Saturday, April 30, 2005
Good to be home
Been gone for a few days. I’m back. Blog-o-rama follows.
Wow, the lefties have been going strong lately, haven’t they?
That's ok. I'm back to help you track their left wing insanity. Now, feeling better?
Wow, the lefties have been going strong lately, haven’t they?
That's ok. I'm back to help you track their left wing insanity. Now, feeling better?
Favorite Daughter has completed freshman year
And we are very proud of her. While doing so, she managed to maintain her scholarships and win a follow-on continuing education scholarship from a local organization.
Of course, we have to pay taxes on the non-tuition use of any scholarships. The good news is, we have scholarships to pay taxes on, and I'm not complaining.
How could this be, his left wing friends and relatives ask? A Republican not complaining about taxes?
Great year Favorite Daughter, we know it was a unique experience and we are proud that you have weathered the various storms. Now, about that job.....
Of course, we have to pay taxes on the non-tuition use of any scholarships. The good news is, we have scholarships to pay taxes on, and I'm not complaining.
How could this be, his left wing friends and relatives ask? A Republican not complaining about taxes?
Great year Favorite Daughter, we know it was a unique experience and we are proud that you have weathered the various storms. Now, about that job.....
More incredibly anti-American comments by a left wing German politician
Left wing intolerance and extremism, chapter 4,231.
“A top member of the German Green party - Antje Vollmer” apparently believes the U.S. government developed the scandal over pedophile priests to embarrass the late Pope John Paul II over his opposition to the war of liberation in Iraq.
Now, if they say things like that in public, can you imagine what the left wing politicians in Germany say in private?
“A top member of the German Green party - Antje Vollmer” apparently believes the U.S. government developed the scandal over pedophile priests to embarrass the late Pope John Paul II over his opposition to the war of liberation in Iraq.
Now, if they say things like that in public, can you imagine what the left wing politicians in Germany say in private?
Hey Brits – vote for Blair
Get out there and vote for Labor so Tony Blair stays in power.
I know, I can’t believe I’m rooting for Labor. But I’m not really rooting for Labor; I’m rooting for Blair, and primarily because he understands the war against terror and Islamic fascism.
So, get out there and vote. Take a short break from buying up Florida.
How should France vote on the EU referendum?
No – but, of course.
This issue of French negativity towards the EU constitution confounds the elitists and aristocrats who wrote this document and who support the loss of democracy enshrined in this constitution.
Bottom line, if guys like Chirac are for it, something must be wrong with it.
Even the French press think Chirac botched his attempt to spread fear about the supposed catastrophe which will result from a “no” vote.
A growing number of Europeans have concerns about the EU constitution, as well they should.
"It is the dictatorship of the technocrats in Brussels. Everything we currently decide in the French parliament will now be dictated to us from outside France. The individual nation states will have no power to block anything.”
Just so you know its not just me, read this.
Finally, with a hattip to Andrew Sullivan, this great comment from Anatole Kaletsky in the Times of London
‘The alternatives offered to the people of France are not between the idealistic European multiculturalism of the 21st century and the xenophobic nationalism of the 19th. Rather they face a choice between two approaches: on one hand the liberal ideology of free markets and small governments that seems to be sweeping the world after its relaunch in Britain and America in the 1980s. The alternative is the 1970s belief that a centralised, protectionist and bureaucratically managed state could gradually be extended to the whole of Europe, preserving and enhancing the traditions of Gaullism in its glory days, when Chirac and Giscard were rising to power.’
Ankle Biting Pundits disagrees and believes an EU failure is not in America’s best interests.
This issue of French negativity towards the EU constitution confounds the elitists and aristocrats who wrote this document and who support the loss of democracy enshrined in this constitution.
Bottom line, if guys like Chirac are for it, something must be wrong with it.
Even the French press think Chirac botched his attempt to spread fear about the supposed catastrophe which will result from a “no” vote.
A growing number of Europeans have concerns about the EU constitution, as well they should.
"It is the dictatorship of the technocrats in Brussels. Everything we currently decide in the French parliament will now be dictated to us from outside France. The individual nation states will have no power to block anything.”
Just so you know its not just me, read this.
Finally, with a hattip to Andrew Sullivan, this great comment from Anatole Kaletsky in the Times of London
‘The alternatives offered to the people of France are not between the idealistic European multiculturalism of the 21st century and the xenophobic nationalism of the 19th. Rather they face a choice between two approaches: on one hand the liberal ideology of free markets and small governments that seems to be sweeping the world after its relaunch in Britain and America in the 1980s. The alternative is the 1970s belief that a centralised, protectionist and bureaucratically managed state could gradually be extended to the whole of Europe, preserving and enhancing the traditions of Gaullism in its glory days, when Chirac and Giscard were rising to power.’
Ankle Biting Pundits disagrees and believes an EU failure is not in America’s best interests.
Speaking of left wing intolerance
Yet another example of the left wing’s inability to debate tough issues in a civil fashion. Free speech is only allowed when you agree with the left.
This time, the left wing attempted to suppress civil discourse at UT-Austin.
A colleague of mine says that the Republicans demonize the opposition instead of debating the issues. If so, Republicans were simply taking notes on how the Democrats and left wing extremists operated on a daily basis, then and now.
This time, the left wing attempted to suppress civil discourse at UT-Austin.
A colleague of mine says that the Republicans demonize the opposition instead of debating the issues. If so, Republicans were simply taking notes on how the Democrats and left wing extremists operated on a daily basis, then and now.
Speaking of France – problems with racial issues
Yet another illustration that French society has any number of problems with race. A small, unreported race riot in Paris. Remember this the next time France lectures us about American racism and the inequality of life in America (and there will be a next time).
“FREDERIC ENCEL, PROFESSOR OF international relations at the prestigious Ecole Nationale d'Administration in Paris and a man not known for crying wolf, recently stated that France is becoming a new Lebanon. The implication, far-fetched though it may seem, was that civil upheaval might be no more than a few years off, sparked by growing ethnic and religious polarization. In recent weeks, a series of events has underlined this ominous trend.
On March 8, tens of thousands of high school students marched through central Paris to protest education reforms announced by the government. Repeatedly, peaceful demonstrators were attacked by bands of black and Arab youths--about 1,000 in all, according to police estimates. The eyewitness accounts of victims, teachers, and most interestingly the attackers themselves gathered by the left-wing daily Le Monde confirm the motivation: racism.
Some of the attackers openly expressed their hatred of "little French people." One 18-year-old named Heikel, a dual citizen of France and Tunisia, was proud of his actions. He explained that he had joined in just to "beat people up," especially "little Frenchmen who look like victims." He added with a satisfied smile that he had "a pleasant memory" of repeatedly kicking a student, already defenseless on the ground.”
“FREDERIC ENCEL, PROFESSOR OF international relations at the prestigious Ecole Nationale d'Administration in Paris and a man not known for crying wolf, recently stated that France is becoming a new Lebanon. The implication, far-fetched though it may seem, was that civil upheaval might be no more than a few years off, sparked by growing ethnic and religious polarization. In recent weeks, a series of events has underlined this ominous trend.
On March 8, tens of thousands of high school students marched through central Paris to protest education reforms announced by the government. Repeatedly, peaceful demonstrators were attacked by bands of black and Arab youths--about 1,000 in all, according to police estimates. The eyewitness accounts of victims, teachers, and most interestingly the attackers themselves gathered by the left-wing daily Le Monde confirm the motivation: racism.
Some of the attackers openly expressed their hatred of "little French people." One 18-year-old named Heikel, a dual citizen of France and Tunisia, was proud of his actions. He explained that he had joined in just to "beat people up," especially "little Frenchmen who look like victims." He added with a satisfied smile that he had "a pleasant memory" of repeatedly kicking a student, already defenseless on the ground.”
So, is Mapes angry that she got caught, or because she acted improperly and has not been forgiven?
Her book comes out in November. Favorite Grandma, please don’t buy it for me.
The Anchoress writes how Mapes expresses her anger at bloggers and how they have vilified her. Gosh, why would bloggers do that to anyone who was part of a long term effort to affect a political campaign with allegedly incorrect facts and documents.
As I’ve said before about media bias. We know you are biased. You know you are biased. What upsets everyone is that you won’t admit it. Jeez. How hard is this concept to understand? Quit barking about objectivity which you do not have and never have had.
The Anchoress writes how Mapes expresses her anger at bloggers and how they have vilified her. Gosh, why would bloggers do that to anyone who was part of a long term effort to affect a political campaign with allegedly incorrect facts and documents.
As I’ve said before about media bias. We know you are biased. You know you are biased. What upsets everyone is that you won’t admit it. Jeez. How hard is this concept to understand? Quit barking about objectivity which you do not have and never have had.
Kofi Annan is at it again
Now he claims the British and American share the blame for the oil for food debacle presided over by Annan’s UN team.
How soon can John Bolton get to New York?
How soon can John Bolton get to New York?
Sunday, April 17, 2005
Bedrock Guy will be busy for a few days
Blogging by Bedrock Guy will be light for the next 12 days as I have a few tasks which require my attention and which will probably preclude my presence here. I might be able to blog but am not sure right now.
Contrary to all previous announcements, I am not the designated tie-breaker for the election of the new Pope and will not be at the Vatican.
Please continue reading below, as I have written today about a few items.
Contrary to all previous announcements, I am not the designated tie-breaker for the election of the new Pope and will not be at the Vatican.
Please continue reading below, as I have written today about a few items.
Blogging as a hobby
I’ve now had three Favorite Brother’s in Law comment on the supposed negativity and lack of diverse opinions on MY blog. Given that these comments came from gentlemen whom I admire, a few comments from me are in order.
This is one of my hobbies. It is not intended to provide, on a daily, recurring, or even periodic basis, multiple points of view. To provide other opinions on the variety of topics about which I write would be time prohibitive. Here I provide my opinion and occasionally the written opinions of others. If you want additional viewpoints from the other side of the hill, click away. I relish any comments provided by my readers. Thus far, I have a pretty fair record of responding to conflicting opinions within the comments section.
I am more than willing, time allowing, to debate the great issues of the day concerning politics and culture. Time allowing. I try to read a variety of opinions on a variety of sites. I view left wing sites every day to see what they have to say. If you read this blog on a recurring basis, you will note that I have criticized the President, the House Republicans, and others of my political viewpoint.
I truly believe that left wing groups and individuals in America work very hard to suppress moderate and conservative opinion in this nation. Since I believe that, I will continue to blog in order to discuss those left wing efforts and other political, diplomatic, and social issues in which I am interested. I welcome your advice and your comments. Thanks for reading Bedrock Guy.
This is one of my hobbies. It is not intended to provide, on a daily, recurring, or even periodic basis, multiple points of view. To provide other opinions on the variety of topics about which I write would be time prohibitive. Here I provide my opinion and occasionally the written opinions of others. If you want additional viewpoints from the other side of the hill, click away. I relish any comments provided by my readers. Thus far, I have a pretty fair record of responding to conflicting opinions within the comments section.
I am more than willing, time allowing, to debate the great issues of the day concerning politics and culture. Time allowing. I try to read a variety of opinions on a variety of sites. I view left wing sites every day to see what they have to say. If you read this blog on a recurring basis, you will note that I have criticized the President, the House Republicans, and others of my political viewpoint.
I truly believe that left wing groups and individuals in America work very hard to suppress moderate and conservative opinion in this nation. Since I believe that, I will continue to blog in order to discuss those left wing efforts and other political, diplomatic, and social issues in which I am interested. I welcome your advice and your comments. Thanks for reading Bedrock Guy.
My all time favorite highway reststop name
On the Florida Turnpike. Okahumpka, “…where the wind comes sweepin down the plain…”
The Red Chinese need to be shown that this works both ways
Interesting situation developing in China with violent anti-Japanese riots and boycotts. Now, for all you fans of Red China, please review their public comments the last few weeks over Taiwan, and now Japan.
Imagine the impact of a boycott against Red China. Wouldn’t that be interesting?
Imagine the impact of a boycott against Red China. Wouldn’t that be interesting?
I think they were all on my airplane this weekend
US Airways had no other logical reason to have delayed both flights in gorgeous weather during a non-peak season weekend. But they did. The delays must have been due to this group of people reported in Drudge.
Saturday, April 16, 2005
Thank you for your notes for Favorite Daughter
We truly appreciate your support and your thoughts for the families of Alena Violette and Amber Jones, two young women who were killed last Saturday night on Interstate 10 while returning to college. This Friday and Saturday, 15 and 16 April, will be difficult for Favorite Daughter as she and many of her friends travel south to Lake Wales, Florida, for the funerals of Alena and Amber.
Last night, Favorite Daughter and her friends conducted a memorial service for the Alena and Amber. She reported that it was a great ceremony, well attended by the students, and a fitting tribute to these two Scottish dancing fans.
Last night, Favorite Daughter and her friends conducted a memorial service for the Alena and Amber. She reported that it was a great ceremony, well attended by the students, and a fitting tribute to these two Scottish dancing fans.
What is the problem with home repair contractors in Florida?
Another amazing performance this week as we worked with a number of different repair contractors at our house. What is it with these guys?
How hard is it to:
1) show up when you said you would?
2) bring all the materials and equipment you need for a job you said you were ready to do?
3) work until 1700 on the job instead of 1500?
4) cleanup after yourself instead of being reminded that its part of your responsibility before you leave the worksite?
5) treat my house with respect instead of some factory construction site?
6) keep track of all the little stuff that needs to be done instead of being reminded several times at crucial periods of the need to prioritize various tasks, because, you know, like, you might have to do one task now in order to ensure a larger task can be done later.
I’m just curious. Are there ANY home repair contractors in Florida who do good work, are reliable, and can get a job done to standard?
After three years, I’m still looking.
Based on the past three years, I’m going to become quite the do-it-yourself type.
How hard is it to:
1) show up when you said you would?
2) bring all the materials and equipment you need for a job you said you were ready to do?
3) work until 1700 on the job instead of 1500?
4) cleanup after yourself instead of being reminded that its part of your responsibility before you leave the worksite?
5) treat my house with respect instead of some factory construction site?
6) keep track of all the little stuff that needs to be done instead of being reminded several times at crucial periods of the need to prioritize various tasks, because, you know, like, you might have to do one task now in order to ensure a larger task can be done later.
I’m just curious. Are there ANY home repair contractors in Florida who do good work, are reliable, and can get a job done to standard?
After three years, I’m still looking.
Based on the past three years, I’m going to become quite the do-it-yourself type.
Thursday, April 14, 2005
The Wall Street Journal disappoints me over Sandy Berger
Its defense of Sandy Berger concerning his conviction for the mishandling and theft of classified documents disappoints me and makes me question its commitment to national security. Then again, their editorial page also defended Eason Jordan when he accused the military of targeting journalists.
The Washington Times sums up the entire affair and the slap on the wrist which Berger received for his crimes. Disgusting.
“… Sandy Berger stole some of the nation's most highly classified terrorism documents from the National Archives. He scissored them to pieces in his downtown Washington offices. Then he lied about it. Mr. Berger's lenient plea bargain with the Justice Department fines him an amount he can shake from the couches at his Stonebridge International LLC offices and promises his security clearances will be restored in time for Election 2008.
It's hard to underestimate the effect a case like this has on national-security professionals. For cynics, it shows that big players get off easy when they commit the crimes smaller fry lose their careers over. Meanwhile, spies, policy-makers and other handlers of secrets are effectively being told their efforts aren't taken seriously. It's a classic Washington double standard.”
The next time you hear a federal prosecutor and the Justice Department talk about their emphasis on national security, remember what Berger did and how he literally skated.
The only positive note may be that when President Hillary nominates Berger for some high level job, this will result in his actions again receiving public scrutiny or perhaps preclude him from being nominated at all.
On the other hand, forget that last part. Hillary will nominate Berger for something, because if we learned nothing else about the Clintons and their allies, it is that they lack any sense of shame whatsoever.
As I said before, if you or I had done something like this, we’d be in jail right now.
Berger, heck, he’s cruising.
The Washington Times sums up the entire affair and the slap on the wrist which Berger received for his crimes. Disgusting.
“… Sandy Berger stole some of the nation's most highly classified terrorism documents from the National Archives. He scissored them to pieces in his downtown Washington offices. Then he lied about it. Mr. Berger's lenient plea bargain with the Justice Department fines him an amount he can shake from the couches at his Stonebridge International LLC offices and promises his security clearances will be restored in time for Election 2008.
It's hard to underestimate the effect a case like this has on national-security professionals. For cynics, it shows that big players get off easy when they commit the crimes smaller fry lose their careers over. Meanwhile, spies, policy-makers and other handlers of secrets are effectively being told their efforts aren't taken seriously. It's a classic Washington double standard.”
The next time you hear a federal prosecutor and the Justice Department talk about their emphasis on national security, remember what Berger did and how he literally skated.
The only positive note may be that when President Hillary nominates Berger for some high level job, this will result in his actions again receiving public scrutiny or perhaps preclude him from being nominated at all.
On the other hand, forget that last part. Hillary will nominate Berger for something, because if we learned nothing else about the Clintons and their allies, it is that they lack any sense of shame whatsoever.
As I said before, if you or I had done something like this, we’d be in jail right now.
Berger, heck, he’s cruising.
What is it about this article that concerns me?
Let’s start with this:
‘Although Ruiz is not the highest-ranking soldier in the unit, his command over the 4th Platoon is absolute. Last fall, commanders transferred a platoon leader just 48 hours after he tangled with Ruiz.
When another young platoon leader, Lt. Colin Keating, 23, of Clinton, Md., arrived Feb. 6, Ruiz greeted him warmly and introduced him to every soldier in the platoon, but told him: "Just let me fight my war."
It is a war that Ruiz said reminds him of his youth as a member of the Coney Island Cobras, a Brooklyn street gang. He said he applies many of the principles he learned in the rough neighborhoods where he grew up: Bay Ridge and, later, the projects in Caguas, Puerto Rico, where he moved with his mother as a teenager. ‘
The rest of the article confirms SFC Ruiz’s battlefield savvy, warrior mentality, and effectiveness. Good to go on that.
But, I’d like to know more about the Platoon Leader who was removed because he “tangled with Ruiz” and how this battalion commander and company commander monitor SFC Ruiz’s engagements and unit operations.
Ruiz has a responsibility to train his platoon leader, who ultimately is the leader of that organization. Ruiz’s war should be the Platoon Leader’s war, not the other way around.
‘Although Ruiz is not the highest-ranking soldier in the unit, his command over the 4th Platoon is absolute. Last fall, commanders transferred a platoon leader just 48 hours after he tangled with Ruiz.
When another young platoon leader, Lt. Colin Keating, 23, of Clinton, Md., arrived Feb. 6, Ruiz greeted him warmly and introduced him to every soldier in the platoon, but told him: "Just let me fight my war."
It is a war that Ruiz said reminds him of his youth as a member of the Coney Island Cobras, a Brooklyn street gang. He said he applies many of the principles he learned in the rough neighborhoods where he grew up: Bay Ridge and, later, the projects in Caguas, Puerto Rico, where he moved with his mother as a teenager. ‘
The rest of the article confirms SFC Ruiz’s battlefield savvy, warrior mentality, and effectiveness. Good to go on that.
But, I’d like to know more about the Platoon Leader who was removed because he “tangled with Ruiz” and how this battalion commander and company commander monitor SFC Ruiz’s engagements and unit operations.
Ruiz has a responsibility to train his platoon leader, who ultimately is the leader of that organization. Ruiz’s war should be the Platoon Leader’s war, not the other way around.
Nice civilized behavior by Europeans
Every time I hear about a European critiquing American culture and our problems with violence, I always think about the European soccer problem.
Violence seems to be the norm. Who are these people to ever criticize our culture?
Violence seems to be the norm. Who are these people to ever criticize our culture?
Let's hope we have a crisis!
People of France! Vote "NO" on the EU.
If Chirac supports this measure, it must be against the best interests of the people of France and Europe.
Take charge of your country and your liberty. Vote against the EU. Vote against Chirac.
If Chirac supports this measure, it must be against the best interests of the people of France and Europe.
Take charge of your country and your liberty. Vote against the EU. Vote against Chirac.
Wednesday, April 13, 2005
Blogging from Favorite Daughter's Dorm Room
Spending the evening with Favorite Daughter and am writing this on her laptop from her dorm room. Interesting place. Favorite Wife and I are enjoying the chance to meet roommates, friends, and future roommates all the while daring Public Safety to tow my improperly parked rental car
We've enjoyed the chance to see her again given the circumstances. We drove up today, passing by the location on I-10 where her two friends died on Saturday night. Fresh skid marks, tire ruts in the dirt, and a huge scar on a tree marked where Alena and Amber died. We've been thinking about that since that horrible phone call early Sunday morning.
Favorite Wife and I took her shopping tonight so she could find dresses to wear for the viewing on Friday and the funeral on Saturday. Not exactly the kind of shopping I like to take Favorite Daughter to, but it went better than I had imagined it would.
We've enjoyed the chance to see her again given the circumstances. We drove up today, passing by the location on I-10 where her two friends died on Saturday night. Fresh skid marks, tire ruts in the dirt, and a huge scar on a tree marked where Alena and Amber died. We've been thinking about that since that horrible phone call early Sunday morning.
Favorite Wife and I took her shopping tonight so she could find dresses to wear for the viewing on Friday and the funeral on Saturday. Not exactly the kind of shopping I like to take Favorite Daughter to, but it went better than I had imagined it would.
Tuesday, April 12, 2005
Years of left wing management leads to situation such as this
Layoffs and budget problems at the U.S. Civil Rights Commission have been preceeded by years of mismanagement and partisan bias by the previous Democrat leaders of this Commission.
This organization lost the moral high ground years ago as the extremist chair and her team operated in a biased, non-partisan manner. Given the potential of this Commission, and the light it can focus on real problems of race and gender, its a shame that the former Democratic leaders and members nearly wrecked it.
"But conservatives in Congress and on the commission blame former chairman Mary Frances Berry for financial mismanagement over 10 years."
Now, the left wing will of course claim that the racist Republicans caused this problem, but, even a cursory reading of the articles(in a variety of sources) from the recent past disproves any such claim.
This organization lost the moral high ground years ago as the extremist chair and her team operated in a biased, non-partisan manner. Given the potential of this Commission, and the light it can focus on real problems of race and gender, its a shame that the former Democratic leaders and members nearly wrecked it.
"But conservatives in Congress and on the commission blame former chairman Mary Frances Berry for financial mismanagement over 10 years."
Now, the left wing will of course claim that the racist Republicans caused this problem, but, even a cursory reading of the articles(in a variety of sources) from the recent past disproves any such claim.
I wouldn't have let Jimmy Carter on my airplane
Not after all the garbage he has thrown at President Bush the last several years. There comes a point when one must say, "enough."
I wondered if there was more to his non-attendance at the Pope's funeral when the media announced that Carter would not be flying to Rome. Seems that a misunderstanding has occurred. Oh well.
Time to send Jimmy off to yet another Third World nation so that he can certify the results of yet another fraudulent election. Five bucks he goes to Nicaraugua in the near future to see our old friend Ortega.
I wondered if there was more to his non-attendance at the Pope's funeral when the media announced that Carter would not be flying to Rome. Seems that a misunderstanding has occurred. Oh well.
Time to send Jimmy off to yet another Third World nation so that he can certify the results of yet another fraudulent election. Five bucks he goes to Nicaraugua in the near future to see our old friend Ortega.
More liberal media bias - this time in Canada
Apparently something is brewing up North, or east based on where I live.
The Canadian Courts and government seem to be trying to suppress the release of testimony very damaging to the Liberal government.
Looks like the left wing media in Canada, very beholden to the left wing politicians, is assisting in the information suppression campaign.
The Canadian Courts and government seem to be trying to suppress the release of testimony very damaging to the Liberal government.
Looks like the left wing media in Canada, very beholden to the left wing politicians, is assisting in the information suppression campaign.
Sunday, April 10, 2005
Favorite Daughter lost two friends on Saturday night
A horrible day for the families of two of Favorite Daughter's college friends.
At 0130 Sunday morning, Favorite Daughter received a phone call. On late Saturday night, two of her friends died in a car accident on I-10 returning from a Scottish dance performance in Tampa. The Highway Patrol told me that the car blew a tire, flipped, and went into the trees. Favorite Daughter was visiting us for the weekend and in fact had just met us at the airport several hours before the phone call.
One of the ladies with whom Favorite Daughter was very close lived right next door in their dorm. We often heard about her and we had a sense that when she was around, Favorite Daughter had overwatch protection. The other young woman lived across campus, but was a frequent visitor to Favorite Daughter’s floor and her close circle of friends.
Thus began a very painful night for the families of these two young freshman ladies. Whatever anguish we felt was trivial in comparison to the grief of these two families.
After Favorite Daughter contacted a number of friends, we decided there was little more to be done, and we all attempted to go back to sleep. A difficult proposition. My mind kept wandering to the two families, by now notified and trying to sort through the senseless nature of the evening. The realization that the car which crashed had just two Fridays prior delivered my daughter safely to her house and the realization that if we had not been visiting with Favorite Daughter this weekend, she might well have been in that car on Saturday night, scared me more than I have been scared in many years. The what ifs of the night plagued our sleep.
I’ve had to confront sudden death for many years. Red Cross messages arrive, in Europe, inevitably in the dark of night. I’ve told soldiers many times that a close relative has passed or been injured. Training accidents occur, and now, during the last four years, combat deaths. However, in my former profession such familiarity with death and personal tragedy came with the job, and we accepted it presence with a certain known wariness.
For Favorite Daughter and her friends today, this tragedy viciously ambushed them with its seeming randomness and senselessness. Two lively young women, returning from an interesting night of dance and song, killed because a piece of material failed and started a chain of events ending in their death. How one plans for that, or accepts it, I’ll never know.
Favorite Daughter and boyfriend drove back to college this afternoon. Watching her depart to linkup with her buddies to begin their own group mourning process anguished me and made me wish, more than ever, that I never get a phone call like this again.
May they rest in peace.
At 0130 Sunday morning, Favorite Daughter received a phone call. On late Saturday night, two of her friends died in a car accident on I-10 returning from a Scottish dance performance in Tampa. The Highway Patrol told me that the car blew a tire, flipped, and went into the trees. Favorite Daughter was visiting us for the weekend and in fact had just met us at the airport several hours before the phone call.
One of the ladies with whom Favorite Daughter was very close lived right next door in their dorm. We often heard about her and we had a sense that when she was around, Favorite Daughter had overwatch protection. The other young woman lived across campus, but was a frequent visitor to Favorite Daughter’s floor and her close circle of friends.
Thus began a very painful night for the families of these two young freshman ladies. Whatever anguish we felt was trivial in comparison to the grief of these two families.
After Favorite Daughter contacted a number of friends, we decided there was little more to be done, and we all attempted to go back to sleep. A difficult proposition. My mind kept wandering to the two families, by now notified and trying to sort through the senseless nature of the evening. The realization that the car which crashed had just two Fridays prior delivered my daughter safely to her house and the realization that if we had not been visiting with Favorite Daughter this weekend, she might well have been in that car on Saturday night, scared me more than I have been scared in many years. The what ifs of the night plagued our sleep.
I’ve had to confront sudden death for many years. Red Cross messages arrive, in Europe, inevitably in the dark of night. I’ve told soldiers many times that a close relative has passed or been injured. Training accidents occur, and now, during the last four years, combat deaths. However, in my former profession such familiarity with death and personal tragedy came with the job, and we accepted it presence with a certain known wariness.
For Favorite Daughter and her friends today, this tragedy viciously ambushed them with its seeming randomness and senselessness. Two lively young women, returning from an interesting night of dance and song, killed because a piece of material failed and started a chain of events ending in their death. How one plans for that, or accepts it, I’ll never know.
Favorite Daughter and boyfriend drove back to college this afternoon. Watching her depart to linkup with her buddies to begin their own group mourning process anguished me and made me wish, more than ever, that I never get a phone call like this again.
May they rest in peace.
Are CBS and other media organizations using terrorists on their news crews?
Seems that during a firefight in Iraq the other day, someone wounded a man with a video camera.
First reports indicated that he was a cameraman working for CBS news. Now it seems the story may be a bit more murky. Some pundits are investigating reports that this so called cameraman for CBS (gosh, CBS again) may be a terrorist who has engaged in operations against the American Army.
Belmont Club and Roger L. Simon review the issues.
Of course, the usual left wing suspects claim the American Army who should be investigated for engaging "journalists." You know, because Eason Jordan (formerly of CNN) may have said in front of his Davos buddies that we do this routinely in Iraq, it must be so.
Yes, by all means, let's investigate this, and during the investigation, let's examine the credentials and history of EVERY reporter working for a U.S., European, and Arab news agency.
Seems it may be a war crime to pose as a journalist while engaging in operations. So, left wingers, given your overwhelming concern about war crimes, I look forward to your hard hitting, left wing anti-American billionaire funded, in depth examinations of this alleged practice.
Let the investigations begin.
Final thought: And the main stream media continues to wail about why no one loves them or trusts them anymore. Amazing how that sitution could develop.
First reports indicated that he was a cameraman working for CBS news. Now it seems the story may be a bit more murky. Some pundits are investigating reports that this so called cameraman for CBS (gosh, CBS again) may be a terrorist who has engaged in operations against the American Army.
Belmont Club and Roger L. Simon review the issues.
Of course, the usual left wing suspects claim the American Army who should be investigated for engaging "journalists." You know, because Eason Jordan (formerly of CNN) may have said in front of his Davos buddies that we do this routinely in Iraq, it must be so.
Yes, by all means, let's investigate this, and during the investigation, let's examine the credentials and history of EVERY reporter working for a U.S., European, and Arab news agency.
Seems it may be a war crime to pose as a journalist while engaging in operations. So, left wingers, given your overwhelming concern about war crimes, I look forward to your hard hitting, left wing anti-American billionaire funded, in depth examinations of this alleged practice.
Let the investigations begin.
Final thought: And the main stream media continues to wail about why no one loves them or trusts them anymore. Amazing how that sitution could develop.
Friday, April 08, 2005
An American Hero – Sergeant First Class Paul Ray Smith
On Monday, 4 April, the President presented the Medal of Honor to the young son of SFC Paul Smith, who was killed in action on 4 April 2003.
From the Washington Times account. "President Bush yesterday awarded Army Sgt. 1st Class Paul Ray Smith the Medal of Honor, exactly two years after the soldier single-handedly killed as many as 50 Iraqi insurgents as he saved the lives of more than 100 Americans.
It was the 615th time in history that the medal was awarded posthumously.
Sgt. Smith's 11-year-old son accepted the medal in a White House ceremony. It was the first time the nation's highest award for valor has been bestowed on a soldier from the Iraq war, and only the third time it has been awarded since the Vietnam War.
On 4 April 2003, SFC Smith displayed great courage under fire while engaging a force of about 100 enemy troops which attacked his unit near Baghdad Airport. SFC Smith was killed while engaging a large enemy force which attacked his unit and his soldiers. His action undoubtedly ensured their survival and the eventual destruction of the enemy force."
The video of the 4 April White House Ceremony is here. The Army Chief of Chaplains, MG Hicks, gave the invocation. A great prayer. The President presented the medal to SFC Smith’s 11 year old son, David.
The Army web site is superb, and in addition to the video of the ceremony, it provides a detailed description of the engagement involving SFC Smith and his fellow soldiers. The chaos of a small unit action is clearly evident.
The citation.
"The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, March 3, 1863, has awarded in the name of Congress the Medal of Honor to Sergeant First Class Paul R. Smith, United States Army.
For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty: Sergeant First Class Paul R. Smith distinguished himself by acts of gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty in action with an armed enemy near Baghdad International Airport, Baghdad, Iraq on 4 April 2003. On that day, Sergeant First Class Smith was engaged in the construction of a prisoner of war holding area when his Task Force was violently attacked by a company-sized enemy force. Realizing the vulnerability of over 100 fellow soldiers, Sergeant First Class Smith quickly organized a hasty defense consisting of two platoons of soldiers, one Bradley Fighting Vehicle and three armored personnel carriers. As the fight developed, Sergeant First Class Smith braved hostile enemy fire to personally engage the enemy with hand grenades and anti-tank weapons, and organized the evacuation of three wounded soldiers from an armored personnel carrier struck by a rocket propelled grenade and a 60mm mortar round. Fearing the enemy would overrun their defenses, Sergeant First Class Smith moved under withering enemy fire to man a .50 caliber machine gun mounted on a damaged armored personnel carrier. In total disregard for his own life, he maintained his exposed position in order to engage the attacking enemy force. During this action, he was mortally wounded. His courageous actions helped defeat the enemy attack, and resulted in as many as 50 enemy soldiers killed, while allowing the safe withdrawal of numerous wounded soldiers. Sergeant First Class Smith’s extraordinary heroism and uncommon valor are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the Third Infantry Division “Rock of the Marne,” and the United States Army."
More on campus diversity among the faculty
Or the lack thereof.
Amazing how left wing academics and professors apply blinders to calls for more academic diversity on campus. Any attempt to engage them results in cleverly written little tomes like this.
Once again, a failure to accept one more facet of diversity because in this case, the call is for scholars who might actually disagree with the left wing views imposed on students and alumni by the left wing faculty.
Amazing how left wing academics and professors apply blinders to calls for more academic diversity on campus. Any attempt to engage them results in cleverly written little tomes like this.
Once again, a failure to accept one more facet of diversity because in this case, the call is for scholars who might actually disagree with the left wing views imposed on students and alumni by the left wing faculty.
Tuesday, April 05, 2005
The American Army captured Heidelberg on 30 March 1945
Last Wednesday, 30 March, the city hosted a ceremony in City Hall commemorating this event. A fellow blogger has written his comments about the capture of Heidelberg and the city's commemorative ceremony. Here’s what he had to say:
“On March 30, 1945 - Good Friday - the American Army entered Heidelberg. Sixty years later the mayor of Heidelberg held an event in the city hall that was ostensibly a German-American celebration of Heidelberg’s good fortune to fall under what one Heidelberg University professor called the most humane military occupation in world history. The evening’s speeches, however, were remarkable for what was not said. The German and American dignitaries who spoke were full of praise about past decades of German-American friendship but not one word was spoken about the future. There were two reasons for this: Iraq and the fact that most of the American military will be leaving Germany.
One journalist who arrived late was heard to complain to a colleague that he missed all the “laughable” speeches. And the university professor drew negative comparisons to the American Army’s occupation of post-war Germany with the current situation in Iraq. Apparently he hasn’t heard about the drastic drop in attacks on coalition forces, or the Iraqi national army’s success in capturing and killing terrorists, or Sunni attempts to join the newly forming government. But he has to rely on German media for his information so he must be excused. Sadly the lines have been drawn and the future of German-American relations looks much like the mayor of Heidelberg’s event. Germans will keep their anti-Americanism in check when in the company of Americans and make small talk about the good old days”.
“On March 30, 1945 - Good Friday - the American Army entered Heidelberg. Sixty years later the mayor of Heidelberg held an event in the city hall that was ostensibly a German-American celebration of Heidelberg’s good fortune to fall under what one Heidelberg University professor called the most humane military occupation in world history. The evening’s speeches, however, were remarkable for what was not said. The German and American dignitaries who spoke were full of praise about past decades of German-American friendship but not one word was spoken about the future. There were two reasons for this: Iraq and the fact that most of the American military will be leaving Germany.
One journalist who arrived late was heard to complain to a colleague that he missed all the “laughable” speeches. And the university professor drew negative comparisons to the American Army’s occupation of post-war Germany with the current situation in Iraq. Apparently he hasn’t heard about the drastic drop in attacks on coalition forces, or the Iraqi national army’s success in capturing and killing terrorists, or Sunni attempts to join the newly forming government. But he has to rely on German media for his information so he must be excused. Sadly the lines have been drawn and the future of German-American relations looks much like the mayor of Heidelberg’s event. Germans will keep their anti-Americanism in check when in the company of Americans and make small talk about the good old days”.
In the lobby of the city hall, the city has erected a very informative and fairly well balanced account of the capture of Heidelberg and subsequent historical reviews of the event, with numerous personal accounts.
Germans and historians are debating whether Germany was liberated or conquered in May 1945. I’ve been doing too much reading lately about the Nazi regime, it’s ascent to power, German anti-Semitism, and the occupation of captured European countries to debate that issue. I know the answer to that question.
In the end, DL and I were celebrating the success of soldiers from the U.S. 63d Infantry Division, who crossed the Neckar early on 30 March and captured Heidelberg, and the soldiers of the U.S. 44th Infantry Division, who were massed outside Heidelberg on the night of 29 March, and whose division’s leaders negotiated a peaceful surrender of Heidelberg.
And, sixty years later, there were the Americans, sitting in the Heidelberg City Hall, commemorating American victory over tyranny and a successful occupation of a conquered foe to whom we taught democratic values and human rights.
I’m not the only person worried that Red China will hit Taiwan
Instapundit has a pretty review of an apparent Red Chinese plan to attack Taiwan under the guise of an exercise.
Maybe it’s time to dust off the containment theory.
The U.S. must truly examine, even debate, what our actions will be when Red China attacks Taiwan. Because Red China will. Matter of time.
Maybe it’s time to dust off the containment theory.
The U.S. must truly examine, even debate, what our actions will be when Red China attacks Taiwan. Because Red China will. Matter of time.
French Whiners threaten to throw bombs
Jeez. Over wine prices.
Depressed French wine producers bomb Government offices.
"The wine growers in Languedoc - both the mainstream organisations and the unidentified radicals calling themselves Crav - are demanding that the €70m (£48m) in subsidies and special assistance for exports already promised by the French government be increased.
The whole of the lower and middle range of the French wine industry has been plunged into crisis in the past two years by a slump in domestic demand and the capture of markets in Britain and elsewhere by wines from Australia, Chile, Italy and the US.
Previous wine crises in France have mostly concerned the over production of low-grade red table wines. France, still the largest exporters of wines by value in the world, finds itself with surpluses of medium range red and white wines from regions such as Bordeaux and Burgundy.
Although there is widespread anger throughout the French wine industry, the most violent reactions have been in the vast vineyards of Languedoc-Roussillon, which extend along the southern coastal plain from Montpellier to the Spanish border.
Many Languedoc growers have made great efforts and investments, to improve the reputation of their wines in the past 20 years. They now find themselves in the same crisis of over-production and low prices as in the 1980s.
"The government had better respond clearly to our needs before the demonstration on 20 April," Denis Verdier, the president of the confederation of French wine cooperatives, said recently."
Hat tip to Little Green Footballs.
Depressed French wine producers bomb Government offices.
"The wine growers in Languedoc - both the mainstream organisations and the unidentified radicals calling themselves Crav - are demanding that the €70m (£48m) in subsidies and special assistance for exports already promised by the French government be increased.
The whole of the lower and middle range of the French wine industry has been plunged into crisis in the past two years by a slump in domestic demand and the capture of markets in Britain and elsewhere by wines from Australia, Chile, Italy and the US.
Previous wine crises in France have mostly concerned the over production of low-grade red table wines. France, still the largest exporters of wines by value in the world, finds itself with surpluses of medium range red and white wines from regions such as Bordeaux and Burgundy.
Although there is widespread anger throughout the French wine industry, the most violent reactions have been in the vast vineyards of Languedoc-Roussillon, which extend along the southern coastal plain from Montpellier to the Spanish border.
Many Languedoc growers have made great efforts and investments, to improve the reputation of their wines in the past 20 years. They now find themselves in the same crisis of over-production and low prices as in the 1980s.
"The government had better respond clearly to our needs before the demonstration on 20 April," Denis Verdier, the president of the confederation of French wine cooperatives, said recently."
Hat tip to Little Green Footballs.
Monday, April 04, 2005
I guess everyone in the Democratic Party hasn't signed up for Hillary in '08
How could this be? It's inevitable, isn't it?
Interesting article in the Sunday Times of London, "Southern revolt on the ascent of Hillary."
Most of the conversations probably begin with, "Just what the Democratic Party needs, another liberal from the northeast." To which the Hillary backers reply, "But's she not really from the northeast, she's from the South."
Well, no, she's not, and this early shot across her bow by some fellow Democrats is interesting, first, for the novelty of it thus far, but second, and more importantly, because it corresponds with a point I've made many times during the last few presidential campaigns, which is:
In a country as great as America, with the human talent she possesses in terms of intellect, personal integrity, managerial and leadership abililty, and compassion, how is it that the best we can do for presidential candidates seem to be people like Clinton, Gore, Kerry, and Bush? Surely we have better men and women than this to lead America.
Now, where the heck are they and what political system can we build to attract them?
I fear what the Republicans will offer in '08. The Dems can only move up, and some in their party do realize its disconnect from "mainstream" America.
"Bredesen, a former mayor of Nashville, believes his party has “somehow gotten itself divorced” from the blue-collar constituency it has always relied on for presidential success: “I’ve always felt the Democratic party was a kind of alliance between the academics and intellectuals and working-class men and women. I think what happened is that in my lifetime, the academics won.”
As a result, the governor said, the party had lost its broad appeal. He mocked other Democratic candidates who think connecting with middle America means quoting a few verses from the Bible or being photographed with guns""
And he should mock them. "Middle America" wants more than a few photo ops. Sincerity in your values counts for something, and in this day of the blogger, your insincerity will be found and exaggerated exponentially.
I hope some Republicans read this as well, given our party's potential to drift rightward.
Interesting article in the Sunday Times of London, "Southern revolt on the ascent of Hillary."
Most of the conversations probably begin with, "Just what the Democratic Party needs, another liberal from the northeast." To which the Hillary backers reply, "But's she not really from the northeast, she's from the South."
Well, no, she's not, and this early shot across her bow by some fellow Democrats is interesting, first, for the novelty of it thus far, but second, and more importantly, because it corresponds with a point I've made many times during the last few presidential campaigns, which is:
In a country as great as America, with the human talent she possesses in terms of intellect, personal integrity, managerial and leadership abililty, and compassion, how is it that the best we can do for presidential candidates seem to be people like Clinton, Gore, Kerry, and Bush? Surely we have better men and women than this to lead America.
Now, where the heck are they and what political system can we build to attract them?
I fear what the Republicans will offer in '08. The Dems can only move up, and some in their party do realize its disconnect from "mainstream" America.
"Bredesen, a former mayor of Nashville, believes his party has “somehow gotten itself divorced” from the blue-collar constituency it has always relied on for presidential success: “I’ve always felt the Democratic party was a kind of alliance between the academics and intellectuals and working-class men and women. I think what happened is that in my lifetime, the academics won.”
As a result, the governor said, the party had lost its broad appeal. He mocked other Democratic candidates who think connecting with middle America means quoting a few verses from the Bible or being photographed with guns""
And he should mock them. "Middle America" wants more than a few photo ops. Sincerity in your values counts for something, and in this day of the blogger, your insincerity will be found and exaggerated exponentially.
I hope some Republicans read this as well, given our party's potential to drift rightward.
Missing Favorite Daughter
Lovely day here today, capping three days of great weather since last Friday. Favorite Wife and I feel truly fortunate to live here. The Marktplatz was absolutely packed with people this weekend, all enjoying the weather and the sheer beauty of this town.
Walking back from the library at lunch, where I had to review information from yet one more book on yet one more campaign, I walked past Favorite Daughter's old elementary and high schools. I've been missing Favorite Daughter ever since I walked past her old schools.
Wow, where did that time go? When did she grow up? Seems like the other day that we were all standing next to the elementary school, participating in the Martian Lander competition and dropping our "spacecraft" from the 3d floor stairwell to see if the enclosed egg passenger would survive (ours did - still proud of that too).
Then, around the corner, where she used to attend the after school program. She habitually came home with great stories, and her care givers always impressed us with their enthusiam and attitude.
Yeah, ol' Dad is really missing that kid today. No particular reason, just because.
Walking back from the library at lunch, where I had to review information from yet one more book on yet one more campaign, I walked past Favorite Daughter's old elementary and high schools. I've been missing Favorite Daughter ever since I walked past her old schools.
Wow, where did that time go? When did she grow up? Seems like the other day that we were all standing next to the elementary school, participating in the Martian Lander competition and dropping our "spacecraft" from the 3d floor stairwell to see if the enclosed egg passenger would survive (ours did - still proud of that too).
Then, around the corner, where she used to attend the after school program. She habitually came home with great stories, and her care givers always impressed us with their enthusiam and attitude.
Yeah, ol' Dad is really missing that kid today. No particular reason, just because.
A note to the French people about the EU
Since you felt so compelled, along with the rest of your Old Europe teammates, to comment and pontificate about our recent presidential election, please extend to me the same courtesy concerning your forthcoming vote on the EU Constitution.
Vote Against It. You have a superb opportunity to let the elitists who own and run your country know how you feel. Take advantage of this chance. Crush the French government's attempt to subjugate your laws and nibble away at liberal democracy.
Vote Against It. You have a superb opportunity to let the elitists who own and run your country know how you feel. Take advantage of this chance. Crush the French government's attempt to subjugate your laws and nibble away at liberal democracy.
I know what he means, but he’s wrong about Taiwan
The situation with Taiwan does provide what seems like a
blank check to Taiwan from the U.S. but not one analogous to what Imperial Germany gave to Austria-Hungary in 1914.
blank check to Taiwan from the U.S. but not one analogous to what Imperial Germany gave to Austria-Hungary in 1914.
An interesting, well written piece, but one cannot compare providing overwatch from tyranny with allowing a dictatorship to crush a small country.
Saturday, April 02, 2005
John Paul II died tonight
May he rest in peace. I think I understand how many people felt when FDR died in 1945.
When hasn't John Paul been the Pope?
The Anchoress superbly tracked today's events and provides some fitting tributes.
A review of his life and work here, here, and here.
When hasn't John Paul been the Pope?
The Anchoress superbly tracked today's events and provides some fitting tributes.
A review of his life and work here, here, and here.
If you or I had done what Sandy Berger did...
...the following would have occurred:
The intel folks would have torn your house, office, and car apart looking for classified documents, with some help from their FBI buddies.
Your families would have been squeezed and harassed.
You’d still be in jail, not out on bail.
You’d have been overcharged by the prosecutors to ensure you would plead guilty to some felony.
You’d be ruined financially by legal costs. (Who is paying Berger's legal fees?)
So….what happened to Sandy Berger, Clinton’s National Security Advisor?
The intel folks would have torn your house, office, and car apart looking for classified documents, with some help from their FBI buddies.
Your families would have been squeezed and harassed.
You’d still be in jail, not out on bail.
You’d have been overcharged by the prosecutors to ensure you would plead guilty to some felony.
You’d be ruined financially by legal costs. (Who is paying Berger's legal fees?)
So….what happened to Sandy Berger, Clinton’s National Security Advisor?
A misdemeanor conviction. Not a felony charge.
He’s really, really, sorry. I’ll bet he is.
Oh yes, and if a Republican had done this instead of an MSM ally, a Democrat, well, we’d still be hearing about how he undermined national security, Archivegate, coverup, suicides in Rock Creek Park, legal documents in the Map Room (wait a minute, that was Whitewater, I digress).
Powerline has more.
When Berger was charged last summer, the usual collection of left wing suspects and fellow travelers charged that Berger was a victim of Republican politics and timing related to the election. Jeez.
Jim Geraghty wants to know:
"Now... what about this deafening silence that we have heard on this from Berger's associates, since this story first surfaced? Will we be seeing any criticism of him from former President Clinton, Madeline Albright, Hillary, John Kerry, or any other prominent Democrat? Is the perception that this is no big deal, standard operating procedure for that White House, and is something to be swept under the rug?
Do any Democrats want to confront the unpleasant truths of how the Clinton White House handled terrorism?"
Because there were some facts out there that were so damning, Sandy Berger was willing to break the law to make sure the public never saw them."
Day by Day seems to know how the judges came to their ridiculous decision.
The Pope is not some Communist Dictator in Eastern Europe
As I write this, Pope John Paul II is apparently slipping away from us. In the midst of this, a Washington Post writer is working hard to create the analogy of John Paul as some Tito-like strongman.
Frankel has written a ridiculous paragraph in today's Washington Post. I know what he meant to write, but what he wrote sounds barbaric, as if we are counting down the minutes till some Tito dies and the various ethnic factions launch a civil war.
"Because he has ruled for so long and with such an iron will, the death of John Paul is certain to have unpredictable consequences, unleashing forces and momentum that have been pent up for years and shaking an established order that faces a wide range of challenges to its authority and certitude."
Frankel has written a ridiculous paragraph in today's Washington Post. I know what he meant to write, but what he wrote sounds barbaric, as if we are counting down the minutes till some Tito dies and the various ethnic factions launch a civil war.
"Because he has ruled for so long and with such an iron will, the death of John Paul is certain to have unpredictable consequences, unleashing forces and momentum that have been pent up for years and shaking an established order that faces a wide range of challenges to its authority and certitude."
