UC Davis Students Challenge Anti-Conservative Discrimination
There were only about six of them, but hey, they got news coverage. If you can get that, even if it isn't necessarly favorable, then you've accomplished something significant.
Thursday, April 17, 2003
Spend the Day with Jose
If you win, just don't ask him to drive you anywhere or mention his ex-wife Esther. A dangerous combination, if ever there was one.
If you win, just don't ask him to drive you anywhere or mention his ex-wife Esther. A dangerous combination, if ever there was one.
Bishop Tells Daschle to Stop Identifying Himself as Catholic
Link via The Drudge Report
This isn't exactly excommunication--which is unnecessary, in any case, since Daschle made himself ineligible for communion almost 20 years ago with his divorce and remarriage to a Washington lobbyist. The directive from Sioux Falls' Bishop Robert Carlson is rather something less than excommunication--and, at the same time, something more: a declaration that Tom Daschle's religious identification constitutes, in technical Catholic vocabulary, a grave public scandal.
Link via The Drudge Report
This isn't exactly excommunication--which is unnecessary, in any case, since Daschle made himself ineligible for communion almost 20 years ago with his divorce and remarriage to a Washington lobbyist. The directive from Sioux Falls' Bishop Robert Carlson is rather something less than excommunication--and, at the same time, something more: a declaration that Tom Daschle's religious identification constitutes, in technical Catholic vocabulary, a grave public scandal.
Wednesday, April 16, 2003
How the Networks Can Control America
Liz Cho could be doling out propaganda that would make Baghdad Bob proud, and I still probably wouldn't even notice.
Liz Cho could be doling out propaganda that would make Baghdad Bob proud, and I still probably wouldn't even notice.
How Protestants Are Like Bill Clinton
This report on Monica Lewinsky got me to thinking about Bill Clinton's infamous question about and difficulty with the definition of "is". Seems to me that most, if not all, Protestants (and probably quite a few poorly catechized Catholics) have a similar difficulty with the word in that they view Jesus' comment in Mt 26:26, "This is my body", as being a statement of symbolism rather than literal. Can you imagine what Jesus would have said had one of the Apostles asked Him for clarification on the meaning of "is"? "Truly, truly I say to you, thou art a blithering idiot. Get a clue."
This report on Monica Lewinsky got me to thinking about Bill Clinton's infamous question about and difficulty with the definition of "is". Seems to me that most, if not all, Protestants (and probably quite a few poorly catechized Catholics) have a similar difficulty with the word in that they view Jesus' comment in Mt 26:26, "This is my body", as being a statement of symbolism rather than literal. Can you imagine what Jesus would have said had one of the Apostles asked Him for clarification on the meaning of "is"? "Truly, truly I say to you, thou art a blithering idiot. Get a clue."
Just War Evidence Keeps Mounting
American troops raided the home of the mastermind of Saddam Hussein's biological weapons lab on Wednesday and discovered a sprawling, recently abandoned terrorist training camp south of Baghdad as they dug for secrets from a dead regime.
I think Pres. Bush needs to seriously consider lifting the "no gloating zone" he imposed over the White House sometime soon.
American troops raided the home of the mastermind of Saddam Hussein's biological weapons lab on Wednesday and discovered a sprawling, recently abandoned terrorist training camp south of Baghdad as they dug for secrets from a dead regime.
I think Pres. Bush needs to seriously consider lifting the "no gloating zone" he imposed over the White House sometime soon.
Lamest Excuse I Ever Heard
A news item about people who engage in sadomasochism for the "exercise". Uh yeah, and men buy Playboy for the interesting articles.
A news item about people who engage in sadomasochism for the "exercise". Uh yeah, and men buy Playboy for the interesting articles.
Tuesday, April 15, 2003
Wealthy L.A. Suburb Repeals Anti-Adultery Law
Yeah it may be archaic and never enforced, but why not keep it on the books as an official gesture toward moral values and the sanctity of traditional marriage?
Yeah it may be archaic and never enforced, but why not keep it on the books as an official gesture toward moral values and the sanctity of traditional marriage?
Mary Baker Eddy Would Probably Not Have Approved
The former treasurer of a New Hampshire church [of Christ Scientist] pleaded guilty to charges he stole $1.6 million from the church during a six-year period and left it with less than $100 in its accounts.
The former treasurer of a New Hampshire church [of Christ Scientist] pleaded guilty to charges he stole $1.6 million from the church during a six-year period and left it with less than $100 in its accounts.
Monday, April 14, 2003
More Separation of Church and State Nonsense
The City of Ventura faces suit for having a Latin cross monumnet in a public park.
Stan Kohls, a resident of nearby Somis and another of the men complaining about the cross, said the symbol represents a dangerous intrusion of religion into public life.
"All you have to do is look at Israel or Northern Ireland to see how destructive religion can be when it is brought out in public," said the semiretired special education teacher. "A society that is democratic must be secular as well."
Correct me if I'm wrong, but didn't the two biggest mass murderers in history, the Soviet Union and Communist China, consider themselves to be democratic (they had popular elections) as well as officially secular?
The City of Ventura faces suit for having a Latin cross monumnet in a public park.
Stan Kohls, a resident of nearby Somis and another of the men complaining about the cross, said the symbol represents a dangerous intrusion of religion into public life.
"All you have to do is look at Israel or Northern Ireland to see how destructive religion can be when it is brought out in public," said the semiretired special education teacher. "A society that is democratic must be secular as well."
Correct me if I'm wrong, but didn't the two biggest mass murderers in history, the Soviet Union and Communist China, consider themselves to be democratic (they had popular elections) as well as officially secular?
Just Wait 'Til They Start Banning Cell Phones
A bouncer at a night club in New York was stabbed to death after he tried to enforce a city ban on smoking in restaurants and bars.
[The victim's] older brother, Tony Blake, said Sunday he blamed the death on the smoking ban. ''I'm very bitter,'' he said. ''It's a senseless murder because of this stupid cigarette law. That's the reason this guy was killed.''
A bouncer at a night club in New York was stabbed to death after he tried to enforce a city ban on smoking in restaurants and bars.
[The victim's] older brother, Tony Blake, said Sunday he blamed the death on the smoking ban. ''I'm very bitter,'' he said. ''It's a senseless murder because of this stupid cigarette law. That's the reason this guy was killed.''
Friday, April 11, 2003
Army Chaplain in Iraq Reortedly Trades Water for Baptism
[Chaplain Josh] Llano, a Southern Baptist, recently told a Knight Ridder reporter that he makes soldiers sit through a 90-minute sermon and then take part in baptismal services in a 500-gallon container used only for baptisms. Rudd said many of the soldiers had gone up to 10 days without a shower.
In the story, which appeared in newspapers throughout the country, Llano said the soldiers willingly agreed to his terms. Said Llano in the story: "It's simple. They want water. I have it, as long as they agree to get baptized."
I thought Baptists didn't believe in water baptism. Anyway, I think this guy was just joking around. The separation of church and state drones need to lighten up and unwad their panties.
[Chaplain Josh] Llano, a Southern Baptist, recently told a Knight Ridder reporter that he makes soldiers sit through a 90-minute sermon and then take part in baptismal services in a 500-gallon container used only for baptisms. Rudd said many of the soldiers had gone up to 10 days without a shower.
In the story, which appeared in newspapers throughout the country, Llano said the soldiers willingly agreed to his terms. Said Llano in the story: "It's simple. They want water. I have it, as long as they agree to get baptized."
I thought Baptists didn't believe in water baptism. Anyway, I think this guy was just joking around. The separation of church and state drones need to lighten up and unwad their panties.
Nancy Pelosi: Democrat Party Minister of (Mis)Information
"I have absolutely no regret about my vote on this war," she told reporters at her weekly briefing yesterday, saying the same questions still remain: "The cost in human lives. The cost to our budget, probably $100 billion. We could have probably brought down that statue for a lot less."
These liberal Dems annoy me to no end. All they do is bitch and moan about policies they don't like without offering any kind of legitimate or reasonable alternatives. And instead of owning up to it when they are proven wrong, they bitch and moan about how they would have done things differently without actually saying what they would have done.
"I have absolutely no regret about my vote on this war," she told reporters at her weekly briefing yesterday, saying the same questions still remain: "The cost in human lives. The cost to our budget, probably $100 billion. We could have probably brought down that statue for a lot less."
These liberal Dems annoy me to no end. All they do is bitch and moan about policies they don't like without offering any kind of legitimate or reasonable alternatives. And instead of owning up to it when they are proven wrong, they bitch and moan about how they would have done things differently without actually saying what they would have done.
We Love Baghdad Bob
A little twisted, but some enterprising folks have set up a "fan" website dedicated to the now seldomly seen Iraqi Minister of Information.
A little twisted, but some enterprising folks have set up a "fan" website dedicated to the now seldomly seen Iraqi Minister of Information.
Thursday, April 10, 2003
Reason Number 2 Million and 1 for Despising Barry Lynn
U.S. Secretary of Education publicly expresses his admiration of Christian school values; leader of Americans United for the Saddamization of Church and State calls for his resignation.
U.S. Secretary of Education publicly expresses his admiration of Christian school values; leader of Americans United for the Saddamization of Church and State calls for his resignation.
Bad Hair Day Worth $6K
If this figure includes attorneys' fees and costs, I'd have to say this lawsuit was hardly worth the effort. But hey, it got some news coverage. Fifteen minutes of fame and all...
If this figure includes attorneys' fees and costs, I'd have to say this lawsuit was hardly worth the effort. But hey, it got some news coverage. Fifteen minutes of fame and all...
Wednesday, April 09, 2003
Elite Republican Democrat Guard Put Up Resistence to Owen Nomination
Unlike in Iraq, however, the U.S. may very well not win this one.
Unlike in Iraq, however, the U.S. may very well not win this one.
Reaction: Whatever...
A group of German university professors, angered by the U.S.-British war against Iraq, have launched a campaign to replace many popular English-language words used in Germany with French terms.
A group of German university professors, angered by the U.S.-British war against Iraq, have launched a campaign to replace many popular English-language words used in Germany with French terms.
Confession in Singapore Cancelled
"This year in view of the SARS epidemic, I have obtained permission from Rome for our priests to grant a general absolution instead of individual confessions and absolution," [Archbishop Nicholas] Chia said in a letter to Singapore's 152,000 Catholics.
Catholics in multicultural Singapore are already banned from holding or shaking hands in church to prevent spread of SARS and holy communion wafers can only be issued on the palm of the hand. Usually, Catholics can choose to receive communion on the tongue.
Chia said churchgoers must be resolved to confess their sins in due time for the general absolution to work.
"This year in view of the SARS epidemic, I have obtained permission from Rome for our priests to grant a general absolution instead of individual confessions and absolution," [Archbishop Nicholas] Chia said in a letter to Singapore's 152,000 Catholics.
Catholics in multicultural Singapore are already banned from holding or shaking hands in church to prevent spread of SARS and holy communion wafers can only be issued on the palm of the hand. Usually, Catholics can choose to receive communion on the tongue.
Chia said churchgoers must be resolved to confess their sins in due time for the general absolution to work.
Tuesday, April 08, 2003
Have You Heard the One About the Three Nuns...
...who were arrested and convicted of sabotage and malicious destruction of property?
...who were arrested and convicted of sabotage and malicious destruction of property?
SCOTUS Reins In "Excessive" Punitive Damage Awards
Where again in the Constitution does it say outrageous civil damages shall not be awarded because Brand X failed to warn you of the dangers of their product?
Juries in civil cases are intended to compensate victims for their actual losses, not to mete out punishment, said Justice Anthony M. Kennedy for the court.
"Great care must be taken to avoid the use of the civil process to assess" society's punishment, he said. "Punitive damages are not a substitute for the criminal process."
Where again in the Constitution does it say outrageous civil damages shall not be awarded because Brand X failed to warn you of the dangers of their product?
Juries in civil cases are intended to compensate victims for their actual losses, not to mete out punishment, said Justice Anthony M. Kennedy for the court.
"Great care must be taken to avoid the use of the civil process to assess" society's punishment, he said. "Punitive damages are not a substitute for the criminal process."
Lawyers Unionize
"Low" pay ($50K/year to sit around all day and give out legal advice on the phone) and "poor" working conditions (no law library and open cubicles for offices) cause one group of lawyers to form a Teamsters unit. Lord, have mercy.
"Low" pay ($50K/year to sit around all day and give out legal advice on the phone) and "poor" working conditions (no law library and open cubicles for offices) cause one group of lawyers to form a Teamsters unit. Lord, have mercy.
Monday, April 07, 2003
Ban on Cross Burning Upheld by SCOTUS
An interesting 5-4 decision that transcends the liberal-conservative ideological divide on the Court. In his dissent to upholding the ban, Justice Clarence Thomas, made clear his reasons have nothing to do with protecting free speech rights of the Klan.
Thomas said the court didn't even have to consider the First Amendment implications because cross burning is clearly intimidation.
"Just as one cannot burn down someone's house to make a political point and then seek refuge in the First Amendment, those who hate cannot terrorize and intimidate to make their point," he wrote.
"In our culture, cross burning has almost invariably meant lawlessness and understandably instills in its victims well-grounded fear of physical violence," Thomas said.
An interesting 5-4 decision that transcends the liberal-conservative ideological divide on the Court. In his dissent to upholding the ban, Justice Clarence Thomas, made clear his reasons have nothing to do with protecting free speech rights of the Klan.
Thomas said the court didn't even have to consider the First Amendment implications because cross burning is clearly intimidation.
"Just as one cannot burn down someone's house to make a political point and then seek refuge in the First Amendment, those who hate cannot terrorize and intimidate to make their point," he wrote.
"In our culture, cross burning has almost invariably meant lawlessness and understandably instills in its victims well-grounded fear of physical violence," Thomas said.
Cue the Violins
Jobless rate among lawyers has doubled since the nineties.
In light of this incredibly distressing news, some famous musical performer ought to organize a benefit concert ("Attorney Aid") for long suffering unemployed lawyers.
Hey, stop laughing!
Jobless rate among lawyers has doubled since the nineties.
In light of this incredibly distressing news, some famous musical performer ought to organize a benefit concert ("Attorney Aid") for long suffering unemployed lawyers.
Hey, stop laughing!
Sunday, April 06, 2003
Actor/Comedian Dennis Miller on Film Director/Big Fat Liar Michael Moore
"He's going to wake up every day for the rest of his life, and he's going to tell us how he hates everything about this country except his right to hate it. And then we say that we love it and he's going to tell us what naive sheep we are and that he's the true patriot because he hates it and he sees all the problems in it. Yeah, right, Mike. You know something, if my yawn got any bigger they'd have to assign it a hurricane name, okay?
"Michael Moore simultaneously represents everything I detest in a human being and everything I feel obligated to defend in an American. Quite simply, it is that stupid moron's right to be that utterly, completely wrong."
For more biting quotes from the not usually conservative Mr. Miller, go here.
"He's going to wake up every day for the rest of his life, and he's going to tell us how he hates everything about this country except his right to hate it. And then we say that we love it and he's going to tell us what naive sheep we are and that he's the true patriot because he hates it and he sees all the problems in it. Yeah, right, Mike. You know something, if my yawn got any bigger they'd have to assign it a hurricane name, okay?
"Michael Moore simultaneously represents everything I detest in a human being and everything I feel obligated to defend in an American. Quite simply, it is that stupid moron's right to be that utterly, completely wrong."
For more biting quotes from the not usually conservative Mr. Miller, go here.
Friday, April 04, 2003
Eco-Animal Terrorists Decry Military Use of Sea Critters
"Wars are human endeavors. While a person, a political party, or a nation may decide that war is necessary, the animals never do. Like civilians, they often become the victims of war, but now, the U.S. military is deliberately putting animals in harm's way. These animals never enlisted, they know nothing of Iraq or Saddam Hussein, and they probably won't survive," argues PETA.
Animals against the war? Who died and left PETA to decide what animals think?
There's no question that animals haven't "decided" that war in Iraq is necessary. But that's a specious argument since animals simply can't reason on such a level in the first place.
Interdependence between humans and animals has existed for thousands of years. How would human society have progressed if PETA had been around at the dawn of agriculture, another important "human endeavor"?
Animals, apparently, would have had to "volunteer" to become food, pull wagons, plow fields and guard livestock.
"Wars are human endeavors. While a person, a political party, or a nation may decide that war is necessary, the animals never do. Like civilians, they often become the victims of war, but now, the U.S. military is deliberately putting animals in harm's way. These animals never enlisted, they know nothing of Iraq or Saddam Hussein, and they probably won't survive," argues PETA.
Animals against the war? Who died and left PETA to decide what animals think?
There's no question that animals haven't "decided" that war in Iraq is necessary. But that's a specious argument since animals simply can't reason on such a level in the first place.
Interdependence between humans and animals has existed for thousands of years. How would human society have progressed if PETA had been around at the dawn of agriculture, another important "human endeavor"?
Animals, apparently, would have had to "volunteer" to become food, pull wagons, plow fields and guard livestock.
Thursday, April 03, 2003
Pandering to the anti-American Left
Democratic Presidential wannabe, John Kerry, calls for a "regime change" in the United States; effectively equates President Bush with Saddam Hussein.
Democratic Presidential wannabe, John Kerry, calls for a "regime change" in the United States; effectively equates President Bush with Saddam Hussein.
Eddie Vedder: Moron Par Excellence
Not only did he impale and smash a mask of President Bush as a sign of "peaceful" opposition to the military disarmament of Saddam Hussein, the vocally pro-abortion lead singer of Pearl Jam uttered this increasingly tiresome and nonsensical leftist mantra:
"Just to clarify . . . we support the troops," Vedder said to cheers. "Our problem is certainly not with anybody over there doing something that not too many of us would do right now, not for these reasons.
"So to the families and those people who know those folks and are related to those folks and are married to those folks, we send our support. We're just confused on how wanting to bring them back safely all of a sudden becomes nonsupport. We love them, we support them. They're not the ones who make the foreign policy. . . . Let's hope for the best and speak our opinions."
Could someone please explain to me what these left-wing morons mean by "support"? They obviously don't support the fact that members of the military are over there and carrying out the duties that they voluntarily accepted. It seems to me that if you characterize President Bush as a perpetrator of tyranny, you are effectively charging every soldier to be an accessory, because obviously the President can't do what he's doing without their help.
Not only did he impale and smash a mask of President Bush as a sign of "peaceful" opposition to the military disarmament of Saddam Hussein, the vocally pro-abortion lead singer of Pearl Jam uttered this increasingly tiresome and nonsensical leftist mantra:
"Just to clarify . . . we support the troops," Vedder said to cheers. "Our problem is certainly not with anybody over there doing something that not too many of us would do right now, not for these reasons.
"So to the families and those people who know those folks and are related to those folks and are married to those folks, we send our support. We're just confused on how wanting to bring them back safely all of a sudden becomes nonsupport. We love them, we support them. They're not the ones who make the foreign policy. . . . Let's hope for the best and speak our opinions."
Could someone please explain to me what these left-wing morons mean by "support"? They obviously don't support the fact that members of the military are over there and carrying out the duties that they voluntarily accepted. It seems to me that if you characterize President Bush as a perpetrator of tyranny, you are effectively charging every soldier to be an accessory, because obviously the President can't do what he's doing without their help.
E-mail and Free Speech
Can unwanted e-mail messages from a disgruntled former employee be regarded as a common law trespass? That's what the California Supreme Court is now considering, and it looks as though the decision will be close.
Kourosh Kenneth Hamidi, a former Intel engineer in Folsom, sent about 100,000 e-mails to the company's work force after losing his job in 1995. Every three or four months for a year and a half, he managed to evade security measures designed to block his Intel-bashing messages.
In response, Intel sued, using an ancient legal theory of trespass to chattel -- property other than land -- in a novel way. The suit attracted widespread attention nationally when the lower courts enjoined Hamidi from trespassing on Intel's cyberspace.
Can unwanted e-mail messages from a disgruntled former employee be regarded as a common law trespass? That's what the California Supreme Court is now considering, and it looks as though the decision will be close.
Kourosh Kenneth Hamidi, a former Intel engineer in Folsom, sent about 100,000 e-mails to the company's work force after losing his job in 1995. Every three or four months for a year and a half, he managed to evade security measures designed to block his Intel-bashing messages.
In response, Intel sued, using an ancient legal theory of trespass to chattel -- property other than land -- in a novel way. The suit attracted widespread attention nationally when the lower courts enjoined Hamidi from trespassing on Intel's cyberspace.
Wednesday, April 02, 2003
How Loud Can A 60-Year Old Get?
For some people, apparently loud enough to disturb an 82 year old pope. (link via Christianity Today)
BTW, "Let It Be" has gotta be one of the most "Catholic haunted" songs that has ever been written and recorded:
When I find myself in times of trouble
Mother Mary comes to me
Speaking words of wisdom, let it be.
And in my hour of darkness
She is standing right in front of me
Speaking words of wisdom, let it be.
Let it be, let it be.
Whisper words of wisdom, let it be.
And when the broken hearted people
Living in the world agree,
There will be an answer, let it be.
For though they may be parted there is
Still a chance that they will see
There will be an answer, let it be.
Let it be, let it be. Yeah
There will be an answer, let it be.
And when the night is cloudy,
There is still a light that shines on me,
Shine on until tomorrow, let it be.
I wake up to the sound of music
Mother Mary comes to me
Speaking words of wisdom, let it be.
Let it be, let it be.
There will be an answer, let it be.
Let it be, let it be,
Whisper words of wisdom, let it be.
For some people, apparently loud enough to disturb an 82 year old pope. (link via Christianity Today)
BTW, "Let It Be" has gotta be one of the most "Catholic haunted" songs that has ever been written and recorded:
When I find myself in times of trouble
Mother Mary comes to me
Speaking words of wisdom, let it be.
And in my hour of darkness
She is standing right in front of me
Speaking words of wisdom, let it be.
Let it be, let it be.
Whisper words of wisdom, let it be.
And when the broken hearted people
Living in the world agree,
There will be an answer, let it be.
For though they may be parted there is
Still a chance that they will see
There will be an answer, let it be.
Let it be, let it be. Yeah
There will be an answer, let it be.
And when the night is cloudy,
There is still a light that shines on me,
Shine on until tomorrow, let it be.
I wake up to the sound of music
Mother Mary comes to me
Speaking words of wisdom, let it be.
Let it be, let it be.
There will be an answer, let it be.
Let it be, let it be,
Whisper words of wisdom, let it be.
If I Was A Bettin' Man...
I'd say the SCOTUS will vote 5-4 to strike down the University of Michigan's affirmative action policy. Within the slim majority, look for O'Connor (and maybe Kennedy) to write a concurring opinion that extols U of M's flawed goals of attaining "diversity".
I'd say the SCOTUS will vote 5-4 to strike down the University of Michigan's affirmative action policy. Within the slim majority, look for O'Connor (and maybe Kennedy) to write a concurring opinion that extols U of M's flawed goals of attaining "diversity".
Up Yours Boxer
Confirmation of judicial nominee for the 9th Circuit moves forward despite Sen. Boxer's refusal to turn in her "blue slip".
Confirmation of judicial nominee for the 9th Circuit moves forward despite Sen. Boxer's refusal to turn in her "blue slip".
Tuesday, March 25, 2003
It's Not Madera County...
Blogging will be lighter than usual for the next week as I jet down to So. Cal (Orange County) for a job interview with the State Compensation Insurance Fund. Call me wild and crazy.
Blogging will be lighter than usual for the next week as I jet down to So. Cal (Orange County) for a job interview with the State Compensation Insurance Fund. Call me wild and crazy.
Catch It Before They Notice the Mistake
Foxnews.com has the following headline: "7TH CALVARY FIGHTS OFF IRAQI ATTACK"
The proper spelling, of course, should be "Cavalry". But hey, there's nothing wrong with a little reminder of the sacrifice He made for us...even if it's inadvertant.
Foxnews.com has the following headline: "7TH CALVARY FIGHTS OFF IRAQI ATTACK"
The proper spelling, of course, should be "Cavalry". But hey, there's nothing wrong with a little reminder of the sacrifice He made for us...even if it's inadvertant.
Traditional Definition of Marriage Could Hang in the Balance
In a potential landmark case, the US Supreme Court will examine Wednesday whether the Texas [anti-sodomy] law violates the equal protection and privacy rights of homosexuals, or whether the law is, instead, a legitimate attempt by the state to uphold its view of sexual morality, family values, and traditional marriage.
Supporters of the law say there is no fundamental right in the Constitution to engage in certain homosexual acts. To strike down the Texas law, they say, could create such a right and lay the legal groundwork for recognition of same-sex marriages.
Opponents of the law say among the most fundamental of rights guaranteed in the Constitution is the right to be let alone. The government does not enjoy the unfettered power to intrude into the most intimate and private aspects of what happens in American bedrooms, they say.
In a potential landmark case, the US Supreme Court will examine Wednesday whether the Texas [anti-sodomy] law violates the equal protection and privacy rights of homosexuals, or whether the law is, instead, a legitimate attempt by the state to uphold its view of sexual morality, family values, and traditional marriage.
Supporters of the law say there is no fundamental right in the Constitution to engage in certain homosexual acts. To strike down the Texas law, they say, could create such a right and lay the legal groundwork for recognition of same-sex marriages.
Opponents of the law say among the most fundamental of rights guaranteed in the Constitution is the right to be let alone. The government does not enjoy the unfettered power to intrude into the most intimate and private aspects of what happens in American bedrooms, they say.
SCOTUS Hears Oral Arguments in Death Penalty Case
The central issue here is whether the criminal defendant was deprived of adequate legal counsel when his attorneys failed to raise his troubled childhood background during the sentencing phase of his conviction.
Kathy Swedlow, deputy director of the Innocence Project and assistant professor at the Thomas M. Cooley Law School in Lansing, Mich., said the Supreme Court's decision in the case, No. 02-311, could have widespread ramifications because the issues are more common than some other highly publicized instances of alleged inadequate legal representation in death penalty cases.
"The drunk lawyers, the sleeping lawyers, are the exceptions," she said. "More often, the lawyers don't have the time or the resources or the training" to represent defendants in capital cases.
The central issue here is whether the criminal defendant was deprived of adequate legal counsel when his attorneys failed to raise his troubled childhood background during the sentencing phase of his conviction.
Kathy Swedlow, deputy director of the Innocence Project and assistant professor at the Thomas M. Cooley Law School in Lansing, Mich., said the Supreme Court's decision in the case, No. 02-311, could have widespread ramifications because the issues are more common than some other highly publicized instances of alleged inadequate legal representation in death penalty cases.
"The drunk lawyers, the sleeping lawyers, are the exceptions," she said. "More often, the lawyers don't have the time or the resources or the training" to represent defendants in capital cases.
In Case There Was Any Confusion
"Given the complexity of factors involved, many of which understandably remain confidential, it is altogether appropriate for members of our armed forces to presume the integrity of our leadership and its judgments, and therefore to carry out their military duties in good conscience," [said] Archbishop Edwin F. O'Brien
"Given the complexity of factors involved, many of which understandably remain confidential, it is altogether appropriate for members of our armed forces to presume the integrity of our leadership and its judgments, and therefore to carry out their military duties in good conscience," [said] Archbishop Edwin F. O'Brien
Paging Louis Farrakhan
Accused soldier's mother says he is being persecuted because of his Islamic faith.
Correction: My post below notes that Akbar might have converted to Islam while he was college. This is not, in fact, the case.
Accused soldier's mother says he is being persecuted because of his Islamic faith.
Correction: My post below notes that Akbar might have converted to Islam while he was college. This is not, in fact, the case.
Monday, March 24, 2003
Women Are Still "Unequal"
A new report shows that women, on average, still make less than men. I say we rectify this by allowing men to have paid maternity leave.
Update: Ok, for purposes of accuracy, it should be "paternity" leave. Of course, the only real time you hear this word is when a lawsuit is filed...
A new report shows that women, on average, still make less than men. I say we rectify this by allowing men to have paid maternity leave.
Update: Ok, for purposes of accuracy, it should be "paternity" leave. Of course, the only real time you hear this word is when a lawsuit is filed...
Mamas, Don't Let Your Babies Go to any University of California Campus
Maybe there is, and maybe there isn't a link, but I personally find it interesting that the guy who allegedly fragged his fellow soldiers in Kuwait is also a graduate from UC Davis, where I understand he converted to Islam.
Maybe there is, and maybe there isn't a link, but I personally find it interesting that the guy who allegedly fragged his fellow soldiers in Kuwait is also a graduate from UC Davis, where I understand he converted to Islam.
Hate is Amusing Sometimes
I didn't actually see mush of the Oscars last night, but I happened to stumble upon Michael Moore's ranting while channel surfing. It was pretty funny to hear the significant amount of booing that was occurring, but even more hilarious was Moore's comment about us living in ficticious times. If that's the case, and nothing is true, then I guess Moore was admitting what most sane people already know about him: he's an obnoxious liar. Thanks for clearing that up for us Mike. Let me know if you ever need help moving to France or Baghdad.
I didn't actually see mush of the Oscars last night, but I happened to stumble upon Michael Moore's ranting while channel surfing. It was pretty funny to hear the significant amount of booing that was occurring, but even more hilarious was Moore's comment about us living in ficticious times. If that's the case, and nothing is true, then I guess Moore was admitting what most sane people already know about him: he's an obnoxious liar. Thanks for clearing that up for us Mike. Let me know if you ever need help moving to France or Baghdad.
Saturday, March 22, 2003
An Observation
Maybe I'm a little late to the party here, but I've noticed that a lot of conservative isolationists (e.g., Pat Bucanan) who oppose this war with Iraq are sounding the same mantra that a lot of anti-war (America/Bush) leftists are emphasizing: Iraq has done nothing to us to provoke this action. Given what we know Iraq is capable of in terms of their weaponry, and their ties to terrorist organizations, I'm curious to know whether these people would only support military action after being given proof that Iraq is responsible for the killing of thousands of innocent American lives. In other words, these opponents seem to outright reject the concept of preemptive military action, and will only accept war on the strict condition that American lives have been lost, a la Pearl Harbor and 9/11. Kind of irresponsible thinking, if you ask me.
Maybe I'm a little late to the party here, but I've noticed that a lot of conservative isolationists (e.g., Pat Bucanan) who oppose this war with Iraq are sounding the same mantra that a lot of anti-war (America/Bush) leftists are emphasizing: Iraq has done nothing to us to provoke this action. Given what we know Iraq is capable of in terms of their weaponry, and their ties to terrorist organizations, I'm curious to know whether these people would only support military action after being given proof that Iraq is responsible for the killing of thousands of innocent American lives. In other words, these opponents seem to outright reject the concept of preemptive military action, and will only accept war on the strict condition that American lives have been lost, a la Pearl Harbor and 9/11. Kind of irresponsible thinking, if you ask me.
Some Anti-War Peaceniks Get Wake Up Call: There Was No Peace Prior to This War
Story link via Drudge.
A group of American anti-war demonstrators who came to Iraq with Japanese human shield volunteers made it across the border today with 14 hours of uncensored video, all shot without Iraqi government minders present. Kenneth Joseph, a young American pastor with the Assyrian Church of the East, told UPI the trip "had shocked me back to reality." Some of the Iraqis he interviewed on camera "told me they would commit suicide if American bombing didn't start. They were willing to see their homes demolished to gain their freedom from Saddam's bloody tyranny. They convinced me that Saddam was a monster the likes of which the world had not seen since Stalin and Hitler. He and his sons are sick sadists. Their tales of slow torture and killing made me ill, such as people put in a huge shredder for plastic products, feet first so they could hear their screams as bodies got chewed up from foot to head."
Story link via Drudge.
A group of American anti-war demonstrators who came to Iraq with Japanese human shield volunteers made it across the border today with 14 hours of uncensored video, all shot without Iraqi government minders present. Kenneth Joseph, a young American pastor with the Assyrian Church of the East, told UPI the trip "had shocked me back to reality." Some of the Iraqis he interviewed on camera "told me they would commit suicide if American bombing didn't start. They were willing to see their homes demolished to gain their freedom from Saddam's bloody tyranny. They convinced me that Saddam was a monster the likes of which the world had not seen since Stalin and Hitler. He and his sons are sick sadists. Their tales of slow torture and killing made me ill, such as people put in a huge shredder for plastic products, feet first so they could hear their screams as bodies got chewed up from foot to head."
Friday, March 21, 2003
I'm Guessing He Didn't Major in Logic at Santa Clara U.
"I'm not embarrassed by America," [NBA player Steve] Nash said. "I'm embarrassed by humanity. More than embarrassed, I think it's really unfortunate in the year 2003 that we're still using violence as a means of conflict resolution. That's what I'm speaking out against."
Once again kids, what is the underlying presumption here? That Saddam Hussein is (was) a reasonable and peaceful man, and that George W. is a warmonger. Odds are, Steve Nash probably couldn't even tell you how he would have handled the situation, much less tell you where Iraq is located on a world map. Bounce ball, Steve. Bounce ball.
"I'm not embarrassed by America," [NBA player Steve] Nash said. "I'm embarrassed by humanity. More than embarrassed, I think it's really unfortunate in the year 2003 that we're still using violence as a means of conflict resolution. That's what I'm speaking out against."
Once again kids, what is the underlying presumption here? That Saddam Hussein is (was) a reasonable and peaceful man, and that George W. is a warmonger. Odds are, Steve Nash probably couldn't even tell you how he would have handled the situation, much less tell you where Iraq is located on a world map. Bounce ball, Steve. Bounce ball.
Whose Factual Analysis Should Trump?
According to Paul Wolfson, the Senate's recent passage of a bill that bans partial-birth abortions may be unconstitutional because it directly challenges the Supreme Court's factual findings on a PBA procedure known as D&X (dilation and extraction). In Stenberg v. Carhart the Court found that because D&X procedures tend to be the least risky on a woman's "health", banning it imposed an "undue burden" upon a woman's right to obtain a "safe" abortion. For Wolfson, Congress is unconstitutionally contradicting the Supreme Court's authority by justifying a ban on D&X procedures upon the factual premise that such procedures are never necessary to preserve the health of a woman.
Maybe I missed it, but I don't know where the Court ever addressed the issue of whether D&X procedures were ever necessary. (Clarification: It seems to me they presumed it without factual basis). Moreover, I don't see where Congress is saying that D&X isn't the least risky PBA procedure on a woman's "health". It may very well be. However, most credible medical evidence supports the notion that D&X is unnecessary. As such, Wolfson's article seems to be nothing more than a veiled rationalization for upholding the legalized butchering of innocent human lives.
According to Paul Wolfson, the Senate's recent passage of a bill that bans partial-birth abortions may be unconstitutional because it directly challenges the Supreme Court's factual findings on a PBA procedure known as D&X (dilation and extraction). In Stenberg v. Carhart the Court found that because D&X procedures tend to be the least risky on a woman's "health", banning it imposed an "undue burden" upon a woman's right to obtain a "safe" abortion. For Wolfson, Congress is unconstitutionally contradicting the Supreme Court's authority by justifying a ban on D&X procedures upon the factual premise that such procedures are never necessary to preserve the health of a woman.
Maybe I missed it, but I don't know where the Court ever addressed the issue of whether D&X procedures were ever necessary. (Clarification: It seems to me they presumed it without factual basis). Moreover, I don't see where Congress is saying that D&X isn't the least risky PBA procedure on a woman's "health". It may very well be. However, most credible medical evidence supports the notion that D&X is unnecessary. As such, Wolfson's article seems to be nothing more than a veiled rationalization for upholding the legalized butchering of innocent human lives.
A Whole New Meaning to "Where's the Beef?!"
Dave Thomas probably would not have approved Wendy's decision to sponsor same-sex kissing on TV.
Dave Thomas probably would not have approved Wendy's decision to sponsor same-sex kissing on TV.
Idiots
Anti-America/Bush "peace" protestors at UC Berkeley.
UC Berkeley Professor of Peace and Conflict Studies Michael Nagler, who was on campus during the Vietnam War protests in the 1960s, said he spoke earlier in the day with a Norwegian reporter to whom he said: "Fifty years ago we came and saved you from fascism. It's time for you to return the favor."Nagler, who teaches about nonviolence and meditation, urged the students to boycott the mass media in favor of reports from independent journalists who he says the Pentagon has targeted and plotted to kill.
Anti-America/Bush "peace" protestors at UC Berkeley.
UC Berkeley Professor of Peace and Conflict Studies Michael Nagler, who was on campus during the Vietnam War protests in the 1960s, said he spoke earlier in the day with a Norwegian reporter to whom he said: "Fifty years ago we came and saved you from fascism. It's time for you to return the favor."Nagler, who teaches about nonviolence and meditation, urged the students to boycott the mass media in favor of reports from independent journalists who he says the Pentagon has targeted and plotted to kill.
Fighting to Stay Relevant...
...chief surrender monkey Jacko Chirac vows not to go along with a UN resolution that would "authorize" the U.S. and Britain to administer postwar Iraq.
...chief surrender monkey Jacko Chirac vows not to go along with a UN resolution that would "authorize" the U.S. and Britain to administer postwar Iraq.
Thursday, March 20, 2003
Zags Win First Round Game
My NCAA tournament adopted school, Gonzaga won its first round game today 74-69. Unfortunately, they get #1 seeded Arizona next. As far as some of the rest of my first round Catholic school predictions are concerned, as of this writing, Creighton is behind but catching up, and the Notre Dame, Dayton and Duke games have yet to start.
Update: I just discovered I had Duke and Creighton playing the wrong schools. Anyhow, I stand by my predictions on their being victorious.
My NCAA tournament adopted school, Gonzaga won its first round game today 74-69. Unfortunately, they get #1 seeded Arizona next. As far as some of the rest of my first round Catholic school predictions are concerned, as of this writing, Creighton is behind but catching up, and the Notre Dame, Dayton and Duke games have yet to start.
Update: I just discovered I had Duke and Creighton playing the wrong schools. Anyhow, I stand by my predictions on their being victorious.
Seriously Now...
...are there that many people who think French's Mustard is originally from France?
...are there that many people who think French's Mustard is originally from France?
Aw, C'mon!
American troops are barred from openly wearing crosses and Stars of David so as to avoid offending Muslims.
American troops are barred from openly wearing crosses and Stars of David so as to avoid offending Muslims.
San Francisco Bay Area: Idiot Central of the World
Check out these comments from Congressman Pete Stark just before yesterday's air strikes:
"I think unleashing 3,000 smart bombs against the city of Baghdad in the first several days of the war ... to me, if those were unleashed against the San Francisco Bay Area, I would call that an act of extreme terrorism," Democrat Pete Stark told the San Francisco Chronicle...
"You can't send in 3,000 bombs without some of them going awry, in spite of the military's claims about accuracy," Stark told the Chronicle. "If they get two-thirds accuracy, that means that 1,000 bombs will explode (off target) inside a city of 6 million people. To me, that's a terrorist act."
Check out these comments from Congressman Pete Stark just before yesterday's air strikes:
"I think unleashing 3,000 smart bombs against the city of Baghdad in the first several days of the war ... to me, if those were unleashed against the San Francisco Bay Area, I would call that an act of extreme terrorism," Democrat Pete Stark told the San Francisco Chronicle...
"You can't send in 3,000 bombs without some of them going awry, in spite of the military's claims about accuracy," Stark told the Chronicle. "If they get two-thirds accuracy, that means that 1,000 bombs will explode (off target) inside a city of 6 million people. To me, that's a terrorist act."
First Baghdad, Then San Francisco
Moron protestors hit the streets after U.S. launches "target of opportunity" strike. Someone needs to buy this particular idiot a one way ticket to Baghdad to become a human shield.
"We don't want to alienate people. I hope people realize that political murder merits action that inconveniences them," said Quinn Miller, 32, who took the day off from his job for a banking company and said he expected to be arrested for the first time in his life.
Moron protestors hit the streets after U.S. launches "target of opportunity" strike. Someone needs to buy this particular idiot a one way ticket to Baghdad to become a human shield.
"We don't want to alienate people. I hope people realize that political murder merits action that inconveniences them," said Quinn Miller, 32, who took the day off from his job for a banking company and said he expected to be arrested for the first time in his life.
Wednesday, March 19, 2003
Scalia Bans Media From Event Honoring Him for Upholding Free Speech
The media, of course, sees a contradition in this. I personally don't see what's so hard to understand. There's a difference between license and right. While the media has a right to pontificate and "unintentionally" mischaracterize Scalia, it doesn't have a right follow him everywhere with cameras. Scalia, as an individual, is within his rights to license such access.
The media, of course, sees a contradition in this. I personally don't see what's so hard to understand. There's a difference between license and right. While the media has a right to pontificate and "unintentionally" mischaracterize Scalia, it doesn't have a right follow him everywhere with cameras. Scalia, as an individual, is within his rights to license such access.
Friends Don't Let Friends Watch Porn and Drive
This bill by the Tennessee state senate makes sense in a lot of practical ways. In addition to not exposing kids to porn, think of all the accidents that will now be avoided from drivers not suddenly going blind.
This bill by the Tennessee state senate makes sense in a lot of practical ways. In addition to not exposing kids to porn, think of all the accidents that will now be avoided from drivers not suddenly going blind.
Tuesday, March 18, 2003
Predictions
Under the presumption that the NCAA Tournament goes on as scheduled, here are my Catholic school predictions for the first round: Dayton over Tulsa; Marquette (isn't that a French name?) over Holy Cross; Gonzaga over Cincinatti; Notre Dame (French?) over Wisc.-Mil.; Creighton over Western Kentucky; Auburn over St. Joe's (not really an upset pick, because the Atlantic 10 is lame); Xavier over Troy State; Stanford over San Diego; Manhattan over Syracuse (upset pick); Duke (honorary Catholic team because of Coach K)over Central Michigan.
Under the presumption that the NCAA Tournament goes on as scheduled, here are my Catholic school predictions for the first round: Dayton over Tulsa; Marquette (isn't that a French name?) over Holy Cross; Gonzaga over Cincinatti; Notre Dame (French?) over Wisc.-Mil.; Creighton over Western Kentucky; Auburn over St. Joe's (not really an upset pick, because the Atlantic 10 is lame); Xavier over Troy State; Stanford over San Diego; Manhattan over Syracuse (upset pick); Duke (honorary Catholic team because of Coach K)over Central Michigan.
Hollywood Hypocrisy Knows No Bounds
Actor Martin Sheen, who is Catholic, says that Hollywood anti-war (i.e, anti-America and Bush) activists deserve respect, because as people whose statements normally get publicized by the media, they have have a responsibility "to give voice to the voiceless and a presence to the marginalized." Too bad Martin is hypocritically pro-abortion; otherwise, I'd actually give some legitimacy to his uninformed rantings.
Actor Martin Sheen, who is Catholic, says that Hollywood anti-war (i.e, anti-America and Bush) activists deserve respect, because as people whose statements normally get publicized by the media, they have have a responsibility "to give voice to the voiceless and a presence to the marginalized." Too bad Martin is hypocritically pro-abortion; otherwise, I'd actually give some legitimacy to his uninformed rantings.
Friday, March 14, 2003
New Catholic College Proposed Near Sacto
Brought to you by the same folks who established St. Mary's College in Moraga, CA. No word yet on whether they plan to have a basketball team.
Brought to you by the same folks who established St. Mary's College in Moraga, CA. No word yet on whether they plan to have a basketball team.
Quote of the Day
"[Bill] O'Reilly's ramblings about the pope do not make him an anti-Catholic. But it does make him an ignoramus."
-- William Donohue, March 14, 2003
"[Bill] O'Reilly's ramblings about the pope do not make him an anti-Catholic. But it does make him an ignoramus."
-- William Donohue, March 14, 2003
Thursday, March 13, 2003
Land of the Pagan Gods
Somewhat "inspired" by the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeal's infamous Pledge of Allegiance decision , a guy calls me today to ask if the California State Seal can also be regarded as unconstitutional since it contains a drawing of a Roman goddess named Minerva. Good question. However, in light of the Ninth Circuit's decision in Alvarado v. San Jose, where a city commissioned statue of an Aztec god named Quetzalcoatl was found not to be a violation of Establishment Clause, the State Seal is probably safe. Nice try, though.
Somewhat "inspired" by the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeal's infamous Pledge of Allegiance decision , a guy calls me today to ask if the California State Seal can also be regarded as unconstitutional since it contains a drawing of a Roman goddess named Minerva. Good question. However, in light of the Ninth Circuit's decision in Alvarado v. San Jose, where a city commissioned statue of an Aztec god named Quetzalcoatl was found not to be a violation of Establishment Clause, the State Seal is probably safe. Nice try, though.
PBA Ban Passes Senate
Of the 33 Senators that voted against outlawing this barbarous act of inhumanity, I'm guessing all of them are probably opposed to militarily disarming Iraq because of all the "death and destruction" that will occur.
Of the 33 Senators that voted against outlawing this barbarous act of inhumanity, I'm guessing all of them are probably opposed to militarily disarming Iraq because of all the "death and destruction" that will occur.
Let's Be Anti-Dimwits
I'm probably not original in suggesting this, but someone in L.A. (YAF) should organize a bunch of people to protest the upcoming Academy Awards Show with big picket signs containing the half-witted anti-America/Bush quotes of selected Hollywood mental midgets like Barbara Streisand and George Clooney. I can envision some good-natured anti-dimwit effigy burnings as well.
I'm probably not original in suggesting this, but someone in L.A. (YAF) should organize a bunch of people to protest the upcoming Academy Awards Show with big picket signs containing the half-witted anti-America/Bush quotes of selected Hollywood mental midgets like Barbara Streisand and George Clooney. I can envision some good-natured anti-dimwit effigy burnings as well.
Wednesday, March 12, 2003
Buchanan: Torturing Terrorists is Moral
Is the deliberate infliction of pain always immoral? Of course not. Twisting another kid's arm to make him tell where he hid your stolen bicycle is not wrong. Parents spank children to punish them and drive home the lessons of living good lives. Even the caning of that American kid in Singapore that caused a firestorm was not immoral.
Coincidentally, I had to write a paper on this topic a couple of years ago in a law school jurisprudence class. I think I came down on the side of being against it.
Is the deliberate infliction of pain always immoral? Of course not. Twisting another kid's arm to make him tell where he hid your stolen bicycle is not wrong. Parents spank children to punish them and drive home the lessons of living good lives. Even the caning of that American kid in Singapore that caused a firestorm was not immoral.
Coincidentally, I had to write a paper on this topic a couple of years ago in a law school jurisprudence class. I think I came down on the side of being against it.
She Was Running Her Own Little Political Sweatshop
A college professor violated her student's free-speech rights when she ordered them to write anti-war letters to President Bush and penalized students who refused the assignment... The letters were part of a required speech class taught by Rosalyn Kahn, who was put on a leave of absence last week. Her classes at Pasadena and Los Angeles City College are also being examined to determine if additional letters were sent from those students.
A college professor violated her student's free-speech rights when she ordered them to write anti-war letters to President Bush and penalized students who refused the assignment... The letters were part of a required speech class taught by Rosalyn Kahn, who was put on a leave of absence last week. Her classes at Pasadena and Los Angeles City College are also being examined to determine if additional letters were sent from those students.
Monday, March 10, 2003
Mel Gibson: Sedevacantist
A news story on a controversial (and probably sensationalized) article about Mel Gibson, his faith and his father.
The actor has been especially forthcoming about his religious affiliation recently. Gibson is building a traditionalist church on a 9,300-square-foot complex in Malibu, Calif., for about 70 members, the Times said. He is serving as the director, chief executive officer and sole benefactor of the church, which intends to conduct its Sunday Mass entirely in Latin. The property was purchased by a church group called Holy Family.
A news story on a controversial (and probably sensationalized) article about Mel Gibson, his faith and his father.
The actor has been especially forthcoming about his religious affiliation recently. Gibson is building a traditionalist church on a 9,300-square-foot complex in Malibu, Calif., for about 70 members, the Times said. He is serving as the director, chief executive officer and sole benefactor of the church, which intends to conduct its Sunday Mass entirely in Latin. The property was purchased by a church group called Holy Family.
Friday, March 07, 2003
The War Is Just
An opinion by Catholic U. Law School dean Douglas Kmiec.
In the classic Catholic position on just war articulated centuries ago by Augustine and Aquinas, the strict, moral duty to maintain the security of others is placed squarely upon the designated leadership of one's own nation. President Bush is accountable for our security, the United Nations is not. With all due respect to Cardinal Laghi, the Vatican envoy who visited with the president earlier this week, the legality and justice of this war does not depend upon the view of the Security Council, which has never had the direct responsibility of our continued well being.
An opinion by Catholic U. Law School dean Douglas Kmiec.
In the classic Catholic position on just war articulated centuries ago by Augustine and Aquinas, the strict, moral duty to maintain the security of others is placed squarely upon the designated leadership of one's own nation. President Bush is accountable for our security, the United Nations is not. With all due respect to Cardinal Laghi, the Vatican envoy who visited with the president earlier this week, the legality and justice of this war does not depend upon the view of the Security Council, which has never had the direct responsibility of our continued well being.
What Should Have Been Asked
I was listening to an interview with Fox's Tony Snow this morning, and he made an insightful observation that not one reporter during last night's Presidential Press Conference asked whether it was true that Blix and his inspection boys were'nt using most of the intelligence information that the U.S. was giving them. After hearing some of the questions that were asked, it seemed the only thing those lefty reporters cared about was why we were antagonizing France and Germany. Nitwits.
I was listening to an interview with Fox's Tony Snow this morning, and he made an insightful observation that not one reporter during last night's Presidential Press Conference asked whether it was true that Blix and his inspection boys were'nt using most of the intelligence information that the U.S. was giving them. After hearing some of the questions that were asked, it seemed the only thing those lefty reporters cared about was why we were antagonizing France and Germany. Nitwits.
How Can You Undo What Isn't There?
A judge in Texas grants a "same sex divorce" even though gay "marriages" aren't recognized in that state.
A judge in Texas grants a "same sex divorce" even though gay "marriages" aren't recognized in that state.
Thursday, March 06, 2003
Apologetics Timeout: Did St. Paul Subscribe to Sola Scriptura?
Absolutely not. In Acts 20:35, for example, St. Paul directly attibutes a quote to Jesus ("It is a more blessed thing to give, rather than to receive") that is nowhere to be found in the four written Gospels. Coupled with the fact that St. Paul in this verse was reminding his audience of this quote, it seems pretty clear that the true and one Church of Christ was as reliant on Tradition as it was, and still is, on the written Scriptures.
Absolutely not. In Acts 20:35, for example, St. Paul directly attibutes a quote to Jesus ("It is a more blessed thing to give, rather than to receive") that is nowhere to be found in the four written Gospels. Coupled with the fact that St. Paul in this verse was reminding his audience of this quote, it seems pretty clear that the true and one Church of Christ was as reliant on Tradition as it was, and still is, on the written Scriptures.
GOP Fails to End Filibuster on Estrada Nomination
Fine. If those idiotic Dems want to "debate", make 'em do it continuously 24-7 with the added proviso that should no comments on the Estrada nomination be personally offered by a Senator within 5 minutes from the last speaker, the filibuster is declared over and an up and down vote will be taken.
Fine. If those idiotic Dems want to "debate", make 'em do it continuously 24-7 with the added proviso that should no comments on the Estrada nomination be personally offered by a Senator within 5 minutes from the last speaker, the filibuster is declared over and an up and down vote will be taken.
Wednesday, March 05, 2003
SCOTUS Upholds California's 3 Strikes Law
This is probably one issue where I differ from most conservatives. I just have a fundamental problem with someone being given a 25 year-life sentence for trying to steal a couple of golf clubs.
This is probably one issue where I differ from most conservatives. I just have a fundamental problem with someone being given a 25 year-life sentence for trying to steal a couple of golf clubs.
Tuesday, March 04, 2003
Breaking News
The California Court of Appeals for the Fourth District has reversed a lower court ruling that Federal ERISA laws preempt a state-based lawsuit filed by a lesbian who was denied intrauterine insemination treatments by a San Diego women's clinic. As you'll see near the end of the opinion, the Court refused to address issues raised by yours truly in a short, but concise, "friend of the court" brief.
The California Court of Appeals for the Fourth District has reversed a lower court ruling that Federal ERISA laws preempt a state-based lawsuit filed by a lesbian who was denied intrauterine insemination treatments by a San Diego women's clinic. As you'll see near the end of the opinion, the Court refused to address issues raised by yours truly in a short, but concise, "friend of the court" brief.
Monday, March 03, 2003
"Jeneane Garofalo is a Short Fat Idiot"
A guy named Vox, and his reaction to J-Gar's uninformed blatherings on the impending war with Iraq.
She refused to answer direct questions but instead responded with questions of her own, denied easily verifiable fact and became quite emotional when presented with an obvious historical parallel...And then, there was the ludicrous lie, which scored a solid 7.5 on the Goebbels scale by claiming 32 million members for the anti-war group Win Without War. Just to put this in perspective, the largest Protestant denomination in the country, the Southern Baptist Convention, has 16 million members. Given that the current U.S. population is only about 290 million people, this figure is clearly absurd, even more so than the 600,000 claimed for the recent peace protest which was only inflated by a factor of 10.
A guy named Vox, and his reaction to J-Gar's uninformed blatherings on the impending war with Iraq.
She refused to answer direct questions but instead responded with questions of her own, denied easily verifiable fact and became quite emotional when presented with an obvious historical parallel...And then, there was the ludicrous lie, which scored a solid 7.5 on the Goebbels scale by claiming 32 million members for the anti-war group Win Without War. Just to put this in perspective, the largest Protestant denomination in the country, the Southern Baptist Convention, has 16 million members. Given that the current U.S. population is only about 290 million people, this figure is clearly absurd, even more so than the 600,000 claimed for the recent peace protest which was only inflated by a factor of 10.
Friday, February 28, 2003
Public Schools and Teachers Are Now On Notice
I hadn't thought of this until someone called to find out, but the Ninth Circuit's rejection of a rehearing on the Pledge case now makes the three-judge panel decision on the unconstitutionality of "under God" binding on all western states (i.e., those within the jurisdiction of the Ninth Circuit). At least I think it is, judging from the language of the stay that had been imposed back in June of last year.
I hadn't thought of this until someone called to find out, but the Ninth Circuit's rejection of a rehearing on the Pledge case now makes the three-judge panel decision on the unconstitutionality of "under God" binding on all western states (i.e., those within the jurisdiction of the Ninth Circuit). At least I think it is, judging from the language of the stay that had been imposed back in June of last year.
On Second Thought
...it's probably best that the Pledge case go before the Supreme Court (assuming "cert" is granted). For one thing, a likely reversal will once again show how incredibly out of touch the Ninth Circuit is with the law and Constitution. Second, the SCOTUS will be given a chance to provide more clarification on the fact that government sponsorship of religious expressions (e.g., state legislatures retaining chaplains to give invocations) does not constitute, and is distinguishable from, an establishment of religion. Third, the SCOTUS can definitively eliminate the silly notion that saying something with "God" in it automatically turns the utterance into a religious act.
...it's probably best that the Pledge case go before the Supreme Court (assuming "cert" is granted). For one thing, a likely reversal will once again show how incredibly out of touch the Ninth Circuit is with the law and Constitution. Second, the SCOTUS will be given a chance to provide more clarification on the fact that government sponsorship of religious expressions (e.g., state legislatures retaining chaplains to give invocations) does not constitute, and is distinguishable from, an establishment of religion. Third, the SCOTUS can definitively eliminate the silly notion that saying something with "God" in it automatically turns the utterance into a religious act.
And the Streak of Stupidity Continues
The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals denies a reheaing of the Pledge of Allegiance case.
The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals denies a reheaing of the Pledge of Allegiance case.
Good Lent Prep
Last night, my parish just had its first of six weekly adult classes on the Passion of Christ, as explained by St. Thomas Aquinas in the Summa Theologica. We are focusing particularly on Part III, Questions 46-52.
Last night, my parish just had its first of six weekly adult classes on the Passion of Christ, as explained by St. Thomas Aquinas in the Summa Theologica. We are focusing particularly on Part III, Questions 46-52.
Thursday, February 27, 2003
A Call For Papal Intervention
Liberal Wash. (Com)Post commentator Mary McGrory thinks JPII could be key in averting a war with Iraq.
His holiness cannot be attacked like other war critics, such as France and Germany. Even Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld, the designated hit man for "appeasers," dares not inveigh against the supreme pontiff of a church with a congregation of a billion. Ari Fleischer, spokesman for a White House that is now wooing nations such as Angola, said stiffly, "It is the papacy's right to engage in dialogue."
Liberal Wash. (Com)Post commentator Mary McGrory thinks JPII could be key in averting a war with Iraq.
His holiness cannot be attacked like other war critics, such as France and Germany. Even Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld, the designated hit man for "appeasers," dares not inveigh against the supreme pontiff of a church with a congregation of a billion. Ari Fleischer, spokesman for a White House that is now wooing nations such as Angola, said stiffly, "It is the papacy's right to engage in dialogue."
Yes, That Was a Pen in His Pocket
One of those rare cases where weaseling out of jury duty might cost you some comical entertainment.
One of those rare cases where weaseling out of jury duty might cost you some comical entertainment.
Wednesday, February 26, 2003
Freakin' Nazis
The L.A. Bar "Association" lends support to banning state judges from associating with the Boy Scouts.
The L.A. Bar "Association" lends support to banning state judges from associating with the Boy Scouts.
Coffee, Coke, or Confession?
A German priest is dividing his time between preaching and working as an air steward.
Roland Seidel, 43, says his part-time job as a Lufthansa flight attendant has a lot in common with his work for the church.
A German priest is dividing his time between preaching and working as an air steward.
Roland Seidel, 43, says his part-time job as a Lufthansa flight attendant has a lot in common with his work for the church.
SCOTUS Rules RICO Doesn't Apply to Pro-Life Demonstrators
A great First Amendment victory to say the least. But what's even more surprising is that the final SCOTUS vote was 8 to1 (Stevens dissenting).
A great First Amendment victory to say the least. But what's even more surprising is that the final SCOTUS vote was 8 to1 (Stevens dissenting).
Tuesday, February 25, 2003
Only Peace
This seems fairly obvious, but I'm wondering if the Vatican is privy to information that either the U.S. Government isn't telling us or doesn't know.
International diplomacy cannot accept a precipitation toward war without having explored every path to avoid the conflict"..."Every smallest possibility is for the better, so that from a crack a path may be opened to the hope of peace."
This seems fairly obvious, but I'm wondering if the Vatican is privy to information that either the U.S. Government isn't telling us or doesn't know.
International diplomacy cannot accept a precipitation toward war without having explored every path to avoid the conflict"..."Every smallest possibility is for the better, so that from a crack a path may be opened to the hope of peace."
It Pays to Check Back and Often
I don't know what it is, but lately I've been having to go back and repeatedly edit things I've just posted because what I previously wrote either doesn't make sense or is missing an important word. Call it my own version of obsessive-compulsion disorder, I guess. (Does that make sense? Do I need to reword that? Where's that spell check...)
I don't know what it is, but lately I've been having to go back and repeatedly edit things I've just posted because what I previously wrote either doesn't make sense or is missing an important word. Call it my own version of obsessive-compulsion disorder, I guess. (Does that make sense? Do I need to reword that? Where's that spell check...)
Teacher Sues Catholic School After Being Fired for Pro-Abortion Beliefs
The 21-page complaint [to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission] also alleges that Curay-Cramer's dismissal based on her abortion rights views violates the Pregnancy Discrimination Act, which prohibits firing an employee for having an abortion. The complaint contends that though Curay-Cramer herself didn't have an abortion, she is entitled to the act's protections because of her views supporting abortion.
Talk about a tortured argument. Plus, I've filed several complaints for clients with the EEOC, and not once have I ever submitted anything longer than a page. If the attorney for this teacher thinks that the agent assigned to this case is going to be impressed by his 21-page rambling, he better think again. More likely is that the agent will see the lengthiness of the complaint, decide not to investigate, and shoot off a right to sue letter sooner than he normally would have.
The 21-page complaint [to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission] also alleges that Curay-Cramer's dismissal based on her abortion rights views violates the Pregnancy Discrimination Act, which prohibits firing an employee for having an abortion. The complaint contends that though Curay-Cramer herself didn't have an abortion, she is entitled to the act's protections because of her views supporting abortion.
Talk about a tortured argument. Plus, I've filed several complaints for clients with the EEOC, and not once have I ever submitted anything longer than a page. If the attorney for this teacher thinks that the agent assigned to this case is going to be impressed by his 21-page rambling, he better think again. More likely is that the agent will see the lengthiness of the complaint, decide not to investigate, and shoot off a right to sue letter sooner than he normally would have.
Apologetics Timeout
Whenever I debate the legitimacy of Sola Scriptura with a Protestant friend, I always like to bring up the Trinity, and how most Protestants accept it despite the fact that the word does not appear in the Bible. The usual response I get to this is "yeah, but Scripture supports it." While this is true, the problem that my Protestant friends fail to see is that the Bible does not itself provide a definition to "Trinity". When taken out of the Christian context, Trinity simply means three separate things or objects; there is no suggestion that while these three things (i.e., persons) are distinct, they nevertheless subsist in one essence (i.e., God). Indeed, attaching such a definition to Trinity is logically incoherent. Why, then, do most Protestants call the Trinity "the Trinity"? As much as they may deny it, Protestants are more reliant on the authority of the Catholic Church than they think.
Whenever I debate the legitimacy of Sola Scriptura with a Protestant friend, I always like to bring up the Trinity, and how most Protestants accept it despite the fact that the word does not appear in the Bible. The usual response I get to this is "yeah, but Scripture supports it." While this is true, the problem that my Protestant friends fail to see is that the Bible does not itself provide a definition to "Trinity". When taken out of the Christian context, Trinity simply means three separate things or objects; there is no suggestion that while these three things (i.e., persons) are distinct, they nevertheless subsist in one essence (i.e., God). Indeed, attaching such a definition to Trinity is logically incoherent. Why, then, do most Protestants call the Trinity "the Trinity"? As much as they may deny it, Protestants are more reliant on the authority of the Catholic Church than they think.
If This Wasn't So Outrageously Demeaning, It Would Be Comical
PETA equates chickens to victims of the Holocaust.
PETA equates chickens to victims of the Holocaust.
Well This is Odd...
The Vatican will be issuing an anniversary stamp commemorating the assasination attempt on the Pope in 1981.
The Vatican will be issuing an anniversary stamp commemorating the assasination attempt on the Pope in 1981.
Monday, February 24, 2003
Another Reason Why Voting Should Be Restricted to the Sane
A lawsuit to a stop potential war against Iraq is thrown out. The suit was partially filed by Congressmen John "Commie" Conyers and "Baghdad" Jim McDermott.
U.S. District Judge Joseph Tauro ruled that a federal court can judge the war policies of political branches of government only when actions taken by Congress and the president are in conflict -- a situation that does not exist today.
The civil lawsuit, brought by three members of the military, six parents of U.S. troops and six members of Congress, sought an injunction to stop potential U.S. military action on the grounds that only Congress has the right to declare war.
A lawsuit to a stop potential war against Iraq is thrown out. The suit was partially filed by Congressmen John "Commie" Conyers and "Baghdad" Jim McDermott.
U.S. District Judge Joseph Tauro ruled that a federal court can judge the war policies of political branches of government only when actions taken by Congress and the president are in conflict -- a situation that does not exist today.
The civil lawsuit, brought by three members of the military, six parents of U.S. troops and six members of Congress, sought an injunction to stop potential U.S. military action on the grounds that only Congress has the right to declare war.
You Gotta Pay Your Props to Da Big JC
What up J?! By all accounts, this is mocking of Christian kitsch. (Link from Christianity Today)
What up J?! By all accounts, this is mocking of Christian kitsch. (Link from Christianity Today)
Sunday, February 23, 2003
"I've Not Only Played a Military Expert in the Movies, I Really Think I Am One"
Link from Drudge: Wash. (Com)Post decides to waste print space on actor George Clooney's views on Iraq.
"We can't beat anyone anymore," [said] Clooney, who has called it unfair that Americans opposed to war are being branded unpatriotic.
It's either unpatriotic or full-on idiots George. Which would you and Jeneane "I know what I'm talking about, because I watch Dan Rather" Garafalo prefer? I'm more than accommodating.
Link from Drudge: Wash. (Com)Post decides to waste print space on actor George Clooney's views on Iraq.
"We can't beat anyone anymore," [said] Clooney, who has called it unfair that Americans opposed to war are being branded unpatriotic.
It's either unpatriotic or full-on idiots George. Which would you and Jeneane "I know what I'm talking about, because I watch Dan Rather" Garafalo prefer? I'm more than accommodating.
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