Is he just an ignorant stooge or does he really believe what he said?
Mr. CASEY: “We want to do a couple of things with this legislation, which we know is the Foreclosure Prevention Act of 2008. Our Majority Leader, Senator Reid, and our leadership and the members of the Democratic Caucus set it out fairly specifically. A couple of basic things this legislation would have done: first of all, it would have continued what we started in the end of last year, foreclosure prevention counseling dollars, to give money to organizations around the country that are certifiably expert at this, organizations like La Raza. I know the presiding officer knows that group. We know also the Association for Community Organizations for Reform Now, known by the acronym ‘ACORN.’ They’re headquartered in Philadelphia. These are organizations which understand what a lender has to deal with but more importantly deal with borrowers when they’re borrowing money, when they’re dealing with the difficulty and complexity of borrowing money. These organizations would have helped even more so than they’re helping now with $200 million more of counseling money. That’s not going to happen right now because of what the other side did; they blocked that money by blocking this legislation.”
So La Raza, a Mexican separatist organization that wants to "reclaim" and remove from the U.S. a large part of California and Texas and return that land to Mexico is "certifiably expert" at foreclosure counseling? Really? Also, ACORN, a group that has been involved in voter fraud is "certifiably expert " in foreclosure counseling? Really? This politico really wants to give these two groups up to $200 million dollars that was to be targeted for home foreclosure counseling? Really?
First, the entire program is a waste of money. Yet again, the government is planning to reward people for poor choices and bad decisions. Sorry but NO. You can't afford to pay your mortgage then refinance, sell or foreclose. No special breaks for you. That is a slap in the face of everyone else that makes sacrifices and adult decisions in order to pay their bills and keep their homes. As for taking that wasted money and funneling it to La Raza and ACORN, this moron should be kicked out of office. What a dope.
Friday, February 29, 2008
Finally, a worthwhile Che poster!
The guy was a murdering thug that worked for a murdering thug and as can often be the case, because of his (and his boss') politics, he is loved by the left.
Thursday, February 28, 2008
The Moon’s Craggiest Stretch Comes Into Focus
So the old gray lady still has some value.
Any space news is good news. We should be in space and have bases both in orbit and on the moon, as self sustaining as possible. In this way, even if we on tera do or are subject to a very stupid action, humans may could continue.
Any space news is good news. We should be in space and have bases both in orbit and on the moon, as self sustaining as possible. In this way, even if we on tera do or are subject to a very stupid action, humans may could continue.
Montanans insist on gun rights
As is noted: "Of course the historical evidence is unanimous that in 1889, the Second Amendment was considered to be an individual right comparable to the individual right of free speech," Mr. Kopel said in an e-mail.
In this day and age though, that does not appear to be so unanimous. There are those that wish to rewrite history. Today gun ownership is a state right and not an individual right. Mostly because those people know they can not convince the majority of Americans to give up that right. Hence they choose to twist the meaning of the Second Amendment so that it was not an individual right to start with. Then it is that much easier to use the power of the government to take away the guns.
In this day and age though, that does not appear to be so unanimous. There are those that wish to rewrite history. Today gun ownership is a state right and not an individual right. Mostly because those people know they can not convince the majority of Americans to give up that right. Hence they choose to twist the meaning of the Second Amendment so that it was not an individual right to start with. Then it is that much easier to use the power of the government to take away the guns.
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Stossel on gun control
National Academy of Sciences reviewed dozens of studies and could not find a single gun regulation that clearly led to reduced violent crime or murder.
"If someone gets into your house, which would you rather have, a handgun or a telephone? You can call the police if you want, and they'll get there, and they'll take a picture of your dead body. But they can't get there in time to save your life. The first line of defense is you."
Ain't that the truth! It is not the fault of police; they just can not be everywhere, all the time. If you are not prepared to protect yourself, you have no protection.
"If someone gets into your house, which would you rather have, a handgun or a telephone? You can call the police if you want, and they'll get there, and they'll take a picture of your dead body. But they can't get there in time to save your life. The first line of defense is you."
Ain't that the truth! It is not the fault of police; they just can not be everywhere, all the time. If you are not prepared to protect yourself, you have no protection.
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Healable Rubber
The hydrogen bonds that hold the small molecules together are also key to the healing process. When two cut ends are brought together, molecules on each side reform bonds with those on the other. Time is of the essence: if the ends are not brought together quickly enough, the molecules will form bonds with other molecules on their own side, making a repair impossible.
Cool...
Cool...
Monday, February 25, 2008
Contact lenses with built in circuits
I not only want what this could be but I want it to be a reactive contact lens as well. So that it not only can show me a virtual heads up display and correct my vision but also give me the ability to see very close up things and very far away thing as though I were using a microscope or telescope.
Oh and someone STILL owes me a flying car!
Oh and someone STILL owes me a flying car!
Friday, February 22, 2008
Other peoples taxes
Megan McArdle makes this observation over at Instapundit:
people are more interested in levying taxes on others than they are in paying taxes themselves.
This seems a bit like stating the obvious (and I understand that sometimes you do have to do that) and I would bet money that people are also more interested in other people being caught for speeding, drink driving and littering than they are in favor of they themselves being caught. I would further wager this is the case for all activities that are regarded as punitive. I say that with the thought that most people do regard taxes of any kind as punitive. If that were not the case, we would not need an IRS, everyone would just give the government the amount it asks for and no one would ever need to be audited.
people are more interested in levying taxes on others than they are in paying taxes themselves.
This seems a bit like stating the obvious (and I understand that sometimes you do have to do that) and I would bet money that people are also more interested in other people being caught for speeding, drink driving and littering than they are in favor of they themselves being caught. I would further wager this is the case for all activities that are regarded as punitive. I say that with the thought that most people do regard taxes of any kind as punitive. If that were not the case, we would not need an IRS, everyone would just give the government the amount it asks for and no one would ever need to be audited.
Mack Bolan
I remember "borrowing" my dad's Mack Bolan novels when I was a kid and reading all about Mack, his "war wagon" and his one man fight against the Mafia.
What appears to be the full extended collection of Mack Bolan novels can be found here.
What appears to be the full extended collection of Mack Bolan novels can be found here.
Obama on Afghanistan
Yes he did say:
You know, I’ve heard from an Army captain who was the head of a rifle platoon — supposed to have 39 men in a rifle platoon. Ended up being sent to Afghanistan with 24 because 15 of those soldiers had been sent to Iraq.
And as a consequence, they didn’t have enough ammunition, they didn’t have enough Humvees. They were actually capturing Taliban weapons, because it was easier to get Taliban weapons than it was for them to get properly equipped by our current commander in chief.
A number of people believe he is a little (being charitable) confused. I wonder if he has a hat too?
You know, I’ve heard from an Army captain who was the head of a rifle platoon — supposed to have 39 men in a rifle platoon. Ended up being sent to Afghanistan with 24 because 15 of those soldiers had been sent to Iraq.
And as a consequence, they didn’t have enough ammunition, they didn’t have enough Humvees. They were actually capturing Taliban weapons, because it was easier to get Taliban weapons than it was for them to get properly equipped by our current commander in chief.
A number of people believe he is a little (being charitable) confused. I wonder if he has a hat too?
Barack Obama and guns
In 1999, Obama proposed to make it a felony for the gun owner if a firearm stolen from his residence and used in a crime was not “securely stored” — effectively negating the homeowner’s right to self-defense.
Not good, not good at all...
Not good, not good at all...
Islamic school books call Christians "pigs"
Teacher alleged that five-year-olds were also taught from the texts that Jews were "monkeys".
The head of King Fahad Academy denied the claims but shredded the 2,000 books.
I am sure that these claims are false and have absolutely no basis in facts. All 2000 books were shredded because, um, the printing was not of a high enough quality, yeah, that’s the ticket, the book printing was not good enough and um, the ink was smudged...
The head of King Fahad Academy denied the claims but shredded the 2,000 books.
I am sure that these claims are false and have absolutely no basis in facts. All 2000 books were shredded because, um, the printing was not of a high enough quality, yeah, that’s the ticket, the book printing was not good enough and um, the ink was smudged...
Thursday, February 21, 2008
Lunar eclipse pics
I captured these lunar eclipse photos with our Nikon D40X. I used a tripod, set the camera for night mode, and used manual focus. The camera was set at high quality (10 mp) and these images have been resized/blown up in Photoshop Elements. I did not use the "standard" lens but a low end telephoto lens and will update with the actual lens details later.
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Obama in a nutshell
"an eloquent but empty call for change that promises no more than a holiday from history and a return to the false promises and failed policies of a tired philosophy that trusts in government more than the people."
From John McCain's speech last night.
From John McCain's speech last night.
Almost forgot! Lunar eclipse tonight
At least here in the south east. It is supposed to run from 1o:00pm (ish) to about 11:59pm (ish).
I know the chart says Feb 21 but for us on the east coast, it is the night of the 20th. Don't miss it!
I know the chart says Feb 21 but for us on the east coast, it is the night of the 20th. Don't miss it!
There is no joy in Mudville tonight…
Word on the street is that apparently Obama has enough delegates to win the Democratic nomination. If that is the case, Hilary must be biting though nails right about now cause you know, everyone, just EVERYONE knew the election was supposed to be hers!
The Clinton camp apparently has not called it quits just yet and may try (hard to believe) a fast one and tug a disproportionate number of the pledged delegates over to their camp. Not unexpected and if successful I don’t think it would cause the entire Democratic party to implode but I don’t think she would have any much of an effective presidency if she were able to pull it all off and get the office. I would also expect a lot of inter-party backlash by a lot of leftish voters if that is how she wins the nomination.
Well worst case, Hillary and Gore can reminisce about what might have been, over drinks.
The Clinton camp apparently has not called it quits just yet and may try (hard to believe) a fast one and tug a disproportionate number of the pledged delegates over to their camp. Not unexpected and if successful I don’t think it would cause the entire Democratic party to implode but I don’t think she would have any much of an effective presidency if she were able to pull it all off and get the office. I would also expect a lot of inter-party backlash by a lot of leftish voters if that is how she wins the nomination.
Well worst case, Hillary and Gore can reminisce about what might have been, over drinks.
Castro’s comrades
Even as he finally loosens his grip on power and moves out of center stage, his lapdogs in the media continue to try and airbrush his life and actions.
As some have speculated, CNN is sure that he can’t be dead!
“Please say in our reporting that Castro stepped down in a letter he wrote to Granma (the communist party daily), as opposed to in a letter attributed to Fidel Castro. We have no reason to doubt he wrote his resignation letter, he has penned numerous articles over the past year and a half.”
If the letter could be “attributed” to Castro, what is stopping the numerous articles from being “attributed” to him as well? Anyone could have slapped his name on an article and had it run in the government controlled papers. A byline attributed to him is not proof of life. Just as a letter “attributed” to him is not proof of death. They just can not stop the spin, it is in their genetic makeup now.
“Please note Fidel did bring social reforms to Cuba – namely free education and universal health care, and racial integration. in addition to being criticized for oppressing human rights and freedom of speech.”
Oh nice, the free education and (questionable) universal health care more than make up for the evils of his dictatorship. What is a few political prisoners in the face of low illiteracy rates?
“Also the Cuban government blames a lot of Cuba’s economic problems on the US embargo, and while that has caused some difficulties, (far less so than the collapse of the Soviet Union) the bulk of Cuba’s economic problems are due to Cuba’s failed economic polices. Some analysts would say the US embargo was a benefit to Castro politically – something to blame problems on, by what the Cubans call “the imperialist,” meddling in their affairs.”
I blame the decline of American values on Hollywood and the teacher’s union and though I believe I am right, it may not be so. Just because Cuba blamed America for its economic problems, the rest of the world did not have an embargo. What, are we the only source of goods and services in the entire world?
“While despised by some, he is seen as a revolutionary hero, especially with leftist in Latin America, for standing up to the United States.”
Those Castro had killed and those still imprisoned could not be reached for comment.
As some have speculated, CNN is sure that he can’t be dead!
“Please say in our reporting that Castro stepped down in a letter he wrote to Granma (the communist party daily), as opposed to in a letter attributed to Fidel Castro. We have no reason to doubt he wrote his resignation letter, he has penned numerous articles over the past year and a half.”
If the letter could be “attributed” to Castro, what is stopping the numerous articles from being “attributed” to him as well? Anyone could have slapped his name on an article and had it run in the government controlled papers. A byline attributed to him is not proof of life. Just as a letter “attributed” to him is not proof of death. They just can not stop the spin, it is in their genetic makeup now.
“Please note Fidel did bring social reforms to Cuba – namely free education and universal health care, and racial integration. in addition to being criticized for oppressing human rights and freedom of speech.”
Oh nice, the free education and (questionable) universal health care more than make up for the evils of his dictatorship. What is a few political prisoners in the face of low illiteracy rates?
“Also the Cuban government blames a lot of Cuba’s economic problems on the US embargo, and while that has caused some difficulties, (far less so than the collapse of the Soviet Union) the bulk of Cuba’s economic problems are due to Cuba’s failed economic polices. Some analysts would say the US embargo was a benefit to Castro politically – something to blame problems on, by what the Cubans call “the imperialist,” meddling in their affairs.”
I blame the decline of American values on Hollywood and the teacher’s union and though I believe I am right, it may not be so. Just because Cuba blamed America for its economic problems, the rest of the world did not have an embargo. What, are we the only source of goods and services in the entire world?
“While despised by some, he is seen as a revolutionary hero, especially with leftist in Latin America, for standing up to the United States.”
Those Castro had killed and those still imprisoned could not be reached for comment.
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
The Anchoress, Keith Olbermann and the word “fascist”
The Anchoress takes on Keith Olbermann and scores a quick knock out. It was not really a fair fight though. In a battle of wits and logic, Keith Olbermann is not only unarmed but he is also blind folded and his shoe laces are tied together.
David and Goliath
It would seem that Goliath (the U.N. and Google) are attempting to crush little David in an attempt to shut him up.
It is rather humorous that they can shut him out in just a day but that it can take weeks to get him plugged back in. As an old SNL skit would ask, REALLY?
So much for "don't be evil"...
It is rather humorous that they can shut him out in just a day but that it can take weeks to get him plugged back in. As an old SNL skit would ask, REALLY?
So much for "don't be evil"...
So much for the plight of the Palatines
As a Jerusalem-based Reuters correspondent in 1998, I visited several Palestinian refugee camps in the West Bank and Gaza, and was astonished to see living conditions better than in the slums of Cairo, my hometown. (Frustration and not mean-spiritedness compels me to make that comparison.)
Self defense for women
I know I shouldn’t have (mistakes happen), I watched the local Orlando Fox News last night. Not to be confused with the cable Fox News which I believe is “fair and balanced”. The local Fox news is just like any other local news station and just as addenda driven. One of the big stories last night had to do with women and self protection.
Before I get into the story, please take this little quiz; A 95 pound woman is about to be attacked by a 200 pound man. Which one of these self defense tools will give her the best chance to survive the impending attack? A) pepper spray, B) a whistle, C) a stun gun, or D) a 32 semi-auto hand gun.
The news opened this story discussing how the story's central female citizen did not currently feel safe in her new neighborhood because very recently another lady in her neighborhood was robbed at gun point. The first woman felt that she needed some self protection to help her feel safe. The story then transitioned into all of the various methods of self protection available to women. Their list included: pepper spray, personal alarms, stun guns, stun guns made to look like cell phones, cane stun sticks, etc.
The only item missing from their report, the white elephant in the room if you will, was not only the device used by the attacker that was the basis of this story but also the answer to my quiz question above, a hand gun.
I factitiously ask, why was a hand gun not mentioned as a viable self defense option for women? Could it be that most of the media have a bias against guns and as such, they only appear in stories where they can be shown in the roll of a villainous devices? It is indeed a rare local or national news story where a gun used for self defense is highlighted. This is Florida for goodness sakes! Practically any legal resident can get a concealed carry permit.
In the hands of a person that takes the time to get familiar with it and trained in its use a hand gun it is extremely effective for self defense and unlike a stun gun; there are a number of places where you can go to practice with it. I have yet to see a single place where a person can go with a stun gun and actually get practice using it. I don’t mean just pressing the button and hear it go click-click-click and watch the sparks, I mean actually using it and knowing how to use it. It is one thing to stand there and press the stun button and saying “gee, that was easy, I can do this” it is another to actually use it in a self protection event. I would be interested to know how many women purchase a stun gun, put it in their purse and never really touch it again. I actually have a female friend that owns 3 stun guns, none of them charged. That is also why, if you own a gun, you should make it a point to go to a range on a regular basis to target shoot. First, this ensures that you are familiar with the care and operation of your gun and second it ensures that you are comfortable with holding and shooting it. One hopes that you never ever have to use a gun in self defense but if the need arises, you should not have to think about the process. You will need all of your concentration for the event, to have to think about how your gun works and how to use it are distractions you may not be able to afford.
Before I get into the story, please take this little quiz; A 95 pound woman is about to be attacked by a 200 pound man. Which one of these self defense tools will give her the best chance to survive the impending attack? A) pepper spray, B) a whistle, C) a stun gun, or D) a 32 semi-auto hand gun.
The news opened this story discussing how the story's central female citizen did not currently feel safe in her new neighborhood because very recently another lady in her neighborhood was robbed at gun point. The first woman felt that she needed some self protection to help her feel safe. The story then transitioned into all of the various methods of self protection available to women. Their list included: pepper spray, personal alarms, stun guns, stun guns made to look like cell phones, cane stun sticks, etc.
The only item missing from their report, the white elephant in the room if you will, was not only the device used by the attacker that was the basis of this story but also the answer to my quiz question above, a hand gun.
I factitiously ask, why was a hand gun not mentioned as a viable self defense option for women? Could it be that most of the media have a bias against guns and as such, they only appear in stories where they can be shown in the roll of a villainous devices? It is indeed a rare local or national news story where a gun used for self defense is highlighted. This is Florida for goodness sakes! Practically any legal resident can get a concealed carry permit.
In the hands of a person that takes the time to get familiar with it and trained in its use a hand gun it is extremely effective for self defense and unlike a stun gun; there are a number of places where you can go to practice with it. I have yet to see a single place where a person can go with a stun gun and actually get practice using it. I don’t mean just pressing the button and hear it go click-click-click and watch the sparks, I mean actually using it and knowing how to use it. It is one thing to stand there and press the stun button and saying “gee, that was easy, I can do this” it is another to actually use it in a self protection event. I would be interested to know how many women purchase a stun gun, put it in their purse and never really touch it again. I actually have a female friend that owns 3 stun guns, none of them charged. That is also why, if you own a gun, you should make it a point to go to a range on a regular basis to target shoot. First, this ensures that you are familiar with the care and operation of your gun and second it ensures that you are comfortable with holding and shooting it. One hopes that you never ever have to use a gun in self defense but if the need arises, you should not have to think about the process. You will need all of your concentration for the event, to have to think about how your gun works and how to use it are distractions you may not be able to afford.
Monday, February 18, 2008
Why Intellectuals Like Genocide
In interesting read and as relevant to Australian history as it is to Guatemala, American and many other places.
Often the first reaction is to place blame for past wrongs and demand an apology even though the wrongs are so far in the past that no actual parties to the wrongs are alive today. Let us not let that get in the way though. Another missing element is perspective. Back in the 80s it was popular to push for reparations for American slavery. Though it was indeed wrong, little thought was spared for a) the lives those decedents would have had, had they stayed in Africa, b) the fact that most slaves to the early Americas were sold to the slavers by other Africans, c) no actual slaves were left alive to be compensated and c) that slavery and the sex trade continue to this day in Africa and it is treated as a non-issue. People would rather continue to dredge up ancient American history in regard to slavery than to actually do something about the current slave trade that is going on in Africa and Europe.
Often the first reaction is to place blame for past wrongs and demand an apology even though the wrongs are so far in the past that no actual parties to the wrongs are alive today. Let us not let that get in the way though. Another missing element is perspective. Back in the 80s it was popular to push for reparations for American slavery. Though it was indeed wrong, little thought was spared for a) the lives those decedents would have had, had they stayed in Africa, b) the fact that most slaves to the early Americas were sold to the slavers by other Africans, c) no actual slaves were left alive to be compensated and c) that slavery and the sex trade continue to this day in Africa and it is treated as a non-issue. People would rather continue to dredge up ancient American history in regard to slavery than to actually do something about the current slave trade that is going on in Africa and Europe.
Where's the Outrage?
Well you won't hear much cause this can't be blamed (at least not yet) on the EVIL republicans. Once they figure out a way to make this Bush's fault, there will be no end to the cries of racism.
Boiling the vacuum
This is discussed in the comments section of the preceding post about the super laser. Apparently "boiling the vacuum" is creating matter in a vacuum by injecting enough focused energy and having that energy convert into matter (remember e=mc2). A reference is here and here for those wanting to know more.
Update: 2/20/2008
This appears to be a very popular topic and as such I have searched for additional relevant references without much luck. For those not wishing to follow the above links, here is another reference to this theorized(?) phenomenon.
Such X-ray lasers may allow also for high-field science applications by exploiting the possibility to focus their beams to a spot with a small radius, hopefully in the range of the laser wavelength. Along this route one obtains very large electric fields, much larger than those obtainable with any optical laser of the same power. We consider here the possibility of obtaining an electric field so high that electron-positron pairs are spontaneously produced in vacuum (Schwinger pair production) and review the prospects to verify this non-perturbative production mechanism for the first time in the laboratory.
This reference seems to be extremely similar to the first link above and may reference the same underlying source. From there you can download the complete paper (in what some Windows users would consider non-standard formats).
Update: 2/20/2008
This appears to be a very popular topic and as such I have searched for additional relevant references without much luck. For those not wishing to follow the above links, here is another reference to this theorized(?) phenomenon.
Such X-ray lasers may allow also for high-field science applications by exploiting the possibility to focus their beams to a spot with a small radius, hopefully in the range of the laser wavelength. Along this route one obtains very large electric fields, much larger than those obtainable with any optical laser of the same power. We consider here the possibility of obtaining an electric field so high that electron-positron pairs are spontaneously produced in vacuum (Schwinger pair production) and review the prospects to verify this non-perturbative production mechanism for the first time in the laboratory.
This reference seems to be extremely similar to the first link above and may reference the same underlying source. From there you can download the complete paper (in what some Windows users would consider non-standard formats).
New laser most intense light in the universe
If you could hold a giant magnifying glass in space and focus all the sunlight shining toward Earth onto one grain of sand, that concentrated ray would approach the intensity of a new laser beam made in a University of Michigan laboratory.
Sweet...
Sweet...
Friday, February 15, 2008
Open Letter to Mexican President Calderon
President Calderon:
I was disappointed by misguided comments you recently made regarding U.S.-Mexico relations and U.S. immigration laws. Purveying misinformation and absurd allegations is hardly a positive step to building a constructive partnership.
According to the Associated Press you recently said, “You have two economies. One economy is intensive in capital, which is the American economy. One economy is intensive in labor, which is the Mexican economy. We are two complementary economies, and that phenomenon is impossible to stop.” Yes, both countries benefit by the 85% of Mexico’s manufacturing exports that come to the U.S., but people are not commodities. While I appreciate your concern for our joint prosperity, the economic and social ills that plague your country cannot be resolved by simply exporting your citizens to the United States.
It is undeniable that Mexico faces major challenges. Endemic corruption and the power of violent drug cartels still dominate everyday life across Mexico. Beyond the headlines, Mexico has deep institutional maladies. Mexico’s absurdly antiquated Napoleonic-inquisition styled legal system and the squandering of robust energy-industry opportunity by a poorly managed, state-run Pemex monopoly are just two examples of the kind of self-inflicted wounds that hobble your troubled nation.
I understand that you are attempting to resolve some of these problems and applaud your leadership in trying to do so. But what would contribute more to the long term stability of your economy and your country would be to focus more energy on addressing your domestic challenges and less on lobbying the U.S. to provide amnesty for Mexicans who have illegally entered this country with the blessing of your government. In doing so, you might be able to keep Mexico’s “best and brightest young men” in Mexico – where they can contribute more to Mexico’s economy than remittance payments. Unfortunately, your recent comments indicate that Mexico will continue its policy of encouraging illegal immigration and treating the United States as little more than a dumping ground for your social and economic problems.
In your speech yesterday to the California State legislature, you lectured the American people on how to improve our immigration policies. Why did you not propose that we model our policies on Mexico’s own policies toward illegal entry across your own southern border? Mexico expends enormous resources to prevent Guatemalans, Hondurans and Salvadorans from entering the country illegally, but you castigate the United States for wanting secure borders. Mr. President, in my neighborhood that is called hypocrisy.
You proposed in your Sacramento speech that “migration” be made “legal, safe and organized.” Mr. President, we already have such a program and it is called legal immigration. Over one million legal immigrants come through our ports of entry each year, not across our border fences. The American people set limits on the number of legal immigrants through our immigration laws, and it is not the job of the Mexican government to revise or expand those limits.
President Calderon, you are insulting the American people when you tell us that fifteen to twenty million illegal aliens in our country bring only benefits and no costs. I challenge you to give one concrete example of how the enforcement of our existing immigration laws violates anyone’s human rights. The people of Oklahoma are not anti-Mexican for passing laws to require verification of employment eligibility. The people of Indiana are not anti-immigrant for passing laws to require photo identification for voting. The people of California are not anti-Mexican for denying driver’s licenses to illegal aliens. The people of Arizona are not anti-immigrant for passing laws that deny welfare benefits to people who are in that state unlawfully.
It is no secret that the purpose of your visit is to influence the American election, and in fact your trip has been billed as a high-stakes effort to shape the immigration debate underway in the U.S. presidential race. What is perhaps more disappointing, however, is your attempt to insinuate that anti-amnesty sentiment here in the U.S. is the same as anti-Mexican sentiment. I am referring to your statement, “I need to change in the perception that the Americans are the enemy, and it is important to change the perception that the Mexicans are the enemy.”
It is both disingenuous and dangerous for you to inject this kind of xenophobia into this debate. The fact that the overwhelming majority of Americans support the enforcement of our immigration laws and take issue with the notion that we should reward illegal behavior, hardly qualifies as ethnic animosity or international enmity. What you must understand is that a treasured aspect of our national foundation is a respect for the rule of law. Perhaps if corruption were not so widespread and commonplace in Mexico, it would be easier for you to understand this.
President Calderon, in many ways your trip thus far has been a long series of mixed messages. You accuse the United States of recent protectionist trends, yet you heavily restrict foreign entry into Mexico’s energy sector through a massive, state-run Pemex monopoly. You assure American politicians that an open flow of cheap Mexican labor is not only benign but vitally necessary, but you take great care in securing your own southern border with Guatemala. You come to the United States purportedly to promote better political and economic ties with the U.S., but then issue a thinly veiled threat that Mexicans will regard the U.S. as an enemy if we refuse to provide millions of illegal aliens with unconditional amnesty.
President Calderon, I respectfully suggest that the next time you visit our country, rather than trying to influence U.S. policymakers or our election process, you take time to listen to Americans rather than lecture them. If you want to make changes in government policies, apply your energies to Mexico’s laundry list of problems rather than meddling in domestic American politics.
I was disappointed by misguided comments you recently made regarding U.S.-Mexico relations and U.S. immigration laws. Purveying misinformation and absurd allegations is hardly a positive step to building a constructive partnership.
According to the Associated Press you recently said, “You have two economies. One economy is intensive in capital, which is the American economy. One economy is intensive in labor, which is the Mexican economy. We are two complementary economies, and that phenomenon is impossible to stop.” Yes, both countries benefit by the 85% of Mexico’s manufacturing exports that come to the U.S., but people are not commodities. While I appreciate your concern for our joint prosperity, the economic and social ills that plague your country cannot be resolved by simply exporting your citizens to the United States.
It is undeniable that Mexico faces major challenges. Endemic corruption and the power of violent drug cartels still dominate everyday life across Mexico. Beyond the headlines, Mexico has deep institutional maladies. Mexico’s absurdly antiquated Napoleonic-inquisition styled legal system and the squandering of robust energy-industry opportunity by a poorly managed, state-run Pemex monopoly are just two examples of the kind of self-inflicted wounds that hobble your troubled nation.
I understand that you are attempting to resolve some of these problems and applaud your leadership in trying to do so. But what would contribute more to the long term stability of your economy and your country would be to focus more energy on addressing your domestic challenges and less on lobbying the U.S. to provide amnesty for Mexicans who have illegally entered this country with the blessing of your government. In doing so, you might be able to keep Mexico’s “best and brightest young men” in Mexico – where they can contribute more to Mexico’s economy than remittance payments. Unfortunately, your recent comments indicate that Mexico will continue its policy of encouraging illegal immigration and treating the United States as little more than a dumping ground for your social and economic problems.
In your speech yesterday to the California State legislature, you lectured the American people on how to improve our immigration policies. Why did you not propose that we model our policies on Mexico’s own policies toward illegal entry across your own southern border? Mexico expends enormous resources to prevent Guatemalans, Hondurans and Salvadorans from entering the country illegally, but you castigate the United States for wanting secure borders. Mr. President, in my neighborhood that is called hypocrisy.
You proposed in your Sacramento speech that “migration” be made “legal, safe and organized.” Mr. President, we already have such a program and it is called legal immigration. Over one million legal immigrants come through our ports of entry each year, not across our border fences. The American people set limits on the number of legal immigrants through our immigration laws, and it is not the job of the Mexican government to revise or expand those limits.
President Calderon, you are insulting the American people when you tell us that fifteen to twenty million illegal aliens in our country bring only benefits and no costs. I challenge you to give one concrete example of how the enforcement of our existing immigration laws violates anyone’s human rights. The people of Oklahoma are not anti-Mexican for passing laws to require verification of employment eligibility. The people of Indiana are not anti-immigrant for passing laws to require photo identification for voting. The people of California are not anti-Mexican for denying driver’s licenses to illegal aliens. The people of Arizona are not anti-immigrant for passing laws that deny welfare benefits to people who are in that state unlawfully.
It is no secret that the purpose of your visit is to influence the American election, and in fact your trip has been billed as a high-stakes effort to shape the immigration debate underway in the U.S. presidential race. What is perhaps more disappointing, however, is your attempt to insinuate that anti-amnesty sentiment here in the U.S. is the same as anti-Mexican sentiment. I am referring to your statement, “I need to change in the perception that the Americans are the enemy, and it is important to change the perception that the Mexicans are the enemy.”
It is both disingenuous and dangerous for you to inject this kind of xenophobia into this debate. The fact that the overwhelming majority of Americans support the enforcement of our immigration laws and take issue with the notion that we should reward illegal behavior, hardly qualifies as ethnic animosity or international enmity. What you must understand is that a treasured aspect of our national foundation is a respect for the rule of law. Perhaps if corruption were not so widespread and commonplace in Mexico, it would be easier for you to understand this.
President Calderon, in many ways your trip thus far has been a long series of mixed messages. You accuse the United States of recent protectionist trends, yet you heavily restrict foreign entry into Mexico’s energy sector through a massive, state-run Pemex monopoly. You assure American politicians that an open flow of cheap Mexican labor is not only benign but vitally necessary, but you take great care in securing your own southern border with Guatemala. You come to the United States purportedly to promote better political and economic ties with the U.S., but then issue a thinly veiled threat that Mexicans will regard the U.S. as an enemy if we refuse to provide millions of illegal aliens with unconditional amnesty.
President Calderon, I respectfully suggest that the next time you visit our country, rather than trying to influence U.S. policymakers or our election process, you take time to listen to Americans rather than lecture them. If you want to make changes in government policies, apply your energies to Mexico’s laundry list of problems rather than meddling in domestic American politics.
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Multiculturalism must be abandoned
When is enough going to be enough, after everyone has been issued a prayer rug? Anyone familiar with the real Islam can attest that it is not compatible with other religions or cultures. It is like communism in that its practitioners want to own the entire world and will not be happy until it does.
Making the American dream
So, the American dream, despite what you might have heard from the media and liberal politicians, is NOT dead. You can still start with nothing and better your lot without an abundance of government handouts and hand-holding. It mostly takes attitude and desire. For every story of the poor, poor, pitiful citizen that just can’t get ahead there is an untold story of someone that did. As is typical for the media though, the stories of success don’t win ratings or prizes so they don’t get done.
As the article alludes to, stories like "Nickel and Dimed," get high praise and much attention because it re-enforces the conventional mime where as I will be real interested in how much coverage the up coming "Scratch Beginnings: Me, $25, and the Search for the American Dream" gets. I would wager not nearly as much.
As the article alludes to, stories like "Nickel and Dimed," get high praise and much attention because it re-enforces the conventional mime where as I will be real interested in how much coverage the up coming "Scratch Beginnings: Me, $25, and the Search for the American Dream" gets. I would wager not nearly as much.
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Alka-Seltzer in space...
This was interesting to watch, as the water and Alka-Seltzer react. It was not really the result I expected either and as one of the presenters says, "That is why you run experiments", to bridge the gap from the theoretical (what you think will happen) to actual (what does happen).
I would be curios to see if no having the wire anchor changes the results any. Does that contact point have an effect on bubble formation and migration.
Give it a look see, it won't hurt a bit!
I would be curios to see if no having the wire anchor changes the results any. Does that contact point have an effect on bubble formation and migration.
Give it a look see, it won't hurt a bit!
Explaining the tax system to the average Democrat
Here is a rather simple and straight forward explanation of our current tax system that is clear enough for even the average Democrat to understand. If after reading this, you still think that the evil rich don’t pay enough in taxes, you have spent far too much time NOT using your brains.
I wish I could take credit for this but I found it in the comments section of this blog entry.
Davies, Professor of Accounting & Chair, Division of Accounting and Business Law The University of South Dakota
What is there about this simple illustration that some don't understand? And, why do they use such inflammatory rhetoric to pit those getting the free lunch against those who are paying for it?
Let's put tax cuts in terms everyone can understand.
Suppose that every day, ten men go out for dinner. The bill for all ten comes to $100. If they paid their bill the way we pay our taxes, it would go something like this. The first four men -- the poorest -- would pay nothing; the fifth would pay $1, the sixth would pay $3, the seventh $7, the eighth $12, the ninth $18, and the tenth man -- the richest -- would pay $59.
That's what they decided to do. The ten men ate dinner in the restaurant every day and seemed quite happy with the arrangement -- until one day, the owner threw them a curve (in tax language a tax cut). "Since you are all such good customers," he said, "I'm going to reduce the cost of your daily meal by $20." So now dinner for the ten only cost $80.00.
The group still wanted to pay their bill the way we pay our taxes. So the first four men were unaffected. They would still eat for free. But what about the other six -- the paying customers? How could they divvy up the $20 windfall so that everyone would get his "fair share?" The six men realized that $20 divided by six is $3.33. But if they subtracted that from everybody's share, then the fifth man and the sixth man would end up being PAID to eat their meal. So the restaurant owner suggested that it would be fair to reduce each man's bill by roughly the same amount, and he proceeded to work out the amounts each should pay. And so the fifth man paid nothing, the sixth pitched in $2, the seventh paid $5, the eighth paid $9, the ninth paid $12, leaving the tenth man with a bill of $52 instead of his earlier $59.
Each of the six was better off than before. And the first four continued to eat for free. But once outside the restaurant, the men began to compare their savings. "I only got a dollar out of the $20," declared the sixth man, but he, pointing to the tenth. "But he got $7!". "Yeah, that's right," exclaimed the fifth man, "I only saved a dollar, too, ........It's unfair that he got seven times more than me!". "That's true!" shouted the seventh man," why should he get $7 back when I got only $2? The wealthy get all the breaks!". Wait a minute," yelled the first four men in unison, "We didn't get anything at all. The system exploits the poor!" The nine men surrounded the tenth and beat him up.
The next night he didn't show up for dinner, so the nine sat down and ate without him. But when it came time to pay the bill, they discovered, a little late what was very important. They were FIFTY-TWO DOLLARS short of paying the bill! Imagine that! And that, boys and girls, journalists and college instructors, is how the tax system works. The people who pay the highest taxes get the most benefit from a tax reduction. Tax them too much, attack them for being wealthy, and they just may not show up at the table anymore. Where would that leave the rest? Unfortunately, most taxing authorities, and many US voters, cannot seem to grasp this rather straightforward logic!
I wish I could take credit for this but I found it in the comments section of this blog entry.
Davies, Professor of Accounting & Chair, Division of Accounting and Business Law The University of South Dakota
What is there about this simple illustration that some don't understand? And, why do they use such inflammatory rhetoric to pit those getting the free lunch against those who are paying for it?
Let's put tax cuts in terms everyone can understand.
Suppose that every day, ten men go out for dinner. The bill for all ten comes to $100. If they paid their bill the way we pay our taxes, it would go something like this. The first four men -- the poorest -- would pay nothing; the fifth would pay $1, the sixth would pay $3, the seventh $7, the eighth $12, the ninth $18, and the tenth man -- the richest -- would pay $59.
That's what they decided to do. The ten men ate dinner in the restaurant every day and seemed quite happy with the arrangement -- until one day, the owner threw them a curve (in tax language a tax cut). "Since you are all such good customers," he said, "I'm going to reduce the cost of your daily meal by $20." So now dinner for the ten only cost $80.00.
The group still wanted to pay their bill the way we pay our taxes. So the first four men were unaffected. They would still eat for free. But what about the other six -- the paying customers? How could they divvy up the $20 windfall so that everyone would get his "fair share?" The six men realized that $20 divided by six is $3.33. But if they subtracted that from everybody's share, then the fifth man and the sixth man would end up being PAID to eat their meal. So the restaurant owner suggested that it would be fair to reduce each man's bill by roughly the same amount, and he proceeded to work out the amounts each should pay. And so the fifth man paid nothing, the sixth pitched in $2, the seventh paid $5, the eighth paid $9, the ninth paid $12, leaving the tenth man with a bill of $52 instead of his earlier $59.
Each of the six was better off than before. And the first four continued to eat for free. But once outside the restaurant, the men began to compare their savings. "I only got a dollar out of the $20," declared the sixth man, but he, pointing to the tenth. "But he got $7!". "Yeah, that's right," exclaimed the fifth man, "I only saved a dollar, too, ........It's unfair that he got seven times more than me!". "That's true!" shouted the seventh man," why should he get $7 back when I got only $2? The wealthy get all the breaks!". Wait a minute," yelled the first four men in unison, "We didn't get anything at all. The system exploits the poor!" The nine men surrounded the tenth and beat him up.
The next night he didn't show up for dinner, so the nine sat down and ate without him. But when it came time to pay the bill, they discovered, a little late what was very important. They were FIFTY-TWO DOLLARS short of paying the bill! Imagine that! And that, boys and girls, journalists and college instructors, is how the tax system works. The people who pay the highest taxes get the most benefit from a tax reduction. Tax them too much, attack them for being wealthy, and they just may not show up at the table anymore. Where would that leave the rest? Unfortunately, most taxing authorities, and many US voters, cannot seem to grasp this rather straightforward logic!
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
Monday, February 11, 2008
Cloverfield
Saw the movie Cloverfield and as I am sure you have already heard, it is a cross between Blair Witch and Godzilla. It was a fair enough movie and my wife and I enjoyed it. The first 15 minutes or so can be a problem if you have vision/motion problems as the camera jerks around quite a bit. It does settle down a good bit after that and becomes much less of a problem. I was pleased that you do eventually get to see the “monster”. It is not a just glimpsed “secret” for the entire movie leaving you wondering what the thing was. You still wonder what it is and where it came from but you do get some good looks at it.
I would very much like to see them make a sequel, Cloverfield Redux or some such where they do the same movie but this time in a more traditional fashion. They could have 2 or three strategic cross-over scenes where the cast from the first movie are featured in the second to help give it some continuity.
If you liked Blair Witch and you liked Resident Evil, you will like this movie.
I would very much like to see them make a sequel, Cloverfield Redux or some such where they do the same movie but this time in a more traditional fashion. They could have 2 or three strategic cross-over scenes where the cast from the first movie are featured in the second to help give it some continuity.
If you liked Blair Witch and you liked Resident Evil, you will like this movie.
Friday, February 8, 2008
Hamas: We're Allowed to Lie
Well isn't that just special!
If that is the case (and they have admitted that it is) how is anything they say to be believed? Answer, it isn't. The only thing you can believe and trust are their actions not their talk. They will be ready for peace with Israel when they demonstrate that they are by stopping the rocket attacks, suicide bombings and teaching/training their children to hate Israel and to kill Jews.
Until that day comes, Israel can not afford any more capitulation to Palestine or UN pressure.
If that is the case (and they have admitted that it is) how is anything they say to be believed? Answer, it isn't. The only thing you can believe and trust are their actions not their talk. They will be ready for peace with Israel when they demonstrate that they are by stopping the rocket attacks, suicide bombings and teaching/training their children to hate Israel and to kill Jews.
Until that day comes, Israel can not afford any more capitulation to Palestine or UN pressure.
Hugs and kisses from Air America
It is amusing to me that this sort of "humor" is tolerated when it comes from those on the left side of the political aisle but would result in mass condemnations and calls for dismissal if someone on the right were to do the same thing. If Rush or Boortz ran such a "parody" skit that said if you did not vote for Obama, that Obama supporters would kill everyone and then themselves, the left and media would be all over it and would be calling for his firing. As it was aired on a left wing show and attacked right wingers, well then that is just OK. A simple apology will do if anyone notices. I don't know why I am surprised anymore at this constant double standard. It has gone on long enough that I should be used to it by now.
Received via email...
The following is an email that was received, verbatim...
Letter from one "Angry Woman" I don't know who wrote it but they should have signed it. Some powerful words. This woman should run for president.
Written by a housewife from New Jersey and sounds like it! This is one ticked off lady.
"Are we fighting a war on terror or aren't we? Was it or was it not started by Islamic people who brought it to our shores on September 11, 2001?
Were people from all over the world, mostly Americans, not brutally murdered that day, in downtown Manhattan , across the Potomac from our nation's capitol and in a field in Pennsylvania ?
Did nearly three thousand men, women and children die a horrible, burning or crushing death that day, or didn't they?
And I'm supposed to care that a copy of the Koran was "desecrated" when an overworked American soldier kicked it or got it wet?..Well, I don't. I don't care at all.
I'll start caring when Osama bin Laden turns himself in and repents for incinerating all those innocent people on 9/11.
I'll care about the Koran when the fanatics in the Middle East start caring about the Holy Bible, the mere possession of which is a crime in Saudi Arabia.
I'll care when these thugs tell the world they are sorry for hacking off Nick Berg's head while Berg screamed through his gurgling slashed throat.
I'll care when the cowardly so-called "insurgents" in Iraq come out and fight like men instead of disrespecting their own religion by hiding in mosques.
I'll care when the mindless zealots who blow themselves up in search of nirvana care about the innocent children within range of their suicide bombs.
I'll care when the American media stops pretending that their First Amendment liberties are somehow derived from international law instead of the United States Constitution's Bill of Rights.
In the meantime, when I hear a story about a brave marine roughing up an Iraqi terrorist to obtain information, know this: I don't care.
When I see a fuzzy photo of a pile of naked Iraqi prisoners who have been humiliated in what amounts to a college-hazing incident, rest assured: I don't care.
When I see a wounded terrorist get shot in the head when he is told not to move because he might be booby-trapped, you can take it to the bank: I don't care.
When I hear that a prisoner, who was issued a Koran and a prayer mat, and fed "special" food that is paid for by my tax dollars, is complaining that his holy book is being "mishandled," you can absolutely believe in your heart of hearts: I don't care.
And oh, by the way, I've noticed that sometimes it's spelled "Koran" and other times "Quran." Well, Jimmy Crack Corn and-you guessed it-I don't care!!
If you agree with this viewpoint, pass this on to all your E-mail friends. Sooner or later, it'll get to the people responsible for this ridiculous behavior!
If you don't agree, then by all means hit the delete button. Should you choose the latter, then please don't complain when more atrocities committed by radical Muslims happen here in our great Country!
And may I add: "Some people spend an entire lifetime wondering if they made a difference in the world. But, the Marines don't have that problem" -- Ronald Reagan
I have another quote that I would like to add AND......I hope you forward all this. "If we ever forget that we're One Nation Under God, then we will be a nation gone under." Also by.. Ronald Reagan
One last thought for the day: In case we find ourselves starting to believe all the Anti-American sentiment and negativity, we should remember England 's Prime Minister Tony Blair's words during a recent interview. When asked by one of his Parliament members why he believes so much in America , he said: "A simple way to take measure of a country is to look at how many want in.. And how many want out."
Only two defining forces have ever offered to die for you:
1. Jesus Christ
2. The American G. I.
One died for your soul, the other for your freedom.
YOU MIGHT WANT TO PASS THIS ON, AS MANY SEEM TO FORGET BOTH OF THEM. AMEN!
Letter from one "Angry Woman" I don't know who wrote it but they should have signed it. Some powerful words. This woman should run for president.
Written by a housewife from New Jersey and sounds like it! This is one ticked off lady.
"Are we fighting a war on terror or aren't we? Was it or was it not started by Islamic people who brought it to our shores on September 11, 2001?
Were people from all over the world, mostly Americans, not brutally murdered that day, in downtown Manhattan , across the Potomac from our nation's capitol and in a field in Pennsylvania ?
Did nearly three thousand men, women and children die a horrible, burning or crushing death that day, or didn't they?
And I'm supposed to care that a copy of the Koran was "desecrated" when an overworked American soldier kicked it or got it wet?..Well, I don't. I don't care at all.
I'll start caring when Osama bin Laden turns himself in and repents for incinerating all those innocent people on 9/11.
I'll care about the Koran when the fanatics in the Middle East start caring about the Holy Bible, the mere possession of which is a crime in Saudi Arabia.
I'll care when these thugs tell the world they are sorry for hacking off Nick Berg's head while Berg screamed through his gurgling slashed throat.
I'll care when the cowardly so-called "insurgents" in Iraq come out and fight like men instead of disrespecting their own religion by hiding in mosques.
I'll care when the mindless zealots who blow themselves up in search of nirvana care about the innocent children within range of their suicide bombs.
I'll care when the American media stops pretending that their First Amendment liberties are somehow derived from international law instead of the United States Constitution's Bill of Rights.
In the meantime, when I hear a story about a brave marine roughing up an Iraqi terrorist to obtain information, know this: I don't care.
When I see a fuzzy photo of a pile of naked Iraqi prisoners who have been humiliated in what amounts to a college-hazing incident, rest assured: I don't care.
When I see a wounded terrorist get shot in the head when he is told not to move because he might be booby-trapped, you can take it to the bank: I don't care.
When I hear that a prisoner, who was issued a Koran and a prayer mat, and fed "special" food that is paid for by my tax dollars, is complaining that his holy book is being "mishandled," you can absolutely believe in your heart of hearts: I don't care.
And oh, by the way, I've noticed that sometimes it's spelled "Koran" and other times "Quran." Well, Jimmy Crack Corn and-you guessed it-I don't care!!
If you agree with this viewpoint, pass this on to all your E-mail friends. Sooner or later, it'll get to the people responsible for this ridiculous behavior!
If you don't agree, then by all means hit the delete button. Should you choose the latter, then please don't complain when more atrocities committed by radical Muslims happen here in our great Country!
And may I add: "Some people spend an entire lifetime wondering if they made a difference in the world. But, the Marines don't have that problem" -- Ronald Reagan
I have another quote that I would like to add AND......I hope you forward all this. "If we ever forget that we're One Nation Under God, then we will be a nation gone under." Also by.. Ronald Reagan
One last thought for the day: In case we find ourselves starting to believe all the Anti-American sentiment and negativity, we should remember England 's Prime Minister Tony Blair's words during a recent interview. When asked by one of his Parliament members why he believes so much in America , he said: "A simple way to take measure of a country is to look at how many want in.. And how many want out."
Only two defining forces have ever offered to die for you:
1. Jesus Christ
2. The American G. I.
One died for your soul, the other for your freedom.
YOU MIGHT WANT TO PASS THIS ON, AS MANY SEEM TO FORGET BOTH OF THEM. AMEN!
Wednesday, February 6, 2008
More of Hillary's funny money
The Kurdish News reported that the producer of one of the most hostile anti-American films made in Turkey "Valley of the Wolves-Irak" is a Hillary Clinton megadonor and bundler and was appointed a delegate by Hillary clinton to the Democratic National Convention later this year.
Don't expect this to make any headlines.
An't that the truth!
Don't expect this to make any headlines.
An't that the truth!
So much for evil corporate profits...
In other words, just one corporation (Exxon Mobil) pays as much in taxes ($27 billion) annually as the entire bottom 50% of individual taxpayers, which is 65,000,000 people! Further, the tax rate for the bottom 50% is only 3% of adjusted gross income ($27.4 billion / $922 billion), and the tax rate for Exxon was 41% in 2006 ($67.4 billion in taxable income, $27.9 billion in taxes).
Bet you won't hear Hillary talking about that at one of her campain stops.
Bet you won't hear Hillary talking about that at one of her campain stops.
Tuesday, February 5, 2008
Monday, February 4, 2008
There is no end to the ills caused by global warming!
Zombie attacks might increase due to global warming, study shows.
Save us Al Gore!
Save us Al Gore!
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