military bases worldwide that they should not directly sponsor Boy Scout troops, partially resolving claims that the government has improperly supported a group that requires members to believe in God.
The settlement, announced Monday, came in a lawsuit filed by the American Civil Liberties Union of Illinois, which says American military units have sponsored hundreds of Boy Scout troops.
"If our Constitution's promise of religious liberty is to be a reality, the government should not be administering religious oaths or discriminating based on religious beliefs," said ACLU attorney Adam Schwartz.
That is pure bullshit. This is all about The Boy Scouts' failure to intergrate the homosexual lifestyle into their mission, and pure revenge from the 2000 Supreme Court case, Boy Scouts of America v. Dale, where the Court ruled that the Boy Scouts do not have to accept homosexuals as members or scout leaders.
The Boy Scouts create, and the ACLU destroys. I don't know about you, but if my life were on the line, I'd rather have a Boy Scout there to help me than a worthless ACLU lawyer. It is a damn same that the ACLU gets their way without people putting up a real fight.
My friends, herein lies the state of civil liberties in this country. The ACLU can't find that much legitimate rights' violations to complain about, so they need to come up with this to keep themselves relevant. If you are an ACLU member, of if you have given them money, you need to ask yourself why.
This is great news
Bush Chooses Rice to Replace Powell
I'd like to thank Mr. Powell for his terrific service to our country. We were damn lucky to have a man like him representing us. Now, he can go to the private sector and rake in some real cash.
As for Rice, I am happy as hell at her nomination. I expect, however, her confirmation hearing will be another rehash of the Iraq War debate by the Democrats. After she is confirmed, I hope she will take a hatchet to Foggy Bottom, that bastion of internationalist liberals who are more worried about diplomacy than what is in the American interest.
The fun is just beginning.
I'd like to thank Mr. Powell for his terrific service to our country. We were damn lucky to have a man like him representing us. Now, he can go to the private sector and rake in some real cash.
As for Rice, I am happy as hell at her nomination. I expect, however, her confirmation hearing will be another rehash of the Iraq War debate by the Democrats. After she is confirmed, I hope she will take a hatchet to Foggy Bottom, that bastion of internationalist liberals who are more worried about diplomacy than what is in the American interest.
The fun is just beginning.
Does anyone really care what Chirac says?
Jacques Chirac is an arrogant prick. He hasn't doen anything useful since he was a soda jerk at a Howard Johnson's back in the summer of 1953. Get this latest bit of crap from that wanker:
Backing Bush has won you nothing, Chirac tells Britain
JACQUES CHIRAC dealt a blow to Tony Blair’s attempt to heal the wounds between the US and Europe last night by saying that the Prime Minister had won nothing for supporting the war against Iraq.
As Mr Blair used a keynote speech to present Britain as a “bridge across the Atlantic”, President Chirac doubted whether anyone could play the “honest broker”. Speaking before he visits London on Thursday, he said that it was not in the nature of this Administration to return favours...
M Chirac, speaking to British journalists, including The Times, soon after General Powell’s announcement, revealed that he had urged Mr Blair to demand the relaunch of the Middle East peace process in return for backing the war.
“Well, Britain gave its support but I did not see anything in return. I’m not sure it is in the nature of our American friends at the moment to return favours systematically.”
In other remarks that will sting the Bush Administration, he again outlined his vision of a “multipolar” world in which a united Europe would be equal with the US, and mocked Donald Rumsfeld, the US Defence Secretary, for his division of Europe into old and new.
M Chirac said that there would be no division between Britain and France.
“It is like that nice guy in America — what’s his name again? — who spoke about ‘old Europe’. It has no sense. It’s a lack of culture to imagine that. Imagining that there can be division between the British and French vision of Europe is as absurd as imagining that we are building Europe against the United States.”
The comments underline the scale of the task facing Mr Blair as he tries to be a bridge between Europe and America, a job to which he devoted last night’s foreign policy speech at Guildhall in London.
I think the British people are smart enough to realize that they are better off taking America's side than France's. Besides, who really gives a shit what Chirac thinks? France and the EU will never be a counterbalance to the United States, especially when their economies are socialized and their militaries are a joke.
Chirac is a criminal, and he has a lot of balls talking about ho and who isn't an "honest broker." I've said it before and I'll say it again. When the smoke clears, Bush, Blair and Howard will still be around, and Chirac and Schroeder will be gone.
Backing Bush has won you nothing, Chirac tells Britain
JACQUES CHIRAC dealt a blow to Tony Blair’s attempt to heal the wounds between the US and Europe last night by saying that the Prime Minister had won nothing for supporting the war against Iraq.
As Mr Blair used a keynote speech to present Britain as a “bridge across the Atlantic”, President Chirac doubted whether anyone could play the “honest broker”. Speaking before he visits London on Thursday, he said that it was not in the nature of this Administration to return favours...
M Chirac, speaking to British journalists, including The Times, soon after General Powell’s announcement, revealed that he had urged Mr Blair to demand the relaunch of the Middle East peace process in return for backing the war.
“Well, Britain gave its support but I did not see anything in return. I’m not sure it is in the nature of our American friends at the moment to return favours systematically.”
In other remarks that will sting the Bush Administration, he again outlined his vision of a “multipolar” world in which a united Europe would be equal with the US, and mocked Donald Rumsfeld, the US Defence Secretary, for his division of Europe into old and new.
M Chirac said that there would be no division between Britain and France.
“It is like that nice guy in America — what’s his name again? — who spoke about ‘old Europe’. It has no sense. It’s a lack of culture to imagine that. Imagining that there can be division between the British and French vision of Europe is as absurd as imagining that we are building Europe against the United States.”
The comments underline the scale of the task facing Mr Blair as he tries to be a bridge between Europe and America, a job to which he devoted last night’s foreign policy speech at Guildhall in London.
I think the British people are smart enough to realize that they are better off taking America's side than France's. Besides, who really gives a shit what Chirac thinks? France and the EU will never be a counterbalance to the United States, especially when their economies are socialized and their militaries are a joke.
Chirac is a criminal, and he has a lot of balls talking about ho and who isn't an "honest broker." I've said it before and I'll say it again. When the smoke clears, Bush, Blair and Howard will still be around, and Chirac and Schroeder will be gone.
Sunday, November 14, 2004
It's about time
CIA plans to purge its agency - Sources say White House has ordered new chief to eliminate officers who were disloyal to Bush
WASHINGTON -- The White House has ordered the new CIA director, Porter Goss, to purge the agency of officers believed to have been disloyal to President George W. Bush or of leaking damaging information to the media about the conduct of the Iraq war and the hunt for Osama bin Laden, according to knowledgeable sources.
"The agency is being purged on instructions from the White House," said a former senior CIA official who maintains close ties to both the agency and to the White House. "Goss was given instructions ... to get rid of those soft leakers and liberal Democrats. The CIA is looked on by the White House as a hotbed of liberals and people who have been obstructing the president's agenda."
I only wish they would go over to the State Department and do the same exact thing. There is one thing I will never understand. Wasn't it the liberal Democrats (i.e. the Church Commission, Clinton, Reno, Gorelick, Kerry, etc.) who have spent the last 30 years trying to tear down the CIA? Yet, the CIA is full of liberal Democrat scum. And, why would they support Kerry when Kerry would have loved to make the CIA the functional equivalent of the French army?
The President of the United States cannot ger information from the CIA and then wonder if they are trying to undermine him or not. This bloodletting needs to happen.
WASHINGTON -- The White House has ordered the new CIA director, Porter Goss, to purge the agency of officers believed to have been disloyal to President George W. Bush or of leaking damaging information to the media about the conduct of the Iraq war and the hunt for Osama bin Laden, according to knowledgeable sources.
"The agency is being purged on instructions from the White House," said a former senior CIA official who maintains close ties to both the agency and to the White House. "Goss was given instructions ... to get rid of those soft leakers and liberal Democrats. The CIA is looked on by the White House as a hotbed of liberals and people who have been obstructing the president's agenda."
I only wish they would go over to the State Department and do the same exact thing. There is one thing I will never understand. Wasn't it the liberal Democrats (i.e. the Church Commission, Clinton, Reno, Gorelick, Kerry, etc.) who have spent the last 30 years trying to tear down the CIA? Yet, the CIA is full of liberal Democrat scum. And, why would they support Kerry when Kerry would have loved to make the CIA the functional equivalent of the French army?
The President of the United States cannot ger information from the CIA and then wonder if they are trying to undermine him or not. This bloodletting needs to happen.
Gee, I wonder what changed their minds?
If I were a New York Times reporter, I'd be totally dumbfounded at why this happened:
Iran Agrees to Suspend Uranium Enrichment
VIENNA, Austria - Iran notified the U.N. nuclear watchdog in writing Sunday that it would suspend uranium enrichment and related activities to dispel suspicions that it was trying to build nuclear arms.
Why his happened is simple: Bush has said on several occasions, "Iran will not have nuclear weapons." Iran knows Bush means business. Bush was re-elected.
Of course, we'll hear all about how "EU diplomacy" caused Iran to see the error of their ways.
Iran Agrees to Suspend Uranium Enrichment
VIENNA, Austria - Iran notified the U.N. nuclear watchdog in writing Sunday that it would suspend uranium enrichment and related activities to dispel suspicions that it was trying to build nuclear arms.
Why his happened is simple: Bush has said on several occasions, "Iran will not have nuclear weapons." Iran knows Bush means business. Bush was re-elected.
Of course, we'll hear all about how "EU diplomacy" caused Iran to see the error of their ways.
This made my day
The last paragraph of this story is great:
The soldiers shared laughs during the more surreal moments, such as when a psychological-operations truck rolled through the city blaring the theme song to the movie "Team America: World Police." In the film, Rambo-like puppets hunt terrorists and blow up the Eiffel Tower in the process. There is no need to thank us, the puppets tell outraged Parisians.
How cool is that? Our fine Marines blaring, "America, Fuck Yeah!!" through Fallujah. I wish we had video of that. Where is Michael Moore when you need him?
The soldiers shared laughs during the more surreal moments, such as when a psychological-operations truck rolled through the city blaring the theme song to the movie "Team America: World Police." In the film, Rambo-like puppets hunt terrorists and blow up the Eiffel Tower in the process. There is no need to thank us, the puppets tell outraged Parisians.
How cool is that? Our fine Marines blaring, "America, Fuck Yeah!!" through Fallujah. I wish we had video of that. Where is Michael Moore when you need him?
Saturday, November 13, 2004
What?!!!
Why I am not surprised this guy is German?
Police put an end to bride's 'final fling'
Schweinfurt - German police had to rescue a swiming pool attendant at a hen party after the bride-to-be tried to bully him into having sex.
The woman, in her mid-twenties, trapped the man in a lost property office and tried to undress him, reports Bild newspaper.
The bride, who turned out to be perfectly sober, told police she "wanted to fool around one last time before the wedding".
She had managed to trick the man into taking her into the lost property room during a visit to the pool in Schweinfurt.
"She locked the door, and without further ado, started trying to undress the man," a police spokesperson told Bild newspaper.
A colleague outside heard his shouts for help and called the police.
She was later released and police decided against revealing her identity so as "not to endanger future marital peace".
The guy was shouting because some girl was trying bang him? What a pathetic Kraut!!Unless, she was trying to recreate a German shizer video she saw, this guy should crawl in a hole and never come out. I was once a single guy and had a few woman from time to time get amorous when I was not interested, but I surely never screamed like a bitch about it, for pride reasons if nothing else. I can only imagine the ribbing he his getting from his friends. I would have moved to Tanzania before I faced my friends if I ever pulled something like that.
By the way, I love the term "hen party." Never heard that before.
Police put an end to bride's 'final fling'
Schweinfurt - German police had to rescue a swiming pool attendant at a hen party after the bride-to-be tried to bully him into having sex.
The woman, in her mid-twenties, trapped the man in a lost property office and tried to undress him, reports Bild newspaper.
The bride, who turned out to be perfectly sober, told police she "wanted to fool around one last time before the wedding".
She had managed to trick the man into taking her into the lost property room during a visit to the pool in Schweinfurt.
"She locked the door, and without further ado, started trying to undress the man," a police spokesperson told Bild newspaper.
A colleague outside heard his shouts for help and called the police.
She was later released and police decided against revealing her identity so as "not to endanger future marital peace".
The guy was shouting because some girl was trying bang him? What a pathetic Kraut!!Unless, she was trying to recreate a German shizer video she saw, this guy should crawl in a hole and never come out. I was once a single guy and had a few woman from time to time get amorous when I was not interested, but I surely never screamed like a bitch about it, for pride reasons if nothing else. I can only imagine the ribbing he his getting from his friends. I would have moved to Tanzania before I faced my friends if I ever pulled something like that.
By the way, I love the term "hen party." Never heard that before.
Jamie in Iraq
This is my cousin Jamie in Iraq, holding the bottle of Southern Comfort that I sent him.
Remember, our troops need their booze and smokes, so if you know someone over there, pack up a box full of these important items and ship 'em over.
Remember, our troops need their booze and smokes, so if you know someone over there, pack up a box full of these important items and ship 'em over.
A new blogger deserving support
Stop by "Liberal Nonsense and Ways to See Through It" sometime.
Praise the Lord and pass the Marlboros
I don't know about you, but I thank God that it is Marines like this taking care of business for us, and not some candy-ass metrosexuals.
The joys of capitalism
Who needs socialism, fascism, or communism? Those types of societies would never come up wth anything like this.
O.D.B. D.O.A.
Rapper Ol' Dirty Bastard is dead.
Rapper O.D.B. Collapses, Dies in Studio
NEW YORK - The rap artist O.D.B., whose utterly unique rhymes, wild lifestyle and incessant legal troubles made him one of the most vivid characters in hip-hop, collapsed and died inside a recording studio Saturday. He was 35.
O.D.B. had complained of chest pains before collapsing at the Manhattan studio, and was dead by the time paramedics arrived, said Gabe Tesoriero, a spokesman for O.D.B.'s record label, Roc-a-Fella.
The cause of death was not immediately clear, but O.D.B. had recently finished a prison sentence for drug possession and escaping a rehab clinic. He would have turned 36 on Monday.
I played a lot of his stuff when I was a DJ back in Philly, and played "I Got Your Money" about a million times, and I'll never forget how the crowd would react.
Oh well. At least he didn't get shot. Pray for the dozen or so kids he had.
Rapper O.D.B. Collapses, Dies in Studio
NEW YORK - The rap artist O.D.B., whose utterly unique rhymes, wild lifestyle and incessant legal troubles made him one of the most vivid characters in hip-hop, collapsed and died inside a recording studio Saturday. He was 35.
O.D.B. had complained of chest pains before collapsing at the Manhattan studio, and was dead by the time paramedics arrived, said Gabe Tesoriero, a spokesman for O.D.B.'s record label, Roc-a-Fella.
The cause of death was not immediately clear, but O.D.B. had recently finished a prison sentence for drug possession and escaping a rehab clinic. He would have turned 36 on Monday.
I played a lot of his stuff when I was a DJ back in Philly, and played "I Got Your Money" about a million times, and I'll never forget how the crowd would react.
Oh well. At least he didn't get shot. Pray for the dozen or so kids he had.
Lee is a man of brilliance
I think the world of Lee at Right Thinking From The Left Coast. I had the pleasure of meeting him when I was out in L.A. a few months ago and I found him to be a great guy to hang out with.
Anyway, it may take me a week to stop laughing at this line he wrote today, about gays who supported President Bush:
Which just goes to show you that intelligence and love of vagina do not necessarily go hand-in-hand.
Read the whole thing.
Anyway, it may take me a week to stop laughing at this line he wrote today, about gays who supported President Bush:
Which just goes to show you that intelligence and love of vagina do not necessarily go hand-in-hand.
Read the whole thing.
Friday, November 12, 2004
ACLU scumbags at it yet again
First, take a look at this story:
ACLU honcho sues state police alleging Logan race-profile stop
The head of the American Civil Liberties Union's racial profiling unit filed a lawsuit yesterday, charging state troopers with harassing and detaining him at Logan International Airport for no reason other than his being a black man.
King Downing, 51, is national coordinator of the ACLU's campaign against profiling.
The New York-based lawyer flew into Boston on Oct. 16, 2003 and claims he was threatened with arrest when he initially declined to show ID and his airline ticket as he walked through the airport.
And, here is another account of what happened:
Downing, who is black, said he left the gate area and was making a phone call in the terminal when he was stopped by a state trooper who asked him for identification. He declined, and was told to leave the airport. When he tried to leave, he was stopped again, surrounded by four troopers and told that he was under arrest for failing to produce identification.
Downing, an attorney, said that when he agreed to show his driver's license, the troopers then demanded to see his airline ticket. After police inspected his identification and travel documents, he was allowed to leave and no charges were ever filed against him, he said.
I have a memory like an elephant. When I read this, I could not help but wonder, "Gee, why does this always seem to happen to 'poor' ACLU members?" Take a look at something I wrote on this blog back on April 6th. It seems back then, some other "poor, innocent" ACLU members, by pure happenstance, were victims too. (The news link is no good, but here is the updated version of that story)
This isn't pure chance. This is the ACLU being a bunch of troublemaking jerkoffs, something they excel at. (I won't even get into the poor choice of Boston's Logan Airport after what happened on September 11th.)
I have flown at least 50 round-trips over the last year. Increased security is a fact of life today, and I don't care. My civil rights aren't being violated every time they decide to go through my bag and pull out my underwear and dirty socks. I stand there for 3-4 minutes, wait, and move along. Better we put up with that than have another incident that could have been avoided if the TSA wasn't so concerned about ACLU lawsuits.
This ACLU scumbag was looking for trouble, and he got it. I hope that the Massachussetts State Police fights the ACLU tooth and nail. I have a feeling they won't though, since the ACLU depends on gutless politicians to pay them off to make it go away. And why shouldn't they? It works almost all the time for them.
ACLU honcho sues state police alleging Logan race-profile stop
The head of the American Civil Liberties Union's racial profiling unit filed a lawsuit yesterday, charging state troopers with harassing and detaining him at Logan International Airport for no reason other than his being a black man.
King Downing, 51, is national coordinator of the ACLU's campaign against profiling.
The New York-based lawyer flew into Boston on Oct. 16, 2003 and claims he was threatened with arrest when he initially declined to show ID and his airline ticket as he walked through the airport.
And, here is another account of what happened:
Downing, who is black, said he left the gate area and was making a phone call in the terminal when he was stopped by a state trooper who asked him for identification. He declined, and was told to leave the airport. When he tried to leave, he was stopped again, surrounded by four troopers and told that he was under arrest for failing to produce identification.
Downing, an attorney, said that when he agreed to show his driver's license, the troopers then demanded to see his airline ticket. After police inspected his identification and travel documents, he was allowed to leave and no charges were ever filed against him, he said.
I have a memory like an elephant. When I read this, I could not help but wonder, "Gee, why does this always seem to happen to 'poor' ACLU members?" Take a look at something I wrote on this blog back on April 6th. It seems back then, some other "poor, innocent" ACLU members, by pure happenstance, were victims too. (The news link is no good, but here is the updated version of that story)
This isn't pure chance. This is the ACLU being a bunch of troublemaking jerkoffs, something they excel at. (I won't even get into the poor choice of Boston's Logan Airport after what happened on September 11th.)
I have flown at least 50 round-trips over the last year. Increased security is a fact of life today, and I don't care. My civil rights aren't being violated every time they decide to go through my bag and pull out my underwear and dirty socks. I stand there for 3-4 minutes, wait, and move along. Better we put up with that than have another incident that could have been avoided if the TSA wasn't so concerned about ACLU lawsuits.
This ACLU scumbag was looking for trouble, and he got it. I hope that the Massachussetts State Police fights the ACLU tooth and nail. I have a feeling they won't though, since the ACLU depends on gutless politicians to pay them off to make it go away. And why shouldn't they? It works almost all the time for them.
Edwards was (and is) worthless
Darth Vader was talking about Obi-Wan Kenobi when he said this:
"His failure is now complete."
He may as well have been talking about John Edwards. Not only did Edwards fail to bring his home state to Kerry, he failed in his own county.
"His failure is now complete."
He may as well have been talking about John Edwards. Not only did Edwards fail to bring his home state to Kerry, he failed in his own county.
Thursday, November 11, 2004
It's funny because it's true
F Arafat
I may not have mentioned this before but I am quite happy Arafat has moved on from this Earth. While CNN, BBC, AP, Reuters, and the New York Times mourn his death like he was the male equivalent of Mother Teresa, I prefer to remember Arafat's true legacy.
Yasir Arafat's Timeline of Terror
Also, I am not one bit that President Bush said, "God Bless his Soul." I prefer to judge Bush on how he has treated Arafat. Bush has marginalized, refused to meet with him when they were both at the U.N., and has not let Arafat soil the White House with his stench since he became President.
Maybe Arafat feel as much suffering in hell as he caused on this Earth.
Yasir Arafat's Timeline of Terror
Also, I am not one bit that President Bush said, "God Bless his Soul." I prefer to judge Bush on how he has treated Arafat. Bush has marginalized, refused to meet with him when they were both at the U.N., and has not let Arafat soil the White House with his stench since he became President.
Maybe Arafat feel as much suffering in hell as he caused on this Earth.
Bring it on Slim
This is good news:
Moore to shoot sequel to ‘Fahrenheit 9/11’
LOS ANGELES - Michael Moore plans a follow-up to “Fahrenheit 9/11,” his hit documentary that assails President Bush over the handling of the Sept. 11 attacks and the war on terrorism, according to a Hollywood trade paper.
Moore told Daily Variety that he and Harvey Weinstein, the Miramax boss who produced the film, hope to have “Fahrenheit 9/11 1/2” ready in two to three years.
“Fifty-one percent of the American people lacked information (in this election) and we want to educate and enlighten them,” Moore was quoted in Thursday’s edition of Variety. “They weren’t told the truth. We’re communicators and it’s up to us to start doing it now.”
(I think he meant 52%) I hope he follows through with this. After all, just look at how effective the original was.
Moore to shoot sequel to ‘Fahrenheit 9/11’
LOS ANGELES - Michael Moore plans a follow-up to “Fahrenheit 9/11,” his hit documentary that assails President Bush over the handling of the Sept. 11 attacks and the war on terrorism, according to a Hollywood trade paper.
Moore told Daily Variety that he and Harvey Weinstein, the Miramax boss who produced the film, hope to have “Fahrenheit 9/11 1/2” ready in two to three years.
“Fifty-one percent of the American people lacked information (in this election) and we want to educate and enlighten them,” Moore was quoted in Thursday’s edition of Variety. “They weren’t told the truth. We’re communicators and it’s up to us to start doing it now.”
(I think he meant 52%) I hope he follows through with this. After all, just look at how effective the original was.
"He'll call you back on the 12th of never"
I love this story:
Spanish PM Phones, Bush Doesn't Pick Up
WASHINGTON — The White House has put out word daily of calls flooding in from around the world to congratulate President Bush on his re-election victory. But somehow, Spanish Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero just hasn't been able to get his call past the switchboard.
Zapatero phoned Bush not long after his Nov. 2 win, but wasn't put through to the president. Now, more than a week after the voting, the two leaders still have not hooked up.
The White House explanation signaled something of a cold shoulder toward the Spanish leader, who angered the administration by withdrawing troops from Iraq just after taking office in April.
"I think that may be the case, that he has tried to reach out," Bush press secretary Scott McClellan said Wednesday. "Calls are scheduled at times that are mutually convenient. Some calls are able to be scheduled quicker than others."
What did this guy expect? He bashed Bush and the Iraq war and, with the help of a few bombs, got elected. Socialists and Democrats (same thing actually) think they can just say and do what they want without consequence. Now, Zapatero can go back to being bitch-slapped by his faux ally, Jacques Chirac.
Spanish PM Phones, Bush Doesn't Pick Up
WASHINGTON — The White House has put out word daily of calls flooding in from around the world to congratulate President Bush on his re-election victory. But somehow, Spanish Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero just hasn't been able to get his call past the switchboard.
Zapatero phoned Bush not long after his Nov. 2 win, but wasn't put through to the president. Now, more than a week after the voting, the two leaders still have not hooked up.
The White House explanation signaled something of a cold shoulder toward the Spanish leader, who angered the administration by withdrawing troops from Iraq just after taking office in April.
"I think that may be the case, that he has tried to reach out," Bush press secretary Scott McClellan said Wednesday. "Calls are scheduled at times that are mutually convenient. Some calls are able to be scheduled quicker than others."
What did this guy expect? He bashed Bush and the Iraq war and, with the help of a few bombs, got elected. Socialists and Democrats (same thing actually) think they can just say and do what they want without consequence. Now, Zapatero can go back to being bitch-slapped by his faux ally, Jacques Chirac.
Arafat is officially dead
Passing of Arafat Draws Mixed Reactions
Count me on the side of those who are glad that murderous scumbag is dead.
Count me on the side of those who are glad that murderous scumbag is dead.
Veteran's Day
It isn't the whiny liberal who cries about the First Amendment that brings us our freedom. It is the American soldier. Thank you to all the soldiers who have provided me with the freedom to live this life of tomfoolery and skylarking.
Wednesday, November 10, 2004
Today's comedy link
Democrats Vow to Hold Bush Accountable
Congressional Democrats returned to Washington in a defiant mood yesterday, making no apologies for the campaign in which they lost congressional seats and the presidential race and vowing to hold President Bush accountable for his handling of the deficit, the Iraq war and other issues.
It's about damn time. President Bush has spent 4 years doing what he wants, when he wants, without so much as a peep from the Democrats.
Congressional Democrats returned to Washington in a defiant mood yesterday, making no apologies for the campaign in which they lost congressional seats and the presidential race and vowing to hold President Bush accountable for his handling of the deficit, the Iraq war and other issues.
It's about damn time. President Bush has spent 4 years doing what he wants, when he wants, without so much as a peep from the Democrats.
Tuesday, November 09, 2004
MC Hammer's comeback
Either this is an AP photo of the soon-to-be-dead scum in Fallujah, or MC Hammer is making a new video. Check out the guy on the left:
Looks like Arafat is indeed dead
PA said set to announce Arafat's death
Former Palestinian prime minister and PLO Secretary General Mahmoud Abbas, the most senior Palestinian politician after Yasser Arafat, may issue a formal announcement Wednesday morning of the death of the Palestinian leader, Palestinian sources said.
The announcement may come in the course of a meeting of the Palestine Liberation Organization Executive Committee, at approximately 10 A.M.. Israel Radio reported Wednesday.
According to an Israeli Itim news service report quoting senior Palestinian officials, Arafat was already dead as of Tuesday night, but the Palestinian leadership would make the official announcement only after Abbas returned to Ramallah from Paris, via Amman, overnight.
The tear-eyed tributes in the New York Times and on the Ap wire should make for fun reading.
Former Palestinian prime minister and PLO Secretary General Mahmoud Abbas, the most senior Palestinian politician after Yasser Arafat, may issue a formal announcement Wednesday morning of the death of the Palestinian leader, Palestinian sources said.
The announcement may come in the course of a meeting of the Palestine Liberation Organization Executive Committee, at approximately 10 A.M.. Israel Radio reported Wednesday.
According to an Israeli Itim news service report quoting senior Palestinian officials, Arafat was already dead as of Tuesday night, but the Palestinian leadership would make the official announcement only after Abbas returned to Ramallah from Paris, via Amman, overnight.
The tear-eyed tributes in the New York Times and on the Ap wire should make for fun reading.
Liberals talking about secession
I could not help but laugh at this:
Blue states buzz over secession
Secession, which didn't work very well when it was tried once before, is suddenly red hot in the blue states. In certain precincts, anyway.
One popular map circulating on the Internet shows the 19 blue states won by Sen. John Kerry — Washington, Oregon, California, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Illinois, Maryland and the Northeastern states — conjoined with Canada to form the "United States of Canada." The 31 red states carried by Mr. Bush are depicted as a separate nation dubbed "Jesusland."
[Scroll down to see the map the writer is talking about. It is posted below]
The idea isn't just a joke; one top Democrat says, "The segment of the country that pays for the federal government is now being governed by the people who don't pay for the federal government."
"Some would say, 'Oh, poor Alabama. It's cut off from the wealth infusion that it gets from New York and California,' " said Lawrence O'Donnell, a veteran Democratic insider and now senior political analyst at MSNBC. "But the more this political condition goes on at the presidential level of the red and blue states, the more you're testing the inclination of the blue states to say, 'So what?' "
Mr. O'Donnell raised the subject of secession on "The McLaughlin Group" during the weekend. "Ninety percent of the red states are welfare-client states of the federal government," said Mr. O'Donnell, who was an aide to Sen. Daniel Patrick Moynihan, New York Democrat.
Look, we all know that isn't realistic. However, if the liberals are serious about wanting to do something, why not organze a movement to move and flood a few states, preferably for them, red ones? They can do that, support more federalism, and live under all the liberal utopian laws they want. Unfettered access to abortion, gay marriage, high taxes, you name it. They can have all they want. How easy it would be for them to take over, say, Utah, Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, and New Mexico? Pretty damn easy.
Somehow, though, I don't think they are too anxious to give up their beach houses.
Blue states buzz over secession
Secession, which didn't work very well when it was tried once before, is suddenly red hot in the blue states. In certain precincts, anyway.
One popular map circulating on the Internet shows the 19 blue states won by Sen. John Kerry — Washington, Oregon, California, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Illinois, Maryland and the Northeastern states — conjoined with Canada to form the "United States of Canada." The 31 red states carried by Mr. Bush are depicted as a separate nation dubbed "Jesusland."
[Scroll down to see the map the writer is talking about. It is posted below]
The idea isn't just a joke; one top Democrat says, "The segment of the country that pays for the federal government is now being governed by the people who don't pay for the federal government."
"Some would say, 'Oh, poor Alabama. It's cut off from the wealth infusion that it gets from New York and California,' " said Lawrence O'Donnell, a veteran Democratic insider and now senior political analyst at MSNBC. "But the more this political condition goes on at the presidential level of the red and blue states, the more you're testing the inclination of the blue states to say, 'So what?' "
Mr. O'Donnell raised the subject of secession on "The McLaughlin Group" during the weekend. "Ninety percent of the red states are welfare-client states of the federal government," said Mr. O'Donnell, who was an aide to Sen. Daniel Patrick Moynihan, New York Democrat.
Look, we all know that isn't realistic. However, if the liberals are serious about wanting to do something, why not organze a movement to move and flood a few states, preferably for them, red ones? They can do that, support more federalism, and live under all the liberal utopian laws they want. Unfettered access to abortion, gay marriage, high taxes, you name it. They can have all they want. How easy it would be for them to take over, say, Utah, Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, and New Mexico? Pretty damn easy.
Somehow, though, I don't think they are too anxious to give up their beach houses.
Thank you John Ashcroft
Well, it's official. Ashcroft has resigned as Attorney General.
Ashcroft, Evans Resign From Bush Cabinet
Let no one kid you. Mr. Ashcroft was hated long before he became Attorney General. His being in that position only gave his critics new and fresh ammo. Remember his confirmation hearing, how contentious it was? It was all about Ashcroft's opposition to abortion. And, remember when the liberals mocked Ashcroft for covering Lady Justice?
Ashcroft was hated by the liberals for his Christianity. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise. For all the hyperb
Ashcroft, Evans Resign From Bush Cabinet
Let no one kid you. Mr. Ashcroft was hated long before he became Attorney General. His being in that position only gave his critics new and fresh ammo. Remember his confirmation hearing, how contentious it was? It was all about Ashcroft's opposition to abortion. And, remember when the liberals mocked Ashcroft for covering Lady Justice?
Ashcroft was hated by the liberals for his Christianity. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise. For all the hyperb