There is a scandal brewing that most folks don't know about, because the MSM is "sitting" on the story. Why are they "sitting" on it? Because it involves a media organization that is of like mind as the majority of the MSM - i.e. extremely liberal. And what media organization would that be, you ask? Why the "darling" of the liberal media, Air America.
For details on this, go here, here, here, and here.
Now, if this was about Rush Limbaugh, or the guys at Powerline, don't you suppose that this would be front page - above the fold - news? Oh, you know it would be! But, because it's about a "darling" of the liberal press, the rest of the MSM is just "sitting" on it, hoping it will all blow over.
Note to the liberal MSM - guess again!
Sunday, August 07, 2005
Congress asked to probe ACLU
As reported here, Congress has been asked to probe the activities of the ACLU - the organization that hates America in general, and particularly Christians.
Congress should do more than just probe the ACLU, in my opinion. They should do whatever it takes to shut the ACLU down - permanently.
Congress should do more than just probe the ACLU, in my opinion. They should do whatever it takes to shut the ACLU down - permanently.
"Views" on "issues" vs. following the Constitution
In this opinion piece, Thomas Sowell weighs in on Senate questions regarding Judge Roberts' "views".
What is more important in considering a nominee for the highest court in the land? His "views" on certain "hot button issues", such as abortion, or whether he or she will follow established law and the Constitution (which, by the way, he or she will be sworn to defend and uphold).
I think you are all smart enough to figure that one out.
What is more important in considering a nominee for the highest court in the land? His "views" on certain "hot button issues", such as abortion, or whether he or she will follow established law and the Constitution (which, by the way, he or she will be sworn to defend and uphold).
I think you are all smart enough to figure that one out.
Blair gets it right, in getting tough
As reported here, Prime Minister Tony Blair, with Parliament backing him, is getting tough on extremists and hate mongers, by passing new laws, some of which take effect immediately. Of course, with the new laws, comes the hand wringing by the liberals, who say that these new laws are infringing on free speech, which will cause civilization as we know it to cease to exist.
Let me clue you in on something, folks. If we don't get tough on those pushing extremist views and hate mongers, and let them continue with spewing their vile bile, civilization as we know it will come to an end - and a most unpleasant end it would be.
Let me clue you in on something, folks. If we don't get tough on those pushing extremist views and hate mongers, and let them continue with spewing their vile bile, civilization as we know it will come to an end - and a most unpleasant end it would be.
Mayor proposes new fee on property developers
As reported here, Mayor Nichols has proposed a new fee on property developers to fund the creation of larger "green", and open, spaces in the city. Here are the pro's and con's of this proposal, as I see it.
The Pro's -
Pros are that possibly instead of the dinky little "green spaces" (that almost no one uses) developers are now required to provide on their property, this fund would go to larger "green spaces"; parks and open spaces are good.
The Con's -
Cons are that the fee could be from $1.00 to $2.00 per square foot of developed property, which may be cost prohibitive in some developers minds; if developers think this fee is too "onerous", they could leave the city, taking jobs and tax revenue with them. We need details to really determine if this is actually a good idea, or a "kill the goose that lays the golden egg" idea.
Stay tuned.
The Pro's -
Pros are that possibly instead of the dinky little "green spaces" (that almost no one uses) developers are now required to provide on their property, this fund would go to larger "green spaces"; parks and open spaces are good.
The Con's -
Cons are that the fee could be from $1.00 to $2.00 per square foot of developed property, which may be cost prohibitive in some developers minds; if developers think this fee is too "onerous", they could leave the city, taking jobs and tax revenue with them. We need details to really determine if this is actually a good idea, or a "kill the goose that lays the golden egg" idea.
Stay tuned.
Energy audit to be done in new Seattle City Hall Building
As reported here, due to the high energy usage in the new Seattle City Hall building, an energy audit will be done to determine why the new building uses more energy that the old building did. Part of the reason is the start up period of the new building, as the building systems were brought on line and tested, which always results in high initial energy use and, hence, costs. Over time, the costs should come down, if it is as efficient as the builders said it would be.
I previously posted about this here, and here, and I'm still amused at the surprise - borne of ignorance in this kind of situation - of the city officials.
I previously posted about this here, and here, and I'm still amused at the surprise - borne of ignorance in this kind of situation - of the city officials.
PCism run amok in the UK
As reported here, and here, cops in Bedfordshire must follow a strict list of rules before entering a residence owned by a Muslim. The first thing they must do is remove their shoes. Read both articles for the rest of the rules. If you're anything like me, you too will be shaking your head in disbelief at the stupidity of these requirements.
After the two recent terrorist attacks in London, you'd think that people would come to their senses, but apparently not. It's unfortunate that PCism has become global, as it is a scourge.
The question on my mind now is, are they going to not allow the cops to makes raids on suspected Muslim terrorist residences on Friday's?
After the two recent terrorist attacks in London, you'd think that people would come to their senses, but apparently not. It's unfortunate that PCism has become global, as it is a scourge.
The question on my mind now is, are they going to not allow the cops to makes raids on suspected Muslim terrorist residences on Friday's?
Sunday, July 31, 2005
Libertarian Party is at it again
As reported here, the Libertarian Party has moved to seize, via emminent domain, the 167 acre property of Supreme Court Justice Breyer, to turn it into a "Constitution Park", echoing efforts to seize Justice Souter's home for a hotel. Both Breyer and Souter voted to allow governments to seize private property through invoking emminent domain, for whatever reason.
Will either effort succeed? Only time will tell, but I'm finding this to be deliciously amusing.
Kudos to the Libertarian Party!
Will either effort succeed? Only time will tell, but I'm finding this to be deliciously amusing.
Kudos to the Libertarian Party!
Senate passes bill to protect gun manufacturers from frivoulous lawsuits
As reported here, the Senate passed a bill to protect gun manufacturers from frivoulous lawsuits; of course, Washington States Sen.'s Murray and "Can't-do-well" both voted against the bill - no surprise there. What this bill does is protect the manufacturers of a legal product from lawsuits over improper/illegal use of their product, putting the responsibility on the illegal/improper use of that product on those who perpetrate the crime. Now the House needs to get on board.
Folks, a gun is a tool, just like a hammer is a tool. It is neither "good" nor "evil". A hammer can be used to inflict injury or death upon an individual, but does anyone out there want a ban on, say, 12 pound sledge hammers just because those hammers can inflict extreme injury on someone? Of course not. Hammers, even 12 pound sledge hammers are merely tools, and when used properly are quite effective tools. However, when used improperly, they can cause injury or death, but is that the fault of the hammer? In a word, no. It is the fault/responsibility of the person using the hammer.
This principle also applies to guns, but liberals just don't get that.
Folks, a gun is a tool, just like a hammer is a tool. It is neither "good" nor "evil". A hammer can be used to inflict injury or death upon an individual, but does anyone out there want a ban on, say, 12 pound sledge hammers just because those hammers can inflict extreme injury on someone? Of course not. Hammers, even 12 pound sledge hammers are merely tools, and when used properly are quite effective tools. However, when used improperly, they can cause injury or death, but is that the fault of the hammer? In a word, no. It is the fault/responsibility of the person using the hammer.
This principle also applies to guns, but liberals just don't get that.
Convicted Terrorist Ressam gets 22 years
As reported here, convicted terrorist Ahmed Ressam will possibly spend a minimum of 14 (out of 22 years) in prison. Why only 14 years? He's getting credit for time served, plus there is a possibility that he may receive a drop for good behavior.
Ahmed Ressam is the terrorist who was caught back in 1999 with a bomb in the trunk of his rental car, which he planned on using at Los Angeles International Airport during the Millenium Celebrations.
Ahmed Ressam is also the terrorist who was cooperating with the FBI, until he learned that he was being referred to as ... a terrorist (gasp!), at which time he went into a major pout, and clammed up, saying he was offended by being called a terrorist. Now his Federal Public Defender, Tom Hillier, says that Ressam has renounced terrorism, and shouldn't be called that anymore because it hurts Ahmed's feelings. IF Ressam has indeed renounced terrorism, then he should be willing to continue to cooperate with the FBI, regardless of what he is called in the media!
In my book, anyone caught with a bomb, who was planning on blowing up airplanes - and the people in them - is a terrorist! Plain and simple!
Note to Ahmed - if the shoe fits, wear it.
Ahmed Ressam is the terrorist who was caught back in 1999 with a bomb in the trunk of his rental car, which he planned on using at Los Angeles International Airport during the Millenium Celebrations.
Ahmed Ressam is also the terrorist who was cooperating with the FBI, until he learned that he was being referred to as ... a terrorist (gasp!), at which time he went into a major pout, and clammed up, saying he was offended by being called a terrorist. Now his Federal Public Defender, Tom Hillier, says that Ressam has renounced terrorism, and shouldn't be called that anymore because it hurts Ahmed's feelings. IF Ressam has indeed renounced terrorism, then he should be willing to continue to cooperate with the FBI, regardless of what he is called in the media!
In my book, anyone caught with a bomb, who was planning on blowing up airplanes - and the people in them - is a terrorist! Plain and simple!
Note to Ahmed - if the shoe fits, wear it.
Voyeurism is not a crime against a person in Washington State?
In this liberal enclave, known as Washington State, where the Dem dominated Legislature passes "nanny" laws williy-nilly, voyeurism is not considered a crime against a person? Not even if the voyeurism is directed at young teenagers? I'm amazed, appalled, and outraged all at the same time by this!
As reported here, a Tumwater man, Donald Mason was caught videotaping young teens (both boys and girls) as they were using a pool side restroom facility, and after his initial court appearance, he was allowed to post a measly $2,500.00 bond - the bond was that low, because voyeurism is not considered a crime against a person!
Fortunately, wiser heads prevailed, and Mr. Mason was re-arrested, and this time the bail was set at $50,000.
If Mr. Mason is convicted of the three charges against him, he should be classified as a Level 3 sex offender (highly likely to re-offend), and be sent to McNeil Island with the rest of the perverts.
I hope that at least one member of our State Legislature is outraged enough to sponser a bill making this a felony level crime, no matter the age of the victim(s)!
Note to the Legislature - do the right thing, and pass a law making this a crime against a person!
As reported here, a Tumwater man, Donald Mason was caught videotaping young teens (both boys and girls) as they were using a pool side restroom facility, and after his initial court appearance, he was allowed to post a measly $2,500.00 bond - the bond was that low, because voyeurism is not considered a crime against a person!
Fortunately, wiser heads prevailed, and Mr. Mason was re-arrested, and this time the bail was set at $50,000.
If Mr. Mason is convicted of the three charges against him, he should be classified as a Level 3 sex offender (highly likely to re-offend), and be sent to McNeil Island with the rest of the perverts.
I hope that at least one member of our State Legislature is outraged enough to sponser a bill making this a felony level crime, no matter the age of the victim(s)!
Note to the Legislature - do the right thing, and pass a law making this a crime against a person!
Hanoi Jane is at it again!
As reported here, Hanoi Jane is at it again, taking her uber-lib screeching on the road to protest the Iraq War. Just what we need - another leftard, washed up Hollywood elite (who only made it in Hollywood because of her father - certainly not because she has/had any talent) going out of her way to undermine morale of American troops engaged in combat. 'Crocodile tear', fake-apology to Vietnam vets aside, didn't she learn anything from that?
Note to Hanoi Jane - sit down, and shut up! You're irrelevant. Traitor!
Note to Hanoi Jane - sit down, and shut up! You're irrelevant. Traitor!
Seattle City officials defend higher energy use in new building.
As reported here, Seattle City officials are defending the higher energy use in their new building. I posted earlier about this here. Now, I'm a Facilities Maintenance Technician by trade, and the excuses the city officials used to defend the higher energy use in the new building seem pretty flimsy to me.
KC Council nixes purchase of new building
KC Executive Ron "King" Sims has been lobbying the County Council to buy a building in South Seattle for a while now, to supposedly group all of the Elections offices in one place, even though the County is in the process of building a new building! And this is during a tight budget period?
Fortunately, as reported here, those plans have been halted - for now - by of all people, Council member Bob Ferguson, a Democrat!
While I applaud Mr. Ferguson's efforts, the Council still voted to approve $75,000 to develop criteria for building owners to pitch buildings to the Council, that they may want to sell to the county. To me, the county should develop space in their new building to house the Elections office, and spend that $75,000 there, but they won't. I suppose that spending $75,000 is better than spending the $22.8 million dollars it would have taken to purchase and renovate the other building.
Kudos to Bob Ferguson for saying "NO!" to "King" Sims!
Fortunately, as reported here, those plans have been halted - for now - by of all people, Council member Bob Ferguson, a Democrat!
While I applaud Mr. Ferguson's efforts, the Council still voted to approve $75,000 to develop criteria for building owners to pitch buildings to the Council, that they may want to sell to the county. To me, the county should develop space in their new building to house the Elections office, and spend that $75,000 there, but they won't. I suppose that spending $75,000 is better than spending the $22.8 million dollars it would have taken to purchase and renovate the other building.
Kudos to Bob Ferguson for saying "NO!" to "King" Sims!
Is Europe coming around finally?
In this piece by Pete Du Pont, he asks the question, "Is Old Europe finally learning that it must join in the Global War on Terror?". (Free subscription required)
My questions are, is Europe with us in the GWOT, or are they simply wanting this "mess" to just "go away"? Are things changing in Europe now, or not?
Read the piece by Mr. Du Pont, and see for yourself if Old Europe really is starting to finally come around, and let me know what you think.
My questions are, is Europe with us in the GWOT, or are they simply wanting this "mess" to just "go away"? Are things changing in Europe now, or not?
Read the piece by Mr. Du Pont, and see for yourself if Old Europe really is starting to finally come around, and let me know what you think.
Saturday, July 30, 2005
Two milestones for us
Well, we have reached two milestones in our brief blogging existence.
The first is that we have, as of Friday, July 29th, 2005, hit the 500 mark for hits to our blog. Thank you to all who have visited us!
The second is that - at least at the time of this post, anyway - we are listed number 1 in a Yahoo.com search result, ironically enough on a previous post I made about bestiality being legal in Washington State.
The first milestone, I must admit, is rather exciting for me, although the number 500 does pale in comparison to the "big boys", such as Powerline, Hugh Hewitt, Captain's Quarters, Little Green Footballs, or Chrenkoff's blog; heck, that number is even dwarfed by the number of readers one Seattle's local blogs, Sound Politics has. But, it is a milestone, nevertheless. I hope to build on that number in the coming weeks and months. Again, thank you to all who have stopped by.
The second milestone - being listed number 1 in a Yahoo search result - is also rather exciting. Why it had to be on that particular post, though, is rather mind boggling.
The first is that we have, as of Friday, July 29th, 2005, hit the 500 mark for hits to our blog. Thank you to all who have visited us!
The second is that - at least at the time of this post, anyway - we are listed number 1 in a Yahoo.com search result, ironically enough on a previous post I made about bestiality being legal in Washington State.
The first milestone, I must admit, is rather exciting for me, although the number 500 does pale in comparison to the "big boys", such as Powerline, Hugh Hewitt, Captain's Quarters, Little Green Footballs, or Chrenkoff's blog; heck, that number is even dwarfed by the number of readers one Seattle's local blogs, Sound Politics has. But, it is a milestone, nevertheless. I hope to build on that number in the coming weeks and months. Again, thank you to all who have stopped by.
The second milestone - being listed number 1 in a Yahoo search result - is also rather exciting. Why it had to be on that particular post, though, is rather mind boggling.
Sunday, July 24, 2005
A little humor for you to pass the time with
Iowahawk has a hilarious take on the "fill-in-the-blanks" form letters used by moonbat leftard outfits, and this looks like what you might see regarding their screeching about John Roberts being nominated to the Supreme Court.
Warning! Do not ingest liquid just prior to reading this, as this could cause damage to your monitor and/or keyboard when you spew said liquid caused by laughing out loud!
Hat tip: hollie is right
Warning! Do not ingest liquid just prior to reading this, as this could cause damage to your monitor and/or keyboard when you spew said liquid caused by laughing out loud!
Hat tip: hollie is right
Who cares?
After two seperate terrorist attacks in London, what is a top priority in the minds of the opposition Conservative Party? Is it how to better ferret out potential terrorists? Is it about the use of deadly force by the London PD? Does it have anything to do with the Global War on Terror, at all?
Nope, none of the above, kids. What is a top priority to the Conservatives? The price of make up. Specifically the price Tony Blair has spent on make up, and make up artists, used for Mr. Blair's TV appearances. Who cares?
At a time when London has seen two seperate terrorist attacks, the opposition Conservative Party wants to know how much money Tony Blair has spent on make up for his TV appearances? Who cares? Is this really a priority? Who cares how much Mr. Blair spent? Do they loathe Mr. Blair so much that they demand to know this trivial bit of information, or are they just that desperate to try to put him in a "bad light"?
What utter, absurd, total nonsense!
Nope, none of the above, kids. What is a top priority to the Conservatives? The price of make up. Specifically the price Tony Blair has spent on make up, and make up artists, used for Mr. Blair's TV appearances. Who cares?
At a time when London has seen two seperate terrorist attacks, the opposition Conservative Party wants to know how much money Tony Blair has spent on make up for his TV appearances? Who cares? Is this really a priority? Who cares how much Mr. Blair spent? Do they loathe Mr. Blair so much that they demand to know this trivial bit of information, or are they just that desperate to try to put him in a "bad light"?
What utter, absurd, total nonsense!
He's demanding WHAT?!?!
Look who's demanding a release of all records. Yes, that's right, the man who refused to release all of his records during the presidential campaign, the junior Senator from Massachusetts, John "Christmas in Cambodia is seared, seared in my memory" Kerry. (Note to John - it never happened, pal.)
The same man who has yet to release all of his records despite repeated requests for him to do so, has the temerity, the absolute gall, to demand that Judge Roberts and the Bush Administration release all records pertaining to Judge Roberts - and he's not even on the Judiciary Committee!
If I were Judge Roberts, I would only release the same percentage of records as Kerry did, and refuse to release the rest until such time as Kerry releases all of his records for public review.
But that's just me. What the judge, and the Administration will do remains to be seen.
The same man who has yet to release all of his records despite repeated requests for him to do so, has the temerity, the absolute gall, to demand that Judge Roberts and the Bush Administration release all records pertaining to Judge Roberts - and he's not even on the Judiciary Committee!
If I were Judge Roberts, I would only release the same percentage of records as Kerry did, and refuse to release the rest until such time as Kerry releases all of his records for public review.
But that's just me. What the judge, and the Administration will do remains to be seen.
The end of free speech as we know it?
Sgt. Shaft, writing in the Washington Times, posts two letters regarding the move to amend the Constitution allowing the Congress to pass legislation to prohibit the desecration of the American flag.
Will an amendment to the Constitution giving Congress the power to prohibit the desecration of the American flag take away our rights to free speech? In a word, no.
Read both pages.
Will an amendment to the Constitution giving Congress the power to prohibit the desecration of the American flag take away our rights to free speech? In a word, no.
Read both pages.
Terrorists theory of victory
Discouraged by the "news" coming from Iraq? Will the terrorists win? Well, don't be discouraged. James Jay Carafano, writing in the Washington Times says that there is no terrorist theory of victory, that all terrorists eventually end up dead or defeated. Which is as it should - and will - be.
AP Poll: Most in US expect another World War
As reported here, a recent poll conducted in both the US and Japan shows that 60% of Americans expect another world war is likely to occur in their lifetime, while only about 33% of Japanese expect it. In the poll, they keep referring to this next world war as World War III, which is incorrect, as we have already fought - and won - World War III, and we are now engaged in World War IV.
What was World War III, and what is World War IV, you ask?
World War III was the so-called "Cold War", fought between Communism and Capitalism, which began immediately after the end of WWII, with the blockade by Soviet forces of Berlin, and included the invasion of S. Korea by N. Korea and the Chinese; the rise to power in Cuba by Fidel Castro; the fall of Dien Bien Phu in Vietnam, with the subsequent pull out by the French, and partitioning of Vietnam into two countries; the Cuban Missile Crisis, where the Soviets installed, and then were forced to remove, ballistic missiles in Cuba; America's increased involvement in Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos, with our subsequent, shameful, abandonement of those three countries to the Communists.
The end of WWIII started in Poland, with the brave people of Poland bringing down the Communist regime, followed by the military build up by America, which eventually bankrupted the Soviet Union as they tried to match the US; followed by the unrest in the Balkan States, forcing the Soviets to withdraw; followed by President Reagan's famous demand to Gorbachev to tear down the Berlin Wall. When that fell and Germany was reunited, along with the collapse of the Soviet empire, and the former vassal states of the Soviet Union gaining their freedom, WWIII came to an end.
WWIV, also known as the Global War on Terror, actually started in the 1990's with the first Gulf War when Iraq invaded Kuwait, followed by the attacks on our embassies, and the USS Cole, and then escalated on September 11th, 2001, which resulted in the overthrow of the Taliban regime in Afghanistan, and the ouster of Saddam in Iraq, and continues to this day.
If anyone does not believe we are in a World War right now, you have your head in the sand, and are suffering from a major case of denial.
What was World War III, and what is World War IV, you ask?
World War III was the so-called "Cold War", fought between Communism and Capitalism, which began immediately after the end of WWII, with the blockade by Soviet forces of Berlin, and included the invasion of S. Korea by N. Korea and the Chinese; the rise to power in Cuba by Fidel Castro; the fall of Dien Bien Phu in Vietnam, with the subsequent pull out by the French, and partitioning of Vietnam into two countries; the Cuban Missile Crisis, where the Soviets installed, and then were forced to remove, ballistic missiles in Cuba; America's increased involvement in Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos, with our subsequent, shameful, abandonement of those three countries to the Communists.
The end of WWIII started in Poland, with the brave people of Poland bringing down the Communist regime, followed by the military build up by America, which eventually bankrupted the Soviet Union as they tried to match the US; followed by the unrest in the Balkan States, forcing the Soviets to withdraw; followed by President Reagan's famous demand to Gorbachev to tear down the Berlin Wall. When that fell and Germany was reunited, along with the collapse of the Soviet empire, and the former vassal states of the Soviet Union gaining their freedom, WWIII came to an end.
WWIV, also known as the Global War on Terror, actually started in the 1990's with the first Gulf War when Iraq invaded Kuwait, followed by the attacks on our embassies, and the USS Cole, and then escalated on September 11th, 2001, which resulted in the overthrow of the Taliban regime in Afghanistan, and the ouster of Saddam in Iraq, and continues to this day.
If anyone does not believe we are in a World War right now, you have your head in the sand, and are suffering from a major case of denial.
Safeco Chairman exploring whether to run for Senate in 2006
As reported here, former CEO, and current Chairman of Safeco Insurance, Mike McGavick has begun to choose top Republican strategists to help him explore whether he should run against Dem Sen. Maria "Can't-do-well" in 2006. Four people who have agreed to help McGavik are former Sen. Slade Gorton (who narrowly lost to "Can't-do-well"), and current KVI-570 radio talk show host, John Carlson, former Congresswoman Jennifer Dunn, and John Stanton, CEO and Chairman of Western Wireless - all heavy hitters in local and national politics.
Note to Maria - with people like these folks behind McGavik, you better bring your "A" game to the campaign. (But, even if you do, I still think you're going to lose.)
Note to Maria - with people like these folks behind McGavik, you better bring your "A" game to the campaign. (But, even if you do, I still think you're going to lose.)
Sunday, July 17, 2005
The abortion debate that wasn't
This opinion piece by George Neumayr is a real eye opener, and if you are - like me - pro-life, it is a definite must-read!
Unborn children are increasingly being aborted if, through prenatal testing, they are found to have genetic defects, and in many cases, if it is merely suspected that they might have genetic defects.
If this practice had been available in the late 1940's to the 1950's, my sister-in-law who has MS, along with her sister who might also develope this disease, might have been aborted, so as to not be a "burden" to their parents in later life. If that had happened, my brother would have been deprived of his soul-mate, and his children, and I would have been deprived of my sister-in-law - a very bright, vivacious person - and my nephew and niece, and their children. There also exists the possibility that my brother, sister, and I would all have never been born, as we all carry some genetic defects that affect our health.
Eugenics is what this is called, which is the overt manipulation of the population to achieve "desirable" traits, first practiced in large part by the Nazi regime, who attempted to eliminate "undesirables" from their population. Is that where we as a society are headed? Do we really want to "play God", eliminating "undesirables" - people who are afflicted with such things as MS, spina bifida, palsy in all it's forms? How about blindness, or deafness? Why don't we just eliminate people who will need to wear glasses while we're at it. What kind of "message" are we sending to those with disabilities - are they really "undesirable", and have no place in society? What about Stephen Hawking, regarded as probably the most astute physicist ever - surpassing even Albert Einstein? Where would our current - and future - understanding of physics be without Hawking?
Why don't we hear more about this? Because it's a "dirty little secret" that the pro-abortionists - including "Madame Hillary" - don't want the rest of us to know about, that's why.
This practice needs more exposure, so that it can be stopped!
Unborn children are increasingly being aborted if, through prenatal testing, they are found to have genetic defects, and in many cases, if it is merely suspected that they might have genetic defects.
If this practice had been available in the late 1940's to the 1950's, my sister-in-law who has MS, along with her sister who might also develope this disease, might have been aborted, so as to not be a "burden" to their parents in later life. If that had happened, my brother would have been deprived of his soul-mate, and his children, and I would have been deprived of my sister-in-law - a very bright, vivacious person - and my nephew and niece, and their children. There also exists the possibility that my brother, sister, and I would all have never been born, as we all carry some genetic defects that affect our health.
Eugenics is what this is called, which is the overt manipulation of the population to achieve "desirable" traits, first practiced in large part by the Nazi regime, who attempted to eliminate "undesirables" from their population. Is that where we as a society are headed? Do we really want to "play God", eliminating "undesirables" - people who are afflicted with such things as MS, spina bifida, palsy in all it's forms? How about blindness, or deafness? Why don't we just eliminate people who will need to wear glasses while we're at it. What kind of "message" are we sending to those with disabilities - are they really "undesirable", and have no place in society? What about Stephen Hawking, regarded as probably the most astute physicist ever - surpassing even Albert Einstein? Where would our current - and future - understanding of physics be without Hawking?
Why don't we hear more about this? Because it's a "dirty little secret" that the pro-abortionists - including "Madame Hillary" - don't want the rest of us to know about, that's why.
This practice needs more exposure, so that it can be stopped!
All-mail voting in King Co. proposed
As reported here, The Election Reform Task Force appointed by King County executive "King" Sims has come out with some recommendations as proposed by various commitees of the task force, one of which doesn't surprise me one bit, as it fits the Dems agenda of perpetrating voter fraud whenever and however they can - all mail-in voting. All mail-in voting makes it very simple to commit voter fraud. We already have evidence of that in last years elections, with dead people voting.
I am vehemently opposed to all mail-in voting, but there are some recommendations mentioned in the article that I do agree with. Hopefully, the all mail-in voting proposal will be flatly rejected out of hand. We'll just have to wait and see, I guess.
I am vehemently opposed to all mail-in voting, but there are some recommendations mentioned in the article that I do agree with. Hopefully, the all mail-in voting proposal will be flatly rejected out of hand. We'll just have to wait and see, I guess.
Rossi won't run for the Senate in 2006
As reported here, Dino Rossi has made it known that he will not run against Sen. Maria "Can't-do-well" in 2006, leaving open the possibility of matching up again against our current, so-called Governor in 2008.
There is an interesting list of potential candidates listed in the article, with one surprise name - to me, anyway - mentioned. Susan Hutchison, former news anchor at one of our local TV stations, who was fired from that station a few years back. I didn't know Susan was a Republican, but now that I do know, I am guessiong that I also now know why she was fired. You see, the station she used to work at is our local C-BS affiliate, and we all know which way that network leans, eh? In case you don't (and if you don't, you've been living in a cave somewhere!), C-BS is extremely liberal, and with Susan being a Republican ... well, all I can say is that I'm surprised they let her work there for as long as they did.
There is an interesting list of potential candidates listed in the article, with one surprise name - to me, anyway - mentioned. Susan Hutchison, former news anchor at one of our local TV stations, who was fired from that station a few years back. I didn't know Susan was a Republican, but now that I do know, I am guessiong that I also now know why she was fired. You see, the station she used to work at is our local C-BS affiliate, and we all know which way that network leans, eh? In case you don't (and if you don't, you've been living in a cave somewhere!), C-BS is extremely liberal, and with Susan being a Republican ... well, all I can say is that I'm surprised they let her work there for as long as they did.
Thurston County Judge has overstepped his boundaries
Recently, a Thurston County judge ruled that a couple of local talk radio hosts - John Carlson and Kirby Wilbur on KVI - had made "in-kind" campaign contributions when they endorsed I-912 (the repeal of the unnecessary new gas tax foisted on us by the Dem dominated state legislature), and urged listeners to sign the initiative petition so that it would be on the November ballot. This vague and rambling ruling abridges political free speech, which is contrary to the First Amendment of the Constitution, and is based on this judge's vague and rambling interpretation of the McCain-Feingold Act.
Julia A. Youngs points out in this opinion piece just how wrong this is.
As fellow blogger reality hammer has stated, I will defend my right to political free speech with vigor, all the way to the Federal Supreme Court if needed. Just try to stop me!
Julia A. Youngs points out in this opinion piece just how wrong this is.
As fellow blogger reality hammer has stated, I will defend my right to political free speech with vigor, all the way to the Federal Supreme Court if needed. Just try to stop me!
This is pathetic!
This web site is digustingly pathetic! Haven't parents learned any better after the Jon Benet Ramsey case? What are they thinking? I wonder how many pedophiles are logging on to this web site?
Oh, and don't you just love the poorly done PhotoShop job on the eyes? Spooky, if you ask me!
Hat tip - hollie is right
Oh, and don't you just love the poorly done PhotoShop job on the eyes? Spooky, if you ask me!
Hat tip - hollie is right
Sunday, July 10, 2005
When will I learn?
I normally don't read the letters to the editor in either the PI or the Times since most of them are basically the regurgitation of drivel promulgated by the rest of the left. (Maybe in the future I will express how I really feel.) I did happen to see a letter today in the Seattle Times that again pushes the idea (totally unsupported) that the President is responsible for over a hundred thousand civilian deaths in Iraq. (I suppose that the facts of Saddam's butchery of over 300,000 makes no difference.) He also tried to repeat the blither about our war in Iraq being the cause of the trouble in London. I quote, "Bush's condemnation of the terrorist sounds hollow in the the context of his actions. He should be apologizing for creating an atmosphere that incites terrorism." When will I learn? These apologists for terror and mayhem will just keep thinking in terms of the United States is the biggest villian in the world and the Times and the PI will continue to print their letters over and above the ones that express the truth rather than unsupported leftist dogma. I will try to ignore the letters section since I get so incensed by the idiocies expressed.
California State Legislators are at it again
The knuckleheaded do-gooders in the California State Legislature are at it again, trying to pass more "good intention" bills, which will have dire consequences on that state's economy, and in other areas, if passed. Oh, and it wouldn't surprise me one bit if the knuckleheaded do-gooder legislators in Washington State will soon try to follow suit and try to enact similar legislation.
In this article in the Washington Times, we learn that the California State Legislature is trying to pass a couple of bills requiring gun and ammunition manufacturers to laser-imprint their products with tracking numbers to "assist" local law enforcement to track down guns used in crimes, and their owners. This is just wrong, wrong, wrong knuckleheadedness.
What it won't do is keep criminals from obtaining guns and ammunition, contrary to what Sen. Diane Feinstein says.
In this article in the Washington Times, we learn that the California State Legislature is trying to pass a couple of bills requiring gun and ammunition manufacturers to laser-imprint their products with tracking numbers to "assist" local law enforcement to track down guns used in crimes, and their owners. This is just wrong, wrong, wrong knuckleheadedness.
As stated in the article, enacting this legislation will do the following -
- Destroy the ammunition manufacturing industry in California, costing lost jobs and tax revenues;
- Cause normally law-abiding people who want to legally purchase guns and ammunition to do so out of state, also resulting in lost jobs and tax revenues;
- Cost both the State and Federal governments money so that civilian police departments and the military can practice shooting - something inherently vital to the protection of the citizenry. What good are cops and/or soldiers who can't hit what they're shooting at?
What it won't do is keep criminals from obtaining guns and ammunition, contrary to what Sen. Diane Feinstein says.
A Seattle P-I editorial I actually agree with!
Which you can read here. It's about methamphetamine use and production being an epidemic, and that the Administration, for some unfathomable reason, is against increasing funding to local police to help fight it.
I'm a recovered (not recovering, thank you very much!) drug user, who with Divine help in the late 1970's, came to the realization that drugs are very bad for one's health. Even as I was using drugs - and I never used meth, thank God! - I knew that if I didn't stop, I would die before I hit 21 years of age. I came to that realization when I was 20, by the way, and next year I'll hit the big "five-oh".
I stated that to say this. Over the past several years, there have been numerous reports of raids on meth factories in the Pacific Northwest, which are usually located in people's homes. Homes that become so contaminated by the chemicals used in the production of meth that they become hazardous waste sites, requiring officials to put on hazmat suits just to be able to go inside to clean the places up.
Most of the time, these homes where meth was being cooked, are filthy beyond belief. But, I suppose that when you are making and using meth, cleanliness goes way down on the priority list. Also found in these homes converted to meth factories, and this is the really disturbing part, are the children of the meth producers/users. Young children. Children who are exposed to not only the hazards inherent in the production of meth, but also to their parents, and their partents friends, using the drug. Children almost invariably look up to their parents as role models, don't they?
I think the Federal Government is making a very bad mistake here, pooh-poohing the idea that meth production and use has reached epidemic proportions. The production and use of meth is spreading across our nation, as a wild fire spreads through dry forest, and steps need to be taken NOW to stem the tide.
I'm a recovered (not recovering, thank you very much!) drug user, who with Divine help in the late 1970's, came to the realization that drugs are very bad for one's health. Even as I was using drugs - and I never used meth, thank God! - I knew that if I didn't stop, I would die before I hit 21 years of age. I came to that realization when I was 20, by the way, and next year I'll hit the big "five-oh".
I stated that to say this. Over the past several years, there have been numerous reports of raids on meth factories in the Pacific Northwest, which are usually located in people's homes. Homes that become so contaminated by the chemicals used in the production of meth that they become hazardous waste sites, requiring officials to put on hazmat suits just to be able to go inside to clean the places up.
Most of the time, these homes where meth was being cooked, are filthy beyond belief. But, I suppose that when you are making and using meth, cleanliness goes way down on the priority list. Also found in these homes converted to meth factories, and this is the really disturbing part, are the children of the meth producers/users. Young children. Children who are exposed to not only the hazards inherent in the production of meth, but also to their parents, and their partents friends, using the drug. Children almost invariably look up to their parents as role models, don't they?
I think the Federal Government is making a very bad mistake here, pooh-poohing the idea that meth production and use has reached epidemic proportions. The production and use of meth is spreading across our nation, as a wild fire spreads through dry forest, and steps need to be taken NOW to stem the tide.
Two different political developments in Washington State
In the first, proponents for Initiative 912 - to repeal the recently enacted, and unnecessary, gas tax hike - submitted over 400,000 signatures, which virtually guarantees that it will be on the November ballot. Opponents were shocked - shocked I tell you! - that the backers of I-912 were able to gather that many signatures in such a short period of time. I'm not.
In the second, apparently some people aren't suffering from "cranial-rectal syndrome", as the Pierce County Mail-in Advisory Task Force rejected a call to place a non-binding question regarding converting the voting process in Pierce County to be all mail-in voting, making it virtually impossible for that question to be put before the voters this November.
In case you're new to this blog, during the recent gubenatorial election and election challenge trial, I linked several times to Sound Politics, where Stefan Sharkansky explains why we should not go to all mail-in voting. If you don't want to check out their archives to find out why, I'll give you a brief explanation as to why that's a very bad idea - all mail-in voting makes it very easy to commit voter fraud.
In the second, apparently some people aren't suffering from "cranial-rectal syndrome", as the Pierce County Mail-in Advisory Task Force rejected a call to place a non-binding question regarding converting the voting process in Pierce County to be all mail-in voting, making it virtually impossible for that question to be put before the voters this November.
In case you're new to this blog, during the recent gubenatorial election and election challenge trial, I linked several times to Sound Politics, where Stefan Sharkansky explains why we should not go to all mail-in voting. If you don't want to check out their archives to find out why, I'll give you a brief explanation as to why that's a very bad idea - all mail-in voting makes it very easy to commit voter fraud.
"Revisionist Historian of the Year" Award goes to ...
May I have a drum roll, and the envelope please? Thank you. And our winner is? Brian Williams of NBC Nightly News!
Oliver North, via Red States, lists all of the reasons why Mr. Williams is so deserving of this dubious distinction.
I feel very let down by you Brian, after hearing your interview on Kirby Wilbur's show, prior to you taking over for Brokaw. I thought that the American public was going to get at least a moderate voice in you, but no, you have proven me wrong.
One question for you Brian - are you trying to follow in the footsteps of that idot moron who recently resigned his position at C-BS? If so, you've made a heck of a start.
Oliver North, via Red States, lists all of the reasons why Mr. Williams is so deserving of this dubious distinction.
I feel very let down by you Brian, after hearing your interview on Kirby Wilbur's show, prior to you taking over for Brokaw. I thought that the American public was going to get at least a moderate voice in you, but no, you have proven me wrong.
One question for you Brian - are you trying to follow in the footsteps of that idot moron who recently resigned his position at C-BS? If so, you've made a heck of a start.
The "hate crime" that wasn't
In this piece, Michelle Malkin dissects the "Muslim hate crime" that wasn't, and the knee jerk responses from the "victim-hood" crowd, and the anti-Americanism put on display once again by the MSM.
You know, there's an old adage that goes, 'Don't believe everything you hear.', that the leftists grabbed and ran amok with during the Viet Nam War, as they challenged everything put out by the government (some of which was justified, to be sure). But apparently that doesn't apply these days to their enablers in the MSM, as those who cried out in feigned outrage never bothered to take the time to check to see if what was reported was in fact actually true. They merely assumed it was, because it was reported in the "news"papers.
Note to moonbat leftists: Try checking facts before you go off next time.
You know, there's an old adage that goes, 'Don't believe everything you hear.', that the leftists grabbed and ran amok with during the Viet Nam War, as they challenged everything put out by the government (some of which was justified, to be sure). But apparently that doesn't apply these days to their enablers in the MSM, as those who cried out in feigned outrage never bothered to take the time to check to see if what was reported was in fact actually true. They merely assumed it was, because it was reported in the "news"papers.
Note to moonbat leftists: Try checking facts before you go off next time.
Density doesn't make housing affordable
In this opinion piece, David C. Bloom blasts Mayor Nichols plan for increasing the density in our neighborhoods here in Seattle, as he states that affordable housing is decreasing at a time when we need more, not less, affordable housing.
Mr. Bloom is correct. In my neighborhood alone, over the past few years, I've seen several mixed use (commercial/retail/residential uses in the building) go up, and just out of curiosity, I checked into the prices being charged for the new condo's and apartments, and what I found should not be considered affordable to the average person or family.
Sample prices for condo's? $250,000.00 and up for a one bedroom unit. I don't know about anyone else, but I certainly can't afford that!
Sample monthly rents for apartments? $950.00 a month for a very small (think studio with a tiny bedroom) one bedroom unit, and that's just a starting point. They of course only go up from there. That's almost double what I'm paying for my 1920's vintage one bedroom apartment. And I know that these prices aren't isolated to new construction in just my neighborhood. As a matter of fact, prices in other neighborhoods are even higher!
Mr. Mayor, you have publicly stated that one of your "most important goals" is to increase the amount of affordable housing in Seattle, yet your plan results in fewer affordable housing units being built. In case you're not aware of this fact, Mr. Mayor, not everybody in Seattle works for Bill Gates!
Mr. Bloom is correct. In my neighborhood alone, over the past few years, I've seen several mixed use (commercial/retail/residential uses in the building) go up, and just out of curiosity, I checked into the prices being charged for the new condo's and apartments, and what I found should not be considered affordable to the average person or family.
Sample prices for condo's? $250,000.00 and up for a one bedroom unit. I don't know about anyone else, but I certainly can't afford that!
Sample monthly rents for apartments? $950.00 a month for a very small (think studio with a tiny bedroom) one bedroom unit, and that's just a starting point. They of course only go up from there. That's almost double what I'm paying for my 1920's vintage one bedroom apartment. And I know that these prices aren't isolated to new construction in just my neighborhood. As a matter of fact, prices in other neighborhoods are even higher!
Mr. Mayor, you have publicly stated that one of your "most important goals" is to increase the amount of affordable housing in Seattle, yet your plan results in fewer affordable housing units being built. In case you're not aware of this fact, Mr. Mayor, not everybody in Seattle works for Bill Gates!
Tuesday, July 05, 2005
Oh, the irony of it all! What's the Mayor going to do now?
This is just too humorously ironic! Our Mayor - "Mr. I-Love-Kyoto-And-I-Want-Everyone-Else-To-Love-Kyoto-Too" - moved City Hall from a 1960's vintage building into a new, supposedly "green" building, only to find out that the new building uses more electricity than the old building.
So, Mr. Mayor, what are you going to do now? Turn off the air conditioning in the summer, and like your mentor, the peanut farmer from Georgia, have everyone wear sweaters in the winter?
Oh, the irony of it all!
So, Mr. Mayor, what are you going to do now? Turn off the air conditioning in the summer, and like your mentor, the peanut farmer from Georgia, have everyone wear sweaters in the winter?
Oh, the irony of it all!
Monday, July 04, 2005
Poor writing costing taxpayers millions?
As reported here, poor writing skills are costing taxpayers millions of dollars, because public sector employees have to be sent to remedial writing classes? Why were they allowed to graduate from High Scholl if they couldn't form a simple sentence?
Oh, I forgot. They don't teach English anymore (you know - spelling, grammer, sentence structure, etc. - everything important to composition), they teach "Language Arts" now, where the emphasis is on expressing simple "feelings", rather than complex ideas. Thanks NEA, for wasting my tax dollars through your "touchy-feely", so-called "education" programs.
Oh, I forgot. They don't teach English anymore (you know - spelling, grammer, sentence structure, etc. - everything important to composition), they teach "Language Arts" now, where the emphasis is on expressing simple "feelings", rather than complex ideas. Thanks NEA, for wasting my tax dollars through your "touchy-feely", so-called "education" programs.
Voting right restoration process too difficult? Tough!
As reported here, the "do-gooders" are complaining that the felon voter restoration process is "too difficult". My response? Tough.
Sorry, Monifa, but that's wrong. Committing crimes creates more prisoners. If you want to stay "in the loop", not be "isolated from the larger community", and want to keep your right to vote, don't commit a felony. It's that simple.
I believe that if you are convicted of a felony, you should have to "jump through hoops" (as many as possible, too), in order for you to be included in the larger, law-abiding, community. The right to vote should be reserved only for those who obey the laws, not break them.
"Keeping people out of the loop, keeping people isolated from the larger community just
creates more prisoners," said Monifa Bandele, national field director for
Right to Vote, a New York-based advocacy group.
Sorry, Monifa, but that's wrong. Committing crimes creates more prisoners. If you want to stay "in the loop", not be "isolated from the larger community", and want to keep your right to vote, don't commit a felony. It's that simple.
I believe that if you are convicted of a felony, you should have to "jump through hoops" (as many as possible, too), in order for you to be included in the larger, law-abiding, community. The right to vote should be reserved only for those who obey the laws, not break them.
Teachers opposed to dress codes - for themselves
As reported here, teachers are upset at, and are opposed to, having to abide by dress codes for themselves. If students must abide by dress codes, then teachers certainly should be made to do so as well. After all, aren't they supposed to be role models for their students? The fact that members of the NEA are opposed doesn't surprise me one bit.
Thomas Sowell weighs in on property rights decision
Thomas Sowell weighs in on the property rights decision of the Supreme Court, here.
He explains what a ludicrous decision it is far better than I ever could. Read it.
He explains what a ludicrous decision it is far better than I ever could. Read it.
Libs want say in Supreme Court nominee
As reported here, Liberals want President Bush to nominate a moderate for the opening seat on the Supreme Court, to avoid that nasty "F" word - no, not that "f" word, the other one - Filibuster. Since when does the President need to heed the advice of Liberals?
This is an absolute outrage!
As reported here, three baggage handlers at BMI Airport have been arrested for stealing items from baggage of troops going overseas to Iraq and Afghanistan. This is an absolute outrage!
They have been stealing things like DVD players, lap top computers, MP3 players, etc. Items that are intended by the troops to be able to communicate with family and friends, and to keep their spirits up while they put their lives on the line to keep the rest of us free.
I hope the prosecutor goes for the maximum sentence, and that the judge abides by that, and sends these ... well, the word I had in mind isn't a "polite" one ... three to jail for a long time!
Hat tip: hollie is right
They have been stealing things like DVD players, lap top computers, MP3 players, etc. Items that are intended by the troops to be able to communicate with family and friends, and to keep their spirits up while they put their lives on the line to keep the rest of us free.
I hope the prosecutor goes for the maximum sentence, and that the judge abides by that, and sends these ... well, the word I had in mind isn't a "polite" one ... three to jail for a long time!
Hat tip: hollie is right
It's ALL about 9/11
In this piece, Andrew C. McCarthy links - most effectively, I might add - what we are doing in Iraq with 9/11, and challenges the "nothing whatsoever" crowd to answer certain facts. If you still don't think Saddam had anything to do with 9/11, read this article. You might even have your eyes opened to the truth.
Hat tip: reality hammer
Hat tip: reality hammer
Widow urges President Bush to stay the course
As is his usual custom, President Bush met with the families of fallen soldiers prior to his speech at Ft. Bragg this past Tuesday, as reported here. Crystal Owen, the widow of Staff Sgt. Mike Owen gave the President a bracelet engraved with her husbands name, and that of Cpl. John Santos, who were both killed on the same day in Iraq. As she presented President Bush with the bracelet, she urged him to stay the course and not let the 1700 plus deaths in Iraq be in vain. The President wore the bracelet throughout his address to the nation.
Hat tip: Supedujour
Hat tip: Supedujour
Friday, July 01, 2005
Welcome to the world of "cerfdom"
Have you considered what the recent decision by the US Supreme court concerning the rights of eminent domain for local governments? What could they have been thinking? Governments at all levels have been waiting with baited breath for the decision so they could take all sorts of property from individuals and small neighborhoods for the "public good" such as businesses or hotels or other such private corporation use as opposed to a small home that doesn't bring in anywhere near the same level of tax revenue. This is the crux of the matter, tax revenues. They can't seem to think in terms of not spending so much, instead they think in terms of how can we get more revenue. And thinking that ordinary people "can't see the bigger picture" and just how much of an "improvement" that the local government can get from their property just fries me! Since when has government at any level had more sense and capability to know what and how to do with our resources? I hope that ordinary people can get together to let the "elites" know they have gone too far. We are supposed to be people who run the governments and it is turning into governments who are running us... Kind of like the middle ages when only the nobles owned property and the people living on it just paid for the priveledge...
When is a "little" better than a "lot"?
A few days ago I went to one of the big lumber/hardware/appliance stores in the area for a heavy guage wire to make some croquet wickets. I only needed three wickets or about six feet. Once upon a time you could get the amount you needed without having to buy a hundred unit box of something. I couldn't get the wire I needed from the first store I went to. I went to another, same story except one of the customer helper folks pointed out that I could buy a roll of wire of the correct guage... The roll was for 100 feet. Sheesh! What in the world do I need 94 more feet than I wanted for? I then went to one of the more local lumber stores and they promptly provided the item that I wanted and in the quantity that I wanted for a ridiculously low price. Amazing!!! I got three pieces of insulation wire for $.06 plus $.01 in sales tax (a sore subject that I find it difficult to discuss without turning red in the face and nearly screaming in frustration about) and probably spent well over a dollar in gas (ANOTHER sore subject due to this state's insistance that we pay the highest prices for) BUT I got my wire. There are reasons to buy large quantities of TP or paper towels or any number of things, one of which is simply so you don't have to go out to buy more for a time. I miss the local lumber/hardware store sometimes, I don't miss the higher prices maybe but the ability to buy just a "little" rather than a "lot" sometimes helps alleviate the pain of higher prices. By the way, the box of insullation wire that I would have had to purchase at the big store was over $10 for 200 pieces and the roll of wire was over $8. I asked if they had smaller quantities of what I needed and it was a negative answer. So when I found what I wanted at the local and paid for it I was thinking that I will go more to the local and less to the bigs. I wonder if the bigs will start to feel the customer's complaints if the customer starts using the locals again or if some of the locals treat people like individuals with small AND large needs...
Sunday, June 26, 2005
Alice Cooper - shock rocker, conservative Republican, Christian?
Surprised? Me too! But Chrenkoff has a mini-interview of Alice Cooper here, which is definitely worth the brief time it will take to read.
I particularly got a kick from this statement by Arthur:
I particularly got a kick from this statement by Arthur:
"By the way, you have to be worried when a guy with too much mascara and a snake wrapped around his neck has a keener grasp of basic new millennium geopolitics than so many leading lights of the Democratic Party."
Yes, indeed.
More good news from Iraq
An informative run down on Operation Lightning, from Iraq The Model. If anyone should know what is really happening in Iraq, it stands to reason that it would be Iraqi's, don't you think?
Rabid Donkeys on the loose
Here is an interesting run down on "Rabid Donkeys on the Loose". Worth a look see.
Hat tip: Michelle Malkin
Hat tip: Michelle Malkin
Tangible progress in Iraq
As many of you are aware, the MSM has been going out of it's way to portray events in Iraq in the most negative-to-America light that they can. In this opinion piece, Rep. Jim Saxton (R-NJ) offers up the opinion that there really is tangible proof that there really is progress being made in Iraq, despite the best efforts of the MSM to say otherwise.
If you would like to read further good news about what is happening in Iraq, don't forget to visit Chrenkoff's blog. He's been doing an on-going series of "good news from Iraq" posts for some time now, which you can find by scrolling down a ways, and looking on the right side of his page.
If you would like to read further good news about what is happening in Iraq, don't forget to visit Chrenkoff's blog. He's been doing an on-going series of "good news from Iraq" posts for some time now, which you can find by scrolling down a ways, and looking on the right side of his page.
Dems at it again
As the Federal Legislature is nearing recess, as reported here, the Dems are still continuing to play their favorite game, blocking an up or down vote, this time on Bolton for the US Ambassador to the UN.
Psst. Here's a little secret that it appears the Dems forgot about. The President can simply wait until the Federal Legislature does recess, and simply appoint Bolton to the position, which I think President Bush should do.
Bolton is the man we absolutely need at this time to be the US Ambassador to the UN, but because of his no-nonsense approach to things, the Dems don't like him - he's not "touchy-feely" enough for them. So, go ahead Dems. Keep blocking an up or down vote, and see what happens when you go home.
Psst. Here's a little secret that it appears the Dems forgot about. The President can simply wait until the Federal Legislature does recess, and simply appoint Bolton to the position, which I think President Bush should do.
Bolton is the man we absolutely need at this time to be the US Ambassador to the UN, but because of his no-nonsense approach to things, the Dems don't like him - he's not "touchy-feely" enough for them. So, go ahead Dems. Keep blocking an up or down vote, and see what happens when you go home.
Sunday, June 19, 2005
At last! A tax I do support!
As proposed here by Deroy Murdock, the long suffering, poor (make that rich) bleeding heart liberals should be given an opportunity to refuse accepting President Bush's tax cuts, by enacting a provision to the US Tax Code called the HOT, or Higher rate Optional Tax - which really does exist in many states already. This way, they would be able to pay more than their fair share (yeah, right - like that's going to happen), enabling the government to spend even more money. Read the article to see just how many of them have actually taken advantage of this in their states.
At last, a tax I do support!
At last, a tax I do support!
Still think Canada has a better health care system?
After reading this opinion piece, written by a Canadian I might add, I think you may change your mind.
Does the US health care system have problems? Yes. Does it need to be changed? Yes. Should we change it to a Soviet styled system, such as Canada's, where the government is your only source of health care, as the socialist leftist elites in this country are clamoring for? A most emphatic NO!
Does the US health care system have problems? Yes. Does it need to be changed? Yes. Should we change it to a Soviet styled system, such as Canada's, where the government is your only source of health care, as the socialist leftist elites in this country are clamoring for? A most emphatic NO!
Budget Crisis? What budget crisis?
As reported here, Washington State's growing economy will pump an approximate additional $450 million dollars into the State Treasury. Is that a result of all the new taxes passed by the Dem dominated Legislature? No. It's a result of the still booming construction industry, which is fueled by low interest rates.
Before all of the new taxes were passed, there was great wailing and gnashing of teeth about a looming budget crisis in Washington State - caused mainly, in my opinion, by wasteful spending habits of the State Legislature, and not by shortfalls in revenue raised by existing taxes.
Because of the supposed "looming budget crisis", and because Dems just love raising existing taxes, and creating new taxes, they went on a tax passing 'feeding frenzy', which is only going to slow down the growth in our state's economy!
The national economy is growing at a steady pace - regardless of what the AP would have you believe - due in large part to the resilient spirit of the American people, and President Bush's tax cuts. What a great example to follow in local area's - cut taxes to put more money in the pockets of the people, and let them decide how it will be spent at the local level, rather than the government - but did the Washington State Legislature learn anything from this example? No. They raised existing taxes, and created new taxes, in the mistaken belief that this will solve their spending problems.
They just don't get it.
Before all of the new taxes were passed, there was great wailing and gnashing of teeth about a looming budget crisis in Washington State - caused mainly, in my opinion, by wasteful spending habits of the State Legislature, and not by shortfalls in revenue raised by existing taxes.
Because of the supposed "looming budget crisis", and because Dems just love raising existing taxes, and creating new taxes, they went on a tax passing 'feeding frenzy', which is only going to slow down the growth in our state's economy!
The national economy is growing at a steady pace - regardless of what the AP would have you believe - due in large part to the resilient spirit of the American people, and President Bush's tax cuts. What a great example to follow in local area's - cut taxes to put more money in the pockets of the people, and let them decide how it will be spent at the local level, rather than the government - but did the Washington State Legislature learn anything from this example? No. They raised existing taxes, and created new taxes, in the mistaken belief that this will solve their spending problems.
They just don't get it.
More encouraging news about the economy, but the AP doesn't like it
As reported here in an AP article, consumer prices dropped in May, while activity at US factories surged. This is really encouraging news about the US economy, however, the AP and the Seattle P-I just had to insert the negative "But ..." into the article.
Why is it that the AP just has to be so negative all the time, regardless of what they are reporting on, when it comes to news about the US? It seems that in every article, especially if it is good news, the AP has to 'counter' the good news with a "But ..." statement.
The extreme anti-Americanism of the AP has become entirely too tiresome, and needs to stop. Does that mean I endorse a 'rah-rah, jingoistic' method of "news reporting"? Certainly not, as that too, is an extreme that has no place in the dissemination of information. I just wish that the AP 'reporters' would leave their leftist political biases at home, and just report the news, instead of constantly 'editorializing' every time they sit at their computers, and let us make up our own minds as to what it means.
Why is it that the AP just has to be so negative all the time, regardless of what they are reporting on, when it comes to news about the US? It seems that in every article, especially if it is good news, the AP has to 'counter' the good news with a "But ..." statement.
The extreme anti-Americanism of the AP has become entirely too tiresome, and needs to stop. Does that mean I endorse a 'rah-rah, jingoistic' method of "news reporting"? Certainly not, as that too, is an extreme that has no place in the dissemination of information. I just wish that the AP 'reporters' would leave their leftist political biases at home, and just report the news, instead of constantly 'editorializing' every time they sit at their computers, and let us make up our own minds as to what it means.
Changes in KC Elections Office
As reported here, Superintendent Bill Huennekens has been demoted to a lower paying job within the department to oversee compliance with the 2002 election reform laws passed by the Feds. Oh, and by the way, this is a newly created position, that I think was created to specifically retain Bill Huennekens - the guy who gave the okay to submit the falsified absentee voter reconciliation to the Canvassing Board.
In the article the phrase " an ongoing overhaul ... " is used, but that isn't accurate in this case. An overhaul implies change, beyond simply moving people around to different positions, in my opinion.
A real overhaul would see Bill Huennekens having to apply for unemployment benefits, along with his boss Dean Logan. Oh, and I can't forget King County Executive Ron Sims, too. All three need to go before real change will come to the KC Elections Office.
In the article the phrase " an ongoing overhaul ... " is used, but that isn't accurate in this case. An overhaul implies change, beyond simply moving people around to different positions, in my opinion.
A real overhaul would see Bill Huennekens having to apply for unemployment benefits, along with his boss Dean Logan. Oh, and I can't forget King County Executive Ron Sims, too. All three need to go before real change will come to the KC Elections Office.
Saturday, June 18, 2005
The Religion of Peace?
I keep hearing that Islam is the religion of peace and that we are to respect this religion and its "holy Quran" by not even suggesting flushing it down a toilet. The religion of peace went on a rampage when the story went out about the Quran being flushed and the story wasn't even verified or anything. What is it that sends the Islamic fanatics into turmoil and killing frenzy when their holy book, which is only a copy of the original in any case, gets a hint that someone in government (especially the US government) has chosen not to respect it, whether true or not? When was the last time anyone of the "infidels" went into a frenzy when the Bible was destroyed? How many people suffered from the riots and "righteous" anger directed at the government or the people from that country? I find no evidence of such action for a long period. In point of fact, there was a movie that had a pirate use pages from the Bible as the paper to roll his tobacco in. That movie didn't do well and has only been on local TV once that I know of, but still...
The word, "Islam" means "submission", not "peace". When people choose not to become members of the Islamic community for whatever reason, they become what is known as infidels. The Islamic controlled government then begins the process of elimination of the infidels. Take a look at the Islamic countries of today for your evidence of this. Christians aren't allowed to talk to anyone about Jesus or they face horrendous consequences. Jews face even worse consequences, they get bombed. If you do "believe", and you steal something, you can lose pieces of yourself. What I find completely mystifying in all this, where is the Peace? How is it that the Liberals can be so tolerant of the "religion of peace" and intolerant of Christianity? Just check out how the ACLU froths at the mouth when a monument with the Ten Commandments is on "public" property. I have a question about that as well, since when did Christians and Jews get excluded from being a part of the "public"? (I think the answer may have something to do with how much our faith influences our lives and activities towards others.) I wonder if some of this doesn't kind of sort of follow from the libs believing that only a few are really smart enough to know how to do things and that the rest of the people (read conservatives) need to be told what to do and how to do things? After all, the same kinds of thought happen in the "religion of peace", only the mullahs and a caliph are to be in control...
The word, "Islam" means "submission", not "peace". When people choose not to become members of the Islamic community for whatever reason, they become what is known as infidels. The Islamic controlled government then begins the process of elimination of the infidels. Take a look at the Islamic countries of today for your evidence of this. Christians aren't allowed to talk to anyone about Jesus or they face horrendous consequences. Jews face even worse consequences, they get bombed. If you do "believe", and you steal something, you can lose pieces of yourself. What I find completely mystifying in all this, where is the Peace? How is it that the Liberals can be so tolerant of the "religion of peace" and intolerant of Christianity? Just check out how the ACLU froths at the mouth when a monument with the Ten Commandments is on "public" property. I have a question about that as well, since when did Christians and Jews get excluded from being a part of the "public"? (I think the answer may have something to do with how much our faith influences our lives and activities towards others.) I wonder if some of this doesn't kind of sort of follow from the libs believing that only a few are really smart enough to know how to do things and that the rest of the people (read conservatives) need to be told what to do and how to do things? After all, the same kinds of thought happen in the "religion of peace", only the mullahs and a caliph are to be in control...
Sunday, June 12, 2005
Children found hogtied
If once wasn't enough, it's happened again! As reported here, a 10 year old boy was found wandering the streets at 4:30 in the morning by police, and he stated that he had escaped being hogtied by his grandparents! This is outrageous!
Although there is no mention in the report for the reason the kids were hogtied, I'm pretty sure it was because they were being "unruly". Folks, kids will be "unruly" - it's part of the "job description" for being a kid - but that does NOT give adults a reason, let alone the right, to tie them up! Heck, when I was a kid, I was unruly at times, causing my mother no end of frustration, I'm sure. But, she NEVER, EVER had to tie me up!
My parents set boundaries for us kids (including our friends, too, I might add) for appropriate behavior. When we overstepped those boundaries, we suffered the consequences of our improper behavior by getting a (gasp!) spanking, and afterwards (at least in my case, anyway) a stern talking to, to ensure we understood where we had gone wrong. But, good grief, they never had to tie us up!
If you have kids, show them that you love them by setting boundaries for them, and let them know what the consequences will be when they overstep those boundaries, so they can be the kids they are. When they overstep those boundaries - and they will I assure you - keep your word, and mete out the appropriate punishment, and then have a little chat with them so they know where they messed up. By showing your love for your kids in this manner, they will be less inclined to be "unruly", as they know they will suffer consequences for their actions. But, please - don't tie them up! If you do, you'll suffer the consequences for your actions!
Although there is no mention in the report for the reason the kids were hogtied, I'm pretty sure it was because they were being "unruly". Folks, kids will be "unruly" - it's part of the "job description" for being a kid - but that does NOT give adults a reason, let alone the right, to tie them up! Heck, when I was a kid, I was unruly at times, causing my mother no end of frustration, I'm sure. But, she NEVER, EVER had to tie me up!
My parents set boundaries for us kids (including our friends, too, I might add) for appropriate behavior. When we overstepped those boundaries, we suffered the consequences of our improper behavior by getting a (gasp!) spanking, and afterwards (at least in my case, anyway) a stern talking to, to ensure we understood where we had gone wrong. But, good grief, they never had to tie us up!
If you have kids, show them that you love them by setting boundaries for them, and let them know what the consequences will be when they overstep those boundaries, so they can be the kids they are. When they overstep those boundaries - and they will I assure you - keep your word, and mete out the appropriate punishment, and then have a little chat with them so they know where they messed up. By showing your love for your kids in this manner, they will be less inclined to be "unruly", as they know they will suffer consequences for their actions. But, please - don't tie them up! If you do, you'll suffer the consequences for your actions!
Lie, Cheat, and Steal
Is this a post about wrestler Eddie Guerrero of the WWE, whose "motto" is lie, cheat, and steal? Um, no, it isn't.
It is, however, about the fact that the Washington State Dem Party has been fined by the state Public Disclosure Commission for not reporting (in essence, telling a lie, trying to cheat - again - and, again in essence, stealing) just who contributed money that was transferred by the national DNC to the state party coffers. It took the state Dems 104 days after the deadline to cough up the info, too! How much was the fine? A whopping $187,500.00! That's a lot of money from the pockets of ordinary (although misguided, in my opinion) people that was wasted by their party leadership.
Apparently the party leadership doesn't care about that though, as it seems that their unofficial new motto is Lie (about the issues), Cheat (during elections - win at any cost!), and Steal (money from their own constituents!).
It is, however, about the fact that the Washington State Dem Party has been fined by the state Public Disclosure Commission for not reporting (in essence, telling a lie, trying to cheat - again - and, again in essence, stealing) just who contributed money that was transferred by the national DNC to the state party coffers. It took the state Dems 104 days after the deadline to cough up the info, too! How much was the fine? A whopping $187,500.00! That's a lot of money from the pockets of ordinary (although misguided, in my opinion) people that was wasted by their party leadership.
Apparently the party leadership doesn't care about that though, as it seems that their unofficial new motto is Lie (about the issues), Cheat (during elections - win at any cost!), and Steal (money from their own constituents!).
An interesting concept for Social Security
In this opinion piece, it is suggested that the "Social Security surplus" be used to invest in mortgages. A novel idea that just may work. What do you think?
The question that just won't die
What is the question that just won't die? "Will there be a military draft?", is the question that won't die.
As reported here, Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld once again answered that question - with a certain amount of exasperation, I might add - with an empahtic "NO!".
Read this next sentence s l o w l y, and try to commit it to memory - we do not need a military draft! We have the premier military force in the entire world, that not even China with their millions of men under arms wants to tangle with.
Introducing conscripts into our armed forces would destroy the quality of our armed forces as they are now constituted. Just look at what happened to the Army and the Marine Corps during Viet Nam if you don't believe that.
My question to the idiot morons who keep asking that other question is, what part of NO! don't you understand?
As reported here, Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld once again answered that question - with a certain amount of exasperation, I might add - with an empahtic "NO!".
Read this next sentence s l o w l y, and try to commit it to memory - we do not need a military draft! We have the premier military force in the entire world, that not even China with their millions of men under arms wants to tangle with.
Introducing conscripts into our armed forces would destroy the quality of our armed forces as they are now constituted. Just look at what happened to the Army and the Marine Corps during Viet Nam if you don't believe that.
My question to the idiot morons who keep asking that other question is, what part of NO! don't you understand?
Seahawks (finally) release wide out Koren Robinson
As reported here, the Seattle Seahawks have finally - finally! - released wide out Koren Robinson.
Was it because he kept dropping passes in games? Nope. Then why did they release their former number one pick?
Because Koren couldn't take personal responsibility for his actions by keeping his hands off booze.
He was suspended for 4 games last year by the NFL for violating substance abuse policies, and then during the off season, he entered a treatment facility as required by the NFL. Then during the April mini-camp, Koren made all these pleasant noises about how he was going to straighten up and fly right - which I really had hoped he would do, for his own sake if nothing else - but then he was arrested for DUI. In May. Early May. Not long after he had spoken all those nice words he thought everyone wanted to hear. That was the last straw, as far as the Seahawks were concerned, and they gave him his walking papers.
If anyone is still living in the fantasy world of denial of consequences for personal misdeeds/lack of taking responsibility for those actions, need only look at this latest example of what can happen. This young man, gifted with the athletic ability to run fast and catch a football, threw away his golden opportunity to enjoy large chunks of change for many years, and for what? The fleeting "feel good" sensation that alcohol can induce.
I hope for Koren's sake, that he gets the help he needs to stay away from the booze, and to grow up, and come to the realization that there are consequences for making improper choices in your life.
Was it because he kept dropping passes in games? Nope. Then why did they release their former number one pick?
Because Koren couldn't take personal responsibility for his actions by keeping his hands off booze.
He was suspended for 4 games last year by the NFL for violating substance abuse policies, and then during the off season, he entered a treatment facility as required by the NFL. Then during the April mini-camp, Koren made all these pleasant noises about how he was going to straighten up and fly right - which I really had hoped he would do, for his own sake if nothing else - but then he was arrested for DUI. In May. Early May. Not long after he had spoken all those nice words he thought everyone wanted to hear. That was the last straw, as far as the Seahawks were concerned, and they gave him his walking papers.
If anyone is still living in the fantasy world of denial of consequences for personal misdeeds/lack of taking responsibility for those actions, need only look at this latest example of what can happen. This young man, gifted with the athletic ability to run fast and catch a football, threw away his golden opportunity to enjoy large chunks of change for many years, and for what? The fleeting "feel good" sensation that alcohol can induce.
I hope for Koren's sake, that he gets the help he needs to stay away from the booze, and to grow up, and come to the realization that there are consequences for making improper choices in your life.
Car thieves in Seattle to get more jail time
As reported here, car thieves in Seattle will get more jail time when caught. It's about time, as auto theft has reached "epidemic" proportions here, and up to now, the consequences have been little more than a slap on the wrist. Before this change, a car thief had to have been arrested seven times, before they saw even semi-serious jail time! That is not what I would call a deterent, you know?
Although I'm not really impacted by this problem (I own a late 1970's car - who would want to steal that, eh?), I do know some people who have been impacted by this, with one person having had their car stolen three times - by the same guy!
It is hoped that this change in attitude towards car theft will eventually have a positive impact on this situation.
Although I'm not really impacted by this problem (I own a late 1970's car - who would want to steal that, eh?), I do know some people who have been impacted by this, with one person having had their car stolen three times - by the same guy!
It is hoped that this change in attitude towards car theft will eventually have a positive impact on this situation.
Monday, June 06, 2005
It's over - Rossi concedes
As reported here, Dino Rossi lost in his attempt to overturn the results from last November's governors race, with Judge Bridges making ruling after ruling against Rossi. As a result of Judge Bridges' rulings, Rossi has conceded and has stopped his law suit, saying that with the make up of the Washington State Supreme Court being what it is (extremely liberal), there would be no way that Judge Bridges' rulings would be overturned on appeal.
I am extremely disappointed in this. However, there exists the possibility that King County will do a total revamp of their elections office and their procedures so that something like what happened last November doesn't happen in the future. I can always hope, can't I?
There also exists the possibility that Rossi will now run against Cantwell for her Senate seat in 2006. Cantwell is vulnerable, and if Rossi does decide to run against her, there very well may be a lot of support for him, due to what happened in the governors race. I voted for him last November, and if he does decide to run against Cantwell next year, I'll vote for him again.
I am extremely disappointed in this. However, there exists the possibility that King County will do a total revamp of their elections office and their procedures so that something like what happened last November doesn't happen in the future. I can always hope, can't I?
There also exists the possibility that Rossi will now run against Cantwell for her Senate seat in 2006. Cantwell is vulnerable, and if Rossi does decide to run against her, there very well may be a lot of support for him, due to what happened in the governors race. I voted for him last November, and if he does decide to run against Cantwell next year, I'll vote for him again.
Sunday, May 29, 2005
A good summation of Washington State election case
For anyone that might have questions over all the "to do" in the Washington State Governors election case, Peter Kirsanow of National Review does a very good job of summarizing what is happening, and why.
Hat tip - Stefan Sharkansky of Sound Politics.
Hat tip - Stefan Sharkansky of Sound Politics.
Finally! After four long years, an up or down vote!
As reported here, the Senate has finally confirmed one of President Bush's judicial nominee's, Texas Supreme Court Justice Priscilla Owen to the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals - after making her, and the rest of us, wait for four years (just another example of our government at "work")!
And how did this finally come about? After the spineless Republican Senators caved in to the demands of the minority Democrats! And what is the reward for this caving in? Are all the rest of the nominee's going to now get an up or down vote? Um, no. Only two more will will receive up or down votes - Justices Janice Rogers Brown and William Pryor.
What caused the four year delay in getting Justice Owen confirmed? Charges by the Dems that her conservative viewpoints were "out of the mainstream", which is Dem speak that says she makes rulings based on what the Constitution actually says, rather than an "interpretation" of what she thinks it says - unlike the leftist, activist, judges who "interpret" what the Constitution actually says according to their leftist political bias, whims, and maybe what day of the week it is.
Making rulings based on what the Constitution actually says, rather than trying to "interpret" it on whims and political bias, is "out of the mainstream"? Um ... no.
And how did this finally come about? After the spineless Republican Senators caved in to the demands of the minority Democrats! And what is the reward for this caving in? Are all the rest of the nominee's going to now get an up or down vote? Um, no. Only two more will will receive up or down votes - Justices Janice Rogers Brown and William Pryor.
What caused the four year delay in getting Justice Owen confirmed? Charges by the Dems that her conservative viewpoints were "out of the mainstream", which is Dem speak that says she makes rulings based on what the Constitution actually says, rather than an "interpretation" of what she thinks it says - unlike the leftist, activist, judges who "interpret" what the Constitution actually says according to their leftist political bias, whims, and maybe what day of the week it is.
Making rulings based on what the Constitution actually says, rather than trying to "interpret" it on whims and political bias, is "out of the mainstream"? Um ... no.
Is Sen. Voinovich a RINO, or just infected with PCism?
As reported here, Republican Senator John Voinovich (Ohio) has circulated a letter to other Republican Senators urging them to vote "No" on the nomination of John Bolton to become UN Ambassador, stating in the letter that Bolton would be "ineffective" because of the so-called controversy over Bolton's supposed "abrasive" leadership style.
How does Voinovich know that Bolton would be "ineffective"? Has he worked with Bolton, or is he only going on hearsay about Bolton?
Is Voinovich going the way of McCain, and becoming a RINO (Republican In Name Only), or has he fallen victim to an infection of PCism?
How does Voinovich know that Bolton would be "ineffective"? Has he worked with Bolton, or is he only going on hearsay about Bolton?
Is Voinovich going the way of McCain, and becoming a RINO (Republican In Name Only), or has he fallen victim to an infection of PCism?
Budget shortfall? What budget shortfall?
This is outrageous. The former Attorney General and the Legislature have been braying for quite some time now that there is a huge budget shortfall in Washington State - which is why they have been so eager to raise taxes - so what happens?
As reported here, the former Attorney General, Legislators and Judges have been given a pay raise by a citizens advisory panel! And they accepted it!
Now, I'm all for getting a pay raise - I'd like one, too! - but not when there is a budget shortfall! The former Attorney General and the State Legislature should have at least deferred this pay raise until such time as the budget was out of "crisis", but did they?
Of course not!
As reported here, the former Attorney General, Legislators and Judges have been given a pay raise by a citizens advisory panel! And they accepted it!
Now, I'm all for getting a pay raise - I'd like one, too! - but not when there is a budget shortfall! The former Attorney General and the State Legislature should have at least deferred this pay raise until such time as the budget was out of "crisis", but did they?
Of course not!
Protesters march on recruiting offices
As reported here, about 100 protesters angry about military recruiters coming to their schools, marched on several recruiting offices this past Monday, demanding that recruiters stop coming to their schools.
As the protesters arrived at the recruiting offices, they began to harangue the recruiters using bullhorns, chanting slogans, and also forced their way into some of the offices - and were then promptly "ushered" back out. Kudos to Sgt. 1st Class Jessica Hicks for doing the "ushering"!
At one of our local high schools, the left leaning PTSA passed a resolution to ban all military recruiters from that high school, which is a violation of the 1st Amendment Free Speech clause. This is very ironic to me, in that, the US military's main job is to protect our freedoms - including the ability to speak freely - and yet, the local PTSA wants to deny the recruiters freedom of speech by denying them access to the school, which is oh so typical of the Left.
Also in the article, a 17 year old student from one of the local high schools was quoted as saying, "I don't want to go to war. I don't want to die, I want to learn." While I can understand the youngsters desire to live, and learn, I have news for him - it's rather easy for you to not go to war and possibly die, dude. Don't join the all volunteer military. The same military, by the way, that is doing what it is supposed to do - protecting your freedom of speech, and enabling you to make choices for your own life.
As the protesters arrived at the recruiting offices, they began to harangue the recruiters using bullhorns, chanting slogans, and also forced their way into some of the offices - and were then promptly "ushered" back out. Kudos to Sgt. 1st Class Jessica Hicks for doing the "ushering"!
At one of our local high schools, the left leaning PTSA passed a resolution to ban all military recruiters from that high school, which is a violation of the 1st Amendment Free Speech clause. This is very ironic to me, in that, the US military's main job is to protect our freedoms - including the ability to speak freely - and yet, the local PTSA wants to deny the recruiters freedom of speech by denying them access to the school, which is oh so typical of the Left.
Also in the article, a 17 year old student from one of the local high schools was quoted as saying, "I don't want to go to war. I don't want to die, I want to learn." While I can understand the youngsters desire to live, and learn, I have news for him - it's rather easy for you to not go to war and possibly die, dude. Don't join the all volunteer military. The same military, by the way, that is doing what it is supposed to do - protecting your freedom of speech, and enabling you to make choices for your own life.
Sunday, May 22, 2005
When does scientific theory become scientific "fact"?
When I was in school (I know, a couple of thousand years ago plus or minus five hundred years) scientific method included throwing as many questions about the theory as was possible to see if it could stand up to the scutiny of the other scientists. A few years ago one theory came out with a lot of fanfare and excitement due to the potential wonders this theory could do for EVERYONE. The theory, "cold fusion". What a boon that would have been for all sorts of things. Just to think that we could get energy of fantastic quantities with a generator working at room temperatures, instead of the fantastic heat and pressure necessary for fusion. The media was all over the upside of this "discovery" until it was found that no one else could repeat the cold fusion group's experimental results. Of course, the media then pooh-poohed the whole idea and somehow passed on the thought that they "knew" the idea was full of bologna even before the scientific community had made any efforts to prove or disprove the theory. While the "cold fusion" scientists were disappointed and disheartened by the lack of substantiation, they were men of science and didn't point fingers at the "non-scientists" for any kind of conspiracy against "cold fusion". One theory that held a lot of promise for a lot of people was shown to be false by the scientific method.
There are two areas of science related theories that still have not been proven or substantiated to any great extent that have proponents accusing those who don't "believe" that the evidence is sufficient to accept the theories as fact are right wing religious fanatics and (even worse) ignorant non-scientists. The two theories, Evolution and Global Warming. I want to make clear that I can understand the concepts of both, BUT I don't agree with everything that is being said about them. I have stated before in other areas that those who believe in Evolution or in Intelligent Design are both starting from a philosophical premise that is diametrically opposed. One believes that there is no god and so tries to figure out how everything came to be. The other believes in the possibility of a god and so tries to figure out the same thing. Where the Intelligent Design folks are trying for dialogue with anyone including Evolutionists for discussion on many points, the Evolutionists pooh-pooh the idea of ID and refuse to even allow for anyone to hold those concepts without ridiculing those who do.
The global warming folks fall into the same trap. They refuse to even have dialogue with anyone who disagrees with their "science", even going so far as to shout down any disagreements. Do they use science to ridicule opposition? NO! They call those who disagree all kinds of names, including, right wing religious fanatics.
Somehow these two concepts have become "scientific facts", without the benefit of efforts on both sides to have a dialogue about the disagreements. Somehow the ones who want dialogue are involving themselves in a "conspiracy to quiet the proponents of these "scientific facts". The amount of anger and disdain directed at the disagreeing people seems to me to rise to the level of, shall I say it?, religious fanaticism. Polite discourse is something of the "old-fashioned" sort, especially when the ones holding one concept's "absolute inviability" feel that no one else's ideas have any merit or should have an audience.
So, the answer to my question seems to be, when enough people get emotional about the ideas to be able to scream louder than the others.
There are two areas of science related theories that still have not been proven or substantiated to any great extent that have proponents accusing those who don't "believe" that the evidence is sufficient to accept the theories as fact are right wing religious fanatics and (even worse) ignorant non-scientists. The two theories, Evolution and Global Warming. I want to make clear that I can understand the concepts of both, BUT I don't agree with everything that is being said about them. I have stated before in other areas that those who believe in Evolution or in Intelligent Design are both starting from a philosophical premise that is diametrically opposed. One believes that there is no god and so tries to figure out how everything came to be. The other believes in the possibility of a god and so tries to figure out the same thing. Where the Intelligent Design folks are trying for dialogue with anyone including Evolutionists for discussion on many points, the Evolutionists pooh-pooh the idea of ID and refuse to even allow for anyone to hold those concepts without ridiculing those who do.
The global warming folks fall into the same trap. They refuse to even have dialogue with anyone who disagrees with their "science", even going so far as to shout down any disagreements. Do they use science to ridicule opposition? NO! They call those who disagree all kinds of names, including, right wing religious fanatics.
Somehow these two concepts have become "scientific facts", without the benefit of efforts on both sides to have a dialogue about the disagreements. Somehow the ones who want dialogue are involving themselves in a "conspiracy to quiet the proponents of these "scientific facts". The amount of anger and disdain directed at the disagreeing people seems to me to rise to the level of, shall I say it?, religious fanaticism. Polite discourse is something of the "old-fashioned" sort, especially when the ones holding one concept's "absolute inviability" feel that no one else's ideas have any merit or should have an audience.
So, the answer to my question seems to be, when enough people get emotional about the ideas to be able to scream louder than the others.
Washington State Legislators are hopelessly clueless
As if our Legislators aren't clueless enough, now they take away metal detectors from the State capitol building because they were 'inconvenient' to people who worked there and to visitors, and because it will save two million dollars over this biennium.
I wonder how inconvenient it will be when a terrorist or nut case enters the building with a gun, and either starts shooting or takes people hostage. Which is more important - keeping people safe from potential terrorist or nutcase activity, or saving money?
Unbelieveable!
I wonder how inconvenient it will be when a terrorist or nut case enters the building with a gun, and either starts shooting or takes people hostage. Which is more important - keeping people safe from potential terrorist or nutcase activity, or saving money?
Unbelieveable!
Election contest trial set to start on Monday, May 23rd, 2005
This article lays out fairly well, what is at stake, and how each of the parties are approaching this case. It also includes a link at the bottom for people to watch or listen to the trial live.
First audit of KC Elections Office has begun
The first audit of the KC Elections Office began this past Tuesday, with two more audits to follow, one by an outside agency, and the other by a citizens oversight committee to be named later. Will what they find, and recommend, actually be taken seriously? Will their recommendations actually be implemented this time?
Sunday, May 15, 2005
Utopia - the impossible dream
In a must read article at Newsmax.com, Phil Brennan writes about the ultimate goal of the secularists - a Marxist-based Utopian society - which they are trying, with everything in their power, to achieve.
Hat tip - Littlebee55, a dear friend of mine.
Also, one of my favorite bloggers, David Limbaugh, often writes on this subject as well. If you haven't read his blog, I highly recommend it.
Hat tip - Littlebee55, a dear friend of mine.
Also, one of my favorite bloggers, David Limbaugh, often writes on this subject as well. If you haven't read his blog, I highly recommend it.
Washington State Legislators feeling the heat
And, according to this article, may be getting worried about voter backlash, in the wake of the recent passage of a new gas tax hike.
Many legislators are hearing from their constituents, and what they are hearing isn't being said in 'happy' tones, as people here are downright steamed about the newest gas tax - as well they should be.
But, of course, the Dems are saying that they aren't worried, because this is a 'needed' tax (as every tax is 'needed', in the eyes of the Dems) that will go to fixing the Viaduct, the 520 floating bridge, among other roads, as well as expanding I-405. They are also saying that passing this showed 'leadership'. Not passing new taxes - as promised by the former Attorney General during her campaign - that hurt the lower income people of the state the most, would have shown even more leadership, however.
I think the Dems, looking through their rose colored glasses, will be seeing some things in the next election that will catch them by surprise, such as lost seats in the Legislature, and a Republican in the Governors office - if that doesn't happen sooner, that is.
Many legislators are hearing from their constituents, and what they are hearing isn't being said in 'happy' tones, as people here are downright steamed about the newest gas tax - as well they should be.
But, of course, the Dems are saying that they aren't worried, because this is a 'needed' tax (as every tax is 'needed', in the eyes of the Dems) that will go to fixing the Viaduct, the 520 floating bridge, among other roads, as well as expanding I-405. They are also saying that passing this showed 'leadership'. Not passing new taxes - as promised by the former Attorney General during her campaign - that hurt the lower income people of the state the most, would have shown even more leadership, however.
I think the Dems, looking through their rose colored glasses, will be seeing some things in the next election that will catch them by surprise, such as lost seats in the Legislature, and a Republican in the Governors office - if that doesn't happen sooner, that is.
Annan trying the "I don't remember" defense
As reported here, the corrupt head of the corrupt UN is trying the "I don't remember" defense. Annan failed to report meetings he had with leaders of Cotecna, the firm his darling little boy worked as a consultant for, during his first interrogatory with the Volcker-led commission, but then suddenly "remembered" that he did have meetings with those people, and tried playing down any signifigance of those meetings after he checked his calendar and e-mail.
Koffi, Koffi, Koffi ... it won't work, pal. Your days are numbered, and the numbers are getting smaller.
Koffi, Koffi, Koffi ... it won't work, pal. Your days are numbered, and the numbers are getting smaller.
PETA is making the news - again
As reported here, PETA is now using shareholder resolutions with major corporations to push their agenda regarding using animals to test products. In order to do that, someone has to own at least $2,000.00 worth of stock. Now that seems "interesting" to me, in that, by owning stock in a company, you are expressing tacit approval for their policies and practices - including using animals to test products. So, in effect, PETA is both supporting and protesting corporate policies and practices in this area, at the same time!
And, get this - not only is PETA trying to shove their agenda down corporate throats, but according to this, they also kill animals - by the thousands - at their Norfolk, Virginia headquarters. How hypocritical of them. I guess the end justifies the means in their eyes.
And, get this - not only is PETA trying to shove their agenda down corporate throats, but according to this, they also kill animals - by the thousands - at their Norfolk, Virginia headquarters. How hypocritical of them. I guess the end justifies the means in their eyes.
Wednesday, May 11, 2005
Is a rift developing among Al-Qaida factions?
Apparently, the Pakistani's believe that to be the case. In this remarkably well written - for the AP, no less! - article, the Pakistani's claim that there is a rift between Central Asian factions and Arab factions, of Al-Qaida. Will this be enough to eventually bring Al-Qaida down sooner than expected? Only time will tell. Go read the article - if you're like me, and don't like the usually left leaning bias of the AP, you will be pleasantly surprised.
Monday, May 09, 2005
Is Government supposed to take care of us?
The other night I was watching the news and was astonished to hear someone make the comment that the government should have been taking care of them better. I will admit that the problem was of sufficiently large scope that government involvement was probably warranted, however, since when is the government supposed to go the next step and take care of the people? There is a town in California that is situated on naturally occurring asbestos. While there has been no recorded instances of cancer or other problems associated with asbestos in this town, this lady apparently felt that the town should not have been built there and even though it had been, the government should have moved everyone off the property to a new and presumably safer location. I am not one to believe that asbestos is that good of a substance in every circumstance, but when did the government take on the responsibility to make our decisions of where we would buy our homes and all the rest of our life choices? Ack!!!! Someone should tell this person that they have the choice of selling and moving or continuing to live there. If she feels that it is too dangerous to continue to live there, she should leave, not blame the government for the lack of care, after all, isn't "choice" the law of the land?
Sunday, May 08, 2005
Happy Mothers Day
Today is the day set aside to honor all the Mom's in our lives, and I think this e-card says it all. Go check it out. :)
The best explanation of the failings of Social unSecurity I've seen yet
If you've spent any time at all at our blog, you've noted the other blogs listed in the side bar. While checking out what others had to say on various topics, I came upon this post at Reality Hammer, that is the best explanation that I have ever seen on the failings of Social unSecurity, and why it needs to be fixed - now!
This is something you absolutely need to read, if you have any confusion at all (or even if you don't) about Social unSecurity. I just wish the Dems would read it, too but they won't. They just don't get it.
This is something you absolutely need to read, if you have any confusion at all (or even if you don't) about Social unSecurity. I just wish the Dems would read it, too but they won't. They just don't get it.
Breaking campaign promises, and proud of it
As reported here, after making campaign promises to not raise taxes if elected citing the fragility of the states economy, the former Attorney General is now proud to have done just that, and feels 'comfortable' in the governor's mansion.
All I can say is, she better have a phone number handy for a moving company, as she hopefully will need one soon.
All I can say is, she better have a phone number handy for a moving company, as she hopefully will need one soon.
Another "Clitonista" spews out vacuous comments
As reported here, former "Clintonista" Secretary of State Albright spews out some rather vacuous comments about the state of affairs in the war on terror, Iraq, Iran, Afghanistan, etc. As if she was effective during her time as Sec State!
Let's see now. The Oil For Food scandal got up and running during Clintons term; the USS Cole and the two embassies were bombed; Osama Bin Laden's head on a platter was offered to us - twice! - but we turned down both offers, with the reason given that OBL was just a "minor money guy, and not a serious player", among other abject failures. I could go on, but the failures of the previous administration, and especially the State Department are so revoltingly numerous, I might cause some of you intestinal distress.
If you have a strong stomach, and a high capacity to suspend belief, read the article. Memo to Albright: Your time is over. Please sit down.
Let's see now. The Oil For Food scandal got up and running during Clintons term; the USS Cole and the two embassies were bombed; Osama Bin Laden's head on a platter was offered to us - twice! - but we turned down both offers, with the reason given that OBL was just a "minor money guy, and not a serious player", among other abject failures. I could go on, but the failures of the previous administration, and especially the State Department are so revoltingly numerous, I might cause some of you intestinal distress.
If you have a strong stomach, and a high capacity to suspend belief, read the article. Memo to Albright: Your time is over. Please sit down.
KC Council Republicans pushing for ouster of Elections Director
As reported here, The minority KC Council Republican members are calling for the outer of KC Elections Director Dean Logan, as well they should, after the total fiasco the election has been, especially in King County.
But Dem Council member Larry Phillips, has ridden to the defense of Logan, stating that what the Republicans are trying to do is merely a political ploy (can you say Vast Right Wing Conspiracy?) to discredit Logan. Piffle! Logan has done enough to discredit himself. The Republicans don't need to do this to "discredit" Logan. All they are attempting to do is urge King Sims to ask Logan to resign, so that the people see that actual change is happening in the Elections Department, which may possibly help to restore voter confidence in that office.
Will this pass the council, and go before King Sims? Probably not, but resistance to this will not look good for the Dems in the eyes of many people. The same holds true for Sims if by some slim chance that it does come before him, and he refuses to act.
Once again the Dems are looking foolish for stonewalling yet again, as they oppose every effort by the Republicans, and more importantly by the people, to make needed changes in the KC Elections Office.
All I can say to the Dems is keep it up. The next election cycle isn't that far away.
But Dem Council member Larry Phillips, has ridden to the defense of Logan, stating that what the Republicans are trying to do is merely a political ploy (can you say Vast Right Wing Conspiracy?) to discredit Logan. Piffle! Logan has done enough to discredit himself. The Republicans don't need to do this to "discredit" Logan. All they are attempting to do is urge King Sims to ask Logan to resign, so that the people see that actual change is happening in the Elections Department, which may possibly help to restore voter confidence in that office.
Will this pass the council, and go before King Sims? Probably not, but resistance to this will not look good for the Dems in the eyes of many people. The same holds true for Sims if by some slim chance that it does come before him, and he refuses to act.
Once again the Dems are looking foolish for stonewalling yet again, as they oppose every effort by the Republicans, and more importantly by the people, to make needed changes in the KC Elections Office.
All I can say to the Dems is keep it up. The next election cycle isn't that far away.
A ray of hope amid the gloom of higher taxes?
As reported here, a consortium of conservative groups and business leaders have sued the State of Washington over the new taxes that have been passed, when the Dem controlled legislature amended the spending limitation initiative 601 - for the ninth time - to allow a simple majority, rather than the super majority as voted by the people, saying that it is illegal - which it is - even though an "emergency" was declared by the Dems. Emergency? What emergency? There is no emergency happening that would allow the legislature to amend Initiative 601!
Is there a budget shortfall? Yes, I'll grant that there is, and I have put forth my opinions on the reasons for that in previous posts, so I won't rehash that again here. Is there a specific emergency situation that warrants the amendment? No, there is not. So how does the legislature think that it can simply amend a peoples initiative, so they can raise taxes? The majority of them are Democrats, that's how.
Is there a budget shortfall? Yes, I'll grant that there is, and I have put forth my opinions on the reasons for that in previous posts, so I won't rehash that again here. Is there a specific emergency situation that warrants the amendment? No, there is not. So how does the legislature think that it can simply amend a peoples initiative, so they can raise taxes? The majority of them are Democrats, that's how.
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