In an interesting look at Union dynamics, accroding to The Detroit News article: UAW pushes into Canada, the UAW is trying to unionize a Honda plant in Ontario.
As the Canadian Auto Workers are already well-established in Cnaada, what is the deal with the UAW pushing onto their turf? The answer of course is members and their dues money.
Union membership in the US in the private sector is down significantly, as reported in the Detroit News the UAW’s U.S. membership ranks have fallen below 625,000 from 1.5 million in 1980. As such thwere's a need for more bodies for their dues. Canada is seeing an increase in Union membershiop, for example, once again according to the Detroit News, the CAW has more than doubled its membership to 265,000 since 1985.
So in a quest for more bodies, dues and of course the power and perks that follow them, the UAW is aggressively trying to expand in Ontario.
The problem apparently is that the Honda employees don't seem to enthused about joing any Union:
Gibson said he doesn’t believe Honda would close up shop if workers established a union. But “I don’t think we’ll see any (union) activity here,” he said.
Al Gonneau, a contract pipefitter at the plant, also predicts that status quo for Alliston. Basing his assessment on restroom graffiti, Gonneau said: “I’d say it’s 60 to 70 percent against.”
Friday, July 09, 2004
Tuesday, July 06, 2004
PPOs are only worth the paper they're printed on
And perhaps even less than that.
From the Detroit Free PressCourt orders were not enough to save woman
On the kitchen floor lay Paulette Litzan, ... who police say was killed by her ex-boyfriend, the father of the boy who found her body.
. . .
She had gone to police. She had gone to court. She had gotten a personal protection order against Stanley years ago and had filed for another -- which was denied -- three months before she was killed.
Her slaying was predictable and avoidable, said those who knew her. And to domestic violence experts, Litzan is a symbol of a flawed law enforcement system that too often ignores the pleas of women.
It should be noted that the PPO was not the only interface her boyfriend had with the justice system:
-in 1997 he was convicted of assault against her and given probation
-Her family and friends said Litzan filed many reports with the Sterling Heights Police Department describing harassing calls, violent behavior and threats.
-Court records show Stanley was convicted of at least two assaults related to Litzan, including an attack on her boyfriend a few years ago.
-He also pleaded guilty to domestic violence in 41A District Court in Sterling Heights for an April 2003 incident. He was ordered to stay away from Litzan for a year, but he violated his probation, court records show.
-he was charged with stalking. His last court appearance was two days before Litzan's death.
He also had been beating his son's dog with a hammer. Telling their son he would someday kill his mother. Stealing Litzan's cell phone and threatening all the men in the address book -- even young friends of Litzan's other son, a teenager.
Every possible sign that he intended to do Ms. Litzan severe harm was well and truly present, how the judge turned down her request for the second PPO is quite astonishing. But even if it had been granted the PPO would have done no good for her on the day he murdered her.
As the article states, the "system" clearly failed her and was clearly incapable of protecting her, reliance on such a system for protection is clearly misplaced for victims of domestic violence.
From the Detroit Free PressCourt orders were not enough to save woman
On the kitchen floor lay Paulette Litzan, ... who police say was killed by her ex-boyfriend, the father of the boy who found her body.
. . .
She had gone to police. She had gone to court. She had gotten a personal protection order against Stanley years ago and had filed for another -- which was denied -- three months before she was killed.
Her slaying was predictable and avoidable, said those who knew her. And to domestic violence experts, Litzan is a symbol of a flawed law enforcement system that too often ignores the pleas of women.
It should be noted that the PPO was not the only interface her boyfriend had with the justice system:
-in 1997 he was convicted of assault against her and given probation
-Her family and friends said Litzan filed many reports with the Sterling Heights Police Department describing harassing calls, violent behavior and threats.
-Court records show Stanley was convicted of at least two assaults related to Litzan, including an attack on her boyfriend a few years ago.
-He also pleaded guilty to domestic violence in 41A District Court in Sterling Heights for an April 2003 incident. He was ordered to stay away from Litzan for a year, but he violated his probation, court records show.
-he was charged with stalking. His last court appearance was two days before Litzan's death.
He also had been beating his son's dog with a hammer. Telling their son he would someday kill his mother. Stealing Litzan's cell phone and threatening all the men in the address book -- even young friends of Litzan's other son, a teenager.
Every possible sign that he intended to do Ms. Litzan severe harm was well and truly present, how the judge turned down her request for the second PPO is quite astonishing. But even if it had been granted the PPO would have done no good for her on the day he murdered her.
As the article states, the "system" clearly failed her and was clearly incapable of protecting her, reliance on such a system for protection is clearly misplaced for victims of domestic violence.
Moore deceptively claimed that Saddam's Iraq had never murdered an American
As noted at Fahrenheit Fact Blog,
Fahrenheit asserts that Saddam’s Iraq was a nation that “had never attacked the United States. A nation that had never threatened to attack the United States. A nation that had never murdered a single American citizen.”
Jake Tapper (ABC News): You declare in the film that Hussein’s regime had never killed an American …
Moore: That isn’t what I said. Quote the movie directly.
Tapper: What is the quote exactly?
Moore: “Murdered.” The government of Iraq did not commit a premeditated murder on an American citizen. I’d like you to point out one.
Fahrenheit Fact then points to a series of incidents that Saddam has been implicated in. However Fahrenheit neglects to mention the USS Stark Incident.
In 1987, an Iraqi Mirage launched two Exocet missiles at the Stark, after the Stark had radioed the aircraft and requested it identify itself. The attack killed 37 Americans. Firing missiles at an American vessel in international waters after it had identified itself is certainly killing, if not murder.
Fahrenheit asserts that Saddam’s Iraq was a nation that “had never attacked the United States. A nation that had never threatened to attack the United States. A nation that had never murdered a single American citizen.”
Jake Tapper (ABC News): You declare in the film that Hussein’s regime had never killed an American …
Moore: That isn’t what I said. Quote the movie directly.
Tapper: What is the quote exactly?
Moore: “Murdered.” The government of Iraq did not commit a premeditated murder on an American citizen. I’d like you to point out one.
Fahrenheit Fact then points to a series of incidents that Saddam has been implicated in. However Fahrenheit neglects to mention the USS Stark Incident.
In 1987, an Iraqi Mirage launched two Exocet missiles at the Stark, after the Stark had radioed the aircraft and requested it identify itself. The attack killed 37 Americans. Firing missiles at an American vessel in international waters after it had identified itself is certainly killing, if not murder.
Thursday, July 01, 2004
The International VIN Trade
And we're not talking about the French word for wine either.
As noted in The Detroit News Article: Too many cars, too few digits, US Auto producers are running out of Vehicle Identification Numbers. The problem is a nice example of problems with centralized and anticipatory planning: a numerical scheme started in 1981 that was supposed to last 30 years when designed is now facing a shortage.
As simply adding digits to the 17 digit code would cause some massive reprogramming efforts, one of the creative ideas floated is to buy more of the VINS from other nations such as Botswana and other countries as [m]ore than two dozen countries, from Armenia to Zimbabwe, have up to 288 WMI codes each. All are dormant. Would this be a case of in-sourcing VIN numbers to offset outsourcing in other areas?
The article also has a nice graphical explanation that demonstrates how to decode your VIN number.
As noted in The Detroit News Article: Too many cars, too few digits, US Auto producers are running out of Vehicle Identification Numbers. The problem is a nice example of problems with centralized and anticipatory planning: a numerical scheme started in 1981 that was supposed to last 30 years when designed is now facing a shortage.
As simply adding digits to the 17 digit code would cause some massive reprogramming efforts, one of the creative ideas floated is to buy more of the VINS from other nations such as Botswana and other countries as [m]ore than two dozen countries, from Armenia to Zimbabwe, have up to 288 WMI codes each. All are dormant. Would this be a case of in-sourcing VIN numbers to offset outsourcing in other areas?
The article also has a nice graphical explanation that demonstrates how to decode your VIN number.
Fieger Features Fahrenheiht 911 at Film Board Post
As noted in The Detroit News Article Fieger's '9/11' Film Contest Should Hit Cutting Room Floor, Geoffrey Fieger, Michigan's flamboyant Plaintiff's attorney has now
decided to use his position to promote Michael Moore’s new film, “Fahrenheit 9/11,” an anti-Bush diatribe that the Michigan filmmaker hopes will influence the outcome of this fall’s presidential election.
Fieger is offering a $2,500 scholarship to the high school student who writes the best essay about the R-rated film. The prize money, Fieger notes, will come out of his own pocket. But he is using his state office and Web site to promote the contest.
Interesting, a Democrat, appointed by a Democrat Governor, using a Michigan Executive Agency Office to assist a Democrat candidate for office? Say it isn't so!
decided to use his position to promote Michael Moore’s new film, “Fahrenheit 9/11,” an anti-Bush diatribe that the Michigan filmmaker hopes will influence the outcome of this fall’s presidential election.
Fieger is offering a $2,500 scholarship to the high school student who writes the best essay about the R-rated film. The prize money, Fieger notes, will come out of his own pocket. But he is using his state office and Web site to promote the contest.
Interesting, a Democrat, appointed by a Democrat Governor, using a Michigan Executive Agency Office to assist a Democrat candidate for office? Say it isn't so!
Thursday, June 24, 2004
Dog Blogging Moment
A Picture of My dog Tova as she leaps for a red squirrel. Carnival of the Cat bloggers take that@
Wednesday, June 23, 2004
South Korea's Leader Gets It
Following the beheading of Kim Sun-il, an innocent South Korean civilian in Iraq by Islamist terrorists, South Korea's President Roh Moo-hyun vowed to "deal sternly" with terrorism and push ahead with a large troop expansion as reported in the AP via the Detroit News.
While some South Koreans protested with placardsreading "Bush and Roh killed Kim Sun-il" and "We don't want to die. Korean troops get out." Placing the blame away from the terorrists and being as eager as the Spanish and French to capitulate, the average South Korean is made of sterner stuff.
I Have friends who served in Vietnam who either worked with or were near South Korean units and held the ROK units in high regard and respect. From their stories and from reading about the history of the ROK participation in Vietnam, it is a well known fact, and the terrorists should have known this, that messing with South Koreans is a very bad idea.
Hopefully the President Roh Moo-hyun will send not just the Engineers and Medics but combat troops to guard them and give the Islamist cowards a demonstration of exactly why its a very Bad Idea to kill innocent South Koreans.
He's right not to buckle to teerorrism, and his promised of sending even more troops is exactly the right response. It not only does not comply with the Islamists demands but does the opposite showing the guts and resolve of SOuth Korea in the face of these threats. I daresay the Islamists are going to be in for a rude awakening if they mess with South Koreans again.
While some South Koreans protested with placardsreading "Bush and Roh killed Kim Sun-il" and "We don't want to die. Korean troops get out." Placing the blame away from the terorrists and being as eager as the Spanish and French to capitulate, the average South Korean is made of sterner stuff.
I Have friends who served in Vietnam who either worked with or were near South Korean units and held the ROK units in high regard and respect. From their stories and from reading about the history of the ROK participation in Vietnam, it is a well known fact, and the terrorists should have known this, that messing with South Koreans is a very bad idea.
Hopefully the President Roh Moo-hyun will send not just the Engineers and Medics but combat troops to guard them and give the Islamist cowards a demonstration of exactly why its a very Bad Idea to kill innocent South Koreans.
He's right not to buckle to teerorrism, and his promised of sending even more troops is exactly the right response. It not only does not comply with the Islamists demands but does the opposite showing the guts and resolve of SOuth Korea in the face of these threats. I daresay the Islamists are going to be in for a rude awakening if they mess with South Koreans again.
Iran will release detained British Sailors
Iran has announced it will release the 8 detained British sailors it seized after they allegedly entered 1000 meters into Iranian territorial waters.
However, the Iranians publicly displayed the sailors on Arab television:
the sailors, who were shown on Iranian television blindfolded and seated cross-legged on the ground.
and
On Tuesday, two sailors were shown on television apologizing for mistakenly entering Iran’s territorial waters. They read from a "prepared script".
No word yet on whether Iran will release the boats they seized.
Iran did the smart thing in immediately releasing the sailors rather than putting them on trial as they had previously threatened.
However, the Iranians publicly displayed the sailors on Arab television:
the sailors, who were shown on Iranian television blindfolded and seated cross-legged on the ground.
and
On Tuesday, two sailors were shown on television apologizing for mistakenly entering Iran’s territorial waters. They read from a "prepared script".
No word yet on whether Iran will release the boats they seized.
Iran did the smart thing in immediately releasing the sailors rather than putting them on trial as they had previously threatened.
Tuesday, June 22, 2004
Airshow Photos
With the exception of the Texan 2 and the F117, all of the aircraft depicted are privately own and flown.
Monday, June 21, 2004
Iranian Boat Grab Update
This update is from the UK Ministry of Defence:
The Ministry of Defence can confirm that eight Royal navy personnel from the Royal Navy training team based in southern Iraq have been detained by the Iranian authorities while delivering a boat from Umm Qasr to Basrah. The team members were travelling in three boats (two Boston Whalers and one British Army Combat Support Boat) along the Shatt al Arab waterway on 21 June. The boats were unarmed but the crews were carrying their personal weapons.
The Foreign & Commonwealth Office is liaising with the Iranian Government to resolve the situation.
The Ministry of Defence can confirm that eight Royal navy personnel from the Royal Navy training team based in southern Iraq have been detained by the Iranian authorities while delivering a boat from Umm Qasr to Basrah. The team members were travelling in three boats (two Boston Whalers and one British Army Combat Support Boat) along the Shatt al Arab waterway on 21 June. The boats were unarmed but the crews were carrying their personal weapons.
The Foreign & Commonwealth Office is liaising with the Iranian Government to resolve the situation.
Iranians Grab British Patrol boats
Three British Patrol Boats with 8 crewman on board have been seized by the Iranians.
Apparently these boats regularly patrol the Iraq/Iran maritime border in the Shatt-al-Arab waterway.
Iran’s state-run, Arabic language Al-Alam television station reported that the three British ships entered Iranian territorial waters not far from the Iran-Iraq border.
“Iranian forces confiscated the ships and eight military personnel on board,” the report said.
Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Hamid Reza Asefi, confirmed the report, according to Iran’s main Persian-language TV channel.
“Interrogation of those detained will continue until the matter is clarified,” Asefi was quoted as saying.
The Iranian TV report said British crewmembers were carrying maps and weapons. It also said the ships were seized about 11 a.m. between the Bahmanshir and Arvand rivers, which would put them in the Shatt-al-Arab waterway east of the Iraqi city of Faw.
The ministry said there were no British warships operating in the Shatt-al-Arab waterway but some smaller vessels were there.
“We are assisting the Iraqi water police there so it may be one of those vessels,” a spokesman said on condition of anonymity.
The Foreign Office said British diplomats in Tehran had been in contact with the Iranian government but it was still unclear what had happened.
From the Toronto Star
It certainly looks like Iran is trying to act tough in the face of continuing evidence that its "peaceful" nuclear program is being used for weapons development. Additionally if this seizure causes problems and prevents Britisah patrolling of the waterway, thereby enhancing the chances of Iran to smuggle weapons and people into Iraq, I'm sure the Iranians won't mind that either.
Apparently these boats regularly patrol the Iraq/Iran maritime border in the Shatt-al-Arab waterway.
Iran’s state-run, Arabic language Al-Alam television station reported that the three British ships entered Iranian territorial waters not far from the Iran-Iraq border.
“Iranian forces confiscated the ships and eight military personnel on board,” the report said.
Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Hamid Reza Asefi, confirmed the report, according to Iran’s main Persian-language TV channel.
“Interrogation of those detained will continue until the matter is clarified,” Asefi was quoted as saying.
The Iranian TV report said British crewmembers were carrying maps and weapons. It also said the ships were seized about 11 a.m. between the Bahmanshir and Arvand rivers, which would put them in the Shatt-al-Arab waterway east of the Iraqi city of Faw.
The ministry said there were no British warships operating in the Shatt-al-Arab waterway but some smaller vessels were there.
“We are assisting the Iraqi water police there so it may be one of those vessels,” a spokesman said on condition of anonymity.
The Foreign Office said British diplomats in Tehran had been in contact with the Iranian government but it was still unclear what had happened.
From the Toronto Star
It certainly looks like Iran is trying to act tough in the face of continuing evidence that its "peaceful" nuclear program is being used for weapons development. Additionally if this seizure causes problems and prevents Britisah patrolling of the waterway, thereby enhancing the chances of Iran to smuggle weapons and people into Iraq, I'm sure the Iranians won't mind that either.
Father's Day Airshow Report
For my first Father's Day as a new Father I was taken out to the 2004 Grosse Isle Airshow and had a great time.
Pictures and possibly a video clip to follow shortly.
Pictures and possibly a video clip to follow shortly.
Wednesday, June 16, 2004
Venona - Soviet espionage against America in the 40s and 50s
Venona was the name of the US program that decrypted and read Soviet spies' messages on their activities in the United States.
The Soviet espionage activities in the 40's and 50's were quite pervasive. Among those mentioned in the cables are the Rosenbergs, Alger Hiss, and Klaus Fuchs. The Soviet's espionage against the atomic bomb project is prominent in these messages with many referrals to the Manhattan project.
It certainly leads one to believe that McCarthy should be faulted not for his HUAC activities, but for merely scratching the surface and not probing deeper into the Soviet's and US Communist party's activities than he did. It certainly seems that there was in fact wide-spread communist infiltration of the US Government and other American institutions.
To see some of the now declasified Venona documents click:
The NSA's Venona site
The PBS Link
For an excellent overview of Venona check out the CIA's own website on the subject
The Soviet espionage activities in the 40's and 50's were quite pervasive. Among those mentioned in the cables are the Rosenbergs, Alger Hiss, and Klaus Fuchs. The Soviet's espionage against the atomic bomb project is prominent in these messages with many referrals to the Manhattan project.
It certainly leads one to believe that McCarthy should be faulted not for his HUAC activities, but for merely scratching the surface and not probing deeper into the Soviet's and US Communist party's activities than he did. It certainly seems that there was in fact wide-spread communist infiltration of the US Government and other American institutions.
To see some of the now declasified Venona documents click:
The NSA's Venona site
The PBS Link
For an excellent overview of Venona check out the CIA's own website on the subject
Monday, June 14, 2004
Mayor of Detroit Suffers Outbreak of Foot-In-Mouth Disease
As noted in the Detroit News, Mayor Kilpatrick, made some embarrasing, if not downright stupid gaffes at the Detroit Regional Chanmber's policy conference.
Just imagine the protests, if not an outright riot, that would have occurred had it been a white politician saying “What is it with you black people? You love your drugs.”
Pathetic, racist and absolutely unnacceptable either way.
Hopefully the Mayor has the good sense to apologise, or that the media keep on this.
As a Mayor of a city that is now predominantly black, that is seeking the predominantly white suburbs to kick in money to keep the city afloat, one would think the Mayor would show both more class and more tact.
Kilpatrick blurted out, “What is it with you white people? You love your drug wars.”
The racist remark was part of a larger and more bizarre diatribe by the mayor in which he blamed the media for Detroit’s poor image. Kilpatrick contends that Detroit doesn’t have a problem with crime, despite the cold, hard numbers from the FBI; it has a problem with the way the media report on crime.
Just imagine the protests, if not an outright riot, that would have occurred had it been a white politician saying “What is it with you black people? You love your drugs.”
Pathetic, racist and absolutely unnacceptable either way.
Hopefully the Mayor has the good sense to apologise, or that the media keep on this.
As a Mayor of a city that is now predominantly black, that is seeking the predominantly white suburbs to kick in money to keep the city afloat, one would think the Mayor would show both more class and more tact.
Saturday, June 12, 2004
Imam Calls for Justice
But you know there's a catch.
Special to the Detroit News, Imam Mohammad Ali Elahi, head of the Islamic House of Worship in Dearborn Heights declares that Faith and values demand justice for Palestinians.
His editorial is a classic seethe. While he calls for "justice" and castigates the US and Israel, he can't seem to demand that his co-religionists that are terrorists should be brought to justice.
Of course he brings up Abu Ghraib:
The disgraceful scenes of brutality and humiliation in Iraq’s Abu Ghraib prison have made a powerful explosive weapon of mass destruction whose main victim was the image of our country around the world.
Her then brings up the standard canard that Arrogant acts mixed with strategic mistakes resulted in losing the hearts and minds of the Iraqis. Last May the president declared the end of the war, and this May he declared the beginning of the war without predicting its end. For some reason, the president has decided to put the Israeli agenda above American security.
The Imam doesn't seem to connect the dots as to how the President not "predicting an end to the war in Iraq" is somehow putting the Israeli agenda above American security. Of course for Moonbats, including Fritz Hollings and Jim Moran, this is apparently understood.
He then plays the standard massacre card concerning the battle in Rafah
He then tops it off with his statement that I am not anti-Jewish; I am anti-injustice. I joined the interfaith “Walk as One” parade in Detroit to be one nation under one Lord. I wish I heard more courageous voices from the faithful within the Jewish community condemning the atrocities of the Israeli soldiers in Gaza.
Yep, some of his best friends are Jewish no doubt. Of course in his entire editorial he can't seem able to condemn a single act of Arab/Palestinian terrorism.
It's a classic one-sided seethe complete with references to Amnesty international and the UN as moral agents condemning evil Israeli actions like the building of a security fence to stop terorist infiltrations and interdicting tunnels used to smuggle weapons to kills Jews.
After all it just wouldn't meet his concept of justice to prevent terrorists from killing more Jews.
Special to the Detroit News, Imam Mohammad Ali Elahi, head of the Islamic House of Worship in Dearborn Heights declares that Faith and values demand justice for Palestinians.
His editorial is a classic seethe. While he calls for "justice" and castigates the US and Israel, he can't seem to demand that his co-religionists that are terrorists should be brought to justice.
Of course he brings up Abu Ghraib:
The disgraceful scenes of brutality and humiliation in Iraq’s Abu Ghraib prison have made a powerful explosive weapon of mass destruction whose main victim was the image of our country around the world.
Her then brings up the standard canard that Arrogant acts mixed with strategic mistakes resulted in losing the hearts and minds of the Iraqis. Last May the president declared the end of the war, and this May he declared the beginning of the war without predicting its end. For some reason, the president has decided to put the Israeli agenda above American security.
The Imam doesn't seem to connect the dots as to how the President not "predicting an end to the war in Iraq" is somehow putting the Israeli agenda above American security. Of course for Moonbats, including Fritz Hollings and Jim Moran, this is apparently understood.
He then plays the standard massacre card concerning the battle in Rafah
He then tops it off with his statement that I am not anti-Jewish; I am anti-injustice. I joined the interfaith “Walk as One” parade in Detroit to be one nation under one Lord. I wish I heard more courageous voices from the faithful within the Jewish community condemning the atrocities of the Israeli soldiers in Gaza.
Yep, some of his best friends are Jewish no doubt. Of course in his entire editorial he can't seem able to condemn a single act of Arab/Palestinian terrorism.
It's a classic one-sided seethe complete with references to Amnesty international and the UN as moral agents condemning evil Israeli actions like the building of a security fence to stop terorist infiltrations and interdicting tunnels used to smuggle weapons to kills Jews.
After all it just wouldn't meet his concept of justice to prevent terrorists from killing more Jews.
Friday, June 11, 2004
Little Green Footballs - the Drinking Game
In honor of the many drinking threads on Little Green Footballs, as a regular reader and occasional poster, I present the LGF Drinking Game.
The Rules
A Drink can be a beer, a glass of wine or a shot of liquor…your choice.
You must take a drink when:
1. Anytime someone posts “FIRST!”
2. Anytime Bigel posts that we should nuke Mecca and Medina
You can
3. Anytime Aisha sings the praises of wearing a burka or a hijab
4. Anytime someone says “Gordon is a troll but even like a broken clock he’s sometimes right”
5. Anytime someone (((hugs))) someone else.
6. Anytime a Troll declares that LGF is a racist cesspool for its reporting on Islamist threats, Islamist statements in the media or mosque, Islamist activities and seethings.
7. Anytime someone GAZEs at a Troll.
8. Anytime someone tells a Troll to appropriately FOAD.
9. Anytime someone asks for a hat tip.
10. Anytime a post or commentator states that "Islam is a Religion of Peace" (ROP or ROPMA also qualifies).
11. Anytime someone brings up the grand Lizardroid conspiracy.
12. Anytime Charles posts in the comments on a thread. Please drink while standing at a position of attention with your glass raised to your Lizardroid Master.
13. If you’re not drunk yet by the time you read this rule, you’re obviously not reading LGF, get reading and start over!
The Rules
A Drink can be a beer, a glass of wine or a shot of liquor…your choice.
You must take a drink when:
1. Anytime someone posts “FIRST!”
2. Anytime Bigel posts that we should nuke Mecca and Medina
You can
- a) take a drink in disgust
b) down a drink in agreement
c) contemplatively sip your drink while thinking…that might not be a bad idea as a deterrent to threaten the Islamists that if there is another attack on US soil we’ll atomically reconfigure their religion.
3. Anytime Aisha sings the praises of wearing a burka or a hijab
4. Anytime someone says “Gordon is a troll but even like a broken clock he’s sometimes right”
5. Anytime someone (((hugs))) someone else.
6. Anytime a Troll declares that LGF is a racist cesspool for its reporting on Islamist threats, Islamist statements in the media or mosque, Islamist activities and seethings.
7. Anytime someone GAZEs at a Troll.
8. Anytime someone tells a Troll to appropriately FOAD.
9. Anytime someone asks for a hat tip.
10. Anytime a post or commentator states that "Islam is a Religion of Peace" (ROP or ROPMA also qualifies).
11. Anytime someone brings up the grand Lizardroid conspiracy.
12. Anytime Charles posts in the comments on a thread. Please drink while standing at a position of attention with your glass raised to your Lizardroid Master.
13. If you’re not drunk yet by the time you read this rule, you’re obviously not reading LGF, get reading and start over!
Wednesday, June 02, 2004
Enrollment Decline at U of M Women and Minorities hardest hit.
Its interesting to see the different spins being spun on the enrollment drop at U of M.
The Detroit Free Press In its editorial notes that
applications among African Americans and Hispanics dropped 25 percent and 13 percent respectively But it then goes on to state that there was a a similar, 20-percent decline in white student applications.
On the other hand, The Detroit News in its editorial only remarks that U-M’s minority applications are down 21 percent from last fall; applications dropped 25 percent for African-Americans and 22 percent fewer African-Americans were accepted., with no mention of the corresponding 20% decline in white student applications.
Perhaps it did not mention this numerically similar decline in order to take a swipe at the Michigan Civil Rights Initiative's attempt to place on the ballot a referendum prohibiting affirmative action, noting it was a possible reason for the decline in minority students declining applications, and that it merely being in contention is enought for the damage may have already been done.
So the Detroit News is assuming minority students would not even apply to U of M because of a possible refferendum, which has not even taken place, and is the subject of court action, that would only prohibit affirmative action? If the Detroit News truly thinks that minority students are that dumb as to be influenced by such an event to not even apply, then no wonder that the Detroit News is in favor of affirmative action plans. But this reflects far more on the mindset of the Detroit News editorial writer than on the ability of any minority student.
Meanwhile, the Freep does not even mention the MCRI initiative as possible reason for the decline.
The Detroit Free Press In its editorial notes that
applications among African Americans and Hispanics dropped 25 percent and 13 percent respectively But it then goes on to state that there was a a similar, 20-percent decline in white student applications.
On the other hand, The Detroit News in its editorial only remarks that U-M’s minority applications are down 21 percent from last fall; applications dropped 25 percent for African-Americans and 22 percent fewer African-Americans were accepted., with no mention of the corresponding 20% decline in white student applications.
Perhaps it did not mention this numerically similar decline in order to take a swipe at the Michigan Civil Rights Initiative's attempt to place on the ballot a referendum prohibiting affirmative action, noting it was a possible reason for the decline in minority students declining applications, and that it merely being in contention is enought for the damage may have already been done.
So the Detroit News is assuming minority students would not even apply to U of M because of a possible refferendum, which has not even taken place, and is the subject of court action, that would only prohibit affirmative action? If the Detroit News truly thinks that minority students are that dumb as to be influenced by such an event to not even apply, then no wonder that the Detroit News is in favor of affirmative action plans. But this reflects far more on the mindset of the Detroit News editorial writer than on the ability of any minority student.
Meanwhile, the Freep does not even mention the MCRI initiative as possible reason for the decline.
Tuesday, June 01, 2004
On the Eurofighter
Instapundit links to an article on the scotsman.com That the UK may sell some of its Eurofighters before they are even put into service with the RAF.
The Eurofighter, which was to be the Euro consortium's answer to the F-22 and other latest generation fighter planbes seems to have its share of problems:
Beset by problems with design, hideous delays and enormous cost overruns, the fighter is already four years behind schedule.
but most significantly, for an all-weather, air superiority fighter and fighter bomber is this little drawback:
a procurement process that has been dogged by farcical hurdles, including the latest official warning that its pilots should not fly in cloud
I do hope the Europeans only fight their air battles on clear days.
The Eurofighter, which was to be the Euro consortium's answer to the F-22 and other latest generation fighter planbes seems to have its share of problems:
Beset by problems with design, hideous delays and enormous cost overruns, the fighter is already four years behind schedule.
but most significantly, for an all-weather, air superiority fighter and fighter bomber is this little drawback:
a procurement process that has been dogged by farcical hurdles, including the latest official warning that its pilots should not fly in cloud
I do hope the Europeans only fight their air battles on clear days.
Monday, April 26, 2004
Wayne County wants to get into the slavery reparations business
In the Detroit News Article Wayne targets profits from slavery: County may require disclosure by firms that win contracts, the News reports that the Wayne County Council is weighing an ordinance to force firms bidding on county contracts of $20,000 or more to disclose whether they “invested in, or supported or profited in some manner from the institution of slavery.”
That should surely improve Wayne County's business climate.
Has the Board of Commissioners ever heard of a basic legal concept known as the Statute of Limitations?
Have they heard that, as reported in the article, Lawsuits seeking reparations have failed for one big reason: Slavery was fully legal until the 13th Amendment in 1864, said Robert A. Sedler, a Wayne State University law professor who has studied the issue.
To pass this ordinance as a feel-good measure which will increase the costs of companies doing business with Wayne County while Michigan is in an economic downturn truly shows that rather than try and improve the economic condition of the County, the Commissioners want to score cheap political points with its base with its attack against the wealth of the old-money companies.
That should surely improve Wayne County's business climate.
Has the Board of Commissioners ever heard of a basic legal concept known as the Statute of Limitations?
Have they heard that, as reported in the article, Lawsuits seeking reparations have failed for one big reason: Slavery was fully legal until the 13th Amendment in 1864, said Robert A. Sedler, a Wayne State University law professor who has studied the issue.
To pass this ordinance as a feel-good measure which will increase the costs of companies doing business with Wayne County while Michigan is in an economic downturn truly shows that rather than try and improve the economic condition of the County, the Commissioners want to score cheap political points with its base with its attack against the wealth of the old-money companies.
Thursday, April 22, 2004
CNN -- on the Other Side
CNN, the cable network that admitted to sitting on stories that gave a true picture of life in Iraq under Saddam.
CNN, the cable network that coddles Castro to keep its Cuba access.
CNN, the network that carefully covers up and shills for dictators in return for access, seems to have no trouble attacking and attempting to undermine democracies.
in CNN camera crew detained near Dimona reactor The Jerusalem Post reports that a CNN Camera Crew was caught filming in a restricted area where no photography is allowed near the Dimona nuclear reactor.
The article noted that CNN has a history of violating Israel censorship. It was taken off the air temporarily during the 1991 Gulf War when it revealed the location of Scud rocket impacts, information that could help launchers adjust subsequent missile strikes.
CNN covers for dictators and murderers but would publish data to make it easier for these same dictators to attack democracies.
CNN, the cable network that isn't there to provide news, its simply on the other side.
CNN, the cable network that coddles Castro to keep its Cuba access.
CNN, the network that carefully covers up and shills for dictators in return for access, seems to have no trouble attacking and attempting to undermine democracies.
in CNN camera crew detained near Dimona reactor The Jerusalem Post reports that a CNN Camera Crew was caught filming in a restricted area where no photography is allowed near the Dimona nuclear reactor.
The article noted that CNN has a history of violating Israel censorship. It was taken off the air temporarily during the 1991 Gulf War when it revealed the location of Scud rocket impacts, information that could help launchers adjust subsequent missile strikes.
CNN covers for dictators and murderers but would publish data to make it easier for these same dictators to attack democracies.
CNN, the cable network that isn't there to provide news, its simply on the other side.
Tuesday, April 20, 2004
More from "The British Have Lost Their Minds" File
From Little Green Footballs.
British-based Al-Muhajiroun leader Omar Bakri Muhammad has openly threatend attacks on London and shows the Islamist face of evil for all to see:
“It’s inevitable. Because several (attacks) are being prepared by several groups,” Sheikh Omar Bakri Muhammad told Lisbon’s Publica magazine from London where he is based.
. . .
He added: “We don’t make a distinction between civilians and non-civilians, innocents and non-innocents. Only between Muslims and unbelievers. And the life of an unbeliever has no value. It has no sanctity.”
It was important to see accusations of terrorism in their proper context, he said.
“If we give money to needy women and children, they say they are the families of terrorists. But where do the terrorists come from? Zimbabwe? No. They are people from here. And they are our brothers, the terrorists.”
. . .
The Syrian-born cleric heads the al Muhajiroun group, which has praised the September 11, 2001, attacks on the United States and the al Qaeda militant network blamed for them. ...
Asked about his comments that he wanted to have the banner of Islam at 10 Downing Street, Muhammad said, “Yes, it’s my dream. I believe one day that is going to happen. Because this is my country, I like living here.”
As noted by one of the Commentors on the site (#53 Right Wing Conspirator ), this lovely person actually receives British welfare benefits.
Unbelievable, the British Government is actually subsidizing his hatred, advocation of terrorism against the British and attempts to overthrow the British Govenrment.
British-based Al-Muhajiroun leader Omar Bakri Muhammad has openly threatend attacks on London and shows the Islamist face of evil for all to see:
“It’s inevitable. Because several (attacks) are being prepared by several groups,” Sheikh Omar Bakri Muhammad told Lisbon’s Publica magazine from London where he is based.
. . .
He added: “We don’t make a distinction between civilians and non-civilians, innocents and non-innocents. Only between Muslims and unbelievers. And the life of an unbeliever has no value. It has no sanctity.”
It was important to see accusations of terrorism in their proper context, he said.
“If we give money to needy women and children, they say they are the families of terrorists. But where do the terrorists come from? Zimbabwe? No. They are people from here. And they are our brothers, the terrorists.”
. . .
The Syrian-born cleric heads the al Muhajiroun group, which has praised the September 11, 2001, attacks on the United States and the al Qaeda militant network blamed for them. ...
Asked about his comments that he wanted to have the banner of Islam at 10 Downing Street, Muhammad said, “Yes, it’s my dream. I believe one day that is going to happen. Because this is my country, I like living here.”
As noted by one of the Commentors on the site (#53 Right Wing Conspirator ), this lovely person actually receives British welfare benefits.
Unbelievable, the British Government is actually subsidizing his hatred, advocation of terrorism against the British and attempts to overthrow the British Govenrment.
Friday, April 16, 2004
Group Wants Michigan Juries to be Selected Based on Race
In the Ann Arbor News, it is reported that the group People of Diversity United for Equality want to place on the November 2004 ballot a "proposal that would allow plaintiffs or defendants in civil and criminal trials to request that 50 percent of a jury be identical to the plaintiffs' or defendants' own race. "
PODUE [Is that a horrid acronym or what?] President Roderick Casey, 46, said the purpose of the drive is to "empower disenfranchised" individuals, particularly the poor and people of color, involved in the judicial system.
This is simply insane, an affirmative action scheme for juries. Why only make the jury racially similar to the defendant? How about class, gender, hobbies, political beliefs and support of the same sports teams? After all two Detroit Red Wings fans have much more in common than, for example a Red Wings fan and a supporter of the Nashville Predators. Indeed, it is well known that supporters of the Nashville Predators are horribly under-represented in the Michigan jury pool and likely to suffer discriminatory effects from Red Wings fans (especially during this year's playoff season).
One would think this measure would be unconstitutional on its face. We already have good Supreme Court law thatpreemptions peremptory challenges (Thank you for the correction Prof. Volokh!) cannot be based on race (Batson v. Kentucky, 476 U.S. 79 (1986); Powers v. Ohio, 499 U.S. 400 (1991) and others) or gender (J.E.B. v. Alabama, 511 U.S. 127 (1994) and others).
One would think a requirement that 50% of the jury must be a certain race would also offend the Equal Protection Clause.
PODUE [Is that a horrid acronym or what?] President Roderick Casey, 46, said the purpose of the drive is to "empower disenfranchised" individuals, particularly the poor and people of color, involved in the judicial system.
This is simply insane, an affirmative action scheme for juries. Why only make the jury racially similar to the defendant? How about class, gender, hobbies, political beliefs and support of the same sports teams? After all two Detroit Red Wings fans have much more in common than, for example a Red Wings fan and a supporter of the Nashville Predators. Indeed, it is well known that supporters of the Nashville Predators are horribly under-represented in the Michigan jury pool and likely to suffer discriminatory effects from Red Wings fans (especially during this year's playoff season).
One would think this measure would be unconstitutional on its face. We already have good Supreme Court law that
One would think a requirement that 50% of the jury must be a certain race would also offend the Equal Protection Clause.
Thursday, April 15, 2004
Ruben Navarrette seems to follow along with Kos' "Screw the Mercenaries" meme
While stated in a more polite manner than Kos, but in a Kos-like editorial carried nationally by the Washington Post Writers Group and picked up by the Detroit News, Ruben Navarrette in his article "Modern-day mercenaries blur vision of Iraq" seems to hold the four Americans killed in Iraq while protecting a food convoy in contempt and states any appeals to his sympathy was a result of manipulation as the news reports did not initially state the dead were employed by Blackwater as security.
I admit that when I first saw the images from Fallujah, I wanted the administration to send a message that we wouldn't be scared off from what is, I am still convinced, a just war. Now that I know more about what these four men were doing in Iraq and at what price, I feel manipulated. Here we were originally told that these were civilians killed while doing humanitarian work. Someone left out the part about how these civilians were also hired guns.
The administration had the right response, but we shouldn't blur the line between these modern-day mercenaries and U.S. military personnel.
One group takes with it the prayers of a grateful nation. The other takes its chances.
While Navarrette is more polite than Kos, as he didn't directly come out and say screw em, his sentiments are the same.
Somehow being paid by a private company rather than by the government while guarding a food convoy causes the likes of Navarette and Kos to lose all respect for the dead Americans. These Americans were in fact "civilians killed while doing humanitarian work" and Navarette's snide remark that because they were "hired guns" and that they as a group should take their "chances" is more revealing about Navarette's prejudices than the grateful nation for whom they died serving.
I admit that when I first saw the images from Fallujah, I wanted the administration to send a message that we wouldn't be scared off from what is, I am still convinced, a just war. Now that I know more about what these four men were doing in Iraq and at what price, I feel manipulated. Here we were originally told that these were civilians killed while doing humanitarian work. Someone left out the part about how these civilians were also hired guns.
The administration had the right response, but we shouldn't blur the line between these modern-day mercenaries and U.S. military personnel.
One group takes with it the prayers of a grateful nation. The other takes its chances.
While Navarrette is more polite than Kos, as he didn't directly come out and say screw em, his sentiments are the same.
Somehow being paid by a private company rather than by the government while guarding a food convoy causes the likes of Navarette and Kos to lose all respect for the dead Americans. These Americans were in fact "civilians killed while doing humanitarian work" and Navarette's snide remark that because they were "hired guns" and that they as a group should take their "chances" is more revealing about Navarette's prejudices than the grateful nation for whom they died serving.
Monday, April 12, 2004
Fieger expected to be appointed to Michigan Film Board
Geoffrey Fieger is an outstanding and flamboyant Plaintiff's lawyer, who tends to get reversed on appeal quite a lot. He had previously ran for Governor on the Democrat ticket, but then did not run against Granholm for the most recent Democrat nomination.
From the Detroit Free Press
In a correction to the above article, The Freep Noted he had not yet been appointed:
Terry Lawson's Entertainment at Large column Sunday reported that lawyer Geoffrey Fieger had been appointed head of the Michigan Film Advisory Board. Although Gov. Jennifer Granholm has announced her intention to appoint Fieger as chairman, a position that doesn't require Senate approval, the appointment has not been formally made. The governor's office said Friday that Fieger is still expected to be appointed to the position.
It is expected that soon after his appointment is finalized, films depicting Defense Lawyers in a sympathetic light will be banned in Michigan.
From the Detroit Free Press
In a correction to the above article, The Freep Noted he had not yet been appointed:
Terry Lawson's Entertainment at Large column Sunday reported that lawyer Geoffrey Fieger had been appointed head of the Michigan Film Advisory Board. Although Gov. Jennifer Granholm has announced her intention to appoint Fieger as chairman, a position that doesn't require Senate approval, the appointment has not been formally made. The governor's office said Friday that Fieger is still expected to be appointed to the position.
It is expected that soon after his appointment is finalized, films depicting Defense Lawyers in a sympathetic light will be banned in Michigan.
Thursday, April 01, 2004
The ABA, Brown v Board, and Gun Control
The ABA in the ABA Journal, has a special feature on the Brown v. Board decision that ended segregation.
The ABA has a feature article: Making Brown Real - A North Carolina Family Fought Threats and Intimidation After Suing to integrate Schools.
In the Article, it recounts the following incident:
Christine Coppedge remembers the fall night in 1966. Five cars bearing Confederate battle flags headed up the long narrow driveway toward her family's home . . .
That night, Christine Coppedge knew the men were coming for her family. She had been warned. And she was prepared. With her husband away finishign his Baptist seminary studies, she borrowed a semi-automatic rifle and positioned herself behind an old oak tree near her Federal-style house.
As the cars neared, she opend fire. Not surprisingly, the intruders retreated, backing up so quickly they comically bumped into each other on the way out.
Mrs. Coppedge used an "assault weapon" to defend the lives of herself and family and protect them as she struggled for their civil rights.
The ABA however, supported the "assault weapons" ban and supports its extension, as well as other measures to prevent citizens from having access to firearms to protect themselves. Had this ban been in effect then along with the other bans the ABA backs to deprive law-abiding citizens of firearms, perhaps Mrs. Coppedge would not have been able to have so ably defend herself and family and go on and become a named plaintiff and ultimately beat segregation in court.
The ABA has a feature article: Making Brown Real - A North Carolina Family Fought Threats and Intimidation After Suing to integrate Schools.
In the Article, it recounts the following incident:
Christine Coppedge remembers the fall night in 1966. Five cars bearing Confederate battle flags headed up the long narrow driveway toward her family's home . . .
That night, Christine Coppedge knew the men were coming for her family. She had been warned. And she was prepared. With her husband away finishign his Baptist seminary studies, she borrowed a semi-automatic rifle and positioned herself behind an old oak tree near her Federal-style house.
As the cars neared, she opend fire. Not surprisingly, the intruders retreated, backing up so quickly they comically bumped into each other on the way out.
Mrs. Coppedge used an "assault weapon" to defend the lives of herself and family and protect them as she struggled for their civil rights.
The ABA however, supported the "assault weapons" ban and supports its extension, as well as other measures to prevent citizens from having access to firearms to protect themselves. Had this ban been in effect then along with the other bans the ABA backs to deprive law-abiding citizens of firearms, perhaps Mrs. Coppedge would not have been able to have so ably defend herself and family and go on and become a named plaintiff and ultimately beat segregation in court.
Monday, March 22, 2004
Euros snidely condemn Israel for Killing Yassin
As most of the Blogosphere knows, the leader of the terrorist group Hamas has been sent to hell, courtesy of a well aimed missile from the Israeli Air Force.
The Europeans of course are quick to condemn Israel in defending itself as reported in the Detroit Free Press:
In a statement, the EU foreign ministers said Hamas was guilty of ``atrocities ... which have resulted in the deaths of hundreds of Israelis'' and that Israel has the right to protect itself against terrorist attacks.
Wow, that's very generous of them, after all, most of the Euros consider Hamas to be a welfare and charitable works organization.
``Israel is not, however, entitled to carry out extra-judicial killings,'' the EU statement added. It said Yassin's assassination ``has inflamed the situation ... Violence is no substitute for the political negotiations which are necessary for a just and lasting settlement.''
Hey, the helicopter had an arrest warrant, and Yassin resisted arrest, and got blown to smithereens as a result. So there. Oh, you mean they didn't try to arrest him first and maybe haul him in front of the International Court? Too bad. He's a terrorist and got what he deserved. Anyways, I thought the EU frowned on judicial killings in any case so why are they making a fuss about extra-judicial killings. Not to worry EU, while this may not have been a judicial killing, it certainly was a judicious one.
British Foreign Secretary Jack Straw said Yassin's assassination would not make Israel any more secure.
Really, that's one less terrorist leader down who can't plan or order any more attacks.
Straw spoke of ``Israel's paramount need to defend itself'' against terrorists, but if it wants ``the full support of the international community, it needs to do so within the boundaries set by international law.''
Wow, nice to see that British are finally admitting that Israel may defend itself. I do hope however that Britain reexamines all of its "extra-judicial" killings of IRA terrorists who were on active operations, as after all, killing them didn't make Britain any more secure.
EU foreign policy chief Javier Solana called it ``very, very bad news for the peace process.''
Whereas, according to Solana, dead Jews are just a part of the peace process, I'll take the bad news, thank you very much.
German Foreign Minister Joschka Fischer said he was ``deeply concerned about the possible consequences,'' such as an escalation of violence.
As if everything was hunky-dory until Yassin caught a missile? News to Fischer, the violence hasn't subsided. Only killing off the terrorists will end the cycle of violence, or capitulation. After all Germany today is still concerned about the cycle of violence posed by any actions Germany might take against the Baader-Meinhorf Group, ja?
French Foreign Minister Dominique de Villepin said the killing ``amplifies the cycle of violence.'' and immediately counselled Israel to follow France's lead and surrender.
De Villepin urged Palestinians and Israelis to recommit to the peace process that is jointly endorsed by the United States, Russia, the European Union and the United Nations and foresees a Palestinian state alongside Israel. Yassin's Hamas opposes that effort and is committed to destroying the Jewish state and replacing it with an Islamic one.
Newsflash Dominique: the paleswinians never committed to the peace process and haven't even fulfilled an inch of their obligations under the Roadmap. Quit trying to feed Israel to the alligator would you?
Danish Foreign Minister Per Stig Moeller said the EU has long opposed ``extra-judicial killings.'' they also oppose judicial killings, and nasty words at breakfast. Funny thing Per Stig, you didn't mind the Free world committing extra-judicial killings to free your country from the Nazis now did you? Or do you want a 'do-over' and we'll let you sue the Germans in court after they occupy you?
He said that reviving the peace process will not be any ``easier when you have killings like that going on in Gaza. Terror and violence is not the way ahead.''
Exactly, so when you kill the terrorists, you cut down on terror and violence and thus help revive the peace process.
Norwegian Foreign Minister Jan Petersen urged both sides to curtail violence and implement the U.S.-backed ``road map'' plan for Mideast peace.
``This act will contribute to increased tensions in the area and will make it more difficult to implement the road map for peace and a possible Israeli withdrawal from Gaza,'' he said.
Actually Jan, it may make an Israeli withdrawal easier, as the less terrorist infrastructure that exists, the less need there will be to periodically return and stomp out the terrorists, and thus this action will result in less violence. After all dead terrorists can make no plans, construct no bombs and can no longer kill innocent people.
One would think the bombing in madrid would wake the Euros up to the danger faced and the need to interdict the terorrists without waiting for a "judicial" process. It seems the Euros still can't avoid appeasement and counselling surrender.
The Europeans of course are quick to condemn Israel in defending itself as reported in the Detroit Free Press:
In a statement, the EU foreign ministers said Hamas was guilty of ``atrocities ... which have resulted in the deaths of hundreds of Israelis'' and that Israel has the right to protect itself against terrorist attacks.
Wow, that's very generous of them, after all, most of the Euros consider Hamas to be a welfare and charitable works organization.
``Israel is not, however, entitled to carry out extra-judicial killings,'' the EU statement added. It said Yassin's assassination ``has inflamed the situation ... Violence is no substitute for the political negotiations which are necessary for a just and lasting settlement.''
Hey, the helicopter had an arrest warrant, and Yassin resisted arrest, and got blown to smithereens as a result. So there. Oh, you mean they didn't try to arrest him first and maybe haul him in front of the International Court? Too bad. He's a terrorist and got what he deserved. Anyways, I thought the EU frowned on judicial killings in any case so why are they making a fuss about extra-judicial killings. Not to worry EU, while this may not have been a judicial killing, it certainly was a judicious one.
British Foreign Secretary Jack Straw said Yassin's assassination would not make Israel any more secure.
Really, that's one less terrorist leader down who can't plan or order any more attacks.
Straw spoke of ``Israel's paramount need to defend itself'' against terrorists, but if it wants ``the full support of the international community, it needs to do so within the boundaries set by international law.''
Wow, nice to see that British are finally admitting that Israel may defend itself. I do hope however that Britain reexamines all of its "extra-judicial" killings of IRA terrorists who were on active operations, as after all, killing them didn't make Britain any more secure.
EU foreign policy chief Javier Solana called it ``very, very bad news for the peace process.''
Whereas, according to Solana, dead Jews are just a part of the peace process, I'll take the bad news, thank you very much.
German Foreign Minister Joschka Fischer said he was ``deeply concerned about the possible consequences,'' such as an escalation of violence.
As if everything was hunky-dory until Yassin caught a missile? News to Fischer, the violence hasn't subsided. Only killing off the terrorists will end the cycle of violence, or capitulation. After all Germany today is still concerned about the cycle of violence posed by any actions Germany might take against the Baader-Meinhorf Group, ja?
French Foreign Minister Dominique de Villepin said the killing ``amplifies the cycle of violence.'' and immediately counselled Israel to follow France's lead and surrender.
De Villepin urged Palestinians and Israelis to recommit to the peace process that is jointly endorsed by the United States, Russia, the European Union and the United Nations and foresees a Palestinian state alongside Israel. Yassin's Hamas opposes that effort and is committed to destroying the Jewish state and replacing it with an Islamic one.
Newsflash Dominique: the paleswinians never committed to the peace process and haven't even fulfilled an inch of their obligations under the Roadmap. Quit trying to feed Israel to the alligator would you?
Danish Foreign Minister Per Stig Moeller said the EU has long opposed ``extra-judicial killings.'' they also oppose judicial killings, and nasty words at breakfast. Funny thing Per Stig, you didn't mind the Free world committing extra-judicial killings to free your country from the Nazis now did you? Or do you want a 'do-over' and we'll let you sue the Germans in court after they occupy you?
He said that reviving the peace process will not be any ``easier when you have killings like that going on in Gaza. Terror and violence is not the way ahead.''
Exactly, so when you kill the terrorists, you cut down on terror and violence and thus help revive the peace process.
Norwegian Foreign Minister Jan Petersen urged both sides to curtail violence and implement the U.S.-backed ``road map'' plan for Mideast peace.
``This act will contribute to increased tensions in the area and will make it more difficult to implement the road map for peace and a possible Israeli withdrawal from Gaza,'' he said.
Actually Jan, it may make an Israeli withdrawal easier, as the less terrorist infrastructure that exists, the less need there will be to periodically return and stomp out the terrorists, and thus this action will result in less violence. After all dead terrorists can make no plans, construct no bombs and can no longer kill innocent people.
One would think the bombing in madrid would wake the Euros up to the danger faced and the need to interdict the terorrists without waiting for a "judicial" process. It seems the Euros still can't avoid appeasement and counselling surrender.
Wednesday, March 17, 2004
Iranian uprising should be supported by the United States
It seems an uprising against the mad mullahs of Iran could begin at any time. Already demonstrations and sporadic fights have broken out as reported at National Review Online and Vodkapundit .
The US should support this popular uprising against the Ayatollahs either covertly or overtly. Such support is in the United State's interests for the following reasons:
1. Iran is an avowed enemy of the united States.
2. Iran is a supporter and sponsor of terrorism. Defeat of the current dictatorship will lead to a cessation of the Iranians support for Hezbollah and other terrorist groups, making Americans safer.
3. The defeat of the fundamentalists in Iran and the implementation of a democracy will continue the implementation of the Bush doctrine in the Middle East. This will continue the work begun in Iraq and will help shape the Middle East.
4. The Iranian government is supporting attackers in Iraq. A defeat of the Ayatollahs will help stabilize Iraq.
5. The Iranians are clearly working toward acquiring nuclear weapons. So stopping them before they have them would certainly be in our national interest.
6. Removing the dictator's in Iran from power removes any pretense for the Saudis. We no longer would need to blindly protect their corrupt, Anti-American regime from an Iranian threat.
We should support this uprising in all possible ways. If we cannot directly support it by an invasion, we should use Special Forces to assist the Iranian people in their uprising.
At the very least we should drop thousands of radios and weapons to the Iranians, as we did in World War II when we parachuted in FP45 Liberator pistols to arm resistance fighters against the Nazis.
Just imagine the look on the Revolutionary Guards thugs' faces when they come to beat up on what they would expect to be defenseless unarmed demonstrators only to be shot down by them.
The US has a chance here to gain the gratefulness of the people of Iran by assisting them in their fight for freedom from the Islamists. We shouldn't lose this opportunity.
The US should support this popular uprising against the Ayatollahs either covertly or overtly. Such support is in the United State's interests for the following reasons:
1. Iran is an avowed enemy of the united States.
2. Iran is a supporter and sponsor of terrorism. Defeat of the current dictatorship will lead to a cessation of the Iranians support for Hezbollah and other terrorist groups, making Americans safer.
3. The defeat of the fundamentalists in Iran and the implementation of a democracy will continue the implementation of the Bush doctrine in the Middle East. This will continue the work begun in Iraq and will help shape the Middle East.
4. The Iranian government is supporting attackers in Iraq. A defeat of the Ayatollahs will help stabilize Iraq.
5. The Iranians are clearly working toward acquiring nuclear weapons. So stopping them before they have them would certainly be in our national interest.
6. Removing the dictator's in Iran from power removes any pretense for the Saudis. We no longer would need to blindly protect their corrupt, Anti-American regime from an Iranian threat.
We should support this uprising in all possible ways. If we cannot directly support it by an invasion, we should use Special Forces to assist the Iranian people in their uprising.
At the very least we should drop thousands of radios and weapons to the Iranians, as we did in World War II when we parachuted in FP45 Liberator pistols to arm resistance fighters against the Nazis.
Just imagine the look on the Revolutionary Guards thugs' faces when they come to beat up on what they would expect to be defenseless unarmed demonstrators only to be shot down by them.
The US has a chance here to gain the gratefulness of the people of Iran by assisting them in their fight for freedom from the Islamists. We shouldn't lose this opportunity.
Accused Nazi wants deportation hearing delayed due to health problems
The health problem in this case is that this scum is still breathing American air. He's had a nice, comfy house and job, and comfiortably retired, while his victims never had such opportunities.
A n 82-year-old man accused of collaborating with the Nazis in World War II in Poland is suffering from prostate cancer and other medical problems and should be given more time to answer a U.S. Justice Department lawsuit seeking his deportation, his lawyers said in court papers filed recently in Detroit.
The lawyers said John (Ivan) Kalymon of Troy cited upcoming radiation treatment and other ailments as reasons to delay his response to a civil complaint filed in January. The response was due March 8.
The lawyers also asked U.S. District Judge Marianne Battani in the requests earlier this month to seal all records in the case and prevent lawyers from discussing it to protect Kalymon's privacy. His lawyers said the Justice Department rejected both requests.
The Justice Department accused Kalymon of belonging to a Nazi-run police force that herded Jews for deportation and extermination.
Hopefully, Judge Battani will first deny his attempt to seal the proceeding. Also, The Judge should deny his attempt delay the proceeding. His deportation has already been delayed for 50 years while he has illegally enjoyed the benefit of living in the USA, No more.
Source: The Detroit Free Press
A n 82-year-old man accused of collaborating with the Nazis in World War II in Poland is suffering from prostate cancer and other medical problems and should be given more time to answer a U.S. Justice Department lawsuit seeking his deportation, his lawyers said in court papers filed recently in Detroit.
The lawyers said John (Ivan) Kalymon of Troy cited upcoming radiation treatment and other ailments as reasons to delay his response to a civil complaint filed in January. The response was due March 8.
The lawyers also asked U.S. District Judge Marianne Battani in the requests earlier this month to seal all records in the case and prevent lawyers from discussing it to protect Kalymon's privacy. His lawyers said the Justice Department rejected both requests.
The Justice Department accused Kalymon of belonging to a Nazi-run police force that herded Jews for deportation and extermination.
Hopefully, Judge Battani will first deny his attempt to seal the proceeding. Also, The Judge should deny his attempt delay the proceeding. His deportation has already been delayed for 50 years while he has illegally enjoyed the benefit of living in the USA, No more.
Source: The Detroit Free Press
Monday, March 15, 2004
Coin of the Week - Beware the Ides Of March
This coin was Struck by Brutus commemorating the assasination of Julies Caesar on the Ides of March in 44 BC (March 15).
On the Reverse of the coin is the Cap of Liberty with a dagger on each side.
On the Obverse is the Portrait of Brutus.
This is one of the most famous of Roman Coins, commemortating one of the most famous events in all of history, and is accordingly expensive as only 50 of these silver denarii have survived and exist in the world today, and as this one is in Extra Fine condition, it accordingly commands a high price.
The images of the Eid Mar denarius are from Wildwinds.com This coin featured on Wildwinds (an impressive reference site for ancient coins) sold for $110,000.00.
Aliso Viejo, California almost bans foam cups containing dihydrous oxide
Dihydrous Oxide, of course, is commonly known as water.
In Calif. Officials Nearly Fall for H2O Hoax The Detroit News reports that these city officials were taken in by a web site proclaiming the dangers of that dreaded chemical, well known for its dangerous effects on human beings.
Just imagine how far this hoax could have gone, perhaps the California State Legislature would have followed the CIty Council's lead and passed regulation to protect the poor citizens of California and mandated that all bottled water labels to contain a statement that "This item contains substances known to the State of California to contain substances harmful to human beings".
A lot of feel-good legilsation leads to absurd results, this time it began with an absurd result, but thankfuly, no legislation was passed to compound the error.
In Calif. Officials Nearly Fall for H2O Hoax The Detroit News reports that these city officials were taken in by a web site proclaiming the dangers of that dreaded chemical, well known for its dangerous effects on human beings.
Just imagine how far this hoax could have gone, perhaps the California State Legislature would have followed the CIty Council's lead and passed regulation to protect the poor citizens of California and mandated that all bottled water labels to contain a statement that "This item contains substances known to the State of California to contain substances harmful to human beings".
A lot of feel-good legilsation leads to absurd results, this time it began with an absurd result, but thankfuly, no legislation was passed to compound the error.
Thursday, March 11, 2004
Coin of the Week - A Denarius Depicting Justice
Following the announcement that the United States Mint is about to unveil a coin commemorating the First Supreme Court Justice, it seems only appropriate to feature a coin with a depiction of Ivstitia, the Roman Goddess of Justice.
The coin is a Roman Denarius of Septimius Severus, who ruled from 193-211 AD, and the coin is dated to approximately 198-202 AD.
On the Obverse: Septimius Severus, bearded portrait with a laurel wreath.
On the Reverse: Justitia seated holding a patera in her right hand and a scepter in her left hand.
The photo is from BeastCoins.com.
New US Silver Dollar to Honor Supreme Court Justice John Marshall
In a nice confluence of legal and numismatic news, next year, a silver dollar honoring the 250th anniversary of the birth of Chief Justice John Marshall will be struck by the US Mint.
It will be the first time the Supreme Court or one of its Justices will be so honored.
Perhaps this will lead to a Chief Justice of the Supreme Court Collector's Coin set in the future.
It will be the first time the Supreme Court or one of its Justices will be so honored.
Perhaps this will lead to a Chief Justice of the Supreme Court Collector's Coin set in the future.
Wednesday, March 10, 2004
Same Sex Wedding ban fails to pass in the Legislature
This attempted constitutional amendment failed on a 65-38 vote, which is eight votes short of the 2/3rds majority required to move the amnedment to the Michigan Senate and then to the ballot for ratification by Michgan's citizens as a constitutional amendment. Thus this attempt at adding a gay marriage ban to the Michigan Constitution failed.
Governor Granholm was apparently pleased at the outcome and her spokesperson noted that Michigan already has a law that bans gay marriage, Michigan does however allow Public Universities and other entities to provide benefits for same-sex couples that are the same as if the couple was married.
The spokesperson also hit the issue right on the head when she said "the governor does not believe the people want government in their bedrooms. Perhaps now we can focus on issues important to Michigan residents”.
Hopefully now the House can focus on the more pressing issues, such as the economy in Michigan, rather than worry about a small minority's pursuit of happiness. Let's face it, even if the courts in Michigan suddenly follow Massachussets' lead (and given the current composition of the Michigan Supreme Court, that's highly unlikey) the overall effect will be shockingly little, and society is quite unlikely to crumble as a result. The sky didn't fall once Public universities and other businesses gave comparable benefits to gay couples and it won't fall if gay marriage is recognized here either.
Interestingly, while the vote was mainly on party lines, 3 Republicans voted against it, 4 Democrats voted for it and 5 Democrats apparently sat there and did not vote at all.
Governor Granholm was apparently pleased at the outcome and her spokesperson noted that Michigan already has a law that bans gay marriage, Michigan does however allow Public Universities and other entities to provide benefits for same-sex couples that are the same as if the couple was married.
The spokesperson also hit the issue right on the head when she said "the governor does not believe the people want government in their bedrooms. Perhaps now we can focus on issues important to Michigan residents”.
Hopefully now the House can focus on the more pressing issues, such as the economy in Michigan, rather than worry about a small minority's pursuit of happiness. Let's face it, even if the courts in Michigan suddenly follow Massachussets' lead (and given the current composition of the Michigan Supreme Court, that's highly unlikey) the overall effect will be shockingly little, and society is quite unlikely to crumble as a result. The sky didn't fall once Public universities and other businesses gave comparable benefits to gay couples and it won't fall if gay marriage is recognized here either.
Interestingly, while the vote was mainly on party lines, 3 Republicans voted against it, 4 Democrats voted for it and 5 Democrats apparently sat there and did not vote at all.
Tuesday, March 09, 2004
The BBC's Coupling
While the BBC's news reporting skills seem to be sadly lacking, the BBC does offer one excellent product: Britcoms -- British Comedies.
Somehow the Britcoms tend to be often funnier and better executed than their American counterparts.
For Example Coupling is a lot funnier than Friends - More racy (not a comedy for kids here), funny and smarter than its US counterpart.
Two seasons of Coupling are on DVD at Netflix, and the three seasons released on DVD so far can be purchased at Amazon.com.
Its funny and well worth watching and laughing heartily over.
Somehow the Britcoms tend to be often funnier and better executed than their American counterparts.
For Example Coupling is a lot funnier than Friends - More racy (not a comedy for kids here), funny and smarter than its US counterpart.
Two seasons of Coupling are on DVD at Netflix, and the three seasons released on DVD so far can be purchased at Amazon.com.
Its funny and well worth watching and laughing heartily over.
Gay Marriage issue may make it to the ballot in Michigan
The Michigan House may vote on a constitutional amendment to ban the recognition of gay marriage in Michigan. The Senate is also expected to vote on this soon. If approved by 2/3rds of both the House and Senate, this could end up on the November ballot for the people to vote on for it to become a State Constitutional Amendment.
What this may do to the dynamics of the 2004 election in Michigan is hard to tell. An initiative to end Affirmative Action in Michigan may also make it to the ballot, so it will be interested to see how these two referendum issues will energize the parties' bases.
Michigan tends to be a conservative state, but one that tends to vote Democrat so how this will play out is anyone's guess.
The Senate resolution was introduced prior to the current Massachusetts/San Francisco events and was submitted in response to Ontario allowing gays to marry.
Some Michigan homosexuals have gone to Ontario to get married. I can report that the state has not collapsed as a result, and there seems to have been no effect on the validity or strength of heterosexual marriages.
What this may do to the dynamics of the 2004 election in Michigan is hard to tell. An initiative to end Affirmative Action in Michigan may also make it to the ballot, so it will be interested to see how these two referendum issues will energize the parties' bases.
Michigan tends to be a conservative state, but one that tends to vote Democrat so how this will play out is anyone's guess.
The Senate resolution was introduced prior to the current Massachusetts/San Francisco events and was submitted in response to Ontario allowing gays to marry.
Some Michigan homosexuals have gone to Ontario to get married. I can report that the state has not collapsed as a result, and there seems to have been no effect on the validity or strength of heterosexual marriages.
Monday, March 08, 2004
Really Stupid Criminal Tricks
From Findlaw.com
Armed Robbers Snap Incriminating Photos
ATLANTA (AP) - Three robbers shouldn't have been too surprised when they heard their crime was caught on camera. After all, they took the pictures themselves.
Michael Lee Merritt, 18, Wendell Mackey, 20, and Darnell Robinson, 22, playfully took snapshots of themselves while driving around in a stolen SUV after robbing 35-year-old Eric Haney on Dec. 18, 2001. The three ambushed Haney at gunpoint outside his apartment, then went inside and took DVDs, a video game machine and clothes, police said.
After their joyride, the men unwittingly left the disposable camera in the car, helping police identify and track them down. . . .
Armed Robbers Snap Incriminating Photos
ATLANTA (AP) - Three robbers shouldn't have been too surprised when they heard their crime was caught on camera. After all, they took the pictures themselves.
Michael Lee Merritt, 18, Wendell Mackey, 20, and Darnell Robinson, 22, playfully took snapshots of themselves while driving around in a stolen SUV after robbing 35-year-old Eric Haney on Dec. 18, 2001. The three ambushed Haney at gunpoint outside his apartment, then went inside and took DVDs, a video game machine and clothes, police said.
After their joyride, the men unwittingly left the disposable camera in the car, helping police identify and track them down. . . .
Who writes these headlines?
The Detroit News has a very overly dramatic headline in the paper and online today: Boardroom brawl dulls Disney magic: It pains America to watch capitalism mess with Mickey
For one thing, how does the Detroit News headline writer know it pains America to watch this spectacle?
And "capitalism messing with Mickey"? I can just picture it now, Daddy Warbucks and the cartoon capitalist from Monopoly beating up Mickey mouse in a dark alley. Run for the hills, the scourge of capitalism is about to mess with the most sucessful capitalistic icon of them all!
The article has to do with the boardroom battles between Eisner and Roy Disney, as well as the Comcast takeover offer. Most Americans far from panicking and heading for the hills, or protesting in the streets, either of which would be an expected reaction if this truly pained America, seem to be either blissfully unaware or they couldn't care less.
For one thing, how does the Detroit News headline writer know it pains America to watch this spectacle?
And "capitalism messing with Mickey"? I can just picture it now, Daddy Warbucks and the cartoon capitalist from Monopoly beating up Mickey mouse in a dark alley. Run for the hills, the scourge of capitalism is about to mess with the most sucessful capitalistic icon of them all!
The article has to do with the boardroom battles between Eisner and Roy Disney, as well as the Comcast takeover offer. Most Americans far from panicking and heading for the hills, or protesting in the streets, either of which would be an expected reaction if this truly pained America, seem to be either blissfully unaware or they couldn't care less.
Thursday, March 04, 2004
Puzzling New US Nickel design
Reports of the new United States nickel commemorating the Louisana purchase feature
a scene that commemorates the Louisiana Purchase.
The back of the new nickels now headed into circulation bear the words "United States of America," "Louisiana Purchase" and "1803." There is an image of hands clasped in friendship — one with a military cuff to symbolize the U.S. government, and the other with an ornate bracelet to represent American Indians.
Above the clasped hands is a tomahawk crossed by a peace pipe. The images are similar to those on Jefferson Peace Medals, which were presented ceremonially to Indian chiefs and other important leaders. Below the clasped hands are the Latin words "E Pluribus Unum" (meaning "Out of many, one"), and hugging the bottom of the coin is the denomination: "Five Cents."
One question is why the reverse image was chosen with an US Military cuff and one symbolizing an Indian Hand? Since we purchased Louisana from France for $15 million (and a good thing we purchased it too, just imagine Chirac running Louisiana today) why was this reverse selected?
Shouldn't the int have made the reverse with the French Flag going down and the U.S. Flag rising - that would have been historically symbolic and presently relevant symbolism.
a scene that commemorates the Louisiana Purchase.
The back of the new nickels now headed into circulation bear the words "United States of America," "Louisiana Purchase" and "1803." There is an image of hands clasped in friendship — one with a military cuff to symbolize the U.S. government, and the other with an ornate bracelet to represent American Indians.
Above the clasped hands is a tomahawk crossed by a peace pipe. The images are similar to those on Jefferson Peace Medals, which were presented ceremonially to Indian chiefs and other important leaders. Below the clasped hands are the Latin words "E Pluribus Unum" (meaning "Out of many, one"), and hugging the bottom of the coin is the denomination: "Five Cents."
One question is why the reverse image was chosen with an US Military cuff and one symbolizing an Indian Hand? Since we purchased Louisana from France for $15 million (and a good thing we purchased it too, just imagine Chirac running Louisiana today) why was this reverse selected?
Shouldn't the int have made the reverse with the French Flag going down and the U.S. Flag rising - that would have been historically symbolic and presently relevant symbolism.
Principals' association wants to prevent internet alcohol sales "for the children"
In the Detroit News, Jim Ballard, the Executive Director of the Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals decries the Detroit News' stance that Michigan's current ban on ordering wine over the internet and by other means from out-of-state sellers is wrong because of course, it might affect the youth.
Once again, its "for the children" so we ought to prevent adults from the better opportunities and choices that out of state wineries and other sellers of alcohol might provide.
Ballard states that School principals have a long history of trying to keep alcohol away from our students, and we are quick to oppose any means that makes alcohol more accessible.
Three out of 10 teenagers already participate in binge drinking. A National Academy of Sciences report also confirms that 10 percent of teenagers purchase alcohol over the Internet or through home delivery, and the growing use of the Internet only will increase that percentage. If the circuit court decision is not overturned, we are turning our backs on this already sizeable problem and allowing it to grow more.
Ballard is disengeniously using national statistics here, because of course, if any underage teen ordered alcohol over the Internet in Michigan they would be breaking the law.
Perhaps, as Executicve Director of Secondary School Principals, Mr. Ballard would be better off creating an education program to stress to the students in his care that underage drinking is not acceptable rather than attempt to keep adults from enjoying themselves.
As for Mr. Ballard's comment that "Face-to-face alcohol sales still are the best way to prevent underage drinking, and Michigan’s current alcohol distribution system is the best for Michigan and our youth. ". Mr. Ballard clearly underestimates the resourcefulness of the students in his charge.
The current system stiffles competition, is unconstitutionally protectionist, and is not the best possible system for Michigan. Let's not let the emotional cry of "for the children" uphold a bad law.
Once again, its "for the children" so we ought to prevent adults from the better opportunities and choices that out of state wineries and other sellers of alcohol might provide.
Ballard states that School principals have a long history of trying to keep alcohol away from our students, and we are quick to oppose any means that makes alcohol more accessible.
Three out of 10 teenagers already participate in binge drinking. A National Academy of Sciences report also confirms that 10 percent of teenagers purchase alcohol over the Internet or through home delivery, and the growing use of the Internet only will increase that percentage. If the circuit court decision is not overturned, we are turning our backs on this already sizeable problem and allowing it to grow more.
Ballard is disengeniously using national statistics here, because of course, if any underage teen ordered alcohol over the Internet in Michigan they would be breaking the law.
Perhaps, as Executicve Director of Secondary School Principals, Mr. Ballard would be better off creating an education program to stress to the students in his care that underage drinking is not acceptable rather than attempt to keep adults from enjoying themselves.
As for Mr. Ballard's comment that "Face-to-face alcohol sales still are the best way to prevent underage drinking, and Michigan’s current alcohol distribution system is the best for Michigan and our youth. ". Mr. Ballard clearly underestimates the resourcefulness of the students in his charge.
The current system stiffles competition, is unconstitutionally protectionist, and is not the best possible system for Michigan. Let's not let the emotional cry of "for the children" uphold a bad law.
Wednesday, March 03, 2004
Coin of the Week - A Prutah of Pontias Pilate
Given all the passion about The Passion going around, I thought this week should feature a relevant coin.
This is a small bronze coin struck in 30 A.D.
On the Obverse: LIZ within a wreath
On the Reverse: a Lituus (a staff used by the Romans in divination) with the Legend " Of Tiberius Caesar" (I'll update my translation later as I'm on lunch and don't have my reference book with me) in Greek.
The coin is from Amphora Coins and is for sale for $275.00. I expect with all the interest that The Passion will generate, that coins of Pontias Pilate will likely be in higher demand, even by people who are not coin collecters per se, and likely go up in value.
Posse to join in the hunt for online child predators
The Macomb County (Michigan) Sheriff is training citizens how to impersonate children online to work with deputies in catching online pedophiles.
Not a bad idea, now the pedos will have to worry even more that the "child" they're trying to seduce is an adult. Having seen a demonstration of the technique by the Wayne County Sheriff, I can tell you that these kinds of predators are out there in various chat rooms, and they do attempt to pick up kids over the Internet.
However, others are not very happy with the idea:
"I think it's shocking," said Detroit defense lawyer Elizabeth Jacobs. She opposes law enforcement agents posing online as children because she said it tricks law-abiding citizens into committing crimes.
Nonsense, it doesn't trick law-abiding citizens into attempting to have sex with children. It merely catches people trying to exploit children in the worst possible way, and its not entrapment.
Not a bad idea, now the pedos will have to worry even more that the "child" they're trying to seduce is an adult. Having seen a demonstration of the technique by the Wayne County Sheriff, I can tell you that these kinds of predators are out there in various chat rooms, and they do attempt to pick up kids over the Internet.
However, others are not very happy with the idea:
"I think it's shocking," said Detroit defense lawyer Elizabeth Jacobs. She opposes law enforcement agents posing online as children because she said it tricks law-abiding citizens into committing crimes.
Nonsense, it doesn't trick law-abiding citizens into attempting to have sex with children. It merely catches people trying to exploit children in the worst possible way, and its not entrapment.
This accident must have been the SUV's fault
This story has to be one of the worst excuses for an accident I've ever read:
Noecker testified he had entered his vehicle from the passenger side to avoid stepping in mud and was driving with his left foot as he approached the store, located next door to his wife's warehouse. Noecker testified that his foot slipped from the brake to the accelerator, which caused the vehicle to slam into the side of the convenience store.
Noecker left the scene of the accident before police arrived. Ninety minutes later, when Michigan State Police officers went to his home, he registered a blood-alcohol level of 0.10, the legal level of intoxication. Noecker said he had a glass of vodka after the crash to calm his nerves.
Noecker is a Circuit Court Judge for St. Joseph county in Michigan and the testimony is from a disciplinary hearing for the charged drunken driving offense.
I guess he's never figured out why they call the seat where the pedals are located the "Driver's seat".
Noecker testified he had entered his vehicle from the passenger side to avoid stepping in mud and was driving with his left foot as he approached the store, located next door to his wife's warehouse. Noecker testified that his foot slipped from the brake to the accelerator, which caused the vehicle to slam into the side of the convenience store.
Noecker left the scene of the accident before police arrived. Ninety minutes later, when Michigan State Police officers went to his home, he registered a blood-alcohol level of 0.10, the legal level of intoxication. Noecker said he had a glass of vodka after the crash to calm his nerves.
Noecker is a Circuit Court Judge for St. Joseph county in Michigan and the testimony is from a disciplinary hearing for the charged drunken driving offense.
I guess he's never figured out why they call the seat where the pedals are located the "Driver's seat".
A Case for a part-time Legislature in Michigan
Brian Dickerson in the Detroit Free Press makes a case for a part-time legfislature for Michigan.
He states that the Legislature has been rather timid for the first two months of this session, only debating a few rather contentious issues including
"Debating a proposal to turn the state law barring gay marriage into a state constitutional amendment barring gay marriage. ". Yep, even in Michigan the issue of gay marriage is heating up.
Dickerson bemoans the lack of activity on the part of the Legislature and holds it up as a reason for turning it into a part time affair. I believe the lack of activity would be a positive result of a part-time legislature. I would not mind less activity, less laws being passed and a part time legislature so less invasive, cumbersome and annoying, and dumb laws can be proposed. Not to mention the tax savings in only having to pay part-time salaries.
How annoying you ask? Asan example, a law recently pased in Michigan that has motorists fuming - if you do not have your proof of insurance with you while driving, or cannot find it, the fine is the same as if you did not have any insurance period, and you cannot bring proof of insurance to the court to demonstrate that you were in fact insured. After an uproar, this law looks to be modified.
Another interesting proposal seems to be the effective creation of a debtors prison. Ok, not exactly, but the effect of HB 5369 and HB 5371, if they are both passed together, would have parents that are delinquent in child support not only be sent to jail, but continually be guilty of new non-child support felony offenses when they fail to pay child suport while imprisoned. In fact, a deadbeat parent could be jailed forever as they could continuously rack up felonies for non-payment of child support while serving time for the earlier felony of non-payment of child support.
While I do not countenance people not paying their child support obligations, sending them to prison forever would not address the needs of the child as the parent is unlikely to be able to earn enough in prison to pay the child support obligation.
In short a part-time legislature would hopefuly do less damage and have less time to propose more inane laws, thus providing a net benefit to the people of Michigan.
He states that the Legislature has been rather timid for the first two months of this session, only debating a few rather contentious issues including
"Debating a proposal to turn the state law barring gay marriage into a state constitutional amendment barring gay marriage. ". Yep, even in Michigan the issue of gay marriage is heating up.
Dickerson bemoans the lack of activity on the part of the Legislature and holds it up as a reason for turning it into a part time affair. I believe the lack of activity would be a positive result of a part-time legislature. I would not mind less activity, less laws being passed and a part time legislature so less invasive, cumbersome and annoying, and dumb laws can be proposed. Not to mention the tax savings in only having to pay part-time salaries.
How annoying you ask? Asan example, a law recently pased in Michigan that has motorists fuming - if you do not have your proof of insurance with you while driving, or cannot find it, the fine is the same as if you did not have any insurance period, and you cannot bring proof of insurance to the court to demonstrate that you were in fact insured. After an uproar, this law looks to be modified.
Another interesting proposal seems to be the effective creation of a debtors prison. Ok, not exactly, but the effect of HB 5369 and HB 5371, if they are both passed together, would have parents that are delinquent in child support not only be sent to jail, but continually be guilty of new non-child support felony offenses when they fail to pay child suport while imprisoned. In fact, a deadbeat parent could be jailed forever as they could continuously rack up felonies for non-payment of child support while serving time for the earlier felony of non-payment of child support.
While I do not countenance people not paying their child support obligations, sending them to prison forever would not address the needs of the child as the parent is unlikely to be able to earn enough in prison to pay the child support obligation.
In short a part-time legislature would hopefuly do less damage and have less time to propose more inane laws, thus providing a net benefit to the people of Michigan.
Lawsuit Protection bill with Assault weapons renewal and ant-gun show riders dies in Senate.
Hat tip: Instapundit.
Just as well, it will be better to have a clean bills passed next year without these ridiculous amendments.
Now that Edwards has dropped out, as long as Bush does not pass any anti-gun laws this year the choice on whom to vote for becomes clearer for gun owners at least. Hopefully Bush will do something proactive such as pushing to make the tax cuts permanent and try to reign in government overspending, not to mention continue to vigorously prosecute the war on terror and the contrasts will become even greater.
Just as well, it will be better to have a clean bills passed next year without these ridiculous amendments.
Now that Edwards has dropped out, as long as Bush does not pass any anti-gun laws this year the choice on whom to vote for becomes clearer for gun owners at least. Hopefully Bush will do something proactive such as pushing to make the tax cuts permanent and try to reign in government overspending, not to mention continue to vigorously prosecute the war on terror and the contrasts will become even greater.
Tuesday, March 02, 2004
CNN's picture
This picture is from CNN, and its accompanying article is a brief summary of the vote.
If there is any doubt as to John Kerry's position on gun control, his standing with Charles Schumer, Dianne Feinstein and Edward Kennedy, the biggest backers of gun control and gun confiscation in the Senate should remove any question.
If there is any doubt as to John Kerry's position on gun control, his standing with Charles Schumer, Dianne Feinstein and Edward Kennedy, the biggest backers of gun control and gun confiscation in the Senate should remove any question.
More on the passing of the Amendment
From Foxnews:
Both Kerry and Edwards voted for the ban, so any question of their views on the 2nd Amendment is now closed.
Unbelievably, 10 Republicans voted for the ban to be extended: Ten Republicans broke party ranks: Lincoln Chafee of Rhode Island, Susan Collins of Maine, Mike DeWine of Ohio, Peter Fitzgerald of Illinois, Judd Gregg of New Hampshire, Richard Lugar of Indiana, Gordon Smith of Oregon, Olympia Snowe of Maine, George Voinovich of Ohio and John Warner of Virginia.
Also passing was the amendment to "close the gunshow loophole" Foxnews wronmgly describes the supposed loophole as: Under current law, unlicensed gun dealers at private shows are not required to ask for government background checks before selling weapons..
Morons, there is no such thing as an unlicensed dealer at a gun show. There may be private sales but once you are in the business of selling firearms (in any venue) you must be licensed by the BATF or you are committing a string of felonies.
And no Senator McCain, terorrists don't buy their weapons at American gun shows and ship them to Iraq. They get them in iraq where they are cheaper and fully automatic.
My prediction: If the Assault Weapons ban passes and Bush signs the bill into law, Bush will lose the 2004 election.
This bill needs to die now, it can be re-proposed next year when the "Assault Weapons" ban has lapsed.
Both Kerry and Edwards voted for the ban, so any question of their views on the 2nd Amendment is now closed.
Unbelievably, 10 Republicans voted for the ban to be extended: Ten Republicans broke party ranks: Lincoln Chafee of Rhode Island, Susan Collins of Maine, Mike DeWine of Ohio, Peter Fitzgerald of Illinois, Judd Gregg of New Hampshire, Richard Lugar of Indiana, Gordon Smith of Oregon, Olympia Snowe of Maine, George Voinovich of Ohio and John Warner of Virginia.
Also passing was the amendment to "close the gunshow loophole" Foxnews wronmgly describes the supposed loophole as: Under current law, unlicensed gun dealers at private shows are not required to ask for government background checks before selling weapons..
Morons, there is no such thing as an unlicensed dealer at a gun show. There may be private sales but once you are in the business of selling firearms (in any venue) you must be licensed by the BATF or you are committing a string of felonies.
And no Senator McCain, terorrists don't buy their weapons at American gun shows and ship them to Iraq. They get them in iraq where they are cheaper and fully automatic.
My prediction: If the Assault Weapons ban passes and Bush signs the bill into law, Bush will lose the 2004 election.
This bill needs to die now, it can be re-proposed next year when the "Assault Weapons" ban has lapsed.
Senate passes extension of Assault Weapons Ban amendment.
The Radio just reported that the Senate passed the renewal of the assault weapons ban as an amendment to the gun lawsuit legislation.
Apparently Edwards and Kerry had returned to the Senate for this vote but I'm not sure what their vote was on the amendment.
More on this as it happens.
Apparently Edwards and Kerry had returned to the Senate for this vote but I'm not sure what their vote was on the amendment.
More on this as it happens.
Monday, March 01, 2004
Lansing State Journal Editorial Fisks itself
The Lansing State Journal today has an editorial advocating a renewal of the assault weapons ban on the grounds that...well they state the ban doesn't do anything so we ought to keep it as a small way to curtail the weaponry "in the community".
So lets begin our look at this editorial:
10-year-old federal ban on a variety of assault weapons will soon expire. Democrats were spending last weekend trying to marshal votes in the U.S. Senate to extend the ban. But Republican leaders in the House say they have no intention of voting on the idea.
Allowing this measure to lapse is wrong-headed, simply because there's a difference between weapons for hunting and self-defense and weapons or variants aimed for military use.
Hmm, are not "weapons or variants aimed for military use" by definition weapons for self-defense? Indeed the assault weapons banned are not even used by the military,but are used for hunting and self-defense.
The National Rifle Association wants the ban to expire. It argues, correctly, that statistics don't show a relationship between assault weapons and the rise and fall of crime. It also argues the ban intrudes into firearms that have multiple uses.
So the LSJ conceeds the ban has had no effect on crime whatsoever.
The group's Web site (www.nra.org) provides the legal definitions upon which the 1994 ban rests. Consider just one:
"A semiautomatic rifle that has an ability to accept a detachable magazine and has at least two of the following: a folding or telescoping stock; a pistol grip that protrudes conspicuously beneath the action of the weapon; a bayonet mount; a flash suppressor or threaded barrel; and a grenade launcher (included to scare people, since grenades and launchers are restricted by the National Firearms Act)."
We aren't military experts or gun makers, but doesn't this description leave one in mind of a military weapon? And isn't it possible to produce rifles for target shooting, for example, that don't have what appear to be military characteristics?
Yes, you definetly are not military experts or gun makers, and your emotional "isn't it possible to produce rifles for target shooting, for example, that don't have what appear to be military characteristics?" pleading makes no sense, considering that you just admitted you're not an expert in knowing what is a military characteristic. With your emotional argument, you conclude that a gun fires a bullet is enough to make it have a military characteristic.
And isn't our society better off, even marginally, with bans on weapon variants principally designed for military use?
How? you've already conceeded that there is no correlation between allowing law-abiding citizens the right to prurchase them and crime. Should we ban all other items in society that were once principally dsesigned for military use?
It may be possible to improve the assault weapons ban. There may be more precise language, or definitions that rest on different criteria. But the goal should be the same: to differentiate between weapons for self-defense, hunting and recreation and those meant for something else.
In other words you don't know the criteria, you've admitted they don't cause a problem, and you can't even define what you want to differentiate these weapons from but lamely declare it "something else" than hunting and recreation. News Flash to the LSJ: the so called "Assault weapons" are used by thousands of Americans for recreation, hunting, and self-defense, as such you're inconsistent when you want to renew such a ban.
The absence of an assault weapons ban won't spark a crime wave, just as its presence didn't eliminate crime. But it is a small thing we can - and should - do to curtail the weaponry in our communities.
In other words, it doesn't do anything to prevent or cause crime, but we should do it anyways, even after condescendingly noting in the editorial that the LSJ is not against people having firearms for self-defense, hunting and recreation, because the LSJ wants to curtail the weapons that could be used and possessed for self-defense, hunting and recreation.
Editors of the LSJ, by your own admissions, appeal to emotion, and contradictions, you unknowingly fisked yourselves.
So lets begin our look at this editorial:
10-year-old federal ban on a variety of assault weapons will soon expire. Democrats were spending last weekend trying to marshal votes in the U.S. Senate to extend the ban. But Republican leaders in the House say they have no intention of voting on the idea.
Allowing this measure to lapse is wrong-headed, simply because there's a difference between weapons for hunting and self-defense and weapons or variants aimed for military use.
Hmm, are not "weapons or variants aimed for military use" by definition weapons for self-defense? Indeed the assault weapons banned are not even used by the military,but are used for hunting and self-defense.
The National Rifle Association wants the ban to expire. It argues, correctly, that statistics don't show a relationship between assault weapons and the rise and fall of crime. It also argues the ban intrudes into firearms that have multiple uses.
So the LSJ conceeds the ban has had no effect on crime whatsoever.
The group's Web site (www.nra.org) provides the legal definitions upon which the 1994 ban rests. Consider just one:
"A semiautomatic rifle that has an ability to accept a detachable magazine and has at least two of the following: a folding or telescoping stock; a pistol grip that protrudes conspicuously beneath the action of the weapon; a bayonet mount; a flash suppressor or threaded barrel; and a grenade launcher (included to scare people, since grenades and launchers are restricted by the National Firearms Act)."
We aren't military experts or gun makers, but doesn't this description leave one in mind of a military weapon? And isn't it possible to produce rifles for target shooting, for example, that don't have what appear to be military characteristics?
Yes, you definetly are not military experts or gun makers, and your emotional "isn't it possible to produce rifles for target shooting, for example, that don't have what appear to be military characteristics?" pleading makes no sense, considering that you just admitted you're not an expert in knowing what is a military characteristic. With your emotional argument, you conclude that a gun fires a bullet is enough to make it have a military characteristic.
And isn't our society better off, even marginally, with bans on weapon variants principally designed for military use?
How? you've already conceeded that there is no correlation between allowing law-abiding citizens the right to prurchase them and crime. Should we ban all other items in society that were once principally dsesigned for military use?
It may be possible to improve the assault weapons ban. There may be more precise language, or definitions that rest on different criteria. But the goal should be the same: to differentiate between weapons for self-defense, hunting and recreation and those meant for something else.
In other words you don't know the criteria, you've admitted they don't cause a problem, and you can't even define what you want to differentiate these weapons from but lamely declare it "something else" than hunting and recreation. News Flash to the LSJ: the so called "Assault weapons" are used by thousands of Americans for recreation, hunting, and self-defense, as such you're inconsistent when you want to renew such a ban.
The absence of an assault weapons ban won't spark a crime wave, just as its presence didn't eliminate crime. But it is a small thing we can - and should - do to curtail the weaponry in our communities.
In other words, it doesn't do anything to prevent or cause crime, but we should do it anyways, even after condescendingly noting in the editorial that the LSJ is not against people having firearms for self-defense, hunting and recreation, because the LSJ wants to curtail the weapons that could be used and possessed for self-defense, hunting and recreation.
Editors of the LSJ, by your own admissions, appeal to emotion, and contradictions, you unknowingly fisked yourselves.
Thursday, February 26, 2004
Coin of the Week - A Denarius of Commodus
A Coin dated to 180-183 AD of the infamous Roman Emperor Commodus. Staring alongside Russel Crowe in the movie Gladiator.
On the obverse of the coin appears the head of Commodus
On the Reverse, Mars is holding a spear and trophy - a symbol of the Emperor's martial prowess.
There is no evidence that he killed Marcus Aurelius as depicted in the film. The film was correct in Commodus hosting a great many games and spectacles, and Commodus did apparently participate in gladiatorial combat in front of the crowds himself, not to mention dressing up like Hercules, which was unfortunately not depicted in the film.
Commodous, like many Roman Emperors came to a sticky end - Commodus was murded by being strangled in his bath by an athlete in a plot that apparently had the involvement of his mistress.
Click here for a brief bio of Commodus.
This coin is in VF condition and is for sale at Harlan J. Berk with an estimate (top selling price) of $90.00. Not a high price to pay for a silver coin of an infamous emperor.
John Kerry and Adbusters
Perhaps Adbuster's editor Kalle Lasn's antisemitic screed and advocation of terrorism in Adbusters may become a campaign issue.
What does John Kerry have to do with Adbusters you may ask and why might it become a campaign issue? The Answer is simple - his wife Teresa Heinz Kerry - and her donations in support of left-wing causes.
As noted in Front Pages article: Teresa Heinz Kerry: Bag Lady for the Radical Left, Teresa Heinz has given over $4 million dollars to the Tides Foundation.
One of the many leftist recipients of the Tides Foundation's largesse as can be seen in their 2002 report is Adbusters. Of course an anti-capitalist, anti-semite magazine cannot generate enough revenue to support itself, it needs the largess of the Left, to the tune of $81,753.00 in one year alone (they have received similar sized grants in many other years).
Thus Kerry's wife, through the Tides foundation is directly supporting a magazine advocating terrorism and anti-semitism.
One may only hope that someone will ask John Kerry if he supports this charitable giving and the causes to which it is being funelled.
What does John Kerry have to do with Adbusters you may ask and why might it become a campaign issue? The Answer is simple - his wife Teresa Heinz Kerry - and her donations in support of left-wing causes.
As noted in Front Pages article: Teresa Heinz Kerry: Bag Lady for the Radical Left, Teresa Heinz has given over $4 million dollars to the Tides Foundation.
One of the many leftist recipients of the Tides Foundation's largesse as can be seen in their 2002 report is Adbusters. Of course an anti-capitalist, anti-semite magazine cannot generate enough revenue to support itself, it needs the largess of the Left, to the tune of $81,753.00 in one year alone (they have received similar sized grants in many other years).
Thus Kerry's wife, through the Tides foundation is directly supporting a magazine advocating terrorism and anti-semitism.
One may only hope that someone will ask John Kerry if he supports this charitable giving and the causes to which it is being funelled.
Wednesday, February 25, 2004
Jordan Complains about Israeli Security Fence
The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan (prior to 1948 known as Transjordan), that well known upholder of Human Rights is testifying at the World Court complaining about Israel's security fence.
Al Hussein (Head of the Jordanian delegation) called the suicide bombings "horrific." But he also said they must be seen in the context of Israel's four-decade occupation of the West Bank and Gaza, which he called "dominating . . . and degrading" to Palestinians.
Instead of course, he advised that Israel to deal with the Palestinian Arabs as Jordan had in 1970-1971 when it went to war with the PLO on its territory, put down their uprising with a vengeance and drove them out of Jordan, killing at a minimum 2000 of the Palestinian Arabs. No he didn't really testify to that effect. Maybe he instead advised the court that Israel should not build the security fence and instead deal with the territory as Jordan had when it occupied the West Bank area from 1948-1967 - by annexing the territory to Jordan.
Ok he didn't testify to that effect either, but a little honesty in his testimony would have been refreshing.
Al Hussein (Head of the Jordanian delegation) called the suicide bombings "horrific." But he also said they must be seen in the context of Israel's four-decade occupation of the West Bank and Gaza, which he called "dominating . . . and degrading" to Palestinians.
Instead of course, he advised that Israel to deal with the Palestinian Arabs as Jordan had in 1970-1971 when it went to war with the PLO on its territory, put down their uprising with a vengeance and drove them out of Jordan, killing at a minimum 2000 of the Palestinian Arabs. No he didn't really testify to that effect. Maybe he instead advised the court that Israel should not build the security fence and instead deal with the territory as Jordan had when it occupied the West Bank area from 1948-1967 - by annexing the territory to Jordan.
Ok he didn't testify to that effect either, but a little honesty in his testimony would have been refreshing.
CD Price Fixing Settlement Check Arrives
Yesterday, even before this article was published, I received my check for $13.86 as part of the settlement.
It seems a number of record companies engaged in a price-fixing scheme:
The Distributor Defendants are: Capitol Records, Inc. d/b/a EMI Music Distribution, Virgin Records America, Inc., and Priority Records LLC; Time Warner, Inc., Warner-Elektra-Atlantic Corp., WEA, Inc., Warner Music Group, Inc., Warner Bros. Records, Inc., Atlantic Recording Corporation, Elektra Entertainment Group, Inc., and Rhino Entertainment Company; Universal Music & Video Distribution Corporation, Universal Music Group, Inc., and UMG Recordings, Inc.; Bertelsmann Music Group, Inc. and BMG Music; and Sony Music Entertainment Inc.
These distributors were sued by the various State's Attorney's General's Offices and this settlement resulted.
All of these defendants are also members of the RIAA, the group suing people who share music on the Internet, perhaps had they engaged in less price fixing, keeping the prices of CDs artifically high, there would have been less file sharing and more people legitimately buying the music.
Now should I buy a music CD with the money or really annoy these defendants and buy a pack of CD-Rs?
It seems a number of record companies engaged in a price-fixing scheme:
The Distributor Defendants are: Capitol Records, Inc. d/b/a EMI Music Distribution, Virgin Records America, Inc., and Priority Records LLC; Time Warner, Inc., Warner-Elektra-Atlantic Corp., WEA, Inc., Warner Music Group, Inc., Warner Bros. Records, Inc., Atlantic Recording Corporation, Elektra Entertainment Group, Inc., and Rhino Entertainment Company; Universal Music & Video Distribution Corporation, Universal Music Group, Inc., and UMG Recordings, Inc.; Bertelsmann Music Group, Inc. and BMG Music; and Sony Music Entertainment Inc.
These distributors were sued by the various State's Attorney's General's Offices and this settlement resulted.
All of these defendants are also members of the RIAA, the group suing people who share music on the Internet, perhaps had they engaged in less price fixing, keeping the prices of CDs artifically high, there would have been less file sharing and more people legitimately buying the music.
Now should I buy a music CD with the money or really annoy these defendants and buy a pack of CD-Rs?
Tuesday, February 24, 2004
Totten busts Adbusters
Totten delivers an exquisite beating of Adbusters' head editor, Kalle Lasn, who is an idiotarian, and an anti-semitic communist shmuck besides. Totten doesn't deliver a Fisking, just a good, solid beating, well done in a manner that is a joy to behold. Read this lovely beating right now.
New Entries on the Blogroll
I've now added the following blogs to my Blogroll as writers worthy of a daily read:
Michael J. Totten I just came across his blog when reading Instapundit. Simply excellent, exquisite, powerful, writing -- a must see.
VodkaPundit Penetrating commentary with a kiss of vermouth. Why I didn't blogroll him earlier I'm not sure as I've been regularly reading his blog.
Clayton Cramer's Blog -Excellent writing on Second Amendment issues.
Sunday, February 22, 2004
Ebert's Review of Osama misses the mark
Roger Ebert's review of the movie Osama errs when after listing a slew of the Taliban's atrocities and mistreatments of women, so ably recounted in the film and as he mentions in the Film, The Circle about the treatment of women in the mullah's Iran, states that The real weapons of mass destruction are ... men.
Wrong Ebert, the real "weapons of mass destruction" here are the fundamentalist Islamists.
Ebert even contradicts his statement in his own review when he notes that In this country Janet Jackson bares a breast and causes a silly scandal. The Taliban would have stoned her to death. If you put these things into context, the Jackson case begins to look like an affirmation of Western civilization.
If Ebert hasn't noticed, Western civilization has a lot of men in it, and men aren't the problem here. Instead, it is fundamentalist Islam, with its misogynist and backwards view of women that is the cause of the horrors highlighted in the film Osama.
Wrong Ebert, the real "weapons of mass destruction" here are the fundamentalist Islamists.
Ebert even contradicts his statement in his own review when he notes that In this country Janet Jackson bares a breast and causes a silly scandal. The Taliban would have stoned her to death. If you put these things into context, the Jackson case begins to look like an affirmation of Western civilization.
If Ebert hasn't noticed, Western civilization has a lot of men in it, and men aren't the problem here. Instead, it is fundamentalist Islam, with its misogynist and backwards view of women that is the cause of the horrors highlighted in the film Osama.
Friday, February 20, 2004
You can't make this stuff up: Body mix-up during POW exchange deal: Terrorists demand 30 more bodies
From: Maariv international Edition
Arab paper: Israel made a mistake and gave Hezbollah the body of Jew instead of a Lebanese drug dealer. Hezbollah demanding bodies of 30 terrorists to correct the mistake.
Hezbollah claims that Israel made a mistake during the recent prisoner exchange and sent them the body of a Jew instead of that of Lebanese drug dealer Muhamed Biro who died in an Israeli prison when he was 70 years old.
Hmm, so now Israel has to go kill 30 terrorists to make up for the offense? I'm sure the IDF would be willing to accomodate Hezbollah's demands.
Also worthy of note is Hezbollah is making all this fusss over the body of a Drug Dealer...I didn't realize that the Hezbollah was not only a terrorist group but also a drug legalization advocacy group, maybe that's why Reuters still can't bring itself to characterize them as a terrorist group, after all it does so much more than just commit acts of terrorism.
Arab paper: Israel made a mistake and gave Hezbollah the body of Jew instead of a Lebanese drug dealer. Hezbollah demanding bodies of 30 terrorists to correct the mistake.
Hezbollah claims that Israel made a mistake during the recent prisoner exchange and sent them the body of a Jew instead of that of Lebanese drug dealer Muhamed Biro who died in an Israeli prison when he was 70 years old.
Hmm, so now Israel has to go kill 30 terrorists to make up for the offense? I'm sure the IDF would be willing to accomodate Hezbollah's demands.
Also worthy of note is Hezbollah is making all this fusss over the body of a Drug Dealer...I didn't realize that the Hezbollah was not only a terrorist group but also a drug legalization advocacy group, maybe that's why Reuters still can't bring itself to characterize them as a terrorist group, after all it does so much more than just commit acts of terrorism.
Thursday, February 19, 2004
New York Times Praises Al-Jazeera
The New York Times, that well-known bastion of objectivity and ethics, now praises (uncritically and with a straight face no less) Al Jazeera as providing "Balanced Coverage".
The New York Times in its flattering puff-piece fails to mention that:
-Al Jazeera journalists actively supported anti-American forces in Iraq
-Al Jazeera's Website has ran antisemitic articles approvingly quoting Holocaust deniers
-Al Jazeera's Website is a Pro-Palestinian and biased look at the middle east and lauds suicide bomers as "self-sacrificing fighters" (How's that for the euphemism of the day?)
-Al Jazeera regularly runs anti-western coverage.
Interestingly the fawning NYT article also reports that Al Jazeera plans "Al Jazeera for kids." I can just imagine the first feature show: How to be a fair and balanced Suicide Bomber. Nice to see that investigative and objective journalism is still a lost art at the Times.
Hat tip and go forth and subscriber to it for more information: Honest Reporting.
The New York Times in its flattering puff-piece fails to mention that:
-Al Jazeera journalists actively supported anti-American forces in Iraq
-Al Jazeera's Website has ran antisemitic articles approvingly quoting Holocaust deniers
-Al Jazeera's Website is a Pro-Palestinian and biased look at the middle east and lauds suicide bomers as "self-sacrificing fighters" (How's that for the euphemism of the day?)
-Al Jazeera regularly runs anti-western coverage.
Interestingly the fawning NYT article also reports that Al Jazeera plans "Al Jazeera for kids." I can just imagine the first feature show: How to be a fair and balanced Suicide Bomber. Nice to see that investigative and objective journalism is still a lost art at the Times.
Hat tip and go forth and subscriber to it for more information: Honest Reporting.
Wednesday, February 18, 2004
Coin of the Week - A Sela of The Bar Kochba Revolt
Continuing with the Temple Theme of my last post, here's an appropriate coin:
This is a Silver Tetradrachm or in Hebrew a Sela of Year Two of the Bar Kochba War 132-135 C.E., Struck in 133/34 C.E.
On the Obverse: Facade of the Temple in Jerusalem (yes, upon the Temple Mount, take that Waqf!) with ark and scrolls viewed from end in center; on two sides 'Jerusalem.'
On the Reverse: Lulav with etrog at left; Hebrew around 'Year two of the freedom of Israel.'
This coin is in Extremely Fine condition and is for sale at Amphora Coins for $4,800.00. Not an inexpensive coin by any means, but one of outstanding historical significance and rarity. The coin is yet one more item of proof of a Jewish presence in jerusalem and upon the Temple Mount.
Now I of course will not object if someone hits the Amazon Tip Box on my site and contributes so I can save up to buy and preserve this wonderful coin.
This is a Silver Tetradrachm or in Hebrew a Sela of Year Two of the Bar Kochba War 132-135 C.E., Struck in 133/34 C.E.
On the Obverse: Facade of the Temple in Jerusalem (yes, upon the Temple Mount, take that Waqf!) with ark and scrolls viewed from end in center; on two sides 'Jerusalem.'
On the Reverse: Lulav with etrog at left; Hebrew around 'Year two of the freedom of Israel.'
This coin is in Extremely Fine condition and is for sale at Amphora Coins for $4,800.00. Not an inexpensive coin by any means, but one of outstanding historical significance and rarity. The coin is yet one more item of proof of a Jewish presence in jerusalem and upon the Temple Mount.
Now I of course will not object if someone hits the Amazon Tip Box on my site and contributes so I can save up to buy and preserve this wonderful coin.
Massive Destruction of Archaeological Artifacts
The Waqf, the Moslem Authority in charge of the Temple Mount in Jerusalem has been actively excavating and doing a lot of construction work on the site to build yet another Mosque. Not only is this work destablizing the mount and the already existing mosques upon it but it seems to be deliberately aimed at destroying any sign of a Jewish presence on the Mount.
As noted at Little Green Footballs, due to the excavation, a portion of the Temple Mount's stone embankment collapsed, most likely due to the digging and excavating.
Of course, as noted in the caption on LGF's page, the "militant Islamic group Hamas vowed February 16, 2004 to exact revenge against Israel over the collapse of a stone embankment". Amazing, when the Arabs are responsible for the collapse Hamas then blames Jews. Go figure.
The Waqf, without any archeological supervision is digging in the area of King Solomon's Stables and elsewhere on the mount, and seems to be bent on destroying any trace of the Jewish presence there and what the Temple Mount area actually looks like, even using artistically decorated stones from the Jewish Temple period as parts of a retaining wall.
Incredibly the Waqf denies that there is any Jewish presence:, "Jerusalem Mufti Shiekh Ekrima Sabri told Itim news agency Sunday that there are no historical artifacts that belong to the Jews on the Temple Mount and that construction work in the area is legitimate and legal. He added that the Palestinian and Muslin people have the right to renovate all parts of the mountain."
This is cultural destruction and barbarism that surpasses the Waqf's islamic bretheren, the Taliban and its destruction of the Budda statues in Afghanistan. Why does it surpass it? Because the Temple Mount is THE holiest site to Judaism and an important Christian site as well, while the Buddah statutes are not the holiest site to Buddhism.
The lack of world outrage and condemnation over this destruction is appalling. The Israeli Government needs to stop the Waqf from any further construction in order to preserve the holy site. It will be interesting to see whether the world condemns Israel for preventing the destruction of the site, or praises it for preserving this incredibly historic, culturally and religiously significant site - Most of you know what the World's reaction will be.
Update: Another good summary of the situation can be found here.
As noted at Little Green Footballs, due to the excavation, a portion of the Temple Mount's stone embankment collapsed, most likely due to the digging and excavating.
Of course, as noted in the caption on LGF's page, the "militant Islamic group Hamas vowed February 16, 2004 to exact revenge against Israel over the collapse of a stone embankment". Amazing, when the Arabs are responsible for the collapse Hamas then blames Jews. Go figure.
The Waqf, without any archeological supervision is digging in the area of King Solomon's Stables and elsewhere on the mount, and seems to be bent on destroying any trace of the Jewish presence there and what the Temple Mount area actually looks like, even using artistically decorated stones from the Jewish Temple period as parts of a retaining wall.
Incredibly the Waqf denies that there is any Jewish presence:, "Jerusalem Mufti Shiekh Ekrima Sabri told Itim news agency Sunday that there are no historical artifacts that belong to the Jews on the Temple Mount and that construction work in the area is legitimate and legal. He added that the Palestinian and Muslin people have the right to renovate all parts of the mountain."
This is cultural destruction and barbarism that surpasses the Waqf's islamic bretheren, the Taliban and its destruction of the Budda statues in Afghanistan. Why does it surpass it? Because the Temple Mount is THE holiest site to Judaism and an important Christian site as well, while the Buddah statutes are not the holiest site to Buddhism.
The lack of world outrage and condemnation over this destruction is appalling. The Israeli Government needs to stop the Waqf from any further construction in order to preserve the holy site. It will be interesting to see whether the world condemns Israel for preventing the destruction of the site, or praises it for preserving this incredibly historic, culturally and religiously significant site - Most of you know what the World's reaction will be.
Update: Another good summary of the situation can be found here.
Tuesday, February 10, 2004
On Ancient Coin Jewelry
Coins have been used as part of jewelry perhaps for as long as coins have existed.
Today, many fine examples of coin jewelry abound, using both ancient and modern coins in precious and base metals as part of the design for necklaces, earrings, rings, cufflinks and more.
The use of ancient coins in jewelry poses somewhat of a quandry to an ancient numismatist: While modern coins are extremely plentiful and minted by the millions, ancient coins are a scarcer resource and are obviously not being produced anymore.
Jewelry featuring, for example, American Gold Eagle coins, while it eliminates the numismatic value of a bullion coin, the final product exceeds that base value and does not really affect the cost of other American Eagle or other gold bullion coins, as they are so plentiful.
But, when a highly artistic ancient coin of exceptional quality is mounted in jewelry, the numismatic value of it is lost and it also affects the price of other similar ancient coins by making that type scarcer. Mounting such a piece may also cause it to lose relative value over time as high-grade unmounted coins tend to appreciate in value.
On the other hand, ancient coins that are plentiful and below the high-end collector grades are often made into jewlery and the product often exceeds the numismatic value of the coin by a considerable margin. A common, worn coin costing perhaps $30 at a coin show or from a dealer's bargain list may be mounted in a precious-metal jewelry item and sold for five or even ten times its numismatic value, as the resulting product turns an otherwise unexceptional coin into a feature of a beautiful new creation.
As a numismatist, I of course do not want to see the high grade, collectible coins mauled and formed into jewelry so that their intrinsic value is reduced. But, I have no problem with lower grade, more common coins being turned into artistic pieces for sale. Such jewelry offers buyers unique products and also makes ancient coins visible and interesting to the public. Then again, if someone wants to treat their property in a fashion differently than I would prefer, who am I to decide for them?
A good place to look for and at examples of coin jewelry is Porat Jewlry which has a nice selection of coin-based jewelry as well as other products. I've ordered other jewelry (I haven't bought any coin jewelry myself yet) from Porat and was very pleased with the product and service. Their coins fit my definition of commoner types, so I have no quandry in directing you there to look and enjoy, and perhaps to buy and wear (note - Coin Jewelry is a very unique gift for Valentines Day that may get you in the good graces of your significant other).
Today, many fine examples of coin jewelry abound, using both ancient and modern coins in precious and base metals as part of the design for necklaces, earrings, rings, cufflinks and more.
The use of ancient coins in jewelry poses somewhat of a quandry to an ancient numismatist: While modern coins are extremely plentiful and minted by the millions, ancient coins are a scarcer resource and are obviously not being produced anymore.
Jewelry featuring, for example, American Gold Eagle coins, while it eliminates the numismatic value of a bullion coin, the final product exceeds that base value and does not really affect the cost of other American Eagle or other gold bullion coins, as they are so plentiful.
But, when a highly artistic ancient coin of exceptional quality is mounted in jewelry, the numismatic value of it is lost and it also affects the price of other similar ancient coins by making that type scarcer. Mounting such a piece may also cause it to lose relative value over time as high-grade unmounted coins tend to appreciate in value.
On the other hand, ancient coins that are plentiful and below the high-end collector grades are often made into jewlery and the product often exceeds the numismatic value of the coin by a considerable margin. A common, worn coin costing perhaps $30 at a coin show or from a dealer's bargain list may be mounted in a precious-metal jewelry item and sold for five or even ten times its numismatic value, as the resulting product turns an otherwise unexceptional coin into a feature of a beautiful new creation.
As a numismatist, I of course do not want to see the high grade, collectible coins mauled and formed into jewelry so that their intrinsic value is reduced. But, I have no problem with lower grade, more common coins being turned into artistic pieces for sale. Such jewelry offers buyers unique products and also makes ancient coins visible and interesting to the public. Then again, if someone wants to treat their property in a fashion differently than I would prefer, who am I to decide for them?
A good place to look for and at examples of coin jewelry is Porat Jewlry which has a nice selection of coin-based jewelry as well as other products. I've ordered other jewelry (I haven't bought any coin jewelry myself yet) from Porat and was very pleased with the product and service. Their coins fit my definition of commoner types, so I have no quandry in directing you there to look and enjoy, and perhaps to buy and wear (note - Coin Jewelry is a very unique gift for Valentines Day that may get you in the good graces of your significant other).
Monday, February 09, 2004
Blacks in Michigan disenfranchised by the Democratic party...news at?
First Florida (a butterfly ballot drafted by a Democrat) and now the Michigan Democrat caucus, oh, the shame of it.
Reported in the Sunday oakland Press, but apparently not available online was a story that many Detroit Blacks were disenfranchised and unable to vote due to the machinations or incompetencies (you pick which one) of the Democrats.
Polling places had their locations changed to prevent these democrats from voting as they couldn't find the new locations. There is even talk of various Black groups filing a lawsuit to overturn this primary election and rehold it due to the widespread disenfranchisement that took place.
On searching the web, this story is buried in an article in the Detroit News:
The state Democratic Party had posted the caucus sites on its Web page and mailed Democratic voters a list of caucus sites statewide, but that list wasn't accurate on Saturday. Brewer denied accusations from the state directors of Howard Dean and John Edwards' campaigns that the problems were disenfranchising presidential caucus voters.
"You're talking about 1 to 2 percent of 600 caucus sites (being moved) around the state," Brewer said. "Nobody's disenfranchised. ... I think this is much ado about nothing on the part of the Dean campaign."
Edwards state director Derek Albert, however, said most of the moved sites were affecting minority voters and were robbing them of their right to vote.
"This is worse than in the '60s," said Albert, who also is chairman of the Michigan Democratic Party Black Caucus. "This is horrible. This election needs to be stopped. Because this is not right."
Why this story of how the Democrats seem to have disenfranchised many Black eligible voters, and "robbed" them of their right to vote is not frontpage news across the state, if not the nation is beyond this pundit. I'm shocked, simply shocked that there is no great moral outrage against the Democrats preventing minorities from voting.
Reported in the Sunday oakland Press, but apparently not available online was a story that many Detroit Blacks were disenfranchised and unable to vote due to the machinations or incompetencies (you pick which one) of the Democrats.
Polling places had their locations changed to prevent these democrats from voting as they couldn't find the new locations. There is even talk of various Black groups filing a lawsuit to overturn this primary election and rehold it due to the widespread disenfranchisement that took place.
On searching the web, this story is buried in an article in the Detroit News:
The state Democratic Party had posted the caucus sites on its Web page and mailed Democratic voters a list of caucus sites statewide, but that list wasn't accurate on Saturday. Brewer denied accusations from the state directors of Howard Dean and John Edwards' campaigns that the problems were disenfranchising presidential caucus voters.
"You're talking about 1 to 2 percent of 600 caucus sites (being moved) around the state," Brewer said. "Nobody's disenfranchised. ... I think this is much ado about nothing on the part of the Dean campaign."
Edwards state director Derek Albert, however, said most of the moved sites were affecting minority voters and were robbing them of their right to vote.
"This is worse than in the '60s," said Albert, who also is chairman of the Michigan Democratic Party Black Caucus. "This is horrible. This election needs to be stopped. Because this is not right."
Why this story of how the Democrats seem to have disenfranchised many Black eligible voters, and "robbed" them of their right to vote is not frontpage news across the state, if not the nation is beyond this pundit. I'm shocked, simply shocked that there is no great moral outrage against the Democrats preventing minorities from voting.
No Surprise, Kerry wins in Michigan
Kerry as expected finished first with 50% of the caucus vote, with Dean in a "close" second with 17%. Source: The Oakland press
One nice feature of the article is all the fun quotes from Democrats. At least one democrat caucus voter seems to be aware that Social Security is a Ponzi scheme, but that seems to be ok with him:
Lawrence Hardy cast his vote at city hall for Dean, saying "I just like the way he talks."
The Pontiac resident said he was voting Democratic "so people can get jobs and I can grow my social security.".
One nice feature of the article is all the fun quotes from Democrats. At least one democrat caucus voter seems to be aware that Social Security is a Ponzi scheme, but that seems to be ok with him:
Lawrence Hardy cast his vote at city hall for Dean, saying "I just like the way he talks."
The Pontiac resident said he was voting Democratic "so people can get jobs and I can grow my social security.".
Friday, February 06, 2004
Al Sharpton joins in as Plaintiff against Michigan Civil Rights Initiative Group
The Michigan Civil Rights Initiative group is attempting to place on the November 2004 ballot a referrendum question allowing Michigan's voters to decide if racial preferences should be permitted in public education and government. Of course, opponents, fearing the refferendum would pass by an overwhelming margin are attemptinto stop it from reaching the ballot.
These same opponents of the referendum, who claimed that as Californian civil rights activist Ward Connerly was assisting the refferendum efforts it was an attempt by "Out of staters" to force their will on Michigan have added a new plaintiff to their case: The out-of-stater and Democrat Presidiential hopeful Al Sharpton.
Pot....Kettle....Affirmative Action Proponents.
These same opponents of the referendum, who claimed that as Californian civil rights activist Ward Connerly was assisting the refferendum efforts it was an attempt by "Out of staters" to force their will on Michigan have added a new plaintiff to their case: The out-of-stater and Democrat Presidiential hopeful Al Sharpton.
Pot....Kettle....Affirmative Action Proponents.
Thursday, February 05, 2004
Detroit News comes out against Michigan's policy on Interstate Wine
Michigan Wasting Effort Defending Outdated Wine Law: Prohibition era law, already declared unconstitutional, forbids interstate shipping of wine
reads the headline in the Detroit News editorial, and they're right. Glad to see both major Detroit papers standing against this ban and the AG's pursuit of an appeal to the Supreme court. The paper even shot down the "it's for the children" argument in favor of the current ban.
Hopefully the AG takes heed and drops the suit, or the Supreme Court backs the 6th and other Circuit court decisions that have held such bans to be violations of the commerce clause.
reads the headline in the Detroit News editorial, and they're right. Glad to see both major Detroit papers standing against this ban and the AG's pursuit of an appeal to the Supreme court. The paper even shot down the "it's for the children" argument in favor of the current ban.
Hopefully the AG takes heed and drops the suit, or the Supreme Court backs the 6th and other Circuit court decisions that have held such bans to be violations of the commerce clause.
Michigan Dem establishment backs Kerry
Not Surprisingly, since her husband is the coordinator of the Kerry campaign, Michigan's governor has endorsed Kerry for the Dem nomination. In addition both of Michigan's senators, Levin, Stabenow back Kerry.
So it seems that Kerry is now The Michigan Dem establishment's candidate. The polls likewise put Kerry far out in the lead with 56% of likely voters with Dean in second with only 9%.
It looks like other candidates have, looking at this commanding lead decided not to fight as hard in Michigan, which is a shame. The Michigan dems have a habit of backing a flamboyant, in-your-face type of candidate, and Dean would likely appeal to many, especially the Ann Arbor Dem set. After all, The Dems in the previous gubernatorial race backed Trial lawyer Geoffrey Fieger who was the definition of in-your-face against John Engler (Fieger lost).
You may ask why then isn't there a greater support for Fieger's fellow trial lawyer John Edwards? Because Fieger had - and has - flamboyance, style, panache, and Edwards comes across as a wet noodle.
I would think that Dean should try harder in Michgian, given the left-set in Ann Arbor and elsewhere. His effort would at least make the primary interesting to watch rather than it being a foregone conclusion of the appointment of the new Dem establishment candidate.
What happened to "and Michigan" Yeaaarrgh?
So it seems that Kerry is now The Michigan Dem establishment's candidate. The polls likewise put Kerry far out in the lead with 56% of likely voters with Dean in second with only 9%.
It looks like other candidates have, looking at this commanding lead decided not to fight as hard in Michigan, which is a shame. The Michigan dems have a habit of backing a flamboyant, in-your-face type of candidate, and Dean would likely appeal to many, especially the Ann Arbor Dem set. After all, The Dems in the previous gubernatorial race backed Trial lawyer Geoffrey Fieger who was the definition of in-your-face against John Engler (Fieger lost).
You may ask why then isn't there a greater support for Fieger's fellow trial lawyer John Edwards? Because Fieger had - and has - flamboyance, style, panache, and Edwards comes across as a wet noodle.
I would think that Dean should try harder in Michgian, given the left-set in Ann Arbor and elsewhere. His effort would at least make the primary interesting to watch rather than it being a foregone conclusion of the appointment of the new Dem establishment candidate.
What happened to "and Michigan" Yeaaarrgh?
Wednesday, February 04, 2004
In praise of Netflix
Tyler Cowan at Marginal Revolutions has an entry with some good things to say about Netflix.
I started a membership with Netflix this January and I have been quite impressed myself with this service.
Movies are shipped quickly and you receive emails when the movies are shipped to you and when Netflix has received them back. The only slowdowns I've seen are during postal holidays, which are not Netflix's fault.
I'm impressed with the selection, which includes many movies, and especially TV series sets of DVDs (such and the X-Files, 24, Poirot, etc) that many video stores simply don't carry,
For $19.95 per month plus tax, you can have three DVDs out at any one time. Given the transit time for travel of the DVDs to and from Netflix is about a week, if you watch the movie on the night you receive it, you can get on average three movies per week, or 12 movies a month for a cost of about $1.60 per movie, which beats most video stores for cost, especailly for the movies that are increasingly inappropriately labelled "new releases" (how does a video store get away with calling a movie that has been out on video for over six months a new release?).
I have been accused of maximizing by my wife as she is amused when i immediately watch a movie and then return it the following day. What can I say, except that I like to maximize my movie watching potential.
I started a membership with Netflix this January and I have been quite impressed myself with this service.
Movies are shipped quickly and you receive emails when the movies are shipped to you and when Netflix has received them back. The only slowdowns I've seen are during postal holidays, which are not Netflix's fault.
I'm impressed with the selection, which includes many movies, and especially TV series sets of DVDs (such and the X-Files, 24, Poirot, etc) that many video stores simply don't carry,
For $19.95 per month plus tax, you can have three DVDs out at any one time. Given the transit time for travel of the DVDs to and from Netflix is about a week, if you watch the movie on the night you receive it, you can get on average three movies per week, or 12 movies a month for a cost of about $1.60 per movie, which beats most video stores for cost, especailly for the movies that are increasingly inappropriately labelled "new releases" (how does a video store get away with calling a movie that has been out on video for over six months a new release?).
I have been accused of maximizing by my wife as she is amused when i immediately watch a movie and then return it the following day. What can I say, except that I like to maximize my movie watching potential.
The Free Press almost endorses Free trade in Wine
Impressivley, the Detroit Free Press in its editorial Out-of-State Wine: Better to compromise on sales than pursue appeal, declares that The Michigan Attorney general should instead of pursuing what will likely be a losing appeal in the Supreme Court, compromise with those who wish to be able to order wine from outside the state and arrange for "controlled direct-to-consumer shipments of beer and wine".
Not once does the Freep bring up the "its for the children" emotional argument in favor of the ban, and for that I thank them. I'm all for the protection of children, but permitting adults to legally purchase alcohol from other states, whether from online, catalog or mail order sources does not endanger kids any more than an adult being able to buy wine at the corner store.
I'm glad the Freep is arguing against the protectionist, unconstitutional restrtaint of commerce policies of the State of Michigan. Of course, I'd rather there be no controlled direct consumer shipments, but merely shipments. Allowing "control" may reopen the battle all over again, unless the control is limited say to the limit that an adult must sign for the alcohol on delivery and it cannot be purchased by underage people.
Not once does the Freep bring up the "its for the children" emotional argument in favor of the ban, and for that I thank them. I'm all for the protection of children, but permitting adults to legally purchase alcohol from other states, whether from online, catalog or mail order sources does not endanger kids any more than an adult being able to buy wine at the corner store.
I'm glad the Freep is arguing against the protectionist, unconstitutional restrtaint of commerce policies of the State of Michigan. Of course, I'd rather there be no controlled direct consumer shipments, but merely shipments. Allowing "control" may reopen the battle all over again, unless the control is limited say to the limit that an adult must sign for the alcohol on delivery and it cannot be purchased by underage people.
Tuesday, February 03, 2004
Michigan Schools "Sexing Up" Their Evaluations to Avoid Failing Grades
Looks like it isn't just the BBC that sexes up a report every now and then.
Some Michigan Schools are giving themselves the highest possible self-evaluation ratings to avoid getting a failing grade on their federal and state report cards grading themselves with an A to increase their average above F or D.
It is not an isolated occurrence as 76% of "troubled" schools statewide gave themselves A's on the report.
Read the whole sordid mess at the Detroit News: Schools give selves A's, avert failure
Some Michigan Schools are giving themselves the highest possible self-evaluation ratings to avoid getting a failing grade on their federal and state report cards grading themselves with an A to increase their average above F or D.
It is not an isolated occurrence as 76% of "troubled" schools statewide gave themselves A's on the report.
Read the whole sordid mess at the Detroit News: Schools give selves A's, avert failure
Monday, February 02, 2004
Arafat's Useless Idiots
Peace group united in desire to stop U.S. aid to Israel: Members of the group Jewish Witnesses For Peace and Friends acknowledge they're fighting an unpopular battle. Unpopular, how about acknowledging its battle is moronic, if not just idiotarian?
"Made up of a dozen or so Oakland County and Ann Arbor residents, the group is united by common political beliefs and weekly demonstrations in front of three prominent synagogues in Ann Arbor. Ah, a group with widespread popular support...all of a dozen or so idiots. Ok, it is Ann Arbor and such left-wing idiocy is to be expected, but shame oin the Oakland Press for giving it front page treatment in its paper. Hell you can find more than a dozen people in Ann Arnbor that want Congress to ban Dihydrous Oxide!
Now for a lovely idiotarian quote: If somebody built a wall in my backyard and I had to apply for a permit to get from my front yard to my back yard, I'd be upset," said Nolin. . Well my dear morally challenged Ara-drone, maybe you should refocus and be upset that those you're supporting have continually committed and attempted to commit suicide attacks against innocent civillians, and as a result the Israeli, like any government would, has moved to protect its civillians from your dear friends. The wall is a response to the terrorist attacks, not a cause. The security fence is working by reducing the number of attacks that get thorough. Too bad if the terrorists and their enablers are upset that its going to be harder for them to attack innocents and they are inconvenienced. They had plenty of opportunities for peace and they have rejected all of them.
A pity my dear Ara-drone that you fail to condemne these attacks and instead try and castigate Israel, the victim, rather than blame the attackers. If there were no suicide attacks, heck if they were any Arabs in the territories in positions of leadership who were really serious about peace, the security fence would be uncessary.
In short, you're not even good enough to rank as one of Lenin's Useful Idiots, you and your Ara-dozen are thereby relegated to the term Useless Idiots. Keep on dreaming in peaceful Ann Arbor, where you ahve no worries about a suicide attack against you. Better yet, please refocus your energies and join with others in Ann Arbor who seek to ban Dihydrous Oxide, and leave the Middle East to those with a clue.
"Made up of a dozen or so Oakland County and Ann Arbor residents, the group is united by common political beliefs and weekly demonstrations in front of three prominent synagogues in Ann Arbor. Ah, a group with widespread popular support...all of a dozen or so idiots. Ok, it is Ann Arbor and such left-wing idiocy is to be expected, but shame oin the Oakland Press for giving it front page treatment in its paper. Hell you can find more than a dozen people in Ann Arnbor that want Congress to ban Dihydrous Oxide!
Now for a lovely idiotarian quote: If somebody built a wall in my backyard and I had to apply for a permit to get from my front yard to my back yard, I'd be upset," said Nolin. . Well my dear morally challenged Ara-drone, maybe you should refocus and be upset that those you're supporting have continually committed and attempted to commit suicide attacks against innocent civillians, and as a result the Israeli, like any government would, has moved to protect its civillians from your dear friends. The wall is a response to the terrorist attacks, not a cause. The security fence is working by reducing the number of attacks that get thorough. Too bad if the terrorists and their enablers are upset that its going to be harder for them to attack innocents and they are inconvenienced. They had plenty of opportunities for peace and they have rejected all of them.
A pity my dear Ara-drone that you fail to condemne these attacks and instead try and castigate Israel, the victim, rather than blame the attackers. If there were no suicide attacks, heck if they were any Arabs in the territories in positions of leadership who were really serious about peace, the security fence would be uncessary.
In short, you're not even good enough to rank as one of Lenin's Useful Idiots, you and your Ara-dozen are thereby relegated to the term Useless Idiots. Keep on dreaming in peaceful Ann Arbor, where you ahve no worries about a suicide attack against you. Better yet, please refocus your energies and join with others in Ann Arbor who seek to ban Dihydrous Oxide, and leave the Middle East to those with a clue.
MI Attorney General Appeals Wine sale decision to the Supreme Court
Seeking to uphold Michigan's ban on internet, catalog and mail-order wine sales, the Attorney general is appealing a decision of the Sixth Circuit Court that such a ban is unconstitutional AS it is in violation of the Commerce Clause, as reported in The Detroit News in an Article ALCOHOL AND THE CONSUMER: Wine buyers see red over law.
The strongest argument in favor of the current law is the 21st amendment, of course the most emoptional argument is that its "for the children" to stop them from purchasing alcohol online. Amazingly, most states allow such online sales and there have been no reports of masses of minors becoming shicker from online sales.
The current law restricts competition and consumer choice, and why should we ban adults from a beneficial activity and health (finding wine, beer and spirits that suit their interests and tastes - also a glass of red wine per day is supposedly good for you) just because some kid might use mommy's credit card to buy alcohol online. The argument doesn't wash as most dcarriers require an adult signature for delivery of alcohol and if a kid can't find someone to go to the corner store and buy him a six-pack, he's not going to be smart enough to order alcohol online sucessfully either.
Hopefully the Supreme Court either refuses to hear the case or overrules this vintage law.
The strongest argument in favor of the current law is the 21st amendment, of course the most emoptional argument is that its "for the children" to stop them from purchasing alcohol online. Amazingly, most states allow such online sales and there have been no reports of masses of minors becoming shicker from online sales.
The current law restricts competition and consumer choice, and why should we ban adults from a beneficial activity and health (finding wine, beer and spirits that suit their interests and tastes - also a glass of red wine per day is supposedly good for you) just because some kid might use mommy's credit card to buy alcohol online. The argument doesn't wash as most dcarriers require an adult signature for delivery of alcohol and if a kid can't find someone to go to the corner store and buy him a six-pack, he's not going to be smart enough to order alcohol online sucessfully either.
Hopefully the Supreme Court either refuses to hear the case or overrules this vintage law.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
