Friday, January 14, 2005
ACLU and Teachers Against Critical Thinking
The ACLU won a court battle to have some stickers removed from science textbooks in Georgia, which read:
The reason they are enraged is because someone might dare to have an open mind and think critically, because ACLU power is based on ignorance, hatred, intolerance, and bigotry. Perish the thought that they would ever fight for America or Liberty.
UPDATE: See also Scrappleface's take on this story.
UPDATE 2: Even Berkeley admits evolution is just a theory!
UPDATE 3: Dr. John Mark Reynolds states the case more clearly, and expands on it.
This textbook contains material on evolution. Evolution is a theory, not a fact, regarding the origin of living things. This material should be approached with an open mind, studied carefully and critically considered.
The reason they are enraged is because someone might dare to have an open mind and think critically, because ACLU power is based on ignorance, hatred, intolerance, and bigotry. Perish the thought that they would ever fight for America or Liberty.
UPDATE: See also Scrappleface's take on this story.
UPDATE 2: Even Berkeley admits evolution is just a theory!
UPDATE 3: Dr. John Mark Reynolds states the case more clearly, and expands on it.
Pro Sports
From the Boston Herald: MLB puts muscle in new steroid policy.
and in related news...
and in related news...
After years of looking the other way, NASCAR finally took action to combat the epidemic that has tarnished stock car racing and implemented a testing program that it believes will eliminate the unfair advantages garnered by a growing number of mechanically enhanced cars.
Bank Service
forwarded humor:
---
Dear Sir:
I am writing to thank you for bouncing my check with which I endeavored to pay my plumber last month. By my calculations, three nanoseconds must have elapsed between his presenting the check and the arrival in my account of the funds needed to honor it.
I refer, of course, to the automatic monthly deposit of my entire salary, an arrangement which, I admit, has been in place for only eight years. You are to be commended for seizing that brief window of opportunity and also for debiting my account $30 by way of penalty for the inconvenience caused to your bank.
My thankfulness springs from the manner in which this incident has caused me to rethink my errant financial ways. I notice that whereas I personally attend to your telephone calls and letter, when I try to contact you, I am confronted by the impersonal, overcharging pre-recorded, faceless entity which your bank has become.
From now on, I, like you, choose only to deal with a flesh-and-blood person. My mortgage and loan repayments will therefore and hereafter, no longer be automatic, but will arrive at your bank, by check, addressed personally and confidentially to an employee at your bank, whom you must nominate. Be aware, that it is an offense under the Postal Act for any other person to open such an envelope. Please find attached an Application Contact Status, which I require your chosen employee to complete. I am sorry it runs into eight pages, but in order that I know as much about him or her as your bank knows about me, there is no alternative. Please note that all copies of his or her medical history must be countersigned by a Notary Public and the mandatory details of his/her financial situation (income, debts, assets and liabilities) must be accompanied by documented proof. In due course, I will issue your employee a PIN number which, he/she must quote in dealings with me. I regret it, that it cannot be shorter than 28 digits, but again, I have modeled it on the number of button presses required of me to access my account balance on your phone bank service.
As they say, imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. Let me level the playing field even further. When you call me, press the buttons as follows:
Regrettably, but again following your example, I must also levy an establishment fee to cover the setting up of the new arrangement. May I wish you a happy, if ever so slightly less prosperous New Year!
Your Humble Client.
---
Dear Sir:
I am writing to thank you for bouncing my check with which I endeavored to pay my plumber last month. By my calculations, three nanoseconds must have elapsed between his presenting the check and the arrival in my account of the funds needed to honor it.
I refer, of course, to the automatic monthly deposit of my entire salary, an arrangement which, I admit, has been in place for only eight years. You are to be commended for seizing that brief window of opportunity and also for debiting my account $30 by way of penalty for the inconvenience caused to your bank.
My thankfulness springs from the manner in which this incident has caused me to rethink my errant financial ways. I notice that whereas I personally attend to your telephone calls and letter, when I try to contact you, I am confronted by the impersonal, overcharging pre-recorded, faceless entity which your bank has become.
From now on, I, like you, choose only to deal with a flesh-and-blood person. My mortgage and loan repayments will therefore and hereafter, no longer be automatic, but will arrive at your bank, by check, addressed personally and confidentially to an employee at your bank, whom you must nominate. Be aware, that it is an offense under the Postal Act for any other person to open such an envelope. Please find attached an Application Contact Status, which I require your chosen employee to complete. I am sorry it runs into eight pages, but in order that I know as much about him or her as your bank knows about me, there is no alternative. Please note that all copies of his or her medical history must be countersigned by a Notary Public and the mandatory details of his/her financial situation (income, debts, assets and liabilities) must be accompanied by documented proof. In due course, I will issue your employee a PIN number which, he/she must quote in dealings with me. I regret it, that it cannot be shorter than 28 digits, but again, I have modeled it on the number of button presses required of me to access my account balance on your phone bank service.
As they say, imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. Let me level the playing field even further. When you call me, press the buttons as follows:
- To make an appointment to see me.
- To query a missing payment.
- To transfer the call to my living room in case I am there.
- To transfer the call to my bedroom in case I am sleeping.
- To transfer the call to my toilet in case I am attending to nature.
- To transfer the call to my mobile phone if I am not at home.
- To leave a message on my computer, a password to access my computer is required. Password will be communicated to you at a later date to the Authorized Contact.
- To return to the main menu and to listen to options 1 through 7.
- To make a general complaint or inquiry. The contact will then be put on hold pending the attention of my automated answering service. While this may, on occasion, involve a lengthy wait, uplifting music will play for the duration of the call.
Regrettably, but again following your example, I must also levy an establishment fee to cover the setting up of the new arrangement. May I wish you a happy, if ever so slightly less prosperous New Year!
Your Humble Client.
Wednesday, January 12, 2005
Protestors arrested in Philadelphia
The story is at Evangelical Underground.
Reminds me of Acts 4:18-20
Reminds me of Acts 4:18-20
Then (the Sanhedrin) called them in again and commanded them not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus. But Peter and John replied, “Judge for yourselves whether it is right in God's sight to obey you rather than God. For we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard.”
linklist update
1) Duckwriter has been added.
2) Does anyone know if/when True Blue Gal is moving to her new site? I lost the old link.
2) Does anyone know if/when True Blue Gal is moving to her new site? I lost the old link.
Kmart blue-state special
Attention, close-minded bigoted liberal hypocrites:
Attention, red-state parents. Are you worried about what your children are seeing on TV? Have you caught them ogling "Desperate Housewives" and "Hos In The Hood" as they engage in pornographic acts with anything that moves? Now you can protect your children from primetime television the same way you protect them from drug dealers and pedophiles. It's called "The Off Switch". Use it often, it's free!
Attention, blue-state parents. Are you worried about what your children are seeing on TV? Have you caught them ogling Ann Coulter and Sean Hannity as they engage in explicit acts of love with Bush administration policies? Now you can protect your little liberals from hard-core right-wing positions the same way you censor cable porn. For just $8.95, The FOXBlocker eliminates the risk of exposure to Fox News Channel.
Attention, red-state parents. Are you worried about what your children are seeing on TV? Have you caught them ogling "Desperate Housewives" and "Hos In The Hood" as they engage in pornographic acts with anything that moves? Now you can protect your children from primetime television the same way you protect them from drug dealers and pedophiles. It's called "The Off Switch". Use it often, it's free!
Tuesday, January 11, 2005
NO, NO, NO!
Duckwriter makes some bad assumptions:
(I've posted on this before)
UPDATE: Duckwriter responded, and I commented there. Also, his observations about the lameness of the CBS investigation and the Washington re-re-recounts are spot-on.
I think bloggers should have the same kind of code (of ethics). I see no reason why we can't get together and form a society in which a code (unique to blogging) can be agreed upon... If blogging really is going to become a new medium, rather than simply a loose confederation of ideologues -- and if we wish to be viewed as a viable alternative to the mainstream media -- then we are going to have to start doing the actual work of journalism, rather than being content to throw spitballs at the MSM when they screw up.
(I've posted on this before)
- I see lots of reasons bloggers (c/w)ouldn't agree on a code.
- Journalists already had a code, which was just about as effective as a UN resolution.
- Who will enforce these rules - thought police?
- I have less than zero interest in joining a society.
- Who says blogging has to become a new medium?
- I care nothing about being part of a new media. (Here comes the new boss, same as the old boss.)
- I don't need another job that doesn't pay.
- It's called freedom of speech - look it up.
UPDATE: Duckwriter responded, and I commented there. Also, his observations about the lameness of the CBS investigation and the Washington re-re-recounts are spot-on.
Mapes still doesn't get it
Here's what she said, and here are some "inaccurate but true" quotes to parallel hers:
"I am shocked by the vitriolic Bush-bashing inherent to CBS's reporting. I am very concerned that their reports are motivated by anti-American political considerations -- ideology rather than journalism."
"Ms. Mapes’s response to the review panel’s report and the panel’s assessment of the evidence it developed in its investigation combine not only to condemn herself, but to put all investigative reporting in the CBS tradition under suspicion."
"Much has been made about the fact that these documents are photocopies and therefore cannot be trusted, but decades of their "investigative" reporting have relied on just such fraudulent memos, documents and notes."
"I am shocked by the vitriolic Bush-bashing inherent to CBS's reporting. I am very concerned that their reports are motivated by anti-American political considerations -- ideology rather than journalism."
"Ms. Mapes’s response to the review panel’s report and the panel’s assessment of the evidence it developed in its investigation combine not only to condemn herself, but to put all investigative reporting in the CBS tradition under suspicion."
"Much has been made about the fact that these documents are photocopies and therefore cannot be trusted, but decades of their "investigative" reporting have relied on just such fraudulent memos, documents and notes."
Monday, January 10, 2005
Saturday, January 08, 2005
Sick
Will we see Abu-Ghraib-level coverage of this scandal? How about protestors chanting "No Eggs For Sex!" We should, but we won't...
RWD's list
Right Wing Duck is an awesome writer. Him use grammer; and corect speling - and do reel research. It’s the kind of writing I would aspire to if'n I had any mad skillz.
But I feel I can offer an observation - one that can only come from a parodist. I feel that deep down inside, Right Wing Duck is jealous of the Hatless team. In fact, I strongly suspect that Mr. Duck secretly longs to throw away his hat and move to Hattiesburg. But having no map, he always gets lost, realizing too late that he should have used more left rudder over the Albuquerque airport.
But I feel I can offer an observation - one that can only come from a parodist. I feel that deep down inside, Right Wing Duck is jealous of the Hatless team. In fact, I strongly suspect that Mr. Duck secretly longs to throw away his hat and move to Hattiesburg. But having no map, he always gets lost, realizing too late that he should have used more left rudder over the Albuquerque airport.
Thursday, January 06, 2005
How To Make A Zombie
1) Find out the hours at which your employee is most productive and most suited to work.
2) Make his work schedule diametrically opposed to those hours - i.e. substitute AM for PM, and vice versa.
3) Ignore any complaints he may raise, but reprimand him for showing zombielike symptoms.
4) Continue for two years.
works for me!
2) Make his work schedule diametrically opposed to those hours - i.e. substitute AM for PM, and vice versa.
3) Ignore any complaints he may raise, but reprimand him for showing zombielike symptoms.
4) Continue for two years.
works for me!
Sig Heil, Abdul
Check out these thugs.
UPDATE: Here's a suitable logo for the aforementioned thugs. It's in a scrolling banner for "martyrdom assistance", so it can't be linked directly, and might not be there later.
UPDATE: Here's a suitable logo for the aforementioned thugs. It's in a scrolling banner for "martyrdom assistance", so it can't be linked directly, and might not be there later.
...if he only had a heart
Go read the latest installment in the ongoing saga, "Mikey Moore's a Moron".
Wednesday, January 05, 2005
I'ma gonna SUE!
Mark Steyn used two offensive words in this article. I demand that he cease and desist from referring to other religious holidays. "Boxing Day" is a highly offensive term to other sorts of containers, and "Ramadan" (and its cousin "Kwanzaa") are highly offensive terms to the heathen-impaired.
:P ;)
:P ;)
go read...
This one by Mark Steyn, who asks "What's it all about, Algae?"
and these two at Townhall:
"Are we a republic or a democracy?" by Walter E. Williams
"Resolutions" by Chuck Colson
and these two at Townhall:
"Are we a republic or a democracy?" by Walter E. Williams
"Resolutions" by Chuck Colson
Eradicate Intolerance!
John Leo wrote this piece about Wesleyan College, where diversity is so great that "you can meet people here from almost every neighborhood in Manhattan, and the students tend to have opinions from every known corner of MoveOn.org."
Tuesday, January 04, 2005
An Awkward Pause
My friends and I used to comment to each other when we noticed a sentence that we thought had never been uttered before on the planet. The Awkward Pause's "History of Shingles, Part 2" contains one of those sentences:
Read the whole thing - the rest of that story (and several other posts) struck me as funny. I hope that is the way they were intended...
I can only shudder to think how the good residents of Brentwood, Chelmsford and Witham are coping with no review of Prince of Persia: The Warrior Within and just a long, drawn out report of some fool from Ingatestone who has made an exceptionally large cheese flan.
Read the whole thing - the rest of that story (and several other posts) struck me as funny. I hope that is the way they were intended...
yo, richie...
“Hi, I’m Hatless in Hattiesburg and I’m speaking for the entire world. We’re against you Hollyweird limousine liberals since the last election. It’s really important: SHUT THE $*%&# $^&% UP, RICHARD, AND THE REST OF YOU #*$%& *&$^%&* MORONS!!!!!!”
Monday, January 03, 2005
tsunami tragedy
Hugh Hewitt has some links to theological discussions of the tsunami tragedy:
- Eidos
- Mark D Roberts (part 1 in a series)
- It Takes a Church
who's stingy?
It's not the primary point of Mark Steyn's article about European holidays, but this quote leapt out at me:
...though the Europeans preen about their kinder, gentler society, customers of Amazon.com have pledged more money to disaster relief in the Indian Ocean than the French government.
Friday, December 31, 2004
A Little Good News
Time for a little good news. It's a good article, except for that last sentence...
Thursday, December 30, 2004
anagrams
I entered the name "hatless in hattiesburg" on an automatic anagram generation page. It gave literally thousands of results - but a lot of them contained coarse language. Here are some of the better clean ones, to which I added a brief possible explanation/scenario/definition:
- HEATABLE STRINGS HIT US - cause for ultralight aircraft crash
- STUN HIS TREATABLE SIGH - harsh medical treatment
- TUT HISSES ALGEBRA HINT - cheating pharaoh
- HE TUGS STAINABLE SHIRT - scene from slacker movie
- SING US THREE TABLA HITS - bombay karaoke request
- SLUSH IN EGRETS HABITAT - environmentalist nightmare
- SETTLERS BANISH AI THUG - matrix in the old west
- REESTABLISH TITAN HUGS - obscure protest slogan
- THE SLIER THUG ABSTAINS - zen and the art of burglary
- HAIL TUBE STRAIGHTNESS - kudos for excellence in pipe manufacture
- IRISH ATHLETES STUN BAG - soccer incident
- ISIS GATHERS HUN TABLETS - scene from stargate sequel
- GAUSSIAN BETHEL THIRST - surreal band name
- HEARTLESS BATHING SUIT - dieter's fear
Y.A.C.H.
The Y.A.C.H. acronym stands for Yet Another Computer Hijacking.
The term became necessary because (drum roll please) my computer was hijacked YET AGAIN!!! It can become tiresome to keep typing out "Guess what? My computer was hijacked yet again", so now I can just title an entry with YACH!, and you'll know that (moviepreviewvoice) in a world of cyberthugs... a new chapter has been added... in the story of one man... in his ongoing struggle... to try to maintain control... of his own computer... (\moviepreviewvoice)
This time the hijackers are my former ISP - or more accurately, the faceless corporation that bought out the faceless corporation that bought out my original ISP. I discontinued service with them to switch to SBC* DSL. Now, on about one page out of ten, the content that I wanted to see is replaced by a warning which says I need to change my DNS settings to make sure that I can still use the service that I CANCELLED OVER A YEAR AGO.
YACH!
* SBC has been wonderful. They have that rare winning combination of having both good customer service and a good product.
The term became necessary because (drum roll please) my computer was hijacked YET AGAIN!!! It can become tiresome to keep typing out "Guess what? My computer was hijacked yet again", so now I can just title an entry with YACH!, and you'll know that (moviepreviewvoice) in a world of cyberthugs... a new chapter has been added... in the story of one man... in his ongoing struggle... to try to maintain control... of his own computer... (\moviepreviewvoice)
This time the hijackers are my former ISP - or more accurately, the faceless corporation that bought out the faceless corporation that bought out my original ISP. I discontinued service with them to switch to SBC* DSL. Now, on about one page out of ten, the content that I wanted to see is replaced by a warning which says I need to change my DNS settings to make sure that I can still use the service that I CANCELLED OVER A YEAR AGO.
YACH!
* SBC has been wonderful. They have that rare winning combination of having both good customer service and a good product.
Wednesday, December 29, 2004
good news
it seems that the war on drugs is having some effect. as i've been traveling, most towns have a sign near the city limits which reads "reduced speed ahead"...
Thursday, December 23, 2004
Last-Minute Gift Idea
If you just can't think of the perfect gift for someone, consider getting them a FREE promo Hatless in Hattiesburg desktop wallpaper image! They're an especially good gift idea if you're on a tight budget.
Wednesday, December 22, 2004
light holiday posting
As with many blogs, there probably won't be much new here until 2005.
I wish all of you a merry Christmas and a happy New Year.
I wish all of you a merry Christmas and a happy New Year.
Tuesday, December 21, 2004
Monday, December 20, 2004
Migration of Waterfowl
After a somewhat circuitous migration, it looks like the Rightwing Duck has finally settled into a new nest. Even though there's still some remodeling going on, I'm sure visitors are welcome.
You know what's cool?
1) New and improved resealable strips on frozen food bags, which are designed to tear away from the bag upon opening..
2) Migrating office supplies.
3) Metamorphosizing desserts in tv dinners:
a) chocolate brownies that change into armor plating when microwaved.
b) pudding that crawls up the sides of its compartment to invade the other sections.
5) When you cut your finger on a piece of porcelain that broke off the lid of the commode because you set it in a place which was rather precarious when you had to replace the float in the commode tank that you broke because you were trying to adjust it without realizing that it was fragile because of age, shoddy design, and the effects of long term exposure to hard water that tastes and smells funny and makes you wonder what was in it when you were rinsing off a cut finger in it.
8) Run-on sentences.
9) Houses designed with no electrical outlet in the only wall that will fit the entertainment center.
6) Poorly numbered lists.
7) Ancient rustbucket Volkswagen microbuses, with underinflated tires and covered in hippie bumperstickers, that belch more smoke and leak more oil in a block than my car does in a month. We'll probably have to drill in ANWR because of their waste. (NO OIL FOR HIPPIES!!!)
2) Migrating office supplies.
3) Metamorphosizing desserts in tv dinners:
a) chocolate brownies that change into armor plating when microwaved.
b) pudding that crawls up the sides of its compartment to invade the other sections.
5) When you cut your finger on a piece of porcelain that broke off the lid of the commode because you set it in a place which was rather precarious when you had to replace the float in the commode tank that you broke because you were trying to adjust it without realizing that it was fragile because of age, shoddy design, and the effects of long term exposure to hard water that tastes and smells funny and makes you wonder what was in it when you were rinsing off a cut finger in it.
8) Run-on sentences.
9) Houses designed with no electrical outlet in the only wall that will fit the entertainment center.
6) Poorly numbered lists.
7) Ancient rustbucket Volkswagen microbuses, with underinflated tires and covered in hippie bumperstickers, that belch more smoke and leak more oil in a block than my car does in a month. We'll probably have to drill in ANWR because of their waste. (NO OIL FOR HIPPIES!!!)
Saturday, December 18, 2004
What is it, exactly, that we celebrate?
Christmas has a "meaning that's a bit more worth celebrating... than that Santa was able to cajole Rudolph into guiding his sleigh onto every rooftop before dawn."
Friday, December 17, 2004
Free Desktop Images
There's a new link on the right for the page of Hatless in Hattiesburg's free desktop images. Take a look, download your favorites, and tell your friends.
(lamest. ad. copy. ever.)
(lamest. ad. copy. ever.)
What's the frequency, Kofi?
Go read "Annan Would 'Like to Break' UN Scandal Story" by Scott Ott. Heeheehee.
The Trees
"and the trees will be kept equal, by hatchet, axe, and saw".
if this is true, there will be unrest in the forest.
if this is true, there will be unrest in the forest.
Wednesday, December 15, 2004
shopping can be fun!
...for others. i'm not too fond of it, though.
(yes, i'm rambling)
yesterday i went to the mall. i was under the impression that malls were supposed to have a variety of stores under one roof - apparently that means a variety of clothing stores, with just a few extra places with overpriced bric-a-brac that nobody i know would want.
i was looking for toys for a two-year-old. the department stores no longer sell toys, or they are keeping them well hidden. there was one toy store in the mall. kaybee. (is it against the law for them to have stores not in a mall? maybe it's part of the wright amendment...) anyway, they had some cute stuff, most of them for ages 3 and up.
3 is larger than 2.
of the under-three toys, none of them seemed "right" for this two-year-old. the toddler already has plenty of stuffed animals and bath toys. then i remembered someone mentioning duplo - lego's double sized building blocks for smaller kids. that particular kaybee location had lots of knockoffs, but only one duplo kit, a giraffe, and its box was bent.
no sale. but now i knew what i was looking for.
i left the store trying to remember where the closest toys 'r us location was. then i saw their logo on a billboard. what luck! wait a minute - it's an ad for the toys 'r us aisle at albertsons. argh.
i gave up and went to walmart, where i found several duplo brand building sets for about half of what i was expecting to pay. so i bought two.
i also bought a few other things (it's true that you always buy more than you planned at walmart, even for an antishopper like me), including some little red bows for the packages. i set them on the top of the pile in the cart so they wouldn't get crushed, but (unexpectedly) where they would blow off into the lane directly in front of a speeding cadillac, with comedic timing worthy of a laverne and shirley episode.
(yes, i'm rambling)
yesterday i went to the mall. i was under the impression that malls were supposed to have a variety of stores under one roof - apparently that means a variety of clothing stores, with just a few extra places with overpriced bric-a-brac that nobody i know would want.
i was looking for toys for a two-year-old. the department stores no longer sell toys, or they are keeping them well hidden. there was one toy store in the mall. kaybee. (is it against the law for them to have stores not in a mall? maybe it's part of the wright amendment...) anyway, they had some cute stuff, most of them for ages 3 and up.
3 is larger than 2.
of the under-three toys, none of them seemed "right" for this two-year-old. the toddler already has plenty of stuffed animals and bath toys. then i remembered someone mentioning duplo - lego's double sized building blocks for smaller kids. that particular kaybee location had lots of knockoffs, but only one duplo kit, a giraffe, and its box was bent.
no sale. but now i knew what i was looking for.
i left the store trying to remember where the closest toys 'r us location was. then i saw their logo on a billboard. what luck! wait a minute - it's an ad for the toys 'r us aisle at albertsons. argh.
i gave up and went to walmart, where i found several duplo brand building sets for about half of what i was expecting to pay. so i bought two.
i also bought a few other things (it's true that you always buy more than you planned at walmart, even for an antishopper like me), including some little red bows for the packages. i set them on the top of the pile in the cart so they wouldn't get crushed, but (unexpectedly) where they would blow off into the lane directly in front of a speeding cadillac, with comedic timing worthy of a laverne and shirley episode.
Tuesday, December 14, 2004
Go Read...
I'm offended too, but remember, the ACLU (Anti-Christian Liberty Usurpers) won't help us. (link via Flying Space Monkey)
---
Hugh Hewitt makes many good points in this article - here is one of the best,
---
"Gosh, that's a tough one, Buffalo Bob!"
---
Profane, but still true.
---
Hugh Hewitt makes many good points in this article - here is one of the best,
The January 30 elections are hugely important to the entire region, and when you hear domestic political opponents of George W. Bush urge the delay of the elections or minimize their importance, make a note that you have identified a dangerous fool.
---
"Gosh, that's a tough one, Buffalo Bob!"
---
Profane, but still true.
Monday, December 13, 2004
Desktop Design Update
Free promo H.I.H. desktops should be available by the end of the week, with many thanks to Mish Mash, who has graciously donated hosting space for the images.
Current plans are to have four designs to choose from at first, then add new ones on a regular schedule starting in 2005 (i.e. after the holidays).
Current plans are to have four designs to choose from at first, then add new ones on a regular schedule starting in 2005 (i.e. after the holidays).
Friday, December 10, 2004
WOW!
I've seen it, and I still not sure I believe it - A C130 landing on an aircraft carrier! (link from I Love Jet Noise)
Post-Election Democrat Strategy
The American Spectator has this to say about the Democrats' post-election strategy"
Read the whole thing.
They usually end up saying in one form or another: we need to fool people better. At some level they know that the problem the party faces is not that the American people don't understand their positions but that they understand them too well. So what options are they left with?...
When the Democrats say something is "un-American," they usually mean something very American that they don't want in America anymore. Very reasonable American expectations fortified by history and custom, such as placing crosses and creches in public places, are suddenly declared "un-American" when what the Democrats really mean is un-European. Under this twisted thinking, even America's founding documents are "un-American."
Read the whole thing.
Thursday, December 09, 2004
Desktop Designs
Would you fine folk like some free promo desktop images? I'm considering the possibility of designing and uploading them somewhere. If you do:
1) What size would you prefer - 640x480, 1600x1200, or somewhere in between?
2) Do you have any favorite colors? Least favorite?
3) Where is the best/easiest free place to host images? I have Hello from Picasa for this blog, but don't want to take up space posting directly here.
Please comment.
1) What size would you prefer - 640x480, 1600x1200, or somewhere in between?
2) Do you have any favorite colors? Least favorite?
3) Where is the best/easiest free place to host images? I have Hello from Picasa for this blog, but don't want to take up space posting directly here.
Please comment.
A better take on Alexander
My previous article about Oliver Stone's reinterpretation of Alexander was not serious, but Bruce Thornton at VDH wrote a much better article which examines that movies' specific problems.
Wednesday, December 08, 2004
Salute!
Via Yahoo News, NASA's Longest-Serving Astronaut to Retire.
NASA Administrator Sean O'Keefe said "He's never sought fame and often goes out of his way to avoid the limelight", but he certainly does deserve some, especially in contrast to some of the overexposed hollywood "stars" these days.
John W. Young, 74, announced Tuesday his plans to leave the space agency on Dec. 31. He was the first human to fly in space six times and the only astronaut to pilot four different spacecraft. He flew in the Gemini, Apollo and space shuttle programs.
NASA Administrator Sean O'Keefe said "He's never sought fame and often goes out of his way to avoid the limelight", but he certainly does deserve some, especially in contrast to some of the overexposed hollywood "stars" these days.
Smart Kid
According to Billie Mercer of the Coleman News, Zeke Adams is a very smart young man...
(this news report has been edited for content, to run in the time alloted, and to fit in your screen)
Although it would have been cool to see George Bush pop John Kerry in the nose, the election results are more than satisfactory.
(this news report has been edited for content, to run in the time alloted, and to fit in your screen)
During the presidential debates between President George Bush and John Kerry, Zeke was listening very carefully. He told his mother, “I do not like John Kerry.” His mother just laughed it off, but Zeke proceeded to write a letter to Pres. Bush which said, “Dear Mr. President, We do not like Mr. John Kerry. Will you pop him in the nose? (emphasis mine) We hope you win the election. You are the best president. Mr. John Kerry is not the best. The End!” The letter was sent on Oct. 26.
After the election, Zeke received a letter from the President, dated Nov. 10, which said “Dear Zeke, Thank you for your kind words of support. I am honored to have the responsibility of serving as President of this great country. You also have an important responsibility to become a good citizen. I encourage you to study hard, make the right choices and help others. By setting high standards you can achieve your dreams. Mrs. Bush joins me in sending our best wishes. May God bless you and may God continue to bless America. Sincerely, George Bush.” The letter also included an autographed picture of George and Laura Bush. Zeke wrote a thank-you letter on Nov. 20.
Although it would have been cool to see George Bush pop John Kerry in the nose, the election results are more than satisfactory.
Wizbang Resolution 1441
...shorter than the typical UN resolution, and even less effective, Wizbang has this suggestion for a blogger code of ethics (summarized):
Let me begin by saying that I generally like Wizbang, and harbor no ill will to the writer(s?) personally. I have no problem with the points in and of themselves; I generally try to adhere to them on this blog and in real life. I have no problem with any blogger who CHOOSES to subscribe to that set of rules (or any other) on their own blog. But...
I have a HUGE problem with being FORCED to limit my speech on MY OWN BLOG. At best, that set of rules would only add "blogging correctness" on top of "political correctness". At worst, it would kill the blogosphere as we now know it, and replace it with a new-media elite telling us what to think.
Besides, who would enforce it? The Mafia? The UN? The Ministry of Truth?
In the comments, opine6 says, "Part of the appeal of the blogosphere is the wide open, anything goes, say what you want, aspect of it. The readers can pretty much sort out who is a straight-shooter and who is not."
UPDATE: Here's my newer take on the same subject.
1) A blogger must be honest.
A) Every piece should a sincere expression of how the blogger perceives the facts to be, and all opinions should be heartfelt.
B) A blogger should not put forth themselves as an expert on any given field unless prepared to back up such claims with proof.
C) A blogger should not attempt to "hide" mistakes.
D) A blogger should give credit where credit is due.
2) A blogger must be accurate.
3) A blogger must be interesting.
4) A blogger must always put forth their best efforts.
5) A blogger must be responsible.
Let me begin by saying that I generally like Wizbang, and harbor no ill will to the writer(s?) personally. I have no problem with the points in and of themselves; I generally try to adhere to them on this blog and in real life. I have no problem with any blogger who CHOOSES to subscribe to that set of rules (or any other) on their own blog. But...
I have a HUGE problem with being FORCED to limit my speech on MY OWN BLOG. At best, that set of rules would only add "blogging correctness" on top of "political correctness". At worst, it would kill the blogosphere as we now know it, and replace it with a new-media elite telling us what to think.
Besides, who would enforce it? The Mafia? The UN? The Ministry of Truth?
In the comments, opine6 says, "Part of the appeal of the blogosphere is the wide open, anything goes, say what you want, aspect of it. The readers can pretty much sort out who is a straight-shooter and who is not."
UPDATE: Here's my newer take on the same subject.
Tuesday, December 07, 2004
questions
Frank J. Imao says that "seeing unfrequently asked questions would be more interesting", but does not state what it would be more interesting than. There is quite a range of possibilities, as low as watching rocks erode up to watching Aquaman beat Mikey Moore in a lightsaber fight. Nevertheless, a list of "unfrequently asked questions" does give me some ideas...
(Since the question "Why did Frank use the silly made-up word, 'unfrequently', instead of the correct word, 'infrequently'?" is likely to be asked frequently, I will not include it in my list.)
Feel free to add your own questions in the comments...
(Since the question "Why did Frank use the silly made-up word, 'unfrequently', instead of the correct word, 'infrequently'?" is likely to be asked frequently, I will not include it in my list.)
- Does paper spoil when it is not refrigerated?
- Should I make these fifty scorpions stop biting me?
- Can you please charge me more for that?
- Would you like to try our value meal, Mr. Kerry?
- Will I notice it if I stop breathing?
- When will the trombones swim to Schenectady?
- Do these documents look fake to you, Ms. Mapes?
- What is the difference between a lunar eclipse and a Peruvian spotted mountain gecko?
- Do you have racing slicks for a Yugo in stock?
- Will Roseanne be singing the National Anthem at tonight's game?
- What's that bright thing rising in the east?
- Is 'Alexander' sold out again?
- Does spaghetti purr when you pet it?
- How do you spell "a"?
Feel free to add your own questions in the comments...
weather report
Our weatherman just reported that we would not have any rain for the rest of the week because the last storm front "removed all of the moisture from the Gulf of Mexico".
That is quite remarkable! Now Houston and New Orleans are a few hundred miles inland of a new, as yet unnamed desert. I am surprised that such an environmental catastrophe was not mentioned in the rest of the newscast.
That is quite remarkable! Now Houston and New Orleans are a few hundred miles inland of a new, as yet unnamed desert. I am surprised that such an environmental catastrophe was not mentioned in the rest of the newscast.
Monday, December 06, 2004
massively unscientific poll
I have been thinking about the amount of additions/updates to do to my blogroll. I assume most people who read blogs know who the major bloggers are, and have them bookmarked or can find them easily. Therefore, I try to keep my list relatively small and quality-checked, rather than a huge list of any sites I ever found remotely interesting. I like to think of it as a neghborhood map rather than a country map. (Besides, I don't know how to code those auto-updating blogrolls like the one at Scrappleface.)
So here is my question: Should I keep my link list smaller, or drastically expand it? Please comment.
So here is my question: Should I keep my link list smaller, or drastically expand it? Please comment.
Firefox Fixed It!
at least for now, my wacky slow computer seems to not be plagued with the data-mining spyware that glommed onto m$ internet exploder. perhaps having a functional browser will inspire me to post more often? stay tuned...
Duuuuude...
Lately, I've been having dejavu from the future. Like, I'll be in the middle of something, and all of a sudden I realize - hey - I've never done this before!
Like Keanu says in all his movies, "whoa!"
;^)>
Like Keanu says in all his movies, "whoa!"
;^)>
Friday, December 03, 2004
doorknob ankle cold
This is stoooooopid funny. If you let it, the song will keep playing over and over and over and over and llama and over and over and duck and over...
Thursday, December 02, 2004
Even better than usual
Scrappleface's Scott Ott outdoes himself with "CBS Mulls Reality TV Newscast"
- What if the news itself were the star of the show, rather than the newscasters?
- What if the length of the newscast were determined daily by the volume and significance of the news?
- What if we reported on the important stuff even if we didn't have any b-roll video to illustrate it?
- What if reporters spent the first 20 seconds of every story admitting their preconceived ideas, biases and opinions on the subject?
- What if we didn't care about who wins the ratings war, but only about the accuracy, fairness and relevance of our reporting?
Tuesday, November 30, 2004
ssslllooowww
was the blogosphere this slow last year between the holidays? or is it just a post-election slowdown?
anyway, go see the incredibles movie. it's funny, clean, and has a good story line.
anyway, go see the incredibles movie. it's funny, clean, and has a good story line.
Friday, November 26, 2004
"Question Authority"
The tired old saying "Don't trust anyone over thirty" finally makes sense, in context of this silly list, which is proof positive that rolling stones can, in fact, gather moss.
"Imagine there's no Beatles. Now we're halfway there.
No music they had written, Just the boomers care.
Imagine there's no Yoko, screeching like a goose. woo-hoo-oo-ooo..."
"Imagine there's no Beatles. Now we're halfway there.
No music they had written, Just the boomers care.
Imagine there's no Yoko, screeching like a goose. woo-hoo-oo-ooo..."
Wednesday, November 24, 2004
Thanks Giving
Psalm 107, KJV
1 O give thanks unto the LORD, for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever.
2 Let the redeemed of the LORD say so, whom he hath redeemed from the hand of the enemy;
3 And gathered them out of the lands, from the east, and from the west, from the north, and from the south.
4 They wandered in the wilderness in a solitary way; they found no city to dwell in.
5 Hungry and thirsty, their soul fainted in them.
6 Then they cried unto the LORD in their trouble, and he delivered them out of their distresses.
7 And he led them forth by the right way, that they might go to a city of habitation.
8 Oh that men would praise the LORD for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!
9 For he satisfieth the longing soul, and filleth the hungry soul with goodness.
10 Such as sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, being bound in affliction and iron;
11 Because they rebelled against the words of God, and contemned the counsel of the most High:
12 Therefore he brought down their heart with labour; they fell down, and there was none to help.
13 Then they cried unto the LORD in their trouble, and he saved them out of their distresses.
14 He brought them out of darkness and the shadow of death, and brake their bands in sunder.
15 Oh that men would praise the LORD for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!
16 For he hath broken the gates of brass, and cut the bars of iron in sunder.
17 Fools because of their transgression, and because of their iniquities, are afflicted.
18 Their soul abhorreth all manner of meat; and they draw near unto the gates of death.
19 Then they cry unto the LORD in their trouble, and he saveth them out of their distresses.
20 He sent his word, and healed them, and delivered them from their destructions.
21 Oh that men would praise the LORD for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!
22 And let them sacrifice the sacrifices of thanksgiving, and declare his works with rejoicing.
23 They that go down to the sea in ships, that do business in great waters;
24 These see the works of the LORD, and his wonders in the deep.
25 For he commandeth, and raiseth the stormy wind, which lifteth up the waves thereof.
26 They mount up to the heaven, they go down again to the depths: their soul is melted because of trouble.
27 They reel to and fro, and stagger like a drunken man, and are at their wit's end.
28 Then they cry unto the LORD in their trouble, and he bringeth them out of their distresses.
29 He maketh the storm a calm, so that the waves thereof are still.
30 Then are they glad because they be quiet; so he bringeth them unto their desired haven.
31 Oh that men would praise the LORD for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!
32 Let them exalt him also in the congregation of the people, and praise him in the assembly of the elders.
33 He turneth rivers into a wilderness, and the watersprings into dry ground;
34 A fruitful land into barrenness, for the wickedness of them that dwell therein.
35 He turneth the wilderness into a standing water, and dry ground into watersprings.
36 And there he maketh the hungry to dwell, that they may prepare a city for habitation;
37 And sow the fields, and plant vineyards, which may yield fruits of increase.
38 He blesseth them also, so that they are multiplied greatly; and suffereth not their cattle to decrease.
39 Again, they are minished and brought low through oppression, affliction, and sorrow.
40 He poureth contempt upon princes, and causeth them to wander in the wilderness, where there is no way.
41 Yet setteth he the poor on high from affliction, and maketh him families like a flock.
42 The righteous shall see it, and rejoice: and all iniquity shall stop her mouth.
43 Whoso is wise, and will observe these things, even they shall understand the lovingkindness of the LORD.
1 O give thanks unto the LORD, for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever.
2 Let the redeemed of the LORD say so, whom he hath redeemed from the hand of the enemy;
3 And gathered them out of the lands, from the east, and from the west, from the north, and from the south.
4 They wandered in the wilderness in a solitary way; they found no city to dwell in.
5 Hungry and thirsty, their soul fainted in them.
6 Then they cried unto the LORD in their trouble, and he delivered them out of their distresses.
7 And he led them forth by the right way, that they might go to a city of habitation.
8 Oh that men would praise the LORD for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!
9 For he satisfieth the longing soul, and filleth the hungry soul with goodness.
10 Such as sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, being bound in affliction and iron;
11 Because they rebelled against the words of God, and contemned the counsel of the most High:
12 Therefore he brought down their heart with labour; they fell down, and there was none to help.
13 Then they cried unto the LORD in their trouble, and he saved them out of their distresses.
14 He brought them out of darkness and the shadow of death, and brake their bands in sunder.
15 Oh that men would praise the LORD for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!
16 For he hath broken the gates of brass, and cut the bars of iron in sunder.
17 Fools because of their transgression, and because of their iniquities, are afflicted.
18 Their soul abhorreth all manner of meat; and they draw near unto the gates of death.
19 Then they cry unto the LORD in their trouble, and he saveth them out of their distresses.
20 He sent his word, and healed them, and delivered them from their destructions.
21 Oh that men would praise the LORD for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!
22 And let them sacrifice the sacrifices of thanksgiving, and declare his works with rejoicing.
23 They that go down to the sea in ships, that do business in great waters;
24 These see the works of the LORD, and his wonders in the deep.
25 For he commandeth, and raiseth the stormy wind, which lifteth up the waves thereof.
26 They mount up to the heaven, they go down again to the depths: their soul is melted because of trouble.
27 They reel to and fro, and stagger like a drunken man, and are at their wit's end.
28 Then they cry unto the LORD in their trouble, and he bringeth them out of their distresses.
29 He maketh the storm a calm, so that the waves thereof are still.
30 Then are they glad because they be quiet; so he bringeth them unto their desired haven.
31 Oh that men would praise the LORD for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!
32 Let them exalt him also in the congregation of the people, and praise him in the assembly of the elders.
33 He turneth rivers into a wilderness, and the watersprings into dry ground;
34 A fruitful land into barrenness, for the wickedness of them that dwell therein.
35 He turneth the wilderness into a standing water, and dry ground into watersprings.
36 And there he maketh the hungry to dwell, that they may prepare a city for habitation;
37 And sow the fields, and plant vineyards, which may yield fruits of increase.
38 He blesseth them also, so that they are multiplied greatly; and suffereth not their cattle to decrease.
39 Again, they are minished and brought low through oppression, affliction, and sorrow.
40 He poureth contempt upon princes, and causeth them to wander in the wilderness, where there is no way.
41 Yet setteth he the poor on high from affliction, and maketh him families like a flock.
42 The righteous shall see it, and rejoice: and all iniquity shall stop her mouth.
43 Whoso is wise, and will observe these things, even they shall understand the lovingkindness of the LORD.
Lileks on ACLU vs BSA
Lileks' column at Newhouse News Service has this to say about the ACLU picking fights with the Boys Scouts:
(ed. update: i added the link in the middle)
And we're talking about the BOY SCOUTS, for heaven's sake, not some Junior Klan League noted for torchlight parades through Jewish neighborhoods. Who has the time to worry whether the scouts are meeting in the local library? Isn't there some real, actual evil handy you could sue? Better yet: If you don't like the scouts' oath or rules, how about you drink a nice hot cup of LIVE AND LET LIVE and start your own group?
(ed. update: i added the link in the middle)
Tuesday, November 23, 2004
Fallujah coverage
In case you missed the story on the evening news... go read this article (and this linked one) about the victory in Fallujah. The best quote:
The resistance has suffered a loss of more than 2,000 combatants, out of a total force estimated by U.S. Central Command at about 5,000 (other estimates are higher) as well as its only secure base in the country. But both the Arab media and ours emphasize that the attack on Fallujah has made a lot of Arabs mad. By this logic, once we've killed all the terrorists, they'll be invincible.
Friday, November 19, 2004
Go read...
UPDATE: This is a must-read, as usual for VDH.
"Intellectual elitists see red all over" by Richard Kirk, who coins the term "Starbuckeroos".
"If they’re so eager to flee to Canada, by all means, let’s help them."
"Intellectual elitists see red all over" by Richard Kirk, who coins the term "Starbuckeroos".
"If they’re so eager to flee to Canada, by all means, let’s help them."
Thursday, November 18, 2004
repost: Oliver Stone's "Alexander"
(A slightly edited repost of this from last June, when I first heard that the movie was in production.)
Oliver Stone is making a movie about Alexander the Great. Given the "factual accuracy" of his previous movies, here are some enhancements Mr. Stone may be considering:
Oliver Stone is making a movie about Alexander the Great. Given the "factual accuracy" of his previous movies, here are some enhancements Mr. Stone may be considering:
- A bungled break-in at the Library of Alexandria, resulting in an eighteen minute gap in several parchments.
- A detailed explanation of the "Magic Phalanx Theory".
- Drugged-out Alexander collapses in battle while yelling "I am the Lizard King!".
- Quote: "It's a mystery wrapped in a riddle inside an enigma wrapped in a pita bread with some feta cheese!"
- Odd flashback sequences in the style of "Father Knows Best".
- Bucephalas is the name of Alexander's black Huey helicopter.
- Discovery that his father Philip was actually assassinated by Jack Ruby (who was working for the Persian Mafia).
- Working title: "Born in the Summer of 356 BC".
Wednesday, November 17, 2004
sympathy for the green bean
This article was so bizarre, it required little editing to produce a 'Scrapplefaced' version:
---
Vegetable-rights activists have launched a novel campaign arguing that vegetables -- contrary to stereotype -- are intelligent, sensitive entities no more deserving of being eaten than fish. Called the 'Think Vegetatively' Project, the campaign reflects a strategy shift by People for the Ethical Treatment of Vegetables as it challenges a diet component widely viewed as nutritious and uncontroversial.
"No one would ever pull a fish out of the ground and eat it." said PETV's Fred Fennel. "Once people start to understand that vegetables are just as intelligent as we are, they'll stop eating them."
The grass roots campaign is still in the germination stage and will face broad skepticism. Major groups such as the American Heart Association recommend vegetables as part of a healthy diet; some academics say it is wrong to portray the intelligence and pain sensitivity of vegetables as comparable to fish. "Vegetables are very complex organisms that do all sorts of amazing things," said University of Seattle scientist Rose Jimson. "But to suggest they know they what's happening to them and worry about it, that's just not the case."
PETV, headquartered in Greenleaf, CA., has campaigned for years against gardening, challenging claims by Jimson and others that harvested vegetables do not feel pain. PETV also has joined other critics in decrying the high levels of manure the vegetables are subjected to on farms.
The 'Think Vegetatively' Project is a departure in two respects -- attempting to depict the standard practices of commercial farming as cruel and seeking to convince consumers that there are ethical reasons for not eating vegetables. The project was inspired by several recent scientific studies, which discovered that certain vegetables' intelligence actually exceeded that of the researchers.
"Vegetables are so misunderstood because they grow in such foreign lands, like Nebraska," said Robin Carrotson. "They're such interesting, fascinating individuals, yet they're so incredibly abused."
"Most people dismiss vegetables as dimwits... Yet this is a great fallacy," wrote University of Edinburgh biologist Kale Green. "In many areas, such as memory, their cognitive powers match or exceed those of 'higher' vertebrates, including activists and protestors."
"There's no doubt that vegetables of all shapes and forms are capable of learning fairly complex tasks," Green said. "They can learn from their environment and experience." Oxford University researcher Rudy Baga de Treesa, for example, reported that the Chilean cave beet is able to draw detailed mental maps of its surroundings in Photoshop and post them on the internet.
To press their argument, PETV activists plan demonstrations starting next month at selected vegan restaurants nationwide. PETV also will urge changes in commercial farming practices, for example proposing that tractor drivers perform show tunes for the vegetables before uprooting them.
National Farm Institute president John Redcorn says "It's irresponsible to discourage people from eating vegetables at a time when doctors and dietitians advise eating them twice a day. If anything, we should be eating more vegetables."
Fennel questioned why there is popular support for sparing the cute vegetables -- such as tomatoes and celery -- yet minimal concern for species like artichokes, "whose suffering should warrant felony vegetable cruelty charges."
He also acknowledges the difficulty of changing long-held customs, but thinks his project is worthwhile. "We'd rather go too far than not far enough," he said.
Her voice quivering with emotion, Robin Carrotson exclaimed, "Won't someone PLEASE think of the cabbage!"
---
See also: Carrot Juice Is Murder
---
Vegetable-rights activists have launched a novel campaign arguing that vegetables -- contrary to stereotype -- are intelligent, sensitive entities no more deserving of being eaten than fish. Called the 'Think Vegetatively' Project, the campaign reflects a strategy shift by People for the Ethical Treatment of Vegetables as it challenges a diet component widely viewed as nutritious and uncontroversial.
"No one would ever pull a fish out of the ground and eat it." said PETV's Fred Fennel. "Once people start to understand that vegetables are just as intelligent as we are, they'll stop eating them."
The grass roots campaign is still in the germination stage and will face broad skepticism. Major groups such as the American Heart Association recommend vegetables as part of a healthy diet; some academics say it is wrong to portray the intelligence and pain sensitivity of vegetables as comparable to fish. "Vegetables are very complex organisms that do all sorts of amazing things," said University of Seattle scientist Rose Jimson. "But to suggest they know they what's happening to them and worry about it, that's just not the case."
PETV, headquartered in Greenleaf, CA., has campaigned for years against gardening, challenging claims by Jimson and others that harvested vegetables do not feel pain. PETV also has joined other critics in decrying the high levels of manure the vegetables are subjected to on farms.
The 'Think Vegetatively' Project is a departure in two respects -- attempting to depict the standard practices of commercial farming as cruel and seeking to convince consumers that there are ethical reasons for not eating vegetables. The project was inspired by several recent scientific studies, which discovered that certain vegetables' intelligence actually exceeded that of the researchers.
"Vegetables are so misunderstood because they grow in such foreign lands, like Nebraska," said Robin Carrotson. "They're such interesting, fascinating individuals, yet they're so incredibly abused."
"Most people dismiss vegetables as dimwits... Yet this is a great fallacy," wrote University of Edinburgh biologist Kale Green. "In many areas, such as memory, their cognitive powers match or exceed those of 'higher' vertebrates, including activists and protestors."
"There's no doubt that vegetables of all shapes and forms are capable of learning fairly complex tasks," Green said. "They can learn from their environment and experience." Oxford University researcher Rudy Baga de Treesa, for example, reported that the Chilean cave beet is able to draw detailed mental maps of its surroundings in Photoshop and post them on the internet.
To press their argument, PETV activists plan demonstrations starting next month at selected vegan restaurants nationwide. PETV also will urge changes in commercial farming practices, for example proposing that tractor drivers perform show tunes for the vegetables before uprooting them.
National Farm Institute president John Redcorn says "It's irresponsible to discourage people from eating vegetables at a time when doctors and dietitians advise eating them twice a day. If anything, we should be eating more vegetables."
Fennel questioned why there is popular support for sparing the cute vegetables -- such as tomatoes and celery -- yet minimal concern for species like artichokes, "whose suffering should warrant felony vegetable cruelty charges."
He also acknowledges the difficulty of changing long-held customs, but thinks his project is worthwhile. "We'd rather go too far than not far enough," he said.
Her voice quivering with emotion, Robin Carrotson exclaimed, "Won't someone PLEASE think of the cabbage!"
---
See also: Carrot Juice Is Murder
Aucum sang pour le chocolat!
CHIRAC LIED!!! IVORIANS DIED!!! NO BLOOD FOR CHOCOLATE!!!
Someone needs to investigate these war crimes.
p.s. Hopefully this headline will be the only time Phrench appears here...
Someone needs to investigate these war crimes.
Some evacuees echoed the Ivory Coast government's complaints of excessive force. An American restaurant worker and other witnesses said French helicopters fired on demonstrators in the commercial capital, Abidjan.
''Man, we heard of a lot of Ivorian friends dying,'' the worker said, speaking on condition of anonymity.
Hospital officials and the AP confirmed 27 deaths and 1,000 injured in the past week.
p.s. Hopefully this headline will be the only time Phrench appears here...
Tuesday, November 16, 2004
cool random stuff
I have no idea what Fljúgandi....ehhh....sláttuvél? means, but you must go see it!!
Periodic table, really.
A pipe organ that plays in just intonation, controlled by telephone relays.
Some even stranger instruments.
Periodic table, really.
A pipe organ that plays in just intonation, controlled by telephone relays.
Some even stranger instruments.
Monday, November 15, 2004
Go read...
One of the memes bouncing around Democratic circles these days is that Blue States are now paying taxes to a federal government under the complete control of the Red States. Now they know how the Red States felt from about 1952-1994...
All kinds of Good News from Afganistan
Open Letter to Europe
Rightwingsparkle is in a mood...
All kinds of Good News from Afganistan
Open Letter to Europe
Rightwingsparkle is in a mood...
Sunday, November 14, 2004
I Was a Teenage TV Addict!
The addiction started much before my teenage years though...
I was a TV addict. Sure, there were worse cases out there, but I was definitely hooked. For as long as I remember, I preferred to have the TV on, even if only for background noise.
Pink Panther and Bugs Bunny/Road Runner cartoons. Price is Right. Match Game 7x. Diff'rent Strokes. MASH. WKRP in Cincinnati. National Geographic specials. Charlie Brown & Grinch & Willy Wonka & Wizard of Oz specials. Odd Couple. A-Team. Dukes of Hazzard. Miami Vice. MTV (back when they actually played music videos). Twin Peaks. Star Trek NG. The Simpsons. ER. And many many others...
(After watching waaay too many ER reruns, I had a funny dream about it once).
About 6 or 7 years ago, it became clear to me how much time I was wasting in front of the tube. One major symptom was a loss of interest in my creative pursuits. I used to draw and paint, make models from kits and from scratch, record music and build experimental instruments. But increasingly, my time outside of work and sleep was spent 'vegetating in cathode radiation'.
That should have been enough to make me quit, but it wasn't.
A couple of years later, the suggestive content (which had been there for quite a while) began to bother me. It was spreading everywhere, but my main example was the Drew Carey show. The first season was funny - with the 'Moon Over Parma' theme song - but after that, most of the jokes really became genitalia-centric. That 70's Show was similar. Ads for Viagra, condoms, and 'feminine products' became commonplace, too.
That should have been enough to make me quit too. It wasn't, but I did cut back a little.
That overlapped with my 2 times of unemployment, when I was sort of O.D.ing on TV. My conscience (or Someone else) started saying "This is filth. Why are you polluting your mind with it?"
(Actually, the first time I heard those words clearly was after watching the movie "Fight Club". Although an interesting movie, it made me want to shower twice after seeing it.)
The nails in the coffin of my addiction came during the year prior to this election, with the media loudly proclaiming its utter contempt for American values - except for freedom of speech (which they grant only to themselves).
They have cured this addict. I hope they have cured many many more.
---
update 4/05: here are two different reactions to tv.
I was a TV addict. Sure, there were worse cases out there, but I was definitely hooked. For as long as I remember, I preferred to have the TV on, even if only for background noise.
Pink Panther and Bugs Bunny/Road Runner cartoons. Price is Right. Match Game 7x. Diff'rent Strokes. MASH. WKRP in Cincinnati. National Geographic specials. Charlie Brown & Grinch & Willy Wonka & Wizard of Oz specials. Odd Couple. A-Team. Dukes of Hazzard. Miami Vice. MTV (back when they actually played music videos). Twin Peaks. Star Trek NG. The Simpsons. ER. And many many others...
(After watching waaay too many ER reruns, I had a funny dream about it once).
About 6 or 7 years ago, it became clear to me how much time I was wasting in front of the tube. One major symptom was a loss of interest in my creative pursuits. I used to draw and paint, make models from kits and from scratch, record music and build experimental instruments. But increasingly, my time outside of work and sleep was spent 'vegetating in cathode radiation'.
That should have been enough to make me quit, but it wasn't.
A couple of years later, the suggestive content (which had been there for quite a while) began to bother me. It was spreading everywhere, but my main example was the Drew Carey show. The first season was funny - with the 'Moon Over Parma' theme song - but after that, most of the jokes really became genitalia-centric. That 70's Show was similar. Ads for Viagra, condoms, and 'feminine products' became commonplace, too.
That should have been enough to make me quit too. It wasn't, but I did cut back a little.
That overlapped with my 2 times of unemployment, when I was sort of O.D.ing on TV. My conscience (or Someone else) started saying "This is filth. Why are you polluting your mind with it?"
(Actually, the first time I heard those words clearly was after watching the movie "Fight Club". Although an interesting movie, it made me want to shower twice after seeing it.)
The nails in the coffin of my addiction came during the year prior to this election, with the media loudly proclaiming its utter contempt for American values - except for freedom of speech (which they grant only to themselves).
"Have you no sense of decency, sir, at long last? Have you left no sense of decency?... You have seen fit to bring it out, and if there is a God in heaven, it will do neither you nor your cause any good."
They have cured this addict. I hope they have cured many many more.
---
update 4/05: here are two different reactions to tv.
Saturday, November 13, 2004
Friday, November 12, 2004
MSM again
Cassandra at I Love Jet Noise wrote:
RTWT
In the wake of RatherGate, NYTroGate, and the exit poll brouhaha, there have been a slew of articles and online editorials in the mainstream media opining that bloggers are irresponsible, unprofessional, and not to be trusted.
Coming from a group of ostensible "professionals" who openly stumped for one candidate in this election to the extent of suppressing entire news stories and manufacturing others out of whole cloth, this attitude is stunning in its arrogance...
RTWT
heeheehee...
Flying Space Monkey said: "ABC is a Disney subsidiary and a fully licensed Mickey Mouse outfit."
Tesla Towers
If you happen to know who Nikola Tesla is, or even just what a Tesla Coil is, you might be impressed/intrigued by these:
Wardenclyffe Tower
Teleforce
I found these links a couple of weeks ago. Have any of you heard about these before?
Wardenclyffe Tower
Teleforce
I found these links a couple of weeks ago. Have any of you heard about these before?
Thursday, November 11, 2004
Wednesday, November 10, 2004
Headline
This Yahoo News item is titled "7 Said Killed in Ivory Coast Violence". Who would have thought there could be so much hostility between two brands of soap?
;)
;)
Tuesday, November 09, 2004
Purple America
Here is a more fair and accurate map of voting patterns by county. Even when I posted this, I knew the old red-vs-blue map was an oversimplification, and wondered if there was a more accurate, 'nuanced' (lurch groan), version.
I found the link to the purple map at LaShawn Barber's blog, which also includes this good quote:
UPDATE: Here are some more versions. They look odd at first - read the explanations.
I found the link to the purple map at LaShawn Barber's blog, which also includes this good quote:
My advice to liberals: Stand tall and be men and women of conviction, if you believe you’re right. I think you’re wrong, but you have the freedom to express your viewpoint. You do not have the freedom to impose your will on me, though.
While you’re refining, repackaging and analyzing your message, consider this: truth is truth and decency is decency. If your “product” doesn’t contain both of these elements, your next advertising campaign won’t appeal to us, either.
UPDATE: Here are some more versions. They look odd at first - read the explanations.
Monday, November 08, 2004
Go read...
Ballou's News has some funny stuff - like "Kerry Campaign Sued by Descendents of Ghengis Khan".
Go read...
"American Exceptionalism" by Victor Davis Hanson. Key quotes:
Despite losing the majority of state legislatures and governorships, the U.S. Congress, the presidency, and soon the Supreme Court, our anointed elite still doesn't quite get it...
The Internet, right-wing radio, and cable news do not so much move Middle America as reflect its preexisting deep skepticism of our aristocracy and its engineered morality imposed from on high...
George Bush — through the beheadings, the kidnappings, Abu Ghraib, the hysteria of a Richard Clark, Joe Wilson, Anonymous, Rathergate, the 9/11 Commission, CIA rogue analysts, cheap European slurs, insane remarks from Walter Cronkite to Bill Moyers, and last-minute media fabricated "scandals" — has never faltered, so confident was he in the exceptionalism of America and the unshakeable resolve and competence of the U.S. military.
Most of the American people, of course, agreed all along.
Thursday, November 04, 2004
Red State Blue State
Many of you have seen the red county vs. blue county voting map. Patterns have emerged, but there has not yet been any explanation of *why* those particular small areas of the country typically "vote blue" - until now. Amazingly, it seems that voting patterns may be influenced by particular geographic properties! Here are some examples:
Any other isolated blue areas are simply inexplicable.
While an investigation into this phenomenon continues, the search for a cure needs your support.
- The blue areas along the Mississippi river, and other rivers and coastlines are "all wet".
- The blue areas located in the mountains are "high as a kite".
- The blue metropolitan regions are "particularly dense".
Any other isolated blue areas are simply inexplicable.
While an investigation into this phenomenon continues, the search for a cure needs your support.
another slowdown
my blograte had increased because i thought my computer was ok, but it's acting up again so i probably won't be posting as much for a little while.
spyware stinks.
spyware stinks.
Wednesday, November 03, 2004
Thanksgiving starts early this year
Everybody who was praying for President Bush to win, or for Kerry to lose, or even for an non-legal-wrangling-prolonged election process, should take some time today to thank God for his mercy and grace. Pray that those who opposed Bush's reelection respect the electoral process. Pray continued protection and wisdom for the President in his second term. And continue to pray for victory in the war against terror.
Monday, November 01, 2004
last blog-dream bit
In addition to the three blog-related dreams already posted, there is one other blog-related fragment that has occured a couple of times...
Many of my dreams include lots of driving. Although it feels like there is a reason for the travel, the resulting path usually meanders aimlessly across a city (or even several states).
Anyway, 3 or 4 times now, those dream travels have brought me to Minneapolis. Having never actually seen the place, the scenery never looks the same twice - once it even resembled the adobe style of Santa Fe NM. Each time, I find out that James Lileks is signing copies of his books at a bookstore in a mall somewhere downtown. Each time, I hear about this just as I arrive in town, and for various reasons can never get there in time - either I can't find the mall, or it closes just before I arrive, or the car has trouble.
---
Okay, that's all the blogdreams for now. I'll post if there are others, but I don't think I could top this one by A Little Aardvark. Has anybody else had any blog-related dreams?
Many of my dreams include lots of driving. Although it feels like there is a reason for the travel, the resulting path usually meanders aimlessly across a city (or even several states).
Anyway, 3 or 4 times now, those dream travels have brought me to Minneapolis. Having never actually seen the place, the scenery never looks the same twice - once it even resembled the adobe style of Santa Fe NM. Each time, I find out that James Lileks is signing copies of his books at a bookstore in a mall somewhere downtown. Each time, I hear about this just as I arrive in town, and for various reasons can never get there in time - either I can't find the mall, or it closes just before I arrive, or the car has trouble.
---
Okay, that's all the blogdreams for now. I'll post if there are others, but I don't think I could top this one by A Little Aardvark. Has anybody else had any blog-related dreams?
Go See...
Some conservative punk posted this cartoon about F9/11.
Cold Fury has this article about the war on terror, including these words against the hateful left:
Cold Fury has this article about the war on terror, including these words against the hateful left:
THERE ARE NO LEGITIMATE GRIEVANCES that justify flying planes into a building, strapping bombs to women and children and sending them into pizza parlors and nightclubs, throwing a wheelchair-bound senior citizen over the side of a cruise ship, and the like. NONE...
Align yourself with the way of thinking that says that this horridly medieval and anti-humanist philosophy is one to be understood and ultimately tolerated if you like. Put yourself on the same side as those who behead truck drivers and aid workers helping to rebuild Iraq, burn their bodies, and drag them through the streets. Myself, I’ll stand on the side of liberty, civilization, and progress rather than religious oppression and fascist murder.
Excellent News From Iran
Iranian government officials admit Christianity ‘out of control.’
The article deals with the case of Hamid Pourmand, 47, a lay pastor in the Assemblies of God Church, who was arrested along with 85 other evangelical church leaders. Then the last section gives us this broader picture:
Romans 12:17-21 "Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: "It is mine to avenge; I will repay," says the Lord. On the contrary: If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head." Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
The article deals with the case of Hamid Pourmand, 47, a lay pastor in the Assemblies of God Church, who was arrested along with 85 other evangelical church leaders. Then the last section gives us this broader picture:
Over the past year, prominent government leaders have publicly denounced Christianity, Sufism and Zoroastrianism as threats to Iran’s national security.
Under Iran’s Islamist regime, several ex-Muslims who converted to Christianity have been either assassinated or executed by court order, under the guise of accusations of spying for foreign countries.
Apostasy is listed along with murder, armed robbery, rape and serious drug trafficking as a capital offense in Iran.
...Shiite cleric Hasan Mohammadi from the Ministry of Education declared, “Unfortunately, on average every day, 50 Iranian girls and boys convert secretly to Christian denominations in our country.”
After the speech... the father of one student in the audience told IPS that Mohammadi had “unknowingly admitted the defeat of the Islamic Republic of Iran as a theocratic regime in promoting its Islam.”
According to one Iranian Christian who spoke with Compass last week, “Neither the government nor the established churches can control what is happening spiritually across Iran right now.”
“We are hearing estimates that 60 percent of the Iranian people have now heard the message of Christ, even out in the villages,” the source said. Although many of the new Christians are young people, reports indicate entire families have come to faith in Christ and started worshipping in the privacy of their own homes.
“So really, the government can’t do anything to stop the growth of Christianity in Iran,” he said. “It’s out of control.”
Romans 12:17-21 "Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: "It is mine to avenge; I will repay," says the Lord. On the contrary: If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head." Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
Sunday, October 31, 2004
Kerry's Legacy
The subtitle to this editorial in the Richmond Times-Dispatch, written by a former POW, reads "No One Who Has Aided the Enemy Deserves to Become President". It concludes with this:
Kerry's legacy isn't that he has the same initials as John Fitzgerald Kennedy or that he motored around the rivers of South Vietnam in a small boat for four months before asking to leave the war early. His legacy is more along the lines of Benedict Arnold's. The only difference is that Benedict Arnold was a successful soldier before he committed treason. I doubt Benedict Arnold would have much success running for President today. Are we to believe that someone who aided the enemy in time of war is worthy of becoming President? I don't think so, and neither do many people I know. We have a war to fight. It's going to take a long time. Kerry is not the one to take us through it.
Saturday, October 30, 2004
Kerry summary
Captains Quarters summarizes this year's DNC candidate, concluding with this:
Kerry has been one of the most incompetent major-party candidates in decades, perhaps ever. People point to George McGovern, Walter Mondale, and Kerry's former boss Michael Dukakis as similar or potentially worse candidates, but all three of those men stood for their beliefs and values. Kerry stands for himself and nothing else. The only thing keeping Kerry afloat is the high tide of Bush hatred among the Left and an increasingly desperate mainstream media that will do almost anything, including sacrificing their credibility, to keep Bush from being re-elected.
Friday, October 29, 2004
Weird convergence
The 'referring webpage' feature on the right produces odd results sometimes. Today there was a link to Some Dude's Only Refuge. That link appeared directly under a link to Rightwing Duck (who had just had a contest where I got an honorable mention).
So I check out the Refuge - it's just a personal blog of somebody in Sioux City, who happens to like a few movies that I don't. No telling why it linked to my page. But the top article on that page was titled "Ducks and Gutbusters".
Also, the next post on the Refuge showed a graphic of "Grand Thef Auto: San Andreas". I processed that logo this morning at work, but had never seen it before then.
Earlier today, I had also had two other dejavus, and that's been rare for me lately.
(Okay, maybe convergence isn't the right term, but it was weird. Maybe I'm just sleepy - stupid graveyard shift sleep deprivation...)
From The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: "Probability factor approaching one to one. We will be restoring normality as soon as we are sure what is normal anyway."
So I check out the Refuge - it's just a personal blog of somebody in Sioux City, who happens to like a few movies that I don't. No telling why it linked to my page. But the top article on that page was titled "Ducks and Gutbusters".
Also, the next post on the Refuge showed a graphic of "Grand Thef Auto: San Andreas". I processed that logo this morning at work, but had never seen it before then.
Earlier today, I had also had two other dejavus, and that's been rare for me lately.
(Okay, maybe convergence isn't the right term, but it was weird. Maybe I'm just sleepy - stupid graveyard shift sleep deprivation...)
From The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: "Probability factor approaching one to one. We will be restoring normality as soon as we are sure what is normal anyway."
Political Expression
I assume by now you've heard the story about Barry M. Seltzer. "Charged with assault for allegedly aiming his car at Rep. Katherine Harris and supporters", he claimed that it was not a crime since he was "exercising political expression". By that logic, some other crimes might also have to be reclassified as "political expression", like:
Seltzer better not get away with it...
- Boothe's "political expression" against Lincoln
- Harris and Klebold's "political expressions" at Columbine
- Three thugs' "political expression" against James Byrd Jr
- Terrorists' 9/11 "political expression"
- The "political expression" against the Jews during Kristallnacht
Seltzer better not get away with it...
Fw: different terminology
today's forwarded humor
---
People in New England and Texas have different words for certain things. Here are some examples:
New England 'February' = Texas 'winter'
New England 'cooling trend' = Texas 'blizzard'
New England 'summer' = Texas 'August'
New England 'heat wave' = Texas 'slightly below average'
New England 'route' = Texas 'highway'
New England 'journey' = Texas 'commute'
New England 'township' = Texas 'subdivision'
New England 'state' = Texas 'county'
---
:)
---
People in New England and Texas have different words for certain things. Here are some examples:
New England 'February' = Texas 'winter'
New England 'cooling trend' = Texas 'blizzard'
New England 'summer' = Texas 'August'
New England 'heat wave' = Texas 'slightly below average'
New England 'route' = Texas 'highway'
New England 'journey' = Texas 'commute'
New England 'township' = Texas 'subdivision'
New England 'state' = Texas 'county'
---
:)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)