This guy needs to take a 'chill pill'. Talk about being stuck in a rut. He's living on a seven year old thought! And this 'thought' is so narrow-minded, he can't possibly be taken seriously - even by those that may have agreed with his faulty logic in the first place!
Thursday, September 30, 2004
Kerry: "Now what do we complain about?"
Latest Business News and Financial Information | Reuters.com: "'It looks like the economy wasn't all that soft in the second quarter,' said economist Gary Thayer of A.G. Edwards and Sons Inc. in St. Louis, Missouri. 'Generally, it shows the economy healthy and seeing growth in most categories.'"
Item in "Best of the Web" today
'Debate Response Team'
Now we know how John Kerry plans to "win" tonight's debate. We received an e-mail this afternoon from Terry McAuliffe, chairman of the Democratic National Committee, on behalf of the DNC's "debate response team." Recipients are urged to help the campaign spin the debate:
Now we know how John Kerry plans to "win" tonight's debate. We received an e-mail this afternoon from Terry McAuliffe, chairman of the Democratic National Committee, on behalf of the DNC's "debate response team." Recipients are urged to help the campaign spin the debate:
- "National and local news organizations will be conducting online polls during and after the debate asking for readers' opinions. Look for online polls at these national news websites, and make sure to vote in every one of them."
- "Immediately after the debate, go online and write a letter to the editor of your local paper. If you feel John Kerry commanded the debate and had a clear plan for fixing the mess in Iraq, put it in your letter. If you feel George Bush dodged tough questions on Iraq and didn't level with voters, put it in your letter."
- "Do you listen to national or local call-in shows on the radio? How about on TV? Call them and let them know what you thought of John Kerry's plan to keep America secure and George Bush's continuing refusal to admit the truth about his record."
"Your actions immediately after the debate tonight can help John Kerry win on November 2," the e-mail says. Do these guys really think such cheerleading is what wins presidential elections?
ME: In other words, don't actually listen to the debate, just tell as many people as you can that John Kerry won it!
Baghdad bombs kill 35 CHILDREN!
Kerry team doesn't want warning lights
BostonHerald.com - Kerry aide says debate shouldn't look like 'game show': "The Kerry people are objecting to the positioning of warning lights on each of the lecterns -- which will signal when a candidate's time is up. Kerry's advisers say it's too distracting. They warned that if the debate organizers don't remove the lights -- they may do so themselves. "
Of course, this wouldn't have anything to do with the fact that John Kerry can't complete a thought in under three weeks, does it?
Debate officials say the lights will stay where they are.
Good for them!
Of course, this wouldn't have anything to do with the fact that John Kerry can't complete a thought in under three weeks, does it?
Debate officials say the lights will stay where they are.
Good for them!
UK: Troops-out of Iraq call defeated
Looks like they 'get it' in the UK. Thank you to one of our "bribed and coerced" Allies!
BBC NEWS UK Politics Troops-out of Iraq call defeated: "The call for Mr Blair to set an early date for withdrawing the troops was defeated by 86% to 14%. "
BBC NEWS UK Politics Troops-out of Iraq call defeated: "The call for Mr Blair to set an early date for withdrawing the troops was defeated by 86% to 14%. "
As you watch the debate tonight...
...remember this:
"I think the judgment of a nominee who doesn't understand that having Saddam Hussein captured will make it extraordinarily difficult to be able to beat an incumbent wartime president who captured Saddam Hussein. And let me tell you why, Tim. Saddam Hussein took us to war once before. In that war, young Americans were killed. He went to war in order to take over the oil fields. It wasn't just an invasion of Kuwait. He was heading for the oil fields of Saudi Arabia. And that would have had a profound effect on the security of the United States. This is a man who has used weapons of mass destruction, unlike other people on this Earth today, not only against other people but against his own people. This is a man who tried to assassinate a former president of the United States, a man who lobbed 36 missiles into Israel in order to destabilize the Middle East, a man who is so capable of miscalculation that he even brought this war on himself. This is a man who, if he was left uncaptured, would have continued to be able to organize the Ba'athists. He would have continued to terrorize the people, just in their minds, because of 30 years of terror in Iraq."
- Senator John Kerry on Meet the Press, January 11, 2004.
source
"I think the judgment of a nominee who doesn't understand that having Saddam Hussein captured will make it extraordinarily difficult to be able to beat an incumbent wartime president who captured Saddam Hussein. And let me tell you why, Tim. Saddam Hussein took us to war once before. In that war, young Americans were killed. He went to war in order to take over the oil fields. It wasn't just an invasion of Kuwait. He was heading for the oil fields of Saudi Arabia. And that would have had a profound effect on the security of the United States. This is a man who has used weapons of mass destruction, unlike other people on this Earth today, not only against other people but against his own people. This is a man who tried to assassinate a former president of the United States, a man who lobbed 36 missiles into Israel in order to destabilize the Middle East, a man who is so capable of miscalculation that he even brought this war on himself. This is a man who, if he was left uncaptured, would have continued to be able to organize the Ba'athists. He would have continued to terrorize the people, just in their minds, because of 30 years of terror in Iraq."
- Senator John Kerry on Meet the Press, January 11, 2004.
source
Derbyshire's reason to vote Republican
From John Derbyshire's September Diary on National Review Online:
Read the whole diary, there's more fun.
"If you ask me to state my one biggest reason for voting Republican, here is the answer: 'Madeleine Albright, Warren Christopher, Ed Muskie, Cyrus Vance.' Those are the names of the last four secretaries of state in Democratic administrations. Every one of them was willing ~ nay, eager ~ to permit himself to be hung upside down and shaken till the keys to the store came tumbling out of his pockets by operators much less ruthless than Kim Jong Il. Secretary Albright, in fact, once distinguished herself by standing at Kim's side laughing and clapping along while a Nork dance troupe performed a number titled something like: 'Drown the American Imperialist Pigs in a Sea of Fire!' Heaven preserve us from Democratic foreign policy."
Read the whole diary, there's more fun.
Exhibition Killing - A history lesson
"By refusing to come out with a categorical rejection of terrorism, Muslim leaders and opinion-makers are helping perpetuate a situation in which no one is safe. The 9/11 attacks against the United States were based on the claim, made by al Qaeda's No. 2, Ayman al-Zawahiri, that all citizens of democratic countries could be murdered because, being actual or potential voters, they have a share of responsibility for the policies of their governments.
The assumption that only Americans and Israelis are targeted has proved false as Islamists have murdered hundreds of peoples from all faiths, including Islam, in a dozen countries in the past three years. Today, it is enough for anyone to designate himself as an Islamic 'Mujahid,' fighting for Palestine and opposing the 'occupation' in Iraq, to get carte blanche from millions of Muslims, including many in authority, for kidnapping and 'exhibition killing.'
That no one, Muslim or 'infidel,' is safe was made clearer by a statement from Abu Anas al-Shami, the self-styled 'mufti' of al Qaeda, who was reportedly killed in Iraq in an American air attack last month. 'There are times when Mujahedeen cannot waste time finding out who is who in the battlefield,' he wrote. 'There are times when we have to assume that whoever is not on our side is the enemy.'
Al-Shami's position echoes a fatwa of the late Ayatollah Sadeq Khalkhali, one of the founders of the Islamic Republic in Iran. Ayatollah Khalkhali wrote: 'Among those we seize hostage or kill, some may be innocent. In that case, Allah will take them to his paradise. We do our job, He does His.'"
Read the whole thing.
The assumption that only Americans and Israelis are targeted has proved false as Islamists have murdered hundreds of peoples from all faiths, including Islam, in a dozen countries in the past three years. Today, it is enough for anyone to designate himself as an Islamic 'Mujahid,' fighting for Palestine and opposing the 'occupation' in Iraq, to get carte blanche from millions of Muslims, including many in authority, for kidnapping and 'exhibition killing.'
That no one, Muslim or 'infidel,' is safe was made clearer by a statement from Abu Anas al-Shami, the self-styled 'mufti' of al Qaeda, who was reportedly killed in Iraq in an American air attack last month. 'There are times when Mujahedeen cannot waste time finding out who is who in the battlefield,' he wrote. 'There are times when we have to assume that whoever is not on our side is the enemy.'
Al-Shami's position echoes a fatwa of the late Ayatollah Sadeq Khalkhali, one of the founders of the Islamic Republic in Iran. Ayatollah Khalkhali wrote: 'Among those we seize hostage or kill, some may be innocent. In that case, Allah will take them to his paradise. We do our job, He does His.'"
Read the whole thing.
"Creeping corruption" - really?
This morning's editorial in the The Capital Times suggests that corruption in the state legislature is "creeping", which I assume means growing worse. It suggests that representatives who sit on committees where they may have an interest, means they are taking advantage of a system "...that benefit them professionally and in their business dealings."
I'm not sure this is accurate. I, for one, would rather have representatives meeting in public and discussing the issues in full light-of-day, rather than sitting down with lobbyists and other interested parties, behind closed doors or 'over a meal'. At least we know where the representative stands on the issue - and why.
Additionally, the editorial suggests something more than the appearance of corruption. It re-enforces the notion that 'public service' is, by definition, noble and pure. Politics IS NOT public service. When someone decides to make a career out of being a politician, they have self-interest first and foremost in their minds and are taking advantage of a system "...that benefit them professionally and in their business dealings."
I'm not sure this is accurate. I, for one, would rather have representatives meeting in public and discussing the issues in full light-of-day, rather than sitting down with lobbyists and other interested parties, behind closed doors or 'over a meal'. At least we know where the representative stands on the issue - and why.
Additionally, the editorial suggests something more than the appearance of corruption. It re-enforces the notion that 'public service' is, by definition, noble and pure. Politics IS NOT public service. When someone decides to make a career out of being a politician, they have self-interest first and foremost in their minds and are taking advantage of a system "...that benefit them professionally and in their business dealings."
More Nader in WI
This JS Online editorial says it all: "The Democrats, in pursuing their efforts to keep Wisconsinites from voting for Nader, say it's really about fairness, making sure all campaigns play by the same rules. No, it's about the misguided notion that those Nader votes really belong to Sen. John Kerry."
Gloom is Not a Plan
from WSJ.com
During an NPR interview...Mr. Kerry stubbornly refused to say what he would do as president, on the ground that "I can't hypothesize as to what I am going to find on Jan. 20." So we should just 'trust' him, right?
On being better equipped to handle diplomacy, here are some examples of how he and his campaign have 'handled' our allies: Last week he all but called Iraq's Prime Minister Ayad Allawi a liar, and a Kerry aide described Mr. Allawi as "a puppet of the United States." And Diane Kerry, the candidate's sister and chief campaigner for expat votes, told a newspaper in Australia that terrorists have targeted that country because it "has kept faith with the U.S."
And finally, this promise: "I believe as a new president, with new credibility, with a fresh start, that I have the ability to be able to change the dynamics on the ground." Thus voters are left to decide if Mr. Kerry's personality alone is winning enough to win in Iraq. I don't see it.
During an NPR interview...Mr. Kerry stubbornly refused to say what he would do as president, on the ground that "I can't hypothesize as to what I am going to find on Jan. 20." So we should just 'trust' him, right?
On being better equipped to handle diplomacy, here are some examples of how he and his campaign have 'handled' our allies: Last week he all but called Iraq's Prime Minister Ayad Allawi a liar, and a Kerry aide described Mr. Allawi as "a puppet of the United States." And Diane Kerry, the candidate's sister and chief campaigner for expat votes, told a newspaper in Australia that terrorists have targeted that country because it "has kept faith with the U.S."
And finally, this promise: "I believe as a new president, with new credibility, with a fresh start, that I have the ability to be able to change the dynamics on the ground." Thus voters are left to decide if Mr. Kerry's personality alone is winning enough to win in Iraq. I don't see it.
Wednesday, September 29, 2004
Two Sentenced to Death in Yemen for Bombing U.S.S. Cole
Who says we're ignoring the war on terror because we're distracted in Iraq? Besides, as I've stated before, they are one in the same. NYT: Terrorists sentenced
Thomas Sowell: Privatizing Social Security
Thomas Sowell discusses the common sense economics of privatizing Social Security by demonstrating flaws in the current system in easy to understand terms. He addresses the issue in two articles:
Part One: "Would you sign a contract that enabled the other party to change the terms of that contract at will, while you could neither stop him nor make any changes of your own? Probably not. Yet that is exactly what happens when you pay money into Social Security."
and Part Two. Read them both. If everyone in America read these, they'd demand privatized Social Security.
Part One: "Would you sign a contract that enabled the other party to change the terms of that contract at will, while you could neither stop him nor make any changes of your own? Probably not. Yet that is exactly what happens when you pay money into Social Security."
and Part Two. Read them both. If everyone in America read these, they'd demand privatized Social Security.
More voter registration fraud
Voter registration drive comes under scrutiny: "'Project Vote has a very open hiring process, and sometimes you get people who are more worried about getting a paycheck than about doing the right thing,' Jones said." Well, that explains it. No problem there, huh?
More Outsourcing debunking
Daniel Drezner asks, and answers the question: "Where Did All the Jobs Go? Nowhere"
Climate Control, without question
An editorial in the Wall street journal today tells of the arrogance of supporters of climate control: WSJ.com: "...a recent Senate spending bill exempting climate programs from having to pass scientific scrutiny? The legislative language excuses any 'research and data collection, or information analysis conducted by or for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration' (the agency charged with monitoring climate change) from the Data Quality Act, a new law that requires sound science in policymaking. This is the sole exemption in the bill." How dare we question these scientists and their 'beliefs'.
And to demonstrate that 'news' is orchestrated, here's an editorial in the NYTs: Warnings on Warming
And to demonstrate that 'news' is orchestrated, here's an editorial in the NYTs: Warnings on Warming
Tuesday, September 28, 2004
NYT: Barriers to Student Voting
The New York Times has an editorial about making votes count in the November election. It cites, as a success, the New Voter Project (mentioned in a previous post) and their strong work in Wisconsin where they claim to have already registered more than 122,000 new, young voters! No mention of the fact that the vast majority of registrations are incomplete - most lacking any ID. 'That's not the issue. We just need to make sure the voter registration books are filled with potential names for our people - I mean - young people to vote!'
UPDATE: But then again, you don't want them voting for just anybody. The Dems in WI found a "willing" judge to throw Nader off the ballot on a minor technicality. Ah, democracy at work!
UPDATE: But then again, you don't want them voting for just anybody. The Dems in WI found a "willing" judge to throw Nader off the ballot on a minor technicality. Ah, democracy at work!
Place your bets!
This doesn't look good for the Kerry camp. Anyone willing to put some money on him?
Great Idea...
...filled with common sense. Therefore, it will never happen when politicians are involved:
WSJ.com- We'll Know When They're Serious: "As with corporations, someone from the outside has to decide exactly how to keep the books and inspect them for accuracy. Something analogous to the Federal Reserve, which keeps the awesome power to create money out of the hands of politicians, is needed. Fed members are nominated by the president and confirmed by the Senate for 14-year terms, with a chairman appointed from among them for a four-year term. They can only be removed for cause. A Federal Accounting Board, similarly structured, should set rules for how the government keeps its books and have the power to inspect those books."
Saturday, September 25, 2004
Can anyone help our friend Pete?
I'm confused. This was passed on to me, but I can't understand it. Maybe you can. I'm trying to get all this political stuff straightened out in my head so I'll know how to vote come November. Right now, we have one guy saying one thing. Then the other guy says something else. Who to believe. Lemme see; have I got this straight?
Clinton awards Halliburton no-bid contract in Yugoslavia - good...Bush awards Halliburton no-bid contract in Iraq - bad.
Clinton spends 77 billion on war in Serbia - good...Bush spends 87 billion in Iraq - bad.
Clinton imposes regime change in Serbia - good...Bush imposes regime change in Iraq - bad.
Clinton bombs Christian Serbs on behalf of Muslim Albanian terrorists- good...Bush liberates 25 million from a genocidal dictator - bad.
Clinton bombs Chinese embassy - good...Bush bombs terrorist camps - bad.
Clinton commits felonies while in office - good...Bush lands on aircraft carrier in jumpsuit - bad.
No mass graves found in Serbia - good...No WMD found Iraq - bad.
Stock market crashes in 2000 under Clinton - good...Economy on upswing under Bush - bad.
Clinton refuses to take custody of Bin Laden - good...World Trade Centers fall under Bush - bad.
Clinton says Saddam has nukes - good...Bush says Saddam has nukes - bad.
Clinton calls for regime change in Iraq - good...Bush imposes regime change in Iraq - bad.
Terrorist training in Afghanistan under Clinton - good...Bush destroys training camps in Afghanistan - bad.
Milosevic not yet convicted - good...Saddam turned over for trial - bad.
Ahh, it's so confusing! Every year an independent tax watchdog group analyzes the average tax burden on Americans, and then calculates the "Tax Freedom Day". This is the day after which the money you earn goes to you, not the government. This year, tax freedom day was April 11th. That's the earliest it has been since 1991. It's latest day ever was May 2nd, which occurred in 2000. Notice anything special about those dates?
Recently, John Kerry gave a speech in which he claimed Americans are actually paying more taxes under Bush, despite the tax cuts. He gave no explanation and provided no data for this claim. Another interesting fact: Both George Bush and John Kerry are wealthy men. Bush owns only one home, his ranch in Texas. Kerry owns 4 mansions, all worth several million dollars. (His ski resort home in Idaho is an old barn brought over from Europe in pieces. Not your average A-frame). Bush paid $250,000 in taxes this year; Kerry paid $90,000. Does that sound right? The man who wants to raise your taxes obviously has figured out a way to avoid paying his own. Pass this on. Only 30+ days until the election
Friday, September 24, 2004
Parliament forbids the entry of Madonna into Egypt
Wow, I thought this...:
"Egyptian Parliament members have submitted an order to Government demanding that American singer Madonna be prohibited from entering Egyptian soil.
...was based on her musical talents. Turns out it's only because she converted to Judaism. {Islam - the religion of peace}
"Egyptian Parliament members have submitted an order to Government demanding that American singer Madonna be prohibited from entering Egyptian soil.
...was based on her musical talents. Turns out it's only because she converted to Judaism. {Islam - the religion of peace}
More election fraud news
The world is a different place
Mark O. Hatfield: For me, choice for president is clear: Bush:
"As Oregon's governor, I was the only governor in the nation who refused to sign a statement supporting President Johnson's Vietnam War policy.
As a senator, I joined with Sen. George McGovern in an unsuccessful effort to end that war. I was the only senator who voted against both the Democrat and Republican resolutions authorizing the use of force in the 1991 Gulf War.
In my final years in the Senate, I opposed President Clinton's decision to send American troops to Bosnia.
During my 30 years in the Senate, I never once voted in favor of a military appropriations bill.
I know that this record will cause many to wonder why I am such a strong supporter of President Bush and his policy in Iraq. My support is based on the fact that our world changed on Sept. 11, 2001, a day on which we lost more American lives than we did in the attack on Pearl Harbor."
I know from my service in the Senate that Saddam Hussein was an active supporter of terrorism. He used weapons of mass destruction on innocent people and left no doubt that he would do so again. It was crucial to the cause of world peace that he be removed from power.
"As Oregon's governor, I was the only governor in the nation who refused to sign a statement supporting President Johnson's Vietnam War policy.
As a senator, I joined with Sen. George McGovern in an unsuccessful effort to end that war. I was the only senator who voted against both the Democrat and Republican resolutions authorizing the use of force in the 1991 Gulf War.
In my final years in the Senate, I opposed President Clinton's decision to send American troops to Bosnia.
During my 30 years in the Senate, I never once voted in favor of a military appropriations bill.
I know that this record will cause many to wonder why I am such a strong supporter of President Bush and his policy in Iraq. My support is based on the fact that our world changed on Sept. 11, 2001, a day on which we lost more American lives than we did in the attack on Pearl Harbor."
I know from my service in the Senate that Saddam Hussein was an active supporter of terrorism. He used weapons of mass destruction on innocent people and left no doubt that he would do so again. It was crucial to the cause of world peace that he be removed from power.
You're are the manager - who would you hire?
As I've said before, Thomas Sowell is one of my favorites:
"If the same job applicant who won't discuss his own qualifications just keeps complaining about the performance of someone whose job he wants to take, would you think that was enough reason to hire him?"
Are you kidding me?
When you read quotes like this, you wonder what kind of basic economic principles are taught, if any, let alone any serious discussion of peoples motives.
JS Online:: "Now a $9-per-hour supervisor, Kilgore said that the $5.15 minimum wage should be raised so he would have one more reason to try to talk Milwaukee teenagers out of selling drugs."
How about the small business who would love to hire someone but can't afford the cost - should they not be able to offer someone a job? And what about the person who is willing to work that job, for the wages offered? Are they prevented from accepting that job?
Why do we think there are thousands of illegal workers in this country, breaking both immigration and employment law? Because it's what the market will bear.
JS Online:: "Now a $9-per-hour supervisor, Kilgore said that the $5.15 minimum wage should be raised so he would have one more reason to try to talk Milwaukee teenagers out of selling drugs."
How about the small business who would love to hire someone but can't afford the cost - should they not be able to offer someone a job? And what about the person who is willing to work that job, for the wages offered? Are they prevented from accepting that job?
Why do we think there are thousands of illegal workers in this country, breaking both immigration and employment law? Because it's what the market will bear.
It's either Halloween or an election year...
...let the scare tactics begin.
As illustrated in this story, the Kerry campaign has begun, what has become, the standard practice of Democrats for years: Scare seniors by telling them that the Republicans are going to take away their Social Security! My colleague Andy will be happy his wait is over!
Of coarse, these 'tactics' fly in the face of FACTS:
"First it must be stressed that no proposal for an investment-based reform of Social Security (i.e., any plan that includes the creation of personal retirement accounts) would result in benefit cuts for current retirees or seniors near retirement. Not the president's proposal; not any plan currently before Congress. All of these plans keep current seniors in the current system and guarantee that they will receive all the benefits they are currently promised."
And they offer no solutions of their own (or even recognize a problem):
Amazingly, in neither Kerry’s public statements nor the accompanying nine-page fact sheet, did the Kerry campaign outline how he would reform the system to protect the retirement security of future generations. In fact, there wasn’t even an acknowledgment that there is a problem that requires a solution.
And more here
As illustrated in this story, the Kerry campaign has begun, what has become, the standard practice of Democrats for years: Scare seniors by telling them that the Republicans are going to take away their Social Security! My colleague Andy will be happy his wait is over!
Of coarse, these 'tactics' fly in the face of FACTS:
"First it must be stressed that no proposal for an investment-based reform of Social Security (i.e., any plan that includes the creation of personal retirement accounts) would result in benefit cuts for current retirees or seniors near retirement. Not the president's proposal; not any plan currently before Congress. All of these plans keep current seniors in the current system and guarantee that they will receive all the benefits they are currently promised."
And they offer no solutions of their own (or even recognize a problem):
Amazingly, in neither Kerry’s public statements nor the accompanying nine-page fact sheet, did the Kerry campaign outline how he would reform the system to protect the retirement security of future generations. In fact, there wasn’t even an acknowledgment that there is a problem that requires a solution.
And more here
Bloggers- The "suicide bombers" of the "civilized" world
For all the complaining the media - CBS, among others - has done about the 'pajamahdeen' bloggers, aren't we happy we live in the civilized half of the world, where people express their opinions with words rather than bombs around their waist?
For our Marquette fans and alum
war·ri·or ( P ) Pronunciation Key (wôr-r, wr-)n.
1. One who is engaged in or experienced in battle.
2. One who is engaged aggressively or energetically in an activity, cause, or conflict: neighborhood warriors fighting against developers.
JS Online: A logical take on MU nickname debate
Comments: This from CynicalB - a Marquette alum-
"That's precisely our problem," DePerry said. "Our problem is their ignorance in their perception that it is an honorable and prestigious thing. Listen. It is not. Not listening to us and taking that to some sense of seriousness, believing in such a thing is the problem."
There is a whole lot of tortured logic in this article, but this quote sums it up best - "...believing in such a thing is the problem.
"Let that roll around in your cranium for awhile. The Intertribal Council, and all the PC do-gooders, want the rest of us to have an open mind when it comes to the term "Warrior" and try to understand why it causes them such angst. But I think Mr. DePerry hits the real problem without even quite realizing what he is saying - the problem isn't the nickname, the problem is the thoughts of those of us that don't agree with him. [Read the whole comment]
1. One who is engaged in or experienced in battle.
2. One who is engaged aggressively or energetically in an activity, cause, or conflict: neighborhood warriors fighting against developers.
JS Online: A logical take on MU nickname debate
Comments: This from CynicalB - a Marquette alum-
"That's precisely our problem," DePerry said. "Our problem is their ignorance in their perception that it is an honorable and prestigious thing. Listen. It is not. Not listening to us and taking that to some sense of seriousness, believing in such a thing is the problem."
There is a whole lot of tortured logic in this article, but this quote sums it up best - "...believing in such a thing is the problem.
"Let that roll around in your cranium for awhile. The Intertribal Council, and all the PC do-gooders, want the rest of us to have an open mind when it comes to the term "Warrior" and try to understand why it causes them such angst. But I think Mr. DePerry hits the real problem without even quite realizing what he is saying - the problem isn't the nickname, the problem is the thoughts of those of us that don't agree with him. [Read the whole comment]
Thursday, September 23, 2004
John Kerry's Journey: Echoes of a 1972 Loss Haunt a 2004 Campaign
This is a bit long and drawn-out - typical of the NYT: John Kerry, Then & Now. My first take-away is: what's up with the word 'sear'? This is a re-occurring adjective that noticeably keeps appearing in articles (twice here) by and about John Kerry - and I don't thinks it's been all that favorable.
WI: 14 Point Lead for Bush
Althouse reports and critiques - for you fellow UW alumni, scroll down and check out her photos of Bascom Hill and State St. Great fall memories. Also, there's a link to another UW professor's blog with some interesting news about bacon!
The U.N. ? Who Cares . . .
There is just so much to say about the UN, but so little that matters. This is an organization that has effectively neutered itself through ineffectivenss over the years. This article, from the WSJ effectively chronicles the performance - or lack thereof. I've read numerous opinions and articles in the last year or so that highlight the missteps - especially the Food for Oil disaster. The UN can't even make those that support them happy. In this case, even when they criticize the Bush Administration, the timing is wrong.
Russ' new ad
Is it me or is this a bit condescending - cute, in a Russ kind of way - but condescending none the less. Does he really think we want him (i.e. government) questioning all aspects of our life.
{I recognize satire and other humor, but I also believe Russ and a few others think it is their job to question every aspect of our life - because we're not able to.}
{I recognize satire and other humor, but I also believe Russ and a few others think it is their job to question every aspect of our life - because we're not able to.}
John Fund on Voter Fraud
An update to an earlier post: Hat tip to Chris B -
John Fund on Voter Fraud on National Review Online: "'Some of the world's most clever people are attracted to politics, because that's where the power is,' says University of Virginia political scientist Larry Sabato. 'So they're always going to be one step ahead of the law.'"
How can Mexico have a more secure voting process than the US? And when the US ranks 139th out of 163 democracies in the world, in voter participation rates, our less secure, more open process, doesn't seem to be working all that well to attract voters to the booth. In fact, another quote cited makes some sense out of this lack of participation: "Nearly 10 percent of Americans believe their votes are not counted accurately, and almost as many worry that this is the case, according to a July 2004 poll by John Zogby."
It's time we move to requiring picture ID, presented at the polling site and require pre-registration at least one week in advance of an election (in Wisconsin, you can register on-site the day of an election with nothing more than a utility bill with an address!). We also need to create a cross-reference database to ensure that homeowners in two states (ie New York & Florida) don't vote twice.
John Fund on Voter Fraud on National Review Online: "'Some of the world's most clever people are attracted to politics, because that's where the power is,' says University of Virginia political scientist Larry Sabato. 'So they're always going to be one step ahead of the law.'"
How can Mexico have a more secure voting process than the US? And when the US ranks 139th out of 163 democracies in the world, in voter participation rates, our less secure, more open process, doesn't seem to be working all that well to attract voters to the booth. In fact, another quote cited makes some sense out of this lack of participation: "Nearly 10 percent of Americans believe their votes are not counted accurately, and almost as many worry that this is the case, according to a July 2004 poll by John Zogby."
It's time we move to requiring picture ID, presented at the polling site and require pre-registration at least one week in advance of an election (in Wisconsin, you can register on-site the day of an election with nothing more than a utility bill with an address!). We also need to create a cross-reference database to ensure that homeowners in two states (ie New York & Florida) don't vote twice.
Kerry Derides Allawi - Says he is making contradicting statements...
...isn't that the 'pot' calling the 'kettle' black? In addition, isn't this just another case of Kerry belittling another foreign leader. How does this kind of statement create a more positive world view of the US?
Kerry Derides Allawi's Take on Iraq as Unrealistic: "Shortly after Allawi, the interim government's prime minister, gave a rosy portrayal of progress toward peace in Iraq, Kerry said the assessment contradicted Allawi's own statements as well as the reality on the ground."
``I think the prime minister is, obviously, contradicting his own statement of a few days ago, where he said the terrorists are pouring into the country,'' Kerry said. ``The prime minister and the president are here obviously to put their best face on the policy, but the fact is that the CIA estimates, the reporting, the ground operations and the troops all tell a different story.''
And finally, is there anything positive that John Kerry can say about anything - ever?!
More criticism here from the pros.
Kerry Derides Allawi's Take on Iraq as Unrealistic: "Shortly after Allawi, the interim government's prime minister, gave a rosy portrayal of progress toward peace in Iraq, Kerry said the assessment contradicted Allawi's own statements as well as the reality on the ground."
``I think the prime minister is, obviously, contradicting his own statement of a few days ago, where he said the terrorists are pouring into the country,'' Kerry said. ``The prime minister and the president are here obviously to put their best face on the policy, but the fact is that the CIA estimates, the reporting, the ground operations and the troops all tell a different story.''
And finally, is there anything positive that John Kerry can say about anything - ever?!
More criticism here from the pros.
Wednesday, September 22, 2004
Resource for 527 activity in Wisconsin
WisPolitics.com has a good list of active 527's in the state of Wisconsin with links to their sites and other sources.
ACT: A '527' with a mission
WisPolitics.com: "As a 527, ACT is prohibited from supporting a particular candidate. But Walzak said ACT's goal is to elect Democrats up and down the ticket, and the 127,000 eligible African American voters in Milwaukee will play a major role in who takes Wisconsin in the presidential race. "
Irresponsible
A few weeks ago, Vice President Cheney was widely criticized for making a statement that was often misquoted by the media. That statement suggested that, if the country elects a Democratic administration in November and we return to the policies of the previous Democratic administration, we'd be more vulnerable to terrorist attacks on US soil. This was widely 'headlined' similarly to this: "Cheney says terrorists will attack if Kerry elected!"
Today, Democratic Presidential candidate, John Kerry suggested that, if George Bush is re-elected, he would re-institute the draft. This is reported here ABCNEWS.com : Kerry: Draft Likely to Return Under Bush.
Where's the media outrage for this?
UPDATE: I would have to say, after seeing footage of Kerry's appearance, the article I linked to at ABC misrepresented Kerry's statement - not unlike the media did with Cheney's. Kerry did not say "Bush will re-instate the draft if re-elected", but he did raise it as a possibility. What he didn't mention is, most of the support, including proposed bills in Congress, are being submitted by Democrats.
Today, Democratic Presidential candidate, John Kerry suggested that, if George Bush is re-elected, he would re-institute the draft. This is reported here ABCNEWS.com : Kerry: Draft Likely to Return Under Bush.
Where's the media outrage for this?
UPDATE: I would have to say, after seeing footage of Kerry's appearance, the article I linked to at ABC misrepresented Kerry's statement - not unlike the media did with Cheney's. Kerry did not say "Bush will re-instate the draft if re-elected", but he did raise it as a possibility. What he didn't mention is, most of the support, including proposed bills in Congress, are being submitted by Democrats.
Election fraud
This New Voters Project was a topic on Mark Belling this afternoon. This group is registering 'voters' in swing states, but most of the registrations received are missing identification information. This morning, Charlie Sykes mentioned the Tucker Carlson statement on NPR re: the potential exploitation of elderly voters suffering from Alzheimer' diseases and dementia by 'voter assistance' groups.
Both are troubling, but I fear only the tip of what is possible.
Both are troubling, but I fear only the tip of what is possible.
WI: Elections Board votes to put Nader on the ballot; Democrats might sue
As I mentioned previously, this is good for democracy. I know that Democrats will say that I - and others who believe this - only say so because it could negatively impact the Kerry vote, but I can honestly say that I supported (not with my vote, in either case) the addition of Pat Buchanan and Ross Perot on previous ballots. In fact, there was controversy in the first election I was eligible to vote: 1980. That year, John Anderson ran as an independent after failing to get the Republican candidacy. In my mind, that's what a democracy, liberty, and freedom is all about - choices. It's also about the citizen's responsibility to be informed before they exercise their right to vote.
BTW, I can't let the last line of the headline go without commenting. Typical.
JS Online: Elections Board votes to put Nader on the ballot; Democrats might sue
BTW, I can't let the last line of the headline go without commenting. Typical.
JS Online: Elections Board votes to put Nader on the ballot; Democrats might sue
Changing Kerry
There are countless articles, editorials, talking heads, and on-line pundits out there imploring John Kerry to change. They all have their view of who John Kerry needs to be and what he needs to project, in order to be President. What these people fail to realize, they are describing George Bush. "Be more decisive"- GWB is; "Tell us what you believe"- GWB does; "Tell the truth, even though we may not like it"- GWB does (see part two of that statement); "Stick to a single theme and defend it"- GWB does.
All these things are important. We want a leader who is consistent. Who does have a vision. Who is willing to make the tough - sometimes unpopular - decision, and stick with it. Especially in a time of war.
John Kerry is who he is. We all are. The longer we live, the more we define who we are. It is very difficult to make a change mid-life - let alone mid-campaign.
The Democrats should have known who John Kerry is - before they nominated him. Unfortunately for many of them, they were so caught up in the ABB frenzy, that they allowed a competent politician to convince them that he could be the Anybody.
In this New Republic article, many of the same desires are expressed. Please, John, change. It also suggests that GWB has an advantage - he only has one advisor (and an "evil" one to boot), whereas Kerry is "blessed" with thousands.
Obviously I have a different take. GWB only needs one advisor because he, himself, has beliefs and a vision of his own. Some people are not at all comfortable with his beliefs and vision, but more are. And there are even more that, while they disagree with GWB on social issues, will pull the lever in November for the candidate that is consistent and decisive on defending the US and securing our safety. This much was expressed by the actor Ron Silver, during the GOP convention. "I have many friends who are lifelong Democrats, who despise Republicans and will tell all their like-minded friends that they are voting for Kerry. But when the curtain closes on November 2nd, they'll close their eyes and pull the lever for that bastard, because they know it's the right thing to do."[paraphrased]
All these things are important. We want a leader who is consistent. Who does have a vision. Who is willing to make the tough - sometimes unpopular - decision, and stick with it. Especially in a time of war.
John Kerry is who he is. We all are. The longer we live, the more we define who we are. It is very difficult to make a change mid-life - let alone mid-campaign.
The Democrats should have known who John Kerry is - before they nominated him. Unfortunately for many of them, they were so caught up in the ABB frenzy, that they allowed a competent politician to convince them that he could be the Anybody.
In this New Republic article, many of the same desires are expressed. Please, John, change. It also suggests that GWB has an advantage - he only has one advisor (and an "evil" one to boot), whereas Kerry is "blessed" with thousands.
Obviously I have a different take. GWB only needs one advisor because he, himself, has beliefs and a vision of his own. Some people are not at all comfortable with his beliefs and vision, but more are. And there are even more that, while they disagree with GWB on social issues, will pull the lever in November for the candidate that is consistent and decisive on defending the US and securing our safety. This much was expressed by the actor Ron Silver, during the GOP convention. "I have many friends who are lifelong Democrats, who despise Republicans and will tell all their like-minded friends that they are voting for Kerry. But when the curtain closes on November 2nd, they'll close their eyes and pull the lever for that bastard, because they know it's the right thing to do."[paraphrased]
Nothing To Do With the Truth
The fighting taking place in Iraq is a battle in THE war on terror. They are not separate wars. This war is not like any we've seen in our lives. The terrorists are not seeking land, riches, resources, or any of the other tangible spoils of war that have defined previous wars we've known. They are after the hearts and minds of all people, regardless where they live, that have a different belief than them. That belief is freedom, liberty and independence. They refuse to allow those beliefs to exist on the same planet as them. They have their own, narrow interpretation of an historical writing, that millions of other read entirely differently. If left unchecked, they would think nothing of killing every man, woman and child who refused to bow to their will - and they prove it daily with their attacks on innocent people in all parts of the world. This article, Nothing To Do With the Truth does a great job of making the connections.
There will always be people with different beliefs in this world. We will never have total agreement on everything. But as long as there are people willing to kill and die for a belief, the rest of us must defend ourselves by taking the battle to them.
There will always be people with different beliefs in this world. We will never have total agreement on everything. But as long as there are people willing to kill and die for a belief, the rest of us must defend ourselves by taking the battle to them.
Car Free Day - Today
It's going to be a long walk. I picked the wrong day to go to Green Bay. WSJ.com
Tuesday, September 21, 2004
I know it shouldn't be a big deal, but I'm looking forward to next Monday when I get to climb aboard one of these babies and paint my house! How pathetic is that?
For what it's worth, a friend and neighbor at work suggested I could charge a few bucks for a ride in the bucket and have the rider paint while they're up there (al la, Tom Sawyer). Get the house painted and earn a few bucks to pay off the rental. Not bad!
OK. It's a 'guy' thing.
Which is it? "Touching generosity" or "Unwelcome anywhere"?
I'm confused, it seems that two quotes from the same article, in the Guardian Unlimited, contradict each other:
1. "The tourists have encountered only generosity from ordinary Afghans. 'We make quite a stir wherever we go,' said Dick Bogart, a retired computer salesman from San Francisco and grandfather of 10. 'It's been very touching.' "
2. "My main object in life is to get Bush out of the White House," said Connie Pencall, a retired teacher. "He is a terrible, terrible man. We are not welcomed anywhere any more."
Ahh. Maybe it's the obligatory bashing of President Bush that caused the confusion.
First "his wife's house", now House on the Rock?
I can't believe I heard (WTMJ Radio, 5:00 news) that John Kerry will be preparing for the upcoming presidential debates while staying at - get this - the The House on the Rock! I haven't found anything on-line to confirm this yet, but if accurate:
- First, what are his handlers thinking? Your candidate has been struggling in the polls for the better part of the last month and he has been labeled as an indecisive candidate with no firm beliefs and you pick a house on a rock?
- Next, he has had numerous turnovers in his campaign staff and you pick a house on a rock?
- And finally - NO ONE goes to the House on the Rock. I guess he'll be well rested and undisturbed.
UPDATE: Confirmed here. Unbelievable - for the reasons above and more.
Say it isn't so, Tyler!
IHT: U.S. cyclist ensnared in doping scandal
UPDATE: from Joe McCarthy -Hamilton to keep his gold medal
with Personal message:
I hope they prove the tests are inaccurate or flawed. These guys give blood or urine and the sample is left with a whole line of other people who could manipulate what happens. I, for one, am skeptical of the whole process.
UPDATE: from Joe McCarthy -Hamilton to keep his gold medal
with Personal message:
I hope they prove the tests are inaccurate or flawed. These guys give blood or urine and the sample is left with a whole line of other people who could manipulate what happens. I, for one, am skeptical of the whole process.
Diana Kerry Speaks Australian
From The Weekly Standard, Diana Kerry thinks that US policies are endangering Australian citizens
Money quote:
Money quote:
Australia is a target for terrorists because of the ideals and beliefs that Australia shares with the United States and other Western countries. Would Ms. Kerry have Australians give those up to remain safe?
NYT: Last Deception ~ Really?
I know that Krugman has been on vacation, but it wasn't that long. Did he have his mind erased on this trip?
Here's his lead today:
Here's his obligatory 'belittling' (i.e. 'bribed and coerced') statement re: foreign leaders:
Has he not read any major newspaper - including his own - or seen any television news broadcast, or any so-called 'documentaries' in the past 18 months letting us, the sheltered public, know just how bad things are in Iraq?
UPDATE: Running spell check on these posts is very refreshing. Especially when I get to press the 'ignore' button when "Krugman" is questioned!
Here's his lead today:
President Bush is hoping to keep the Iraq disaster under wraps for a few more weeks.
Here's his obligatory 'belittling' (i.e. 'bribed and coerced') statement re: foreign leaders:
"Now Mr. Bush hopes that by pretending that Mr. Allawi is a real leader of a real government, he can conceal the fact that he has led America into a major strategic defeat."
Has he not read any major newspaper - including his own - or seen any television news broadcast, or any so-called 'documentaries' in the past 18 months letting us, the sheltered public, know just how bad things are in Iraq?
UPDATE: Running spell check on these posts is very refreshing. Especially when I get to press the 'ignore' button when "Krugman" is questioned!
As if he's any different than the rest of us...
...don't you think some enterprising young lawyer could turn this into some kind of class action effort?
WI: More good news on the job front
JS Online: State job comeback speedy : Through August, Wisconsin gained 63,000 jobs this year, second only to Florida among 19 closely contested states, according to preliminary seasonally adjusted figures. In percentage terms, only Nevada did better than the 2.3% increase in Wisconsin's payrolls.
Study calls for state spending restraints
Unfortunately, we've heard this before. In fact, the story reports that state government established a commission to address this issue in the mid-80's that was ultimately ignored.
Wisconsin taxpayers lost 21.4% of their personal income to taxes in 2002, higher than the national average of 19.9%, the Wisconsin Policy Research Institute report says. That year, state and local governments spent $34 billion.And this group has NO credibility on this issue. To cite that we've had to "cut vital programs and lay off teachers" without any facts to support the statement is typical. To then call the taxpayers idiots - "not a single person in their right mind" - is just plain offensive! Why cite laying off teachers rather than get serious and cut costs at the top (administration) and work toward fiscal responsibility, rather than viewing themselves as 'the benevolent employer' willing to give all a job and a fair wage.
In addition to Wisconsin governments' outspending the national average by 7.7%, personal income in the state lagged the national average by 2.8% in 2002.
Stan Johnson, president of the state's largest teachers union, the Wisconsin Education Association Council, said that spending controls clamped on public schools in 1993 have forced school districts to cut vital programs and lay off teachers. Therefore, "not a single person in their right mind" would want new limits on public schools, he said.Finally, the last paragraph says it all. Just as the recommendations by the commission in the mid-80's was ignored, this too will never see the light of day.
But in a Capitol in which officials are elected every two or four years, "the idea of long-range planning is very hard to sell," he said.
Monday, September 20, 2004
In-sourcing: The flip-side
As with most things, there are two sides to the outsourcing issue. And, as with most things, it's often difficult to find the 'other side' - especially when one political party is using the negative side as a campaign issue. Here's a press release from Rep. James Sensenbrenner with facts and figures to support the positive side of in-sourcing (or global competition).
If something sounds too good to be true, it usually is. The same can be said if it sounds too bad.
If something sounds too good to be true, it usually is. The same can be said if it sounds too bad.
American people have to view John with respect...
this from the Boston Globe:
Do the American people respect, much less relate to, candidates that seclude themselves at their "wife's home"?
"Kerry will appear on the 'Late Show with David Letterman' tonight and 'Live with Regis and Kelly' tomorrow, and this weekend taped a segment of the daytime show 'Dr. Phil' that will air early next month. But the greatest opportunity to up the likability quotient will probably come in the debates, advisers said. Kerry plans to seclude himself with aides next weekend at his wife's home near Pittsburgh to prepare for the first debate, tentatively scheduled in Miami on Sept. 30.
'We have to reach a comfort level with the American people -- they have to view John with a certain level of respect, an appreciation of his own strength, values, and character, a feeling that they can trust this person for the next four years,' said the senior adviser in Kerry's inner circle. 'I don't know how you do all that. It's an evolving process. But we need to do it quickly.'"
Do the American people respect, much less relate to, candidates that seclude themselves at their "wife's home"?
Apparently, it's over. No need to hold the election.
OpinionJournal - John Fund on the Trail:
"Even if Democrats have nothing to do with kamikaze attacks on Mr. Bush, they could still be hurt by them. Mr. Caddell says that if the documents CBS News used to claim Mr. Bush shirked his duty in the Texas Air National Guard are proved to be forgeries, 'it would be the end of the race.' He explained to Fox News that Democrats 'have gotten themselves so involved in this issue that if they're not authentic, they're going to be blamed for it. It's incredible to me that they've gotten in this. I'm trying to save my party, you know, by telling the truth.' "
More UN trouncing @ WSJ.com
Feingold chooses his joint appearances carefully...
GWB: Nine Innings
A short excerpt from the HBO special: Nine Innings; game 3 of the 2001 World Series in Yankee Stadium.
Want to lose an election by a wide margin? Here's how
Mike Nichols normally gets right to the point.
And this is relevant, how?
The NYT, and a few other media outlets won't let it go. For the life of me, I don't see how this has any impact on who the voters should choose to lead this country today. Last time I checked, GWB was not running for President based on his National Guard experience.
Memos a FAKE!: CBS Reports
Dan Rather and CBS news have uncovered startling information which they unveil in a report in the NYT. This should put to rest any concerns about big media bias. These guys are good.
Sunday, September 19, 2004
Football Fans For Truth
This is all you need to know: Football Fans For Truth, heh.
Need more evidence? Caught on video!
* blatantly lifted from Instapundit, he's the best!
Need more evidence? Caught on video!
* blatantly lifted from Instapundit, he's the best!
Saturday, September 18, 2004
Plumbing
Another beautiful, cool, calm, September, Saturday night in Wisconsin. Too bad I spent most of it under the sink disassembling the garbage disposal to get the nickel my son thought should be 'disposed', out. There is a bright side to this project: I've been meaning to replace the mounting gasket for some time now. Tonight I could.
Thank God the Badgers won (barely), or I would not have been in the mood to deal with the disposal. As I was raised to believe - everything happens for a reason.
Thank God the Badgers won (barely), or I would not have been in the mood to deal with the disposal. As I was raised to believe - everything happens for a reason.
Schools fall short of progress standards: The message is missed on some
An article in today's Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports that 123 schools fall short of progress standards. On the surface, this get many reactions (included in the story) from "criticism of the "No Child Left Behind Law" as being impractical to appreciation for how the law can spur schools to identify areas where they could improve." My personal reactions falls in line with the latter statement.
The law, and the resulting reports that shed light on the subject of performance, allows us to focus our attention and resources where the need is. This is echoed by a number of officials cited in the story. I don't view the law or it's standards as punitive - as some have claimed. Those who "lambasted the federal law for its "unrealistic standards that can't be achieved,"..." should reconsider their career. I know I wouldn't want my child in an environment that says "can't".
The defense this individual quoted above cites: special education. This is a common theme throughout the story and is raised a primary reason/excuse for not achieving standards. The question I have, that isn't asked in articles like this, is why do we see ever increasing numbers of students in special education programs? Being the skeptic I am, I believe a contributing factor to this phenomenon is money. Not exactly an Einstein moment since most things relate to money - especially in schools. If a child is enrolled in the special education curriculum of the school or school district, the school/district gets more money. The more students in SE, the more money.
Don't get me wrong. I am not in favor of slashing public school budgets nor am I pointing blame at individuals - especially the hard working teachers who operate in the current system. I do believe, however, that taxpayers deserve to get value for their money and a return on investment. For schools, that means graduates who can read, write and perform basic math.
The law, and the resulting reports that shed light on the subject of performance, allows us to focus our attention and resources where the need is. This is echoed by a number of officials cited in the story. I don't view the law or it's standards as punitive - as some have claimed. Those who "lambasted the federal law for its "unrealistic standards that can't be achieved,"..." should reconsider their career. I know I wouldn't want my child in an environment that says "can't".
The defense this individual quoted above cites: special education. This is a common theme throughout the story and is raised a primary reason/excuse for not achieving standards. The question I have, that isn't asked in articles like this, is why do we see ever increasing numbers of students in special education programs? Being the skeptic I am, I believe a contributing factor to this phenomenon is money. Not exactly an Einstein moment since most things relate to money - especially in schools. If a child is enrolled in the special education curriculum of the school or school district, the school/district gets more money. The more students in SE, the more money.
Don't get me wrong. I am not in favor of slashing public school budgets nor am I pointing blame at individuals - especially the hard working teachers who operate in the current system. I do believe, however, that taxpayers deserve to get value for their money and a return on investment. For schools, that means graduates who can read, write and perform basic math.
Florida Supreme Court Gives Nader a Spot on State Ballot
I am far from an expert in election law, but common sense tells me that open elections in a democracy means access to ballots for candidates who wish to run for office. The electorate has a responsibility of their own: to study the candidates positions and select the candidate that they believe will be the best person for the position they are hoping to be elected to.
UPDATE: Lawyers line up
"Under Florida law, a minor party candidate for president could get on the ballot either by obtaining more than 90,000 signatures or by receiving the nomination of a 'national party,' a term that was not clearly defined. Mr. Nader received the Reform Party's endorsement at a convention in August, and based on that, sought the ballot line in Florida."Apparently, Mr. Nader fulfilled his responsibility as a candidate, to the extent of the law in Florida: however, all laws are open to interpretation:
I can only imagine, based on this final quote, that many in the Democratic Party, would apply the same reasoning to President Bush if they could. I'm sure they've already filed suit just in case.But Democrats challenged his candidacy, asserting that the Reform Party was no longer national in scope, was virtually penniless and that its convention had been staged with hired students purely to qualify for the Florida ballot. Designating it a "national party" would open the door to any group to have a presidential ballot line, they said.
"Voters need to be able to rely on the law to protect them against sham candidates and sham parties," said Elizabeth Holtzman, a former Democratic congresswoman and co-founder of the Ballot Project, a group that has been challenging Mr. Nader's candidacy in several states.
UPDATE: Lawyers line up
Friday, September 17, 2004
ABCNEWS.com : WHO: 6,000-10,000 Die Monthly in Darfur
WHO: 6,000-10,000 Die Monthly in Darfur . Why should we take the UN serious in ANY matter when they can't even provide the most basic of their responsibilities? This group has had nuanced debates for months upon months - without any results or actions. Meanwhile, the people of Sudan continue to die, as they did in Rwanda in the early 90's. I'm sure the refuges are sitting in their camps at nights sleeping soundly with the knowledge that the UN is deliberating their fate.
Living in a small town.
There are many advantages to living in a small town (Port Washington, pop.10,467 + the new neighbors). One is sitting on the deck on a cool September evening and being able to hear the high school football game as clear as a bell. Our house is probably less than a half mile from the athletic field, but I'm pretty sure anyone in town can hear it from their deck or porch.
Not only that, but the game can be heard over the deafening sound of the neighborhood kids - including ours (the loud ones) - playing a spontaneous game of "capture the flag". Wouldn't trade it for anything...
Wait a minute - that's the Notre Dame fight song! We live in Wisconsin! On Wisconsin!!!
Nothing's perfect I guess.
Not only that, but the game can be heard over the deafening sound of the neighborhood kids - including ours (the loud ones) - playing a spontaneous game of "capture the flag". Wouldn't trade it for anything...
Wait a minute - that's the Notre Dame fight song! We live in Wisconsin! On Wisconsin!!!
Nothing's perfect I guess.
President Bush in Racine: Sept 24th
Just got a call from the campaign office in SE Wisconsin asking if we'd be interested in tickets to see President Bush in Racine next Friday. Unfortunately, I didn't get a call from the Kerry folks when he was in Madison and Milwaukee this week. Hmmm?
That's gonna leave a mark!
Maybe the Senator should have a doctor look at that thing on his head? Thanks to The Corner for the link. Panzer defeat - as seen through the eyes of an unbiased media
Of course this is an accurate portrayal of the choice that voters in the 20th Senate District made - especially since we are all "right-wing extremist(s)" and "nut(s)"...
Comment worth posting:
At 9/20/2004 11:50:22 AM, cynicalb said...
Panzer lost simply because she is an idiot. She is arrogant, condescending, and felt it was her God-given right to serve in the Senate - just look at her campaign materials that promoted how long her family had represented the 20th. She completely disregarded the interests of the majority of her constituents - some of the most (proudly) conservative people in WI if not the whole country. She cared more about power and prestige than about the real reason why she is there - to represent the folks that sent her there. Although unlikely, I hope this wakes up the rest of the dimwits that serve in both the Senate and Assembly so that they stop wasting our time and money. Yea, right, that'll happen.And although Grothman gave her a butt kicking not seen since the days of the Ramblin' Wreck of Georgia Tech beat the snot out of tiny Cumberland College he should realize that if he, too falters and forgets how he got there, we will dismiss him, too.
Comment worth posting:
At 9/20/2004 11:50:22 AM, cynicalb said...
Panzer lost simply because she is an idiot. She is arrogant, condescending, and felt it was her God-given right to serve in the Senate - just look at her campaign materials that promoted how long her family had represented the 20th. She completely disregarded the interests of the majority of her constituents - some of the most (proudly) conservative people in WI if not the whole country. She cared more about power and prestige than about the real reason why she is there - to represent the folks that sent her there. Although unlikely, I hope this wakes up the rest of the dimwits that serve in both the Senate and Assembly so that they stop wasting our time and money. Yea, right, that'll happen.And although Grothman gave her a butt kicking not seen since the days of the Ramblin' Wreck of Georgia Tech beat the snot out of tiny Cumberland College he should realize that if he, too falters and forgets how he got there, we will dismiss him, too.
The gauntlet has been laid...
Tim Michels responds to "Clean Campaign Pledge" challenge by Feingold:
“Senator Feingold I’m a businessman, not a career politician. I know the easiest way to get things done is through direct communication; not through faxes or press releases.
WisPolitics.com
An earlier post [WI Senate race: The "Set-Up"] demonstrates how the groundwork for the Feingold strategy is in place: make a statement that impugns your adversary, without specifically calling them what you want the public to believe.
“Senator Feingold I’m a businessman, not a career politician. I know the easiest way to get things done is through direct communication; not through faxes or press releases.
WisPolitics.com
An earlier post [WI Senate race: The "Set-Up"] demonstrates how the groundwork for the Feingold strategy is in place: make a statement that impugns your adversary, without specifically calling them what you want the public to believe.
The Passion: a conversion
We haven't seen the Passion - yet. But after reading this re-review, I think we'll break open the DVD tonight.
Union starts Web site to identify firms it says is sending jobs overseas
Union starts 'tracking' lost, outsourced jobs as if we have never 'outsourced' jobs in this country prior to the Bush Administration. And by the way, are they going to track the number of 'in-sourced' jobs as well?
Please see my prior link, by Thomas Sowell re: the realities of outsourcing.
Please see my prior link, by Thomas Sowell re: the realities of outsourcing.
Isn't it a little late for this?
Quote from Hamilton Jordan, director of Jimmy Carter's presidential campaigns, in today's WSJ:
"What advice would he give to the Democratic candidate? 'He needs to find a strong and simple message and make it his own focused on the deteriorating situation in Iraq and on the U.S. economy. John Kerry needs to look deep inside himself, decide what he believes and thinks, cast caution to the wind and start saying it with some passion and emotion.'" WSJ.com - Campaign Journal
"What advice would he give to the Democratic candidate? 'He needs to find a strong and simple message and make it his own focused on the deteriorating situation in Iraq and on the U.S. economy. John Kerry needs to look deep inside himself, decide what he believes and thinks, cast caution to the wind and start saying it with some passion and emotion.'" WSJ.com - Campaign Journal
More city teachers than public pick private schools
Teachers make the same choices we make, only they have more insight - and more money than some who don't have a choice?:
"The new paper, issued by the Washington-based Thomas B. Fordham Foundation, says that 29.4% of public schoolteachers who live in the city said their children attend private schools, compared with 23.4% of all families in the city. The data come from answers given by people who were selected to answer the 'long form' of the 2000 census questionnaire.
Nationwide, the authors said, 21.5% of urban public schoolteachers send their children to private schools, compared with 17.5% of urban families in general."
WI: Our employers must not read the campaign releases
Thank goodness the employers in Wisconsin don't put much faith in the campaign rhetoric of a certain candidate. Otherwise, they may throw their hands up in desperation and wait for the savior to be elected before they actually get on with the business of doing business. Thank you Wisconsin business men and woman, for competing!
JS Online: Employment in state continues to rise: "The unemployment rate dipped to 4.4%, unadjusted for seasonal fluctuations. That's down from 4.6% in July and 5.3% in August 2003. It was the lowest rate for August since 4.1% in 2001." {anyone remember what happened the following month?}
For the record, anything promised by Republicans - other than tax relief and tax simplification - to create jobs, should be ignored as well - with the possible exception of regulation reform.
JS Online: Employment in state continues to rise: "The unemployment rate dipped to 4.4%, unadjusted for seasonal fluctuations. That's down from 4.6% in July and 5.3% in August 2003. It was the lowest rate for August since 4.1% in 2001." {anyone remember what happened the following month?}
For the record, anything promised by Republicans - other than tax relief and tax simplification - to create jobs, should be ignored as well - with the possible exception of regulation reform.
Taxing Global Profits - great idea, not!
So, corporations are looking for ways to be more profitable? And what is the problem with this, exactly?
The study concludes that the more that American companies can use foreign subsidiaries to lower taxes, the greater their incentive to invest and employ staff abroad. That means a steady, significant erosion of this nation's corporate tax base, amounting, the study says, to "many billions of dollars."
Why is it that other countries can survive without confiscating large sums of money from corporations that employ and PAY citizens in their country? Could there be other reasons that US corporations are looking for higher profitability? Maybe the other costs of doing business in the US are becoming a burden as well: health costs, regulations, lawsuits, etc?
What is unacceptable is for antitax forces and their allies in Congress to allow the current system to fail so they have an excuse to "reform" it, often in ways that are as much ideological as they are economic - by, for instance, eliminating taxes on profits, thus shifting the burden to wage earners. Genuine reform would start with ending abusive tax shelters abroad.
The last statement says it all. How dare these corporations try to remain competitive in a global economy at the expense of tax revenues in the US that feed the ineffective bureaucracies that have zero impact on our economy. It's a wonder we have any corporations in the US any more. Perhaps we should look at reducing the tax burden, rather than accepting that we would have to shift the burden to wage earners?
The New York Times > Opinion > Taxing Global Profits
The study concludes that the more that American companies can use foreign subsidiaries to lower taxes, the greater their incentive to invest and employ staff abroad. That means a steady, significant erosion of this nation's corporate tax base, amounting, the study says, to "many billions of dollars."
Why is it that other countries can survive without confiscating large sums of money from corporations that employ and PAY citizens in their country? Could there be other reasons that US corporations are looking for higher profitability? Maybe the other costs of doing business in the US are becoming a burden as well: health costs, regulations, lawsuits, etc?
Global capital presents a big challenge for tax collectors, and there are no easy answers. After careful study and debate, it might make a lot of sense to enact some other type of tax, like a European-style value-added tax, that could more efficiently capture the profits that currently escape the United States tax system.
What is unacceptable is for antitax forces and their allies in Congress to allow the current system to fail so they have an excuse to "reform" it, often in ways that are as much ideological as they are economic - by, for instance, eliminating taxes on profits, thus shifting the burden to wage earners. Genuine reform would start with ending abusive tax shelters abroad.
The last statement says it all. How dare these corporations try to remain competitive in a global economy at the expense of tax revenues in the US that feed the ineffective bureaucracies that have zero impact on our economy. It's a wonder we have any corporations in the US any more. Perhaps we should look at reducing the tax burden, rather than accepting that we would have to shift the burden to wage earners?
The New York Times > Opinion > Taxing Global Profits
Thursday, September 16, 2004
The Pathetic Truth as seen by a democrat
One of the problems with this thesis: the issues that Democrats believe they can win on because "majorities of the public tend to agree with" them, are issues that NO ONE disagrees with. Who doesn't want clean water; clean air; better jobs; etc? The problem is, none of those are things that require government to hold our hands for them to occur.
"The problem begins with the fact that majorities of the public tend to agree with Democrats on the issues. This isn't universally true, of course, but it's true with regard to more issues (perhaps many more issues) than not. On health care, the environment, investment, education, just about everything except national defense, majorities lean toward the Democratic position.
This sounds like a good thing. But in fact, it's an incredibly bad thing, because it leads Democrats to believe that they can win on the issues. So a Democratic presidential candidate's pollster goes out into the field and comes back with data proving that 54 of percent of the people are with us on this issue, and 61 percent of them are with us on that one, and so on. And so the pollster tells the candidate, 'Just talk about the issues, and everything will be ducky.' "
CBS News The Pathetic Truth September 14, 2004�12:07:59:
"The problem begins with the fact that majorities of the public tend to agree with Democrats on the issues. This isn't universally true, of course, but it's true with regard to more issues (perhaps many more issues) than not. On health care, the environment, investment, education, just about everything except national defense, majorities lean toward the Democratic position.
This sounds like a good thing. But in fact, it's an incredibly bad thing, because it leads Democrats to believe that they can win on the issues. So a Democratic presidential candidate's pollster goes out into the field and comes back with data proving that 54 of percent of the people are with us on this issue, and 61 percent of them are with us on that one, and so on. And so the pollster tells the candidate, 'Just talk about the issues, and everything will be ducky.' "
CBS News The Pathetic Truth September 14, 2004�12:07:59:
Go ahead, jump in the water...
My first two posts and they both have an economist link - that will change. This article, however, helped prompt me to set up this blog. I know that when I make a mistake - and am lucky enough to have someone read it - there will be plenty of people out there in the blogosphere to correct me. And I will appreciate every one of them!
"This traditional criticism of the internet has now been aimed at the blogosphere and is embodied by big journalists like Jonathan Klein who, while defending the CBS story to The Weekly Standard remarked, 'You couldn't have a starker contrast between the multiple layers of check and balances [at '60 Minutes'] and a guy sitting in his living room in his pajamas writing.' Klein misses the point that it's not whether you can trust some guy in his pajamas, but whether you can trust a spontaneous system of thousands of guys in their pajamas trading information and imparting small, sometimes deceivingly insignificant, bits of information. "
TCS: Tech Central Station - Hayek Smiled: Why Blogging Works:
"This traditional criticism of the internet has now been aimed at the blogosphere and is embodied by big journalists like Jonathan Klein who, while defending the CBS story to The Weekly Standard remarked, 'You couldn't have a starker contrast between the multiple layers of check and balances [at '60 Minutes'] and a guy sitting in his living room in his pajamas writing.' Klein misses the point that it's not whether you can trust some guy in his pajamas, but whether you can trust a spontaneous system of thousands of guys in their pajamas trading information and imparting small, sometimes deceivingly insignificant, bits of information. "
TCS: Tech Central Station - Hayek Smiled: Why Blogging Works:
Outsourcing realities
While I don't list books in my profile, you'll find that I link to Thomas Sowell quite often. One of my favorite books by him is "A Conflict of Visions". Sowell has a very realistic view of economics that I believe in. Here's a passage from a recent article that makes sense, but read the whole thing:
Job protection laws add to the cost of labor. These laws may save the jobs of those who already have jobs but the passage of time brings new young job applicants into the labor market and the high cost of labor means that employers have incentives to get their work done by substituting machines for workers or by shifting to producing products that require less labor.
Thomas Sowell: Jobs and snow jobs
The left often accuse the right of using fear as a tactic to scare people into voting for Bush, but they themselves use fear in much the same way by scaring people with economic falsehoods - jobs is just one.
One of my Principles is believing in the Law of Unintended Consequences. Laws have consequences that aren't always those which were intended - I'm wary of politicians promising to 'fix' all problems with a new law.
Many policies designed to "save jobs" have effects that are the opposite of their intentions. Germany has some of the strongest job protection laws in the world -- and double-digit unemployment rates are common in Germany.
Job protection laws add to the cost of labor. These laws may save the jobs of those who already have jobs but the passage of time brings new young job applicants into the labor market and the high cost of labor means that employers have incentives to get their work done by substituting machines for workers or by shifting to producing products that require less labor.
Thomas Sowell: Jobs and snow jobs
The left often accuse the right of using fear as a tactic to scare people into voting for Bush, but they themselves use fear in much the same way by scaring people with economic falsehoods - jobs is just one.
One of my Principles is believing in the Law of Unintended Consequences. Laws have consequences that aren't always those which were intended - I'm wary of politicians promising to 'fix' all problems with a new law.
Why blog?
Life is too short to sit back and not participate. Blogging is a new way to reach new people and new places. To share old thoughts and new ideas. I'm thankful that I live in a time and place where I have access to an outlet to share my thoughts and also to read and learn from others, with different opinions and experiences.
I hope that others who come across this blog take the time to add their thoughts and opinions.
Hopefully I will be able to post interesting thoughts that keep you coming back. I don't promise any single theme, however, the posts will address current events that impact common people.
I think, as the posts grow, people will be able to make their own judgement about my principles - no need to define them now.
I hope that others who come across this blog take the time to add their thoughts and opinions.
Hopefully I will be able to post interesting thoughts that keep you coming back. I don't promise any single theme, however, the posts will address current events that impact common people.
I think, as the posts grow, people will be able to make their own judgement about my principles - no need to define them now.
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