I had a discussion this past week with a fairly "progressive" client on a wide variety of topics. Mostly cordial, of course. He was the client. One of his positions was that access to healthcard should be a right, not a privilege. I took the position that while I agree that individuals should be given … Continue reading Die Quickly
Tag: Government
Conviction versus Tolerance
Image by Getty Images via DaylifeMy wife showed me an article this week; I *think* it was from the Museum of Natural History, but I can't be sure. The article was mostly well-written and talked about how by a very early age, 6 months, humans begin rational thinking. Babies know that hidden objects haven't disappeared … Continue reading Conviction versus Tolerance
Condom Conundrum
Liberal conundrum: US Agency for International Development has distributed 10 billion US-made condoms around the world. To save money, they can switch to Chinese-made condoms. They're less than half the price. But that will eliminate jobs in Alabama. Should the US government insert a "buy American" provision back into the stimulus bill, even though it's … Continue reading Condom Conundrum
Something Besides Obama
Ok, "B" asked me to talk about something besides the political landscape. I'll try, but somehow just saying I'm not talking about it makes me want to talk about it. There are a lot of topics that are a possibility. There's the Study that sexually explicit lyrics lead to teen sex. I'm actually encouraged so … Continue reading Something Besides Obama
Another Reason Not to Be a Democrat
Reason number 76372 not to belong to the Democratic Party: They target a private citizen to silence him from using his constitutionally-protected first amendment right to free speech. It's ok to disagree with Rush Limbaugh. I happen to agree with much of what he says, and think he's a positive influence. And if you disagree, … Continue reading Another Reason Not to Be a Democrat
State Sovereignty
Image via WikipediaThe Ninth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution: The enumeration in the Constitution, of certain rights, shall not be construed to deny or disparage others retained by the people. The Tenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution: The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the States, … Continue reading State Sovereignty
Obama Urges Spending Curbs for Somebody, But Not Him
Associated Press headline, "Obama urges spending curbs, hands out $15 billion." After not quite a month in office, I've begun to change my opinion on the President. I thought at first he was a useful idiot, a tool of the powerful Democrat Spending Machine. I no longer think he's useful, and "idiot" may be too … Continue reading Obama Urges Spending Curbs for Somebody, But Not Him
The Next Civil Liberties Scare
Image via WikipediaI'm amazed at how fast we're moving to a system where the government controls everything. They're nationalizing banks, socializing medicine, rewriting property laws and taxing our grandchildren as we speak. Here I thought the loss of property rights from the Kelo decision were bad for America. All this coming from lefties who have … Continue reading The Next Civil Liberties Scare
Most Economists Agree – The Stimulus is a Bad Idea
From Obama's speech last night - Most economists almost unanimously recognize that, even if philosophically you’re — you’re wary of government intervening in the economy, when you have the kind of problem we have right now — what started on Wall Street, goes to Main Street, suddenly businesses can’t get credit, they start paring back … Continue reading Most Economists Agree – The Stimulus is a Bad Idea
Stimulus Plan Kills Older People
Ok, so that's a scare title. But not by much.Buried deep in the so-called Stimulus Plan are new government-mandated health-care restrictions. Here are some snippets - The bill’s health rules will affect “every individual in the United States” (445, 454, 479). Your medical treatments will be tracked electronically by a federal system. One new bureaucracy, … Continue reading Stimulus Plan Kills Older People
"Stimulus" Bill Now Tops $900 Billion
Congress is sapping any possibility of US productivity for generations to come. Only a fraction of this so-called "stimulus" bill actually stimulates the economy. The vast majority of it is increased government oversight and additional government programs. By taking such a whopping amount from the American people, the US government is stifling productivity of the … Continue reading "Stimulus" Bill Now Tops $900 Billion
Presidential Actions, Week 1
I'm going to keep saying this so that I remember; "Obama is my President." It's important to remember we are called to be good citizens. But that doesn't mean we check our beliefs and feelings at the door and blindly follow our new Dear Leader. In one week - He reestablished federal funding for overseas … Continue reading Presidential Actions, Week 1
What Did We Learn?
Obama beat McCain handily, 349 to 163 electoral votes. What we should have learned, I don't know that we did. What we should have learned is that we have principles and ideals and we should stick to them. Ronald Reagan knew it, and we gave him victories. The 1994 Republican House knew that, and we … Continue reading What Did We Learn?
The Loss of Conservatism
Image by Getty Images via DaylifeIf the major news media has succeeded today in discouraging conservatives from voting, the trifecta will be complete - Legislative, Executive, and Media. The blame for such a loss can be spread to many people. Let's start at the top. I like President Bush, and I threw my entire support … Continue reading The Loss of Conservatism
The Scariest Part of Tuesday's Election
It can be summed up in this little quote: Democrats are looking ahead to expanded power. New New Deal. Unfettered ability to impose government oversight, appoint activist judges, raise taxes, and spend whatever they want on whatever they want. I am so not looking forward to the next 4 years.
Rob from the Rich, Stiff the Poor, Too
I stared writing about "Joe the Plumber" yesterday based on a story at the New York Post. Little did I know how huge the story was about to become. John McCain launched Joe the Plumber into the national spotlight during last night's debate. My post was going to be about how Obama's strategy results in … Continue reading Rob from the Rich, Stiff the Poor, Too
US Government Restricts Free Speech and Expression of Religion
The "separation of church and state," such as it is, should keep the government from imposing a religion upon the people of this country. But regulations that squelch the speech of pastors? Can the US Government tell pastors what they can and cannot talk about? There is no law that I'm aware of that restricts … Continue reading US Government Restricts Free Speech and Expression of Religion
Mortgage Meltdown
Image via WikipediaI had been thinking this, but hadn't seen anybody writing about it. Sub-prime mortgages have led to a financial crisis. The blame for sub-prime mortgages generally get laid on the greed of the mortgage bankers, but is that all there is to it? Twenty years ago I remember the push to get banks … Continue reading Mortgage Meltdown
Targeting Religious Voters
I must be a target, then. U.S. presidential rivals Barack Obama and John McCain target religious voters on Saturday when as guests of one of America's foremost evangelists they discuss faith in public life, AIDS, the environment and other issues. Neither of the candidates appeal to me from a spiritual conviction. McCain can be downright … Continue reading Targeting Religious Voters
Russia Will Get Away With It
Russia invades Georgia, and we'll make mewing-like complaints. Russia will conquer our ally Georgia and we will do nothing useful to stop it. Georgia, once part of the Soviet Union, has become a strong ally of the US. Three quarters of their country voted to join Nato. That must gall Russia. So they weighed their … Continue reading Russia Will Get Away With It
PBS and the Separation of Church and State
When the US Government funds anything remotely Christian in nature, all sorts of "separation of church and state" groups get upset. The ACLU files a lawsuit and the "offensive" Christian material is removed. So why is it ok for US tax dollars to be used to oppose Christianity? Shouldn't the same standard be used? PBS, … Continue reading PBS and the Separation of Church and State
Fruitcake Interpretation of the Bible
Go get'em, James Dobson. Obama had some very liberal interpretations of what the bible says, and simultaneously tried to minimize Christian influence in politics *and* say that all religious discussions are welcome. James is firing back against what he called a "fruitcake interpetation of the bible." I love that phrase. News sources come from here … Continue reading Fruitcake Interpretation of the Bible
FAA Strands Thousands of Passengers
You've probably read that American Airlines cancelled thousands of flights. I blame the government for a combination of ineptitude and heavyhandedness. From what I can tell, inspections of Southwest Airlines and others like American Airlines were light. Things were allowed to be "good enough." The some FAA official was criticized. Southwest Airlines had to cancel … Continue reading FAA Strands Thousands of Passengers
One Less Bad Candidate to Vote For
I think I keep hoping for some unknown conservative candidate to suddenly appear and give me somebody to vote for. Like the ghost of Ronald Reagan, perhaps. What I want is a candidate that is socially and fiscally conservative. Socially conservative because, like it or not, the President sets an example for the morals of … Continue reading One Less Bad Candidate to Vote For
Praying for Rain
I first saw the news yesterday that governor of Georgia was going to lead a prayer for rain. I only briefly glanced over it; if I thought of it at all, it was to remark to myself that it's probably only a photo op to appease his votors, or if he's sincere, a passing wonder … Continue reading Praying for Rain
Yasser Arafat's Wife
I suppose she must have found me by googling, perhaps looking for Dale Earnhardt's current girlfriend. However she found me, Mrs. Arafat emailed me and wants to share $6.5 billion dollars with me. From: Mrs Suha Arafat ( mrsarafatsuha80@gmail.com ) Re: Trusted Partner For Investment/Safekeep Wednesday, September 26, 2007 1:31:26 PM This mail may not … Continue reading Yasser Arafat's Wife
Name One Thing the Government Does Well
Name one thing the US Government does exceptionally well. Pass legislation? Pork barrel politics, anyone? Hurricane Katrina recovery? Issue passports in time for your vacation? Assess property values? Public schooling? Social Security? IRS? Oversee accounting irregularities like Enron? Prosecute O.J Simpson and keep him in jail? Border security? Then why oh why would anybody possibly … Continue reading Name One Thing the Government Does Well
The Fine Print of the Immigration Bill
Fortunately, the Senate gagged on ramrodding (which is different than "Hillary Ramrodding") the immigration bill down The People's Throat. It'll give us more time to hoot and hollar and threaten to vote for the other party. James Lileks offers these highlights of the immigration bill this morning, and it's amazing what they thought they could … Continue reading The Fine Print of the Immigration Bill
Free Country! Come and Get It! (ding ding ding)
My country doesn't understand me. Whether you're a liberal or a conservative, this bill should make you suspicious. It was negotiated behind closed doors for 3 months by George Bush and Ted Kennedy. Regardless of your political viewpoint, I know you don't agree with both of those guys. Nobody can. The Senate is poised to … Continue reading Free Country! Come and Get It! (ding ding ding)
Court Backs Ban on Abortion Procedure
Court Backs Ban on Abortion Procedure WASHINGTON (AP) - The Supreme Court upheld the nationwide ban on a controversial abortion procedure Wednesday, handing abortion opponents the long-awaited victory they expected from a more conservative bench. The 5-4 ruling said the Partial Birth Abortion Ban Act that Congress passed and President Bush signed into law in … Continue reading Court Backs Ban on Abortion Procedure
Blog Against Theophobes
Ah. A lightbulb goes off. I read several posts this Easter weekend about the dangers of forming a theocracy. The Houston Chronicle linked to one at Feet to the Fire: The banwitdth devoted to the dangers of Church to State is enormous. Being righteous lefties that analysis comes easy to us. As a lefty who … Continue reading Blog Against Theophobes
Washington D.C.
Last week I wrote about Christian Submission to authorities so it seemed only right that a trip to Washington D.C. was in order. The wife & I planned a little mini-vacation to stay with a Russian friend in Alexandria, Virginia, just a piece up the ways (man it feels good to speak Texan again) from … Continue reading Washington D.C.
Shelter in Place
I had to stay indoors this afternoon. It's not unusual for me to be indoors on a Monday afternoon; what's unusual is for the city to tell everybody to stay indoors. We could see white smoke floating past our windows; something unintentional was released from a local industrial plant. The city told us to stay … Continue reading Shelter in Place
Compassionate Conservatism
I can't say I'm surprised. A new study shows that conservatives give more than liberals in every way possible - more money, more time, more giving blood, etc. In the book, he [Arthur C. Brooks] cites extensive data analysis to demonstrate that values advocated by conservatives -- from church attendance and two-parent families to the … Continue reading Compassionate Conservatism
Ah, to be more like the rest of the civilized world…..
Hillary is thinking big again. I thought she learned her lesson last time: She also said Democrats would focus on improving the quality and affordability of health care _ a touchy matter for the former first lady, who in 1993 led her husband's calamitous attempt to overhaul the nation's health care system. The failure of … Continue reading Ah, to be more like the rest of the civilized world…..
So Much Liberal Media Today
I've never seen so many news stories trumpeting the Democrats winning one or both seats of congress. Tonight, CNN was saying how great it was to have a divided Congress, or a President in one party and the Congress in another. The media is trying to brainwash the American people into believing this is a … Continue reading So Much Liberal Media Today
Tuscan Whole Milk
Amazon sells a lot more than books. And I like the fact that you can write a review of the product. Amazon also sells a 1 gallon jug of Tuscan Whole Milk, and as of this moment there are 609 reviews, such as: Humbly self-touted as nutritious Some even bandied, crazy-delicious But like the man … Continue reading Tuscan Whole Milk
Super Size It
I last worked in the restaurant biz over 25 years ago as a waiter at Denny's, but I understand why restaurants SuperSize meals. Customers are going to take a fixed amount of time, roughly 1 hour, sitting in a seat. The restaurant is only so big, the best way to boost profits is to sell … Continue reading Super Size It
Government and Morals
Here's a discussion question for today (and totally unrelated to Boo Boo the chicken). Does government have the right to enforce morality? In Black Jack, Missouri, population 6800, a local ordinance says three people or more people may not live together in a single family home unless they are related by "blood, marriage or adoption". … Continue reading Government and Morals
Government Fails to Stop Prayer
I chuckled at thsi story. Isn't it prohibited for the US Government to prohibit freedom of religion? They succeed often, but not this time. The graduating students stood up and prayed The Lord's Prayer and the crowd gave them a standing ovation. Earlier in the day, a federal judge had banned prayers from the ceremony … Continue reading Government Fails to Stop Prayer
U.S. Border Patrol Works for Mexico
There must be a good reason for this. While Minuteman civilian patrols are keeping an eye out for illegal border crossers, the U.S. Border Patrol is keeping an eye out for Minutemen -- and telling the Mexican government where they are. Wouldn't it be cheaper to fire the entire US Border Patrol and use the … Continue reading U.S. Border Patrol Works for Mexico
News That Irritates Me
There are too many topics to blog about so I got the "deer in the headlights" frozen stare going and didn't blog about any of them. Work has been busy, sun was in my eyes, blah blah blah. Here's stuff in the news that's irritating today: Houston Police assures illegal immigrants that they don't have … Continue reading News That Irritates Me
Building a Fence
It's amazing the citizens will step up and do what the government won't do. Minutemen today said we need a fence, and if the government won't put it up, then they will. TUCSON, Ariz. (AP) -- If the government doesn't build security fencing along the Mexico border, Minuteman border watch leader Chris Simcox says he … Continue reading Building a Fence
Liberty Legal Institute
A recent comment indicates that some people are under the impression... well, I'll let the comment speak for itself: Characterizing the court battles of religious symbols in public as “prohibiting the free expression of Christianity†is highly disingenuous, however. The court battles have been about government sponsorship of such expressions, not about individual expression of … Continue reading Liberty Legal Institute
Death to Afghan Christians
While the newly freed Afghanistan says they respct freedom of religion as long as that religion is Islam. Abdul Rahman converted to Christianity 16 years ago and is in jail facing the death penalty because of it. Michelle Malkin has full details here and here, including petition drives and embassy contacts to write to encourage … Continue reading Death to Afghan Christians
Overturning Roe v. Wade
South Dakota has wasted no time challenging the federal government's mandate to allow abortion. They have approved a ban on abortion specifically to challenge Roe v. Wade. PIERRE, S.D. - South Dakota lawmakers approved a ban on nearly all abortions Friday, setting up a deliberate frontal assault on Roe v. Wade at a time when … Continue reading Overturning Roe v. Wade
State of Cindy's Delusion
You probably know Cindy Sheehan was arrested and removed before the President's State of the Union address last night. That wasn't really a surprise - the surprise to me was that a U.S. Representative, Lynn Woolsey, gave her a ticket. Sometimes the Left is really... Left, you know? Cindy was removed by Capital Police because, … Continue reading State of Cindy's Delusion
"Lost Liberty" Hotel One Step Closer
I wrote about this last year after that dreadful Supreme Court Kelo decision - that the government can confiscate private property if it can be shown taxes can be increased. Increased taxes historically haven't been considered part of the "public use" definition in the Constitution. Churches in particular have been worried since they're tax exempt. … Continue reading "Lost Liberty" Hotel One Step Closer
Separation of Church and State
Here's an early Christmas present; thanks to CADRE Comments for the tip. The Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals upheld Mercer County's right to display in a court house the Ten Commandments along with the Mayflower Compact, the Declaration of Independence, the Magna Carta, and the National Motto ("In God We Trust"). American Civil Liberties Union … Continue reading Separation of Church and State
A Non-Christian Narna
People that hate Christians should not go see "The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe." The Guardian Unlimited, England's ultra liberal rag, says "Narnia represents everything that is most hateful about religion." Exceprts: The Christian radio station Premier is urging churches to hold services on the theme of The Gospel According to Narnia. Even the … Continue reading A Non-Christian Narna
Inviting the Illegal Aliens
At Sand in the Gears, Tony first opined that enforcing immigration laws is not a Christian thing to do. After taking some heat for that statement, he addressed their comments and challenged Christians to rethink their position on illegal immigration. On his latter post I took the position that although I agreed with his sentiment, … Continue reading Inviting the Illegal Aliens
Some Babies Survive
Some babies survive the abortion process. Despite the best efforts to declare these struggling young humans as "non-viable," some of them survive the abortion process and are born damaged and crying. A [United Kingdom] GOVERNMENT agency is launching an inquiry into doctors’ reports that up to 50 babies a year are born alive after botched … Continue reading Some Babies Survive
Intelligent Design in Public Schools
Andrew Coulson at the Cato Institute has a question - why are we fighting over Intelligent Deisgn vs Evolution? Does it matter to one parent if another parent teaches their child about God? Supporters of the theory of human origins known as "intelligent design" want it taught alongside the theory of evolution. Opponents will do … Continue reading Intelligent Design in Public Schools
The Left Hates Inequality
On the surface, that doesn't sound so bad. The Left hates inequality. Nobody need be better or worse than anybody else. Trouble is, enforced equality is socialism, communism. Instead of bringing people up from the bottom, equality is enforced by shackling the achievers. When you see a special tax on oil profits, opposition to school … Continue reading The Left Hates Inequality
In God We Trust
I find this non-ruling interesting: The U.S. Supreme Court was asked to review whether the words "In God We Trust," written prominently in large block letters on the Lexington, N.C. county government center, violated the so-called separation of church and state. As an aside, I'll keep saying this until the news media gets it: there … Continue reading In God We Trust
Disgruntled Conservatives
When Bush pushed for Harriet Miers, I balked. The Republicans are not only not acting like the majority party, but the few battles they win seem like they're for the other side. The size of government balloons. From the lack of social security reform to the nomonation of Harriet Miers, I'm done giving Bush the … Continue reading Disgruntled Conservatives
Middle Class Military
Charles Rangel, the looney left-wing Democrat, has criticized the military on several issues, one of them that the military is made up disproportionately of minorities while middle and upper class families reap the benefits without risk. Where he got that idea from, who knows. Certainly didn't come from the facts, though. Turns out most of … Continue reading Middle Class Military
Houston Election Recap
I didn't get all jazzed over this election; except for Proposition 2, there weren't any real hotbuttons. My general impression of the results are that social conservatives and fiscal liberals won; Proposition 2 won handily, but those incumbents against appraisal caps held their job. Pfft. Proposition 1 passed that authorized various grants. I think the … Continue reading Houston Election Recap
No Longer Giving Bush the Benefit of the Doubt
I have to admit that after nearly 5 years of being a Bush supporter, I'm having trouble recently continuing to support him. Until 9/11, I though Bush was mostly ineffectual, stymied by the Democrats whenever he tried to accomplish anything. Bush was still a far better choice than Al "Mr. Internet" Gore, though. 9/11 changed … Continue reading No Longer Giving Bush the Benefit of the Doubt
Should Wal-Mart rebuild
CNN did a pole today and ask if Wal-Mart should be in charge of rebuilding the area wrecked by hurricane Katrina. Mixed answers came back in the form of emails but I thought it was hilarious that anyone would pose such a question. Feedback ranged from Stop asking the government for help and handouts, surfers … Continue reading Should Wal-Mart rebuild
Katrina and Social Security Reform
These two topic shouldn't go together, but if the Angry Left can combine hurricanes and racism, then I can combine hurricanes and Social Security reform. 😛 Ted Kennedy, liberal stalwarth, said recently, "what the heck is a stalwarth? Did you misspell 'stalworth'? What kind of cheesy website are you running?" Then he said, "What the … Continue reading Katrina and Social Security Reform
Ill Wind May Not Blow to the Whitehouse
Will Hurricane Katrina spell the end of George Bush's Presidency? Almost certainly yes, with a few caveats. 😛 As the full horror of Hurricane Katrina sinks in, thousands of desperate columnists are asking if this is the end of George Bush's presidency. The answer is almost certainly yes, provided that every copy of the US … Continue reading Ill Wind May Not Blow to the Whitehouse
Relief Efforts at Texas A&M
I'm happy to see my Alma Mater, Texas A&M University, is helping out the refugees from Hurricane Katrina: From: President Robert M. Gates [mailto:president@tamu.edu] Sent: Monday, September 05, 2005 2:47 PM To: undisclosed-recipients Subject: Relief Efforts at Texas A&M To: Faculty, Students and Staff Subject: Relief Efforts at Texas A&M Any Aggie of any age … Continue reading Relief Efforts at Texas A&M
Casualties in Iraq
The mainstream media breathlessly informs us every chance they get that over 1900 soldier have died in Iraq. I wouldn't be surprised to read a story that said, "President Bush has declared parts of Louisiana and Mississippi a disaster area after Hurricane Katrina, despite the fact that over 1900 soldiers have died in Iraq." Here's … Continue reading Casualties in Iraq
Didn't Change Mind; Still Dislike the Left
A recent visitor took umbrage with with my Religious Linkage for Monday post last week. Part of that post was a Worldnet article called "10 Reasons I've Grown to Despise the Left." The visitor disagreed with the post and cited all sorts of things wrong with right wingers. I threw a penalty flag in my … Continue reading Didn't Change Mind; Still Dislike the Left
How the D-Day Invasion Would Be Reported By Today's Press
NORMANDY, FRANCE (June 6, 1944) Three hundred French civilians were killed and thousands more were wounded today in the first hours of America's invasion of continental Europe. Casualties were heaviest among women and children. Most of the French casualties were the result of artillery fire from American ships attempting to knock out German fortifications prior … Continue reading How the D-Day Invasion Would Be Reported By Today's Press
Christian Carnival 83
Christian Carnival 83 is up at All Kinds of Time. I just stumbled onto this group today; obviously this blogging "carnival" has been going on for quite some time. It appears to be quite a collection of "best of Christian blogging" that's posted on a regular basis. I'll look into figuring out how to be … Continue reading Christian Carnival 83
Religious Linkage for Monday
I kept waiting for Monday to let up; doesn't look like it's going to happen. So instead of thought-provoking commentary, here's a couple of interrelated links: 10 reasons I've grown to despise the Left ...and why you should, too Yeah, I know it's written in an inflammatory way, but look at the list, especially if … Continue reading Religious Linkage for Monday
Baggage Screener By Day, Rapper Terrorist By Night
Who screens the screeners? HOUSTON -- When Bassam Khalaf raps, he's the Arabic Assassin. His unreleased CD, "Terror Alert," includes rhymes about flying a plane into a building and descriptions of himself as a "crazy, suicidal Arabic ... equipped with bombs." Until last week, Khalaf also worked as a baggage screener at George Bush Intercontinental … Continue reading Baggage Screener By Day, Rapper Terrorist By Night
Ten Commandments
The Supreme Court made their schizophrenic ruling regarding placement of the Ten Commandments. Instead of making it a black and white issue, now you have to determine whether the placement is inside or outside or on of off government property, and then determine how religious or historical the monument is. Another ten years to sort … Continue reading Ten Commandments
Build a Hotel, Tear Down Justice Souter's Home
This is brilliant. Last week, the Supreme Court trampled the 5th Amendment, saying cities can confiscate private property if it leads to more tax revenue. In other words, anything the government wants to confiscate, it can, as long as it has a slick marketing campaign. So today, developer Logan Darrow Clements filed a request to … Continue reading Build a Hotel, Tear Down Justice Souter's Home
Land Siezure
More on yesterday's post that allows the government to sieze property for nearly any reason now, Mud-n-Phud has compiled a list of property about to be siezed and the blogs that cover them.
Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Tax Revenue
The Supreme Court approved, by a 5-4 margin, to water down seriously the 5th Amendment. No longer does the government have to prove a "public use" to confiscate property. Now it just has to develop a slick marketing campaign to prove that "well, the public would have wanted this anyway." What I find interesting is … Continue reading Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Tax Revenue
Monday Linkfest
The busy weekend is over. Whew. Friday was a visit to the county clerk to sign up for a marriage license. The clerk looked at our drivers licenses suspiciously. "You have the same last name," she said. Bah, let her wonder. 😛 Saturday was the Spring Fling (I posted a picture over the weekend). Diane … Continue reading Monday Linkfest
Working Class
Slate.com questions whether Bush supporters are insane. They point out that the wealth of the working class is shrinking. While the Democrats run on platforms that say they will help, the working class votes Republican anyway. The working class's refusal to synchronize its politics with its economic interests is one of the enduring puzzles of … Continue reading Working Class
The Rise of Hate Radio
Satire, wit, political commentary... I am most amused this morning with the "The Rise of Hate Radio" article at "BlameBush!" Don't let the name of the website scare you away - it's fiercely conservative but full of satire, pretending to blame Bush for all the world's ills, possibly including hair loss and people who talk … Continue reading The Rise of Hate Radio
National Day of Prayer
Today is a National Day of Prayer. And no, Google doesn't have a special logo for this one, either. And in San Francisco, they don't like the fact that this day is dominated by Christians. The day has been taken over by evangelicals," said Robert Boston, a spokesman for Americans for Separation of Church and … Continue reading National Day of Prayer
Poland Wanted God
I was a bit on the young side to remember Pope John Paul's visit to Poland. Well, ok, I was 17, not too young, but I was focused on getting a tan and what I was going to do Saturday night. I wasn't focused on world politics at the time. I remember when he was … Continue reading Poland Wanted God
Dueling City Propositions
Yesterday, the 1st Court of Appeals heard arguments about Houston's conflicting Proposition 1 and Proposition 2. Here's the recap: Houston votors gethered enough petitions to force a city-wide vote on a proposition to cap the growth of city government. The city didn't like it, but eventually gave in and listed it on the ballot as … Continue reading Dueling City Propositions
Terri Schiavo is Dead
After 13 days without food, Terri Schiavo died today at the age of 41. My prayers are with Terri's parents who gave a good fight to try to save their daughter's life. And I condemn her "husband;" he used the "sanctity of marriage" screen for his decision while already engaged in an adulterous affair, and … Continue reading Terri Schiavo is Dead
Good Links
Good links for today: OpinionJournal compares the federal government's 1999 "Good Friday" midnight snatch of Elian Gonzales in order to send him back to Cuba with the current restraint being show in the Terri Schiavo case, even though in both cases the appeals courts ruled against the government. Kofi Annan is "depressed" over scandals at … Continue reading Good Links
Fallen in Love with Death
Peggy Noonan in OpinionJournal this morning expresses the confusion I'm familiar with. Why are those so eager to see Terri Schaivo dead? Excepts: God made the world or he didn't. God made you or he didn't. If he did, your little human life is, and has been, touched by the divine. If this is true, … Continue reading Fallen in Love with Death
Culture of Life
One of the longest and largest threads here on Chasing the Wind is the post I made about Terri Schiavo. It's attracted many, many visitors posting for the first time. I suspect it's because I originally misspelled her name as Terry Schiavo until some left-wing loonie made a snide comment that right wing people can't … Continue reading Culture of Life
Religious Wars
A recent poster wrote: I am not sure I buy the claim that atheism is in decline, and I certainly question the statement that it is losing its scientific basis. Religious belief has no scientific evidence to support it and a long and bloody history of violence, cruelty, and intolerance. If you don't "buy that … Continue reading Religious Wars
Freedom is Approaching Lebanon
The Lebanese people can taste freedom. The days of Syrian occupation may be nearing an end. After the assasination of Prime Minster Rafik al-Hariri, thousands of Lebanese have taken to the streets in defiance of the Syrian curfew. Today, the Syrian-backed Lebanese government resigned en-masse. You've got to know the Lebanese people are watching the … Continue reading Freedom is Approaching Lebanon
Stealth Tax
The Houston Chronicle did a terrible job discussing the appraisal cap issue which came up on the Texas Senate floor yesterday: Cities and counties would be the hardest hit by a lower appraisal cap because it would hamper their ability to raise revenues to pay for local services. This is absolutely false. Revenue can go … Continue reading Stealth Tax
What Do the Democrats Stand For?
OpinionJournal today asks, "What do the Democrats stand for?" Then proceeds to eloquently trash the heart of liberalism and what is stands for. Excellent reading today; while applauding the heart behind liberalism, once you recognize that liberalism has a cost, you next have to ask, "how much cost is too much?" And as soon as … Continue reading What Do the Democrats Stand For?
Gimme Your Money For Your Own Good
First, our Texas government says they have more money than ever. In fact, they have too much. [Texas Comptroller Carole Keeton] Strayhorn estimated legislators will have $64.7 billion in state revenue to spend in the upcoming two-year budget — $6.4 billion more than they had in January 2003. Then they say they need more: [Texas … Continue reading Gimme Your Money For Your Own Good
Tsunami Update
The US increased the amount of aid pledged 10-fold to $350 million. That doesn't include the millions more pledged voluntarily through organizations like the Red Cross. Meanwhile, Kofi Annan finally speaks on the disaster. Apparently, he didn't want to interrupt his ski vacation in Jackson, Wyoming to deal with the crisis. Q: Mr. Secretary, picking … Continue reading Tsunami Update
Boycotting "Winter Holidays"
Yep, I'm boycotting "Winter Holidays" as a completely useless and meaningless psuedo-pagan holiday. I'm celebrating Christmas. The birth of Christ, a reminder He came to die for our sins, the loving and giving we share with each other as we remember the loving and giving Jesus gave to us. I'll happily pile on the odd … Continue reading Boycotting "Winter Holidays"
The Economy Today
Two news stories today make it clear how the economy is fairing today. First, the economy is in the doldrums. Consumers aren't spending, businesses are losing money, the world is coming to an end: NEW YORK (Reuters) - Discount retailer Dollar General Corp. on Wednesday posted an unexpected profit fall with customers hurt by high … Continue reading The Economy Today
Big Brother and Your Laser Printer
I saw this news article last week, but my brain was compressed by Thanksgiving turkey and I didn't remember until this morning. Did you know that every document you print on a color laser printer or color copier has tiny little yellow dots with the serial number in it? According to experts, several printer companies … Continue reading Big Brother and Your Laser Printer
ACLU Bullies Boy Scouts
The ACLU has found a target to pick on - the Boy Scouts of America. In response to a religious discrimination lawsuit brought by the American Civil Liberties Union of Illinois, the Defense Department today agreed to end direct sponsorship of hundreds of Boy Scout units, which require members to swear religious oaths, on military … Continue reading ACLU Bullies Boy Scouts
One Day at a Time
I never intended to blog politically, but that's sort of the way it turned out over the last few months. I guess that's normal, given the elections. As I get older, I get more opinionated. I read many of my favorite blogs the last couple of days; some are gloating, others are purposefully not gloating. … Continue reading One Day at a Time
Kerry, the French, and the Germans
John Kerry said that he would build a coalition to help out in Iraq. Since Bush has already done that(with the exception of France, Germany, and Russia), Kerry must have some sort of sooper seckret plan to get these countries to help. French and German government officials say they will not significantly increase military assistance … Continue reading Kerry, the French, and the Germans
Houstonians: Vote Yes on Proposition 2
I love what those guys at C.L.O.U.T. are doing and trying to keep our property taxes low. They're easy to listen to on the radio, but man, they need somebody to help them with their emails to make them easier to read. Ouch. Short recommendation: Vote Yes on Proposition 2. The other Proposition 1 is … Continue reading Houstonians: Vote Yes on Proposition 2
Limited Government
I'm waiting for the major media to catch up on the Swift Boat Veteran stories. It's all over the conservative blogs, and just now starting to reach the liberal blogs. The left needed some time to catch up, and they're researching the background of the swift boat veterans. That's a good thing, by the way … Continue reading Limited Government
Keeping Your Guard Up II
Heh. NYTimes took a lot of heat for their "oh, that terrorism threat is old news" article I blogged yesterday. Today, they're singing a different tune. Senior government officials said Tuesday that new intelligence pointing to a current threat of a terrorist attack on financial targets in New York and possibly in Washington - not … Continue reading Keeping Your Guard Up II
Chronicle Having Trouble Praising Kerry
In an unsigned editorial this morning, the Chronicle praises John Kerry's speech last night. Kerry's promises were especially appealing: Whatever shortcomings Kerry's well-crafted speech might have had, it contained no shortage of promises. Fulfilling even one — providing universal and affordable health care — would make Kerry a success where Bill and Hillary Clinton failed. … Continue reading Chronicle Having Trouble Praising Kerry
Al Qaeda Operative Arrested in McAllen, Texas
A South African woman, Farida Goolam Mohamed Ahmed, was picked up at the McAllen Miller International Airport on July 19, headed to New York. Authorities believe she is a high-level Al Qaeda operative. Government sources tell FederalNewsRadio.com that capturing this woman could be comparable to the arrest of Khalid Sheik Mohammed, the alleged mastermind of … Continue reading Al Qaeda Operative Arrested in McAllen, Texas
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