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.
Thursday, March 06, 2003
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.
Saturday, February 22, 2003
Atheist Wacko Christopher Hitchens Must Be Going Crazy Right About Now
The Pope will beatify Mother Teresa in October.
The Pope will beatify Mother Teresa in October.
Friday, February 21, 2003
The Only Thing Surprising About This is That the Chronicle is Reporting It
Nancy Pelosi is accused of pork-barrel polics. She successfully appropriates $1million for a University of San Francisco "think tank" (do they do that anymore at USF?) that was started by her campaign treasurer.
Nancy Pelosi is accused of pork-barrel polics. She successfully appropriates $1million for a University of San Francisco "think tank" (do they do that anymore at USF?) that was started by her campaign treasurer.
Message to ABA: Some Judges Aren't Even Worth the Minimum Wage!
While the pay of federal judges has not actually been reduced, it has not kept pace with inflation, according to American Bar Association President Alfred P. Carlton, Jr.
"Federal judges have only been given four out of the last nine cost-of-living allowance increases that everybody else in the federal pay system has gotten," Carlton said.
The current salaries for federal judges range from $142,324 for magistrate and bankruptcy judges to $198,600 for the chief justice of the U.S. Supreme Court, according to figures provided by the Administrative Office of the United States Courts.
While the pay of federal judges has not actually been reduced, it has not kept pace with inflation, according to American Bar Association President Alfred P. Carlton, Jr.
"Federal judges have only been given four out of the last nine cost-of-living allowance increases that everybody else in the federal pay system has gotten," Carlton said.
The current salaries for federal judges range from $142,324 for magistrate and bankruptcy judges to $198,600 for the chief justice of the U.S. Supreme Court, according to figures provided by the Administrative Office of the United States Courts.
Thursday, February 20, 2003
Reason #2 Billion for Why I Hate the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals
The Court upholds a school's decision to censure most of the religious references made in a student's graduation speech. According to the Court, the school's action was justified because "the "proselytizing" nature of parts of the speech amounted to "forcing" the audience at the commencement ceremony to take part in a religious exercise."
Go here to read the full opinion in all its stupidity.
The Court upholds a school's decision to censure most of the religious references made in a student's graduation speech. According to the Court, the school's action was justified because "the "proselytizing" nature of parts of the speech amounted to "forcing" the audience at the commencement ceremony to take part in a religious exercise."
Go here to read the full opinion in all its stupidity.
Pope "Attacks" Sarcasm
Seems there is at least one person I know of in St. Blog's who should be very interested in this story.
Seems there is at least one person I know of in St. Blog's who should be very interested in this story.
BTW,
...if you're at the California Republican Party Spring Convention this weekend, drop on by the Pacific Justice Institute table and say "hi". I'll probably be hanging around, and maybe manning the table for a bit, on Saturday.
...if you're at the California Republican Party Spring Convention this weekend, drop on by the Pacific Justice Institute table and say "hi". I'll probably be hanging around, and maybe manning the table for a bit, on Saturday.
Mickey-D's Dragged Back Into Court
You know, if the plaintiffs who filed this suit spent as much time, money and energy into exercising as they did into going down to the Golden Arches to scarf Big Macs and french fries...
You know, if the plaintiffs who filed this suit spent as much time, money and energy into exercising as they did into going down to the Golden Arches to scarf Big Macs and french fries...
Impact on Religious Liberty
I frankly think this should be appealed and fought all the way to the Supreme Court: Mass. judge says the Boston Archdiocese can't use the First Amendment to "shield" itself from sex abuse lawsuits.
I frankly think this should be appealed and fought all the way to the Supreme Court: Mass. judge says the Boston Archdiocese can't use the First Amendment to "shield" itself from sex abuse lawsuits.
Wednesday, February 19, 2003
Must be Something in the Vermont Syrup That Makes Them Saps
"I have stated over and over again ... that I would object and fight against any filibuster on a judge, whether it is somebody I opposed or supported" -- Patrick Leahy, ranking Democrat on the Senate Judiciary Committee and prime supporter of the filibuster against Miguel Estrada (Congressional Record, June 18, 1998).
"I have stated over and over again ... that I would object and fight against any filibuster on a judge, whether it is somebody I opposed or supported" -- Patrick Leahy, ranking Democrat on the Senate Judiciary Committee and prime supporter of the filibuster against Miguel Estrada (Congressional Record, June 18, 1998).
Tuesday, February 18, 2003
If Only He Were Catholic...
Expressions of faith and values are familiar ground for American presidents, and this one [George Bush], who became a born-again Christian in the 1980s after concluding he was drinking too much, is no exception. Yet lately, Bush has gone beyond his usual broad remarks on the power of faith in general to use language and ideas specific to Christianity.
Expressions of faith and values are familiar ground for American presidents, and this one [George Bush], who became a born-again Christian in the 1980s after concluding he was drinking too much, is no exception. Yet lately, Bush has gone beyond his usual broad remarks on the power of faith in general to use language and ideas specific to Christianity.
Monday, February 17, 2003
Basketball's Bill Clinton
Federal perjury and obstruction case against Suckramento Queen Chris Webber may be dropped because of the coincidental death of a key witness. Somebody find Larry Nichols to get to the bottom of this!
Federal perjury and obstruction case against Suckramento Queen Chris Webber may be dropped because of the coincidental death of a key witness. Somebody find Larry Nichols to get to the bottom of this!
God and the Presidents
As secular as this culture and country is, it's hard to believe that at one time, candidates for the Presidency were expected to be devout religious men.
As secular as this culture and country is, it's hard to believe that at one time, candidates for the Presidency were expected to be devout religious men.
Friday, February 14, 2003
Ingrates
In light of the fact that Miguel Estrada once filed a brief on behalf of the NOW where he supported the application of federal anti-racketeering statutes to pro-life demonstrators, I quite frankly find it a little difficult to understand why the NOW is so vehemently opposed to his nomination to the DC Court of Appeals. The man is obviously able to divorce his idelogical beliefs from his jurisprudence.
In light of the fact that Miguel Estrada once filed a brief on behalf of the NOW where he supported the application of federal anti-racketeering statutes to pro-life demonstrators, I quite frankly find it a little difficult to understand why the NOW is so vehemently opposed to his nomination to the DC Court of Appeals. The man is obviously able to divorce his idelogical beliefs from his jurisprudence.
Liberal White Guilt and Racial Payback
Out of the depths of stupidity known as Critical Race Theory, a Canadian appeals court rules that historic racism against blacks should be factored into the criminal sentencings of individuals who belong to said group of people.
In the unanimous Ontario Court of Appeal decision, Mr. Justice Marc Rosenberg writes that "systemic racism and the background factors faced by black youths in Toronto are important matters and in another case I believe that they could affect the sentence."
Rosenberg's decision quotes at length from reports filed in the court case that outline racism in education, society and the justice system (including the 1995 Report of the Commission on Systemic Racism in the Ontario Criminal Justice System).
Out of the depths of stupidity known as Critical Race Theory, a Canadian appeals court rules that historic racism against blacks should be factored into the criminal sentencings of individuals who belong to said group of people.
In the unanimous Ontario Court of Appeal decision, Mr. Justice Marc Rosenberg writes that "systemic racism and the background factors faced by black youths in Toronto are important matters and in another case I believe that they could affect the sentence."
Rosenberg's decision quotes at length from reports filed in the court case that outline racism in education, society and the justice system (including the 1995 Report of the Commission on Systemic Racism in the Ontario Criminal Justice System).
Thursday, February 13, 2003
The Case for Life Through Kissing
There's speculation that the way a person kisses is something that is developed while in the womb. From a life standpoint, doesn't this lend further support to the assertion that an unborn child is a human being? Or is it in fact possible for something that is not human to later become human?
There's speculation that the way a person kisses is something that is developed while in the womb. From a life standpoint, doesn't this lend further support to the assertion that an unborn child is a human being? Or is it in fact possible for something that is not human to later become human?
First Bad Teeth, Now This
Britain has almost 400,000 registered Jedis. Whoda thought there were that many nerds in the country?
Britain has almost 400,000 registered Jedis. Whoda thought there were that many nerds in the country?
Other States Look to California on Abuse Lawsuits and Statutes of Limitation
"Through our wrong actions, we have opened the door for government to attempt to step more vigorously across the constitutional boundary between the business of religion and the business of government and remake the church in dangerous ways," Mark Chopko, general counsel for the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, said in a recent speech. "Someone has to say, 'Enough is enough' "
I don't have much experience with personal injury actions, but unless there is an intentional tort involved, I really don't see how any diocese can be held civilly liable for shuffling around an abusive priest without the State establishing a standard of conduct for religoius institutions. The problem with the State doing this, of course, is that most religious institutons govern themselves in accordance to specific religious doctrines. Thus, allowing the State to establish standards entails allowing the State to dictate a religious institution's religious beliefs. Doesn't sound very constitutional to me.
"Through our wrong actions, we have opened the door for government to attempt to step more vigorously across the constitutional boundary between the business of religion and the business of government and remake the church in dangerous ways," Mark Chopko, general counsel for the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, said in a recent speech. "Someone has to say, 'Enough is enough' "
I don't have much experience with personal injury actions, but unless there is an intentional tort involved, I really don't see how any diocese can be held civilly liable for shuffling around an abusive priest without the State establishing a standard of conduct for religoius institutions. The problem with the State doing this, of course, is that most religious institutons govern themselves in accordance to specific religious doctrines. Thus, allowing the State to establish standards entails allowing the State to dictate a religious institution's religious beliefs. Doesn't sound very constitutional to me.
Wednesday, February 12, 2003
Progress or Just Women Who Wish They Were Men?
Short blurb here about Annika Sorenstam being invited to play at a PGA tournament. I wonder if she's gonna play off the big boys' tee.
Short blurb here about Annika Sorenstam being invited to play at a PGA tournament. I wonder if she's gonna play off the big boys' tee.
WJNLL -- Would Jesus Need a Law License?
The guy who requested Christ as his lead attorney is pretty loony, but the judge's reply was pretty bizarre itself.
The guy who requested Christ as his lead attorney is pretty loony, but the judge's reply was pretty bizarre itself.
Tuesday, February 11, 2003
Former California Education Chief Let Off the Hook in Whistleblower Case
Too bad the judge didn't find Delaine Eastin's conduct to be more than "unprofessional" in a matter where state taxpayers will be responsible for paying out $4 million in damages. This is a woman, mind you, who last year declared homeschooling in California to be illegal and worthy of criminal prosecution.
Too bad the judge didn't find Delaine Eastin's conduct to be more than "unprofessional" in a matter where state taxpayers will be responsible for paying out $4 million in damages. This is a woman, mind you, who last year declared homeschooling in California to be illegal and worthy of criminal prosecution.
"When You're Heading Into First and Feelin' Somethin' Burst...
Researchers speculate that E.coli induced diarrhea might prevent colon cancer. If the same holds true for diarrhea caused by lactose intolerance, hand me that glass of milk right now!
Researchers speculate that E.coli induced diarrhea might prevent colon cancer. If the same holds true for diarrhea caused by lactose intolerance, hand me that glass of milk right now!
Is Alberto Gonzales Spanish for David Souter?
President Bush may be running a political risk with conservatives if he decides to tap the seemingly pro-abortion White House Counsel for a spot on the SCOTUS.
Social conservatives would feel betrayed — the rank-and-filers, that is, not just the leaders of the Washington groups — since the chief reason they were given to vote for Bush was that he would nominate "strict constructionists" like Scalia and Thomas. But Republican senators are not going to vote against a Bush nominee who's also the first Hispanic nominee to the Supreme Court, whatever conservatives say. Conservative opponents of Gonzales will have to be careful not to threaten more than they can deliver.
President Bush may be running a political risk with conservatives if he decides to tap the seemingly pro-abortion White House Counsel for a spot on the SCOTUS.
Social conservatives would feel betrayed — the rank-and-filers, that is, not just the leaders of the Washington groups — since the chief reason they were given to vote for Bush was that he would nominate "strict constructionists" like Scalia and Thomas. But Republican senators are not going to vote against a Bush nominee who's also the first Hispanic nominee to the Supreme Court, whatever conservatives say. Conservative opponents of Gonzales will have to be careful not to threaten more than they can deliver.
Former U.S. Attorney General Wants to Impeach Bush
First Ramsey Clark calls Christ a terrorist; now, this bit of...tomfoolery.
(Nice enough of a tone for ya, people?)
First Ramsey Clark calls Christ a terrorist; now, this bit of...tomfoolery.
(Nice enough of a tone for ya, people?)
Monday, February 10, 2003
Novak's Case for Just War in Iraq
To tell you the truth, I was convinced for the need to militarily disarm Iraq a few months ago. My only concern at this point is the weather. Apparently, it gets pretty hot in Iraq starting in April. As such, if we're gonna go, we gotta do it soon. Who gives a rats-a&# what those ungrateful Poodles and squarehead Krauts think!
To tell you the truth, I was convinced for the need to militarily disarm Iraq a few months ago. My only concern at this point is the weather. Apparently, it gets pretty hot in Iraq starting in April. As such, if we're gonna go, we gotta do it soon. Who gives a rats-a&# what those ungrateful Poodles and squarehead Krauts think!
Prohibit Students From Praying, and You Can Forget About Getting Any Federal Money
In YOUR FACE Barry Lynn!
In YOUR FACE Barry Lynn!
This Loss to California Would be a Gain for the Country
If, as speculated, positions on the SCOTUS open up, Bush may nominate current California Supreme Court Justice Janice Brown.
Brown is a conservative African-American who’s ruled against affirmative action and abortion rights. Her nomination would let Bush add the court’s third woman and second African-American in one swoop.
If, as speculated, positions on the SCOTUS open up, Bush may nominate current California Supreme Court Justice Janice Brown.
Brown is a conservative African-American who’s ruled against affirmative action and abortion rights. Her nomination would let Bush add the court’s third woman and second African-American in one swoop.
Friday, February 07, 2003
It's So Hard to Find Good Help These Days
Sacramento "Handshake Man" slips by security to give President Bush a "message from God."
Sacramento "Handshake Man" slips by security to give President Bush a "message from God."
More Proof that a Little Knowledge (and Hubris) Can be Very Dangerous
A high schooler sues to get an "A" grade changed to an "A+" so as to increase his chances of becoming valedictorian.
A high schooler sues to get an "A" grade changed to an "A+" so as to increase his chances of becoming valedictorian.
"If You're Gonna Bomb the Jews, Make Sure You Avoid Killing Any Animals!"
PETA is much ticked because Yasser Arafat sponsored a bombing in the West Bank that resulted in the death of a... donkey.
PETA is much ticked because Yasser Arafat sponsored a bombing in the West Bank that resulted in the death of a... donkey.
Dubious Objection or Consistent with Church Doctrine?
North Dakota Bishops oppose proposed state law to criminalize abortion.
In response to a letter from [pro-life activist] Attorney [Peter] Crary requesting support for the bill, Christopher Dodson, Executive Director of the North Dakota Catholic Conference, stated that the bill was unacceptable to the Bishops because it holds culpable the woman who intentionally procures an abortion. “[C]riminalizing the woman,” Mr. Dodson explained, “serves no legitimate purpose[.]”
Mr. Dodson further indicated that even were the proposed legislation to grant the mother legal immunity for killing her own child, it still would not pass muster with the Catholic Bishops of North Dakota because it lacked “a realistic possibility of withstanding constitutional scrutiny.”
North Dakota Bishops oppose proposed state law to criminalize abortion.
In response to a letter from [pro-life activist] Attorney [Peter] Crary requesting support for the bill, Christopher Dodson, Executive Director of the North Dakota Catholic Conference, stated that the bill was unacceptable to the Bishops because it holds culpable the woman who intentionally procures an abortion. “[C]riminalizing the woman,” Mr. Dodson explained, “serves no legitimate purpose[.]”
Mr. Dodson further indicated that even were the proposed legislation to grant the mother legal immunity for killing her own child, it still would not pass muster with the Catholic Bishops of North Dakota because it lacked “a realistic possibility of withstanding constitutional scrutiny.”
Thursday, February 06, 2003
In Honor of Prez. Reagan's Birthday: There They Go Again!
Senate Dems will filibuster Estrada nomination; fatboy Kennedy asserts nominee is "short-tempered".
From what I've heard, even though Estrada is considered to be conservative, he did come out in support of applying the RICO statutes against pro-life demonstrators. I'd appreciate it if anyone can confirm this.
Senate Dems will filibuster Estrada nomination; fatboy Kennedy asserts nominee is "short-tempered".
From what I've heard, even though Estrada is considered to be conservative, he did come out in support of applying the RICO statutes against pro-life demonstrators. I'd appreciate it if anyone can confirm this.
Fence-Post Mary Apparition in Australia
Somehow, I don't think Rome will be designating this as being worthy of belief. I mean, geez, the only way you can make anything out is by standing 1,000 feet away and being near sighted.
Somehow, I don't think Rome will be designating this as being worthy of belief. I mean, geez, the only way you can make anything out is by standing 1,000 feet away and being near sighted.
Student at Ave Maria College Loses Public Financial Aid Because of Theology Major
This story is almost a carbon copy of Davey v. Locke, a case that went all the way up to the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals last year. Despite the general looniness of the 9th Circuit, the student actually won this important religious liberty case.
Interestingly enough, the Davey case involved a state statute that has its roots in early 20th century American anti-Catholic sentiment. Commonly referred to as a "Blaine Amendment", several states not only have this statute, its application has been expanded beyond targeting the Catholic Church to anything that is Christian.
This story is almost a carbon copy of Davey v. Locke, a case that went all the way up to the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals last year. Despite the general looniness of the 9th Circuit, the student actually won this important religious liberty case.
Interestingly enough, the Davey case involved a state statute that has its roots in early 20th century American anti-Catholic sentiment. Commonly referred to as a "Blaine Amendment", several states not only have this statute, its application has been expanded beyond targeting the Catholic Church to anything that is Christian.
Wednesday, February 05, 2003
Buddha U.
What would be more strange than a Newman Center on the campus of good 'ol Bob Jones University? How about a Newman Center on the campus of a Buddhist college like Soka University in Aliso Viejo, CA? Heck, I find it kind of wierd that there's even a Buddhist university in this country. I wonder if there are any beds in the dormitories, or do students just sleep on the floor while sitting in the lotus position? Ohmmmmmmm...
What would be more strange than a Newman Center on the campus of good 'ol Bob Jones University? How about a Newman Center on the campus of a Buddhist college like Soka University in Aliso Viejo, CA? Heck, I find it kind of wierd that there's even a Buddhist university in this country. I wonder if there are any beds in the dormitories, or do students just sleep on the floor while sitting in the lotus position? Ohmmmmmmm...
Pee Wee Herman Probably Could Have Used This
Japanese scientist invents a rain coat that makes the wearer invisible.
Japanese scientist invents a rain coat that makes the wearer invisible.
Gov. Davis Recall Effort Reemerges
Who knows, maybe it will go somewhere this time.
The talk of recall comes after voters in November begrudgingly re-elected the Democratic governor -- by a scant 5 percent margin -- despite an aggressive campaign against Bill Simon, a relatively unknown Republican opponent.
Election Day proved what opinion polls had long surmised: Davis had not recovered from a steep decline in his popularity during the rolling power blackouts of 2001 and failed to win back many in his own party.
Now, Davis is considered more politically vulnerable as he unveils his plans to fill a budget shortfall estimated at between $26 billion and $35 billion over the next 17 months.
Who knows, maybe it will go somewhere this time.
The talk of recall comes after voters in November begrudgingly re-elected the Democratic governor -- by a scant 5 percent margin -- despite an aggressive campaign against Bill Simon, a relatively unknown Republican opponent.
Election Day proved what opinion polls had long surmised: Davis had not recovered from a steep decline in his popularity during the rolling power blackouts of 2001 and failed to win back many in his own party.
Now, Davis is considered more politically vulnerable as he unveils his plans to fill a budget shortfall estimated at between $26 billion and $35 billion over the next 17 months.
Well Now We Know For Sure He's Guilty
Phil Spector hires O.J. "Dream Teamer" Robert Shapiro to defend him on murder charges.
Interesting Catholic sidenote: Robert Shapiro got his law degree from Loyola Law School in Los Angeles.
Phil Spector hires O.J. "Dream Teamer" Robert Shapiro to defend him on murder charges.
Interesting Catholic sidenote: Robert Shapiro got his law degree from Loyola Law School in Los Angeles.
Tuesday, February 04, 2003
The Right Choice: Catholic University Bookstore Cancels Speaking Appearance by Pro-Abort Politician
All is not lost among the nation's youth -- especially among Catholics.
Sean McConeghy, a 21-year-old senior from Staten Island, N.Y., said he was startled to learn last week that [Eleanor Holmes]Norton was scheduled to visit campus. After complaining unsuccessfully to the president's office, he asked members of the College Republicans and Students for Life to join him in complaining to the bookstore.
"This is nothing specifically against Ms. Norton. It's against the viewpoint," he said. "We felt that giving someone with those viewpoints a forum on this campus would not be in keeping with the principles for which we stand."
All is not lost among the nation's youth -- especially among Catholics.
Sean McConeghy, a 21-year-old senior from Staten Island, N.Y., said he was startled to learn last week that [Eleanor Holmes]Norton was scheduled to visit campus. After complaining unsuccessfully to the president's office, he asked members of the College Republicans and Students for Life to join him in complaining to the bookstore.
"This is nothing specifically against Ms. Norton. It's against the viewpoint," he said. "We felt that giving someone with those viewpoints a forum on this campus would not be in keeping with the principles for which we stand."
Video at Lincoln Memorial Suggests 16th Prez Would Have Been Pro-Homo and Pro-Abort
Incredibly doubtful if you ask me, but some ill-formed minds of the teenaged variety are apparently being sucked into this bit of tax-funded propaganda and drivel.
"I liked it... I think [Lincoln] would have [supported homosexual and abortion rights] because that's how Lincoln was; he was very supportive of the people. He didn't care who you are and what you are, he loved everybody," said Elizabeth Baksi, a high school student from Houma, La., after viewing the video.
Incredibly doubtful if you ask me, but some ill-formed minds of the teenaged variety are apparently being sucked into this bit of tax-funded propaganda and drivel.
"I liked it... I think [Lincoln] would have [supported homosexual and abortion rights] because that's how Lincoln was; he was very supportive of the people. He didn't care who you are and what you are, he loved everybody," said Elizabeth Baksi, a high school student from Houma, La., after viewing the video.
Monday, February 03, 2003
Paging Tom Cruise...
New Vatican document analyzes and critiques the New Age movement.
When presenting the document to the press today, Cardinal Paul Poupard, president of the Pontifical Council for Culture, said that "the New Age phenomenon, along with many other new religious movements, is one of the most urgent challenges for the Christian faith."
"It is a religious challenge and, at the same time, a cultural challenge," he said. With its doctrines on God, man and the world, which are "incompatible with the Christian faith," the New Age "is at the same time symptom of a culture in profound crisis and a mistaken answer to the present situation of crisis," Cardinal Poupard said.
New Vatican document analyzes and critiques the New Age movement.
When presenting the document to the press today, Cardinal Paul Poupard, president of the Pontifical Council for Culture, said that "the New Age phenomenon, along with many other new religious movements, is one of the most urgent challenges for the Christian faith."
"It is a religious challenge and, at the same time, a cultural challenge," he said. With its doctrines on God, man and the world, which are "incompatible with the Christian faith," the New Age "is at the same time symptom of a culture in profound crisis and a mistaken answer to the present situation of crisis," Cardinal Poupard said.
More Catholic than we think?
In addition to being sincere and consoling, President Bush's announcement of the Space Shuttle tragedy appears to have given us a slight glimpse into his underlying theological beliefs. At the end of his address, Pres. Bush said "...we can pray that they [the crew of the Columbia] make it home." Not everyone on the Columbia, of course, was Christian. Ask most Fundamentalist or Evangelical Protestants what they think the eternal destiny of the these non-Christians are, and they will probably tell you Hell. For the President, however, he seems to think that God is merciful enough to save those who, through no fault of their own, have never professed faith in Him or Christ. Not bad for a Methodist. I wonder if brother Jeb (who is Catholic) is rubbing off on him.
In addition to being sincere and consoling, President Bush's announcement of the Space Shuttle tragedy appears to have given us a slight glimpse into his underlying theological beliefs. At the end of his address, Pres. Bush said "...we can pray that they [the crew of the Columbia] make it home." Not everyone on the Columbia, of course, was Christian. Ask most Fundamentalist or Evangelical Protestants what they think the eternal destiny of the these non-Christians are, and they will probably tell you Hell. For the President, however, he seems to think that God is merciful enough to save those who, through no fault of their own, have never professed faith in Him or Christ. Not bad for a Methodist. I wonder if brother Jeb (who is Catholic) is rubbing off on him.
Saturday, February 01, 2003
Friday, January 31, 2003
Woo hoo! Only two more months 'till Opening Day in baseball, and the Dodgers have signed...Ron Coomer? Bet the Giants are shakin' in their shoes now, by golly.
Well this is incredibly perverse. A Canadian court (big surprise) awards a divorced couple damages for the "wrongful birth" of their Down's Syndrome child.
A [British Columbia] Supreme Court justice ruled this week that Dr. Ken Kan must pay the child's mother, Liu-Ling "Lydia" Zhang of Vancouver, $10,000 in damages.
The justice also awarded American Simon Fung, the father, $20,000 in damages and $295,000 for the cost of his daughter Sherry's future care.
Dr. Kan was negligent in failing to send Zhang for an expedited amniocentesis test, which likely would have detected her baby's chromosome defect, Justice Michael Catliff ruled.
Zhang would have aborted her pregnancy had she known her daughter would be born with Down's, the mother has said.
A [British Columbia] Supreme Court justice ruled this week that Dr. Ken Kan must pay the child's mother, Liu-Ling "Lydia" Zhang of Vancouver, $10,000 in damages.
The justice also awarded American Simon Fung, the father, $20,000 in damages and $295,000 for the cost of his daughter Sherry's future care.
Dr. Kan was negligent in failing to send Zhang for an expedited amniocentesis test, which likely would have detected her baby's chromosome defect, Justice Michael Catliff ruled.
Zhang would have aborted her pregnancy had she known her daughter would be born with Down's, the mother has said.
Thursday, January 30, 2003
Broadest U.S. Christian alliance, that includes the Catholic Church, is proposed.
The loosely knit alliance would represent five segments of U.S. Christianity, listed in the plan as "Evangelical/Pentecostal, Historic Protestant, Orthodox, Racial/Ethnic and Roman Catholic."
The Catholic church and most evangelicals and Pentecostals do not belong to the National Council of Churches, which is currently the nation's largest ecumenical group. If the new alliance does emerge, it could supplant the National Council or radically alter its role in American Christianity.
The loosely knit alliance would represent five segments of U.S. Christianity, listed in the plan as "Evangelical/Pentecostal, Historic Protestant, Orthodox, Racial/Ethnic and Roman Catholic."
The Catholic church and most evangelicals and Pentecostals do not belong to the National Council of Churches, which is currently the nation's largest ecumenical group. If the new alliance does emerge, it could supplant the National Council or radically alter its role in American Christianity.
Not enough time to examine their qualifications?! Give me a freakin' break! Before the Republicans took back control over the Senate, you idiot Democrats had more than a year to question these judicial nominees! Admit it. You guys are just mad because Sen. Hatch isn't giving you enough time to run your asinine smear campaigns!
Prof. to students: "No recommendation unless you accept my belief that we are descendents of monkeys and the origin of life is just one big happy accident."
Wednesday, January 29, 2003
After reading Mark Shea's blog on "Evangelicalese", I'm in need of some clarification. When Protestants mention the "sanctuary" of their chapels, are they generally including the pews where everybody sits (or stands and claps their hands to cheery music)? My understanding of the sanctuary in a Catholic context is that it only includes the immediate area around or in front of the altar (sometimes cordoned off by Communion rails).
Could this possibly be the case where the SCOTUS gets to revisit the question of whether an unborn child is a "person"? Hmmm...
Tuesday, January 28, 2003
For all my fellow Tridentine loyalists who go by the old calendar, today is the feast day of St. Peter Nolasco. If you're going by the new calendar, it is the feast day of my patron saint, St. Thomas Aquinas.
Monday, January 27, 2003
On a more serious matter, SCOTUS declines to hear juvenile death penalty case.
The Supreme Court has allowed the death penalty to be imposed on killers who were 16 or 17 at the time of their crimes. Lawyers for Oklahoma inmate Scott Allen Hain said the minimum age should be raised to 18.
"While they appear to be fully-grown physically and may seem to be functioning as adults, their judgment and impulse-control are simply not that of adults," attorney Steven Presson told justices in filings.
Hain was 17 when he and an older friend abducted and killed a young couple in 1987. They locked the victims in their car trunk and set it afire.
The Supreme Court has allowed the death penalty to be imposed on killers who were 16 or 17 at the time of their crimes. Lawyers for Oklahoma inmate Scott Allen Hain said the minimum age should be raised to 18.
"While they appear to be fully-grown physically and may seem to be functioning as adults, their judgment and impulse-control are simply not that of adults," attorney Steven Presson told justices in filings.
Hain was 17 when he and an older friend abducted and killed a young couple in 1987. They locked the victims in their car trunk and set it afire.
SCOTUS declines to hear Mattel appeal over song that calls Barbie a "blonde bimbo."
The song, by a Danish group called Aqua, includes the lyrics, "I'm a blonde bimbo in a fantasy world/Dress me up, make it tight, I'm your dolly."
Mattel Inc. (MAT), which gets $1.5 billion or more annually in Barbie sales, complained that an advertisement for the song ran during Saturday morning cartoons and that MCA Records Inc. even wanted to sell the recording at toy stores.
The song, by a Danish group called Aqua, includes the lyrics, "I'm a blonde bimbo in a fantasy world/Dress me up, make it tight, I'm your dolly."
Mattel Inc. (MAT), which gets $1.5 billion or more annually in Barbie sales, complained that an advertisement for the song ran during Saturday morning cartoons and that MCA Records Inc. even wanted to sell the recording at toy stores.
Saturday, January 25, 2003
The Bucs don't have a chance unless Warran Sapp or Brad Johnson have a relative who is a priest or nun . (article requires registration)
"I'm part of the Raider Nation," said Sister Kathleen Gannon, a nun in Berkeley whose nephew, Rich Gannon, is Oakland's starting quarterback.
"When Rich first came out here to the Raiders, I said, 'Rich, they have a very bad reputation," she said. "But he said, 'Aunt Kath, I know that's their reputation, but if you talk to the guys they have a very deep spirituality.' "
"I'm part of the Raider Nation," said Sister Kathleen Gannon, a nun in Berkeley whose nephew, Rich Gannon, is Oakland's starting quarterback.
"When Rich first came out here to the Raiders, I said, 'Rich, they have a very bad reputation," she said. "But he said, 'Aunt Kath, I know that's their reputation, but if you talk to the guys they have a very deep spirituality.' "
Friday, January 24, 2003
I'm glad to see the feds have finally done something to make California fix its woeful foster care system. Perhaps the feds' findings will prove useful in beating back proposed bills to make private foster care agencies place children with homosexual applicants.
Thursday, January 23, 2003
Bishop Wiegand of Sacramento advises Gov. Davis to stop receiving Holy Communion for as long as he supports pro-abortion policies. The way I see it, "Gray-out" should be looking at this as a favor, since he is blaspheming our Lord every time he receives the Eucharist. (How else should a person who receives Holy Communion while in a state of mortal sin be described?)
Wednesday, January 22, 2003
How incredibly dumb do you have to be to not know that eating a Big Mac with fries every day will make you fat?
Monday, January 20, 2003
The retirement watch on Chief Justice Rehnquist grows.
He is now in his 17th year as chief justice, and the 31st as a member of the court. Recent health problems, the political calendar, and Rehnquist's success in advancing a conservative agenda all have helped fuel the retirement speculation.
''He is the most likely to retire, and the stars are aligned right for it,'' suggested Roger Pilon, vice president of legal affairs at the Cato Institute, a libertarian legal advocacy group. Given that the Congress and presidency are both controlled by Republicans, Pilon said, ''it's the opportune time for him to retire; all that could change with the next election.''
He is now in his 17th year as chief justice, and the 31st as a member of the court. Recent health problems, the political calendar, and Rehnquist's success in advancing a conservative agenda all have helped fuel the retirement speculation.
''He is the most likely to retire, and the stars are aligned right for it,'' suggested Roger Pilon, vice president of legal affairs at the Cato Institute, a libertarian legal advocacy group. Given that the Congress and presidency are both controlled by Republicans, Pilon said, ''it's the opportune time for him to retire; all that could change with the next election.''
Nice to see the Ninth Circuit got something right for a change. They rule that Maui County Council members, in their capacities as individuals, cannot claim government immunity when they are sued under the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act of 2000. In other words, if a government entity violates a plaintiff's rights under RLUIPA, each individual responsible for that violation (e.g., a city or county council member) can personally be on the hook for any damages incurred.
The capital of Raider Nation (yes, I'm on the bandwagon) gets a new, and seemingly better, bishop. (Hey, any guy labeled a "conservative" by the ultra-liberal SF Chronicle can't be all bad).
(link via Amy Welborn's blog)
(link via Amy Welborn's blog)
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