Thursday, March 31, 2005
Laser surgery on my face – ouch
I had a small surgical procedure done today to alleviate the affects of Agent Orange when I served in Honduras during the Gulf War.
Ok, now that you are done going 1) Huh? 2) how dare he make fun of Agent Orange, ‘Nam, DESERT STORM, or doctors, ….
I had a few growths removed which have developed due to my roscea. Very straight forward, simple procedure with the laser. To maintain some symmetry I had three zapped on each side. Nothing on the front side, as I need to have passport pictures taken next week (way to plan Bedrock Guy).
The doctor expressed great satisfaction with his work and said that over time I would be very happy with results. This will be the first of several tractor beam/laser/phaser/taser procedures over the next several months.
So…how do I look?
Laser surgery: I was against it before I was for it.
Ok, now that you are done going 1) Huh? 2) how dare he make fun of Agent Orange, ‘Nam, DESERT STORM, or doctors, ….
I had a few growths removed which have developed due to my roscea. Very straight forward, simple procedure with the laser. To maintain some symmetry I had three zapped on each side. Nothing on the front side, as I need to have passport pictures taken next week (way to plan Bedrock Guy).
The doctor expressed great satisfaction with his work and said that over time I would be very happy with results. This will be the first of several tractor beam/laser/phaser/taser procedures over the next several months.
So…how do I look?
Laser surgery: I was against it before I was for it.
Did he really make Terri's parents (or brother and sister) leave the room?
Edited on 2 April.
Whatever sympathy I had for Michael Schiavo evaporated when I read this:
“The feud between the parents, Bob and Mary Schindler, and their son-in-law continued even after her death: The Schindlers' spiritual advisers said the couple had been at their daughter's bedside minutes before the end came, but were not there at the moment of her death because Michael Schiavo did not want them in the room.”
What a heartless, cruel, and just plain mean gesture, regardless of the animosity that has grown between him and Terri’s parents.
Did he use his police buddies to make her parents leave?
Jackson’s appearance for the cameras so angered me that I did blog yesterday about her agony and today I regret that I did.
Her parents deserved better at this critical, life ending moment. This was a chance few of us will ever have, to be with those we love when they die, or we die. How could he deny that to her parents, regardless of what has happened?
Michael Schiavo failed to impress me as a decent man with the anger and the ruthlessness he allegedly displayed with this one callous act.
May she rest in peace.
Whatever sympathy I had for Michael Schiavo evaporated when I read this:
“The feud between the parents, Bob and Mary Schindler, and their son-in-law continued even after her death: The Schindlers' spiritual advisers said the couple had been at their daughter's bedside minutes before the end came, but were not there at the moment of her death because Michael Schiavo did not want them in the room.”
What a heartless, cruel, and just plain mean gesture, regardless of the animosity that has grown between him and Terri’s parents.
Did he use his police buddies to make her parents leave?
Note: Subsequent reports indicate that it was Terri's brother and sister who were allegedly asked to leave by Michael Schiavo or his representatives. Regardless of who asked them to leave, it's still a sad tale, and heartless.
My comments about the mentality of those who would ask family members to leave stands.
I’ve wanted to comment on this case, but just could not sit down and write about it. To do so, with the chaos surrounding this young woman’s life, just seemed inappropriate.Jackson’s appearance for the cameras so angered me that I did blog yesterday about her agony and today I regret that I did.
Her parents deserved better at this critical, life ending moment. This was a chance few of us will ever have, to be with those we love when they die, or we die. How could he deny that to her parents, regardless of what has happened?
Michael Schiavo failed to impress me as a decent man with the anger and the ruthlessness he allegedly displayed with this one callous act.
May she rest in peace.
This fascination with communism continues – let’s stop it
Why is communism bad? Hmmmh. Maybe it’s time to take the gloves off in discussions such as this. Subtle hints like this, this, and this are apparently not working.
Perhaps its time to start comparing communism, its prime role models and historical figures, and fellow travelers to the murderous Nazis. Everybody hates Nazis, right?
Well, in terms of their willingness to destroy liberty and human rights, and in terms of their willingness to kill millions of people, communists and Nazis don’t differ very much.
Yes, yes, yes, I know the intellectual foundations of both are different. Yes, yes, yes, I know that socialism isn’t like Nazism.
But…let’s look at the results of both communism and Nazism, in terms of nations and economies destroyed, and more importantly, in terms of people killed.
We need to start calling communist supporters and their fellow travelers what they are: murderers and supporters of terror and murder.
Che Guevara ain’t no hero. Quit buying his T-shirt.
Perhaps its time to start comparing communism, its prime role models and historical figures, and fellow travelers to the murderous Nazis. Everybody hates Nazis, right?
Well, in terms of their willingness to destroy liberty and human rights, and in terms of their willingness to kill millions of people, communists and Nazis don’t differ very much.
Yes, yes, yes, I know the intellectual foundations of both are different. Yes, yes, yes, I know that socialism isn’t like Nazism.
But…let’s look at the results of both communism and Nazism, in terms of nations and economies destroyed, and more importantly, in terms of people killed.
We need to start calling communist supporters and their fellow travelers what they are: murderers and supporters of terror and murder.
Che Guevara ain’t no hero. Quit buying his T-shirt.
Let’s get serious about ending our excessive dependence on foreign oil
As the Post says, an unlikely coalition is forming to lobby Congress.
Possible new converts to this philosophy of smaller cars and hybrid vehicles may soon include Favorite Daughter, who is now experiencing the fun of filling the tank on Favorite Volvo.
Note to Favorite Daughter: Don’t forget to have the taillight checked on Friday – and take that fuzzy dice off the mirror!
Possible new converts to this philosophy of smaller cars and hybrid vehicles may soon include Favorite Daughter, who is now experiencing the fun of filling the tank on Favorite Volvo.
Note to Favorite Daughter: Don’t forget to have the taillight checked on Friday – and take that fuzzy dice off the mirror!
This just in - Colleges are full of left wing professors
Wow, how did I miss that? Favorite Daughter, is this true? Please comment based on your recent experiences.
Wednesday, March 30, 2005
The Republicans need to move their initial major primary from South Carolina
This idea seems sound in its concept to outflank the right wing. After watching the circus in Florida this past week, it’s obvious to me that the GOP must do something to shore up its moderate base and attract more moderates.
I guarantee the left wing Democrats will be showing footage of the Republican right wing during the ’06 campaign. Time to start working to offset those visuals.
I guarantee the left wing Democrats will be showing footage of the Republican right wing during the ’06 campaign. Time to start working to offset those visuals.
The Dixie Chicks are favoring the dark side in this case
So, if the Dixie Chicks are for it, I probably should be against it. Yes, I have not forgotten their slander of America while it was at war two years ago. Nor should you.
Then, yes, I actually read the article about the case before the Supreme Court. I’m less than sympathetic from the start for an industry which I believe overcharges Americans for its products. I fully understand the value of copyrights and patents concerning intellectual property and new ideas.
However, I also understand what seems to be some fairly logical questions on the court concerning why we should favor new technologies. Note the Sony Betamax precedent.
I hope the Supreme Court rules in favor of the technology companies here and against the Dixie Chicks and their recording company allies. Suppression of new technological development does not bode well for the future.
Then, yes, I actually read the article about the case before the Supreme Court. I’m less than sympathetic from the start for an industry which I believe overcharges Americans for its products. I fully understand the value of copyrights and patents concerning intellectual property and new ideas.
However, I also understand what seems to be some fairly logical questions on the court concerning why we should favor new technologies. Note the Sony Betamax precedent.
I hope the Supreme Court rules in favor of the technology companies here and against the Dixie Chicks and their recording company allies. Suppression of new technological development does not bode well for the future.
If this guy shows up, pull the plug
It’s over and he’s not there for you as a person when he arrives at the scene. It's all about him.
I’ve told my Favorite Wife many times, if I’m in trouble and Jackson shows up, we are not interested.
I’ve told my Favorite Wife many times, if I’m in trouble and Jackson shows up, we are not interested.
A fascinating example of left wing multicultural hypocrisy
This associate professor received a rather interesting email from a female student.
The associate professor, in turn, sent it to his dean, for review and action as required.
I love the manner in which the associate professor wants the university to use its normal left wing, police state methods to investigate this email as the university would had the associate professor sent an email like this to a female instructor or student.
I think the associate professor has this university on the ropes of hypocrisy with this one.
If Favorite Daughter ever wrote such an illiterate, left wing note such as shown at the link, I'd be very disappointed. Then again, I don't think I have to worry about her appearing in shows like the one in which this left wing female rabble appeared (I least I don't think so.)
The associate professor, in turn, sent it to his dean, for review and action as required.
I love the manner in which the associate professor wants the university to use its normal left wing, police state methods to investigate this email as the university would had the associate professor sent an email like this to a female instructor or student.
I think the associate professor has this university on the ropes of hypocrisy with this one.
If Favorite Daughter ever wrote such an illiterate, left wing note such as shown at the link, I'd be very disappointed. Then again, I don't think I have to worry about her appearing in shows like the one in which this left wing female rabble appeared (I least I don't think so.)
If that's what it takes to fix Venezuela, so be it
Stage being set for a civil war in Venezuela?
This country slowly drifts more leftward every day. Chavez is an enemy of the U.S. and liberal democracy. The U.S. should encourage a variety of options designed to oust Chavez and the scum who support his rule.
And while we are at it, this adminstration needs to pay more attention to Latin America.
This country slowly drifts more leftward every day. Chavez is an enemy of the U.S. and liberal democracy. The U.S. should encourage a variety of options designed to oust Chavez and the scum who support his rule.
And while we are at it, this adminstration needs to pay more attention to Latin America.
Sunday, March 27, 2005
The Red Chinese are not very happy with this
Which of course means protesting their thuggish approach to Taiwan is the right course of action.
Pro-democracy rallies in Taiwan. Imagine that. A group of people who have never lived under Red Chinese tyranny and oppression don’t want to do so in the future.
The democratic West needs to sort out possible courses of action to take when the Red Chinese invade Taiwan. Because they will.
The only questions are – what will we do to prevent it, and when it occurs, to counter it?
(Word of advice to whoever is President – don’t count on the EU for military assistance.)
Pro-democracy rallies in Taiwan. Imagine that. A group of people who have never lived under Red Chinese tyranny and oppression don’t want to do so in the future.
The democratic West needs to sort out possible courses of action to take when the Red Chinese invade Taiwan. Because they will.
The only questions are – what will we do to prevent it, and when it occurs, to counter it?
(Word of advice to whoever is President – don’t count on the EU for military assistance.)
One can only hope
Mr. Annan's feeling a bit depressed lately about the UN's bad press.
Let’s just summarize some current problems in the UN and its leadership:
- Sex scandal in Africa involving UN Troops and children (not the first sex scandal with UN troops and leaders).
- Sexual Harassment by senior UN leaders at the headquarters in New York.
- Iraqi oil-for-food scandals (with Annan’s son receiving payments from companies profiting from that program).
- Paying legal fees for a senior UN official from the oil-for-food funds.
This organization has little if any credibility with half of America, the Iraqi people, and other parts of the world. Its Blue Helmets no longer generate trust and hope when they arrive.
I think I said it best in this post on 6 December 2004. Hey Hey, Ho Ho, Kofi Annan’s got to go.
Let’s just summarize some current problems in the UN and its leadership:
- Sex scandal in Africa involving UN Troops and children (not the first sex scandal with UN troops and leaders).
- Sexual Harassment by senior UN leaders at the headquarters in New York.
- Iraqi oil-for-food scandals (with Annan’s son receiving payments from companies profiting from that program).
- Paying legal fees for a senior UN official from the oil-for-food funds.
This organization has little if any credibility with half of America, the Iraqi people, and other parts of the world. Its Blue Helmets no longer generate trust and hope when they arrive.
I think I said it best in this post on 6 December 2004. Hey Hey, Ho Ho, Kofi Annan’s got to go.
New Poll shows 24% of Germans in western Germany want the Wall back
This polling data, from a sample of 2,000 people, illustrates the ongoing bitterness still extant, 15 years after the Wall came down.
I guess they have a red state-blue state situation.
“The Berlin Wall was breached on Nov. 9, 1989, paving the way for the unification of Communist East Germany with the West on Oct. 3, 1990. But billions of euros (dollars) spent rebuilding the east have failed to prop up the depressed region, which is plagued by high unemployment and a shrinking population.
The poll also found that 47 percent of the easterners agree with the statement that the West "acquired the east like a colony," while 58 percent of the westerners back the statement that "easterners tend to wallow in self-pity."”
Many of the Germans I know have expressed the same sentiments about the lack of progress in the former East Germany. One can attest to the infrastructure changes in the east, as seen by the number of cranes, if nothing else, in any large town or city.
Of great concern right now is the growing attraction of right wing, neo-Nazi parties as they gain more of the vote in local and state elections in the eastern German communities.
I guess they have a red state-blue state situation.
“The Berlin Wall was breached on Nov. 9, 1989, paving the way for the unification of Communist East Germany with the West on Oct. 3, 1990. But billions of euros (dollars) spent rebuilding the east have failed to prop up the depressed region, which is plagued by high unemployment and a shrinking population.
The poll also found that 47 percent of the easterners agree with the statement that the West "acquired the east like a colony," while 58 percent of the westerners back the statement that "easterners tend to wallow in self-pity."”
Many of the Germans I know have expressed the same sentiments about the lack of progress in the former East Germany. One can attest to the infrastructure changes in the east, as seen by the number of cranes, if nothing else, in any large town or city.
Of great concern right now is the growing attraction of right wing, neo-Nazi parties as they gain more of the vote in local and state elections in the eastern German communities.
It’s time to address the "Syria" problem
How much longer must the world tolerate a two-bit, thug nation like Syria? I emphasize two-bit.
Heck, now even the UN is saying bad things about them. When that happens, you must really require regime change.
We can do much to effect regime change without ground troops. Heck, I’ll bet even the French will help us, since Syria has no oil to speak of worthy of French business interests.
Heck, now even the UN is saying bad things about them. When that happens, you must really require regime change.
We can do much to effect regime change without ground troops. Heck, I’ll bet even the French will help us, since Syria has no oil to speak of worthy of French business interests.
Saturday, March 26, 2005
Rainy Saturday in Germany
Hope everyone is enjoying the Easter weekend. The weather started out lovely this morning, and after a great run, Favorite Wife and I went across the river to a little cafe for breakfast.
On the way home, picked up my suit from the cleaners (12 Euros - ouch) but, they removed the oil spots from my less than successful attempts to eat salad a few weeks ago, so it was worth every cent.
I have learned, I believe, how to post pictures on my blog. Also, I reinstalled Site Meter to track my traffic. When I changed the template a few weeks ago, the icon disappeared. Site Meter did not track any traffic, which I know I was getting based on email comments. Anyway, it is supposedly functional again.
Have a great Easter.
On the way home, picked up my suit from the cleaners (12 Euros - ouch) but, they removed the oil spots from my less than successful attempts to eat salad a few weeks ago, so it was worth every cent.
I have learned, I believe, how to post pictures on my blog. Also, I reinstalled Site Meter to track my traffic. When I changed the template a few weeks ago, the icon disappeared. Site Meter did not track any traffic, which I know I was getting based on email comments. Anyway, it is supposedly functional again.
Have a great Easter.
Friday, March 25, 2005
Sudan – why is the West not doing anything more?
Ten or twelve years ago, I probably would have felt that this wasn't our problem.
Now, I realize that we can no longer depend on Europe to do anything of any moral worth or value. If something needs to be done, it must be done by the U.S., England, and Australia, with a rotating group of other nations.
One of the authors of this article is an actor. Now, I'm not usually going to agree with anything said by a Hollywood type, but this time, the points need to be made.
Why aren't we doing more to stop this horrendous slaughter?
Now, I realize that we can no longer depend on Europe to do anything of any moral worth or value. If something needs to be done, it must be done by the U.S., England, and Australia, with a rotating group of other nations.
One of the authors of this article is an actor. Now, I'm not usually going to agree with anything said by a Hollywood type, but this time, the points need to be made.
Why aren't we doing more to stop this horrendous slaughter?
A short primer on the ballplayer, Bobby Bonds
He was a punk when he played for Pittsburg and choked in every playoff series.
Some things never change.
In the past few months, he has played the “it’s the media’s fault” card, the race card, and the family card. He dragged his child in front of the cameras. The man has no shame.
If any academic ever needs a superb example of a grown man failing to accept personal responsibility for a problem, examine the life of Bobby Bonds.
Guys like Bonds, and the steroid family of players, are yet one more reason I hardly follow baseball any more.
Hey, Bud Selig, are you listening? When are you going to take action? You are looking at the equivalent of the 1919 Black Sox. What will it take for you to challenge the players and their agents in the court of public opinion?
Some things never change.
In the past few months, he has played the “it’s the media’s fault” card, the race card, and the family card. He dragged his child in front of the cameras. The man has no shame.
If any academic ever needs a superb example of a grown man failing to accept personal responsibility for a problem, examine the life of Bobby Bonds.
Guys like Bonds, and the steroid family of players, are yet one more reason I hardly follow baseball any more.
Hey, Bud Selig, are you listening? When are you going to take action? You are looking at the equivalent of the 1919 Black Sox. What will it take for you to challenge the players and their agents in the court of public opinion?
No German media bias and anti-Americanism here, is there?
Nothing to see, just another day in the left wing, anti-American German media. Keep moving please.
Well, just in case you want to see how the German media portrays Americans, take a look.
P.S. I'm not done with this vicious stereotyping, but I've a lot of work to do this weekend. More to follow on this left wing slam of America.
Well, just in case you want to see how the German media portrays Americans, take a look.
P.S. I'm not done with this vicious stereotyping, but I've a lot of work to do this weekend. More to follow on this left wing slam of America.
Your Democratic congressperson at work – McKinney chapter
Cynthia McKinney (D – Georgia). Left winger and nuts the first time she served, and remaining consistently so now that the voters of her district have again chosen her to represent their very sincere concerns about America.
When I see people like McKinney, I wonder what happened to them in their lives to generate so much hate for America. Amazing that she is a Congresswoman. Then again, she is a Democrat.
Yes, I know this sounds a bit harsh. But, tell you what. Track her public comments for about six months and then tell me I'm too harsh. You won't feel that way if you read what she says in public. Can you imagine what she must say in private?
When I see people like McKinney, I wonder what happened to them in their lives to generate so much hate for America. Amazing that she is a Congresswoman. Then again, she is a Democrat.
Yes, I know this sounds a bit harsh. But, tell you what. Track her public comments for about six months and then tell me I'm too harsh. You won't feel that way if you read what she says in public. Can you imagine what she must say in private?
Another reason not to sell arms to Red China
Keep all this in mind when the Europeans propose it again. And they will. Too many Euros in selling weapons to the Red Chinese.
If you had the unemployment rates that these European nations do, you’d look for any catalyst to jumpstart your economy.
After all, the odds that these weapons would ever be used against Europeans – slim to none.
Because, as you know, that would mean the Europeans would have to oppose anything the Red Chinese did in Asia, which they NEVER will militarily.
If you had the unemployment rates that these European nations do, you’d look for any catalyst to jumpstart your economy.
After all, the odds that these weapons would ever be used against Europeans – slim to none.
Because, as you know, that would mean the Europeans would have to oppose anything the Red Chinese did in Asia, which they NEVER will militarily.
Thursday, March 24, 2005
In Commemoration of Major Arthur Nicholson, United States Army, 1947-1985
On Sunday, 24 March 1985, MAJ Arthur Nicholson, a member of the U.S. Military Liaison Mission, drove through the East German countryside performing his normal duties: observing Soviet Army activity.
While he was doing so, a Soviet soldier shot Major Nicholson. The Soviets, in their usual unthinking and incomprehensible fashion, then denied and delayed medical aide to this wounded soldier. He died as a result of his wounds within one hour at the site of the attack.
Today, in Berlin, his life and service to the free world were honored in a ceremony conducted by the Allied Museum-Berlin.
On Saturday, his family and friends will conduct a service at his grave in Arlington National Cemetery.
On that day twenty years ago, I was just starting my second year as an M1 tank company commander in West Germany. We were quickly informed about the murder of Major Nicholson. Aside from the usual contempt which we expressed for the scum who would shot an unarmed soldier, and in general for anything Soviet, we were reminded once again that, just a short distance away across the wire in the east, we faced an enemy capable of great cruelty and one with contempt for liberty and human rights.
Not without reason did our Brigade Commander used to yell, "On to Vladivostok." The Soviet Empire deserved to have the United States for an enemy.
History will not be kind to the Soviet empire nor its leaders and supporters.
While he was doing so, a Soviet soldier shot Major Nicholson. The Soviets, in their usual unthinking and incomprehensible fashion, then denied and delayed medical aide to this wounded soldier. He died as a result of his wounds within one hour at the site of the attack.
Today, in Berlin, his life and service to the free world were honored in a ceremony conducted by the Allied Museum-Berlin.
On Saturday, his family and friends will conduct a service at his grave in Arlington National Cemetery.
On that day twenty years ago, I was just starting my second year as an M1 tank company commander in West Germany. We were quickly informed about the murder of Major Nicholson. Aside from the usual contempt which we expressed for the scum who would shot an unarmed soldier, and in general for anything Soviet, we were reminded once again that, just a short distance away across the wire in the east, we faced an enemy capable of great cruelty and one with contempt for liberty and human rights.
Not without reason did our Brigade Commander used to yell, "On to Vladivostok." The Soviet Empire deserved to have the United States for an enemy.
History will not be kind to the Soviet empire nor its leaders and supporters.
More left wing intolerance
Day by Day provides yet another example of this left wing behavior.
Please remember this the next time someone tells you that liberal means tolerant.
Left wingers are not liberal; nor are they tolerant. That’s why I call them left wingers.
They’ve given the word “liberal” a bad name.
Please remember this the next time someone tells you that liberal means tolerant.
Left wingers are not liberal; nor are they tolerant. That’s why I call them left wingers.
They’ve given the word “liberal” a bad name.
The dumbest news article headline – ever
From the Washington Post today.
“Shooter Described As Deeply Disturbed”
No kidding. Wow, would I need to go to journalism and editing school to be able to write just like you?
No kidding he was disturbed. He killed how many people?
What was your first clue?
I could write a few more comments to highlight the absolute sheer stupidity of that Post headline, but…ah…never mind.
“Shooter Described As Deeply Disturbed”
No kidding. Wow, would I need to go to journalism and editing school to be able to write just like you?
No kidding he was disturbed. He killed how many people?
What was your first clue?
I could write a few more comments to highlight the absolute sheer stupidity of that Post headline, but…ah…never mind.
The President is wrong on border observers
Mr. President,
El Presidente Fox of Mexico should not be allowed to influence or dictate American immigration policy. Your comments about border observers being vigilantes are just flat wrong and fail to address the main issue.
“WACO, Texas — President Bush yesterday said he opposes a civilian project to monitor illegal aliens crossing the border, characterizing them as "vigilantes." He said he would pressure Congress to further loosen immigration law. More than 1,000 people — including 30 pilots and their private planes — have volunteered for the Minuteman Project, beginning next month along the Arizona-Mexico border. Civilians will monitor the movement of illegal aliens for the month of April and report them to the Border Patrol.”
The Americans who are observing our border do so because our government has failed miserably to stem the flow of illegal immigrants.
These observers are not vigilantes – they are justifiably concerned citizens. You should embrace their willingness to assist the government with this problem. Why aren’t you?
http://www.washingtontimes.com/national/20050324-122200-6209r.htm
El Presidente Fox of Mexico should not be allowed to influence or dictate American immigration policy. Your comments about border observers being vigilantes are just flat wrong and fail to address the main issue.
“WACO, Texas — President Bush yesterday said he opposes a civilian project to monitor illegal aliens crossing the border, characterizing them as "vigilantes." He said he would pressure Congress to further loosen immigration law. More than 1,000 people — including 30 pilots and their private planes — have volunteered for the Minuteman Project, beginning next month along the Arizona-Mexico border. Civilians will monitor the movement of illegal aliens for the month of April and report them to the Border Patrol.”
The Americans who are observing our border do so because our government has failed miserably to stem the flow of illegal immigrants.
These observers are not vigilantes – they are justifiably concerned citizens. You should embrace their willingness to assist the government with this problem. Why aren’t you?
http://www.washingtontimes.com/national/20050324-122200-6209r.htm
Wednesday, March 23, 2005
Good
If this "former" public official has that much problem saying the Pledge of Allegiance at a public meeting, perhaps he should not be a public official.
All he had to do was refrain from saying “under God.” No one would have minded. Or noticed.
Bet the left wingers in Estes Park and Boulder are having a field day with this one. Good.
All he had to do was refrain from saying “under God.” No one would have minded. Or noticed.
Bet the left wingers in Estes Park and Boulder are having a field day with this one. Good.
Ungood
I had a very interesting conversation today with some friends and coworkers about the “non-words” that we use in the military.
One shop uses a non-word which I believe may become my all time favorite non-word: ungood (the opposite of good).
Good – Ungood. Aah, the simplicity of the English language.
One shop uses a non-word which I believe may become my all time favorite non-word: ungood (the opposite of good).
Good – Ungood. Aah, the simplicity of the English language.
Red China shot itself in the foot (without EU weapons – this time)
I’m sure the Red Chinese once again publicly threatening Taiwan had nothing to do with the EU decision. Or Secretary Rice. Or linkage to North Korea. Or...well, you get the point.
I guess we still have some work to do
The title of this article says it all. Happened in Basra.
“Holy Warriors Murder Students at "Immoral Picnic"
Not sure these scum meet the western criteria of "warriors". Darn, there I go, being judgmental again.
“Holy Warriors Murder Students at "Immoral Picnic"
Not sure these scum meet the western criteria of "warriors". Darn, there I go, being judgmental again.
Sunday, March 20, 2005
The bad guys are coming to Taiwan
And the irresponsible EU wants to sell weapons to Red China to help it invade Taiwan
From the International Herald Tribune. “But even taking seriously the Europeans' assertion that this is "merely" a political signal, what signal does the EU think it's sending? In addition to rewarding China for a human rights record since 1989 that is at best mixed, Europe's actions come at a time when China is sending its own political signals with legislation threatening the use of force to deal with any Taiwanese moves toward independence - or even with a lack of progress toward unification.In this context, Americans see the lifting of the embargo not as an enlightened gesture of engagement, but, at best, as the irresponsible pursuit of commercial advantage in the growing Chinese market. At worst, it is a direct threat to the security of the United States and key partners in Asia.”
Again, someone needs to tell me how the EU has any standing to lecture anyone on morality, diplomacy, or leadership in this world.
Again, someone needs to tell me how the EU has any standing to lecture anyone on morality, diplomacy, or leadership in this world.
Why the New York Times has little credibility
Good news on Iraq? Can’t have that, can we? So, find some anecdotal evidence to spin it the other direction.
This blogger illustrates why Main Stream Media continues to have little credibility with many readers. This classis example says it all: Polls in Iraq show that the citizens there are more optimistic than ever about the future. So, what does the Times do? Interview a few local Iraqis and provide anecdotal evidence which contradicts the poll, providing a very negative view of Iraq and American success thus far.
The sad thing is, and this does not bode well for the future of media like the Times, that we now expect this of them, and are no longer surprised when they do this.
This blogger illustrates why Main Stream Media continues to have little credibility with many readers. This classis example says it all: Polls in Iraq show that the citizens there are more optimistic than ever about the future. So, what does the Times do? Interview a few local Iraqis and provide anecdotal evidence which contradicts the poll, providing a very negative view of Iraq and American success thus far.
The sad thing is, and this does not bode well for the future of media like the Times, that we now expect this of them, and are no longer surprised when they do this.
Oh, to be able to write this well
Mark Steyn on the new version of “The Flight of the Phoenix”
I remember watching this movie with Favorite Grandma and Grandpa in an AAFES theater in Okinawa in the mid-60s. Jimmy Stewart. Hardy Krueger. ‘Nuff said. For whatever reason, I’ve always had fond memories of this movie, so when it popped up on Amazon a few months ago, I bought it.
Still worth watching with a great bottle of Secco Rose from Herxheim, with a good book on the Italian Campaign in your hand - now that’s multitasking!
I remember watching this movie with Favorite Grandma and Grandpa in an AAFES theater in Okinawa in the mid-60s. Jimmy Stewart. Hardy Krueger. ‘Nuff said. For whatever reason, I’ve always had fond memories of this movie, so when it popped up on Amazon a few months ago, I bought it.
Still worth watching with a great bottle of Secco Rose from Herxheim, with a good book on the Italian Campaign in your hand - now that’s multitasking!
Guess he mouthed off again, calling Republicans “braindead”
The only “braindead” thing in America is Howard Dean. I know, that's a bit harsh, but jeez, does this guy have a midpoint of decorum at all?
Aaah, what a great American. Of course, he mouthed off in Canada. Dixie Chicks moment anyone? You remember, go to a foreign country and bad mouth your country.
Every time I read something about this guy I just love that he is the chairman of the Democratic National Committee.
Like I’ve said before in this space, it’s a plot. By Hillary and Bill. Dean will drag the Dems down the extremist path, and make Hillary seem moderate by comparison.
Herr Dean, should you decide to come to my town, please let me know. I would love to go out for dinner and then talk about the issues. My treat at my favorite restaurant. It has a great view of my town with plenty of windows.You, me, Favorite Wife, and someone from your team. No press, no mikes, no pressure. Just a great dinner and superb conversation on the spot where I decided to be Bedrock Guy.
Let me know, but please give me some notice, because my calendar is getting full through June.
Aaah, what a great American. Of course, he mouthed off in Canada. Dixie Chicks moment anyone? You remember, go to a foreign country and bad mouth your country.
Every time I read something about this guy I just love that he is the chairman of the Democratic National Committee.
Like I’ve said before in this space, it’s a plot. By Hillary and Bill. Dean will drag the Dems down the extremist path, and make Hillary seem moderate by comparison.
Herr Dean, should you decide to come to my town, please let me know. I would love to go out for dinner and then talk about the issues. My treat at my favorite restaurant. It has a great view of my town with plenty of windows.You, me, Favorite Wife, and someone from your team. No press, no mikes, no pressure. Just a great dinner and superb conversation on the spot where I decided to be Bedrock Guy.
Let me know, but please give me some notice, because my calendar is getting full through June.
Saturday, March 19, 2005
Milbank and media bias
Dana Milbank, who claims to have been accused of bias in Washington Post reports by both left wingers and the right, has an interesting article in Saturday’s post. He's not biased. Just ask him.
His claims? “Partisans on the left and right have formed cottage industries devoted to discrediting what they dismissively call the "mainstream media" - the networks, daily newspapers and newsmagazines. Their goal: to steer readers and viewers toward ideologically driven outlets that will confirm their own views and protect them from disagreeable facts. In an increasingly fragmented media world, ideologues have 9already devolved into parallel universes, in which liberals and conservatives can select talk radio hosts, cable news pundits and blogs that share their prejudices.”
That’s his clever way of denigrating bloggers who fact check these main stream media reporters who believe that they, and only they, with their editors and sources, can be trusted to provide truth in media.
Then he states this is bad for the country, because too many people believe too many things that have been “proven” to be incorrect. And while he says this is not just about supporters of President Bush, and he tangentially mentions left wing issues, his primary examples are all issues concerning the war (no bias there, eh Dana?).
“But our dominant bias is skepticism of whoever is in power.” I would hope so, and I concur that the mainstream media suitably hounded President Clinton during his scandalous years in office. But, to what levels will you go in your attempts to examine those in power? I surmise the enthusiasm climbs depending on the proximity of those in “power” to the center and right.
“But we're up against some short-sighted partisans who would prefer to do away with this truth-telling role.”
And who would this be? Name one “partisan” who wants to “do away with this truth-telling role”? The “partisans" on both sides want you to tell the truth and admit your failures and lack of objectivity. Half of your problem stems from your attempts to hide or deny your personal bias, which every human has. Just admit it, then, take it one step further and concede how it influences your journalism. Once you recognize that as an individual, you will be a better reporter, and more importantly, a more credible reporter.
NOTE: Just because people do not believe you does not mean they believe Limbaugh, O’Reilly, or any of the left wing pundits either.
Please spare us trite little conclusions like this in your attempt to ennoble your drifting profession and its questionable ethical standards: “Imagine that! An independent press looking for the truth rather than serving as stenographers for the powerful. It's a quaint tradition Americans would be wise not to abandon”
Mr. Milbank – don’t make us abandon your tradition and profession because of our total mistrust of your methods, facts, analysis, and ethics. Don’t make us abandon your tradition and profession while you support “fake but accurate” work from your professional colleagues. Don’t make us abandon your tradition and profession while your profession redefines “truth” based on your personal biases and left wing outlooks.
Your readers, and bloggers, did not cause this lack of trust. You and your colleagues did.
Now, what will you do to reestablish our trust other than rationalizing the past failures of your profession?
His claims? “Partisans on the left and right have formed cottage industries devoted to discrediting what they dismissively call the "mainstream media" - the networks, daily newspapers and newsmagazines. Their goal: to steer readers and viewers toward ideologically driven outlets that will confirm their own views and protect them from disagreeable facts. In an increasingly fragmented media world, ideologues have 9already devolved into parallel universes, in which liberals and conservatives can select talk radio hosts, cable news pundits and blogs that share their prejudices.”
That’s his clever way of denigrating bloggers who fact check these main stream media reporters who believe that they, and only they, with their editors and sources, can be trusted to provide truth in media.
Then he states this is bad for the country, because too many people believe too many things that have been “proven” to be incorrect. And while he says this is not just about supporters of President Bush, and he tangentially mentions left wing issues, his primary examples are all issues concerning the war (no bias there, eh Dana?).
“But our dominant bias is skepticism of whoever is in power.” I would hope so, and I concur that the mainstream media suitably hounded President Clinton during his scandalous years in office. But, to what levels will you go in your attempts to examine those in power? I surmise the enthusiasm climbs depending on the proximity of those in “power” to the center and right.
“But we're up against some short-sighted partisans who would prefer to do away with this truth-telling role.”
And who would this be? Name one “partisan” who wants to “do away with this truth-telling role”? The “partisans" on both sides want you to tell the truth and admit your failures and lack of objectivity. Half of your problem stems from your attempts to hide or deny your personal bias, which every human has. Just admit it, then, take it one step further and concede how it influences your journalism. Once you recognize that as an individual, you will be a better reporter, and more importantly, a more credible reporter.
NOTE: Just because people do not believe you does not mean they believe Limbaugh, O’Reilly, or any of the left wing pundits either.
Please spare us trite little conclusions like this in your attempt to ennoble your drifting profession and its questionable ethical standards: “Imagine that! An independent press looking for the truth rather than serving as stenographers for the powerful. It's a quaint tradition Americans would be wise not to abandon”
Mr. Milbank – don’t make us abandon your tradition and profession because of our total mistrust of your methods, facts, analysis, and ethics. Don’t make us abandon your tradition and profession while you support “fake but accurate” work from your professional colleagues. Don’t make us abandon your tradition and profession while your profession redefines “truth” based on your personal biases and left wing outlooks.
Your readers, and bloggers, did not cause this lack of trust. You and your colleagues did.
Now, what will you do to reestablish our trust other than rationalizing the past failures of your profession?
The left and its allies in Old Europe were wrong – and they know it
On this second anniversary of the start of Operation Iraqi Freedom, I want to thank the soldiers of the V (U.S.) Corps that drove Saddam Hussein and his murderous system into the desert and destroyed that shameful way of live.
The web contains some recognition of the anniversary but I think these sources represent the best of what I want to say to the doubters and haters of both sides (but mostly the left wing and those “friends” from Old Europe).
First, from Charles Krauthammer at the Post, “What’s left? Shame.”
"At his news conference on Wednesday, President Bush declined an invitation to claim vindication for his policy of spreading democracy in the Middle East. After two years of attacks on him as a historical illiterate pursuing the childish fantasy of Middle East democracy, he was entitled to claim a bit of credit. Yet he declined, partly out of modesty (as with Ronald Reagan, one of the secrets of his political success) and partly because he has learned the perils of declaring any mission accomplished.
…But we do know one thing: Those who claimed, with great certainty, that Arabs are an exception to the human tendency toward freedom, that they live in a stunted and distorted culture that makes them love their chains -- and that the notion the United States could help trigger a democratic revolution by militarily deposing their oppressors was a fantasy -- have been proved wrong….
…Until now. Now that the real Arab street has risen to claim rights that the West takes for granted, the left takes note. It is forced to acknowledge that those brutish Americans led by their simpleton cowboy might have been right. It has no choice. It is shamed. A Lebanese, amid a sea of a million other Lebanese, raises a placard reading "Thank you, George W. Bush," and all that Euro-pretense, moral and intellectual, collapses."
Glenn Reynolds sums up my feelings about these anti-American bigots, Saddam supporters, and racists that said Arabs couldn’t handle democracy. The left, old Europe, and the main stream media forfeited tremendous moral credibility the last two years, credibility which will be difficult to recover.
“WAR CRITICS want to mark the anniversary of the war -- there will be an "antiwar protest" at my local mall tomorrow and there are all sorts of events planned worldwide -- but a proper way of marking the date would be with a mass apology to the Iraqi people, and to George W. Bush, for taking the wrong side at a crucial moment in history.
Sackcloth, ashes, and signs reading: WE WERE WRONG, SORRY WE TRIED TO BLOCK ARAB DEMOCRACY, and WRONG ABOUT AFGHANISTAN, WRONG ABOUT IRAQ -- DON'T LISTEN TO US NEXT TIME would be appropriate.
I'm not expecting that. But at least some people are marking the occasion in suitable fashion. It may be premature to gloat, but it's not premature to point out the moral and intellectual bankruptcy of the "peace" movement, which has been apparent since the very beginning”
Iraqi and Afghani democracy is not yet complete. Lebanon could fail and Iran may never transform. None of this, however, would be discussed this weekend without the courage of the men and women of V Corps two years ago. Thank you for your service and your courage.
The web contains some recognition of the anniversary but I think these sources represent the best of what I want to say to the doubters and haters of both sides (but mostly the left wing and those “friends” from Old Europe).
First, from Charles Krauthammer at the Post, “What’s left? Shame.”
"At his news conference on Wednesday, President Bush declined an invitation to claim vindication for his policy of spreading democracy in the Middle East. After two years of attacks on him as a historical illiterate pursuing the childish fantasy of Middle East democracy, he was entitled to claim a bit of credit. Yet he declined, partly out of modesty (as with Ronald Reagan, one of the secrets of his political success) and partly because he has learned the perils of declaring any mission accomplished.
…But we do know one thing: Those who claimed, with great certainty, that Arabs are an exception to the human tendency toward freedom, that they live in a stunted and distorted culture that makes them love their chains -- and that the notion the United States could help trigger a democratic revolution by militarily deposing their oppressors was a fantasy -- have been proved wrong….
…Until now. Now that the real Arab street has risen to claim rights that the West takes for granted, the left takes note. It is forced to acknowledge that those brutish Americans led by their simpleton cowboy might have been right. It has no choice. It is shamed. A Lebanese, amid a sea of a million other Lebanese, raises a placard reading "Thank you, George W. Bush," and all that Euro-pretense, moral and intellectual, collapses."
Glenn Reynolds sums up my feelings about these anti-American bigots, Saddam supporters, and racists that said Arabs couldn’t handle democracy. The left, old Europe, and the main stream media forfeited tremendous moral credibility the last two years, credibility which will be difficult to recover.
“WAR CRITICS want to mark the anniversary of the war -- there will be an "antiwar protest" at my local mall tomorrow and there are all sorts of events planned worldwide -- but a proper way of marking the date would be with a mass apology to the Iraqi people, and to George W. Bush, for taking the wrong side at a crucial moment in history.
Sackcloth, ashes, and signs reading: WE WERE WRONG, SORRY WE TRIED TO BLOCK ARAB DEMOCRACY, and WRONG ABOUT AFGHANISTAN, WRONG ABOUT IRAQ -- DON'T LISTEN TO US NEXT TIME would be appropriate.
I'm not expecting that. But at least some people are marking the occasion in suitable fashion. It may be premature to gloat, but it's not premature to point out the moral and intellectual bankruptcy of the "peace" movement, which has been apparent since the very beginning”
Iraqi and Afghani democracy is not yet complete. Lebanon could fail and Iran may never transform. None of this, however, would be discussed this weekend without the courage of the men and women of V Corps two years ago. Thank you for your service and your courage.
Friday, March 18, 2005
More on George Kennan
George Kennan died Thursday at the age of 101.
See a more precise discussion of his philosophy, and its downsides, at Oxblog. Kennan had a lot of warts. He even denounced how President Truman used “containment” to divide the world into free and totalitarian spheres.
Nonetheless, a fascinating life, and a man I enjoyed reading about, beginning during college when I studied history and national security policy. May he rest in peace.
See a more precise discussion of his philosophy, and its downsides, at Oxblog. Kennan had a lot of warts. He even denounced how President Truman used “containment” to divide the world into free and totalitarian spheres.
Nonetheless, a fascinating life, and a man I enjoyed reading about, beginning during college when I studied history and national security policy. May he rest in peace.
This is obscene
What left wing fanatic in Seattle is being allowed to use the public schools for their anti-American, subversive crap?
West Seattle High. Bastion of academic supremacy - NOT. Anyone in Seattle paying attention to what your teachers and administrators are doing at West Seattle High?
“Three invited pro-military speakers were shocked last Friday when they arrived for a West Seattle High student assembly to confront a theater stage strewn with figures costumed as Iraqi men, women and children splashed with blood....
For Nadine Gulit of Operation Support Our Troops, the spectacle was sickening.
She had been asked by student organizers to provide three speakers and she delivered.
"I was told there would be three on each side. No debates. No rebuttal," she said in the e-mail she fired off to members of the Seattle School Board. "At no time was I referred to a teacher nor did a teacher contact me. As I walked into the theater there was a young girl wearing a mask and crawling on the floor. And, over the loud speaker (someone) was denouncing our military, saying 'Americans are killing my family!' "
Not a good thing for "impressionable students who may have family serving Iraq," Gulit told student organizers. "Two of our speakers had returned from Iraq and Afghanistan."
With her speakers in tow, Gulit saw the bloodied figures on the floor. Stage right were students in orange Abu Ghraib-style prison jumpsuits, hoods over heads, pounding on plates with spoons. Next, a student dressed as a grieving Iraqi woman knelt near a bloody body while, over a microphone, a narrator wailed the story of civilians shot, kicked and beaten by American soldiers.”
Maybe Boeing and other defense contractors need to depart this town. In fact, it would be interesting to see if any defense contractors donate money, time, or equipment to this school. If so, why?
Apparently, according to Michelle Malkin, this sort of thing has happened before in Seattle.
West Seattle High. Bastion of academic supremacy - NOT. Anyone in Seattle paying attention to what your teachers and administrators are doing at West Seattle High?
“Three invited pro-military speakers were shocked last Friday when they arrived for a West Seattle High student assembly to confront a theater stage strewn with figures costumed as Iraqi men, women and children splashed with blood....
For Nadine Gulit of Operation Support Our Troops, the spectacle was sickening.
She had been asked by student organizers to provide three speakers and she delivered.
"I was told there would be three on each side. No debates. No rebuttal," she said in the e-mail she fired off to members of the Seattle School Board. "At no time was I referred to a teacher nor did a teacher contact me. As I walked into the theater there was a young girl wearing a mask and crawling on the floor. And, over the loud speaker (someone) was denouncing our military, saying 'Americans are killing my family!' "
Not a good thing for "impressionable students who may have family serving Iraq," Gulit told student organizers. "Two of our speakers had returned from Iraq and Afghanistan."
With her speakers in tow, Gulit saw the bloodied figures on the floor. Stage right were students in orange Abu Ghraib-style prison jumpsuits, hoods over heads, pounding on plates with spoons. Next, a student dressed as a grieving Iraqi woman knelt near a bloody body while, over a microphone, a narrator wailed the story of civilians shot, kicked and beaten by American soldiers.”
Maybe Boeing and other defense contractors need to depart this town. In fact, it would be interesting to see if any defense contractors donate money, time, or equipment to this school. If so, why?
Apparently, according to Michelle Malkin, this sort of thing has happened before in Seattle.
Senator Bayh is right…
…and I’d never trust the current Democratic Party with the life of my family.
A very interesting article in the New Yorker about how weak the Democrats are in national security.
A very interesting article in the New Yorker about how weak the Democrats are in national security.
Thursday, March 17, 2005
So, if the French get some credit for it, ok
Lileks on Lebanon
Just read the whole thing. I particularly love his commentary on French support.
"I wrote a few weeks ago about the French involvement here – since they regard Lebanon as part of their sphere of influence, shouldn’t we be wary? Shouldn’t we keep them from getting any credit, or muscle them to the wings? Eh. I don’t care.. Let ‘em in, let Chanticleer believe he summoned the dawn, if the end result is a free Lebanon. Of course if the Administration does pull out a chair for France here, it will be regarded as a “sign” that the United States has “bent to prevailing realities in the region” and “abandoned the unilateral policy” that characterized the Iraq policy. Fine; whatever. The United States invents forks, the French determine which order they should be arrayed on the table, and they get the credit for the exquisite meal. That’s how the short run will look for a while. The long run will look different. Not too different – note how we seem to believe that France in WW2 was composed entirely of partisans who spent every night in Monmartre cafes muttering plans to blow up German barracks. But - dang my simplisme – I tend to think that if Lebanon is freed, history might note a glancing relationship between the Cedar Revolution and the deposition of the occupying government’s fascist twin next door."
Just read the whole thing. I particularly love his commentary on French support.
"I wrote a few weeks ago about the French involvement here – since they regard Lebanon as part of their sphere of influence, shouldn’t we be wary? Shouldn’t we keep them from getting any credit, or muscle them to the wings? Eh. I don’t care.. Let ‘em in, let Chanticleer believe he summoned the dawn, if the end result is a free Lebanon. Of course if the Administration does pull out a chair for France here, it will be regarded as a “sign” that the United States has “bent to prevailing realities in the region” and “abandoned the unilateral policy” that characterized the Iraq policy. Fine; whatever. The United States invents forks, the French determine which order they should be arrayed on the table, and they get the credit for the exquisite meal. That’s how the short run will look for a while. The long run will look different. Not too different – note how we seem to believe that France in WW2 was composed entirely of partisans who spent every night in Monmartre cafes muttering plans to blow up German barracks. But - dang my simplisme – I tend to think that if Lebanon is freed, history might note a glancing relationship between the Cedar Revolution and the deposition of the occupying government’s fascist twin next door."
But of course
And this drives the left wing batty, which makes the trend toward freedom in the Middle East even more fun and satisfying to watch. Long way to go though, so let’s not get complacent.
"This is not the end. It is not even the beginning of the end. But it is, perhaps, the end of the beginning."
The real Churchill, Winston, during a speech given at the Lord Mayor's Luncheon, Mansion House, London, November 10, 1942.
"This is not the end. It is not even the beginning of the end. But it is, perhaps, the end of the beginning."
The real Churchill, Winston, during a speech given at the Lord Mayor's Luncheon, Mansion House, London, November 10, 1942.
No, I did not write this letter
The views on the Democratic Party from one former Democrat. Very interesting, well thought out, and extremely funny (except that it is not good for America for one of its major political parties to be SO broken).
More on Democracy – a babe magnet
Who would you rather support with overseas operations in a quest for liberty and freedom?
Check out the comparison shown here by Michael Totten.
Then, read an analysis of some of the other issues surrounding who is protesting in Lebanon.
Check out the comparison shown here by Michael Totten.
Then, read an analysis of some of the other issues surrounding who is protesting in Lebanon.
Yes, someday the Red Chinese will attack and invade Taiwan
I believe the Red Chinese will wait until after the 2008 Olympics. They need that event to generate great goodwill and a perception of Chinese “liberalization”, and literally, what a “swell” place Red China is to live and work. Then, they’ll take Taiwan out, daring the U.S. to do anything about it. Of course, the Red Chinese will launch massive cyber attacks on our infrastructure, financial, and communications systems, further providing a good lesson of their technological prowess and terrifying the Europeans and East Asians.
So, when it happens, what will Hillary do?
So, when it happens, what will Hillary do?
Turning Hillary on her head
What a great twist on Hillary’s left wing child raising philosophy.
"The US has correctly seen that it takes a village to raise a suicide hijacker and we are out to save the village from itself by giving them the opportunity to embrace freedom. We aren't going to apologize to the village for imagined sins."
"The US has correctly seen that it takes a village to raise a suicide hijacker and we are out to save the village from itself by giving them the opportunity to embrace freedom. We aren't going to apologize to the village for imagined sins."
Congratulations to Dr. Summers at Harvard
The left wing faculty voted “no confidence” in Harvard’s President.
If someone can be defined by the nature of their enemies, then Dr. Summers is truly a tremendous leader and university president.
The Harvard paper contained self-congratulatory drivel from left wing academics talking about “honor”. I doubt they understand the concept. This blog covers the sad affair.
Instapundit has some very good answers to send to the academics.
If someone can be defined by the nature of their enemies, then Dr. Summers is truly a tremendous leader and university president.
The Harvard paper contained self-congratulatory drivel from left wing academics talking about “honor”. I doubt they understand the concept. This blog covers the sad affair.
Instapundit has some very good answers to send to the academics.
A Lieutenant in Iraq
I knew if I looked today I would find
Something great to read by P.J. O’Rourke.
Amazing, the day after I remember that I have not lately read anything by O’Rourke, I stumble onto this.
And it’s a twofer. It slams Kerry and the left’s contempt for free speech.
New Sisyphus points out, once again, how the left wing loves free speech, as long as you say what they want to hear. Otherwise, well, forget it.
Amazing, the day after I remember that I have not lately read anything by O’Rourke, I stumble onto this.
And it’s a twofer. It slams Kerry and the left’s contempt for free speech.
New Sisyphus points out, once again, how the left wing loves free speech, as long as you say what they want to hear. Otherwise, well, forget it.
All about Ward Churchill in one cartoon
This pretty much summarizes the issues about this hate monger
I guess pulling out of Iraq does not guarantee freedom from fear
Wonder if the government of the Philippines understands that now? Does the government of Spain?
The Manila police have retaken the jail. A win for the home team. For the good guys, sometimes violence IS the answer!
My favorite quote from Belmont Club’s superb commentary on the jail uprising and the subsequent, ah, return to normalcy:
"Although I can't prove it my own unfounded instinct says that the Philippine cops have made sure the Peace Lobby and the human rights lawyers aren't going to be taking these Abu Sayyaf commanders to any more press conferences."
"For another view we must turn to Max Soliven.
When the gunsmoke – and tear gas – cleared, the most notorious kidnappers-killers-and-bombers were dead: the bully Alhamzer Manatad Limbong, alias Bro. "Kosovo" who had been identified by Gracia Burnham as one of their cruel kidnappers, suspected of masterminding the SuperFerry 14 bombing which killed 110 helpless passengers, and triggered off the motorbike "bomb" in Magutay, Zamboanga City, which killed US M/Sgt. Mark Jackson, and seriously wounded US Capt. Mike Hummel in October 2002; Ghalib Andang, alias Commander "Robot" who had led the gang which kidnapped foreign tourists and Filipinos from the Malaysian tourist isle of Sipadan, and raped women hostages repeatedly, humiliating the Estrada government for months and collecting millions of dollars in ransom; and Nadzmi Sabdullah, alias Commander "Global", the noisy spokesman of the Sipadan kidnap caper. Also slain was ASG detainee Hasbi Dais alias Lando, who had conducted the Monday "negotiations" and rejected all the government’s calls for the group’s peaceful surrender."
The Manila police have retaken the jail. A win for the home team. For the good guys, sometimes violence IS the answer!
My favorite quote from Belmont Club’s superb commentary on the jail uprising and the subsequent, ah, return to normalcy:
"Although I can't prove it my own unfounded instinct says that the Philippine cops have made sure the Peace Lobby and the human rights lawyers aren't going to be taking these Abu Sayyaf commanders to any more press conferences."
"For another view we must turn to Max Soliven.
When the gunsmoke – and tear gas – cleared, the most notorious kidnappers-killers-and-bombers were dead: the bully Alhamzer Manatad Limbong, alias Bro. "Kosovo" who had been identified by Gracia Burnham as one of their cruel kidnappers, suspected of masterminding the SuperFerry 14 bombing which killed 110 helpless passengers, and triggered off the motorbike "bomb" in Magutay, Zamboanga City, which killed US M/Sgt. Mark Jackson, and seriously wounded US Capt. Mike Hummel in October 2002; Ghalib Andang, alias Commander "Robot" who had led the gang which kidnapped foreign tourists and Filipinos from the Malaysian tourist isle of Sipadan, and raped women hostages repeatedly, humiliating the Estrada government for months and collecting millions of dollars in ransom; and Nadzmi Sabdullah, alias Commander "Global", the noisy spokesman of the Sipadan kidnap caper. Also slain was ASG detainee Hasbi Dais alias Lando, who had conducted the Monday "negotiations" and rejected all the government’s calls for the group’s peaceful surrender."
I stand by everything I have ever said about this state
How could a state which gave us the Adams brothers, Paul Revere, the shot heard ‘round the world, and Bunker Hill, develop guys like Ted Kennedy and John Kerry (and Dukakis)? I’ve wrestled with this for years. Still, no answer. Now today, I see the great voters of MA are still giving Ted an “A”.
Help choose the 100 greatest Frenchmen
Tuesday, March 15, 2005
The Mullahs' worst nightmare
Young women taking charge of their own destiny, and their country.
Wizbang discusses, "The Babe Theory of Political Movements."
It's happening in Lebanon. Wizbang reminded me that I haven't read much of P.J O'Rourke lately. I need to fix that.
In the meantime, I noticed how little front page coverage I saw on the massive protest in Lebanon.
I look forward also to viewing extensive left wing support for the Lebanese democracy movement. Let's see it the left will put as much energy into supporting democracy as they did trying to keep Saddam in power.
Wizbang discusses, "The Babe Theory of Political Movements."
It's happening in Lebanon. Wizbang reminded me that I haven't read much of P.J O'Rourke lately. I need to fix that.
In the meantime, I noticed how little front page coverage I saw on the massive protest in Lebanon.
I look forward also to viewing extensive left wing support for the Lebanese democracy movement. Let's see it the left will put as much energy into supporting democracy as they did trying to keep Saddam in power.
Monday, March 14, 2005
I’ll bet the Hezbollah Team is hoping for halftime…
…so they can figure out how to get back in the game.
Word of advice – don’t play the Syrian fullback. That’s what got you in trouble in the first place.
Hezbollah threw a little rally last week in Beirut hoping to scare the Lebanese people a bit after their talk about democracy. At the rally, the Hezbollah team ranted about no foreigners in Lebanon while simultaneously praising Syria (I loved that). The web is awash with rumors that Hezbollah even imported some Syrians to get the attendance numbers up for the rally.
Today, the Lebanese people are responding to Hezbollah’s hate. Maybe a million +.
NRO has more photos.
I wonder what Assad Jr. is doing tonight?
This blogger wrote a great article comparing Hezbollah to the segregationists of the 60’s. Their rallies then were on the wrong side of human rights and history; the same now with Hezbollah.
If I were an Arab dictator or an Iranian mullah, I’d be ensuring my Swiss bank accounts and escape plans were wired.
I hope the Iranian people are watching all this and taking notes.
Word of advice – don’t play the Syrian fullback. That’s what got you in trouble in the first place.
Hezbollah threw a little rally last week in Beirut hoping to scare the Lebanese people a bit after their talk about democracy. At the rally, the Hezbollah team ranted about no foreigners in Lebanon while simultaneously praising Syria (I loved that). The web is awash with rumors that Hezbollah even imported some Syrians to get the attendance numbers up for the rally.
Today, the Lebanese people are responding to Hezbollah’s hate. Maybe a million +.
NRO has more photos.
I wonder what Assad Jr. is doing tonight?
This blogger wrote a great article comparing Hezbollah to the segregationists of the 60’s. Their rallies then were on the wrong side of human rights and history; the same now with Hezbollah.
If I were an Arab dictator or an Iranian mullah, I’d be ensuring my Swiss bank accounts and escape plans were wired.
I hope the Iranian people are watching all this and taking notes.
Mistakes were made
No kidding. As I said earlier – complacency kills. What’s a 51 year old female, 5 feet tall, doing with this criminal Nichols?
Who wrote the policies and regulations that authorized such a mismatch of physical attributes between a guard and a prisoner accused of violent crimes? Considering that he'd been found earlier with shanks, why were the procedures in this jail so lax as to allow this to occur?
The people of Atlanta are owed some explanations by the law enforcement and judicial teams about these murders.
Sunday, March 13, 2005
Why do people like to wear the Hammer and Sickle?
People who would never dream of wearing a swastika think it's cool to wear stuff bearing the hammer and sickle, the symbol of that discredited left wing movement called communism.
You remember Communism don’t you? Represented by guys like Lenin and Stalin and all their disciples? You know, guys that piled up more bodies than you can imagine, guys that destroyed nations, economic systems, ethnic groups, and suppressed man’s quest for human rights and liberties.
Yet, despite their evil, despite the crimes against humanity committed by communists, people think it's ok to wear a hammer and sickle.
Why is that? On that same line, why wear t-shirts with the face of another left wing murderer, Che Guevara? Would you wear a t-shirt with Hitler’s face? Or Himmler’s? No you wouldn’t. Che was just as much a murdering scum as the two murderers listed above – he just did not have the machine to accomplish his "vision".
Just another sterling bit of left wing hypocrisy.
I do need another T-shirt to wear once it decides to warm up in Germany.
I could wear this one and my Ronald Reagan t-shirt on alternate days.
The Senate should be ashamed of itself
Social Security reform – why not assess the tax on all your salary?
I agree with George Will that Senator Graham from SC has a good idea.
At least tax our salaries up to the current amount of a Senator’s or President’s salary. Why not do this?
Why are Republicans so opposed to this? OK, I know the answer to that. Maybe Republicans should not be so narrowly focused on taxes at the expense of the welfare of the Republic.
Well, I’m not. I'll pay SSN taxes on my salary - regardless of how much I earn.
At least tax our salaries up to the current amount of a Senator’s or President’s salary. Why not do this?
Why are Republicans so opposed to this? OK, I know the answer to that. Maybe Republicans should not be so narrowly focused on taxes at the expense of the welfare of the Republic.
Well, I’m not. I'll pay SSN taxes on my salary - regardless of how much I earn.
Am I guilty of this?
Free speech issues at CU - again?
The CU faculty did not get excited about a moderate professor being censured over his speech.
Silly me, I thought after their rabid defense of free speech in regards to Ward Churchill that they actually meant that professors should have the opportunity to challenge issues and generate debate in the classroom. You know, stimulate that 'ol intellectual thought process.
I guess not if the professor is not a left wing anti American flea bag.
Yet 200 members of the CU faculty expressed concern about the “free speech” aspects of Ward Churchill’s hatefilled ramblings.
Wonder why they want to defend a hater like Ward Churchill over free speech but not another member of the CU faculty?
The U.S. might make this outfit work after all
Pressure on Syria - from the UN!
The appointment of John Bolton as the U.S. Ambassador can only help to improve and motivate the decayed, corrupt organization known as the U.N.
The appointment of John Bolton as the U.S. Ambassador can only help to improve and motivate the decayed, corrupt organization known as the U.N.
I guess terrorists in the Middle East have links to Mexico
Saturday, March 12, 2005
Which sign-off do you prefer?
Just wondering.
If you had to vote on your preferred CBS Evening News anchor signoff line, which one would you choose?
Courage
or
AND THAT'S THE WAY IT IS, SATURDAY, 12 MARCH 2005.
I thought so.
If you had to vote on your preferred CBS Evening News anchor signoff line, which one would you choose?
Courage
or
AND THAT'S THE WAY IT IS, SATURDAY, 12 MARCH 2005.
I thought so.
Another love note to Rather from the Washington Post
Wow, what is it with Dan Rather and the Washington Post?
First, it was Tom Shales with his laudatory column on Wednesday, which I discussed here.
Then, Thursday, Lisa de Moraes writes one called, "'Courage' to the End."
Lovely.
A tidbits from Ms. Moraes article about which I'm just compelled to comment.
"With less than three minutes to go last night, he finally gave conservatives what they'd been praying for for more than two decades, a so-long speech, presented here in its entirety:"
We have not been "praying" for this. He hasn't even kept us up at night. He just was a very visible manifestation of the left wing media bias of which I'll bet Ms. Moraes is a card carrying member.
Now, he's off the daily CBS news shows, but he'll be back, probably if only to show 'courage'.
AND THAT'S THE WAY IT IS, SATURDAY, 12 MARCH 2005.
First, it was Tom Shales with his laudatory column on Wednesday, which I discussed here.
Then, Thursday, Lisa de Moraes writes one called, "'Courage' to the End."
Lovely.
A tidbits from Ms. Moraes article about which I'm just compelled to comment.
"With less than three minutes to go last night, he finally gave conservatives what they'd been praying for for more than two decades, a so-long speech, presented here in its entirety:"
We have not been "praying" for this. He hasn't even kept us up at night. He just was a very visible manifestation of the left wing media bias of which I'll bet Ms. Moraes is a card carrying member.
Now, he's off the daily CBS news shows, but he'll be back, probably if only to show 'courage'.
AND THAT'S THE WAY IT IS, SATURDAY, 12 MARCH 2005.
Delay needs to go
I've written before in this space about the ethical issues surrounding Tom Delay, the Republican House Majority Leader.
He needs to go. Yet another issue involving Tom Delay, alleged free trips and alleged influence peddling, complete with all the perceptions one might imagine.
The House Republicans need to remember their duty to the Constitution and the American people and quit circling the wagons around this guy. His ethical problems, and the convoluted means used to protect him, starting with gutting the House ethics committee, sicken me.
Mr. Hastert, time to lead by example. Time for you to stand up and request that Mr. Delay resign from his leadership positions. Time for you to put the House Ethics committee back on a pedestal of integrity and bipartisanship.
Otherwise, you are no better than the scandal ridden Democrats you replaced.
He needs to go. Yet another issue involving Tom Delay, alleged free trips and alleged influence peddling, complete with all the perceptions one might imagine.
The House Republicans need to remember their duty to the Constitution and the American people and quit circling the wagons around this guy. His ethical problems, and the convoluted means used to protect him, starting with gutting the House ethics committee, sicken me.
Mr. Hastert, time to lead by example. Time for you to stand up and request that Mr. Delay resign from his leadership positions. Time for you to put the House Ethics committee back on a pedestal of integrity and bipartisanship.
Otherwise, you are no better than the scandal ridden Democrats you replaced.
Complacency kills
In Atlanta, the security team got complacent. They allowed a thug with a history of violence, accused of rape, who had been baiting the prosecution in court, to walk around the courthouse without handcuffs and shackles.
Now, he's killed 3, maybe 4 people.
LaShawn Barber sums up my feelings about this scum and the mistakes that were made in Atlanta.
My condolences to the families, friends, and coworkers of those law enforcement and judicial members killed and wounded.
As for the thug, well....
Now, he's killed 3, maybe 4 people.
LaShawn Barber sums up my feelings about this scum and the mistakes that were made in Atlanta.
My condolences to the families, friends, and coworkers of those law enforcement and judicial members killed and wounded.
As for the thug, well....
Friday, March 11, 2005
Why I'll NEVER support a union
Because of stuff like this. Amazing.
''Marines at nearby Marine Corps Reserve Center say on Tuesday morning, the director of security at the UAW told them that while they support the troops, Marines driving foreign vehicles or sporting a President George Bush bumper sticker were no longer welcome to park there."
So, Marines reservists training on weekends cannot park, as they always have, in a United Auto Workers parking lot because the Marines drive foreign cars or have Bush bumper stickers.
And unions wonder why they suffer from declining membership.
On second thought, maybe I should title this post - Yet ANOTHER reason not to support a union.
''Marines at nearby Marine Corps Reserve Center say on Tuesday morning, the director of security at the UAW told them that while they support the troops, Marines driving foreign vehicles or sporting a President George Bush bumper sticker were no longer welcome to park there."
So, Marines reservists training on weekends cannot park, as they always have, in a United Auto Workers parking lot because the Marines drive foreign cars or have Bush bumper stickers.
And unions wonder why they suffer from declining membership.
On second thought, maybe I should title this post - Yet ANOTHER reason not to support a union.
Do you think Jane Fonda will ask her old friends in North Vietnam for medical treatment?
No, I don't either.
When I taught military history a few years ago, I started the block of instruction on the Vietnam War in the following manner:
When the students walked in the first class, they saw the overhead projector showing Jane Fonda sitting at a North Vietnamese anti-aircraft gun, wearing an NVA helmet.
The picture was taken when she visited North Vietnam during the Vietnam War. You remember, when the United States was at war with North Vietnam.
Yet Jane Fonda visited the enemy, and gave aide and comfort to the enemy, while American soldiers were in combat against North Vietnam, and American fighting men were being held prisoner by the North Vietnamese.
Tell me again why anyone would want to go see any movie featuring Jane Fonda?
When I taught military history a few years ago, I started the block of instruction on the Vietnam War in the following manner:
When the students walked in the first class, they saw the overhead projector showing Jane Fonda sitting at a North Vietnamese anti-aircraft gun, wearing an NVA helmet.
The picture was taken when she visited North Vietnam during the Vietnam War. You remember, when the United States was at war with North Vietnam.
Yet Jane Fonda visited the enemy, and gave aide and comfort to the enemy, while American soldiers were in combat against North Vietnam, and American fighting men were being held prisoner by the North Vietnamese.
Tell me again why anyone would want to go see any movie featuring Jane Fonda?
Churchill - now accused of plagiarism
And the hits just keep on coming. Wonder if Professor Neal at Duke University will defend him over this?
Given the report that CU and Churchill are working on a negotiated settlement, maybe items like this will help CU keep those settlement costs down, thereby allowing CU to spend more money on its football program.
According to the Rocky Mountain News:
"University of Colorado officials investigating embattled professor Ward Churchill received documents this week purporting to show that he plagiarized another professor's work.Officials at Dalhousie University in Nova Scotia sent CU an internal 1997 report detailing allegations about an article Churchill wrote.
"The article . . . is, in the opinion of our legal counsel, plagiarism," Dalhousie spokesman Charles Crosby said in summarizing the report's findings.
Churchill did not return calls to his home or office Thursday seeking comment.
Dalhousie began an investigation after professor Fay G. Cohen complained that Churchill used her research and writing in an essay without her permission and without giving her credit. Although the investigation substantiated her allegations, Cohen didn't pursue the matter because she felt threatened by Churchill, Crosby said.
Crosby said Cohen told Dalhousie officials in 1997 that Churchill had called her in the middle of the night and said, "I'll get you for this.""
Given the report that CU and Churchill are working on a negotiated settlement, maybe items like this will help CU keep those settlement costs down, thereby allowing CU to spend more money on its football program.
According to the Rocky Mountain News:
"University of Colorado officials investigating embattled professor Ward Churchill received documents this week purporting to show that he plagiarized another professor's work.Officials at Dalhousie University in Nova Scotia sent CU an internal 1997 report detailing allegations about an article Churchill wrote.
"The article . . . is, in the opinion of our legal counsel, plagiarism," Dalhousie spokesman Charles Crosby said in summarizing the report's findings.
Churchill did not return calls to his home or office Thursday seeking comment.
Dalhousie began an investigation after professor Fay G. Cohen complained that Churchill used her research and writing in an essay without her permission and without giving her credit. Although the investigation substantiated her allegations, Cohen didn't pursue the matter because she felt threatened by Churchill, Crosby said.
Crosby said Cohen told Dalhousie officials in 1997 that Churchill had called her in the middle of the night and said, "I'll get you for this.""
Wednesday, March 09, 2005
Not sure I’d put it this way
“Dan Rather, Leaving By the High Road”
Right.
One of his MSM, left wing buddies, Tom Shales of the Washington Post, wrote one of the more astonishing articles I've seen written by the media critic for a major American newspaper (and when you consider Rich at the Times, that's saying something).
As for the “high road”, Rather is now infamous for his participation in that less than honorable attempt to utilize “fake but accurate” documents for the story about President Bush’s service in the Guard.
Maybe Rather and his left wing MSM allies think he’s leaving with his head up, but its not the legacy with which I would want to depart an organization. Guess Shales’ article is called “positive spin.”
The key point here – Rather’s off the nightly news and therefore less likely to have as many people listening to his left wing, biased opinions about any issue.
Shales expresses some outrage over comments made by Walter Cronkite about Shales’ buddy Dan:
“Then on Monday, just two days before Rather's farewell, old man Cronkite, the anchor Rather replaced, had the stupefying temerity to say that he thought Bob Schieffer, the "Face the Nation" host who'll fill in on the "Evening News" until a remodeled program is hatched later this year, would have made a better anchor. "I would like to have seen him there a long time ago," Cronkite said of Schieffer on CNN. He also said Rather "gave the impression of playing a role more than simply trying to deliver the news to the audience."
Talk about bad form. "A codgerly old ass," one Rather loyalist, asking not to be identified, said of Cronkite. "He stayed alive just so he could see this moment." However pathetic Cronkite's remarks make him seem, they enforce the image of "Dan Rather -- Alone at the Top." Unlike some of Rather's adventures over the years -- the coolest anchor, he's one of the few men over 60 who can successfully still wear jeans -- this one is dead serious.”
Note to Tom Shales – I truly marvel at your understanding of the English language as shown by the use of the words “stupefying temerity” in regards to Walter Cronkite’s comments about Bob Schieffer. Why did Cronkite’s comments so offend you? Maybe you need an objectivity check. I’ll not waste my time reviewing your written work about the “fake but accurate” documents from last year’s little problem, but I’ll wager you didn’t call into question Rather’s “temerity” for using them in his story.
Final thought - The title of Reuters’ article is a bit more accurate than Shales’ lovefest: “Dan Rather's Farewell Overshadowed by CBS Scandal”.
Rather’s lack of objectivity over the years should be used as a case study in journalism training.
And that’s the way it is, Wednesday, 9 March, 2005.
Enlistment of African-Americans in the Army has been declining
According to the WP, the percentage of African-Americans enlisting in the Army has declined from 23.5% in 2000 to 13.9% of the total in 2005.
"Military scholars said the decline was not all that surprising, in part because African Americans' propensity to join the military has been dropping over the past decade. That had led some experts to predict that the percentage of black recruits would edge ever closer to their representation in the overall population -- 12.3 percent in the 2000 census.
David R. Segal, director of the Center for Research on Military Organization at the University of Maryland, said there are a number of societal factors merging simultaneously, including an improving economy, more jobs, increasing college enrollment and the fear of getting killed on the battlefield.
"I think it's bad for the Army in the long run because it makes their recruiting more difficult as they had become dependent on the overrepresentation of African Americans," Segal said. But, he said, "it's good for the military in the long run to have it more representative of the population. African Americans are simply finding alternatives other than the military for their post-high-school trajectories."
"Military scholars said the decline was not all that surprising, in part because African Americans' propensity to join the military has been dropping over the past decade. That had led some experts to predict that the percentage of black recruits would edge ever closer to their representation in the overall population -- 12.3 percent in the 2000 census.
David R. Segal, director of the Center for Research on Military Organization at the University of Maryland, said there are a number of societal factors merging simultaneously, including an improving economy, more jobs, increasing college enrollment and the fear of getting killed on the battlefield.
"I think it's bad for the Army in the long run because it makes their recruiting more difficult as they had become dependent on the overrepresentation of African Americans," Segal said. But, he said, "it's good for the military in the long run to have it more representative of the population. African Americans are simply finding alternatives other than the military for their post-high-school trajectories."
If the Americans had wanted to kill her…
...wouldn’t her car have a few more bullet holes in it?
Chrenkoff writes, “I wrote yesterday that "[we're] not at the stage yet where Giuliana Sgrena's version of events has more holes in it than her car, but it's getting there."Today, the Italian media has finally published the photos of the car in which Sgrena was traveling on the way to the Baghdad airport, when it was riddled with the now-infamous volley of 300-400 American bullets, killing the Italian intelligence agent and wounding Sgrena herself. The photos appear to show one bullet hole in the lower right-hand corner of the windscreen, next to the wiper."
Apparently, ol' Giuliana is a vehement anti-American. But we knew already that.
This Dutch reporter, Harald Doornbos, flew to Iraq with her. She and her left wing buddies were contemptuous and hateful of the Americans, calling them,”the biggest enemies of mankind."
It would be worth your time to read what else Mr. Doornbos says about this anti-American, communist reporter that the Italian government felt compelled to ranson. While you read about her antics and hate speech, think about how much ammo and bomb gear the enemy will be able to buy with her ransom money.
Giuliana Sgrena is the reason that Italian security officer who was there to ransom her sorry communist, America-hating butt, is dead. Her fault. Her ignorance, hatred and stupidity put her in danger, and people died saving her. She should be ashamed of herself, but, like so many left wingers, she has no shame.
Chrenkoff writes, “I wrote yesterday that "[we're] not at the stage yet where Giuliana Sgrena's version of events has more holes in it than her car, but it's getting there."Today, the Italian media has finally published the photos of the car in which Sgrena was traveling on the way to the Baghdad airport, when it was riddled with the now-infamous volley of 300-400 American bullets, killing the Italian intelligence agent and wounding Sgrena herself. The photos appear to show one bullet hole in the lower right-hand corner of the windscreen, next to the wiper."
Apparently, ol' Giuliana is a vehement anti-American. But we knew already that.
This Dutch reporter, Harald Doornbos, flew to Iraq with her. She and her left wing buddies were contemptuous and hateful of the Americans, calling them,”the biggest enemies of mankind."
It would be worth your time to read what else Mr. Doornbos says about this anti-American, communist reporter that the Italian government felt compelled to ranson. While you read about her antics and hate speech, think about how much ammo and bomb gear the enemy will be able to buy with her ransom money.
Giuliana Sgrena is the reason that Italian security officer who was there to ransom her sorry communist, America-hating butt, is dead. Her fault. Her ignorance, hatred and stupidity put her in danger, and people died saving her. She should be ashamed of herself, but, like so many left wingers, she has no shame.
Yes, she’s “outspoken” - Also just plain weird
She’s BAAAACK! Mrs. Heinz-Kerry, we’ve missed your commentary on our society and culture. Please continue.
Monday, March 07, 2005
Target on the mover - University of Colorado President resigns
Betsy Hoffman resigned today.
Given the twin scandals of Ward Churchill and CU Football, her tenure has been a bit bumpy as of late.
Now, I hope the regents will bring someone in with some backbone who will do the following:
1) emphasize that academic freedom cuts both ways (even for the left wing) and that such freedom has responsibilities
2) continue the investigation into Churchill's hate speech and the credentials under which he was hired and given tenure
3) sit the AD and football coach down for a bit of "footlocker" counseling on the rights and wrongs of college athletics and tell them, very directly, one more problem and you are gone.
In a major shocker, Ward Churchill has come to her defense, saying Ms. Hoffman has done an "amazing job".
Bet that's an endorsement she'd rather do without.
I'm sure Ms. Hoffman will find a job with some nice left wing think tank and start a study on academic freedom and how its endangered in the current political climate in America.
Given the twin scandals of Ward Churchill and CU Football, her tenure has been a bit bumpy as of late.
Now, I hope the regents will bring someone in with some backbone who will do the following:
1) emphasize that academic freedom cuts both ways (even for the left wing) and that such freedom has responsibilities
2) continue the investigation into Churchill's hate speech and the credentials under which he was hired and given tenure
3) sit the AD and football coach down for a bit of "footlocker" counseling on the rights and wrongs of college athletics and tell them, very directly, one more problem and you are gone.
In a major shocker, Ward Churchill has come to her defense, saying Ms. Hoffman has done an "amazing job".
Bet that's an endorsement she'd rather do without.
I'm sure Ms. Hoffman will find a job with some nice left wing think tank and start a study on academic freedom and how its endangered in the current political climate in America.
Why I’ll not buy an IPOD (at least for now)
People are less inclined to engage other people in our society, even without an IPOD blocking out daily life. This nice essay by Andrew Sullivan tries to figure out how we are tuning each other out.
The lack of community shows up in various ways, whether through the rudeness one encounters on the street, the accumulating liter in the neighborhood, or the willingness of someone to just throw open their car door, thereby creating a lovely ding in your new car (those who know me know what a personal favorite that situation is).
I disagree with Mr. Sullivan’s contention that this trend is exacerbated by a person watching cable, or listening to satellite radio, or viewing a narrow range of web sites. Those are symptoms of the trend, not the cause.
The lack of community shows up in various ways, whether through the rudeness one encounters on the street, the accumulating liter in the neighborhood, or the willingness of someone to just throw open their car door, thereby creating a lovely ding in your new car (those who know me know what a personal favorite that situation is).
I disagree with Mr. Sullivan’s contention that this trend is exacerbated by a person watching cable, or listening to satellite radio, or viewing a narrow range of web sites. Those are symptoms of the trend, not the cause.
Stuff happens
And when you keep the good guys in the dark, don’t be surprised when they react on the ground the way they did last week on the road to the airport in Iraq.
I’m sure the young soldiers at that checkpoint reacted accordingly, but let’s give the investigation a chance to determine the root cause of this tragedy. The article in the Washington Times addresses one possible root cause and the potential Italian political impact, which if true, will make me even more contemptuous of the Italian left wingers.
A final thought. Imagine you are a young American soldier, standing guard at a checkpoint. A speeding car comes toward your position.
How was the Italian vehicle moving toward the checkpoint you ask?
I’ll let the Italian reporter’s own article take it from here – in Giuliana Sgrena’s own words.
Another analysis of how the left wing is using this to spread their usual method of anti-American hatred can be found in Medienkritik.
Finally, Small Wars Journal provides a great rollup of the incident, left wing reaction, and what might happen should American soldiers hestitate to fire on cars speeding towards their checkpoint.
I’m sure the young soldiers at that checkpoint reacted accordingly, but let’s give the investigation a chance to determine the root cause of this tragedy. The article in the Washington Times addresses one possible root cause and the potential Italian political impact, which if true, will make me even more contemptuous of the Italian left wingers.
A final thought. Imagine you are a young American soldier, standing guard at a checkpoint. A speeding car comes toward your position.
How was the Italian vehicle moving toward the checkpoint you ask?
I’ll let the Italian reporter’s own article take it from here – in Giuliana Sgrena’s own words.
Note the term "losing control".
“The car kept on the road, going under an underpass full of puddles and almost losing control to avoid them. We all incredibly laughed. It was liberating. Losing control of the car in a street full of water in Baghdad and maybe wind up in a bad car accident after all I had been through would really be a tale I would not be able to tell. Nicola Calipari sat next to me. The driver twice called the embassy and in Italy that we were heading towards the airport that I knew was heavily patrolled by U.S. troops. They told me that we were less than a kilometer away...when...I only remember fire. At that point, a rain of fire and bullets hit us, shutting up forever the cheerful voices of a few minutes earlier.”Another analysis of how the left wing is using this to spread their usual method of anti-American hatred can be found in Medienkritik.
Finally, Small Wars Journal provides a great rollup of the incident, left wing reaction, and what might happen should American soldiers hestitate to fire on cars speeding towards their checkpoint.
Now Iran is threatening the world’s oil supplies
Hmmh. I’m sure our European friends are, how can I say this, mortified at the prospect that the nice terrorist supporting nation of Iran might actually not be as hospitable to EU diplomacy as the EU would like.
Newsisyphus says it all. I hope this ends well, but I’m not optimistic. The Iranian mullahs and their fundamentalist fascists have not played well with others since 1979. Maybe their current path will be their downfall.
“There really is no issue here. We will go along with the E.U. for now because, for now, we have time and it doesn't hurt anything to support German, French and British fantasies so long as we've made it clear to them that we expect their support when the whole thing blows up in their faces.
Imagine you're the President. Here's the summary of facts you are given that cannot be wished away, German style: the number-one terrorist sponsoring nation in the world, that holds suicide bomber conferences and "Death to America" rallies, is threatening not to stop working on its goal for a viable nuclear programme no matter what.
It doesn't matter who the President is under this scenario; Iran will not acquire a nuclear weapon. It just simply isn't going to happen. It's only a matter of time before the bombs start to fall.
One by one, the nations that threaten us are coming to judgment day. Tehran, for all its preening and posturing, is no different.They've had this one coming since 1979, and we don't mean an apology from Bill Clinton”
My bet is, that if a fight occurs, the EU will be nowhere to be found, and in fact, will make life extremely hard for the United States to conduct operations.
Having said that, it remains in the interests of the United States to allow the EU and the Iranian people to develop this situation. The mullahs will play the nationalist card. We, on the other hand, should stridently play the democracy card, and hard, using every asset short of active, large scale, operations. Yes, this may take time, but a democratic Iran is in our interests.
Belmont Club examines how the Iranians might block the Straits of Hormuz and speculates that the EU and Chinese would be forced to act based on their economic self-interests.
Maybe this is the way to go.
Newsisyphus says it all. I hope this ends well, but I’m not optimistic. The Iranian mullahs and their fundamentalist fascists have not played well with others since 1979. Maybe their current path will be their downfall.
“There really is no issue here. We will go along with the E.U. for now because, for now, we have time and it doesn't hurt anything to support German, French and British fantasies so long as we've made it clear to them that we expect their support when the whole thing blows up in their faces.
Imagine you're the President. Here's the summary of facts you are given that cannot be wished away, German style: the number-one terrorist sponsoring nation in the world, that holds suicide bomber conferences and "Death to America" rallies, is threatening not to stop working on its goal for a viable nuclear programme no matter what.
It doesn't matter who the President is under this scenario; Iran will not acquire a nuclear weapon. It just simply isn't going to happen. It's only a matter of time before the bombs start to fall.
One by one, the nations that threaten us are coming to judgment day. Tehran, for all its preening and posturing, is no different.They've had this one coming since 1979, and we don't mean an apology from Bill Clinton”
My bet is, that if a fight occurs, the EU will be nowhere to be found, and in fact, will make life extremely hard for the United States to conduct operations.
Having said that, it remains in the interests of the United States to allow the EU and the Iranian people to develop this situation. The mullahs will play the nationalist card. We, on the other hand, should stridently play the democracy card, and hard, using every asset short of active, large scale, operations. Yes, this may take time, but a democratic Iran is in our interests.
Belmont Club examines how the Iranians might block the Straits of Hormuz and speculates that the EU and Chinese would be forced to act based on their economic self-interests.
Maybe this is the way to go.
The Virus of Democracy
I’ve found myself reading Der Spiegel online much more frequently. Maybe, despite their rather left wing, anti-American tendencies, its because I am beginning to see some glimmers of common sense. This author makes some good points.
Saturday, March 05, 2005
Where do we find Soldiers such as this?
Private First Class Jeremy Church, 724th Transportation Company, was recently awarded the Silver Star for his actions during an attack on his convoy near Baghdad on 9 April 2004.
From the Army press release:
“Church was the convoy commander’s driver in the lead vehicle. The convoy was taking fuel to Baghdad International Airport when the Madr Militia struck. Church’s actions are attributed with saving the lives of at least five Soldiers and four civilians.
Church drove aggressively through the “kill zone” to dodge explosions, obstacles and small arms fire, according to his citation. When the convoy commander was shot, Church grabbed his first aid pouch, ripped it open, and instructed the platoon leader to apply a bandage. Church fired his M-16 at the enemy as he continued to drive around barriers.
When an improvised explosive devised blew out a tire, Church continued driving for four miles on only three tires, all the while firing his M-16 out the window with his left hand. He finally led the convoy into a security perimeter established by a cavalry company from 2-12 Cav. He then carried his platoon leader out of the vehicle to a casualty collection point for treatment.
Then Church rallied the troopers to launch an immediate recovery mission and escorted them back into the kill zone.
“Pfc. Church identified the assistant commander’s vehicle amidst heavy black smoke and flaming wreckage of burning fuel tankers to find two more wounded Soldiers and four civilian truck drivers,” his citation reads, adding that after a hasty triage and treating a sucking chest wound, he “carried the Soldier over to one of the recovery vehicles while exposing himself to continuous enemy fire from both sides of the road.”
When all the wounded were loaded in the truck, there was no room and Church volunteered to remain behind. He climbed into a disabled Humvee for cover, according to his citation, and continued firing at and killing insurgents until the recovery team returned. He then loaded up several more wounded before sweeping the area for sensitive items and evacuating.”
Quite a story. Thank you PFC Church, for your heroism and your service to the Nation.
From the Army press release:
“Church was the convoy commander’s driver in the lead vehicle. The convoy was taking fuel to Baghdad International Airport when the Madr Militia struck. Church’s actions are attributed with saving the lives of at least five Soldiers and four civilians.
Church drove aggressively through the “kill zone” to dodge explosions, obstacles and small arms fire, according to his citation. When the convoy commander was shot, Church grabbed his first aid pouch, ripped it open, and instructed the platoon leader to apply a bandage. Church fired his M-16 at the enemy as he continued to drive around barriers.
When an improvised explosive devised blew out a tire, Church continued driving for four miles on only three tires, all the while firing his M-16 out the window with his left hand. He finally led the convoy into a security perimeter established by a cavalry company from 2-12 Cav. He then carried his platoon leader out of the vehicle to a casualty collection point for treatment.
Then Church rallied the troopers to launch an immediate recovery mission and escorted them back into the kill zone.
“Pfc. Church identified the assistant commander’s vehicle amidst heavy black smoke and flaming wreckage of burning fuel tankers to find two more wounded Soldiers and four civilian truck drivers,” his citation reads, adding that after a hasty triage and treating a sucking chest wound, he “carried the Soldier over to one of the recovery vehicles while exposing himself to continuous enemy fire from both sides of the road.”
When all the wounded were loaded in the truck, there was no room and Church volunteered to remain behind. He climbed into a disabled Humvee for cover, according to his citation, and continued firing at and killing insurgents until the recovery team returned. He then loaded up several more wounded before sweeping the area for sensitive items and evacuating.”
Quite a story. Thank you PFC Church, for your heroism and your service to the Nation.
Men like that deserve better leaders than former Klansman
Ladies and Gentlemen, Senator Robert Byrd, Democrat, West Virginia
Time for Byrd to go. His latest screed comparing Republican proposals for changes in the Senate and Nazis was beyond the bounds of decency. Such commentary has no place in our country or our Senate. He truly showed his ignorance of the horrors of Nazism and fascism with comments such as he made the other day.
He should be booted by the voters of West Virginia into the pork barrel from whence he came.
Roger L. Simon sums it up nicely: “The idea that someone who actually filibustered the Civil Rights [Act] of 1964 could lecture anyone on any moral issue is beyond comprehension”.
Senator Byrd’s complete remarks, filled with lovely references to the Nazis and Republicans, are here.
Time for Byrd to go. His latest screed comparing Republican proposals for changes in the Senate and Nazis was beyond the bounds of decency. Such commentary has no place in our country or our Senate. He truly showed his ignorance of the horrors of Nazism and fascism with comments such as he made the other day.
He should be booted by the voters of West Virginia into the pork barrel from whence he came.
Roger L. Simon sums it up nicely: “The idea that someone who actually filibustered the Civil Rights [Act] of 1964 could lecture anyone on any moral issue is beyond comprehension”.
Senator Byrd’s complete remarks, filled with lovely references to the Nazis and Republicans, are here.
No, I think he should stay - ol' Deano that is
But that’s because I’m a Republican. If I were a Democrat, this sentiment would be absolutely correct.
In economic terms, cut your losses, NOW. But the Democrats won’t.
On the other hand, as I’ve said before, this only makes Hillary look more moderate, thereby bolstering her credentials for 2008.
I saw somewhere that the Dems will allow ol' Deano to energize the base until about early 2007, then decide he's too dangerous to their need to appear moderate. So, look for the coup rumors before the 2006 elections. On the other hand, if the Dems do well in 2006, how can they purge Dean, no matter how extreme he sounds?
I blame it all on Karl Rove.
In economic terms, cut your losses, NOW. But the Democrats won’t.
On the other hand, as I’ve said before, this only makes Hillary look more moderate, thereby bolstering her credentials for 2008.
I saw somewhere that the Dems will allow ol' Deano to energize the base until about early 2007, then decide he's too dangerous to their need to appear moderate. So, look for the coup rumors before the 2006 elections. On the other hand, if the Dems do well in 2006, how can they purge Dean, no matter how extreme he sounds?
I blame it all on Karl Rove.
The Democrats "might" figure this out some day
I’ve said it before. I will never trust a Democrat with the security of the United States. How could I after watching them the last few years?
Now, even one of the favorite left wing bloggers, beloved by the Dems, has seen the light.
Now, even one of the favorite left wing bloggers, beloved by the Dems, has seen the light.
(Note: The link is to the entry at Instapundit, not the actual "favorite left wing blogger".)
God help the Republican Party if the Democrats ever get serious about bad guys and national security. Note that I said “ever”. I have my doubts they will be able to overcome their internal demons. A Democratic Party with liberal (not left wing) ideas about taking care of people, combined with moderate and common sense views on national security would be difficult for the Republicans to beat.
How could this happen? $80 oil?
I thought we invaded Iraq for cheap oil? Who should we blame for this?
CBS can do whatever it wants with its news show
But I’ll never watch it. Dan Rather has crippled that network, and while Peggy Noonan has written a nice piece on how CBS can revive its evening news, such ideas will never be recognized by those in charge.
Credibility and integrity are very tangible, but easily lost, qualities. CBS, over the years, culminating with its scandalous attempt to foist “fake but accurate” documents onto the public, has no credibility. Its integrity may be regained as it continues to work thru this mess.
Nonetheless, I have too many other sources for my news and information. CBS will not be one of them. Ever.
Credibility and integrity are very tangible, but easily lost, qualities. CBS, over the years, culminating with its scandalous attempt to foist “fake but accurate” documents onto the public, has no credibility. Its integrity may be regained as it continues to work thru this mess.
Nonetheless, I have too many other sources for my news and information. CBS will not be one of them. Ever.
Maybe Canada should join the EU
The way Canada has been acting lately makes this an interesting subject for debate. It acts a lot more like "Old Europe" than New World in many areas. Now Canada wants nothing to do with our missile defense. OK, whatever.
This cartoon at Cox and Forkum sums up my view on Canada and missile defense.
This article in the Christian Science Monitor says this scuffle is the fault of the U.S.
For the record, I do not believe it would be in our national interest to have a card carrying member of the EU on our northern flank, but Canada acts more like "Old Europe" every day.
This cartoon at Cox and Forkum sums up my view on Canada and missile defense.
This article in the Christian Science Monitor says this scuffle is the fault of the U.S.
For the record, I do not believe it would be in our national interest to have a card carrying member of the EU on our northern flank, but Canada acts more like "Old Europe" every day.
Democrats weren’t too worried about White House security in the 90’s
So why are they so concerned about access now?
Bryon York, writing in The Hill, thinks it may have something to do with how chaos reigned inside the Clinton White House, and how some of the people on the staff had interesting backgrounds.
Bryon York, writing in The Hill, thinks it may have something to do with how chaos reigned inside the Clinton White House, and how some of the people on the staff had interesting backgrounds.
Another example of how left wing academics get nervous when confronted with their bias
I don’t concur with what this young lady did to highlight the bias she believes is present on campus among the left wing faculty, but the process has served to highlight the issue of left wing academic bias.
Once again, just as in the Ward Churchill scandal at Colorado, the left wing faculty has expressed its support for academic freedom. Let’s see it they mean it.
Once again, just as in the Ward Churchill scandal at Colorado, the left wing faculty has expressed its support for academic freedom. Let’s see it they mean it.
Thursday, March 03, 2005
This fight is coming, probably sooner than we think…
And our friends in the EU won’t back us – I guarantee it.
I hope Congress does the right thing, starting with negating any recent contracts signed to buy European weapons. I can’t believe the USAF is even considering using EU assets to replace its tankers.
More on the rise of China, in this Newsweek article on MSNBC.
I hope Congress does the right thing, starting with negating any recent contracts signed to buy European weapons. I can’t believe the USAF is even considering using EU assets to replace its tankers.
More on the rise of China, in this Newsweek article on MSNBC.
Apparently Ward Churchill is not the only problem at the University of Colorado
But we knew that already. Seems the Chancellor, Betsy Hoffman, had a bad day in Denver concerning last year's scandal, the football team.
Right now, she’s bracketed by twin scandals, football and Churchill. She’s gained a short respite from Churchill as the “investigation” continues, but that storm will not be diverted, by either side of the equation.
The football scandal remains, in my opinion, the more damaging of the two. It’s occurrence, and lack of penalties for those involved in the football program and its oversight, smack of yet another problem at our universities, the influence and money gained by the sports programs.
Hoffman and her team already have a failing grade on the football scandal. I’m betting they fail again with Churchill. How long will the citizens of Colorado tolerate her leadership?
Right now, she’s bracketed by twin scandals, football and Churchill. She’s gained a short respite from Churchill as the “investigation” continues, but that storm will not be diverted, by either side of the equation.
The football scandal remains, in my opinion, the more damaging of the two. It’s occurrence, and lack of penalties for those involved in the football program and its oversight, smack of yet another problem at our universities, the influence and money gained by the sports programs.
Hoffman and her team already have a failing grade on the football scandal. I’m betting they fail again with Churchill. How long will the citizens of Colorado tolerate her leadership?
Another columnist's view of the problems at the University of Colorado.
Another way to look at the proposed EU Constitution
“Are we fools led by liars?”
I read one description of this EU Constitution that said it all. In short, you can place a small pamphlet containing the American Constitution in your back pocket. Try this with the EU Constitution and you will hurt yourself, as it is over 400 pages long.
It’s not a statement guaranteeing freedom from tyranny, it’s a bureaucrats dream.
I hope Great Britain truly pays attention before it surrenders its sovereignty to the EU.
I read one description of this EU Constitution that said it all. In short, you can place a small pamphlet containing the American Constitution in your back pocket. Try this with the EU Constitution and you will hurt yourself, as it is over 400 pages long.
It’s not a statement guaranteeing freedom from tyranny, it’s a bureaucrats dream.
I hope Great Britain truly pays attention before it surrenders its sovereignty to the EU.
Wednesday, March 02, 2005
Is this guy a “mainstream” Democrat?
What is wrong with these people?
He calls for the electrocution of two Republicans - over voting rights. Amazing.
America is appalled when its listens to or reads about Islamic fascist edicts such as this.
Where’s the left wing outrage over the hate speech from this guy, Stephen Crockett, of Democratic Talk Radio?
His site says he is the co-host. I'm sure he's charming, just like the guy the cops just arrested in Wichita.
What are the odds that he is also a Dean fan (Crockett, not the guy in Wichita)? Another good and evil kind of spokesman.
I guess this is all part of the Hillary plot to appear as a moderate Democrat. With political advocates like Crockett in the looney left, how can she fail?
He calls for the electrocution of two Republicans - over voting rights. Amazing.
America is appalled when its listens to or reads about Islamic fascist edicts such as this.
Where’s the left wing outrage over the hate speech from this guy, Stephen Crockett, of Democratic Talk Radio?
His site says he is the co-host. I'm sure he's charming, just like the guy the cops just arrested in Wichita.
What are the odds that he is also a Dean fan (Crockett, not the guy in Wichita)? Another good and evil kind of spokesman.
I guess this is all part of the Hillary plot to appear as a moderate Democrat. With political advocates like Crockett in the looney left, how can she fail?
We should have done something in 1994
In my younger days, I opposed the use of American power for operations like preventing genocide in Rwanda and Serbia. I was wrong.
The United States has an obligation to use its financial, diplomatic, military, and moral power to prevent genocide. No one else has the power to do so in this world. We know the EU doesn't and won't. Russia - ha. China - c'mon.
Clinton failed miserably as a President during this crisis in 1994. He's admitted it.
I don't want America to do the same thing in a few years over the Sudan.
I'll blog later this week on what we are not doing in the Sudan.
Will my left wing friends lobby for intervention there?
The United States has an obligation to use its financial, diplomatic, military, and moral power to prevent genocide. No one else has the power to do so in this world. We know the EU doesn't and won't. Russia - ha. China - c'mon.
Clinton failed miserably as a President during this crisis in 1994. He's admitted it.
I don't want America to do the same thing in a few years over the Sudan.
I'll blog later this week on what we are not doing in the Sudan.
Will my left wing friends lobby for intervention there?
The EU won’t oppose civilian use of nuclear power by Iran
But we are still allies, right?
Next thing you know, the EU will want to sell high tech weapons to China. Wait, a minute…..
Next thing you know, the EU will want to sell high tech weapons to China. Wait, a minute…..
This guy is creepy, his exhibits are creepy, and….
Favorite Daughter and I saw his exhibition of plasticized corpses a few years ago in Mannheim. While the exhibit fascinated us from a technical and scientific viewpoint, it still concerned me about the use of human bodies in such "interesting" displays.
Now, the Corpse Meister wants to build a new complex in Poland.
Now, the Corpse Meister wants to build a new complex in Poland.
I'll let Best of the Web take it from here.
"Art Imitates Death" Controversial German artist Gunther von Hagens, known for his displays of preserved human corpses stripped of skin, wants to build a factory in Poland to mass-produce his art," Reuters reports from Warsaw.
Uh, didn't a "controversial German artist" already do that more than 60 years ago?"
(hat tip to James Taranto at Best of the Web)
Update - 5 March
Der Speigel has more on this story.
I would love to sit in their history classes
Jeez. More left wing gibberish from Germans. This young man who wrote to the mediendkritik participated in a pro-American demonstration in Mainz the day of President Bush’s visit. His email below indicates that some older Germans were not very happy with him:
"I was in a store with the same jacket on that I wore to the demonstration when two older individuals (both around 60) approached me and asked whether it was me that had appeared on television coverage of the rally.
I acknowledged skeptically and then they went off: How could I, hopefully a healthy human being, support such a Fascist who simply killed so many thousands of people. They said I should be ashamed because of that and shouldn't have spoken on television. They then further compared Bush with Hitler (as is so often the case in Germany) and identified themselves as teachers. They said, and I quote: "You are really a Nazi, Bush is just as bad as Hitler if not worse, and believe me, my wife and I know that, we are both History teachers."
And they are history teachers. Tragic. What other kind of left wing garbage are they spewing to young Germans? Hey, maybe these two are qualified to be American university instructors? They have the political credentials.
"I was in a store with the same jacket on that I wore to the demonstration when two older individuals (both around 60) approached me and asked whether it was me that had appeared on television coverage of the rally.
I acknowledged skeptically and then they went off: How could I, hopefully a healthy human being, support such a Fascist who simply killed so many thousands of people. They said I should be ashamed because of that and shouldn't have spoken on television. They then further compared Bush with Hitler (as is so often the case in Germany) and identified themselves as teachers. They said, and I quote: "You are really a Nazi, Bush is just as bad as Hitler if not worse, and believe me, my wife and I know that, we are both History teachers."
And they are history teachers. Tragic. What other kind of left wing garbage are they spewing to young Germans? Hey, maybe these two are qualified to be American university instructors? They have the political credentials.
Tuesday, March 01, 2005
Dean is wrong again. Is he fit to do this job?
"This is a struggle of good and evil. And we're the good."
Well, no you’re not, but more on that later.
Remember how, a few years ago, the left wingers screamed when President Reagan said that the Soviet Union was an “evil empire”?
Remember how the left wingers screamed when President Bush called Iran, Iraq, and North Korea the “axis of evil”?
Anguished left wing cries about judgment, arrogance, etc, etc, etc, were just some of the catcalls used, because, you see, talking about evil represents a moral judgment, and left wingers cannot stand for anyone to make moral judgments, as they represent an artificial construct.
Yet, here’s ol' Deano screaming about “good and evil”. Where’s the left wing outrage over his implying immorality, of his assigning judgments to the actions of one group or the other? Of his use of the term “evil”?
A few points about ol' Deano’s comments 1) Dean’s chairmanship could very well be quite a boon for the Republicans 2) His maturity and judgment are seriously flawed and 3) If this next election campaign, or any contest between the Republicans and Democrats, is about “good and evil”, then Dean is not fit to be the chairman of an American political party.
You cannot govern America if you believe that 51% of the voters, people who probably have, and are allowed to have, disagreements with you, are EVIL! How do you compromise with EVIL? You don’t, and therefore, how can you govern America? You can’t!
But you know what Howard? Please keep talking. If you keep talking like this, soon the nation will think that you and Ward Churchill have a lot in common. That’s the track you are on my friend. That will only help the Republicans. Is that your objective?
Otherwise, tone it down and let’s assume that your opponents may actually have a right to disagree with you and live in America.
Jeez, why do I have to explain that to this guy?
Well, no you’re not, but more on that later.
Remember how, a few years ago, the left wingers screamed when President Reagan said that the Soviet Union was an “evil empire”?
Remember how the left wingers screamed when President Bush called Iran, Iraq, and North Korea the “axis of evil”?
Anguished left wing cries about judgment, arrogance, etc, etc, etc, were just some of the catcalls used, because, you see, talking about evil represents a moral judgment, and left wingers cannot stand for anyone to make moral judgments, as they represent an artificial construct.
Yet, here’s ol' Deano screaming about “good and evil”. Where’s the left wing outrage over his implying immorality, of his assigning judgments to the actions of one group or the other? Of his use of the term “evil”?
A few points about ol' Deano’s comments 1) Dean’s chairmanship could very well be quite a boon for the Republicans 2) His maturity and judgment are seriously flawed and 3) If this next election campaign, or any contest between the Republicans and Democrats, is about “good and evil”, then Dean is not fit to be the chairman of an American political party.
You cannot govern America if you believe that 51% of the voters, people who probably have, and are allowed to have, disagreements with you, are EVIL! How do you compromise with EVIL? You don’t, and therefore, how can you govern America? You can’t!
But you know what Howard? Please keep talking. If you keep talking like this, soon the nation will think that you and Ward Churchill have a lot in common. That’s the track you are on my friend. That will only help the Republicans. Is that your objective?
Otherwise, tone it down and let’s assume that your opponents may actually have a right to disagree with you and live in America.
Jeez, why do I have to explain that to this guy?
Germany’s unemployment rate – highest since the 1930’s
12.6%
Not sure how Herr Schroeder can blame this on the Americans, but I’ll bet he tries.
I hope Germany can determine how to energize its economy. Not sure the bureaucrats here understand the methods required to stimulate growth, create jobs, and encourage investment. That would require study of American business, and unfortunately, it seems the EU only wants to regulate, not stimulate.
Tell me again why the U.S. should be concerned about the long term power of the EU?
Not sure how Herr Schroeder can blame this on the Americans, but I’ll bet he tries.
I hope Germany can determine how to energize its economy. Not sure the bureaucrats here understand the methods required to stimulate growth, create jobs, and encourage investment. That would require study of American business, and unfortunately, it seems the EU only wants to regulate, not stimulate.
Tell me again why the U.S. should be concerned about the long term power of the EU?
The totalitarian Arab world is coming apart
“The Arabs' Berlin Wall has crumbled.” Mark Steyn’s excellent column highlights the turmoil in Egypt, Syria, Lebanon, and Saudi Arabia.
Iran, are you listening?
How much of the credit will go to the United States?
We know the EU deserves little credit, but you know what they say about success.
Where are all the left wingers who said Arabs weren’t interested in democracy, or couldn’t develop democratic states? Remember that racist claptrap before the Iraqi campaign? Now the left wingers are all worried about Social Security. Amazing how left wingers shift focus so easily.
Iran, are you listening?
How much of the credit will go to the United States?
We know the EU deserves little credit, but you know what they say about success.
Where are all the left wingers who said Arabs weren’t interested in democracy, or couldn’t develop democratic states? Remember that racist claptrap before the Iraqi campaign? Now the left wingers are all worried about Social Security. Amazing how left wingers shift focus so easily.
