Let The Word Go Forth...

Stars and Stripes Forever

2006-04-06T22:06:00.000-04:00

Law and order are not the only casualties in this immigration debate. American flags have been taken down and replaced with Mexican ones, and students have been banned from wearing red, white, and blue.

But on this little corner of the web, the flag still flies high. Michelle Malkin has a great collection of favorite flag photos. And the New York Post has a great editorial, written with that classic New York attitude.

And let's not forget where else Old Glory has flown...

On the frontiers of discovery...

On the frontlines of history...

Where lesser men would dare not go...

Final Four!

2006-03-29T23:16:00.000-05:00

Good luck to the George Mason Patriots!!

Michigan Mania

2006-03-29T23:03:00.000-05:00

I'll be in Michigan until Sunday. Here's an interesting new look at the changing political dynamics of this all-important electoral state after years of liberal rule in the Statehouse.

Mark Noonan at GOPBloggers says:
"There is no better advertisement for Republican government than a Democratic government..."

True.

Immigration Outrage

2006-03-29T22:48:00.000-05:00

What's the immigration debate all about?
The students of Montebello High School in California - a public, American tax-payer funded school - showed their appreciation during protests this week.

So, whose rights matter more? Those of legal, working, voting, American citizens - or those of illegals ungrateful for their freedoms and unwilling to assimilate to this nation?

(H/T Michelle Malkin)

The Mettle of a Marine

2006-03-29T07:50:00.000-05:00

Read it. Our military men aren't just brave on the battlefield - their pride and dedication define their lives.

"I AM A MARINE — a lieutenant colonel. I know about war. I have studied it for more than 20 years. I have been deployed overseas six times. Three times since 9/11. Recently, I learned all about another part of war. I was badly wounded during a mortar attack in Iraq in October 2004... And the goofy part? Marines do not whine. Therefore, I shall not whine. I agree with it all. I think it is good for us wounded Marines to whip it — the injury, the sadness and confusion... We can do it. Deal with it. But it is a heck of a lot easier when you are with a teammate. That, my friends, is why the Marine Corps built the Wounded Warrior barracks at Camp Lejeune, N.C. You can see other wounded warriors, talk about your situation. With someone who gets it. Who knows why you are pissed. You aren't whining, complaining. You are pissed! I get that. So am I..."

Remembering Reagan's Revolutionaries

2006-03-28T20:07:00.000-05:00

Two giants of the conservative movement passed away today.

Caspar Weinberger, former Secretary of Defense under President Reagan, died at the age of 88.

Lyn Nofziger, long-time Reagan spokesman and campaign guru, died at the age of 81.

Thanks for guarding the gates of the city on the hill.

TGIF!

2006-03-24T22:09:00.000-05:00

It's the weekend, so we're taking a break from the serious news. Enjoy!!

It's cherry blossom time here in D.C.!! Probably the most beautiful time to be in the city, next to the 4th of July.

Of Mice and Men

2006-03-21T18:54:00.000-05:00

The Washington Post had an interesting (and misguided) piece of commentary today, attacking President Bush and the White House for being too "manly." The writer, Ruth Marcus, even went so far as to say, "Manliness does exist. The problem is that it's overemployed -- nowhere more than in this administration."

Really? Nowhere in the world is the supposed problem of manliness more prevalent than in this administration?

Leaving aside the toxically feminist view than men, and all things manly, are inherently evil, let's think about Ruth's statement. We'll even use her negative connotations of masculinity.

I would say a country whose males assert their power over women by keeping females bound behind veils of black is too "manly." I would say a group whose males train for war against innocents and violence against all is too "manly." I would say an ideology which teaches males acts of terror as the only form of international influence is too "manly."

And I would say that America needs her men - real men, who are protectors and warriors - to stand up to these threats against mankind and exert the true forces of independence and justice.

For too long, the United States sent boys to do a man's job. Ruth says, "The undisputed manliness of the Bush White House stands in contrast to its predecessors and wannabes." Well, thank God for that. The president's wannabes (Gore and Kerry) couldn't figure out who they were, let alone where they wanted to lead the country. And the president's predecessors (Bush senior and Clinton) were so defined by the womanly qualities of "restraint, introspection, a desire for consensus, maybe even a touch of self-doubt," that they left the nation vulnerable to, and victims of, terrorist attacks.

Regardless of whether we are at war or peace, strong men - yes, men, as in natural leaders - must guide this nation with conviction and resolve.

We need a few more cowboys, a few more hunters, a few more unapologetically manly men. We need to stop telling boys be quite, be nice, be gentle, be feminine, and start teaching them how to be both strong men and gentlemen.

We need men willing to take up the fight, stare down the threat, and protect the lives and legacy of the American people.

"Good people sleep peaceabliy in their beds at night only because rough men stand ready to do violence on their behalf." ~ George Orwell

Coming Soon...

2006-03-19T21:13:00.000-05:00

'05's Big Five Inspirational Leaders

2005-12-31T06:36:00.000-05:00

Honorable Mention: Condoleezza Rice
For taking the reigns as Secretary of State, for representing the strength of the United States to the world, and for successfully confronting the most difficult aspects of international diplomacy with grace and honor.

#5. The Iraqi People
For claiming two historic elections as their own, for changing the outlook of a newly-freed Iraq, and for maintianing optimism during the troubled days of a young democracy.

#4. President George W. Bush
For beginning his second term with ambition and hope, for appointing a U.N. ambassador who can actually change the U.N., for helping strengthen the economy, for placing a true judicial scholar as Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, and continuing his commitment to protecting the nation and persecuting terrorists abroad and at home.

#3. The American Troops
For acting as both fighters and diplomats, for bringing freedom to the oppressed, for representing the best the United States has to offer, for soldiering on in the face of criticism at home and attacks in the field, and for continuing the great traditions of the American military

#2. Tony Blair
For leading the British people through two terrorist attacks with resolve and mettle, for standing up to misguided environmental policies, and for remaining a steadfast ally in the War on Terror.

#1. Pope John Paul II
For committing his life to the path of the Lord, for fighting and surviving the Nazi regime, for helping end the scourge of Communism in the Soviet Union, for reaching out to the youth of a centuries-old institution, for leading the Catholic Church in good times and bad, for being an example of true forgiveness and humility, for extending the hand of understanding to other religions and for bringing the good news of God to the farthest corners of the globe.

'05's Big Five Crazy Liberal Quotes

2005-12-29T18:18:00.000-05:00

#5. "I's Simple Sambo and I's running for the Big House." ~ Liberal Blogger Steve Gilliard, in the caption of a doctored photo of Maryland Lt. Governor Michael Steele

#4. "You get America out of Iraq and Israel out of Palestine and you'll stop the terrorism."
AND
“George Bush needs to stop talking, admit the mistakes of his all around failed administration, pull our troops out of occupied New Orleans and Iraq, and excuse his self from power.” ~ The lucid musings of Cindy Sheehan

#3. "I heard from a very reliable source who saw a 25 foot deep crater under the levee breach. It may have been blown up to destroy the black part of town and keep the white part dry." ~ Louis Farrakhan, on the Katrina Conspiracy

#2. "The idea that we're going to win this war is an idea that unfortunately is just plain wrong." ~ Democratic National Chairman Howard Dean

#1. "If I read this to you and did not tell you that it was an FBI agent describing what Americans had done to prisoners in their control, you would most certainly believe this must have been done by Nazis, Soviets in their gulags, or some mad regime -- Pol Pot or others -- that had no concern for human beings. Sadly, that is not the case. This was the action of Americans in the treatment of their prisoners." ~ Senator Dick Durbin, describing the American military. Because he supports the troops, but not the war.

Have any other suggestions? Let me know!

Year in Review

2005-12-29T12:25:00.000-05:00

For the next few days we'll be doing the year in review. Peggy Noonan's "'05's Big Five" is the best introduction to the list-fest. She covers everything from the weather to great leaders, and shares predictions for the year ahead.

Coming tonight... '05's Big Five Crazy Liberal Quotes...
Coming tomorrow...'05's Big Five International Leaders...

Merry Christmas!

2005-12-22T08:25:00.000-05:00

Wishing you and your family a Merry Christmas, and a blessed holiday season! I'll be back on the 27th.

"Now in those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus, that a census be taken of all the inhabited earth. This was the first census taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria. And everyone was on his way to register for the census, each to his own city.
Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the city of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family of David, in order to register along with Mary, who was engaged to him, and was with child.

While they were there, the days were completed for her to give birth.
And she gave birth to her firstborn son; and she wrapped Him in cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.

In the same region there were some shepherds staying out in the fields and keeping watch over their flock by night. And an angel of the Lord suddenly stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them; and they were terribly frightened.

But the angel said to them, 'Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people; for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.'
And suddenly there appeared with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, 'Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased.'

When the angels had gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds began saying to one another, 'Let us go straight to Bethlehem then, and see this thing that has happened which the Lord has made known to us.'
So they came in a hurry and found their way to Mary and Joseph, and the baby as He lay in the manger.
When they had seen this, they made known the statement which had been told them about this Child.
And all who heard it wondered at the things which were told them by the shepherds.

But Mary treasured all these things, pondering them in her heart.
The shepherds went back, glorifying and praising God for all that they had heard and seen, just as had been told them." ~Luke 2:1-20

New York, New York

2005-12-21T08:39:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas, Yankees fans! Johnny Damon - the long-haired, former Red Sox heartthrob - just signed a four-year contract with the Bombers worth $52 million. Not only does this end the search for a center fielder, but it adds more power to the top of the line-up.

Not everyone is thrilled with this new addition. But given the history and The Rivalry, this trade is about more than just payments and stats.

And, while we're talking about NYC...the transit union strike has entered the second day, forcing millions of New Yorkers to hoof it from the Bronx to the Brooklyn Bridge.

Mayor Mike might want to follow the lead of a real Republican when it comes to illegal strikes.
"It was in recognition of this that the Congress passed a law forbidding strikes by government employees against the public safety... It is for this reason that I must tell those who fail to report for duty this morning they are in violation of the law, and if they do not report for work within 48 hours, they have forfeited their jobs and will be terminated." ~President Reagan, addressing the air-traffic controllers strike.

Intelligent Design

2005-12-20T10:47:00.000-05:00

A Pennsylvania judge has just ruled that Intelligent Design cannot be taught in PA public schools. Now, I am neither a scientist nor a lawyer, so I'll just let you read the story and decide.

So we're testing theories today. And we're saying, theoretically, that the earth and all living beings populating the earth are mere coincidences. And we're saying that there is no theoretical "design" associated with the universe.

Just one more point... men make theories. Men make tests for those theories. Men make decisions based on those theories, and men rule in courts of law which theories are the most acceptable.

Then, who made this?

And this?
And this?
I have my theory... what's yours?

"In the designs of providence, there are no mere coincidences." ~Pope John Paul II

Thank you, Mr. President!

2005-12-19T11:33:00.000-05:00

President Bush just gave a great press conference where he set the record straight with the press, called-out Senators on their destruction of the Patriot Act, and fired a shot at Hillary for her waffling on the war. Here are some of the highlights:

HAUGHTY REPORTER NUMBER 1: So many questions, so little time.
BUSH: Well, keep your questions short, then.

HAUGHTY REPORTER NUMBER 2: I wonder if you can tell us today, sir, what, if any, limits you believe there are or should be on the powers of a president during wartime. And if the global war on terror is going to last for decades, as has been forecast, does that mean that we're going to see, therefore, a more or less permanent expansion of the unchecked power of the executive in American society?
BUSH: First of all, I disagree with your assertion of unchecked power.
QUESTION: (OFF-MIKE)
BUSH: Hold on for a second, please.
There is the check of people being sworn to uphold the law, for starters. There is oversight. We're talking to Congress all the time. And on this program, to suggest there's unchecked power is not listening to what I'm telling you. I'm telling you, we have briefed the United States Congress on this program a dozen times...To say "unchecked power" basically is ascribing some kind of dictatorial position to the president, which I strongly reject.

QUESTION: Mr. President, you said last night that there are only two options in Iraq, withdrawal or victory. And you asked Americans, especially opponents of the war, to reject partisan politics.
Do you really expect congressional Democrats to end partisan warfare and embrace your war strategy? And what can you do about that, to make that happen?
BUSH: Actually, I said that victory in Iraq is much larger than a person, a president or a political party.
And I've had some good visits with Senate and House Democrats about the way forward... Let me say something about the Patriot Act, if you don't mind.
It is inexcusable for the United States Senate to let this Patriot Act expire.
You know, there's an interesting debate in Washington -- and you're part of it -- that says: Well, they didn't connect the dots prior to September the 11th -- "they" being not only my administration but previous administrations.
I understand that debate. I'm not being critical of you bringing this issue up and discussing it. But there was also -- you might remember, if you take a step back, people were pretty adamant about hauling people up to testify and wondering how come the dots weren't connected.
Well, the Patriot Act helps us connect the dots. And now the United States Senate is going to let this bill expire -- not the Senate; a minority of senators.
And I want senators from New York or Los Angeles or Las Vegas to go home and explain why these cities are safer.
It is inexcusable to say, on the one hand, connect the dots and not give us a chance to do so.

QUESTION: Democrats have said that you have acted beyond the law and that you've even broken the law. There are some Republicans who are calling for congressional hearings and even an independent investigation.
Are you willing to go before members of Congress and explain this eavesdropping program? And do you support an independent investigation?
BUSH: We have been talking to members of the United States Congress. We have met with them over 12 times... This is a war. Of course we consult with Congress and have been consulting with Congress. And we'll continue to do so.

One Week...

2005-12-18T09:32:00.000-05:00

The Angel Gabriel was sent from God to a town of Galilee called Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man named Joseph,of the house of David, and the virgin’s name was Mary. And coming to her, he said,“Hail, full of grace! The Lord is with you.” But she was greatly troubled at what was said and pondered what sort of greeting this might be. Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God.
“Behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son,and you shall name him Jesus. He will be great and will be called Son of the Most High, and the Lord God will give him the throne of David his father, and he will rule over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.” ~ Luke 1:26-38

Mightier Than the Pen

2005-12-15T10:30:00.000-05:00

Matt Pottinger was 31 years old, and a successful correspondent for the Wall Street Journal in China. Then, a year ago, he chose to completely reinvent his life... he chose to join the Marine Corps.

His whole article outlines the evolution from mere journalist to trained Marine. Here is one of the reasons Pottinger put down the pen, and picked up the sword:
A year ago, I was at my sister's house using her husband's laptop when I came across a video of an American in Iraq being beheaded by Abu Musab al-Zarqawi. The details are beyond description here; let's just say it was obscene. At first I admit I felt a touch of the terror they wanted me to feel, but then I felt the anger they didn't. We often talk about how our policies are radicalizing young men in the Middle East to become our enemies, but rarely do we talk about how their actions are radicalizing us. In a brief moment of revulsion, sitting there in that living room, I became their blowback.

He is scheduled to be commissioned a second lieutenant tomorrow, in Quantico, Va. Good luck, and God Bless!

Vikings vs. Iran

2005-12-14T10:51:00.000-05:00

Iran's President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad called the Holocaust a "fabricated a legend" today. You know this guy - he's the one who directed the assassination of Iranian Kurdish leader Abdorrahman Qassemlou, and was supposedly involved in planning an attempt on the life of Salman Rushdie (h/t GlobalSecurity.org). Not to mention his possible/probable actions in holding 52 Americans hostage in Tehran in 1979.

He has also called for Israel to be "wiped off the map" - all while developing "peaceful" nuclear technology. Yep, he sounds like a peaceful, kindhearted lamb...

Drudge has a good round-up of the world reaction, including comments from The White House and actions from Berlin.

But Sweden has taken the most aggressive stance against the newest lunatic running Iran. Living up to their Viking heritage, the Swedish parliament cut all bilateral talks with Iran. Here's what The Jerusalem Post reports:

"In recent years Iran has not merely settled for verbal attacks on Israel, Zionism and the Jewish people. It has been unrelenting in its efforts to achieve nuclear military capability and has funded, supplied and provided operational guidance to several major terrorist organizations," [Knesset Speaker Reuven] Rivlin wrote in the letter. "I strongly feel that due to the severity of this statement, a worldwide parliamentary reaction is called for."

The Speaker of the Swedish Parliament, Bjorn von Sydow, took immediate action based on Rivlin's letter.
"Although being restricted by constitutional limitations to act in matters of foreign policies, I can assure you that I will use every opportunity I have to condemn such statements... I have made sure that we cease all bilateral contacts with the Iranian parliament," Sydow wrote in response on November 14.

He ended the letter by asserting: "I am willing to defend the rights of Israel to exist as strongly as I defend the rights of my own country to exist."

'White Flag' Air War

2005-12-09T14:29:00.000-05:00

Drudge has posted this new video from the GOP. Brilliant - there's no need write a script when the very words of Dean, Pelosi and Kerry speak volumes.

"Never interrupt your enemy when he is making a mistake." ~ Napoleon Bonaparte

A Very 'Kerry' Christmas

2005-12-05T15:55:00.000-05:00

It seems Sen. Kerry is at it again, reliving his protesting days and calling our troops barbarians. Here's how he supported the troops, but not the war yesterday on 'Face the Nation':

Sen. KERRY: ...We all believe him when you say, 'Stay the course.' That's the president's policy, which hasn't been changing, which is a policy of failure. I don't agree with that. But I think what we need to do is recognize what we all agree on, which is you've got to begin to set benchmarks for accomplishment. You've got to begin to transfer authority to the Iraqis. And there is no reason, Bob, that young American soldiers need to be going into the homes of Iraqis in the dead of night, terrorizing kids and children, you know, women, breaking sort of the customs of the-of-the historical customs, religious customs. Whether you like it or not, Iraqis should be doing that.

John, Iraqis were doing that. Saddam Hussein - an Iraqi - did that. The same Saddam whose murderous reign of terror and hatred ended when his sorry butt was hauled out of a spider hole by young American soldiers. Those would be the same young American soldiers you now call terrorists, John.

Remember this guy?

If these statements weren't so irresponisble and unforgivable, I might just say that Kerry is the gift against America that just keeps on giving.

"Backdrop" to History

2005-11-30T12:45:00.000-05:00

Kerry criticized the president today for using the USNA midshipmen as a “backdrop.” Really John? Here are some “backdrops” Sen. Kerry must have forgotten.

One of Kerry's many "announcements" of a presidential run, this on in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina. He's using the USS Yorktown as a "backdrop"...

Kerry storming Boston Harbor before the Democratic National Convention... using his buddies as a "backdrop"...
"I salute you Sen. Kerry... no, wait, I salute me, Sen. Kerry... no, wait... I salute myself, Sen. Kerry... Did I mention I served in Vietnam?"

Granted these all came during a presidential run that was best forgotten, but still…

Presidential Power

2005-11-30T12:30:00.000-05:00

The President just gave a moving and inspiring speech to the midshipmen at the U.S. Naval Academy. In it, he reiterated the plan for victory and the commitment to freedom for all. He also told of a concrete plan, available online and in print, outlining the goals for making Iraq free.

It was Bush at his best. And it was the long-overdue update on the War Against Terror.

And 15 minutes later, John Kerry paraded himself in front of the cameras and criticized President Bush for not being specific. You want specific, John? Here’s specific:

We will help the Iraqi people build a new Iraq with a constitutional, representative government that respects civil rights and has security forces sufficient to maintain domestic order and keep Iraq from becoming a safe haven for terrorists. To achieve this end, we are pursuing an integrated strategy along three broad tracks, which together incorporate the efforts of the Iraqi government, the Coalition, cooperative countries in the region, the international community, and the United Nations.

The Political Track involves working to forge a broadly supported national compact for democratic governance by helping the Iraqi government: Isolate enemy elements from those who can be won over to the political process by countering false propaganda and demonstrating to all Iraqis that they have a stake in a democratic Iraq …

The Security Track involves carrying out a campaign to defeat the terrorists and neutralize the insurgency, developing Iraqi security forces, and helping the Iraqi government: …Hold areas freed from enemy influence by ensuring that they remain under the control of the Iraqi government with an adequate Iraqi security force presence…

The Economic Track involves setting the foundation for a sound and self-sustaining economy by helping the Iraqi government: …Build the capacity of Iraqi institutions to maintain infrastructure, rejoin the international economic community, and improve the general welfare of all Iraqis.

This Strategy is Integrated and its Elements are Mutually Reinforcing… For instance, as the political process has moved forward, terrorists have become more isolated, leading to more intelligence on security threats from Iraqi citizens, which has led to better security in previously violent areas, a more stable infrastructure, the prospect of economic progress , and expanding political participation .

What is your plan, John (and “bringing the troops home” doesn’t count.)? Can we see it? Does it exist?

Where have you gone, Joe DiMaggio?

2005-11-30T09:50:00.000-05:00

Hearts skipped a beat in New York yesterday morning when Yankees fans read that Joe Torre might consider moving A-Rod or The Captain, Derek Jeter, to center field. Would Joe really move his effective third baseman and Gold Gove-winning shortstop to the outfield?

But it seems that this rumor was simply the product of irresponsible reporting.

Here’s what The Daily News is reporting today:
The source of the discussion was a story written by a reporter from Reuters, an international wire service, which appeared late Monday night. In it, Torre was quoted as saying as that the Yankees "have thought about" filling their gaping hole in center field with either Jeter or Rodriguez. He also reportedly said, "It certainly is a consideration" and noted that other star infielders have made similar shifts.

Cashman said he woke up yesterday morning and was "shocked" when he learned of the story. He said he immediately called Torre to ask about the quotes and was told by the manager that the story was "untrue."

"He said, 'I didn't say that,'" Cashman said. "He told me that he was asked by the reporter if A-Rod and Jeter could handle, athletically, playing center field and he answered that they certainly could. But he also said (to the reporter) that the best athlete on the team is probably Mariano (Rivera) and, along those lines, he'd probably be the best player to go out there. If you've ever watched him shagging (flies) during batting practice you can see that. But those comments didn't appear in the story.

"Either way," Cashman added, "it's not something that we've ever discussed."

Read all about the search for center from Mike Lupica. Where have you gone, Joe DiMaggio? A city turns its lonely eyes to you...

With A Vengeance

2005-11-28T20:50:00.000-05:00

Bruce Willis is slated to star in a film honoring the soldiers in the Iraq War. Here is a portion of the great article about the film:

Angered by negative portrayals of the conflict in Iraq, Bruce Willis, the Hollywood star, is to make a pro-war film in which American soldiers will be depicted as brave fighters for freedom and democracy.
It will be based on the exploits of the heavily decorated members of Deuce Four, the 1st Battalion, 24th Infantry, which has spent the past year battling insurgents in the northern Iraqi town of Mosul...

The 50-year-old actor said that he was in talks about a film of “these guys who do what they are asked to for very little money to defend and fight for what they consider to be freedom”.

Unlike many Hollywood stars Willis supports the war and recently offered a $1m (about £583,000) bounty for the capture of any of Al-Qaeda’s most wanted leaders such as Osama Bin Laden, Ayman Al-Zawahiri or Abu Musab al- Zarqawi, its commander in Iraq. Willis visited the war zone with his rock and blues band, the Accelerators, in 2003.
“I am baffled to understand why the things I saw happening in Iraq are not being reported,” he told MSNBC, the American news channel.

He is expected to base the film on the writings of the independent blogger Michael Yon, a former special forces green beret who was embedded with Deuce Four and sent regular dispatches about their heroics.
Yon was at the soldiers’ ball with Willis, who got to know him through his internet war reports on www.michaelyon.blogspot.com.

“What he is doing is something the American media and maybe the world media isn’t doing,” the actor said, “and that’s telling the truth about what’s happening in the war in Iraq.”

He's not only a real-life patriot, but he also plays one on TV.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2005-11-24T06:15:00.000-05:00

"It has pleased Almighty God to prolong our national life another year, defending us with His guardian care against unfriendly designs from abroad and vouchsafing to us in His mercy many and signal victories over the enemy, who is of our own household. It has also pleased our Heavenly Father to favor as well our citizens in their homes as our soldiers in their camps and our sailors on the rivers and seas with unusual health. He has largely augmented our free population by emancipation and by immigration, while He has opened to use new sources of wealth and has crowned the labor of our workingmen in every department of industry with abundant rewards.

Moreover, He has been pleased to animate and inspire our minds and hearts with fortitude, courage, and resolution sufficient for the great trial of civil war into which we have been brought by our adherence as a nation to the cause of freedom and humanity, and to afford to us reasonable hopes of an ultimate and happy deliverance from all our dangers and afflictions...

And I do further recommend to my fellow-citizens aforesaid that on that occasion they do reverently humble themselves in the dust and from thence offer up penitent and fervent prayers and supplications to the Great Disposer of Events for a return of the inestimable blessings of peace, union, and harmony throughout the land which it has pleased Him to assign as a dwelling place for ourselves and for our posterity throughout all generations." ~ A Thanksgiving Day Proclamation, President Abraham Lincoln, 1864

Holiday Movie Review

2005-11-23T21:32:00.000-05:00

Because you might just need to sit in a dark theatre after talking all day to family members you love, some you just like and others you could live without. Have a fun holiday weekend!!!

Now Playing:
Rent
The groundbreaking 1990's Broadway hit gets the Hollywood treatment. The good news - most of the original cast has returned with their stunning voices and incredible acting. The bad news - there is something about walking through the streets of NYC, filing into the theatre with a businessman in a suit on your right and a grungy artist on your left, and feeling the energy of a live show that just might not translate to the big screen.
Let's just open up a restaurant in Santa Fe...

Walk the Line
A Johnny Cash expert, I’m not. But Matt Lewis is, and he has some info on the film. Plus Reese Witherspoon and Joaquin Phoenix are always worth seeing! I’m off to listen to ‘Ring of Fire’ so I can call myself a true country music fan.

Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
It's topped the box office and sold millions of books worldwide. This is the fourth installment of the boy wizard and his school friends, and the first to earn a PG-13 rating. When I was in school we just got to disect frogs, not turn people into them. What a rip-off.

Pride and Prejudice
So, Colin Firth will not be walking out of a lake in this one. But I have it from a Jane Austin authority that this version is better than the BBC mini-series.

The Ice Harvest
John Cusack and Billie Bob Thornton take on the mob in Wichita. Talent = good. Story line = ?

Syriana
Spoiler Alert: It's all Halliburton's fault. Because George Clooney didn't have enough fun showing the saintly journalists vs. the evil government earlier this year, he's taking the fight in color and to the Middle East. This is what happens when good actors believe bad spin.

Coming Soon:

The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (12/9/05)
Classic C.S. Lewis novel brought to life. Good vs. Evil…a lesson even Chris Matthews would enjoy. Suffering from LOTR withdrawal? This was shot in some of the same locations…Middle Earth…Narnia…you be the judge.

King Kong (12/14/05)
Giant gorilla meets girl… giant gorilla falls in love with girl… giant gorilla climbs the Empire State Building… your usual love story. Directed by Peter Jackson, who’s traded the miniature Hobbits for a larger-than-life primate.

The Producers (12/16/05)
Mel Brooks, Nathan Lane, Matthew Broderick, Will Ferrell, Uma Thurman, dancing grannies and Springtime for Hitler. Need we say more?

The New World (12/23/05)
Come for Colin Farrell and Christian Bale…stay for the Pocahontas story and vision of Terrence Malick.

Munich (12/23/05)
The story of how the Mossad kicked some terrorist butt after the murder of 11 Israelis at the 1972 Olympics. Maybe the future James Bond picked up some intel tricks while filming in Malta.
It has been said the film is both pro-Israel and pro-Palestinian. We’ll see.

Superman Returns (2006)
It just doesn’t get more American than Superman.

One Worth Fighting For

2005-11-21T08:00:00.000-05:00

Here are the words of a true American patriot. Tired of the constant negative media coverage and Democrat attacks against the war, SGT Walter J. Rausch sent this letter to his mother on behalf of the1st Platoon, 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault). His mother, in turn, sent it along to SGT Hook , who made sure the nation heard the facts from a soldier on the ground.

Read his letter, and help him spread the word:

"Mom,
Be my voice. I want this message heard. It is mine and my platoon’s to the country. A man I know lost his legs the other night. He is in another company in our batallion. I can no longer be silent after watching the sacrifices made by Iraqis and Americans everyday.Send it to a congressman if you have to. Send it to FOX news if you have to. Let this message be heard please…
My fellow Americans, I have a task for those with the courage and fortitude to take it. I have a message that needs not fall on deaf ears. A vision the blind need to see. I am not a political man nor one with great wisdom. I am just a soldier who finds himself helping rebuild a country that he helped liberate a couple years ago.I have watched on television how the American public questions why their mothers, fathers, brothers, and sisters are fighting and dying in a country 9000 miles away from their own soil. Take the word of a soldier, for that is all I am, that our cause is a noble one. The reason we are here is one worth fighting for. A cause that has been the most costly and sought after cause in our small span of existence on our little planet. Bought in blood and paid for by those brave enough to give the ultimate sacrifice to obtain it. A right that is given to every man, woman, and child I believe by God. I am talking of freedom.
Freedom. One word but yet countless words could never capture it’s true meaning or power. “For those who have fought for it, freedom has a taste the protected will never know.” I read that once and it couldn’t be more true. It’s not the average American’s fault that he or she is “blind and deaf” to the taste of freedom. Most American’s are born into their God given right so it is all they ever know. I was once one of them. I would even dare to say that it isn’t surprising that they take for granted what they have had all their life. My experiences in the military however opened my eyes to the truth.
Ironically you will find the biggest outcries of opposition to our cause from those who have had no military experience and haven’t had to fight for freedom. I challenge all of those who are daring enough to question such a noble cause to come here for just a month and see it first hand. I have a feeling that many voices would be silenced.
I watched Cindy Sheehan sit on the President’s lawn and say that America isn’t worth dying for. Later she corrected herself and said Iraq isn’t worth dying for. She badmouthed all that her son had fought and died for. I bet he is rolling over in his grave.
Ladies and gentleman I ask you this. What if you lived in a country that wasn’t free? What if someone told you when you could have heat, electricity, and water? What if you had no sewage systems so human waste flowed into the streets? What if someone would kill you for bad-mouthing your government? What if you weren’t allowed to watch TV, connect to the internet, or have cell phones unless under extreme censorship? What if you couldn’t put shoes on your child’s feet?
You need not to have a great understanding of the world but rather common sense to realize that it is our duty as HUMAN BEINGS to free the oppressed. If you lived that way would you not want someone to help you????
The Iraqi’s pour into the streets to wave at us and when we liberated the cities during the war they gathered in the thousands to cheer, hug and kiss us. It was what the soldier’s in WW2 experienced, yet no one questioned their cause!! Saddam was no better than Hitler! He tortured and killed thousands of innocent people. We are heroes over here, yet American’s badmouth our President for having us here.
Every police station here has a dozen or more memorials for officers that were murdered trying to ensure that their people live free. These are husbands, fathers, and sons killed every day. What if it were your country? What would your choice be? Everything we fight for is worth the blood that may be shed. The media never reports the true HEROISM I witness everyday in the Iraqi’s. Yes there are bad one’s here, but I assure you they are a minuscule percent. Yet they are a number big enough to cause worry in this country’s future.I have watched brave souls give their all and lose thier lives and limbs for this cause. I will no longer stand silent and let the “deaf and blind” be the only voice shouting. Stonewall Jackson once said, “All that I have, all that I am is at the service of the country.” For these brave souls who gave the ultimate sacrifice, including your son Cindy Sheehan, I will shout till I can no longer. These men and women are heroes. Their spirit lives on in their military and they will never be forgotten. They did not die in vain but rather for a cause that is larger than all of us.
My fellow countrymen and women, we are not overseas for our country alone but also another. We are here to spread democracy and freedom to those who KNOW the true taste of it because they fight for it everyday. You can see the desire in their eyes and I am honored to fight alongside them as an Infantryman in the 101st Airborne.
Freedom is not free, but yet it is everyone’s right to have. Ironic isn’t it? That is why we are here. Though you will always have the skeptics, I know that most of our military will agree with this message. Please, at the request of this soldier spread this message to all you know. We are in Operation Iraqi Freedom and that is our goal. It is a cause that I and thousands of others stand ready to pay the ultimate sacrifice for because, Cindy Sheehan, freedom is worth dying for, no matter what country it is! And after the world is free only then can we hope to have peace.
SGT Walter J. Rausch and 1st Platoon101st Airborne Division (Air Assault)"

Post Blows CIA Cover...Again

2005-11-18T07:51:00.000-05:00

Where are the indictments? Where is the special prosecutor? Why is the Washington Post allowed to print sensitive national security information to millions while Scooter Libby is hauled into court for allegedly saying Joe's wife worked for othe CIA?

The good news - the CIA is kicking in doors and taking names in the most successful actions against terror, after the War in Iraq.

The bad news - Congress is leaking classified information to the media and putting these operations and their operatives at risk.

So why does this story have a positive overtone, while the one on secret interrogation prisons got the Watergate Evil Eye? Perhaps because this deals with coalition building and reaching out to other nations, like France. The prisons are where the dirty work of actually getting results and future intel is done, like using troops to bring down a sadistic dictator in Iraq.

And this article doesn't miss the chance to reiterated the differences between George Tenent, the CIA director during 9/11 and the one who put this international co-op together, and Porter Goss, the new chief who prefers "unilateral" intel and building up the CIA with American officers and American initiatives. Maybe Goss prefers to ensure America can work alone, since "allies" can be finicky - like the French.

Here's the "proof" against Goss: Stories about Goss's reluctance to meet with his foreign counterparts are rife, fueled in part by a cable from headquarters to overseas station chiefs, saying appointments with foreign services should be arranged for Tuesdays or Thursdays. The memo, CIA officials have said, was not meant to discourage such meetings but to assure officers that Goss would set aside time for such important visitors.
During a recent trip to the U.S. Special Operations Command base in Qatar, Goss did not meet with the head of the country or Qatar's intelligence chief. Intelligence officials say that is because Goss had met with them recently. Others say Tenet would never had flown so far and missed a chance to schmooze.
So Goss is keeping a schedule and not schmoozing. How un-Washington of him. He must be doing something dastardly.

Checks and the Unbalanced

2005-11-16T10:13:00.000-05:00

So the Senate Republicans want a quarterly report from the White House on the War in Iraq. They introduced this bill as an alternative to the Democratic stupidity of demanding troop withdrawal from Iraq. They worried that they would lose enough Republicans in this vote that it would actually happen. And instead of grinding the minority party into the dust and taking those yellow-bellied RINOs to the woodshed, the “leadership” capitulated and compromised.

This latest example of conservative castration passed by a vote of 79-19. O.K., fine.

But here’s what we’re going to do. We’re going to require the Senate give the American people a quarterly update on all of their bills and actions. This will be done at a press conference, where all Senators must show the progress made on their bills. They will also have to provide a plan for the next quarter – and the results will be compared to their plans.

Because citizens were misled into voting for their representatives. Early intelligence, provided at election time, suggested many Republican senators were conservative. These senators made promises of lower taxes, smaller government and a stronger stance on defense. But, knowing what we know now, that intelligence has been proven faulty.

We want to know exactly what bills are being passed. We want to know exactly why those bills are necessary. And we want to know why the Senators vote the way they do (and you can bet most votes can’t be justified by “It’s what my constituents want.”).

Debates on war, Social Security, and other national issues can take months or years to figure out. But all is not completely lost. At least we know these serious issues were settled in the Senate yesterday:

SENATE RESOLUTION 314 – Designating Thursday, November 17, 2005 as “Feed America Thursday”
SENATE RESOLUTION 315—To Commemorate the bicentennial anniversary of the arrival of Lewis and Clark at the Pacific Ocean
Bicentennial Anniversary of Zebulon Montgomery Pike’s Explorations

Yeah, the Executive Branch is the one that needs to be kept on task.

Dean Denies Reality

2005-11-14T08:02:00.000-05:00

Howard Dean again avoided meaningful political discourse on Sunday when he refused to debate RNC Chariman Ken Mehlman on 'Meet the Press.'

When asked by Tim Russert about the vicious racist attacks made against Michael Steel, a Republican African-American running for Senate in MD, Dean reverted to the classic liberal argument and denied facts.

MR. RUSSERT: Picking up on what Ken Mehlman said about Michael Steele, the African-American Republican candidate in Maryland, being called an Uncle Tom, the Democratic Senate Campaign Committee seeking his credit report. Should you not...
DR. DEAN: I don't like that stuff, and I--now, look, the Republicans have a long history of saying that those things happened. And they may or may not have. So if that happened, it's not right. But I didn't hear Ken condemning the chairman of the Maryland party when he called me an anti-Semite. So let's try to up--speaking of moral values, let's have a better tone in our political campaigns. Because the truth is, the other thing that Time Kaine's race showed is that the person with the better tone and the more positive agenda won, and I like to see voters exercising their rights in that way.
MR. RUSSERT: But the workers on the campaign committee who sought his credit report have been dismissed.
DR. DEAN: They should have been. Absolutely, they should have been. I don't like that kind of stuff.
MR. RUSSERT: Could on either side?
DR. DEAN: On either side.

First of all, where is the follow-up? Was Russert even going to ask Dean about this had Mehlman not initiated the debate?

Let's just re-cap what "that kind of stuff" is. It's calling a highly respected man a "Simple Sambo." It's throwing Oreo cookies at this same man during public appearances. It's having the Democrat leader of the Maryland Senate call the Lieutenate Governor an "Uncle Tom." It's having Democrat operatives violate his privacy by stealing his social security number, accessing his private financial accounts, and trying to avoid detection.

Oh, and Howard, perhaps you didn't get an apology for the "anti-Semite" comment because it never happened. That's right, add that to your list of statements that may or may not be true.

Uncommon Valor Was a Common Virtue

2005-11-11T09:14:00.000-05:00

Eternal Father, strong to save, Whose arm hath bound the restless wave, Who bid'st the mighty Ocean deep It's own appointed limits keep; O hear us when we cry to thee, for those in peril on the sea... O Trinity of love and Power! Our brethren shield in danger's hour; From rock and tempest, fire and foe, Protect them wheresoe'er they go; Thus evermore shall rise to Thee, Glad hymns of praise from land and sea. ~ Navy Hymn

Our Heavenly Father, whose loving care encompasses even the sparrow in its flight, guide and protect, we pray, the men who fly the uncharted spaces of the sky. Bless those who, through service in the Air Force, stand guard over the sacred trust of home and country...Let Thy benediction be upon us, O God we pray. Lead us to carry on the trust left by our brothers, who gave with honor their lives in service of their country. May we find peace in the knowledge of our mission accomplished and their task completed through service for Thee. Amen. ~ Air Force Prayer

God of our fathers, whose almighty hand leads forth in beauty all the starry band of shining worlds in splendor through the skies our grateful songs before Thy throne arise...From war's alarms, from deadly pestilence, be Thy strong arm our ever sure defense; Thy true religion in our hearts increase, Thy bounteous goodness nourish us in peace... ~ Army Hymn

Almighty Father, whose command is over all and whose love never fails, make me aware of Thy Presence and obedient to Thy will. Keep me true to my best self, guarding me against dishonesty in purpose and deed and helping me to live so that I can face my fellow Marines, my loved ones, and Thee without shame or fear. Protect my family.
Give me the will to do the work of a Marine and to accept my share of responsibilities with vigor and enthusiasm. Grant me the courage to be proficient in my daily performance. Keep me loyal and faithful to my superiors and to the duties my Country and the Marine Corps have entrusted to me. Help me to wear my uniform with dignity, and let it remind me daily of the traditions which I must uphold.
If I am inclined to doubt, steady my faith; if I am tempted, make me strong to resist; if I should miss the mark, give me courage to try again.
Guide me with the light of truth and grant me wisdom by which I may understand the answer to my prayer. ~ Marines' Prayer

Semper Fidelis

2005-11-10T08:14:00.000-05:00

They've been called "Leathernecks," by other members of the service, "Jarheads" by jealous sailors, and "Teufelhunden," or "Devil Dogs" by the Germans in Belleau Wood. They've served and sacrificed in every battle since the founding of this nation. They are the only force entrusted to guard American embassies abroad, and protect the president at home.

They are the few. The proud. The Marines.

And today these patriots celebrate their 230th birthday. What gift could we, the civilians enjoying the freedom the Marines defend, possibly give that could match our tremendous gift of liberty?

The Fisher House is a nationwide effort that provides temporary housing to wounded military members. This amazing organization also transports and houses the family members of these heroes, so they can help their loved ones recouperate. You can give anything from money to frequent flier miles. Visit the link above, or go to the 630 WMAL site - they're starting their annual donation campaign today.

"Some people spend an entire lifetime wondering if they made a difference in the world. But, the Marines don't have that problem." Ronald Reagan, President of the United States; 1985

"The deadliest weapon in the world is a Marine and his rifle." ~ Gen. John "Black Jack" Pershing, U.S. Army

"I have just returned from visiting the Marines at the front, and there is not a finer fighting organization in the world!" ~ General of the Armies Douglas MacArthur; Korea, 21 September 1950

"They told (us) to open up the Embassy, or 'we'll blow you away.' And then they looked up and saw the Marines on the roof with these really big guns, and they said in Somali, "Igaralli ahow," which means 'Excuse me, I didn't mean it, my mistake'." ~ Karen Aquilar, in the U.S. Embassy; Mogadishu, Somalia, 1991

"We signed up knowing the risk. Those innocent people in New York didn't go to work thinking there was any kind of risk." ~Pvt. Mike Armendariz-Clark, USMC; Afghanastan, 20 September 2001
Quotes found at this great link.

Nero Tolerance Policy

2005-11-09T09:32:00.000-05:00

Seems the French have been practicing the fiddle for years, while parts of Paris burned. This is an amazing critique of the deteoriating and degrading social and economic system fostered by the "tolerant" French. It's even more prolific, considering it was written in 2002. (Found on RealClearPolitics)

Here are two other articles, from The Washington Times (the Islamist threat in Europe) and The Washington Post (the myth of racial equality), on the insanity ruling France.

Election Turn-Out

2005-11-09T07:46:00.000-05:00

Ok, so the political news this morning is that Democrats won both races for governor in New Jersey and Virginia, and that Arnold lost all four initiatives in California. Now, having a Democrat win in N.J. is no surprise - unions still have power and corruption is a political fact. But Virginia is a Red State, geographically near to D.C. and politically ambiguous where the governorship is concerned.

So liberals will be gloating today, saying this was a referrendum on the president and that the people are ready for new leadership.

But here's the deal, at least in Virginia. Local elections are won on...local issues! Kilgore (the Republican VA candidate) ran many ads on the death penalty in an attempt to paint Kaine (the new Dem governor) as weak on security. The voters - at least in Northern Virginia, which is Blue territory and where Kaine won over 70% of the votes - cared about traffic and schools, two issues Kaine hammered home. I live six miles from D.C., and it takes at least 45 minutes to get to and from work every day. Traffic - people face it every morning. Death penalty - people don't worry about it on a dialy basis.

If there's anything Republicans should take away from the election, it's this. We have to turn out the vote, which is difficult to do when conservatives are frustrated with their leadership. I don't think many Republicans switched parties and voted for Kaine. I think many Republicans just didn't vote. Kilgore never proved himself as a real conservative, and never showed true differences between himself and the current Democratic governor. Conservatives must have a reason to vote for somebody, beyond claimed party affiliation.

Republicans at all levels of government should realize that actions speak louder than words, and that they must pay attention to the issues voters care about. Yesterday, the actions of Dem voters spoke louder than the inaction of Republican ones, and the issues of importance carried the day.

Leathernecks vs. Pencil-necks

2005-11-04T07:41:00.000-05:00

I'm traveling this weekend, but will be back on Monday!

MUST READ: Michelle Malkin and the Mudville Gazette are tracking how the NYT distorts the final words of American soldiers to fit their own liberal agenda. Infuriating, heartbreaking...but nothing surprising from the Old Grey Lady. Think of this, the next time some professor claims there's no media bias, or when some lunatic says they "support the troops, but not the war."

Read it, and remember. We have the First Amendment not because some pencil-necked hippie writes for a newspaper. We have it because heroic leather-necked patriots fight for America.

The Peanut Gallery

2005-11-03T09:45:00.000-05:00

It seems the CIA has been doing its job by capturing, interrogating and neutralizing terrorist threats to the United States. But the Washington Post seems to think that these brave officers are operating as bullies, employing mean and unnecessary tactics to stop homicidal maniacs and preserve freedom around the globe.

Enter Jimmy Carter. (We’ll call him Mr. Georgia, because he sounds more and more like a beauty pageant contestant – “I wish for world peace, and for everyone to have a puppy named Peanut” – everyday.) Well, Mr. Georgia doesn’t like the possibility that the CIA may have “secret camps” set up to detain and interview terrorists and other enemies of the United States.

According to Al Jazeera, Mr. Georgia “denounced what he said was ‘a profound and radical change in the basic policies or moral values of our country’ in reaction to the report. ‘This is just one indication of what has been done under this administration to change the policies that have persisted all the way through our history,’ said Carter [Mr. Georgia], who championed human rights during his 1977-81 presidency.”

He must have been too busy championing for human rights when he allowed 66 American hostages to languish in Iran for 444 days.

But Mr. Georgia says this nation was “misled” into the current war against terrorists (probably the same ones from Iran, who are running free because the CIA didn’t have camps to keep them in.)

He must have been too busy championing for the human rights of the Iraqi women to listen to his own party on this issue.

Oh well, at least one thing is consistent – Mr. Georgia’s ability to predict elections. He characterized President Bush’s policy as a “quaqmire” and predicted the elections would fail. The Iraqi people would probably tell him otherwise.
And 15 years ago today, the American people could have told him all about failed campaigns, when fifty-nine percent of readers who entered an election contest predicted Ronald Reagan would win the 1980 presidential election. Forty percent chose Mr. Georgia.

Fighting French?

2005-11-03T09:43:00.000-05:00

Does anyone else find the irony in having French teenagers riot in the streets? This is the biggest fight they've put up since...when did we learn to slice baguettes?

Bring It On.

2005-11-02T06:15:00.000-05:00

The Democrats may have just woken a sleeping giant. They pushed with their hateful and unfounded attacks on the president and the war. They prodded with their theatrics and threats on the CIA hearings, DeLay indictment and on the Supreme Court nomination.

But yesterday they slapped the Republican leadership in the face by forcing a closed-door session on pre-war intelligence.

If "Dick" Durbin, Harry Reid, Teddy Kennedy and the rest of the congressional thugs want to play the enemies of the U.S., fine. But they damn well better know that they're flying a kamikaze flight that will only lead their side to crash and burn.

It's time Frist started acting like a leader - along with the other Republican senators - instead of allowing the frustrated Democrats control the government. If these guys acted more like The Hammer and less like the nail, this juvenile stunt would have never been pulled. It's time to stop declaring peace in our time, and fight the fight that needs to be fought.

Boo!

2005-10-31T06:42:00.000-05:00

The president will nominate Samuel A. Alito Jr. to the Supreme Court today. Alito, it seems, is the conservative judge that deserved to be nominated in the first place. He's also the nominee the liberals fear the most.
So, in honor of Halloween, I will look into my crystal ball and predict the future by telling you what the Democrats will say today.
"The president has caved to the extreme right wing of the party."
"We now see that the extreme right wing of the Republican party is running the White House now that Rove is in trouble."
"The extreme conservative right wing has taken the court hostage."
"This judge is out of touch with mainstream America, and an extreme right wing activist."
"Republicans will make old people freeze in the streets, take books away from your children steal your dreams and force you to work for the corrupt Big Businesses like Wall-Mart, Big Oil and Haliburton."

On a more promising note: CONGRATULATIONS to all the runners in the Marine Corps Marathon yesterday. My dad kicked some butt, running 26.2 miles in 4:30:22, proving that a 50-year-old Marine really can run circles around civilians!

Relax...It's the Weekend

2005-10-28T18:40:00.000-04:00

Want to read about the outrageous indictments and media obsession? Go here.
Want to relax and enjoy your weekend? Check out the stories below.

What do New Yorkers do when the City doesn’t have the familiar smell of roasted chestnuts, subway steam, car fumes and restaurant trash? Call the cops.

Imagine how surprised the scientists were…
“Nut-cracking Gorilla Surprises Scientists” – CNN Headline

Is it possible to be more celibate? (Maybe, for the scientists listed above)
“More school, celibacy for Weezer singer” – CNN Headline

Dateline: ITALY…goldfish bowls banned…Mediterranean feared next…

Watch your “W’s” and “Q’s”
Some in the Bush Administration must be offended by the banned letter “W” in Turkey. No word, yet, from John Q. Public.

The Democrats are trying to decide on a new slogan – it’s between “Together, We Can Do Better” and “Together, America Can Do Better.” The Club for Growth has these other suggestions, as reported in The Hill:
• Democrats ’06: From each according to his abilities, to each according to his needs.
• Yeeargh!
• We can do bitter better!
• If anyone can outspend Republicans, it’s us!
The Winner:
Together, we’ll become France.

South Siders Sweep Series! Congrats to the White Sox!!

In the D.C. area this weekend? Come cheer on the 30,000 runners – including my Dad - at the Marine Corps Marathon!

Going trick-or-treating? Here’s everything you wanted to know about Halloween!

True story of the day:
As if traffic wasn’t bad enough in D.C., I was stuck behind a liberal propaganda machine (a.k.a. a bad driver who plastered his car with bumper-stickers) this morning. He was smoking while driving a Honda Civic hybrid with the environmental plates. Next to his "I support Cindy Sheehan" sticker was this gem: "Ignorance and arrogance is bad foreign policy."
Now, I voted for Bush, but at least I know that the grammatically correct political dig would be, “Ignorance and arrogance ARE bad foreign policy.”
Maybe he was trying to save energy by being such a dim bulb.
Click here to see the actual sticker. Thank God for teachers’ unions and the NEA.

Racist Attacks Republican

2005-10-28T08:04:00.000-04:00

Michael Steele is the former head of the Maryland Republican Party, the current lieutenant governor and candidate for U.S. Senate. He is also the target of outrageous racist attacks from a liberal blogger - because Steele is also black.
The doctored photo posted by Steve Gilliard shows Steele in minstrel paint with the caption reading, "I's Simple Sambo and I's running for the Big House." Even if I did post photos, I wouldn't want this garbage on my site. But it must be seen to be believed - don't worry, it's not FCC offensive, just offensive to those living in a post-George Wallace (D-Ala.) world.

Here is the Washington Post story. Below is an excerpt with an incredible quote by Joe Trippi.
"The Democratic Party has finally reached a new low with the worst kind of racist gutter politics, and it's the kind of racism that people in Maryland reject, regardless of their political party," said Leonardo Alcivar, the campaign spokesman.
Democrats disavowed any connection to the News Blog, which typically includes liberal political content. The site is maintained by New Yorker Steve Gilliard, who is African American, and it has been up for two years. He estimates that it gets about 15,000 hits a day.
The Steele depiction was "extremely offensive and distasteful and has no place in politics or in any other aspect of public discourse," said Derek Walker of the Maryland Democratic Party.
Joe Trippi, who is credited with using the Internet to reinvent campaigning while managing Howard Dean's 2004 presidential bid and who is advising Democratic Senate candidate Kweisi Mfume, said the incident highlights a pitfall of the medium. But he said he was shocked that Steele would blame Democrats.
"That's almost as bad as what the Web site did -- to try to smear an entire party with what one random person threw up on the Web," Trippi said.

No, Joe, political facts are not the same as racial slurs. Perhaps Mr. Steele wouldn't blame the entire party if this sort of racist trash was a single incident. But it is only the latest in a long string of hatred shown against black Republicans.
Remember when Harry Belafonte said Colin Powell and Condi Rice were "slaves who lived in the house" and served the president?
Remember when Howard Dean, head of the DNC, made the crass and classless "joke" about minority hotel staffers?
Remember when a major media outlet demonized the eyes of Condi Rice? You should, it happened this week.
To his credit Tim Kaine, Democrat candidate for VA governor, had Gilliard's link pulled from his campaign site.
But excusing the hatred of party leaders based on what one random candidate pulled from the Web would be almost as bad as excusing racism all together.

MIERS WITHDRAWS NOMINATION

2005-10-27T08:57:00.000-04:00

BREAKING...MIERS WITHDRAWS NOMINATION... 8:58 a.m.

No news articles available, yet. Here is the most recent story on the nomination, posted this morning.
Here's Noonan's article from three weeks ago - seems Miers took her advice. The conservative revolution continues...

UPDATED: 9:24 a.m.
MSNBC wins the speed game - here's the article.
CNN's up...
Fox is in...
Washington Post...

UPDATED... 9:33 A.M.

Statement by the President: (h/t Mr. Jim at The Leadership Institute)

Today, I have reluctantly accepted Harriet Miers' decision to withdraw her nomination to the Supreme Court of the United States.
I nominated Harriet Miers to the Supreme Court because of her extraordinary legal experience, her character, and her conservative judicial philosophy. Throughout her career, she has gained the respect and admiration of her fellow attorneys. She has earned a reputation for fairness and total integrity. She has been a leader and a pioneer in the American legal profession. She has worked in important positions in state and local government and in the bar. And for the last five years, she has served with distinction and honor in critical positions in the Executive Branch.
I understand and share her concern, however, about the current state of the Supreme Court confirmation process. It is clear that Senators would not be satisfied until they gained access to internal documents concerning advice provided during her tenure at the White House -- disclosures that would undermine a President's ability to receive candid counsel. Harriet Miers' decision demonstrates her deep respect for this essential aspect of the Constitutional separation of powers -- and confirms my deep respect and admiration for her.
I am grateful for Harriet Miers' friendship and devotion to our country. And I am honored that she will continue to serve our Nation as White House Counsel.
My responsibility to fill this vacancy remains. I will do so in a timely manner.

Peace Through Strength

2005-10-26T08:19:00.000-04:00

Yesterday, President Bush gave an inspiring and informative speech on the War on Terror. It was the most specific - and one of the hardest hitting - outline of why we fight, and why the fight must go on. Read the speech, and glimpse the president we rallied around, and still support in this calling.

Some may say that this is just a distraction from other issues. But - as the liberal elitists would say - America is not alone in the world. There's Nigeria, Romania, Egypt, Russia and China, where the cancer of terror has spread. And there's still Iraq - where desperate bombers target the media, Iran - where government leaders vow to destroy Israel, and Syria - where terrorists assassinate national leaders. In these countries, the scourge of terror continues to fester. (h/t to The Counterterrorism Blog - all the news on international terrorism that's fit to print)

Here is an excerpt from the president's speech:
The influence of Islamic radicalism is also magnified by helpers and enablers. They've been sheltered by authoritarian regimes -- allies of convenience like Syria and Iran -- that share the goal of hurting America and modern [sic] Muslim governments, and use terrorist propaganda to blame their own failures on the West, on America, and on the Jews...
Some have argued that extremism has been strengthened by the actions of our coalition in Iraq, claiming that our presence in that country has somehow caused or triggered the rage of radicals. I would remind them that we were not in Iraq on September 11th, 2001, and al Qaeda attacked us anyway. The hatred of the radicals existed before Iraq was an issue, and it will exist after Iraq is no longer an excuse.

What's the Word? 10/25/05

2005-10-25T07:35:00.000-04:00

Here are the top stories for Tuesday, October 25, 2005:
NEWS:
Iraqis Vote for Constitution, American Democrats Lose...Again; Rosa Parks Dies; AU President Paid to Leave; Hoping for Death and Defeat

PLUS:
Roker Rocked by Wilma; South Siders Head South; Great Words

NEWS:
Iraqis Vote for Constitution, American Democrats Lose...Again:
Democracy marches on in Iraq, leaving the lunacy of the Left in the dust. Add it to the list of international liberal losses in the past few years (including this, this, this...!).

Rosa Parks Dies:
On the highway to heaven, we know who deserves the front seat of the bus. God Bless, Mrs. Parks.

AU President Paid to Leave:
$3.75 million AFTER stealing from a university and being voted out by the board? Fire ME, please!

Hoping for Death and Defeat:
Guess 2,000 U.S. soldiers can't die fast enough for these sick opportunists.

PLUS:
Roker Rocked by Wilma:
Perhaps this is why people should stay inside during a hurricane.

South Siders Head South:
Game three of the series is tonight. No, the Yankees aren't playing - although lots of their former pitchers are.

Great Words~
"When the government fears the people there is liberty; when the people fear the government there is tyranny." ~ Thomas Jefferson

History Repeats Itself

2005-10-24T21:34:00.000-04:00

Even Lincoln had to put up with the doom-and-gloom media. And we all know how badly that Civil War thing turned out.
At least we can always count on the media for one thing - attacking Republican presidents.

'06 is no '94

2005-10-24T21:17:00.000-04:00

Remember, while things may seem difficult now for the president and Republicans, it could always be worse... we could be Democrats. They can't get their own party in order - how could they possibly try to run the nation?

Here's an excerpt from the above article (the Mercury News requires a free subscription, and it's worth having). And who knew LBJ could see the future of his party?
History also doesn't offer Democrats much comfort when it comes to another key ingredient of victory: getting their own house in order. Today's Democrats have no strong political infrastructure of their own to exploit, either at the grass-roots level or among the party's ranking figures.
In the 1974 upset, the Watergate babies fed off and joined a liberal reform alliance that had been organizing and lobbying since the 1950s. And in 1994, the GOP not only showcased the Contract With America, but it also drew on 20 years of effort by conservative think tanks and organizations in laying out an agenda and mobilizing constituencies...These days, Democrats remain bitterly divided over the Iraq war, hamstrung particularly by the disconnect between party activists who overwhelmingly opposed military action and the Washington leaders..who all voted to authorize the use of force in Iraq. Even in the domestic arena, the Democrats have failed to develop a unifying agenda.
At this point, the Democrats suffer from the same shortage of ideas and leadership that President Lyndon Johnson recognized about rival Republicans 10 months before the 1964 presidential election.
A recently released presidential tape of that time reports an exchange between Johnson and a newspaper reporter.
``What Republican frightens you the most?'' the journalist asked.
``Well, not any of them now,'' Johnson said. The Republicans, he reflected, stood for nothing except obstruction. ``They're just against things,'' and that just makes them look ``silly.''

Sleeps With the Fishes...

2005-10-21T08:15:00.000-04:00

Wonder if Saddam ever thought the people he tortured would seek revenge. Guess the delusional dictator isn't as loved as he thinks he is.

Chris Matthews: Judge and Jury

2005-10-20T21:11:00.000-04:00

Matthews has gone the way of his minions. Just calm down, Chris…remember, you’re a journalist, not a judge.
It’s hard when you see the villain as the victim, but just try to be fair.

I had a professor who absolutely loved Matthews. When this prof made “Hardball” required viewing, I knew class would get interesting.
Remember this blow-up between Matthews and Michelle Malkin over Kerry and the Swift Boat Vets?
Well, my career-professor came into class the next day still pumped from the show. He then asked, “Did anyone see Chris Matthews take down that girl in that debate yesterday?”
This was just too much. I said, “That 'girl' was Michelle Malkin, a highly respected and successful commentator. And it wasn’t a debate – Matthew’s went the way of all liberals and just shouted over what she had to say. There was no debate – Malkin won because she actually read the book.”

This was followed by the shouting of 20 liberal students in the class.

“When you have the facts on your side, argue the facts. When you have the law on your side, argue the law. When you have neither, holler.” ~ Al Gore

Hillary's Curse

2005-10-18T20:37:00.000-04:00

As October swings on without the Yankees in the playoffs, fans from the Bronx to the Battery want to know how the best team in baseball could be out of the World Series, again.
Now we have our answer. "The Curse of the Bambino" has been replaced by "The Carpetbagger Curse."
Please, New Yorkers, for the sake of The Dynasty...for the legacies of Mantle, Maris and Munson... for the combo of Babe, Bucky, Buckner and Boone... for the era of Jeter, the leadership of Torre and the sanity of The Boss... vote for Pirro in 2006 and end the madness!

Words of Wisdom...

2005-10-18T08:09:00.000-04:00

...from two true conservatives.

Rush is right, as usual. Here he talks about why it's great to be a conservative, what's really happening within the Republican Party, and how the liberals are (still) imploding. Think the Miers fight is bad for the right? Remember, says Rush, "Lest anyone forget, for several years before the 1980 election, we had knockdown battles within the GOP. The result: Ronald Reagan won two massive landslides."

Here, Peggy Noonan gives the White House a plan should the nomination - not the fight within the party, but the actual nomination - become toxic. She takes the "sexist" claims to task as the desperate efforts they were. And she discusses how the obvious religion card was a just a bad bluff. Amen, Ms. Noonan.

And then there's this. Hypocrisy, thy name is journalist. He, he,he...

Bronx Bombers

2005-10-11T07:53:00.000-04:00

The Yankees are out of the post-season, officially ending the baseball year for millions of fans. The Captain best expresses the disappointment of another Yankee-less World Series.
Read all about the game last night from the best sports page out there.
And, Bernie, thanks for the last 15 years. We were always proud to have you in pinstripes.

Supreme Questions

2005-10-04T10:37:00.000-04:00

Many of us worked countless hours last year to get President Bush re-elected. And when he won with a referendum to fight for conservative issues, we were ready to fight with him.

But it seems that fight has turned into a stalemate, with the bloodletting coming from our side. Republicans do not understand that the base – the voters and fighters and believers – are desperate for someone to stand up and say enough. We won the elections. We have the power. This is what we believe. This is the voice of the people.

We elected President Bush precisely for this moment, when the lasting influences of conservative ideals and constitutionalist interpretations are in jeopardy. We wanted a leader. Instead, we received a compromiser.

Some may say that Mr. Bush couldn’t count on the senate Republicans to vote for a strong conservative Supreme Court nominee (and that’s one of many, many problems in the Congress). But if he had shown the mettle we thought he had by nominating a stronger candidate, there would have been a reckoning in '06 for Republican senators who defected.

Conservatives are told to trust the president – he knows Miers is essentially one of us, and that she is in line with his views of the court. And we will employ the maxim of Reagan to “Trust, but verify.” But the problem is that Mr. Bush also considers himself a strong conservative, despite his weak and irresponsible stances on tariffs, growing government, unchecked spending, etc., etc., etc… It’s becoming more and more difficult to trust.

I’m sure Ms. Miers is a good person – I worked for people who knew her personally and respected her dedication. She goes to church. She works for the president.

But conservatives are not stupid. Expecting us to be o.k. with someone just because she shows up to services on Sunday is insulting. And thinking we’ll blindly follow Mr. Bush – well, that just misunderestimates us.

Stench of Corruption

2005-09-29T08:08:00.000-04:00

Scott McClellan gave a "press" briefing yesterday following the indictment of Tom DeLay. After suffering the ramblings of Helen Thomas, he got this question from a member of the "unbiased," "professional," "media":

Q Is the President concerned that there's a stench of corruption around the Republican establishment in Washington?
MR. McCLELLAN: Terry, I don't think you can make such a broad characterization. There are some instances of individual situations, and we'll let those -- the legal process proceed in those instances.
Q But he's not -- he doesn't take it as seriously as he takes other allegations of wrongdoing?
MR. McCLELLAN: I didn't say that; you said that.

"STENCH OF CORRUPTION?" Just for fun, I Googled the phrase. Guess what the major hits were - statements made on Liberal blogs referring to Bush. Seems like Terry did some reading and made a quick judgement about a man who is innocent until proven guilty. And even the Washington Post questions the validity of the charges!

Perhaps Terry is simply trying to waft the stench away from the rotting media body post-Katrina. Yes, corruption is everywhere, Terry, even in your own newsroom. How about Here? Maybe Here or Here. Not to mention this, this, and this. Hmmm...rush to judgment...stench of corruption...pot and kettle?

College Corruption

2005-09-28T19:35:00.000-04:00

Want to know one of the biggest and still untold stories of scandal and deception in America? No, it's not about shady campaigns or powerful corporations. It's about the unchecked power of university presidents and professors which, combined with the endless and often needless increases in tuition, has led to a degradation of education.
Take this for example. The president of American University in D.C. is being investigated by both the FBI and board of trustees for spending over $500,000 of university money on his personal chef, an engagement party for his son, and landscaping for his estate. Guess the base salary of $800,000 a year wasn't enough for him.
But AU is not alone in this silent scandal. Here is a great piece outlining the loss of integrity and individual thought on campuses across the nation.
Below is a timeline of events on AU's campus, from the initial inquiry to the current protest. While this is an isolated demonstration, I am certain similar outrage would be expressed at most schools, if the facts of university spending and corruption were disclosed.

9/3/05: AU President's Expenses Examined

9/16/05: Chef Laid Off Amid Probe

9/20/05: Federal Officials Scrutinize Ladner

9/22/05: $500,000 Itemized

9/23/05: Ladner Pays Overdue Bills

9/24/05: Ladner Defends Spending

9/25/05: Board Split on Keeping Ladner

9/27/05: Ladner Hopes to Return

9/27/05: "Do As I Say"

9/27/05: AU Faculty Members Vote No Confidence

9/28/05: Once-Friendly AU Board Splinters

Democrat Pretty-Boys

2005-09-27T06:46:00.000-04:00

It seems there are more than enough pretty-boy Democrats to take the place of John Edwards. The first is a sell-out senator from Indiana. The second is a two-bit actor from Boston.
Pretty Boy #1: Evan Bayh
Watch this guy - he's a "moderate" Dem from red-state Indiana, with a political pedigree, twin boys, a blonde wife, and a drive to win the White House in '08. Too bad he's also a a sell-out, voting against fellow Hoosier and future SC Justice John Roberts after introducing him in the hearings. But then, Bayh practiced ignoring the people of Indiana and courting the leftist base by voting against Condi Rice. The Dems can spin this guy so he looks very, very good for a national race. But if he keeps stabbing people in the back, we'll have to dub him Evan "The Ripper" Bayh.

Pretty Boy #2: Ben Affleck
How will this Bostonian play in Virginia? Let's just say that a senate race between Ben Affleck and George Allen would be like an Oscar race between Gigli and The Godfather.

Conservatism 101

2005-09-22T17:49:00.000-04:00

Words of wisdom and of warning from the brilliant Peggy Noonan. She addresses government spending and encroachment with the conviction of a true conservative. And she defends the legacy of a great man with the reverence of one who was part of the revolution.

Thanks for writing what many of us have been thinking (and thanks to Matt Lewis for passing this along). Here is an excerpt:
A lot of Bush supporters assumed the president would get serious about spending in his second term. With the highway bill he showed we misread his intentions.
The administration, in answering charges of profligate spending, has taken, interestingly, to slighting old conservative hero Ronald Reagan. This week it was the e-mail of a high White House aide informing us that Ronald Reagan spent tons of money bailing out the banks in the savings-and-loan scandal. This was startling information to Reaganites who remembered it was a fellow named George H.W. Bush who did that. Last month it was the president who blandly seemed to suggest that Reagan cut and ran after the attack on the Marine barracks in Lebanon.
Poor Reagan. If only he'd been strong he could have been a good president.
Before that, Mr. Mehlman was knocking previous generations of Republican leaders who just weren't as progressive as George W. Bush on race relations. I'm sure the administration would think to criticize the leadership of Bill Clinton if they weren't so busy having jolly mind-melds with him on Katrina relief. Mr. Clinton, on the other hand, is using his new closeness with the administration to add an edge of authority to his slams on Bush. That's a pol who knows how to do it.

Keep the Crazies Coming...

2005-09-21T08:15:00.000-04:00

It seems the Washington Post is still in love with Cindy Sheehan. She's leading a protest this weekend in D.C., and this is the Post's attempt at a balanced article showing the divide in military families over the war.

But no mention of Cindy's "occupied New Orleans" comment. And no mention of her calling out Hillary on the war.

Guess it doesn't matter if a lunatic is leading the charge - they've followed Gore, Dean and Kerry. Why stop now?

Tripping Down Memory Lane

2005-09-20T08:07:00.000-04:00

Kerry and Edwards are attacking the president on the war, "Mission Accomplished," and Halliburton. Umm... someone should tell these guys that it's 2005, and they LOST the election using these arguments. Guess they're wandering down memory lane with Clinton, remembering when they had some political power...

John K., remember...short sentences. And truthful ones, if possible. He uses neither in this run-on:
Using the nickname Bush used for Brown, Kerry said, "Brownie is to Katrina what Paul Bremer is to peace in Iraq, what George Tenet is to slam-dunk intelligence, what Paul Wolfowitz is to parades paved with flowers in Baghdad, what Dick Cheney is to visionary energy policy, what Donald Rumsfeld is to basic war planning, what Tom DeLay is to ethics and what George Bush is to 'Mission Accomplished' and 'Wanted Dead or Alive.' "

John E., you need to learn a bit about business before trying to run them into the ground. First, Bush wasn't in charge of Halliburton. Second, how about capping the salaries of congressmen, then we'll talk about capping private businesses.
"I might have missed something, but I don't think the president ever talked about putting a cap on the salaries of the CEOs of Halliburton and the other companies . . . who are getting all these contracts," he said in a speech at the Center for American Progress, a liberal think tank.

Meet the Press

2005-09-18T10:44:00.000-04:00

Blair on British Press; Clinton on Meet the Press

Blair on British Press:
I'll say it again - Tony Blair rocks. First, he blasted the Kyoto Protocol at Clinton's U.N. love-fest.
Then, Blair went after the BBC, saying they were Anti-American and hate-filled.

Clinton on Meet the Press:
When asked about the impact of the War in Iraq, Clinton tows the line, calling the war "premature", "unilateral", taking away from the "real fight in Afghanistan" and the war on terror against Bin Laden.

"I don't think any person can tell you with a straight face that Katrina was caused by global warming," said Clinton. He then said that the melting of the ice caps will complicate the rebuilding of New Orleans and put 50 feet of Manhattan under water because sea levels will rise during the next 50 years.

Clinton calls for taking FEMA out of Homeland Security. You may want to discuss that with your wife, Bill.

Great Words~
"The Lord controls rulers, just as he determines the course of rivers." ~ Proverbs 21:1

CBS: Is Bush a Liberal?

2005-09-17T08:22:00.000-04:00

The CBS Early Show ran a segment this morning titled "Is Bush A Liberal?" because of the spending requested for the Gulf.
No CBS... if Bush were a liberal, he'd raise taxes and run out of Iraq. He does the jobs that need to be done, but with accountability and perseverance.
But it's hilarious to see the media acknowledge that Libs are the usual irresponsible big spenders.

Evening Edition...

2005-09-16T21:19:00.000-04:00

President Rules Out Tax Hikes
- Congress Must "Sacrifice" Highway Pork

VP Cheney to Have Surgery

Blair Denounces Kyoto, Steals Clinton's Thunder

Schwarzenegger Running for Reelection

Cindy Sheehan Protests Troops in "Occupied New Orleans"

What's the Word? 9/16/05

2005-09-16T07:54:00.000-04:00

Here are the top stories for Friday, September 16:
Bush Address UPDATED: It's called 'Tax & Spend' for a reason; Most Evacuees Won't Return; U.N. All Talk and No Action Makes U.N. a Dull Group; Roberts Done with Stupid Questions; Schwarzenegger to Announce Re-election Bid Today; Terrorists Kill Iraqi Worshippers
Plus: Entertainment News; Great Words

Bush Address: It's called 'Tax & Spend' for a reason:
I hate to say it, but I was not impressed by the president's speech last night. The speech itself seemed unfocused and stilted, and the words themselves were not that reassuring. I agree with Michelle Malkin - having the prez read an 800 number was awkward. UPDATE: Also on Malkin's site, this brilliant rewrite from Scrappleface of the speech we should have gotten. If only...
The Federal Government was the main character in the speech. Many, many promises...very little explanation. We have to know where the money is going, and where it is going to come from. Here's what the money guys (aka Congress) are saying.
We have the phrase "Tax & Spend" that usually applies to Dems. But now we're hearing about massive spending, and there's usually only one way to offset that - when are taxes going to come into play.
And a question about the Urban Homesteading proposal - why would the low-income recipients of gov't land suddenly qualify for a mortgage to build a house? Wouldn't they have done that already if they could? If you know, please enlighten this apartment renter.
Please, Mr. President, answer this question. And the one about funding. And the one about rebuilding Iraq and New Orleans. You've got big vision and big plans. Reassure us, and you've got our support, too.

Most Evacuees Won't Return:
Go West, young men.

U.N.: All Talk and No Action Makes U.N. a Dull Group
So, what was accomplished? (Thanks, Counterterrorism Blog)

Roberts Done with Stupid Questions:
He doesn't have to suffer the senators today. Here's what two "open-minded" Democrats think of this brilliant judge.

Schwarzenegger to Announce Re-election Bid Today

Terrorists Kill Iraqi Worshippers:
As usual, it seems killing in the name of Allah doesn't protect those who pray to Allah

Plus:
Entertainment News:
Renee Z. and Kenny C. split.
Britney has baby boy. Now, please go away.

Great Words:
"Political ability is the ability to foretell what is going to happen tomorrow, next week, next month and next year. And to have the ability afterwards to explain why it didn't happen."
~ Winston Churchill

Editorial Journalism

2005-09-15T06:43:00.000-04:00

It's stories like this that make me regret being a journalism major.

Where does this headline belong?
A Five Day Legacy of Chaos
What happened at the New Orleans Convention Center is a harsh indictment of government.

The editorials, maybe the op-ed space, right? If you're at the Washington Post, it goes on page A1, with the special Katrina coverage. And it's the leading tease on the radio ad for the day.

This piece, littered with personal judgments, made the front page. I'm not saying that there isn't a story here. Nor am I saying that government at all levels, most importantly the local one, did the best job possible. The point here is that this is not journalism - this is a long editorial with quotes. Just because the writers were there, they don't get some special privilege to editorialize in the news section.

So, let's take just a few of their most biased claims and do the reasoning the writers failed to do.

For five eternal-seeming days, as many as 20,000 people, most of them black, waited to be rescued, not just from the floodwaters of Hurricane Katrina but from the nightmarish place where they had sought refuge.
This is the first sentence. Yes, most of them were black because most of the New Orleans populations was black. This is not a surprise.

But even without those numbers [of reported deaths, rapes and attacks], what happened in the convention center stands as a harsh indictment of government's failure to help its citizens when they needed it most. That futility was symbolized by the presence in the convention center for three of the most chaotic days of at least 250 armed troops from the Louisiana National Guard. They were camped out in a huge exhibition hall separated from the crowd by a wall, and used their trucks as a barricade when they were afraid the crowd would break in.
A "harsh indictment" according to what source? This is personal opining in a front page news story! And the Guard troops thought the "mob" would attack them - a barricade seems a good idea if you're in danger.

But why didn't the Guard go in? Here's an actual quote (one of the few in this article): "We didn't want another Kent State," said Army Lt. Gen. Russel L. Honore, commander of the active-duty military forces responding to Katrina. "They weren't trained for crowd control." So the military is wrong - as usual, with the press - for not wanting to kill civilians unintentionally.

Here's what the writers say about the evacuation process:
But by this point, the appeals from Blanco and Nagin were aimed at one group in particular -- the poor. Those with resources had already bolted.
Damn those people "with resources" who followed the warnings and evacuated! If they had any compassion, they would have stayed behind, too! Perhaps a responsible editor should have changed "bolted" to, um, "left."

But why didn't the poor leave?
"They tend to look at evacuation orders as scare tactics," said Troy Jarreau, a New Orleans schoolteacher who has taught many children from impoverished households.
That's exactly what evacuation orders are! They give you the scary facts of a category five hurricane smashing into the city, and tell you to get out of the way!

These are just a few examples from this one story. It's a shame that the writers undercut the story by making it their personal sounding board. But this sort of story-telling is everywhere, and it degrades the necessity of a free press.

Evening Edition...

2005-09-14T22:17:00.000-04:00

U.S. Stands Against Iran...U.N. Useless, again.

Foreign "Relief Workers" Enter U.S., No Questions Asked (Thanks, Counterterrorism Blog!)

Roberts Rocks the Senate. This is what the rule of law is all about.

Recovery Effort Improving (Found in the LA Times, surprisingly enough)

Pledge Ruled Unconstitutional in San Fran Case

Louisiana Congressman Used Nat'l Guard to Visit Home

DeLay Misunderestimated in Budget Quote (Read why Rush thinks DeLay really said it.)

Infuriating Quotes of the Day 9/14/05

2005-09-14T06:40:00.000-04:00

Infuriating quotes of the day:
I was looking for real news stories to post today, and came across so many asinine comments that they deserved their own posting. Perhaps this will become a regular part of the blog. But there are just too many to include, as the Left continues their vile and baseless attacks on the president and all conservatives. So here are the excerpts...read the full stories for even more crazy quotes.

This entire op-ed qualifies. So does this. These were the most emailed stories at the LA Times.

Louis Farrakhan said this about the hurricane:
"I heard from a very reliable source who saw a 25 foot deep crater under the levee breach. It may have been blown up to destroy the black part of town and keep the white part dry." (Thanks to Generation Why?)

And the Washington Post wonders why blacks believe Bush hates them. Here's this gem is entitled, "Was Kanye West Right?"

Oh, Howard, just keep talking. And we all know what a terrible job Lincoln did with the Civil War - how he didn't care about the American people enough to free the slaves and save the republic. Leave it to those crazy Republicans to divide the nation...
COLMES: You've said that President Bush doesn't care about all the American people and you said something similar about Judge Roberts, that he may love the law, but doesn't necessarily love the American people.
DEAN: Yes.
COLMES: Do you ever — concerned about rhetoric that you may put out like that, that may be more divisive than uniting?
DEAN: I think it's true. I think it's time somebody told the truth. The president said he was a uniter, turned out to be the most divisive president, probably, in our history except perhaps before the Civil War.

Damon Waynes, comedian turned war expert and etiquette coach, spoke of Iraq in Orlando:
"I'll send my sons if he sends his daughters," Wayans told the crowd, including Daily News contributor Jawn Murray, at Tom Joyner's Family Reunion in Disneyworld. "Put those two drunk b-s on a plane and let them go fight. At least I know my sons would be getting some on the way."

There are so many from the Roberts hearings, but here are a few from Biden (at least Roberts shows what intelligent commentary should sound like!):
BIDEN: Oh, Judge...
(CROSSTALK)
ROBERTS: She said, It's not correct for me to comment.
Now, there's a reason for that.
BIDEN: But you're going from the...
SPECTER: Wait a minute, Senator Biden. He's not finished his answer.
BIDEN: He's filibustering, Senator. But OK, go ahead.
(LAUGHTER)
SPECTER: No, he's not. No, he's not.
(CROSSTALK)
ROBERTS: That's a bad word, Senator.
BIDEN: That's if we do it to you. Go ahead. Go ahead and continue not to answer.
And this...

SPECTER: Now, wait a minute. Let him finish his answer, Senator Biden.
BIDEN: His answers are misleading, with all due respect.
SPECTER: Well...
(CROSSTALK)
SPECTER: Now, wait a minute, wait a minute.
They may be misleading, but they are his answers.
BIDEN: OK, fine.
SPECTER: You may finish, Judge Roberts.
BIDEN: Fire away. Fire away.
At least I'm misunderstanding your answer.
ROBERTS: With respect, they are my answers. And, with respect, they're not misleading, they're accurate.

What's the Word? 9/13/05

2005-09-13T06:43:00.000-04:00

Here are the top stories for Tuesday, September 13, 2005:
Roberts Rocks; U.N. Can't Define Terrorism; CNN - Fact vs. Fiction; L.A. Blackout; Sharpton Loses Dem Support; Great Words

Roberts Rocks:
This fellow Hoosier and future Chief Justice made the opportunist senators look like...opportunist senators. Actually, he defined brilliance and integrity.
It would have been great to hear him say to the smug senate inquisitors, "Thank you. And while I'm here, I resent the implication that I am a racist, sexist hack. These charges have been made to my face, in front of my children, and I would rather prosecute crooks like you than answer your condesending questions for the next week. But I serve the nation, so let's roll." But, that's just one of the many reasons why he's there and I'm here!
Here is the full transcript of his real statement.

U.N. Can't Define Terrorism:
Because bureaucratic wrangling, arguing and re-writing have solved so much. Here are selections from the Reuters site - enjoy, and don't become too enraged. Great Analysis of this on the Counterterrorism Blog.

"Yet several nations, including Cuba, Sudan, Syria as well as the Palestinians, want to renegotiate parts of the document settled in sub-groups, diplomats said."
I thought we didn't negotiate with terrorists or terrorist nations. Guess the U.N. has a different policy.

"On terrorism, the draft deletes a definition that would describe deliberate killings of civilians as unjustified."
Wonder who negotiated this change (see list of thugs above).

"U.N. Secretary-General Kofi Annan and Western nations want to move executive control from the General Assembly to the U.N. secretariat, run by Annan, but with tighter auditing. However, developing states that have a majority in the assembly want to keep control of the budget."
Annan in control of the auditing? That's like putting Kennedy in control of an AA meeting.

"But the United States has resisted some language that would obligate it to increase foreign aid, which developing nations see as an exchange for U.N. reforms and human rights."
Because paying corrupt governments has always led to greater human rights. When did we become the World Bank? And why are we the only ones paying into it?

CNN - Fact vs. Fiction:
The Katrina coverage on the CNN homepage veers from Bush-blaming to race-baiting. Maybe the poll numbers were so different between whites and blacks because of the irresponsible reporting during the past week.
Here is a great analysis of the real relief time frame.
*Note to media: this link contains facts about people who actually provided relief, not people who just talked about it. Read at your own risk.

L.A. Blackout:
The TV talkers couldn't mention "terrorism" enough when this story broke.

Sharpton Loses Dem Support:
Al, Al, Al. First he says Virginia Fields, a black woman, isn't a true "black empowerment" candidate. Then he supports Fernando Ferrer for mayor. Then Ferrer loses 36% of potential voters.

Great Words:
"Senators Lugar and Bayh talked of my boyhood back home in Indiana. I think all of us retain, from the days of our youth, certain enduring images. For me those images are of the endless fields of Indiana, stretching to the horizon, punctuated only by an isolated silo or a barn. And as I grew older, those endless fields came to represent for me the limitless possibilities of our great land.
Growing up, I never imagined that I would be here, in this historic room, nominated to be the chief justice. But now that I am here, I recall those endless fields with their promise of infinite possibilities, and that memory inspires in me a very profound commitment.
If I am confirmed, I will be vigilant to protect the independence and integrity of the Supreme Court, and I will work to ensure that it upholds the rule of law and safeguards those liberties that make this land one of endless possibilities for all Americans." ~ (Future Chief Justice of the United States) John Roberts

9/11

2005-09-11T16:33:00.000-04:00

We must not forget that Patriots have died
And children have struggled and widows have cried
For the sake of this country, Democracy's home
A nation far greater than Egypt or Rome.

A nation whose promise has called 'cross the sea
And beckoned to all men who longed to be free
To the masses escaping tyrannical hell
To the outcast, the hunted, afraid to rebel.

Come to this land, kept safe and serene
By Soldiers and Sailors, Airmen and Marines
Where the lion and lamb together can be
Where the greatest assurance is peace, liberty.

On one fateful morning this promise was questioned
And we, as Americans, know now we are destined
To rise up together, defend what is right
And silence this menace - this thief in the night.

To the evil destroyers in far, distant lands
To the treasonous traitors in treacherous bands
To the pseudo-Americans who question this fight
For the fear and the terror that have taken flight.

These people united here never will cower
No matter what happens to buildings or towers
For we shall stand strong in the path of our Lord
And defend this great nation with Justice's sword.

For we'll never forget the Heroes who've died
And we'll always remember the tears we have cried
For these states United, forever shall be
The home of the Brave and the land of the Free.
~ Nicole A., 9/12/01

What's the Word? 9/9/05

2005-09-09T06:37:00.000-04:00

Here are the top stories for Friday, September 9, 2005:
Hurricane Updates: FEMA Directors "Unprepared"- aka, It's All Bush's Fault; Please Leave the City...Please; Congress Approves $51.8 B; FBI Issues Katrina Scam Alert; Laura Says Racism Charges "Disgusting"
News: Assassination Plot Thwarted; Governator to Veto Illegal Licenses; Sandy "the Burglar" Berger fined $50,000; NY Dems Know Sex Sells
PLUS:
Fahrenheit 8/31? Michael Moore Films Katrina Victims; Pentagon Sponsors 9/11 Freedom Walk
Great Words

FEMA Directors "Unprepared" - aka, It's All Bush's Fault
The Washington Post just jumps right into the accusations on Bush. He staffed FEMA with a bunch of Republican flaks who were lowly leaders of the '00 campaign. The Post doesn't seem to get the tie that these people worked under and learned from "veterans," and only came to their posts after these "veterans" left for private sector jobs (gasp - they left government employ for the private sector? There must be a conspiracy there.). I worked the campaign - I guess I'm the only one who didn't get a big government job. Get a grip, WP.
Please Leave the City...Please
The voluntary evacuations are almost over. Mr. Mayor, Madam Governor, whoever is in charge, if you want them out, get them out. Nagin has declared mandatory evacuations. Blanco has said she's the only one who can enforce that order. More on this later, but shouldn't they know who's in charge by now?
Congress Approves $51.8 B
FBI Issues Katrina Scam Alert-
No, not regarding the crazy comments from Democrats.
Laura Says Racism Charges "Disgusting"-
Because she's too much of a lady to really tell off West, Jackson, and company.

Assassination Plot Thwarted:
The poor, innocent lamb was mistreated. After he took part in 9/11 plans, tried to set up al Qaida safehouses in Virginia, and plotted to either shoot or blow-up the President. Yeah, we're the bad guys.

Governator to Veto Illegal Licenses:
Good job, Ahnold.

Sandy "The Burglar" Berger Fined $50,000:
Remember this story about Clinton's National Security Advisor? You know, the guy who thought it was o.k to steal from the National Archives by stuffing classified papers into his pants. But he was just disheveled and absent-minded - two traits we want in a national security advisor. Able Danger here, anyone? (Click on the link provided on RealClearPolitics)

NY Dems Know Sex Sells-
No, it's not another wild and crazy night at the Clinton Mansion. But they are redefining "dirty" politics.

PLUS:
Fahrenheit 8/31? Michael Moore Films Katrina Victims-
Thank goodness for Michael Moore! Because we don't know what's happened, and haven't seen any pictures from the Gulf Coast. Who says aid can't be mixed with a little selfish personal propaganda and sickening political purposes?

Pentagon Sponsors 9/11 Freedom Walk-
Even in this article, the anti-war folks get in on the action. Register today if you want to walk on Sunday.

Great Words:
"I know of nothing more silly than to expect 'government' to solve our advanced problems for us. If we have no ideas, how can government have any?" ~ Frank Lloyd Wright

What's the Word? 9/7/05

2005-09-07T06:29:00.000-04:00

Here are the top stories for Wednesday, September 7, 2005:
Hurricane Updates: Mayor Nagin: Everyone Must Go; Water Levels Fall; ... But What's in the Water?;All Crises Are Local
News: Rehnquist Honored; Gay Marriage Bill Passes in CA; West Point Cadets Return; Saddam Confesses to Being a Crazy, Murderous Dictator
PLUS: *Must Read Article - It's not Red vs. Blue, Black vs. White, it's Grey vs. Pink*; Jane Fonda Cancels Bus Tour; Bob Denver (Gilligan) Dies; Great Words

Hurricane Updates:
Mayor Nagin: Everyone Must Go-
Good, the mayor has moved from begging people to leave to making them move. New Orleans is not safe, and the mayor is finally using the troops to clear the city. Decisive action is the only thing that will make this process work.
Water Levels Fall-
The Army Corps of Engineers have the pumps working, and the water's slowly receding.
...But What's in the Water?
All Crises Are Local-
"Government Failure" covers all levels - local, state and national. While the rights of states are diminished, the responsibilities of state leaders are not.

News:
Rehnquist Honored-
Only the best can evoke true emotion in D.C. God bless.

Gay Marriage Bill Passes in CA

West Point Cadets Return-
Despite the reporting, here are 1,200 of the best and brightest.

Saddam Confesses to Being a Crazy, Murderous Dictator-
Enough said.

PLUS:
*Must Read Article - It's not Red vs. Blue, Black vs. White, it's Grey vs. Pink-
Here's a great commentary on the real "colors" that define people. Read it all at once, print it out and read it at home, read portions on the hour, every hour. Just read it! From the Eject!Eject!Eject! blog.

Jane Fonda Cancels Bus Tour-
No, not because she wants to spend her time helping hurricane victims. No, not because she has finally realized her stunts would earn her prison or worse in 80% of the other countries on earth. But because she doesn't want to overshadow fellow extremist Cindy Sheehan. Good to know there are people keeping the anti-war movement going while the rest of us are helping rebuild a city.

Bob Denver (Gilligan) Dies-
Just sit right back and you'll hear a tale, a tale of a fateful trip...

Great Words:
"The world is a dangerous place. Not because of the people who are evil, but because of the people who won't do anything about it." ~ Albert Einstein

CHIEF JUSTICE REHNQUIST DIES

2005-09-03T23:21:00.000-04:00

Chief Justice William Rehnquist died today from throat cancer at his Virginia home...

UPDATING...
Hat tip to Sweet Dan for the breaking news.

The Life of William Rehnquist.

How will the next Chief Justice be chosen?
Who's next? What do we have to look forward to? Here's the lowdown on nominating the next Chief Justice of the United States. (Scary how up-to-date this site is!!)

General History of The Court:
Don't know much about the history? Here it is.
Thanks to Sarah, future legal eagle, for the S.C. info!

The Race Against Race

2005-09-03T08:00:00.000-04:00

The Race Against Race

(Note: Please read the "Hurrican Help" posting to see how you can help the victims. The united blog effort to raise funds has been extended through the weekend - please give. Compassion knows no color.)

Is anyone else wondering what happened to the rest of the Gulf Coast? Given coverage from the media and comments from Jesse Jackson, Kanye West and others, one would think that Hurricane Katrina beat a path to New Orleans - and only New Orleans - for the singular purpose of hurting blacks. And, of course, President Bush should have, and could have, stopped it.

Frankly, I am sick of being called a bigot and racist because I am a white Republican. Millions of people - white and black - have donated money regardless of who the money would help. Americans are donating to Americans in a color-blind outpouring of support and love.

I donated to Catholic Charities, not the Aryan Nation, as Mr. West would have people believe from his rant on NBC last night. These disgraceful comments overshadow the amazing efforts of regular citizens who just want to help.

In Virginia, people raised nearly $400,000 in one day for the relief effort. In Texas, people donating supplies waited in lines and were directed to other relief centers when the warehouse filled to capacity. In Indiana, firefighters collected money as part of their Labor Day fundraising efforts. Radio stations in D.C. held marathons to raise money for the Red Cross. Children are allowed to enroll in Tennessee, Kentucky, and Texas schools, and the D.C. Catholic schools are providing free uniforms and classes for kids impacted by the storm. People are opening up their homes across the nation. These selfless citizens aren't asking the skin color of those they're helping. They're just helping.

Are there massive problems in the Gulf? Yes. Could anyone have expected the enormous scope of the devastation? No.

Let's not forget that the local government and Mayor Nagin could have done much more, like dispatching hundreds of school buses to evacuate people before the storm hit. If FEMA knew what would happen in the days following the storm, they should have had a better rescue and recovery program. But these possibilities are only in the past - there is nothing we can do to change them. The only thing we can do is help now, as best and as much as we can.

Everyone is shocked by the images of the past week. But save the political agendas and personal insecurities for another day. We don't need to be ripped apart at the time when we most need to stand together.

Read a great overview of this situation by Nicholas Stix: New Orleans, and the Hurricane Next Time
Contact NBC at nbcshows@nbcuni.com.

Hurricane Help!

2005-09-03T02:32:00.000-04:00

UPDATED DAILY...
Bloggers keep info coming...Great sites for updates...
Hurricane Help: What you should know, what you can do

Live Blog from New Orleans...
These guys are blogging live from New Orleans. They have pictures, and the real story from citizens staying with their city.
Hat tip to Jason at Generation Why?

UPDATES:
The blog effort has extended to the entire Labor Day weekend. Nearly 2,000 bloggers united to raise funds for relief organizations.
For a full list charities and the bloggers taking part, please visit NZ Bear, and log your donation. The Instapundit site, hosted by Glenn Reynolds and the Technorati Tag are also working hard for this effort.

I gave to the Catholic Charities (lots of Catholics in New Orleans area). Where are you sending donations?

Here are the ways you can help your fellow Americans. Or you can click on any of the links above for more charities. Please, give time, give money, give blood, give food, give prayers.

Charities:
Catholic Charities
FEMA Official Site
American Red Cross
Samaritan's Purse

A great organization called Soldiers' Angels has a special site to help military families who were impacted by the storm.

You can contribute at this address:
Soldier's Angels Foundation
Operation Katrina Relief
1792 East Washington Blvd.
Pasadena, California 91104

We all heard Hurricane Katrina would be bad, but the pictures coming out of the New Orleans area are beyond expectations. The total destruction is staggering, and the full extent of the damages are far from understood. And the water is still rising as looters attack the city and survivors try to find safety.

As Americans, we must help our brothers and sisters in their desperate time of need. Most of us either know someone in the states impacted, or have visited the cities of the Gulf Coast - some of which barely exist now. And for those of us in Washington or New York - cities embraced by the nation after their devastation - it's our turn to help.

Here are the latest news stories on the situation in the south. There are so many stories coming out, that these are local and national news sites with the most in-depth reporting.

Local News:
New Orleans Times-Picayune
Biloxi Sun-Herald
Mobile Register

National News:
Drudge Report
CNN
Fox News
Washington Post

What's The Word? 8/16/05

2005-08-16T06:17:00.000-04:00

Here are the stories for Tuesday, August 16:
Israel Gives Away Gaza, Post Pities Palestinians; Iraqis Still Working on Constitution; Earthquake Hits Japan; Muslim Cleric Deported; Peace-nik Divorced; Pro-"Choice" At Any Price
PLUS: Advice for "Republicans"; Half of Americans Mentally Ill?; End-of-Summer Reading; Great Words

Israel Gives Away Gaza:
How can there be any question that this was a good move, when both Hamas and Islamic Jihad declare this a victory? Those are groups we want to please.

Post Pities Palestinians
Because the innocent Palestinians are the real victims...

Iraqis Still Working on Constitution:
Let's hope democracy in action will really lead to democracy.

Earthquake Hits Japan

Muslim Cleric Deported:
So, the good news is that these potential terrorists are leaving the country. The bad news is that they're being sent to Pakistan. Letting these loons back into the hotbed of terror -THAT'LL stop them.

Peace-nik Divorced:
The Liberal Mother camped outside the Western White House has not only destroyed her credibility, but her marriage, too. Here's an interesting article on the coverage of her protest. Gotta love Texas!

Pro-"Choice" At Any Price:
How many women have to die before abortion is questioned? Death is no reason to pull the abortion pill - that's the original intent, after all.

PLUS:
Advice for "Republicans" -
Some great commentary from the Daily News, urging "Republican" candidates to - shock - actually act like Republicans!

Half of Americans Mentally Ill? -
This explains so much!

End-of-Summer Reading -
Think you know about heroism, sacrifice and the enduring American spirit? Read these great books on WWII, and you'll have renewed appreciation for those who fought for our freedom.
"The Boys of Pointe du Hoc" by Douglas Brinkley
Ties the great Normandy D-Day speech by Reagan with the Rangers who actually climbed the cliffs.
"Band of Brothers" by Stephen Ambrose
Follows the Rangers of Easy Company from Normandy to Hitler's headquarters. Also a great HBO series.
"Flags of Our Fathers" by James Bradley
Tells the incredible story of the Marines on Iwo Jima, and follows the lives of the six Americans pictured in the famous flagraising photo.

Great Words ~
"When you go home
Tell them for us and say
For your tomorrow
We gave our today."
~ Inscription at the Marine cemetery on Iwo Jima

Best of Bill Clinton?

2005-08-15T20:02:00.000-04:00

Bill Clinton, a life in song...

So Bill is putting out a new CD, called "The Bill Clinton Collection: Selections from the Clinton Music Room." While this compilation of music to woo interns by is mostly jazz, here are some suggestions for a follow-up album. Feel free to post your song ideas...but let's keep it clean!

1. "Mrs. Brown You've Got a Lovely Daughter" Herman's Hermits
2. "I Get Around" Beach Boys
3. "Sin Wagon" Dixie Chicks
4. "Smokin' in the Boys' Room" Brownsville Station
5. "Makin' Whoopee" Dr. John
6. "To All the Girls I've Loved Before" Willie Nelson
7. "Hound Dog" Elvis
8. "Sir Hillary's Night Out" On Her Majesty's Secret Service
9. "Fat Bottom Girls" Queen
10."Guilty" Barbra Streisand
11."(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction" Rolling Stones
12."Have A Cigar" Pink Floyd

Here's the story:
http://www.nydailynews.com/front/story/337486p-288209c.html

The Briefing 8/8/05

2005-08-08T06:35:00.000-04:00

Top Stories for Monday, August 8, 2005:

Military Plans for Future Homeland Attacks; Peter Jennings Dead at 67; Shuttle Landing Delayed; U.N. Official Resigns in Oil-for-Food Scandal; Russian Sub Crew Safe; U.S. Embassy in Saudi Arabia Threatened
PLUS: Great Words

Military Plans for Future Homeland Attacks:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2005/08/07/AR2005080700843.html

Peter Jennings Dead at 67:
http://abcnews.go.com/US/story?id=1015438

Shuttle Landing Delayed:
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,165015,00.html

U.N. Official Resigns in Oil-for-Food Scandal
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,165028,00.html

Russian Sub Crew Safe:

U.S. Embassy in Saudi Arabia Threatened:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2005/08/07/AR2005080700279.html

Great Words~
"And they are surely to be esteemed the bravest spirits who, having the clearest sense both of the pains and pleasures of life, do not on that account shrink from danger."
~ Pericles

What's the Word? 8/3/05

2005-08-03T06:50:00.000-04:00

Here are the top stories for Wednesday, August 3:
14 Marines Killed in Iraq Roadside Attack
Astronauts Rock; Democrats Lose Ohio...Again, Crazy Christians in Ohio; Journalist Killed in Iraq
PLUS: American University Prez Dishonest?, Panda Baby, Great Words

14 Marines Killed in Iraq Roadside Attack:
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,164567,00.html

Astronauts Rock:
Ever try to cut a loose thread or fix a broken pipe? Now try it in the vacuum of space, miles from the surface of the earth, underneath a multi-million dollar space shuttle.
http://www.cnn.com/2005/TECH/space/08/03/space.shuttle/index.html

Democrats Lose Ohio...Again:
So the libs spent the last month saying the special election in Ohio would be a "bellwether for 2006." They thought it was a lock - their guy just returned from Iraq to run for Congress.
Maybe they just didn't want to vote for a Democrat. Or maybe the voters didn't like the fact that Hackett, the Dem, called Bush a "chicken-hawk S.O.B." in an interview.
http://www.usatoday.com/news/states/2005-08-02-election-roundup_x.htm
Crazy Christians in Ohio:
Any coincidence that this article shows up on the same day a Republican wins a close election?
http://www.usatoday.com/news/washington/2005-08-02-christian-cover_x.htm

Journalist Killed in Iraq

PLUS:
Well, at least I can tell my parents where all that tuition money went - to an engagement party and $100 bottles of wine.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2005/08/02/AR2005080201947.html

Panda Baby -
It's a boy!
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2005/08/02/AR2005080201013.html

Great Words ~
"For these men are lately drawn from the ways of peace. They fight not for the lust of conquest. They fight to end conquest. They fight to liberate. They fight to let justice arise, and for tolerance and good will among all Thy people. They yearn but for the end of battle, for their return to the haven of home.
Some will never return. Embrace these, Father, and receive them, Thy heroic servants, into Thy kingdom."
~ President F.D. Roosevelt, D-Day prayer for the nation 6/6/44

The Briefing 8/1/05

2005-08-01T08:00:00.000-04:00

The Briefing 8/1/05
PLUS: Warrior Poets

Saudi Arabia's King Fahd Dies in Riyadh
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2005/08/01/AR2005080100138.html

Recess Appointment for Bolton?
Even on vacation, the Libs try to obstruct the Prez.
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,164313,00.html

Shuttle Crew May Attempt Repairs
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2005/07/31/AR2005073100080.html

Warrior Poets:
"We're fortunate in being Americans. At least we don't step on the underdog. I wonder if that's because there are no 'Americans' - only a stew of immigrants - or if it's because the earth from which we exist has been so kind to us and our forefathers; or if it's because the 'American' is the offspring of the logical European who hated oppression and loved freedom beyond life?
Those great mountains and the tall timber; the cool deep lakes and broad rivers; the green valleys and white farmhouses; the air, the sea and wind; the plains and great cities; the smell of living - all must be the cause of it.
And yet, with all that, we can't get away from the rest. For every one of our millions who has that treasure in his hand there's another million crying for that victory of life. And for each of us who wants to live in happiness and give happiness, there's another different sort of person wanting to take it away.
Those people always manage to have their say, and Mars is always close at hand. We know how to win wars. We must learn now to win peace... If I ever have a son, I don't want him to go through this again, but I want him powerful enough that no one will be fool enough to touch him. He and America should be strong as hell and kind as Christ."
~ Lt. Thomas Meehan, C.O. Easy Company, 101st Airborne, WWII
Killed on D-Day

What's the Word? 7/29/05

2005-07-29T07:43:00.000-04:00

Here are the top stories for Friday, July 29, 2005:
RAID, POSSIBLE EXPLOSIONS IN LONDON; RADIO HOST SUSPENDED; Profiling? Fuhgedaboutit; Frist Backs Stem Cell Research;
PLUS: Great Words

RAID, POSSIBLE EXPLOSIONS IN LONDON

RADIO HOST SUSPENDED:
Conservative radio host, Michael Graham, has been suspended without pay for comments he made last week. After the second round of London bombings Graham discussed terrorism and religious ties (including Christianity and the Klan, etc.), and concluded by saying that Isalm was a terrorist organization. He has now been taken off the air for exercising his freedom of speech.
Ironically, the WMAL studios sit just miles from where Islamic schools teach geography with a map that has no Israel. Graham's show was broadcast to D.C., where Sen. Durbin and other religious bigots question Catholics about their personal beliefs as part of a job interview. While Imams in London, Washington state, and Michigan preach hate and jihad against the West, this American citizen has been silenced for speaking his mind.
http://wmal.com/listingsEntry.asp?ID=354097&PT=NEWS

Profiling? Fuhgedaboutit:
Great commentary from a New Yorker.
http://www.latimes.com/news/opinion/commentary/la-oe-gelernter29jul29,0,5170828.story

Frist Backs Stem Cell Research:
Way to hold the line on pro-life issues, Senator.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2005/07/29/AR2005072900158.html

PLUS:

"What we obtain too cheap, we esteem too lightly...it would be strange indeed if so celestial an article as freedom should n ot be highly rated." ~ Thomas Paine

The Briefing 7/28/05

2005-07-28T07:45:00.000-04:00

Top stories for 7/28/05:
Plus: First '08 Cartoon; Great Words

NASA Shuttle Fleet Grounded:
http://www.cnn.com/2005/TECH/space/07/28/space.shuttle/index.html

EU Appeases Nuclear Iran:
http://www.usatoday.com/news/world/2005-07-27-eu-iran_x.htm

CAFTA Bill Passes, 217-215:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2005/07/27/AR2005072701195.html

London Updates - More Bombings Were Planned:
http://abcnews.go.com/WNT/LondonBlasts/story?id=979905

Libs Try to Tie Bolton with CIA Leak:
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,163883,00.html

Pataki, '08?
http://www.nydailynews.com/front/story/332291p-283932c.html

Iraq Vets Run for Congress:
http://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/2005-07-27-dems-iraq-vets_x.htm

PLUS:
The first cartoon for the 2008 election! Move over JibJab!
http://www.michaelhodges.com/stuff/funny/2008cc1.swf

"It is not because things are difficult that we do not dare - it is because we do not dare that they are difficult." ~ Lucius Annaeus Seneca

River Kwai Remix

2005-07-26T07:43:00.000-04:00

"The president had an opportunity to unite the country with his Supreme Court nomination, to nominate an individual in the image of Justice Sandra Day O'Connor. Instead, by putting forward John Roberts' name, President Bush has chosen a more controversial nominee and guaranteed a more controversial confirmation process." - Sen. Dick Durbin, D-Ill

Sen. Durbin, (D-Taliban) has moved on from attacking our soldiers to attacking our judges. But although the senator would rather move on with his latest vendetta, let's follow up on his irresponsible statements and unfounded claims regarding Gitmo.

Durbin went to the floor of the Senate with faulty information. The memo he used was not verified by the FBI. Fellow senators tried to call him off, warning him that the claims may not be true.

But he didn't care about the facts. He didn't care about the soldiers. He only cared about making headlines and helping his own political career.

Durbin lied, military honor died.

He and his comrades have relentlessly attacked Bush for having faulty information on the war and making false claims. Yet, our steely-eyed allies, the British, verified and continue to stand by the pre-war intel.

But the facts show the Durbin memo was untrue. He did not even try to verify the venomous statements he so carelessly spewed. And still there's no true apology, except to those who "misunderstood" his statements as attacking the OTHER people at Gitmo (and we know he would never attack the terrorists there, which leaves only Americans).

Below are three articles on the Durbin disgrace. You can read about the false documents, the false apology and the false statements plaguing Gitmo and the soldiers there. You can also read my original posting, Cry Me A River Kwai, written when Durbin was just a suspected liar but still a definite traitor.

Durbin Claims False:
http://washingtontimes.com/national/20050718-122024-7366r.htm
Durbin Apologizes, but only because those redneck, red-state, gun-toting, backwards, Christian conservatives made his statements an issue. THAT'S the real problem according to the Washington Post, not what Durbin said.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2005/06/21/AR2005062101654.html
Five Myths of Gitmo:
http://www.usatoday.com/news/opinion/editorials/2005-07-19-gitmo-myths_x.htm

Capitol Hill is a dangerous place. It can turn good men into bad politicians, helpful ideas into malignant programs, and ignorant comments into international crisis. It can cause Senators to speak when they should listen, and accuse when they should repent. It can also create partisan hacks where great leaders once stood.

Take Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL), for example. He has recently taken to criticizing places he has never been - like Guantanamo Bay - and endangering people he could never hope to live up to - our American soldiers. So, while some elected officials speak without questioning and attack without understanding, let us deal only in reality.

Fact 1: America is at war. This nation is fighting an enemy and ideology that hates us and what we stand for. Period. There is no negotiating with ruthless killers who would rather strap bombs to their children than talk about diversity. There is no appeasing terrorists hell-bent upon enslaving women, destroying progress, and dragging the entire free world back to the dregs of the Middle Ages. There is no asking politely about plots against this and other countries, or pleading for some timely answers. There is only resolve through commitment, courage in war, and victory over terror. That is the only way.

Fact 2: America was founded upon great words, coupled with great actions. This nation declared independence, and then defeated the most powerful empire on the planet. The leaders of the nation at that time not only spoke the words of conviction, but pledged their lives in support of their cause. They realized that their words had consequences, and were prepared to face them.

While the world has changed in many ways since 1776, the influence of words remains. Our senators should remember that, as they make so many statements in this time of peril. War is not to be discussed lightly - statements reflect upon this nation, impact those dedicated to protecting it, resonate throughout the country and echo across the globe. To forget this power is to degrade the influence of our greatest documents. When used irresponsibly by those who should know better, the pen can be just as deadly as the sword.

Fact 3: America is protected by warriors, not orators. The freedoms of speech and the press - indeed, the very rights which allow Senators to speak so freely - are guaranteed only by our strong republic. And that republic remains strong, and free, because of our military. While these brave service members fight for the best ideals of humanity, war zones are not defined by humane practices.

Some necessary actions may offend the sensibilities of those who know only peace. But in order to overcome those who would rather wage war, tactics must be viewed in the context of that war. And America sends the best men and women to defeat the worst enemies of liberty. The pride and mettle found within our troops only come in men willing to die for God and country. Military families hope for peace more than any other group, for theirs is a complete sacrifice. But when wars come, and come they will, hope shares the heart with honor and courage.

But Sen. Durbin does not understand the character of our military. He would rather liken them to the most brutal forces of our time. How dare a United States senator utter the Nazis, the Soviets, Pol Pot, and our American servicemen in the same breath, let along on the floor of the Senate?

Never mind that it was our military that fought those horrific murderers. Never mind that it was our soldiers who battled and bled and died on the altar of freedom.

Washington is filled with monuments to these selfless heroes. Maybe the officials who spend so much time at fundraisers and receptions should take an hour some summer evening and pause at the reflecting pool of the World War II memorial. Or see their reflections in the black marble of the Vietnam Wall. Or feel the heavy silence amidst the white headstones of Arlington. Or hear the American flag flapping in the wind atop the Iwo Jima monument.

Tearful apologies can not erase appalling words of disrespect. History is littered with mercenaries and cowards. The future is built by victors and heroes.

Perhaps if the Illinois senator is so taken by clever historical links, he should think of this one: Benedict Arnold, Neville Chamberlain, Dick Durbin.

No Blueberries in Baseball

2005-07-25T07:44:00.000-04:00

Hope you all (or y'all for the folks in Texas) had a great weekend!
Here are some thoughts on a weird weekend in Washington. And we'll have another posting on Sen. Durbin (D-Taliban) tomorrow.

No Blueberries in Baseball...
So I'm at the Nationals game on Sunday, enjoying a great afternoon at the ballpark. Baseball is back in D.C. - a chance for the stressed-out, super-political people be normal for once and root for their home team.
Or so you would think.
It was a good summer game. Forget work. Forget networking. But we forgot we were in D.C.
Case in point - the four yuppies sitting behind us were "political reporters," the first bad sign. They started talking about their editors, social inequality, college courses, childhood nicknames...boring crap that no one cares about, but because of their vocal volume everyone heard.
And the guys were worse than the girls - the classic surprise for people new to D.C. Men yammer on about their beauty regimen and their feelings with annoying and frightening regularity. It's not unusual for D.C. - it's just weird for people who expect men to be, um, men (again, you Texans know what to expect).
So these less-than-manly-men get to the 9th inning, and were hungry - anyone within five rows knew it.
But instead of getting up and getting baseball food - hot dogs, beer, ice cream, the regular stuff you eat at a game - one guy hands the other...I'm not kidding...a tin of blueberries.
If we were in the Bronx, they would have been kicked out or beaten up.
I'm all for healthy eating. The healthier we are, the longer we live, and the more time we have to annoy liberals.
But guys, leave the Martha Stewart packaging and Richard Simmons diet at home and have some fun.
The only time the game got loud and had the fans on their feet was in the bottom of the 13th - when only the true baseball fans were left - and the Nats had a chance to shut Houston down.
But most of the blueberry-toting Washingtonians who populated the first half of the game showed up in the third inning, and left in the ninth. No doubt they were fatigued from the heat, and had to wash off the stench of the proletariat.
Now, the last ballgame I went to was at Yankee Stadium, July 1, 2004. Yankees v. Boston...13 innings...Jeter makes "the Dive" into the third-base seats...you live and die with each pitch...Yankees win sometime near midnight...the Stadium goes crazy.
The Nats rocked. They're a scrappy bunch who fit the 14th inning fans and I love them.
But yesterday's outing in D.C. ranked somewhere between a conference call and a game of croquet in the Hamptons.

Weekend Update

2005-07-23T07:43:00.000-04:00

Here's what's going on for Saturday, July 23, 2005:
Egypt Hotel Bombings; Note to NYCLU; Latest SC Stupidity
PLUS: Crazy Grannies; Musical Remix; Lance; Weekend Baseball; Great Words

Egypt Hotel Bombings:
Several car bombs destroyed an Egyptian resort and market at 1:15 a.m. It's not just hard-working Westerners anymore. Apparently sleeping vacationers are also targets.
http://www.cnn.com/2005/WORLD/meast/07/23/egypt.explosions/index.html

Note To NYCLU:
How can you not love the Daily News writers? They write what most New Yorkers want to say!
http://www.nydailynews.com/front/story/330738p-282589c.html

Latest SC Stupidity:
I understand Mr. Broder's point here. We want SC justices who understand the impact of the laws they interpret.
But saying John Roberts lacks a "human element" because he has been a successful lawyer...well, let's apply that reasoning.
Mr. Broder, would you say the liberal professors corrupting our university systems lack a "human element" because many of them have done nothing but go to schools, teach in schools, and publish research with other professors at other schools? No, you'd say they were essential to expanding thought in America.
Mr. Broder, would you say career politicians lack a "human element" because they've been consumed by popularity contests, personal ambition and political drive all their lives? No, you'd say they were robbed of an election in 2000 and the victims of dirty tricks in 2004.
Success is not dehumanizing - jealousy of success is.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2005/07/22/AR2005072201628.html

Crazy Grannies:
Ok, so I love my grandparents for many reasons. Two of their best traits are that they are not selfish or senile. Unlike the grannies in these stories.
That's right - I just called these grandmothers selfish and senile.
Ladies, if you have a political statement to make then write letters, petition lawmakers and donate to campaigns. Don't harass the soldiers you claim to care about. And don't bother the Pentagon with your stupid attempts at social commentary. They have more important things to do.
Unlike good cheese and wine, these women did not grow better with age. They just turned rotten and bitter.
http://www.cnn.com/2005/US/07/22/raging.grannies.ap/index.html

Musical Remix -
Want to see Jamie Foxx, Beyonce, Will Ferrell and Uma Thurman in the movies this fall? Then get ready to see award-winning musicals - they're not just for romantics anymore.
http://www.usatoday.com/life/movies/news/2005-07-21-musical-movies_x.htm

Lance -
This guy's amazing.
http://www.mercurynews.com/mld/mercurynews/sports/12202615.htm

Weekend Baseball-
What are the boys of summer up to today?
http://mlb.mlb.com/NASApp/mlb/index.jsp

Great Words ~
"Nothing that is worth knowing can be taught." ~ Oscar Wilde

What's the Word? 7/22/05

2005-07-22T07:01:00.000-04:00

Here are the top stories for Friday, July 22, 2005:
London Updates - Suspect Shot and Killed, Mosque Bomb Threat, Blair Press Conference; Subway Bag Checks in NYC; Condi Rocks!; Smuggling Tunnel in Washington State; Ruling in Backwards Immigration Story
PLUS: Reviews - Bad News Bears, The Island; Trump Takes on U.N.; We're Havin' a Heat Wave; Great Words

LONDON UPDATE -
Suspect Shot and Killed:
One of the four terrorists on the loose from yesterday's failed bombings tried again to get into the underground. London anti-terror police, ordered to shoot to kill, told him to stop and then shot him six times when he tried to run into the station.
One down, three to go.
http://www.sky.com/skynews/article/0,,30000-1189920,00.html
Mosque Bomb Threat:
It was only a matter of time. Terrorists don't care about innocents of any race or creed. They don't think about how their fanatical actions portray their religion, in whose name they kill.
http://www.usatoday.com/news/world/2005-07-22-london_x.htm
Blair Press Conference:
Blair and Howard take on terror. Despite the ignorance of the press questions, both men say what needs to be said. The U.S. is lucky to count England and Australia as friends. More on the resolve of our mission and our allies to come...
http://www.number-10.gov.uk/output/Page7969.asp

Subway Bag Checks in NYC:
Yes, it's annoying. No, we don't want the hassle. But I'd rather be frustrated than dead.
http://www.nydailynews.com/front/story/330467p-282344c.html

Condi Rocks!
Protecting the media and telling the Sudanese how to behave.
Condi in '08!
http://asia.news.yahoo.com/050721/ap/d8bfu3300.html

Smuggling Tunnel in Washington State:
Yeah, our borders are secure.
http://www.cnn.com/2005/US/07/21/border.tunnel/index.html

Ruling in Backwards Immigration Story:
A few days ago we had a story on four illegals who were stopped at the Canadian border while on a class trip. After three years, a judge in Arizona has ruled that the students cannot be deported because their rights were violated by the border agents. All four plan to become citizens.
But why bother? Are their families planning to be legal, to?
The bigger story is in a quote from one of the Wilson Four, "'In Arizona, everyone's Hispanic; no one would question your status,' she quoted the official as telling her. 'But here in Buffalo, someone was going to ask questions.'"
Everyone's Hispanic in Arizona...wouldn't that point to some sort of border problem?! Arizona is part of the U.S., right? The U.S. has laws and lawmakers, right?
What do you think, Sen. McCain? Perhaps you and your potential running mates should represent and protect your legal, voting constituents, instead of prepping your political futures.
http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/nation/la-na-honor22jul22,0,6749421.story?coll=la-home-headlines

PLUS:

Reviews -
Just go see one of the good movies already out.
The Bad News Bears
http://www.usatoday.com/life/movies/reviews/2005-07-21-bad-news-bears_x.htm
The Island
http://www.usatoday.com/life/movies/reviews/2005-07-21-the-island_x.htm

Trump Takes on U.N. -
Maybe The Donald should be our next U.N. ambassador!
http://www.nydailynews.com/front/story/330503p-282371c.html

We're Havin' a Heat Wave!
http://www.weather.com/newscenter/fcstsummary.html?from=wxcenter_news

Great Words ~
"We stand for freedom. That is our conviction to ourselves; that is our only commitment to others." ~ John F. Kennedy

LONDON ATTACKED AGAIN

2005-07-21T09:55:00.000-04:00

BREAKING NEWS… Reports of Three Subway Explosions and a Bus Explosion… London Underground Evacuated… No Chemical Traces Found… London Police Chase Suspect… Armed Police Enter Hospital…
http://www.sky.com/skynews/article/0,,30000-1189833,00.html

FYI... In New Jersey this weekend, radio reports said hospitals were to be on a higher state of alert after suspicious people were seen trying to enter emergency rooms as staff. Any connection with the threats?

PM Blair to speak at 10:00 a.m. ET…
Once again, Blair is the right man at the right time for England.
"We know why these incidents are done. They are done to frighten people, to make them anxious and worried. Fortunately in this instance there appears to have been no casualties. We have just got to react calmly."
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2005/07/21/AR2005072100818_pf.html

Two weeks to the day since the last London attack...

Briton Held As Suspect in 7/7 London Bombings
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/pages/live/articles/news/news.html?in_article_id=356565&in_page_id=1770

Live Coverage From CNN
http://www.cnn.com/2005/WORLD/europe/07/21/london.tube/index.html

What's the Word? 7/20/05

2005-07-20T06:53:00.000-04:00

Here are the top stories for Wednesday, July 20, 2005:
Supreme Court; Father of Terror; Oh, Canada; Iraq Body Count?; Emily in Texas
PLUS:
Soldier Blog, Adopt a Soldier, Great Words

Supreme Court:
Let's see how a highly respected judge and successful lawyer is attacked for following the constitution and representing his clients.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2005/07/19/AR2005071900725.html
A good analysis of John G. Roberts and the nomination.
But here's a great quote from Teddy Kennedy:"No nominee, especially a nominee who is well known to have argued ideological positions on issues important to the American people, should be confirmed without full and candid disclosure and discussion of those positions and their importance to him." Of course there will be disclosure and discussion! And lawyers don't advocate their personal, ideological positions - they argue on behalf of their clients and represent the law.
You know, the law that says it's illegal to drive drunk and drown people.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2005/07/19/AR2005071901946.html

Father of Terror:
So now we know that insanity and blind rage are genetic traits. The father of Mohamed Atta, homicidal maniac and terrorist who flew a plane into the World Trade Center, praises both the London and New York attacks, and hopes to help finance similar bombings. The guy doesn't even know his own age. Yeah, it would be better to beg these guys for peace and try to understand their pain.
http://www.cnn.com/2005/WORLD/meast/07/19/atta.father.terror/index.html

Oh, Canada:
Leave it to the Liberals to keep border patrol agents unarmed. Because big hats, red jackets and tall, black boots will stop a bullet.
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,163042,00.html

Iraq Body Count?
An unconfirmed report from an unknown agency. Let's put it in the newspaper!
http://www.usatoday.com/news/world/2005-07-20-civilian-deaths_x.htm
But the L.A. Times is serious. These unfounded reports are serious, people!
http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/iraq/la-fg-iraq20jul20,0,232508.story?coll=la-home-headlines

Emily in Texas:
Watch out Texas! Cover the bluebells, rust-proof the guns and trade in the boots for galoshes!
http://www.weather.com/newscenter/tropical/

PLUS:
A Soldier Blog -
Right from the source. Lots of great info and links.
http://www.iraqwarnews.net/

Adopt a Soldier! -
Let them know how much we appreciate their sacrifices!
http://soldiersangels.homestead.com/

Great Words -
"Evil is powerless if the good are unafraid." ~ Ronald Reagan

What's the Word? 7/19/05

2005-07-19T07:08:00.000-04:00

Here are the top stories for Tuesday, July 19, 2005:
General Westmoreland; U.S. Shares Nuke Tech with India; Bush Meets SC Candidates; Backwards Immigration Story; Hillary Times Two
PLUS: Al Gore Launches TV Netw...zzzzzz;'Sopranos' Update; Great Words

General Westmoreland Dies:
He fought in North Africa, Sicily and Europe during WWII. He commanded the U.S. forces in Vietnam. And he battled the American media for decades, for their disgraceful misrepresentation of his dedication and the duty of his soldiers.
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,162908,00.html

U.S. Shares Nuke Tech with India:
Nukes, nukes everywhere. What do you think on this one?
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2005/07/18/AR2005071801646.html

Bush Meets SC Candidates
FYI, a "right-wing" candidate will destroy the rights of Americans. But someone who is not conservative - aka a moderate or liberal - will protect the freedoms of the nation and safeguard the country from those crazy pro-lifers.
One more time, for Sen. Reid: The Court does not serve a political master, but the rule of law.
If your beliefs are - what's the word... - illegal and constitutionally devoid of any basis in law, maybe you should rethink your stances.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2005/07/18/AR2005071801252.html

Backwards Immigration Story:
Here's a story in the L.A. Times about four high schoolers who were brought to the U.S. illegally as children. Yes, this is a nation of immigrants - but if that statement refers to the millions who entered in the early 20th century through Ellis Island and other ports, then it should be revised. This is a nation of legal immigrants. As it should be again.
These kids are excellent students and no doubt are in a difficult spot. But perhaps, instead of rushing to get through college and get married during the three years of deportation hearings, they should have taken the citizenship test.
Here are some questions the crack reporter for the L.A. Times should have asked: Are the parents, also illegal, being deported? Why it is taking three years to get four people deported? How can customs justify going after these four, while allowing repeat criminals who are also illegal go free?
Yes, Mr. Dean, the Republicans are making immigration an issue. But only because it is one.
http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/nation/la-na-honor19jul19,0,1370880.story?page=1&coll=la-home-headlines

Hillary Times Two:
Looking Tough on Defense -
There she goes again. It seems Hillary only has to answer to the record she's built since being in the Senate. Forget her work against the military and active dislike for service members while in the White House. That stuff doesn't count.
http://www.usatoday.com/news/washington/2005-07-18-hillary-cover_x.htm
Campaigning for the Hispanic Vote -
What do you think of illegal immigration, Hillary? Now tell Texas, Arizona, New Mexico, Nevada, So. Cal., etc.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2005/07/18/AR2005071801530.html

PLUS:
Al Gore Launches TV Netw...zzzzzzz - Gore's combining his first invention, the internet, with his new TV network. Using quotes such as, "Appearing relaxed and confident, Gore dove with aplomb into the pitchman phase of his new career as a budding media baron," and "Gore hoped that his famed ease with technological issues..." the story breathlessly awaits the launch of the San Francisco-based network.
Oh, and it's non-partisan...
http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/nation/la-na-gore19jul19,0,7069025.story?coll=la-home-headlines

'Sopranos Update' - What's the best way to remember a line when shooting a top-rated HBO show? If you're James Gandolfini, it's putting your fist through a window.
http://www.nydailynews.com/front/story/329373p-281480c.html

Great Words -
"Do not fear the enemy, for your enemy can only take your life. It is far better that you fear the media for they will steal your honor." ~ Bobby McBride, Crew Chief, 128th Assault Helicopter Company, RVN 1969-1970

What's the Word? 7/15/05

2005-07-15T06:28:00.000-04:00

Here are the stories for Friday, July 15, 2005:

U.S. Educated Terror Suspect Arrested in Cairo; Karl Rove (Case Closed?); China Prepared to Go Nuclear; Supreme Court Update; Support for Bin Laden Down; Politics of Race
Plus: Yeah, the Yankees Rock; Movie Reviews; Weekend Weather; Great Words

U.S. Educated Terror Suspect Arrested in Cairo:
Explosives found in Leeds apartment link "The Chemist" to London attacks.
http://www.cnn.com/2005/WORLD/europe/07/15/london.attacks/index.html

Karl Rove (Case Closed?):
So it turns out Rove's source was in the media... Does anyone else find it ironic that the source for this story is speaking in anonymity because he/she is leaking grand jury testimony? Wilson, MoveOn, and the rest of the usual suspects want info leakers to be fired... D.C. would be a ghost town if they got their way! Let's hope D.C. ignores these folks, just like the voting public did in 2004.
Also, three points for the A.P. in their next article:
1) The article says Wilson "traveled to Africa to check bogus claims of alleged nuclear material sales to Iraq." The actual claim in the 2003 State of the Union was: "The British government has learned that Saddam Hussein recently sought significant quantities of uranium from Africa." Not "sold" but "sought." And the British still stand by that fact.
(You can read it yourself - it's a great speech written by some of the best writers around: http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2003/01/20030128-19.html)
2) The article says Rove spoke with the reporters "in an effort to discredit some of Wilson's allegations." Yeah, allegations that were already discredited! Wilson claimed he went at the personal directive of the VP - a complete lie, as Cheney had no involvement in Wilson's (rogue?) mission.
3) "Wilson acknowledged his wife was no longer in an undercover job at the time Novak's column first identified her. 'My wife was not a clandestine officer the day that Bob Novak blew her identity,' he said." Case closed! The law wasn't broken - she was not a clandestine officer! Her own husband admits it - between rabid and partisan outbursts - much like he did in a Vanity Fair article, in his own book...
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,162583,00.html

China Prepared to Go Nuclear:
Enough said - from a top Chinese general.
http://news.ft.com/cms/s/28cfe55a-f4a7-11d9-9dd1-00000e2511c8.html

Supreme Court Update: Rehnquist Stays
So stop the speculation. The rumors of his resignation have been greatly exaggerated...
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2005/07/14/AR2005071400977.html

Support for Bin Laden Down (mostly):
USA Today report on worldwide attitudes regarding suicide bombing, Bin Laden, terror, etc. If most people associated with the 'Axis of Evil' are peace-loving, what's with some of these numbers? But at least overall views of these terrorist tactics are changing. http://www.usatoday.com/news/world/2005-07-14-suicide-attack-support_x.htm

Politics of Race:
Ken Mehlman apologized yesterday to the NAACP for campaigns during the last century that used race as a factor. It was a kind gesture, and one that needed to be made.
I just hope that his words won't be used against him in the next campaign (i.e. "Republicans admit to being racist").
And I hope the Democrats will issue a similar apology for commercials insinuating votes for Bush would be votes for racial murders, for taking black support for granted, and for 40 years of broken promises.
http://www.usatoday.com/news/washington/2005-07-14-GOP-racial-politics_x.htm

PLUS:
Yeah, the Yankees Rock -
Another victory for the best team in baseball history. Another article from the best sports page in the country.
http://www.nydailynews.com/front/story/328403p-280687c.html

Movie Reviews -
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory:
http://www.calendarlive.com/movies/reviews/cl-et-charlie15jul15,0,226637.story?coll=la-home-headlines

The Wedding Crashers:
http://www.calendarlive.com/movies/reviews/cl-et-wedding15jul15,0,2319198.story?coll=la-home-headlines

Weekend Weather -
Your local forecast, minus the elevator muzak.
http://www.weather.com/index.html

Great Words ~
"We have it in our power to begin the world over again." ~ Thomas Paine

The Media v. Karl Rove

2005-07-13T16:54:00.000-04:00

When I graduated in May with a degree in journalism from a highly respected university, two lessons stuck with me - lessons that say a lot about the current media attacks on Karl Rove.

The first came from a journalism professor, who was also a producer for MSNBC. She assigned stories and angles, mine being how housing developments threatened local irrigation systems. But, try as I did, I could not find one source to back up the claim. In fact, every source (official and 'civilian') said the development helped improve area water systems.

When I reported this back to the professor she said, "Just keep asking. If you interview enough people, you'll find the quote you need."

The second came in an advanced journalism class of 20 students, the week before the 2004 election. We had a mock editorial meeting, where our "paper" had to endorse either Bush or Kerry.

Out of 20 senior journalism students, I was the only one who endorsed Bush. Then I debated the other 19 for an hour on the merits of endorsing him, and wrote the only editorial in Bush's favor.

The morals of these stories? 1) "Facts" can be shaped to fit the story you want to write - it's not really about the news in truth, it's about the truth you want to project. 2) Journalists are partisan, and personal beliefs almost always cloud the objectivity of a story.

But those were simply unfortunate experiences and youthful indiscretions, right? Real journalists have some sort of buffer, filter or editor that would keep their biases from tainting the news, right?

The vendetta carried out by the Mainstream Media against Karl Rove proves that personal politics guide journalists today. Just look at the White House press corps, leading two days of attacks and inquisitions against spokesman Scott McClellan.

Will Bush fire Rove? Will Rove resign? Why couldn't Kerry win the last election against such evil, Darth Vader-like forces who brainwashed the nation and tried to take over the world... (wait, that last one wasn't on the record.)

Let's review... Rove never leaked a name. Wilson, the real question mark in this whole thing, had given the reporter false information and Rove was clarifying the issue. The name and role of the person he supposedly leaked were already public knowledge. The lives of CIA agents were never at risk.

It's not like Rove met the reporter in the corner of a dingy Arlington garage. He didn't set up an intricate system of meeting requests, like maybe putting a red flag in a flower pot or writing secret messages in Cooper's newspaper. He hadn't been passed over for a promotion and therefore wanted to burn his superiors. He wouldn't share classified information during a time of war that would destroy public confidence in the government and demolish the integrity of the nation.

The MSM knows the story they want to write. "The Architect" has cracks in his foundation - let the demolishing begin.

They couldn't defeat Bush in Texas, Florida or Ohio. They couldn't impact the Congressional races or ballot issues. And in each of these elections, Rove was the media-slayer.

Rove did not have a personal agenda when he clarified the story. It was simply the business of setting the record straight.

But the MSM is taking this very personally. Their personal beliefs are clouding the true business of reporting the news.

The story is the one you find, not the one you create. The news is fact, not bias.

It's business, not personal.

The Briefing 7/13/05

2005-07-13T06:39:00.000-04:00

Here are the big stories for Wednesday, July 13, 2005:

Suicide Bombers in London
http://www.sky.com/skynews/article/0,,30000-13385127,00.html

Space Shuttle Launch/Damage
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2005/07/12/AR2005071200135_pf.html

Dangers of a Media Vendetta
http://www.nydailynews.com/news/ideas_opinions/story/327526p-279954c.html

Rove and the White House
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2005/07/12/AR2005071201288_pf.html

American League Wins All-Star Game!
http://espn.go.com/

Heat Wave in the East
http://www.weather.com/index.html

What's the Word? 7/11/05

2005-07-11T10:22:00.000-04:00

Here are the stories for Monday, July 11, 2005:
MoveOn Parties (The Real Story), Secret Source, Exit Strategy?
Plus: Check it Out, Baseball and Summer, An American Hero, Great Words

MoveOn - No, really, please move on!
Only liberals would have sushi at a backyard "barbeque." Do you think they're offended by being called "troops" for their cause? We all know that troops are barbarians like Ghengis Kahn and Pol Pot - just ask Durbin and Kerry.
After you read the rose-colored story by the Washington Post, check out the real story on these liberal "love-fests." Scripts and photo-ops...these folks can't even be themselves when surrounded by fellow liberals!!!
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2005/07/10/AR2005071001180.html
Now, the real story... http://www.drudgereport.com/flash8.htm

Rove: The Secret Source
Keep calm on this one. Rove didn't know her name or her status in the CIA (I'm not calling her by name, for fear of a grand jury indictment.) Think Rove will get any sympathy from the MSM for helping a reporter avoid jail time?
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/8525978/site/newsweek/

Exit Strategy?
This story has been going around for a few days. The war is attacked for not having enough planning and insight, but when possible plans surface the media jump to conclusions of dissent and scandal. Amazing.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2005/07/10/AR2005071000725.html

Check it Out:
A great blog from Matt Lewis, a campaign pro!
http://www.campaignleadership.com/blogger/blog.html

Baseball and Summer:
The All-Star Game is Tuesday night. Although Derek Jeter was snubbed, it should still be a good game. Go American League!
http://mlb.mlb.com/NASApp/mlb/mlb/events/all_star/y2005/index.jsp

An American Hero:(Thanks to Pop-pop for passing this along!)
Monsignor Paul F. Bradley - a hero in every sense of the word. He served the Marines on Iwo Jima in WWII, and the Marines gave him the honors he so greatly deserved. Here's a piece of his story:
The priest said Mass from an altar made from ammo boxes in a shell crater atop Mount Suribachi as the Japanese heaved grenades from nearby caves. Unarmed and helmetless, wearing only a battered green cap with a gold cross on the visor, he followed the infantry as they stormed machine gun nests, sustaining horrible casualties.
Marines take care of their own.
http://www.nj.com/news/ledger/index.ssf?/base/news-1/112088604038660.xml&coll=1

Great Words...
"We make war that we may live in peace."- Aristotle

Amazing Story of Survival!

2005-07-10T12:35:00.000-04:00

An incredible cancer suvivor tells her story. From her personal experiences she knows the possibilities of adult stem cell research, the promises of responsible medicine and the power of prayer. Thanks for sharing your journey and cause with us!
http://www.lafayettejc.com/news20050710/200507103local_opinion1120971836.shtml

What's the Word? 7/10/05

2005-07-10T07:46:00.000-04:00

Here are the stories for Sunday, July 10, 2005:
London, Supreme Court/Media Bias, Iraq/Gitmo, North Korea, Scary Hurricane
Plus: Sunday Comics, Great Words

London
WHY WE LOVE LONDON!
Respect, resolve, resolution...the list goes on. These people carry on the legacy and strength of the Churchill generation.
http://www.thesun.co.uk/article/0,,2-2005310609,00.html
Two women reflecting the strength of Margaret Thatcher in a new time...
http://www.thesun.co.uk/article/0,,2-2005310614,00.html
http://www.thesun.co.uk/article/0,,2-2005310603,00.html
Very interesting and thorough article on Islamic radicals in London. The first few paragraphs also illustrate the arc linking the '98 embassy bombings, 9/ll preparations, the attempted shoe bombing, the murder of Daniel Pearl, and various assassinations with al Qaeda (although the writers seem reluctant to admit that the actual 9/11 attacks are tied - typical). Worth the read.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2005/07/09/AR2005070901390.html?nav=hcmodule

Supreme Court (and the bias of CNN)
Rumors surfaced Friday that Chief Justice Rehnquist wanted to announce his retirement. Here's a great look at the drama playing out in D.C. and on the Court. It's a fair, balanced and informative piece, unlike the next posting... http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,161959,00.html
Why is it that the MSM thinks only conservative judges are activists? Leave it to CNN to write a completely biased piece, "much to the chagrin" of readers who just want the facts. We can take Reid's tired accusations and false piety - he's a liberal, after all. But let's see if CNN does a similar story on concerns ofver radical leftist judges...don't hold your breath... http://www.cnn.com/2005/POLITICS/07/09/dems.radio.ap/index.html

Iraq/Gitmo
Wait...just a second...I thought the Iraqi forces were completely inept and the whole war was a quagmire. But not only are the Iraqi soldiers fighting insurgents, they're kicking some serious terrorist butt with the U.S. Marines!
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2005/07/09/AR2005070901154.html
Ok, so I'm all for being nice to people. Unless, of course, those people are suspected terrorists or radical insurgents dedicated to killing innocent Americans and our military members. Let's remind the Washington Post - we are at war; war is not pretty; people want to kill us; we must win (see 7/9 posting, Cry Me A River Kwai).
Complaining about inadequate health care for prisoners in Iraq and the "torture" used in Gitmo is like complaining about being beheaded with a rusty sword. There's a larger problem than military meanness - like the threat of terrorism - and the overall objective must be weighed with the tactics.
And the last time I checked, we weren't the ones doing the beheading.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2005/07/08/AR2005070802184.html

North Korea and Nukes
Need we say more...
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2005/07/09/AR2005070901136.html

Dennis the Menace
Leave Florida for the haven of Alabama. Never thought you'd say that, did you?
http://www.weather.com/newscenter/tropical/

Sunday Comics:
I don't read the Harry Potter books, but a lot of people do. So, here's the lowdown on the new release.
http://www.nydailynews.com/front/story/326414p-278954c.html
Eeeewww... more creepy info on the Cruise-Holmes trainwreck.
http://www.usatoday.com/life/people/2005-07-08-holmes-chaperone_x.htm
A new baby panda at the National Zoo!
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2005/07/09/AR2005070901380.html
Review: 'Fantastic Four'
http://www.usatoday.com/life/movies/reviews/2005-07-07-fantastic-four_x.htm

Great Words...
"Call upon me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee." ~ Psalms 50:15

What's the Word? 7/9/05

2005-07-09T07:37:00.000-04:00

Here are the stories for Saturday, July 9,2005: London, G-8, Supreme Court, Scary Hurricane
Plus: Think About This, Show Support, Great Words

London:
How are our British friends faring after the barbaric attacks on the underground? With mettle tested through trial, character defined by dignity, and spines of steel. God bless England - a true ally and example to the entire world. http://www.nydailynews.com/front/story/326536p-279142c.html
We now have another group claiming responsibility for the war on London. Three guesses who...
http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=10000085&sid=asWu_C89sOgE&refer=europe
Think these attacks aren't part of the larger War on Terror? http://www.nydailynews.com/front/story/326534p-279135c.html

G-8 (AKA, the generosity of the West)
Hmmm... rock stars can keep "raising awareness" about the poverty in Africa. But it's those darn national leaders who can actually make a difference. Still think America and the West are a bunch of greedy, heartless war mongers? I don't want to hear any more of the constant - and misguided - attacks accusing the "rich" countries of keeping the Third World down.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2005/07/08/AR2005070800214.html

Supreme Court
Just in case there was any confusion, the Supreme Court is now the most influential branch of government, although this government of the people, by the people, and for the people does not elect the judges.
The Republican "leadership" should remember that they won the last election in record numbers. In the coming weeks they'll have to act like winners if they're going to get potential SC appointments through.
The court should not be a political bully pulpit. The second it became one (say, sometime around 1973) justice was no longer blind, except to the original intent of the founders. http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2005/07/08/AR2005070801685.html

Dennis the Menace
Yikes! In case you live in Florida, a word of advice... move.
http://www.weather.com/newscenter/tropical/

Think about this:
Think the politicians are getting out of control? Amen, Peggy Noonan. Rarely can anyone say it better than you!
http://www.opinionjournal.com/columnists/pnoonan/

Show Support:
The Marine Corps Marathon is October 30! Volunteer here: http://www.marinemarathon.com/thevolunteers.php
Support the Troops! Visit the USO site, and see how you can help!
http://www.uso.org/pubs/8_13_18.cfm

Great Words...
"It is important however that those engaged in terrorism realize that our determination to defend our values and our way of life is greater than their determination to cause death and destruction to innocent people in a desire to impose extremism on the world." ~ Tony Blair

Cry Me a River Kwai

2005-07-09T00:22:00.000-04:00

Capitol Hill is a dangerous place. It can turn good men into bad politicians, helpful ideas into malignant programs, and ignorant comments into international crisis. It can cause Senators to speak when they should listen, and accuse when they should repent. It can also create partisan hacks where great leaders once stood.

Take Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL), for example. He has recently taken to criticizing places he has never been – like Guantanamo Bay – and endangering people he could never hope to live up to – our American soldiers. So, while some elected officials speak without questioning and attack without understanding, let us deal only in reality.

Fact 1: America is at war. This nation is fighting an enemy and ideology that hates us and what we stand for. Period. There is no negotiating with ruthless killers who would rather strap bombs to their children than talk about diversity. There is no appeasing terrorists hell-bent upon enslaving women, destroying progress, and dragging the entire free world back to the dregs of the Middle Ages. There is no asking politely about plots against this and other countries, or pleading for some timely answers. There is only resolve through commitment, courage in war, and victory over terror. That is the only way.

Fact 2: America was founded upon great words, coupled with great actions. This nation declared independence, and then defeated the most powerful empire on the planet. The leaders of the nation at that time not only spoke the words of conviction, but pledged their lives in support of their cause. They realized that their words had consequences, and were prepared to face them.

While the world has changed in many ways since 1776, the influence of words remains. Our senators should remember that, as they make so many statements in this time of peril. War is not to be discussed lightly – statements reflect upon this nation, impact those dedicated to protecting it, resonate throughout the country and echo across the globe. To forget this power is to degrade the influence of our greatest documents. When used irresponsibly by those who should know better, the pen can be just as deadly as the sword.

Fact 3: America is protected by warriors, not orators. The freedoms of speech and the press – indeed, the very rights which allow Senators to speak so freely – are guaranteed only by our strong republic. And that republic remains strong, and free, because of our military.

While these brave service members fight for the best ideals of humanity, war zones are not defined by humane practices. Some necessary actions may offend the sensibilities of those who know only peace. But in order to overcome those who would rather wage war, tactics must be viewed in the context of that war. And America sends the best men and women to defeat the worst enemies of liberty.

The pride and mettle found within our troops only come in men willing to die for God and country. Military families hope for peace more than any other group, for theirs is a complete sacrifice. But when wars come, and come they will, hope shares the heart with honor and courage.

But Sen. Durbin does not understand the character of our military. He would rather liken them to the most brutal forces of our time. How dare a United States senator utter the Nazis, the Soviets, Pol Pot, and our American servicemen in the same breath, let along on the floor of the Senate?

Never mind that it was our military that fought those horrific murderers. Never mind that it was our soldiers who battled and bled and died on the altar of freedom.

Washington is filled with monuments to these selfless heroes. Maybe the officials who spend so much time at fundraisers and receptions should take an hour some summer evening and pause at the reflecting pool of the World War II memorial. Or see their reflections in the black marble of the Vietnam Wall. Or feel the heavy silence amidst the white headstones of Arlington. Or hear the American flag flapping in the wind atop the Iwo Jima monument.

Tearful apologies can not erase appalling words of disrespect. History is littered with mercenaries and cowards. The future is built by victors and heroes.

Perhaps if the Illinois senator is so taken by clever historical links, he should think of this one: Benedict Arnold, Neville Chamberlain, Dick Durbin.

In the Beginning...

2005-07-09T00:07:00.000-04:00

This is the first post to Let the Word Go Forth... You'll be able to find my commentary on current events, especially relating to politics and international relations, as well as news links and other info.

The only way to prepare for the future is to learn from the past. So you'll also be able to find quotes and speeches from some of the greatest leaders in history.

Have fun, and can't wait to hear your opinions!

Let The Word Go Forth...

Stars and Stripes Forever

Final Four!

Michigan Mania

Immigration Outrage

The Mettle of a Marine

Remembering Reagan's Revolutionaries

TGIF!

Of Mice and Men

Coming Soon...

'05's Big Five Inspirational Leaders

'05's Big Five Crazy Liberal Quotes

Year in Review

Merry Christmas!

New York, New York

Intelligent Design

Thank you, Mr. President!

One Week...

Mightier Than the Pen

Vikings vs. Iran

'White Flag' Air War

A Very 'Kerry' Christmas

"Backdrop" to History

Presidential Power

Where have you gone, Joe DiMaggio?

With A Vengeance

Happy Thanksgiving!

Holiday Movie Review

One Worth Fighting For

Post Blows CIA Cover...Again

Checks and the Unbalanced

Dean Denies Reality

Uncommon Valor Was a Common Virtue

Semper Fidelis

Nero Tolerance Policy

Election Turn-Out

Leathernecks vs. Pencil-necks

The Peanut Gallery

Fighting French?

Bring It On.

Boo!

Relax...It's the Weekend

Racist Attacks Republican

*MIERS WITHDRAWS NOMINATION*

Peace Through Strength

What's the Word? 10/25/05

History Repeats Itself

'06 is no '94

Sleeps With the Fishes...

Chris Matthews: Judge and Jury

Hillary's Curse

Words of Wisdom...

Bronx Bombers

Supreme Questions

Stench of Corruption

College Corruption

Democrat Pretty-Boys

Conservatism 101

Keep the Crazies Coming...

Tripping Down Memory Lane

Meet the Press

CBS: Is Bush a Liberal?

Evening Edition...

What's the Word? 9/16/05

Editorial Journalism

Evening Edition...

Infuriating Quotes of the Day 9/14/05

What's the Word? 9/13/05

9/11

What's the Word? 9/9/05

What's the Word? 9/7/05

CHIEF JUSTICE REHNQUIST DIES

The Race Against Race

**Hurricane Help!**

What's The Word? 8/16/05

Best of Bill Clinton?

The Briefing 8/8/05

What's the Word? 8/3/05

The Briefing 8/1/05

What's the Word? 7/29/05

MIERS WITHDRAWS NOMINATION

Hurricane Help!