Monday, April 05, 2004
The Official Jobs Report.
308,000 hundred jobs added. John Kerry can go criticize himself (he won't though). It doesn't get any better than this.
308,000 hundred jobs added. John Kerry can go criticize himself (he won't though). It doesn't get any better than this.
The Week With the Swings.
Another fine weekly edition put out the father and son combo in rural Maryland.
Another fine weekly edition put out the father and son combo in rural Maryland.
Sunday, April 04, 2004
No, I can't let you out. You've been really, really, naughty.
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Falluja Must Harden Our Resolve.
Here's some weekly analysis from the inestimable Bill Kristol from the Standard on the slaughter from the other day. No more Mogadishus, this is not "weak horse" time.
Here's some weekly analysis from the inestimable Bill Kristol from the Standard on the slaughter from the other day. No more Mogadishus, this is not "weak horse" time.
More Thomas Sowell, On Affirmative Action.
This one's from the brand new Commentary magazine . It's entitled "Affirmative Action Around the World" and he's just released it for 28 bucks:
The reality, driven home by Sowell’s excruciating reports, is very different. In fact, for a host of reasons, some of which we know and some of which we do not know, some of which spring from malign oppression and many of which do not, ethnic and racial groups behave differently, perform differently, learn differently, and exhibit greatly different talents and temperaments. That is not crude stereotyping; it is plain fact. Justice will not be done if this fact is denied or goes unrecognized. In giving us this great lesson with the aid of overwhelming evidence and a scrupulously dispassionate mind, Thomas Sowell is our finest teacher.
This one's from the brand new Commentary magazine . It's entitled "Affirmative Action Around the World" and he's just released it for 28 bucks:
The reality, driven home by Sowell’s excruciating reports, is very different. In fact, for a host of reasons, some of which we know and some of which we do not know, some of which spring from malign oppression and many of which do not, ethnic and racial groups behave differently, perform differently, learn differently, and exhibit greatly different talents and temperaments. That is not crude stereotyping; it is plain fact. Justice will not be done if this fact is denied or goes unrecognized. In giving us this great lesson with the aid of overwhelming evidence and a scrupulously dispassionate mind, Thomas Sowell is our finest teacher.
Brown Loves Reparations.
Can you believe this story? I'm glad Thomas Sowell is on the job. It's too bad my sister works there though.
Slavery was an ugly, dirty business but people of virtually every race, color, and creed engaged in it on every inhabited continent. And the people they enslaved were also of virtually every race, color and creed.
Can you believe this story? I'm glad Thomas Sowell is on the job. It's too bad my sister works there though.
Slavery was an ugly, dirty business but people of virtually every race, color, and creed engaged in it on every inhabited continent. And the people they enslaved were also of virtually every race, color and creed.
New Book: Handbook for the Vast Right Wing Conspiracy.
Man, I hope this garners some sales if there's any justice in the world.
Democrats will miss the boat on their typical economic class warfare rhetoric. The liberals think that the rhetoric of "Soak the rich; help the poor" is going work in this election. It's not -- thanks to the advent 401(k) plans and IRAs and the sophistication of the average Americans about business and the stock market. . .
Man, I hope this garners some sales if there's any justice in the world.
Democrats will miss the boat on their typical economic class warfare rhetoric. The liberals think that the rhetoric of "Soak the rich; help the poor" is going work in this election. It's not -- thanks to the advent 401(k) plans and IRAs and the sophistication of the average Americans about business and the stock market. . .
Saturday, April 03, 2004
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LSD is So Passe.
And thank God for that! No, I've never tried it; no, I've never wanted to; no, I never will. It happily appears that many have the same opinion and the rates of use are low, low, low. It's huge price increase also suggests that it is not as available and may be one of interdiction's few success stories. Hurrah!
And thank God for that! No, I've never tried it; no, I've never wanted to; no, I never will. It happily appears that many have the same opinion and the rates of use are low, low, low. It's huge price increase also suggests that it is not as available and may be one of interdiction's few success stories. Hurrah!
I, Dan Brown, F---ing Liar.
My mom loves his work and everybody else does too but LR's Gene Callahan provides the invaluable service of debunking this New York Times glamorboy.
My mom loves his work and everybody else does too but LR's Gene Callahan provides the invaluable service of debunking this New York Times glamorboy.
The Brilliant Kimball On Spain and England.
This is a link to The New Criterion's Notes and Comments section for this month. As many of you already know from my hyperblogs of it, TNC comes out on the second or third (online) of every month and it's my favorite magazine/journal on the planet. Here the editor pokes fun of the Labour Party in particular:
One of the first things to greet us was a headline in The Daily Telegraph: “Yet another Labour snub to the Queen.” Actually, there were two snubs. The first was the decision—taken by the Labour government without consulting Buckingham Palace—to drop the word “Crown” from the Crown Prosecution Service. The second snub was the decision to rename “Her Majesty’s Prison Service” the “National Offenders’ Management Service.” No, we are not making this up. In part, of course, both renamings are part of the Labour government’s not-so-subtle efforts to abolish Britain’s Constitutional Monarchy by erasing its stamp from more and more public institutions. But replacing “Prison Service” with “Offenders’ Management Service” is not an anti-monarchical gesture so much as a politically correct one.
This is a link to The New Criterion's Notes and Comments section for this month. As many of you already know from my hyperblogs of it, TNC comes out on the second or third (online) of every month and it's my favorite magazine/journal on the planet. Here the editor pokes fun of the Labour Party in particular:
One of the first things to greet us was a headline in The Daily Telegraph: “Yet another Labour snub to the Queen.” Actually, there were two snubs. The first was the decision—taken by the Labour government without consulting Buckingham Palace—to drop the word “Crown” from the Crown Prosecution Service. The second snub was the decision to rename “Her Majesty’s Prison Service” the “National Offenders’ Management Service.” No, we are not making this up. In part, of course, both renamings are part of the Labour government’s not-so-subtle efforts to abolish Britain’s Constitutional Monarchy by erasing its stamp from more and more public institutions. But replacing “Prison Service” with “Offenders’ Management Service” is not an anti-monarchical gesture so much as a politically correct one.
There's No Rush in Al Franken.
Mike was kind enough to put this up yesterday but I haven't had a chance to do much since I left for work 25 hours ago. This is my coverage of the new Air America, "all liberal all the time" hogwash others call it "Err America" and rightly so.
Mike was kind enough to put this up yesterday but I haven't had a chance to do much since I left for work 25 hours ago. This is my coverage of the new Air America, "all liberal all the time" hogwash others call it "Err America" and rightly so.
S.T. Karnick Presents II: The Omniculture.
I have joked with him before about doing a website called "S.T. Presents" as it has such favorable Disney connotations but he was serious for awhile about doing one called "The Omniculture." Now he's decided on a new name that is Top Secret and I cannot share but, believe me, it's hot. Anyway, this is an old piece of his from August that I never blogged but that you will enjoy concerning society today:
[T]oday's American culture is the world's first omniculture, a place where you can find nearly anything your heart desires. From Puritanism to paganism, from depravity to piety, the Omniculture has a media-delivered lifestyle to help you Be All That You Can Be. While some rock-and-roll musicians are increasingly incorporating Christian spirituality into mainstream fare, there are numerous bands exploring the other end of the scale, such as Marilyn Manson, Rotting Christ, and Cannibal Corpse.
I have joked with him before about doing a website called "S.T. Presents" as it has such favorable Disney connotations but he was serious for awhile about doing one called "The Omniculture." Now he's decided on a new name that is Top Secret and I cannot share but, believe me, it's hot. Anyway, this is an old piece of his from August that I never blogged but that you will enjoy concerning society today:
[T]oday's American culture is the world's first omniculture, a place where you can find nearly anything your heart desires. From Puritanism to paganism, from depravity to piety, the Omniculture has a media-delivered lifestyle to help you Be All That You Can Be. While some rock-and-roll musicians are increasingly incorporating Christian spirituality into mainstream fare, there are numerous bands exploring the other end of the scale, such as Marilyn Manson, Rotting Christ, and Cannibal Corpse.
Samuel Karnick Presents I: Keen Eddie.
Here's a review from a couple days ago in what used to be called the culture section of NRO. It was always my favorite part of the daily but the site, overall, seems to be in decline. However, they are not here as Sam disects and presents his opinions of a show based in Tony Blair's "Cool Brittania."
Here's a review from a couple days ago in what used to be called the culture section of NRO. It was always my favorite part of the daily but the site, overall, seems to be in decline. However, they are not here as Sam disects and presents his opinions of a show based in Tony Blair's "Cool Brittania."
Friday, April 02, 2004
Stoopid People
This of course is no different that Pat Roberson, or Jerry Farwell, or whomever it was saying that 9/11 was caused by the sins of homosexuals. It just goes to show the irrational thinking of religious zealots is as ridiculous over there as it is over here.
Saudi clerics led worshipers in prayers for rain Thursday, blaming a recent drought on sinfulness, including women who unveil themselves or mingle with men.
This of course is no different that Pat Roberson, or Jerry Farwell, or whomever it was saying that 9/11 was caused by the sins of homosexuals. It just goes to show the irrational thinking of religious zealots is as ridiculous over there as it is over here.
Saudi clerics led worshipers in prayers for rain Thursday, blaming a recent drought on sinfulness, including women who unveil themselves or mingle with men.
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It's a Friday Double Feature! A new tradition my brothers that was started last week.
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Leftist Thugs Taking Over.
Here's the very telegenic Michelle Malkin on yet another radical organization hailing from our city. What the heck did Yakov and I do to deserve such cretins?
The group is called "National People's Action." The Washington Post described NPA this week as a "coalition of neighborhood advocacy groups based in Chicago." A more accurate description is left-wing goon squad. This nationwide organization is made up of professional grievance-mongers from the Bronx, N.Y, to Santa Monica, Calif. They warn: "We are black, we are white, we are Latino, we are Asian. We are old, we are young, and we are in your neighborhood!!!!!"
Here's the very telegenic Michelle Malkin on yet another radical organization hailing from our city. What the heck did Yakov and I do to deserve such cretins?
The group is called "National People's Action." The Washington Post described NPA this week as a "coalition of neighborhood advocacy groups based in Chicago." A more accurate description is left-wing goon squad. This nationwide organization is made up of professional grievance-mongers from the Bronx, N.Y, to Santa Monica, Calif. They warn: "We are black, we are white, we are Latino, we are Asian. We are old, we are young, and we are in your neighborhood!!!!!"
Race Exists and Affects Us All.
Yet another book disproving politically motivated scientists like Steven Gould. As I tell students in my courses, "If I said that race had no bearing on rate of skin cancer you'd think I was nuts. Why then do we discount its impact upon other human traits?" This is an excellent review but what else would you expect from The New Criterion which, by the way, just released its April edition.
Yet another book disproving politically motivated scientists like Steven Gould. As I tell students in my courses, "If I said that race had no bearing on rate of skin cancer you'd think I was nuts. Why then do we discount its impact upon other human traits?" This is an excellent review but what else would you expect from The New Criterion which, by the way, just released its April edition.
The Contrarian Lesson from Fallujah.
[I don't necessarily agree but thought Harris's arguments well-stated]
We are trapped. Our enemy knows now that no matter what they do to us, we will not do it back to them. They know now that no matter what insult they offer us, or how deeply they violate us, that we can never bring ourselves to descend to their level of de-civilization. Fallujah should spell the end of the neo-conservative fantasy that all human beings want the same things. It should awake the Bush administration from its dream that what the Arab street really needs is democracy. Fallujah represents the end of the road for that kind of thinking and that kind of talk. And if it doesn't, we are in serious trouble. That is the lesson of Fallujah.
[I don't necessarily agree but thought Harris's arguments well-stated]
We are trapped. Our enemy knows now that no matter what they do to us, we will not do it back to them. They know now that no matter what insult they offer us, or how deeply they violate us, that we can never bring ourselves to descend to their level of de-civilization. Fallujah should spell the end of the neo-conservative fantasy that all human beings want the same things. It should awake the Bush administration from its dream that what the Arab street really needs is democracy. Fallujah represents the end of the road for that kind of thinking and that kind of talk. And if it doesn't, we are in serious trouble. That is the lesson of Fallujah.
The Unique Evil That is the Income Tax.
Nothing else can ruin our lives or steal our freedom like the federal government's power to confiscate our income:
No wonder, noted Chodorov, that Marx and Engels in their Communist Manifesto of 1848 urged on capitalistic countries like America "despotic inroads on the rights of property." So the Manifesto pushed a heavily progressive income tax as one of ten key ways to undermine the market order and advance the march toward socialism.
Nothing else can ruin our lives or steal our freedom like the federal government's power to confiscate our income:
No wonder, noted Chodorov, that Marx and Engels in their Communist Manifesto of 1848 urged on capitalistic countries like America "despotic inroads on the rights of property." So the Manifesto pushed a heavily progressive income tax as one of ten key ways to undermine the market order and advance the march toward socialism.
Sex Week At Yale [From Today's Opinion Journal].
POLLY AWARDS: That's the name for the prizes given each April 1 by the Collegiate Network to the year's most politically correct outrages on American campuses. Tied for first place this year is Yale University for its "sex week," held in February with university funding and using Yale facilities. An advertisement for the week's festivities explained its academic focus this way: "This is sex week, a time for students to ask their dean how to make it last an hour. A time to ask an industry professional (i.e. sex therapist, porn star, magazine executive) how they got into their industries, how sex ties into what they do, and yes, how do you make it last an hour." For the full list of Polly "honors," click onto www.pollyawards.com.
POLLY AWARDS: That's the name for the prizes given each April 1 by the Collegiate Network to the year's most politically correct outrages on American campuses. Tied for first place this year is Yale University for its "sex week," held in February with university funding and using Yale facilities. An advertisement for the week's festivities explained its academic focus this way: "This is sex week, a time for students to ask their dean how to make it last an hour. A time to ask an industry professional (i.e. sex therapist, porn star, magazine executive) how they got into their industries, how sex ties into what they do, and yes, how do you make it last an hour." For the full list of Polly "honors," click onto www.pollyawards.com.
Thursday, April 01, 2004
The Doctor is In.
Stephen Baskerville just published the lead article in the peer-reviewed journal The Independent Review titled, Is There Really a Fatherhood Crisis? that we all must read. Everything you know, and everything you never thought possible is in here. I mean everything. This is a definitive work on the subject of divorce/child support and the violation of men's, women’s, and children’s rights.
If anyone ever doubts the validity of the claim that divorce is being promoted by a leviathan of bureaucracy and political/private agendas, refer them to this article. He stresses the hypocrisy of a government -both state and local, indeed, the two working in unison- that is now promoting marriage and fatherhood, while simultaneously working to dismantle these same institutions.
What really shocked me was the fact that child support investigation can pry into the personal lives of everyone-yes, everyone. Under the guise of heading off potential deadbeat dads, these agencies can peek into the lives of anyone since we are all potentially custodial or non-custodial parents. Another disturbing fact was that "Some sixty thousand government agents, some of them armed, now enforce child support, approximately thirteen times the world-wide number of Drug Enforcement Administration agents." No one has successfully challenged the good doctor on any of his points, in case you have doubt. With twenty pages of text, and five pages of references- not to mention footnotes- you will find this an extremely compelling read… money back guarantied.
In his response to my congratulatory e-mail, Dr. Baskerville wrote:
"I deliberately chose a provocative title that the fatherhood advocates who tell us the half-truths about the fatherhood crisis will find difficult to ignore. There is really no middle ground: Either I am making up references or the government is perpetrating a fraud." He goes on to say, "The timing of this article is fortuitous, as I am scheduled to address the national convention of the Libertarian Party in Atlanta on May 28."
He also told me to, “Please circulate far and wide.”
So go there now and read! Or download the Adobe version, it prints great.
Stephen Baskerville just published the lead article in the peer-reviewed journal The Independent Review titled, Is There Really a Fatherhood Crisis? that we all must read. Everything you know, and everything you never thought possible is in here. I mean everything. This is a definitive work on the subject of divorce/child support and the violation of men's, women’s, and children’s rights.
If anyone ever doubts the validity of the claim that divorce is being promoted by a leviathan of bureaucracy and political/private agendas, refer them to this article. He stresses the hypocrisy of a government -both state and local, indeed, the two working in unison- that is now promoting marriage and fatherhood, while simultaneously working to dismantle these same institutions.
What really shocked me was the fact that child support investigation can pry into the personal lives of everyone-yes, everyone. Under the guise of heading off potential deadbeat dads, these agencies can peek into the lives of anyone since we are all potentially custodial or non-custodial parents. Another disturbing fact was that "Some sixty thousand government agents, some of them armed, now enforce child support, approximately thirteen times the world-wide number of Drug Enforcement Administration agents." No one has successfully challenged the good doctor on any of his points, in case you have doubt. With twenty pages of text, and five pages of references- not to mention footnotes- you will find this an extremely compelling read… money back guarantied.
In his response to my congratulatory e-mail, Dr. Baskerville wrote:
"I deliberately chose a provocative title that the fatherhood advocates who tell us the half-truths about the fatherhood crisis will find difficult to ignore. There is really no middle ground: Either I am making up references or the government is perpetrating a fraud." He goes on to say, "The timing of this article is fortuitous, as I am scheduled to address the national convention of the Libertarian Party in Atlanta on May 28."
He also told me to, “Please circulate far and wide.”
So go there now and read! Or download the Adobe version, it prints great.
Ok, I've been had
April fools everybody. It turns out Howard Stern pulled a fast one on me this morning (see my blog below). If only I hadn't been so disgusted by the "fun without filth" to leave my walkman at home for my daily commute, I would have learned the truth.
I still stand by my earlier statements, however. We live in a country where the government is not to protect us from ourselves. Rather, we live in a country where the government is supposed to protect us from ITSELF. A small and limited government is at the essence of being American. Unfortunately, the government has grown into the Hobbesian leviathan. It is time for our elected officials as well as appointed regulators to read some American history, reduce the size of government, and give the country back to the people.
April fools everybody. It turns out Howard Stern pulled a fast one on me this morning (see my blog below). If only I hadn't been so disgusted by the "fun without filth" to leave my walkman at home for my daily commute, I would have learned the truth.
I still stand by my earlier statements, however. We live in a country where the government is not to protect us from ourselves. Rather, we live in a country where the government is supposed to protect us from ITSELF. A small and limited government is at the essence of being American. Unfortunately, the government has grown into the Hobbesian leviathan. It is time for our elected officials as well as appointed regulators to read some American history, reduce the size of government, and give the country back to the people.
“No, You Can’t Watch Sponge Bob Until After You’ve F----ed Him”.
A Chino California woman pleaded guilty of child abuse for encouraging her 12-year-old daughter to get pregnant, and faces 4 years felony probation and a year of counseling.
The now 13-year-old has given birth, and the 16-year-old father is in Mexico. He will be charged with molestation if he ever comes back.
So this caring, nurturing Mother ruins four lives - her daughter’s, the father’s, her husband’s, and her grand daughter’s – and won’t spend a day in jail.
Oh well, what’s one more mouth to feed for the nanniest of Nanny States.
A Chino California woman pleaded guilty of child abuse for encouraging her 12-year-old daughter to get pregnant, and faces 4 years felony probation and a year of counseling.
The now 13-year-old has given birth, and the 16-year-old father is in Mexico. He will be charged with molestation if he ever comes back.
So this caring, nurturing Mother ruins four lives - her daughter’s, the father’s, her husband’s, and her grand daughter’s – and won’t spend a day in jail.
Oh well, what’s one more mouth to feed for the nanniest of Nanny States.
Ok, now I'm PISSED!
This morning I woke up, as I have for the past 13 years, anticipating listening to Howard Stern. Instead, my ears were assaulted by the Cotex and Lopez Show, or something like that, with the tag line "Fun Without the Filth." Well guess what America, me and 15 Million other listeners WANT the filth!
Howard's New York general manager made an announcement. Due to increased government pressure, Viacom can no longer risk its broadcast licenses nor its stock holders interests to the threat of FCC fines. In other words, thanks to Janet Jackson's boobie and puritanical regulators, free speech has taken a serious blow.
Howard Stern has been assailed for being vulgar and indecent for years. He has endured boycotts of his sponsors (who pay his salary) and millions of dollars in FCC fines. Yet, he has always been there for me from 6 am to 10:30 am, 5 days per week.
He has endured for many reasons but one reason stands above all others. People like him. That's right, people enjoy the thought provoking conversations as well as the sophomoric hygienic. In other words, the community standards that dictate what is indecent fail. Howard is in approximately 50 radio markets and he is number one in or near number one with the listeners that have money. If the communities that determine what is indecent say otherwise about Howard Stern, what standard is the FCC applying?
We live in a country where the government is not to protect us from ourselves. Rather, we live in a country where the government is supposed to protect us from ITSELF. A small and limited government is at the essence of being American. Unfortunately, the government has grown into the Hobbesian leviathan. It is time for our elected officials as well as appointed regulators to read some American history, reduce the size of government, and give the country back to the people.
Free Howard Stern!
This morning I woke up, as I have for the past 13 years, anticipating listening to Howard Stern. Instead, my ears were assaulted by the Cotex and Lopez Show, or something like that, with the tag line "Fun Without the Filth." Well guess what America, me and 15 Million other listeners WANT the filth!
Howard's New York general manager made an announcement. Due to increased government pressure, Viacom can no longer risk its broadcast licenses nor its stock holders interests to the threat of FCC fines. In other words, thanks to Janet Jackson's boobie and puritanical regulators, free speech has taken a serious blow.
Howard Stern has been assailed for being vulgar and indecent for years. He has endured boycotts of his sponsors (who pay his salary) and millions of dollars in FCC fines. Yet, he has always been there for me from 6 am to 10:30 am, 5 days per week.
He has endured for many reasons but one reason stands above all others. People like him. That's right, people enjoy the thought provoking conversations as well as the sophomoric hygienic. In other words, the community standards that dictate what is indecent fail. Howard is in approximately 50 radio markets and he is number one in or near number one with the listeners that have money. If the communities that determine what is indecent say otherwise about Howard Stern, what standard is the FCC applying?
We live in a country where the government is not to protect us from ourselves. Rather, we live in a country where the government is supposed to protect us from ITSELF. A small and limited government is at the essence of being American. Unfortunately, the government has grown into the Hobbesian leviathan. It is time for our elected officials as well as appointed regulators to read some American history, reduce the size of government, and give the country back to the people.
Free Howard Stern!
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I thought I'd throw in one more as the pic of the day below is too tame.
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These girls are supposed to be all Republicans--at least that's what their website said anyway.
The "Should You Reproduce Test."
I know it's 2 in a row from the same source but golly I thought you'd enjoy the questionnaire. I know old CS will score high on it as he's a father waiting to happen!
I know it's 2 in a row from the same source but golly I thought you'd enjoy the questionnaire. I know old CS will score high on it as he's a father waiting to happen!
The 17 Greatest Lines A Man Has Said to a Woman.
This is hilarious. I guarantee that you remember and already love half of them.
This is hilarious. I guarantee that you remember and already love half of them.
This Clarke Thing Actually Helped Bush.
So says Dick Morris who believes that emphasizing National Security always hurts John Kerry and helps his rival. Morris says that the fast growth of Kerry's negative polling will catch up to him by the time of the election. I hope he's right.
So says Dick Morris who believes that emphasizing National Security always hurts John Kerry and helps his rival. Morris says that the fast growth of Kerry's negative polling will catch up to him by the time of the election. I hope he's right.
The Real Patriot Act.
What does it do that's so controversial? Few know but all criticize. It passed with insane majorities in both Houses but now everyone wants to disown it.
In other words, Kerry voted for a piece of legislation which increased the surveillance and investigative powers of the government, but then was shocked when it was actually used by the Justice Department. More likely, as with NAFTA and the war with Iraq, Kerry knew exactly what he was doing, but must now furiously backpedal to comply with the ideology of his leftist constituents.
What does it do that's so controversial? Few know but all criticize. It passed with insane majorities in both Houses but now everyone wants to disown it.
In other words, Kerry voted for a piece of legislation which increased the surveillance and investigative powers of the government, but then was shocked when it was actually used by the Justice Department. More likely, as with NAFTA and the war with Iraq, Kerry knew exactly what he was doing, but must now furiously backpedal to comply with the ideology of his leftist constituents.
Wednesday, March 31, 2004
Quote of the Day.
"George Bush is feeding the terrorists' hatred towards us." Former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright.
I would have worded it thusly: "George Bush may take credit for decimating terrorists by killing them, and that really pisses ‘em off"…See what a difference a few words make? I’m sure that’s what she meant.
"George Bush is feeding the terrorists' hatred towards us." Former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright.
I would have worded it thusly: "George Bush may take credit for decimating terrorists by killing them, and that really pisses ‘em off"…See what a difference a few words make? I’m sure that’s what she meant.
Speaking of Wal-Mart. . .
Chicago is currently experiencing its own whoas in battling the behemoth corporation of consumerism. Wal-Mart had plans to open a store on the West Side. For those who don't know, Chicago being the murder capital of the country, the West-Side is the epicenter of that particular problem. Needless to say, the City could have used in no particular order 1) the jobs Wal-Mart would have created, 2) a much needed retail outlet in a blighted neighborhood, 3) the residual retail traffic the store would have most likely created, and 4) the tax revenues.
Unfortunately, not everyone in the City is for job and revenue creation. A group of alderman are against Wal-Mart coming into the City because they employ non-union labor. Guess who funds those aldermaic reelection campaigns? Yup, unions. Oddly, these same alderman have no problem with Target entering the City. Go figure.
Recently, Chicago has experienced a rash of job losses that also resulted in the loss of union jobs, union dues, and ultimately union power. Just yesterday for example, Radio Flyer, the little red wagon people, closed its manufacturing plant in the City that has existed since the company's inception. Ninety union jobs have been lost and sent to Asia. Is this a case of "outsourcing" that is dooming our American economy? No, it's smart business. Unions do two things that are detrimental. One, they create artificial wage inflation which translates into more expensive goods for consumers; and two, they take A LOT of money out of the wage earner's pocket each month through dues that too often go to fund the salaries and political ambitions of the union bosses.
The union jobs in Chicago aren't coming back. That's a sad fact. Unfortunately, it seems that those in the pockets of the unions would rather have people starve than gainfully employed as a result of their dwindling influence.
Chicago is currently experiencing its own whoas in battling the behemoth corporation of consumerism. Wal-Mart had plans to open a store on the West Side. For those who don't know, Chicago being the murder capital of the country, the West-Side is the epicenter of that particular problem. Needless to say, the City could have used in no particular order 1) the jobs Wal-Mart would have created, 2) a much needed retail outlet in a blighted neighborhood, 3) the residual retail traffic the store would have most likely created, and 4) the tax revenues.
Unfortunately, not everyone in the City is for job and revenue creation. A group of alderman are against Wal-Mart coming into the City because they employ non-union labor. Guess who funds those aldermaic reelection campaigns? Yup, unions. Oddly, these same alderman have no problem with Target entering the City. Go figure.
Recently, Chicago has experienced a rash of job losses that also resulted in the loss of union jobs, union dues, and ultimately union power. Just yesterday for example, Radio Flyer, the little red wagon people, closed its manufacturing plant in the City that has existed since the company's inception. Ninety union jobs have been lost and sent to Asia. Is this a case of "outsourcing" that is dooming our American economy? No, it's smart business. Unions do two things that are detrimental. One, they create artificial wage inflation which translates into more expensive goods for consumers; and two, they take A LOT of money out of the wage earner's pocket each month through dues that too often go to fund the salaries and political ambitions of the union bosses.
The union jobs in Chicago aren't coming back. That's a sad fact. Unfortunately, it seems that those in the pockets of the unions would rather have people starve than gainfully employed as a result of their dwindling influence.
Sharper Image Ionic Breeze Quadra Quackery.
The commercials are ubiquitous, and the pricey units have been found to be ineffective as an air cleaner in the October 2003 edition of Consumer Union, a nonprofit publisher of Consumer Reports.
Sharper Image decided to sue CU and in turn the group filed a motion to strike the lawsuit under California’s Anti-SLAPP (Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation) statute.
I feel sorry for all the people who bought these useless devices, they should’ve checked out Doctor Stephen Barrett’s Quackwatch site and done some diggin’-- hey; maybe they could make a nice planter.
The commercials are ubiquitous, and the pricey units have been found to be ineffective as an air cleaner in the October 2003 edition of Consumer Union, a nonprofit publisher of Consumer Reports.
Sharper Image decided to sue CU and in turn the group filed a motion to strike the lawsuit under California’s Anti-SLAPP (Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation) statute.
I feel sorry for all the people who bought these useless devices, they should’ve checked out Doctor Stephen Barrett’s Quackwatch site and done some diggin’-- hey; maybe they could make a nice planter.
Skanky Chicks, Geeky Late Nights, Chapin Nation.
These two really are postergirls for this site.
These two really are postergirls for this site.
McDonalds: Shareholders are Loving It.
My fiancee says I always go there. I go 5 days a year when we have our institute days. She's right though in a way, as I went two of the last three Thursdays, due to poor planning from my goofus-toothus boss. The Standard addresses their amazing comeback and 1 year 20% increase in same store sales. Sadly, their lawyers are making them get rid of super sizes which wouldn't be as bad if it didn't spring chiefly from fears of bogus lawsuits.
My fiancee says I always go there. I go 5 days a year when we have our institute days. She's right though in a way, as I went two of the last three Thursdays, due to poor planning from my goofus-toothus boss. The Standard addresses their amazing comeback and 1 year 20% increase in same store sales. Sadly, their lawyers are making them get rid of super sizes which wouldn't be as bad if it didn't spring chiefly from fears of bogus lawsuits.
Defending Wal-Mart.
Well, I'm glad someone does because that store has the most incredible prices I've ever seen. This is true even though I haven't been in one since 1998 when I moved downtown full-time. Here, Wal-Mart comes under attack as slavery mongers when they attempt to save a bleak, crime infested area of LA (while they make a profit of course). Go freedom, go free markets, go capitalism!
Well, I'm glad someone does because that store has the most incredible prices I've ever seen. This is true even though I haven't been in one since 1998 when I moved downtown full-time. Here, Wal-Mart comes under attack as slavery mongers when they attempt to save a bleak, crime infested area of LA (while they make a profit of course). Go freedom, go free markets, go capitalism!
Free Howard Stern!
And leave "under God" in the pledge as well. No, Common Sense didn't write this article. Law School and chewing gum have proven to be major obstacles to him defending Howard. It'd be easy to confuse its authorship with him though as the writer says he is a "libertarian hedonist." I'd also warn that he ought to be careful about saying that he has two stunning and sexy daughters as he may suddenly find himself a lifelong friend of Yakov Bok's.
And leave "under God" in the pledge as well. No, Common Sense didn't write this article. Law School and chewing gum have proven to be major obstacles to him defending Howard. It'd be easy to confuse its authorship with him though as the writer says he is a "libertarian hedonist." I'd also warn that he ought to be careful about saying that he has two stunning and sexy daughters as he may suddenly find himself a lifelong friend of Yakov Bok's.
There Are No Frivolous Drugs and Big Pharma is Producing Glorious Things.
The Blogger Lord Glen Reynolds appears here in a piece concerning drugs and their benefits in TCS.
Likewise, although drugs that relieve depression are viewed by some as being frivolous -- standing in the path of the "authentic" existence that intellectuals always seem to define in terms of sadness rather than joy -- they are quite literally lifesavers for some people who might otherwise commit suicide. And even for those who wouldn't, they're an alternative to a life of misery. If you're pro-misery, I guess that's bad, but I'm not.
The Blogger Lord Glen Reynolds appears here in a piece concerning drugs and their benefits in TCS.
Likewise, although drugs that relieve depression are viewed by some as being frivolous -- standing in the path of the "authentic" existence that intellectuals always seem to define in terms of sadness rather than joy -- they are quite literally lifesavers for some people who might otherwise commit suicide. And even for those who wouldn't, they're an alternative to a life of misery. If you're pro-misery, I guess that's bad, but I'm not.
Message to Washington: You Jerks Can Not Spend Money and Still Get Elected.
This article refuses to mention Bush in it as Heritage is a pretty rah rah think tank but I wish our guy would read it and take note. Solid conservative principles, I remain convinced, are a winner at the polling place. All Republicans need to adopt them. By the way, it looks like Pete's link below is a winner. I just printed it off.
This article refuses to mention Bush in it as Heritage is a pretty rah rah think tank but I wish our guy would read it and take note. Solid conservative principles, I remain convinced, are a winner at the polling place. All Republicans need to adopt them. By the way, it looks like Pete's link below is a winner. I just printed it off.
It's Wictory Wednesday; Let's Blog for Bush.
And hunt some Orc, in the words of Aragorn. Poor Condi Rice, poor GWB, poor us the American voter. Have you thought about taking our guy's back? The blogs down below all have and, believe me, he could use your time and/or money if you have it. Is there a better or more worthy goal around than keeping that great tool from Taxachusetts away from the judiciary?
And hunt some Orc, in the words of Aragorn. Poor Condi Rice, poor GWB, poor us the American voter. Have you thought about taking our guy's back? The blogs down below all have and, believe me, he could use your time and/or money if you have it. Is there a better or more worthy goal around than keeping that great tool from Taxachusetts away from the judiciary?
Romance in the Information Age.
Quite by accident, I came across this essay at The New Atlantis that Christine Rosen recently wrote. The title immediately caught my eye, and the twelve page paper did not disappoint. Expecting a re-hash of the debate on online dating - pro or con - I was enthralled with a cogent dissertation on all aspects of technology that influenced, and continues to influence, our personal lives – often to the detriment of our achieving fulfilling relations with the opposite sex.
She calls to task the feminist movement early on, and proceeds to critique the ramifications of technological advancements on dating in our post-courting era.
From cars, to the pill, to internet speed dating, and everything in between, she covers a lot of territory--all with the caveat that we can’t go back, and must come up with something new that works. Obviously with a 50%+ divorce rate and a 40% single adult population, something is broken. Although a bit short on solutions of a pragmatic nature, her advice to the individual is sound, and her observations are astute.
With topics like, "The Modern-Day Matchmaker", and "Test-Driving Your Soul Mate", I can’t even decide on a quote to entice you to read. So I’ll just end with her ending: Goethe wrote, “We should do our utmost to encourage the Beautiful, for the Useful encourages itself.” There is an eminent usefulness to many of our technologies—e-mail and cell phones allow us to span great distances to communicate with family, friends, and lovers, and the Internet connects us to worlds unknown. But they are less successful at encouraging the flourishing of the lasting and beautiful. Like the Beautiful, love occurs in unexpected places, often not where it is being sought. It can flourish only if we accept that our technologies and our science can never fully explain it.
Quite by accident, I came across this essay at The New Atlantis that Christine Rosen recently wrote. The title immediately caught my eye, and the twelve page paper did not disappoint. Expecting a re-hash of the debate on online dating - pro or con - I was enthralled with a cogent dissertation on all aspects of technology that influenced, and continues to influence, our personal lives – often to the detriment of our achieving fulfilling relations with the opposite sex.
She calls to task the feminist movement early on, and proceeds to critique the ramifications of technological advancements on dating in our post-courting era.
From cars, to the pill, to internet speed dating, and everything in between, she covers a lot of territory--all with the caveat that we can’t go back, and must come up with something new that works. Obviously with a 50%+ divorce rate and a 40% single adult population, something is broken. Although a bit short on solutions of a pragmatic nature, her advice to the individual is sound, and her observations are astute.
With topics like, "The Modern-Day Matchmaker", and "Test-Driving Your Soul Mate", I can’t even decide on a quote to entice you to read. So I’ll just end with her ending: Goethe wrote, “We should do our utmost to encourage the Beautiful, for the Useful encourages itself.” There is an eminent usefulness to many of our technologies—e-mail and cell phones allow us to span great distances to communicate with family, friends, and lovers, and the Internet connects us to worlds unknown. But they are less successful at encouraging the flourishing of the lasting and beautiful. Like the Beautiful, love occurs in unexpected places, often not where it is being sought. It can flourish only if we accept that our technologies and our science can never fully explain it.
Tuesday, March 30, 2004
What sorts of books, then, are being written by today's top scholars?
Books make up the heart of the scholarly enterprise. Articles disappear, media analyses vaporize, and classroom lectures effervesce; books endure. They build the edifice of knowledge and potentially acquire an influence across the generations.
What sorts of books, then, are being written by today's top scholars? Daniel Pipes explains. (This article is from the Jerusalem Post so you may have to register in order to read it.)
Books make up the heart of the scholarly enterprise. Articles disappear, media analyses vaporize, and classroom lectures effervesce; books endure. They build the edifice of knowledge and potentially acquire an influence across the generations.
What sorts of books, then, are being written by today's top scholars? Daniel Pipes explains. (This article is from the Jerusalem Post so you may have to register in order to read it.)
pic taken down
God is Back in Vogue.
Thanks to Mel Gibson. This could also be due to His proven effectiveness in people's lives should they ask for His help but think what you want. I respect your diversity.
Thanks to Mel Gibson. This could also be due to His proven effectiveness in people's lives should they ask for His help but think what you want. I respect your diversity.
Economic Slowdown in July?
The resourceful Irwin Stelzer thinks so. A 15% rise in oil prices, the lack of a jobs rebound along with outrageous federal spending all influence his conclusion that the summer will not be good times economically.
The resourceful Irwin Stelzer thinks so. A 15% rise in oil prices, the lack of a jobs rebound along with outrageous federal spending all influence his conclusion that the summer will not be good times economically.
Mencken: In Defense of Women.
Thanks so much Lew Rockwell for posting yet another freebie everyone will love. This is Johnny Q-Bacca's favorite book and it's anything but a defense of women. It's so politically incorrect I bet the site that posted it has hate crime charges against it (I'm not kidding). Here's some titles of some sub-chapters:
17. Fundamental Motives
18. The Process of Courtship
19. The Actual Husband
20. The Unattainable Ideal
21. The Effect on the Race
22. Compulsory Marriage
23. Extra-Legal Devices
24. Intermezzo on Monogamy
25. Late Marriages
26. Disparate Unions
27. The Charm of Mystery
28. Woman as Wife
29. Marriage and the Law
30. The Emancipated Housewife
Thanks so much Lew Rockwell for posting yet another freebie everyone will love. This is Johnny Q-Bacca's favorite book and it's anything but a defense of women. It's so politically incorrect I bet the site that posted it has hate crime charges against it (I'm not kidding). Here's some titles of some sub-chapters:
17. Fundamental Motives
18. The Process of Courtship
19. The Actual Husband
20. The Unattainable Ideal
21. The Effect on the Race
22. Compulsory Marriage
23. Extra-Legal Devices
24. Intermezzo on Monogamy
25. Late Marriages
26. Disparate Unions
27. The Charm of Mystery
28. Woman as Wife
29. Marriage and the Law
30. The Emancipated Housewife
I Can't Get it Up and I Couldn't Be Happier About it.
This man has been freed from his sexual obsession with women by the ravages of diabetes and he's writing this to let us know how great life is by not being focused on hips and butt all the time. He may well be right.
At the same time, appeals to sexuality have ceased to sway my judgment greatly–a beautiful woman no longer makes me burn. About the most she can do is cause my insides a brief flutter. She is a lovely sight to be sure, like sunset over the Yellow Sea or the blue tile rooftops of Seoul under snow. But feminine beauty now lacks the power it once had over me. My work does not suffer as a result.
This man has been freed from his sexual obsession with women by the ravages of diabetes and he's writing this to let us know how great life is by not being focused on hips and butt all the time. He may well be right.
At the same time, appeals to sexuality have ceased to sway my judgment greatly–a beautiful woman no longer makes me burn. About the most she can do is cause my insides a brief flutter. She is a lovely sight to be sure, like sunset over the Yellow Sea or the blue tile rooftops of Seoul under snow. But feminine beauty now lacks the power it once had over me. My work does not suffer as a result.
The Unborn Victims of Violence Act.
Cathy Young with her usual high grade journalism. On the Scott Peterson Act as it has often been called.
Unfortunately, many abortion-rights supporters really are ideological zealots who oppose any restrictions on abortion any time in the pregnancy. Yet most Americans, including most who consider themselves prochoice, occupy a middle ground on the wrenching issue of abortion. In this conflict, extremism is a ticket to defeat.
Cathy Young with her usual high grade journalism. On the Scott Peterson Act as it has often been called.
Unfortunately, many abortion-rights supporters really are ideological zealots who oppose any restrictions on abortion any time in the pregnancy. Yet most Americans, including most who consider themselves prochoice, occupy a middle ground on the wrenching issue of abortion. In this conflict, extremism is a ticket to defeat.
Monday, March 29, 2004
Jesse Jackson, political novice or political bafoon?
Jesse Jackson, fresh from his appearance at International A.N.S.W.E.R.'s Chicago Hate Fest (see last week's post from Fire and myself) is once again proving to be everyone's favorite political bafoon. He's now upset that that election registrars are not allowed to sign up voters throughout the state rather than just in counties where they are appointed. Is this a typical "Big Government" move by a Democrat? It is a Jesse bitching about a race issue in a homogenous county? Or is it Jesse showing that he really doesn't know much about the workings of government and he is simply trying to point the finger at "the man"? I think I'm going to peruse the "dead beat dad" websites and search for his name.
Jesse Jackson, fresh from his appearance at International A.N.S.W.E.R.'s Chicago Hate Fest (see last week's post from Fire and myself) is once again proving to be everyone's favorite political bafoon. He's now upset that that election registrars are not allowed to sign up voters throughout the state rather than just in counties where they are appointed. Is this a typical "Big Government" move by a Democrat? It is a Jesse bitching about a race issue in a homogenous county? Or is it Jesse showing that he really doesn't know much about the workings of government and he is simply trying to point the finger at "the man"? I think I'm going to peruse the "dead beat dad" websites and search for his name.
Why Won't Politicians Address the Real Issue?
My state of Illinois is leading the charge to import low cost drugs from Canada. The Chicago Tribune today printed this example of clear thinking by one of the Chicago area's more influential Representatives: "Importation is the one way you deal with the pricing of drugs," said Rep. Rahm Emanuel (D-Ill.), who has teamed with Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich to push the issue and has co-sponsored one of the bills in Congress.
Two paragraphs later, the same article also states "Because Canada has a nationwide health system with price controls, prescription drugs sold north of the border are 30 percent to 80 percent cheaper than in the U.S., depending on the drug." The key phrase is "price controls." Why won't any politician acknowledge that the fight for lower drug costs is a trade issue? If other countries were to remove their price controls and start helping pay for drug R&D; - which is why U.S. consumers pay higher prices, our prices would be lower. Instead, it looks like our allustrious leaders in Washington and the 50 state houses prefer to clog our already heavily burden stautory codes with yet another law that will be hard to enforce. Let's all give a big cheer to one more step towards big government!
My state of Illinois is leading the charge to import low cost drugs from Canada. The Chicago Tribune today printed this example of clear thinking by one of the Chicago area's more influential Representatives: "Importation is the one way you deal with the pricing of drugs," said Rep. Rahm Emanuel (D-Ill.), who has teamed with Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich to push the issue and has co-sponsored one of the bills in Congress.
Two paragraphs later, the same article also states "Because Canada has a nationwide health system with price controls, prescription drugs sold north of the border are 30 percent to 80 percent cheaper than in the U.S., depending on the drug." The key phrase is "price controls." Why won't any politician acknowledge that the fight for lower drug costs is a trade issue? If other countries were to remove their price controls and start helping pay for drug R&D; - which is why U.S. consumers pay higher prices, our prices would be lower. Instead, it looks like our allustrious leaders in Washington and the 50 state houses prefer to clog our already heavily burden stautory codes with yet another law that will be hard to enforce. Let's all give a big cheer to one more step towards big government!
Supersize it!
The French, those great purveyors of culture or so we are led to believe, are apparently McDonald's largest customers outside of the U.S. (no pun intended but perhaps a bit of foreshadowing). For some reason, I take great joy in knowing that the French, with their unwarranted opinion of cultural supremacy, are no better than Joe Six pack on his lunch break from the cubicle farm.
The French, those great purveyors of culture or so we are led to believe, are apparently McDonald's largest customers outside of the U.S. (no pun intended but perhaps a bit of foreshadowing). For some reason, I take great joy in knowing that the French, with their unwarranted opinion of cultural supremacy, are no better than Joe Six pack on his lunch break from the cubicle farm.
When I think of medical expertise, I thing "Austria!"
Picking your nose and eating it is one of the best ways to stay healthy, according to a top Austrian doctor.
Picking your nose and eating it is one of the best ways to stay healthy, according to a top Austrian doctor.
God Bless America!
The Unexpected Domestic Preference of Today's Young Women.
Hmm, stay home with first degree biological relations or pretend that a boring, monotous workplace is Nirvanna? It's a wonder so many bought into the feminist lie for so long but that's more a statement about media and their own desire to conform than anything else.
Hmm, stay home with first degree biological relations or pretend that a boring, monotous workplace is Nirvanna? It's a wonder so many bought into the feminist lie for so long but that's more a statement about media and their own desire to conform than anything else.
Bob Dylan Rules.
This is a review of the film, "Masked and Anonymous." A better title for Dylan would be "Transcendent and Ubiquitous" but they didn't ask for my help when producing it. Hey, I'm glad his electric stuff exploded the folk rock movement.
This is a review of the film, "Masked and Anonymous." A better title for Dylan would be "Transcendent and Ubiquitous" but they didn't ask for my help when producing it. Hey, I'm glad his electric stuff exploded the folk rock movement.
Of Hubris and the Human Condition.
Stellar work here from TCS. Contrite yet thoughtful analysis of why Americans should brag less and remind themselves of failure whenever possible. It's a mandate we all should follow.
Stellar work here from TCS. Contrite yet thoughtful analysis of why Americans should brag less and remind themselves of failure whenever possible. It's a mandate we all should follow.
Howard Zinn, The Leftist Liar Plays Historian.
I watched back episodes of The Sopranos until I saw the kid reading Zinn's "People's History of the US." Then I turned off the tv never to watch it again. I was downright excited when I saw Horowitz's link to this review by Michael Kazin of Dissent. You know you're a jag when your fellow leftists point out your politicizing of academic material. At first I hoped that it was Horowitz himself reviewing Zinn but this is the next best thing.
I watched back episodes of The Sopranos until I saw the kid reading Zinn's "People's History of the US." Then I turned off the tv never to watch it again. I was downright excited when I saw Horowitz's link to this review by Michael Kazin of Dissent. You know you're a jag when your fellow leftists point out your politicizing of academic material. At first I hoped that it was Horowitz himself reviewing Zinn but this is the next best thing.
Political Intrigue.
A quick summation of Democratic manipulations at their grand gala. I like the fact that they made Daschle sit at the back. Gore comes off as his typically clueless self.
A quick summation of Democratic manipulations at their grand gala. I like the fact that they made Daschle sit at the back. Gore comes off as his typically clueless self.
This Week with the Swings.
Well, our friends (father and son combo) out in Maryland have two pieces for you this week. Shane's concerns America's atheists versus our Christians and Buddy's mentions the Clintons and their profiteering.
Well, our friends (father and son combo) out in Maryland have two pieces for you this week. Shane's concerns America's atheists versus our Christians and Buddy's mentions the Clintons and their profiteering.