Cake Eater Chronicles

You have the right website.

You have the right website. There aren't any laptop gnomes in the house
who snuck in under cover of darkness and switched all your bookmarks
around.
This is the new Cake Eater Chronicles. Everything's fine. Do not adjust
your set.
For the rest of you, well, I hope you like it. I do. I find it much
easier on the eyes. A few things, though.
1. Comments policy can be found here.

Ignore it at your peril.

(Side note, I'm SO digging this permalink business. Woohoo!)

2. While we're on the subject of comments, it seems Blogger wants you to log in if you leave one. Which we all know is so
conducive to cooperation. (I wouldn't log in to leave a comment---are
you kidding? Way too much work.) But it does give you the handy-dandy
option of posting anonymously! (Note to the Blogger People: WOW! Way to
invite the trolls in, kids!) If you choose the option to post
anonymously to save yourself the time and hassle of logging in, that's
fine with me...AS LONG AS YOU LEAVE A HANDLE IN THE TEXT SECTION.
That's all I ask. I'm not asking for an email address or a weblink.
Just leave a name to go with the opinion. That's not a whole hell of a
lot in the scheme of things, so please do it. But
the minute someone flames this site anonymously, that's the minute the
comments section goes bye-bye. I have NO way of managing the comments
section without being ham handed about it. Blogger simply just does not
give you this option. I cannot ban anyone, I can't delete posts. I have
two options: I can either turn off the comments on a post per post
basis, or I can yank them altogether. And I have to say, I lean toward
yanking them altogether rather than having to patrol for trolls.
I am sorry about this. I've been reading blogs for a good long while
now and I've seen too many bloggers struggle with their comments
sections to not take the hard line right out of the gate. You've got
the benefit of my doubt---for now.

End lecture.

Enjoy the changes and again---serious kudos to the husband for saving my bacon.

UPDATE It seems, as usual, I didn't explore enough before making
absolutist statements. It turns out that I can delete comments. Woohoo.
Just call me a troll cop!

You have the right website.

You have the right website. There aren't any laptop gnomes in the house
who snuck in under cover of darkness and switched all your bookmarks
around.
This is the new Cake Eater Chronicles. Everything's fine. Do not adjust
your set.
For the rest of you, well, I hope you like it. I do. I find it much
easier on the eyes. A few things, though.
1. Comments policy can be found here.

Ignore it at your peril.

(Side note, I'm SO digging this permalink business. Woohoo!)

2. While we're on the subject of comments, it seems Blogger wants you to log in if you leave one. Which we all know is so
conducive to cooperation. (I wouldn't log in to leave a comment---are
you kidding? Way too much work.) But it does give you the handy-dandy
option of posting anonymously! (Note to the Blogger People: WOW! Way to
invite the trolls in, kids!) If you choose the option to post
anonymously to save yourself the time and hassle of logging in, that's
fine with me...AS LONG AS YOU LEAVE A HANDLE IN THE TEXT SECTION.
That's all I ask. I'm not asking for an email address or a weblink.
Just leave a name to go with the opinion. That's not a whole hell of a
lot in the scheme of things, so please do it. But
the minute someone flames this site anonymously, that's the minute the
comments section goes bye-bye. I have NO way of managing the comments
section without being ham handed about it. Blogger simply just does not
give you this option. I cannot ban anyone, I can't delete posts. I have
two options: I can either turn off the comments on a post per post
basis, or I can yank them altogether. And I have to say, I lean toward
yanking them altogether rather than having to patrol for trolls.
I am sorry about this. I've been reading blogs for a good long while
now and I've seen too many bloggers struggle with their comments
sections to not take the hard line right out of the gate. You've got
the benefit of my doubt---for now.

End lecture.

Enjoy the changes and again---serious kudos to the husband for saving my bacon.

UPDATE It seems, as usual, I didn't explore enough before making
absolutist statements. It turns out that I can delete comments. Woohoo.
Just call me a troll cop!

Antecedents of RealismLike utopianism in

Antecedents of RealismLike utopianism in international relations
theory, realism has its intellectual roots in older political
philosophy of the West and in the writings of non-Western ancient
authors such as Mencius and the Legalists in China and Kautilya in
India, as well as Thucydides wrote: “What made war inevitable was the
growth of Athenian power and the fear which this caused in Sparta.”
His conception of the importance of power, together with the propensity
of states to form competing alliances, places Thucydides well within
the realist school. Just as Thucydides had developed an understanding
of state behavior from his observation of relations between Athens and
Sparta, Machiavelli analyzed interstate relations in the Italian system
of the sixteenth century. Machiavelli is clearly linked to realist
theory by his emphasis on the ruler’s need to adopt moral standards
different from those of the individual in order to ensure the state’s
survival, his concern with power, his assumption that politics is
characterized by a clash of interests, and his pessimistic view of
human nature.
Thomas Hobbes, like Machiavelli, viewed power as crucial in human
behavior: Man has a “perpetual and restless desire of power after
power that ceaseth only in death.” Hobbes believed that “covenants,
without the sword, are but words and of no strength to secure a man at
all.” Without a strong sovereign, chaos and violence follow: “If
there be no power erected, or not great enough for own security; man
will and may lawfully rely on his own strength and art for caution
against all other men.”
Like other modern realists, Hobbes concerned himself with the
underlying forces of politics and with the nature of power in political
relationships. Although Hobbes believed that a strong sovereign was
mandatory for maintaining order within the political system, he saw
little prospect for fundamentally changing human behavior or the
environment. In his emphasis on strong political institutions for
managing power and preventing conflict, Hobbes paradoxically was closer
to proponents of world government or, to be more precise, world empire
to realists who stress a balance of power among major political groups.
Hobbes regarded the latter condition as analogous to an anarchical
state of nature, but he doubted the possibility of establishing a world
empire. Hegel, more than any other political philosopher, elevated the
position of the state. Although realist writers are usually by no means
Hegelian, Hegel’s belief that the state’s highest duty lies in its
own preservation is found in realist theory. Hegel reasoned that
“since states are related to one another as autonomous entities and
so as political wills on which the validity of treaties depends, and
since the particular will of the whole is in content a will for its own
welfare it follows that welfare is the highest aim governing the
relation of one state to another.” Moreover, Hegel held that the
state has an “individual totality” that develops according to its
own laws. The state has objective reality; that is, it exists apart
from its citizens. Hegel held that the state has moral standards
different from and superior to the individual---a theme that is found
in many realist writings. Among the antecedents of realist theory is
the work of Max Weber, whose writings dealt extensively not only with
the nature of politics and the state, but also with power as central to
politics. Although the richness of Weber’s political thought cannot
be encompassed in a short analysis, suffice it to suggest that, with
respect to realist theory, may of the formulations contained in his
work shaped subsequent generations of writing and scholarship. For
Weber as for later realists, the principal characteristic of politics
is the struggle for power. The power element of political life is
especially evident at the international level because “every
political structure naturally prefers to have weak rather than strong
neighbors. Furthermore, as every big political community is a potential
aspirant to prestige, it is also a potential threat to all of its
neighbors; hence, the big political community, simply because it is big
and strong, is latently and constantly endangered.” Among the
dimensions of politics as a struggle for power, moreover, is that of
economics. In Weber’s thought, economic policy stands in a
subordinate relationship to politics inasmuch as the “power political
interests of nations” encompass an economic struggle for existence.
Among the concerns of realists with which Weber before them was
preoccupied is the ethical problem of intention versus consequences, or
what is also termed the absolute ethic of conviction and the ethic of
responsibility. To adhere to an absolute ethic is to take actions in
keeping with that ethic without regard for their consequences. However,
according to Weber, leaders in an imperfect world confront the need to
behave by a political ethic in which the achievement of “good” may
make the necessary the utilization of less than morally acceptable
means. For Weber the ethic of conviction cannot be separated from an
understanding of the consequences of such action, which in turn gives
concrete meaning to an ethic of responsibility. In contemporary realist
thought the meaning of the ethic of responsibility comes forth in the
notion that each political action must be judged on specific merits
rather than in accordance with some abstract, universal standard. {…}
- Contending Theories of International Relations. James Dougherty and Robert Pfaltzgraff, Jr.

Antecedents of RealismLike utopianism in

Antecedents of RealismLike utopianism in international relations
theory, realism has its intellectual roots in older political
philosophy of the West and in the writings of non-Western ancient
authors such as Mencius and the Legalists in China and Kautilya in
India, as well as Thucydides wrote: “What made war inevitable was the
growth of Athenian power and the fear which this caused in Sparta.”
His conception of the importance of power, together with the propensity
of states to form competing alliances, places Thucydides well within
the realist school. Just as Thucydides had developed an understanding
of state behavior from his observation of relations between Athens and
Sparta, Machiavelli analyzed interstate relations in the Italian system
of the sixteenth century. Machiavelli is clearly linked to realist
theory by his emphasis on the ruler’s need to adopt moral standards
different from those of the individual in order to ensure the state’s
survival, his concern with power, his assumption that politics is
characterized by a clash of interests, and his pessimistic view of
human nature.
Thomas Hobbes, like Machiavelli, viewed power as crucial in human
behavior: Man has a “perpetual and restless desire of power after
power that ceaseth only in death.” Hobbes believed that “covenants,
without the sword, are but words and of no strength to secure a man at
all.” Without a strong sovereign, chaos and violence follow: “If
there be no power erected, or not great enough for own security; man
will and may lawfully rely on his own strength and art for caution
against all other men.”
Like other modern realists, Hobbes concerned himself with the
underlying forces of politics and with the nature of power in political
relationships. Although Hobbes believed that a strong sovereign was
mandatory for maintaining order within the political system, he saw
little prospect for fundamentally changing human behavior or the
environment. In his emphasis on strong political institutions for
managing power and preventing conflict, Hobbes paradoxically was closer
to proponents of world government or, to be more precise, world empire
to realists who stress a balance of power among major political groups.
Hobbes regarded the latter condition as analogous to an anarchical
state of nature, but he doubted the possibility of establishing a world
empire. Hegel, more than any other political philosopher, elevated the
position of the state. Although realist writers are usually by no means
Hegelian, Hegel’s belief that the state’s highest duty lies in its
own preservation is found in realist theory. Hegel reasoned that
“since states are related to one another as autonomous entities and
so as political wills on which the validity of treaties depends, and
since the particular will of the whole is in content a will for its own
welfare it follows that welfare is the highest aim governing the
relation of one state to another.” Moreover, Hegel held that the
state has an “individual totality” that develops according to its
own laws. The state has objective reality; that is, it exists apart
from its citizens. Hegel held that the state has moral standards
different from and superior to the individual---a theme that is found
in many realist writings. Among the antecedents of realist theory is
the work of Max Weber, whose writings dealt extensively not only with
the nature of politics and the state, but also with power as central to
politics. Although the richness of Weber’s political thought cannot
be encompassed in a short analysis, suffice it to suggest that, with
respect to realist theory, may of the formulations contained in his
work shaped subsequent generations of writing and scholarship. For
Weber as for later realists, the principal characteristic of politics
is the struggle for power. The power element of political life is
especially evident at the international level because “every
political structure naturally prefers to have weak rather than strong
neighbors. Furthermore, as every big political community is a potential
aspirant to prestige, it is also a potential threat to all of its
neighbors; hence, the big political community, simply because it is big
and strong, is latently and constantly endangered.” Among the
dimensions of politics as a struggle for power, moreover, is that of
economics. In Weber’s thought, economic policy stands in a
subordinate relationship to politics inasmuch as the “power political
interests of nations” encompass an economic struggle for existence.
Among the concerns of realists with which Weber before them was
preoccupied is the ethical problem of intention versus consequences, or
what is also termed the absolute ethic of conviction and the ethic of
responsibility. To adhere to an absolute ethic is to take actions in
keeping with that ethic without regard for their consequences. However,
according to Weber, leaders in an imperfect world confront the need to
behave by a political ethic in which the achievement of “good” may
make the necessary the utilization of less than morally acceptable
means. For Weber the ethic of conviction cannot be separated from an
understanding of the consequences of such action, which in turn gives
concrete meaning to an ethic of responsibility. In contemporary realist
thought the meaning of the ethic of responsibility comes forth in the
notion that each political action must be judged on specific merits
rather than in accordance with some abstract, universal standard. {…}
- Contending Theories of International Relations. James Dougherty and Robert Pfaltzgraff, Jr.

You know, when you're a

You know, when you're a single girl the last place you ever expect to
meet a real, honest to God, prince is at a bar. But it happened.

Copenhagen - For most girls, meeting a prince and living happily ever after is the stuff of fairy tales. But for Australian commoner Mary Donaldson, who will marry Danish Crown Prince Frederik on Friday, the tale has come true. The youngest of four children whose parents emigrated from Scotland to Australia, Mary met her prince charming in Sydney. While he may not have swept her off her feet right away, he wooed her until she agreed to move to his kingdom where she will one day become queen. The couple were introduced to each other on September 16, 2000 at a bar during the Olympic Games in Sydney, where the prince was enjoying the Aussie nightlife with his younger brother Joachim and Prince Felipe of Spain. "I didn't know who he was at the start," Donaldson later said, admitting that her first encounter with Frederik was "not love at first sight". But she found him to be "warm, loyal, sincere, funny, curious and full of surprises". A strong believer in fate, Mary said she "never imagined four years ago" that she would one day become a member of Europe's oldest monarchy whose origins can be traced back to the 10th century.

I love stories like this.

You know, when you're a

You know, when you're a single girl the last place you ever expect to
meet a real, honest to God, prince is at a bar. But it happened.

Copenhagen - For most girls, meeting a prince and living happily ever after is the stuff of fairy tales. But for Australian commoner Mary Donaldson, who will marry Danish Crown Prince Frederik on Friday, the tale has come true. The youngest of four children whose parents emigrated from Scotland to Australia, Mary met her prince charming in Sydney. While he may not have swept her off her feet right away, he wooed her until she agreed to move to his kingdom where she will one day become queen. The couple were introduced to each other on September 16, 2000 at a bar during the Olympic Games in Sydney, where the prince was enjoying the Aussie nightlife with his younger brother Joachim and Prince Felipe of Spain. "I didn't know who he was at the start," Donaldson later said, admitting that her first encounter with Frederik was "not love at first sight". But she found him to be "warm, loyal, sincere, funny, curious and full of surprises". A strong believer in fate, Mary said she "never imagined four years ago" that she would one day become a member of Europe's oldest monarchy whose origins can be traced back to the 10th century.

I love stories like this.

Critiques of Balance of PowerIn

Critiques of Balance of PowerIn recent decades, the balance of power theory has encountered much criticism even from traditional analysts, and for reasons other than the semantic vagueness mentioned earlier. Nicholas J. Spykman held that the theory inadequately expressed the practice: “The truth of the matter is that states are interested only in balance (imbalance) which is in their favor. Not an equilibrium, but a generous margin is their objective. There is no real security in being just as strong as a potential enemy; there is security only in being a little stronger. There is no possibility of action if one’s strength is fully checked; there is a chance for a positive foreign policy only if there is a margin of force which can be used freely.” Hans J. Morgenthau finds the balance of power deficient on several grounds. It has failed on a number of occasions since the end of the eighteenth century to preserve the independent existence of states. The multistate system precluding a single state from achieving universal domination has been preserved only at a price of frequent and costly wars. He finds the balance of power 1. uncertain because no completely reliable means of measuring, evaluating and comparing power exist; 2. unreal because statesmen try to compensate for its uncertainty by aiming for superiority; and 3. inadequate for explaining national restraint during most of the years from 1648 to 1914 because it does not give credit to the restraining influence of the basic intellectual unity and moral consensus then prevailing in Europe. Ernst B. Haas has observed that using the balance of power as a policy guide assumes a high degree of flexibility in national decision making. The vigilant political leader must engage in a constant power calculus and be ready to enter into a countervailing coalition, regardless of ideological differences, economic interests, and domestic political attitudes. Haas had questioned the degree to which policymakers, especially in democratic countries, can enjoy the kind of flexibility that the balance of power theory would seem to demand. It should be pointed out, however, that the Anglo-American democracies managed to overcome their aversion to Soviet communism in WWII against Nazi Germany, and in more recent decades, the United States has apparently sought to play a balance of power game vis-à-vis the People’s Republic of China and the {former} Soviet Union. Kenneth N. Waltz had defended the balance of power theory against critics who, in his view, have misunderstood certain crucial points. Every theory, he argues, must begin with some assumptions. He assumes that are unitary actors that see, at a minimum, to preserve themselves, and at a maximum, to dominate others if possible. They strive to achieve their objectives through internal efforts (e.g. strengthening their own alliance and weakening that of the adversary). He then adds the condition that states are operating in a self-help system with no superior referee. Thos who do not help themselves as well as others do will become disadvantaged. Assumptions, Waltz points out, are neither true nor false, but they are essential for the construction of a theory. In Waltz’s theory of structural realism, the balance of power is rooted inescapably and necessarily in the international system of states. Thus he parts company with other theorists of the balance of power---Hume, Churchill, Organski, Morgenthau, Haas, Kissinger, and others---who have held that the balance of power policy is something to be followed voluntarily by wise and prudent political leaders. For Waltz, the tendency toward equilibrium is automatic, regardless of whether “some or all states consciously aim to establish and maintain a balance, or whether some or all states aim for universal domination.” If the results to be produced (i.e. balance) depend upon some or all states’ consciously working for it, then international politics can be explained by theories of national bureaucratic policymaking, and an international balance of power theory would have nothing to explain. Waltz wants a theory applicable to the international system irrespective of the behavior of particular states. Contending Theories of International Relations James E. Dougherty and Robert L. Pfaltzgraff, Jr

Critiques of Balance of PowerIn

Critiques of Balance of PowerIn recent decades, the balance of power theory has encountered much criticism even from traditional analysts, and for reasons other than the semantic vagueness mentioned earlier. Nicholas J. Spykman held that the theory inadequately expressed the practice: “The truth of the matter is that states are interested only in balance (imbalance) which is in their favor. Not an equilibrium, but a generous margin is their objective. There is no real security in being just as strong as a potential enemy; there is security only in being a little stronger. There is no possibility of action if one’s strength is fully checked; there is a chance for a positive foreign policy only if there is a margin of force which can be used freely.” Hans J. Morgenthau finds the balance of power deficient on several grounds. It has failed on a number of occasions since the end of the eighteenth century to preserve the independent existence of states. The multistate system precluding a single state from achieving universal domination has been preserved only at a price of frequent and costly wars. He finds the balance of power 1. uncertain because no completely reliable means of measuring, evaluating and comparing power exist; 2. unreal because statesmen try to compensate for its uncertainty by aiming for superiority; and 3. inadequate for explaining national restraint during most of the years from 1648 to 1914 because it does not give credit to the restraining influence of the basic intellectual unity and moral consensus then prevailing in Europe. Ernst B. Haas has observed that using the balance of power as a policy guide assumes a high degree of flexibility in national decision making. The vigilant political leader must engage in a constant power calculus and be ready to enter into a countervailing coalition, regardless of ideological differences, economic interests, and domestic political attitudes. Haas had questioned the degree to which policymakers, especially in democratic countries, can enjoy the kind of flexibility that the balance of power theory would seem to demand. It should be pointed out, however, that the Anglo-American democracies managed to overcome their aversion to Soviet communism in WWII against Nazi Germany, and in more recent decades, the United States has apparently sought to play a balance of power game vis-à-vis the People’s Republic of China and the {former} Soviet Union. Kenneth N. Waltz had defended the balance of power theory against critics who, in his view, have misunderstood certain crucial points. Every theory, he argues, must begin with some assumptions. He assumes that are unitary actors that see, at a minimum, to preserve themselves, and at a maximum, to dominate others if possible. They strive to achieve their objectives through internal efforts (e.g. strengthening their own alliance and weakening that of the adversary). He then adds the condition that states are operating in a self-help system with no superior referee. Thos who do not help themselves as well as others do will become disadvantaged. Assumptions, Waltz points out, are neither true nor false, but they are essential for the construction of a theory. In Waltz’s theory of structural realism, the balance of power is rooted inescapably and necessarily in the international system of states. Thus he parts company with other theorists of the balance of power---Hume, Churchill, Organski, Morgenthau, Haas, Kissinger, and others---who have held that the balance of power policy is something to be followed voluntarily by wise and prudent political leaders. For Waltz, the tendency toward equilibrium is automatic, regardless of whether “some or all states consciously aim to establish and maintain a balance, or whether some or all states aim for universal domination.” If the results to be produced (i.e. balance) depend upon some or all states’ consciously working for it, then international politics can be explained by theories of national bureaucratic policymaking, and an international balance of power theory would have nothing to explain. Waltz wants a theory applicable to the international system irrespective of the behavior of particular states. Contending Theories of International Relations James E. Dougherty and Robert L. Pfaltzgraff, Jr

China's apparently not too enthused

China's apparently not too enthused
about the President of Taiwan's pro-independence position. So much so
that they're threatening to put everything they've worked so hard for
aside to threaten the Taiwanese.

May 19 (Bloomberg) -- China stepped up threats of attack
against Taiwan a day before President Chen Shui-bian's inauguration,
saying it would be willing to forfeit strong U.S. ties, economic growth
and the success of the 2008 Beijing Olympics to quash independence
moves by force. ``The mainland is ready to afford a slowdown in its
modernization bid, a reversion in Sino-U.S. ties and the boycott of the
Olympic Games,'' government-owned China Daily quoted Xu Bodong,
director of the Institute of Taiwan Studies at Beijing United
University, as saying. Chen, 53, an advocate of Taiwan independence,
takes the oath of office for a second term at noon tomorrow in Taipei.
China is trying to pressure him to soften his anti-China stance in his
inaugural speech, China Daily said. ``It could be just a matter of them
making it crystal clear how they feel,'' said Michael DeGolyer,
international studies professor at Hong Kong Baptist University. This
week's attacks on Taiwan may be ``rhetorical overshoot,'' he said.

Clancy-speak: Anyone have any idea of how many boats have been deployed
from Diego Garcia lately? I sincerely hope the US had already
anticipated the PRC's itchy nervousness and currently has at least ONE
air craft carrier deployed in the South China Sea. Second bit of Clancy
Speak: Where the #$%% does the PRC get off laying down that type of
threat? And is their unusual bluntness related to our recent troubles
in Iraq? Do they think they could actually get away with such a
maneuver because we've got our hands full?

China's apparently not too enthused

China's apparently not too enthused
about the President of Taiwan's pro-independence position. So much so
that they're threatening to put everything they've worked so hard for
aside to threaten the Taiwanese.

May 19 (Bloomberg) -- China stepped up threats of attack
against Taiwan a day before President Chen Shui-bian's inauguration,
saying it would be willing to forfeit strong U.S. ties, economic growth
and the success of the 2008 Beijing Olympics to quash independence
moves by force. ``The mainland is ready to afford a slowdown in its
modernization bid, a reversion in Sino-U.S. ties and the boycott of the
Olympic Games,'' government-owned China Daily quoted Xu Bodong,
director of the Institute of Taiwan Studies at Beijing United
University, as saying. Chen, 53, an advocate of Taiwan independence,
takes the oath of office for a second term at noon tomorrow in Taipei.
China is trying to pressure him to soften his anti-China stance in his
inaugural speech, China Daily said. ``It could be just a matter of them
making it crystal clear how they feel,'' said Michael DeGolyer,
international studies professor at Hong Kong Baptist University. This
week's attacks on Taiwan may be ``rhetorical overshoot,'' he said.

Clancy-speak: Anyone have any idea of how many boats have been deployed
from Diego Garcia lately? I sincerely hope the US had already
anticipated the PRC's itchy nervousness and currently has at least ONE
air craft carrier deployed in the South China Sea. Second bit of Clancy
Speak: Where the #$%% does the PRC get off laying down that type of
threat? And is their unusual bluntness related to our recent troubles
in Iraq? Do they think they could actually get away with such a
maneuver because we've got our hands full?

Singer David Cassidy insulted the

Singer David Cassidy insulted the Welsh at a concert in Cardiff, saying: "I don't know how you live here without slitting your wrists." The ex-Partridge Family star, who became famous in the 1970s, also ridiculed the Welsh accent during his half-empty gig, The Sun has reported.

Finally. The mighty have fallen! This, of course, is not to say that if his brother Shaun ever made a comeback that I wouldn't be all over that. Because I would. I have no shame.

Singer David Cassidy insulted the

Singer David Cassidy insulted the Welsh at a concert in Cardiff, saying: "I don't know how you live here without slitting your wrists." The ex-Partridge Family star, who became famous in the 1970s, also ridiculed the Welsh accent during his half-empty gig, The Sun has reported.

Finally. The mighty have fallen! This, of course, is not to say that if his brother Shaun ever made a comeback that I wouldn't be all over that. Because I would. I have no shame.

--- I believe I've mentioned

--- I believe I've mentioned our screwy procedures for putting up
photos here. I take them off the camera, send them to the husband, he
completes any editing that might need to be done, puts them up on his
business server and then sends back a nice image link for me to place
here. A friend in England sent me some treats today, and this was in
the package. It made me laugh in a Beavis-ish way and so I took a
picture and followed the routine. The husband sent back more than a
link. First, the photo:

Second, the husband's words:

"Most wives threaten to open a can of whoop ass....mine brings out
the spotted dick. A much more insidious threat, if you ask me."

Third, a semi-related thought for the evening before logging off and going to bed:

Do you think Theresa Heinz Kerry pulls out one of these every time John gets the wandering eye, and shouts "REMEMBER WHERE THE MONEY COMES FROM, JAG-OFF!"

Just wondering.

It's promise and threat, all rolled into one tasty concoction.

--- I believe I've mentioned

--- I believe I've mentioned our screwy procedures for putting up
photos here. I take them off the camera, send them to the husband, he
completes any editing that might need to be done, puts them up on his
business server and then sends back a nice image link for me to place
here. A friend in England sent me some treats today, and this was in
the package. It made me laugh in a Beavis-ish way and so I took a
picture and followed the routine. The husband sent back more than a
link. First, the photo:

Second, the husband's words:

"Most wives threaten to open a can of whoop ass....mine brings out
the spotted dick. A much more insidious threat, if you ask me."

Third, a semi-related thought for the evening before logging off and going to bed:

Do you think Theresa Heinz Kerry pulls out one of these every time John gets the wandering eye, and shouts "REMEMBER WHERE THE MONEY COMES FROM, JAG-OFF!"

Just wondering.

It's promise and threat, all rolled into one tasty concoction.

No, it's not Al-Qaeda who's

No, it's not Al-Qaeda who's going to scare you into converting. (At
least not yet)
It's the Pentecostals.

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Two preachers grounded a flight leaving Buffalo, New York, after they frightened passengers by declaring the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks were a good reason to pray, officials said on Thursday. One preacher told fellow passengers as the Continental Airlines plane taxied down the runway, "Your last breath on earth is the first one in heaven as long as you are born again and have Jesus in your heart," according to FBI (news - web sites) spokesman Paul Moskal. Passengers on the Wednesday flight to Newark, New Jersey told a flight attendant, who alerted the plane's captain, officials said. The captain turned the plane around. "They were sincere in their beliefs and were not malicious," Moskal said by telephone from Buffalo. "In the context of 9/11 it may not have been the best way to promote their religion."

Gives new meaning to the phrase, "repent now or suffer the fires of damnation," doesn't it?

No, it's not Al-Qaeda who's

No, it's not Al-Qaeda who's going to scare you into converting. (At
least not yet)
It's the Pentecostals.

NEW YORK (Reuters) - Two preachers grounded a flight leaving Buffalo, New York, after they frightened passengers by declaring the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks were a good reason to pray, officials said on Thursday. One preacher told fellow passengers as the Continental Airlines plane taxied down the runway, "Your last breath on earth is the first one in heaven as long as you are born again and have Jesus in your heart," according to FBI (news - web sites) spokesman Paul Moskal. Passengers on the Wednesday flight to Newark, New Jersey told a flight attendant, who alerted the plane's captain, officials said. The captain turned the plane around. "They were sincere in their beliefs and were not malicious," Moskal said by telephone from Buffalo. "In the context of 9/11 it may not have been the best way to promote their religion."

Gives new meaning to the phrase, "repent now or suffer the fires of damnation," doesn't it?

Balance of Power: Purposes and

Balance of Power: Purposes and Functions Various purposes and functions were attributed to the balance of power in classical theory as expounded by Bolingbroke, Gentz, Metternich, and Castlereagh. It was supposed to 1. prevent the establishment of a universal hegemony, 2. preserve the constituent elements of the system and the system itself, 3. ensure stability and mutual security in the international system and 4. strengthen and prolong the peace by deterring war, that is by confronting an aggressor with the likelihood that a policy of expansion would meet with the formation of a countercoalition. The traditional methods and techniques of maintaining or restoring the balance were a. the policy of divide and rule (working to diminish the weight of the heavier side), 2. territorial compensations after a war, 3. creating of buffer states, 4. the formation of alliances, 5. spheres of influence, 6. intervention, 7. diplomatic bargaining, 8. legal and peaceful settlement of disputes, 9. reduction of armaments, 10. armaments competition or races, and 11. war itself. A review of the list of objectives and methods will show that there were internal inconsistencies in the theory and in the practices. These were probably unavoidable, given the historic oscillation between stable and unstable equilibria within the nation-state system. If the balance of power had worked perfectly as all statesmen expected, and if the existing distribution of power had posed no threat to their national security, then the balance of power as situation, law, policy and system would almost certainly have contributed to the prolongation of peace. But the dynamics of the international political system were conducive neither to serene stability nor to prudent rational decision-making at all times. Moreover, statesmen pursuing only what they considered their own legitimate national interest---a term closely associated with the balance of power system---may have appeared in the eyes of other statesmen as conspiring to overturn the international system and gain predominance. Conversely, a government embarked upon a hegemonial path might not provoke the formation of a countercoalition until it was too late to prevent the large scale war declared to restore the balance. In theory, the balance of power policy helped preserve the peace and identity of member-states, but in practice balance of power policy sometimes led to war and to the partitioning of “less essential” actors (such as Poland in the 1790’s). But keeping the peace and preserving all the lesser members intact were subordinate to the more fundamental aims of preserving the multi-state system by observing the maxim expressed by Freidrich Gentz: “That if the states system of Europe is to exist and be maintained by common exertions no one of its members must ever become so powerful as to be able to coerce all the rest put together.” Another key concept in the classical theory must be mentioned. Under normal circumstances, with several nations seeking to maximize their power position through the various methods and techniques of balance of power politics, no one nation gains hegemony, and a precarious equilibrium is maintained. But for various reasons, the balance might be on the verge of breaking down. At this point an impartial and vigilant “holder of the balance” emerges, which is strong enough to restore the balance swiftly once it is disturbed. Historically, England played this role in the European state system. In a famous memorandum published on January 1, 1907, Sir Eyre Crowe wrote that it had “become almost a historical truism to identify England’s secular policy with the maintenance of this balance by throwing her weight now in this scale and now in that, but ever on the side opposed to the political dictatorship of the strongest single state or group at a given time. Winston Churchill reiterated this as a fundamental tenet of British foreign policy in 1936. Perhaps the theory of the balance of power, as a policy guide to statesmen, is a distinctively British theory, at least in modern times. Contending Theories of International Relations James E. Dougherty and Robert L. Pfaltzgraff, Jr

Balance of Power: Purposes and

Balance of Power: Purposes and Functions Various purposes and functions were attributed to the balance of power in classical theory as expounded by Bolingbroke, Gentz, Metternich, and Castlereagh. It was supposed to 1. prevent the establishment of a universal hegemony, 2. preserve the constituent elements of the system and the system itself, 3. ensure stability and mutual security in the international system and 4. strengthen and prolong the peace by deterring war, that is by confronting an aggressor with the likelihood that a policy of expansion would meet with the formation of a countercoalition. The traditional methods and techniques of maintaining or restoring the balance were a. the policy of divide and rule (working to diminish the weight of the heavier side), 2. territorial compensations after a war, 3. creating of buffer states, 4. the formation of alliances, 5. spheres of influence, 6. intervention, 7. diplomatic bargaining, 8. legal and peaceful settlement of disputes, 9. reduction of armaments, 10. armaments competition or races, and 11. war itself. A review of the list of objectives and methods will show that there were internal inconsistencies in the theory and in the practices. These were probably unavoidable, given the historic oscillation between stable and unstable equilibria within the nation-state system. If the balance of power had worked perfectly as all statesmen expected, and if the existing distribution of power had posed no threat to their national security, then the balance of power as situation, law, policy and system would almost certainly have contributed to the prolongation of peace. But the dynamics of the international political system were conducive neither to serene stability nor to prudent rational decision-making at all times. Moreover, statesmen pursuing only what they considered their own legitimate national interest---a term closely associated with the balance of power system---may have appeared in the eyes of other statesmen as conspiring to overturn the international system and gain predominance. Conversely, a government embarked upon a hegemonial path might not provoke the formation of a countercoalition until it was too late to prevent the large scale war declared to restore the balance. In theory, the balance of power policy helped preserve the peace and identity of member-states, but in practice balance of power policy sometimes led to war and to the partitioning of “less essential” actors (such as Poland in the 1790’s). But keeping the peace and preserving all the lesser members intact were subordinate to the more fundamental aims of preserving the multi-state system by observing the maxim expressed by Freidrich Gentz: “That if the states system of Europe is to exist and be maintained by common exertions no one of its members must ever become so powerful as to be able to coerce all the rest put together.” Another key concept in the classical theory must be mentioned. Under normal circumstances, with several nations seeking to maximize their power position through the various methods and techniques of balance of power politics, no one nation gains hegemony, and a precarious equilibrium is maintained. But for various reasons, the balance might be on the verge of breaking down. At this point an impartial and vigilant “holder of the balance” emerges, which is strong enough to restore the balance swiftly once it is disturbed. Historically, England played this role in the European state system. In a famous memorandum published on January 1, 1907, Sir Eyre Crowe wrote that it had “become almost a historical truism to identify England’s secular policy with the maintenance of this balance by throwing her weight now in this scale and now in that, but ever on the side opposed to the political dictatorship of the strongest single state or group at a given time. Winston Churchill reiterated this as a fundamental tenet of British foreign policy in 1936. Perhaps the theory of the balance of power, as a policy guide to statesmen, is a distinctively British theory, at least in modern times. Contending Theories of International Relations James E. Dougherty and Robert L. Pfaltzgraff, Jr

...I'm a bad, bad girl.

...I'm a bad, bad girl. No, that's not the tidbit that rumor has. Shit.
That's common knowledge. I'm a bad girl because I like going to Gawker and Defamer
and peeking around. I particularly love the Gawker Stalker---it's like
working at the mall and selling Chaka Khan a cup of coffee all over again!

These venerable gossip blogs who read the Post's Page Six for me so I don't have to feel dirty, have reported often that Owen Wilson has a blog. Go here and
check out the alleged scene of the crime. Thing is, we don't know that
this is Owen's blog, because "Rance" is a psuedonym. Now, I can
understand why a Hollywood big shot of Owen's stature would want to
keep a low profile---if he's "Rance." You couldn't dish the dirt if
people knew it was you, could you? And it's not like he's ever going to
come clean because no one would believe him if he did. Now, Gawker and
Defamer say that this is his blog. They've made their decision. However
sure they are of themselves, I'm not. I can see him writing it, though.
Owen's always struck me as a clever guy, and if he's killing hours in
his trailer by writing a blog, well, more power to him. Go and check it
out if you get the chance. He seems to be absorbed by puzzles.
Although, Owen---if it is you---one bit of advice: get the hell off of
tripod. There are better blogging services out there. You can probably
even afford Moveable Type now. Hell, even Blogger's gotta be better
than Tripod.

...I'm a bad, bad girl.

...I'm a bad, bad girl. No, that's not the tidbit that rumor has. Shit.
That's common knowledge. I'm a bad girl because I like going to Gawker and Defamer
and peeking around. I particularly love the Gawker Stalker---it's like
working at the mall and selling Chaka Khan a cup of coffee all over again!

These venerable gossip blogs who read the Post's Page Six for me so I don't have to feel dirty, have reported often that Owen Wilson has a blog. Go here and
check out the alleged scene of the crime. Thing is, we don't know that
this is Owen's blog, because "Rance" is a psuedonym. Now, I can
understand why a Hollywood big shot of Owen's stature would want to
keep a low profile---if he's "Rance." You couldn't dish the dirt if
people knew it was you, could you? And it's not like he's ever going to
come clean because no one would believe him if he did. Now, Gawker and
Defamer say that this is his blog. They've made their decision. However
sure they are of themselves, I'm not. I can see him writing it, though.
Owen's always struck me as a clever guy, and if he's killing hours in
his trailer by writing a blog, well, more power to him. Go and check it
out if you get the chance. He seems to be absorbed by puzzles.
Although, Owen---if it is you---one bit of advice: get the hell off of
tripod. There are better blogging services out there. You can probably
even afford Moveable Type now. Hell, even Blogger's gotta be better
than Tripod.

He calls this an outstanding

He calls this an outstanding development.

Sha. Right.

As for the suspicion all of you are holding: Yes, all those larger Danish bust measurements are for real, and not artificially derived. "The breasts are genuine [ægte]," Ms. Andersen states flat-out. (What, not even any rounding errors?) It's all due to rising health and nutrition standards, with most childhood diseases now eliminated through vaccinations and many more vitamins and minerals consumed in Danish girls' diets.

I can't read the original article because, duh, it's in Danish and they want me to register, so I suppose I'll have to take the guy's word for it. All those larger boob measurements are for real?

Yeah. Ok. Whatever. I'm not buying it.

He calls this an outstanding

He calls this an outstanding development.

Sha. Right.

As for the suspicion all of you are holding: Yes, all those larger Danish bust measurements are for real, and not artificially derived. "The breasts are genuine [ægte]," Ms. Andersen states flat-out. (What, not even any rounding errors?) It's all due to rising health and nutrition standards, with most childhood diseases now eliminated through vaccinations and many more vitamins and minerals consumed in Danish girls' diets.

I can't read the original article because, duh, it's in Danish and they want me to register, so I suppose I'll have to take the guy's word for it. All those larger boob measurements are for real?

Yeah. Ok. Whatever. I'm not buying it.

--- Since it's Friday night,

--- Since it's Friday night, let's get a little wild with international relations theory.

Realist Theory Versus Utopianism
"Realist theory dominated the study of international relations in the
United States from the 1940s to the 1960s. Moreover, what is termed the
traditional paradigm of the international system is based upon the
assumptions found in realist theory: 1. that nation-states, in a
“state-centric” system, are the key actors; 2. that domestic
politics are clearly separated from foreign policy; 3. that
international politics is a struggle for power in an anarchic
environment; 4. that there are gradations of capabilities among
nation-states---greater powers and lesser states---in a decentralized
international system of states possessing legal equality, or
sovereignty. Nevertheless, since the 1970’s there has been not only a
revival of interest in realism but the emergence of a broadly based
neorealist approach, described in this chapter. Textbooks by realist
scholars and their other writings, often policy-oriented, especially in
the generation after WWII, have had wide currency both in official and
academic circles… Realist theory, like utopianism in this respect, is
normative and policy-oriented, although its proponents purport to
present an analysis based upon a theoretical framework drawn from
history of the international system, especially the era of Europe’s
classical balance of power. In part, realist theory stand as a critique
of utopianism, whose normative emphasis is the possibility of
transforming the nation-state system through international law and
organization. In marked contrast, realism posits that the prospects for
effecting a dramatic and fundamental transformation in the
international system are not great. The international system is shaped
by numerous forces, many of which are unchanging and unchangeable.
Unlike utopians, realists assume there is no essential harmony of
interest among nations. Instead, they suggest that nation-states often
have conflicting national objectives, some of which may lead to war.
{…}Realist theorist assume that certain largely immutable factors
such as geography and the nature of human behavior shape international
conduct. In contrast to utopianism, realism holds that human nature is
essentially constant, or at least not easily altered. In the utopian
framework human behavior is said to be improvable, and perhaps even
perfectible. Utopianism is based on the idea that politics can be made
to conform to an ethical standard. Norms of behavior, such as those
specified in international law and organization, can be established,
and, later if not sooner, can be made the basis for international
behavior. In contrast the realist posits that there are severe
limitations on in the extent to which political reform or education can
alter human nature: Humankind is evil, sinful, and power seeking.
According to realist theory, human nature is not innately good or
perfectible. The task of the statesman lies in fashioning political
frameworks within which the human propensity to engage in conflict can
be minimized. Hence the realist writers emphasize regulatory mechanisms
such as balance of power… Because of the difficulty of achieving
peace through international law and organization, or even by means of
world government, it is necessary to devise other arrangements for the
management of power. The balance of power is said to furnish an
important regulatory device to prevent any other nation or other
political group from hegemony. {…}Realists assume, moreover, that
moral principles in their abstract formulation cannot be applied to
specific political actions. The statesman operates in an international
environment within the state by the absence of authoritative political
institutions, legal systems, and commonly accepted standards of
conduct. Therefore, the standards of conduct at the international level
differ from those governing behavior within a national unit. In the
words of George F. Kennan, “Government is an agent, not a principal.
Its primary obligation is to the interests of the national society it
represents, not to the moral impulses of the individual elements of
that society may experience."" -Contending Theories of International Relations. James Dougherty and Robert Pfaltzgraff, Jr.

--- Since it's Friday night,

--- Since it's Friday night, let's get a little wild with international relations theory.

Realist Theory Versus Utopianism
"Realist theory dominated the study of international relations in the
United States from the 1940s to the 1960s. Moreover, what is termed the
traditional paradigm of the international system is based upon the
assumptions found in realist theory: 1. that nation-states, in a
“state-centric” system, are the key actors; 2. that domestic
politics are clearly separated from foreign policy; 3. that
international politics is a struggle for power in an anarchic
environment; 4. that there are gradations of capabilities among
nation-states---greater powers and lesser states---in a decentralized
international system of states possessing legal equality, or
sovereignty. Nevertheless, since the 1970’s there has been not only a
revival of interest in realism but the emergence of a broadly based
neorealist approach, described in this chapter. Textbooks by realist
scholars and their other writings, often policy-oriented, especially in
the generation after WWII, have had wide currency both in official and
academic circles… Realist theory, like utopianism in this respect, is
normative and policy-oriented, although its proponents purport to
present an analysis based upon a theoretical framework drawn from
history of the international system, especially the era of Europe’s
classical balance of power. In part, realist theory stand as a critique
of utopianism, whose normative emphasis is the possibility of
transforming the nation-state system through international law and
organization. In marked contrast, realism posits that the prospects for
effecting a dramatic and fundamental transformation in the
international system are not great. The international system is shaped
by numerous forces, many of which are unchanging and unchangeable.
Unlike utopians, realists assume there is no essential harmony of
interest among nations. Instead, they suggest that nation-states often
have conflicting national objectives, some of which may lead to war.
{…}Realist theorist assume that certain largely immutable factors
such as geography and the nature of human behavior shape international
conduct. In contrast to utopianism, realism holds that human nature is
essentially constant, or at least not easily altered. In the utopian
framework human behavior is said to be improvable, and perhaps even
perfectible. Utopianism is based on the idea that politics can be made
to conform to an ethical standard. Norms of behavior, such as those
specified in international law and organization, can be established,
and, later if not sooner, can be made the basis for international
behavior. In contrast the realist posits that there are severe
limitations on in the extent to which political reform or education can
alter human nature: Humankind is evil, sinful, and power seeking.
According to realist theory, human nature is not innately good or
perfectible. The task of the statesman lies in fashioning political
frameworks within which the human propensity to engage in conflict can
be minimized. Hence the realist writers emphasize regulatory mechanisms
such as balance of power… Because of the difficulty of achieving
peace through international law and organization, or even by means of
world government, it is necessary to devise other arrangements for the
management of power. The balance of power is said to furnish an
important regulatory device to prevent any other nation or other
political group from hegemony. {…}Realists assume, moreover, that
moral principles in their abstract formulation cannot be applied to
specific political actions. The statesman operates in an international
environment within the state by the absence of authoritative political
institutions, legal systems, and commonly accepted standards of
conduct. Therefore, the standards of conduct at the international level
differ from those governing behavior within a national unit. In the
words of George F. Kennan, “Government is an agent, not a principal.
Its primary obligation is to the interests of the national society it
represents, not to the moral impulses of the individual elements of
that society may experience."" -Contending Theories of International Relations. James Dougherty and Robert Pfaltzgraff, Jr.

--- Look out, Omaha City

--- Look out, Omaha City Council. I have a feeling my mother is gonna go on a rampage.

Why?

A City Councilman in Omaha is proposing a workplace" smoking ban.

It's time to clear the air for Omaha employees, according to City
Councilman Marc Kraft. Kraft is proposing a workplace smoking ban. He
hopes the council will consider the measure by August, a timetable that
should give everyone involved a chance to voice their opinion. Kraft
said the city should ensure that workers have a safe, healthy
atmosphere. "We don't allow people to work in areas full of asbestos or
other carcinogens," he said.
Uh-oh. This could get really ugly.

--- Look out, Omaha City

--- Look out, Omaha City Council. I have a feeling my mother is gonna go on a rampage.

Why?

A City Councilman in Omaha is proposing a workplace" smoking ban.

It's time to clear the air for Omaha employees, according to City
Councilman Marc Kraft. Kraft is proposing a workplace smoking ban. He
hopes the council will consider the measure by August, a timetable that
should give everyone involved a chance to voice their opinion. Kraft
said the city should ensure that workers have a safe, healthy
atmosphere. "We don't allow people to work in areas full of asbestos or
other carcinogens," he said.
Uh-oh. This could get really ugly.

Again, it's a Friday night.

Again, it's a Friday night. Let us continue with some really exciting international relations theory. Try and stay awake.

Balance of Power The oldest, most persistent and most controversial of all theories of international politics---the balance of power---was recognized at least implicitly in ancient India and in ancient Greece, although it was never formally articulated. David Hume noted that although the term balance of power may be modern, “the maxim of preserving the balance of power is founded so much on common sense and obvious reasoning that it is impossible that it could altogether have escaped antiquity,” concluding that it had been practiced from ancient times to the eighteenth century. Insofar as it could be called a formal theory of international politics, the modern concept of balance of power was associated with the Newtonian conception of the universe in equilibrium. {…}Naturally, theorists of international social reality employ “balance” as a central organizing concept for the power relations of nation-states, and then assume that the latter are driven, almost by a law of their own nature, to seek their security by some form of power-balancing. Balance of Power: Problems and Definitions

The term balance of power
has been roundly criticized for causing considerable semantic
confusion. Ernst B. Haas found at least eight distinct meanings for the
term: 1. any distribution of power, 2. equilibrium or balancing
process, 3. hegemony or search for hegemony, 4. stability and peace in
a concert of power, 5. instability and war, 6. power politics in
general, 7. a universal law of history, and 8. a system and guide to
policymakers. “The trouble with the balance of power,” says Inis L.
Claude, Jr. “is not that it has not meaning but that it has too many
meanings.” The term that has been used to connote equilibrium and
disequilibrium, or any distribution of power whether balanced or
unbalanced, or as both policy and system (either automatic and
self-regulating or wholly dependent upon manipulation by shrewd
statesmen). Claude concludes that the concept of balance of power is
extremely difficult to analyze because those who write about it not
only fail to provide precise clues as to its meaning but often “slide
blissfully from one usage of the term ro another and back again,
without posting any warning that plural meanings exist.”
It is true that the concept of balance of power is riddled with
ambiguity. Many statesmen have sought a unilateral superiority rather
than an objective bilateral balance with their principal rival.
Nevertheless, it is theoretically possible to conceive of the balance
of power as a situation or condition, as a universal tendency or law of
state behavior, as a guide for statesmanship, and as a mode of
system-maintenance characteristic of certain types of international
systems. As long as we think in terms of equilibrium rather than
superiority, these four usages need not be inconsistent with each
other. Conceived as a situation or condition, balance of power implies
an objective arrangement in which there is relatively widespread
satisfaction with the distribution of power. The universal tendency or
law describes a probability, and enables one to predict, that members
of a system threatened by the emergence of a “disturber of the
balance”---that is, a power seemingly bent on establishing an
international hegemony---will form a countervailing coalition. Balance
of power as a policy guide prescribes to statesmen who would act
“rationally” that they should maintain eternal vigilance and be
prepared to organize a countervailing coalition against the disrupter
of equilibrium. Balance of power as a system refers to a multinational
society in which all essential factors preserve their identity,
integrity, and independence through the balancing process. Contending Theories of International Relations James E. Dougherty and Robert L. Pfaltzgraff, Jr.

Again, it's a Friday night.

Again, it's a Friday night. Let us continue with some really exciting international relations theory. Try and stay awake.

Balance of Power The oldest, most persistent and most controversial of all theories of international politics---the balance of power---was recognized at least implicitly in ancient India and in ancient Greece, although it was never formally articulated. David Hume noted that although the term balance of power may be modern, “the maxim of preserving the balance of power is founded so much on common sense and obvious reasoning that it is impossible that it could altogether have escaped antiquity,” concluding that it had been practiced from ancient times to the eighteenth century. Insofar as it could be called a formal theory of international politics, the modern concept of balance of power was associated with the Newtonian conception of the universe in equilibrium. {…}Naturally, theorists of international social reality employ “balance” as a central organizing concept for the power relations of nation-states, and then assume that the latter are driven, almost by a law of their own nature, to seek their security by some form of power-balancing. Balance of Power: Problems and Definitions

The term balance of power
has been roundly criticized for causing considerable semantic
confusion. Ernst B. Haas found at least eight distinct meanings for the
term: 1. any distribution of power, 2. equilibrium or balancing
process, 3. hegemony or search for hegemony, 4. stability and peace in
a concert of power, 5. instability and war, 6. power politics in
general, 7. a universal law of history, and 8. a system and guide to
policymakers. “The trouble with the balance of power,” says Inis L.
Claude, Jr. “is not that it has not meaning but that it has too many
meanings.” The term that has been used to connote equilibrium and
disequilibrium, or any distribution of power whether balanced or
unbalanced, or as both policy and system (either automatic and
self-regulating or wholly dependent upon manipulation by shrewd
statesmen). Claude concludes that the concept of balance of power is
extremely difficult to analyze because those who write about it not
only fail to provide precise clues as to its meaning but often “slide
blissfully from one usage of the term ro another and back again,
without posting any warning that plural meanings exist.”
It is true that the concept of balance of power is riddled with
ambiguity. Many statesmen have sought a unilateral superiority rather
than an objective bilateral balance with their principal rival.
Nevertheless, it is theoretically possible to conceive of the balance
of power as a situation or condition, as a universal tendency or law of
state behavior, as a guide for statesmanship, and as a mode of
system-maintenance characteristic of certain types of international
systems. As long as we think in terms of equilibrium rather than
superiority, these four usages need not be inconsistent with each
other. Conceived as a situation or condition, balance of power implies
an objective arrangement in which there is relatively widespread
satisfaction with the distribution of power. The universal tendency or
law describes a probability, and enables one to predict, that members
of a system threatened by the emergence of a “disturber of the
balance”---that is, a power seemingly bent on establishing an
international hegemony---will form a countervailing coalition. Balance
of power as a policy guide prescribes to statesmen who would act
“rationally” that they should maintain eternal vigilance and be
prepared to organize a countervailing coalition against the disrupter
of equilibrium. Balance of power as a system refers to a multinational
society in which all essential factors preserve their identity,
integrity, and independence through the balancing process. Contending Theories of International Relations James E. Dougherty and Robert L. Pfaltzgraff, Jr.

--- Do you remember Don

--- Do you remember Don Music from your childhood? If you watched
Sesame Street, you might remember him---vaguely.
Don was a composer who could never get the words to rhyme. Invariably,
as he became increasingly frustrated, he would start banging his head
against his piano, as if that would solve the problem. I don't know
what exactly they were trying to teach us becuase I can't remember the
moral of his little stories---all I can remember is the head banging
and the frustration that led up to it.
There are many times I feel like Don Music. This would be one of them.
Scientists Embrace Plot for 'Tomorrow'

No one is pretending the forthcoming film ``The Day After Tomorrow''
is anything but implausible: In the $125 million movie, global warming
triggers a cascade of events that practically flash freeze the planet.
It's an abruptness no one believes possible, least of all the
filmmakers behind the 20th Century Fox release. ``It's very
cinematic to choose the worst-case scenario, which we did,'' said
co-screenwriter Jeffrey Nachmanoff.
Nonetheless, scientists are embracing the movie, unusual for those
whose stock in trade is fact.
``My first reaction was, 'Oh my God, this is a disaster because it is
such a distortion of the science. It will certainly create a
backlash,''' said Dan Schrag, a Harvard University paleoclimatologist.
``I have sobered up somewhat, because the
public is probably smart enough to distinguish between Hollywood and
the real world.''

Oh, we're probably
smart enough to distinguish between Hollywood and the real world? Gee
thanks for your overwhelming vote of approval. Could you can wipe the
drool from my cro-magnon chin because you seem like a really nice guy
and all and God only knows I really depend upon people like you to help
me realize what's really important in this world. / sarcasm.
The backlash is comin' boy---it's going to be just as you predicted,
though, because I'm plenty smart enough to realize your arguments are
overhyped, sensationalized, psuedoscientific crap. But wait---it gets
even better. The movie also has mobilized activists, who are seizing on it as
an occasion to spark public discussion about a subject they feel is
getting short shrift from the public and policy-makers alike. ``The Day
After,'' a similarly titled 1983 television movie that dealt with the
aftermath of nuclear war, engendered similar debate.

Hold on to your diapies, babies! It's gonna be a bumpy ride!

Moveon.org, the San Francisco-based liberal advocacy group, is
organizing a town hall meeting to coincide with the movie's New York
City premiere later this month. Former Vice President Al Gore, comedian
and author Al Franken and environmentalist Robert F. Kennedy Jr. are
among those expected to attend.
Oh, good heavens. They're rolling out Al Gore to talk about Global
Warming! Woohoo. What exactly does he know about it? Oh, that's right
he wrote a book about it. He's an expert. (Yeaaah...right) But if Al Gore is an expert, what does that make Al Franken---the Pope?

``To have a major studio release of a movie tackling a serious issue
is a terrific opportunity for Americans to start talking about the
reality of the problem, what can be done about it and the enormous
threat that President Bush is not dealing with,'' said Peter Schurman,
Moveon.org's executive director.

And if I can get my nose any further up the ass of whomever might
give me a job after Kerry tanks, I'll be able to continue fighting for
the cause because the cause is so DAMN important and if you don't agree
with me, well then you're of course you probably work for Halliburton
and drive an SUV and support chopping down the rainforests, you bad,
bad woman, you!

Ah, I hate to point this out to you, but you still have shit on your nose.

Producer Mark Gordon hopes his movie will make people think. He
stressed it wasn't made to suit an agenda, but he clearly reveled in
the stir it's caused.

Oh, fer chrissakes. Go and look at your website and
tell me the movie wasn't made to suit an agenda. If you really believe
that after peeking around, well, there's some land in Florida that you
might be interested in...
I still feel like Don Music. I still want to slam my head against a
piano keyboard. I think I'll go bake some cookies instead. That's
productive at least.

--- Do you remember Don

--- Do you remember Don Music from your childhood? If you watched
Sesame Street, you might remember him---vaguely.
Don was a composer who could never get the words to rhyme. Invariably,
as he became increasingly frustrated, he would start banging his head
against his piano, as if that would solve the problem. I don't know
what exactly they were trying to teach us becuase I can't remember the
moral of his little stories---all I can remember is the head banging
and the frustration that led up to it.
There are many times I feel like Don Music. This would be one of them.
Scientists Embrace Plot for 'Tomorrow'

No one is pretending the forthcoming film ``The Day After Tomorrow''
is anything but implausible: In the $125 million movie, global warming
triggers a cascade of events that practically flash freeze the planet.
It's an abruptness no one believes possible, least of all the
filmmakers behind the 20th Century Fox release. ``It's very
cinematic to choose the worst-case scenario, which we did,'' said
co-screenwriter Jeffrey Nachmanoff.
Nonetheless, scientists are embracing the movie, unusual for those
whose stock in trade is fact.
``My first reaction was, 'Oh my God, this is a disaster because it is
such a distortion of the science. It will certainly create a
backlash,''' said Dan Schrag, a Harvard University paleoclimatologist.
``I have sobered up somewhat, because the
public is probably smart enough to distinguish between Hollywood and
the real world.''

Oh, we're probably
smart enough to distinguish between Hollywood and the real world? Gee
thanks for your overwhelming vote of approval. Could you can wipe the
drool from my cro-magnon chin because you seem like a really nice guy
and all and God only knows I really depend upon people like you to help
me realize what's really important in this world. / sarcasm.
The backlash is comin' boy---it's going to be just as you predicted,
though, because I'm plenty smart enough to realize your arguments are
overhyped, sensationalized, psuedoscientific crap. But wait---it gets
even better. The movie also has mobilized activists, who are seizing on it as
an occasion to spark public discussion about a subject they feel is
getting short shrift from the public and policy-makers alike. ``The Day
After,'' a similarly titled 1983 television movie that dealt with the
aftermath of nuclear war, engendered similar debate.

Hold on to your diapies, babies! It's gonna be a bumpy ride!

Moveon.org, the San Francisco-based liberal advocacy group, is
organizing a town hall meeting to coincide with the movie's New York
City premiere later this month. Former Vice President Al Gore, comedian
and author Al Franken and environmentalist Robert F. Kennedy Jr. are
among those expected to attend.
Oh, good heavens. They're rolling out Al Gore to talk about Global
Warming! Woohoo. What exactly does he know about it? Oh, that's right
he wrote a book about it. He's an expert. (Yeaaah...right) But if Al Gore is an expert, what does that make Al Franken---the Pope?

``To have a major studio release of a movie tackling a serious issue
is a terrific opportunity for Americans to start talking about the
reality of the problem, what can be done about it and the enormous
threat that President Bush is not dealing with,'' said Peter Schurman,
Moveon.org's executive director.

And if I can get my nose any further up the ass of whomever might
give me a job after Kerry tanks, I'll be able to continue fighting for
the cause because the cause is so DAMN important and if you don't agree
with me, well then you're of course you probably work for Halliburton
and drive an SUV and support chopping down the rainforests, you bad,
bad woman, you!

Ah, I hate to point this out to you, but you still have shit on your nose.

Producer Mark Gordon hopes his movie will make people think. He
stressed it wasn't made to suit an agenda, but he clearly reveled in
the stir it's caused.

Oh, fer chrissakes. Go and look at your website and
tell me the movie wasn't made to suit an agenda. If you really believe
that after peeking around, well, there's some land in Florida that you
might be interested in...
I still feel like Don Music. I still want to slam my head against a
piano keyboard. I think I'll go bake some cookies instead. That's
productive at least.

Reuters scores an email interview

Reuters scores an email interview with Rance.

Rance loves shrimp and logic puzzles. He's tolerant of paparazzi but tough on gossips. He's bored by Shakespeare and the summer blockbuster "Troy" but admires Joan Rivers. And through it all he's amused by life in Los Angeles -- the way a birthday party in the suburbs can turn into an unexpected meeting with a dominatrix and a late-night nude dip in the Chateau Marmont pool can be interrupted by an SUV crash on Sunset Boulevard. "It is tough in L.," Rance says of the city. "The good news is there are Fatburgers." Though he has received two "serious" proposals from people in publishing to turn his blog into a book, Rance said he has not yet pursued that idea, content for now to communicate to the outside world through the Internet. "With no disrespect intended, media in general seldom if ever permits a person, be he actor or President, to present himself the way he would like -- and certainly not to the degree a blog does," Rance said. "Still, there's a megabyte or two's worth of irony in my situation," he said.

If it's Owen I'll be happy. It sounds like Owen. Don't ask me what the hell Owen sounds
like, but it seems a plausible notion that it would indeed be Owen. Gut
feeling. He's got that whole "I'm somewhat perplexed by life thing"
going on that Carrey, Clooney, and Affleck just don't have. He sees the
other side of life. Whereas they've got the world on a string and
there's all the depth of a wading pool with those three. But Owen? I
dunno. It makes sense somehow. He did co-write Rushmore and The Royal Tenenbaums.
(And of course obligtory grudge moment against the Academy for dissing
Bill Murray's performance in Rushmore. GRRRR.)
However, just in case I'm wrong and it indeed turns out to be Ben
Affleck, I will have to scrub my fingers with lye for typing words that
promoted a blog of his. It's not really an earth shattering deal one
way or another for me. It's just a puzzle to be solved. An interesting
story. A potential hoax. Something to wonder about in odd moments.

Reuters scores an email interview

Reuters scores an email interview with Rance.

Rance loves shrimp and logic puzzles. He's tolerant of paparazzi but tough on gossips. He's bored by Shakespeare and the summer blockbuster "Troy" but admires Joan Rivers. And through it all he's amused by life in Los Angeles -- the way a birthday party in the suburbs can turn into an unexpected meeting with a dominatrix and a late-night nude dip in the Chateau Marmont pool can be interrupted by an SUV crash on Sunset Boulevard. "It is tough in L.," Rance says of the city. "The good news is there are Fatburgers." Though he has received two "serious" proposals from people in publishing to turn his blog into a book, Rance said he has not yet pursued that idea, content for now to communicate to the outside world through the Internet. "With no disrespect intended, media in general seldom if ever permits a person, be he actor or President, to present himself the way he would like -- and certainly not to the degree a blog does," Rance said. "Still, there's a megabyte or two's worth of irony in my situation," he said.

If it's Owen I'll be happy. It sounds like Owen. Don't ask me what the hell Owen sounds
like, but it seems a plausible notion that it would indeed be Owen. Gut
feeling. He's got that whole "I'm somewhat perplexed by life thing"
going on that Carrey, Clooney, and Affleck just don't have. He sees the
other side of life. Whereas they've got the world on a string and
there's all the depth of a wading pool with those three. But Owen? I
dunno. It makes sense somehow. He did co-write Rushmore and The Royal Tenenbaums.
(And of course obligtory grudge moment against the Academy for dissing
Bill Murray's performance in Rushmore. GRRRR.)
However, just in case I'm wrong and it indeed turns out to be Ben
Affleck, I will have to scrub my fingers with lye for typing words that
promoted a blog of his. It's not really an earth shattering deal one
way or another for me. It's just a puzzle to be solved. An interesting
story. A potential hoax. Something to wonder about in odd moments.

--- Just when you think

--- Just when you think you can't be possibly be offended any further;
that the idiocy of certain people really can numb your mind---Monty
Hall shows off his dentures and informs you in his cheesy voice that
has something just for you behind door number three.

You become disheartened that God would allow such a flaming asshole to walk the Earth. But you surf further and read something like this and know that things will probably turn out just fine because you were able to laugh about it.

And then you tell your husband about it and he adds to your feeling of impending well being by saying this:

"Ted Rall has all the intelligence of my long since discarded foreskin."

--- Just when you think

--- Just when you think you can't be possibly be offended any further;
that the idiocy of certain people really can numb your mind---Monty
Hall shows off his dentures and informs you in his cheesy voice that
has something just for you behind door number three.

You become disheartened that God would allow such a flaming asshole to walk the Earth. But you surf further and read something like this and know that things will probably turn out just fine because you were able to laugh about it.

And then you tell your husband about it and he adds to your feeling of impending well being by saying this:

"Ted Rall has all the intelligence of my long since discarded foreskin."

This certainly isn't welcome news.

This certainly isn't welcome news.

A few days after Libya's historic pledge on Dec. 19 to abandon the quest for nuclear weapons, Libyan intelligence officials met with visiting U.S. diplomats to deliver some unsettling news: A sizable quantity of nuclear equipment purchased by Libya appeared to be missing. The equipment -- sensitive components of machines used to enrich uranium -- had been ordered from black-market suppliers months earlier and was now long overdue, the Libyans disclosed. According to U.S. officials present at the meeting, the Libyans wanted to prepare the Americans for the possibility that more illicit nuclear shipments could suddenly appear on Tripoli's docks. "They clearly expected more things to turn up," said one of the U.S. participants. Four months later, the wait continues. Despite a search that has spanned the globe, U.S. and international investigators are still struggling to account for a number of sensitive parts Libya ordered for construction of its uranium enrichment plant -- parts that potentially could be used by other countries or groups seeking nuclear weapons. The whereabouts of the parts is one of several mysteries that has preoccupied officials involved in the biggest investigation of nuclear smuggling in history -- the probe into the black-market network led by former Pakistani nuclear scientist Abdul Qadeer Khan. U.S. and U.N. investigators have identified many of the network's operatives and methods and recovered tens of thousands of parts in a dragnet that has reached from Southeast Asia to the Middle East and Europe. Yet, the investigators believe that some of the suppliers to the network have not yet been identified -- and perhaps some customers, as well. "We haven't gotten to the bottom of the story," acknowledged one senior Bush administration official involved in the investigation. "We continue to look for, and expect to make, new discoveries. We don't think the story is fully revealed yet."

I can't believe the Libyans actually thought they'd turn up, like a J.Crew sweater that's been backordered.

Sheesh.

This certainly isn't welcome news.

This certainly isn't welcome news.

A few days after Libya's historic pledge on Dec. 19 to abandon the quest for nuclear weapons, Libyan intelligence officials met with visiting U.S. diplomats to deliver some unsettling news: A sizable quantity of nuclear equipment purchased by Libya appeared to be missing. The equipment -- sensitive components of machines used to enrich uranium -- had been ordered from black-market suppliers months earlier and was now long overdue, the Libyans disclosed. According to U.S. officials present at the meeting, the Libyans wanted to prepare the Americans for the possibility that more illicit nuclear shipments could suddenly appear on Tripoli's docks. "They clearly expected more things to turn up," said one of the U.S. participants. Four months later, the wait continues. Despite a search that has spanned the globe, U.S. and international investigators are still struggling to account for a number of sensitive parts Libya ordered for construction of its uranium enrichment plant -- parts that potentially could be used by other countries or groups seeking nuclear weapons. The whereabouts of the parts is one of several mysteries that has preoccupied officials involved in the biggest investigation of nuclear smuggling in history -- the probe into the black-market network led by former Pakistani nuclear scientist Abdul Qadeer Khan. U.S. and U.N. investigators have identified many of the network's operatives and methods and recovered tens of thousands of parts in a dragnet that has reached from Southeast Asia to the Middle East and Europe. Yet, the investigators believe that some of the suppliers to the network have not yet been identified -- and perhaps some customers, as well. "We haven't gotten to the bottom of the story," acknowledged one senior Bush administration official involved in the investigation. "We continue to look for, and expect to make, new discoveries. We don't think the story is fully revealed yet."

I can't believe the Libyans actually thought they'd turn up, like a J.Crew sweater that's been backordered.

Sheesh.

--- It's Open Mic Night

--- It's Open Mic Night over at A Small Victory.

Subject matter: five things you should be ashamed of, but aren't. You can read my entry here and maybe learn a few new things about me. Because it's all about me. Me me me me...me.

And now maybe I'll see how this trackback thing is supposed to work. Hmmmm.

UPDATE: Hot damn! It worked! On the third try, but it worked!
Woohoo! I rule...for the next twenty-five seconds until I screw
something up.

--- It's Open Mic Night

--- It's Open Mic Night over at A Small Victory.

Subject matter: five things you should be ashamed of, but aren't. You can read my entry here and maybe learn a few new things about me. Because it's all about me. Me me me me...me.

And now maybe I'll see how this trackback thing is supposed to work. Hmmmm.

UPDATE: Hot damn! It worked! On the third try, but it worked!
Woohoo! I rule...for the next twenty-five seconds until I screw
something up.

I'm not a big follower

I'm not a big follower of pro basketball, but hey, it seems it might be
the Wolves' year. They actually made it out of the first round of the
playoffs. They just wrapped up the second round
and are going up against the Lakers on Friday night for the Western
Conference Championship.
Well Done.
Although, it would have made my life easier come Friday night if you
guys had lost. No offense or anything, but I have a party to go in
downtown that night. Thaaaaaaanks. Traffic is going to suck.

I'm not a big follower

I'm not a big follower of pro basketball, but hey, it seems it might be
the Wolves' year. They actually made it out of the first round of the
playoffs. They just wrapped up the second round
and are going up against the Lakers on Friday night for the Western
Conference Championship.
Well Done.
Although, it would have made my life easier come Friday night if you
guys had lost. No offense or anything, but I have a party to go in
downtown that night. Thaaaaaaanks. Traffic is going to suck.

Courtesy of Gawker {...}While I

Courtesy of Gawker

{...}While I have a high degree of personal respect for PHJW as a law firm, and I have made wonderful friendships during my time here, I am no longer comfortable working for a group largely populated by gossips, backstabbers and Napoleonic personalities. In fact, I dare say that I would rather be dressed up like a pinata and beaten than remain with this group any longer. I wish you continued success in your goals to turn vibrant, productive, dedicated associates into an aimless, shambling group of dry, lifeless husks. May the smoke from any bridges I burn today be seen far and wide.

Damn.

I have nothing but admiration for this anonymous soon-to-be trophy husband. He actually did what we've all wished we'd
done when we'd quit a job we hated.
Bravo.
I hope he's not huddled up in a corner, wrapped in blankie, smoking
endless cigarettes and drinking vodka straight from the bottle,
wondering what the hell did he have to go and do that for? now that his girlfriend broke up with him for a lack of ambition and an inability to play politics.

Because girlfriend from one corporate wife to another, that's what it's all about, bitch. You've just declared yourself unsuitable for the life you've chosen.

But, damn, let those bridges keep on smoldering. We're rooting for you.

Courtesy of Gawker {...}While I

Courtesy of Gawker

{...}While I have a high degree of personal respect for PHJW as a law firm, and I have made wonderful friendships during my time here, I am no longer comfortable working for a group largely populated by gossips, backstabbers and Napoleonic personalities. In fact, I dare say that I would rather be dressed up like a pinata and beaten than remain with this group any longer. I wish you continued success in your goals to turn vibrant, productive, dedicated associates into an aimless, shambling group of dry, lifeless husks. May the smoke from any bridges I burn today be seen far and wide.

Damn.

I have nothing but admiration for this anonymous soon-to-be trophy husband. He actually did what we've all wished we'd
done when we'd quit a job we hated.
Bravo.
I hope he's not huddled up in a corner, wrapped in blankie, smoking
endless cigarettes and drinking vodka straight from the bottle,
wondering what the hell did he have to go and do that for? now that his girlfriend broke up with him for a lack of ambition and an inability to play politics.

Because girlfriend from one corporate wife to another, that's what it's all about, bitch. You've just declared yourself unsuitable for the life you've chosen.

But, damn, let those bridges keep on smoldering. We're rooting for you.

--- Courtesy o' the Father

--- Courtesy o' the Father in Law.
This is a letter from Ray Reynolds, a medic in the Iowa Army
National Guard, serving in Iraq:
As I head off to Baghdad for the final weeks of my stay in Iraq, I
wanted to say thanks to all of you who did not believe the media. They
have done a very poor job of covering everything that has happened. I
am sorry that I have not been able to visit all of you during my
two-week leave back home. And just so you can rest at night knowing
something is happening in Iraq
that is noteworthy, I thought I would pass this on to you. This is the
list of things I KNOW have happened in Iraq recently: (Please share it
with your friends and compare it to the version that your paper is
producing.)
* Over 400,000 kids have up-to-date immunizations.
* School attendance is up 80% from levels before the war.
* Over 1,500 schools have been renovated and rid of the weapons stored
there so education can occur.
* The port of Uhm Qasar was renovated so grain can be off-loaded from
ships faster.
* The country had its first 2 billion barrel export of oil in August.
* Over 4.5 million people have clean drinking water for the first time
ever in Iraq.
* The country now receives 2 times the electrical power it did before
the war.
* 100% of the hospitals are open and fully staffed, compared to 35%
before the war.
* Elections are taking place in every major city, and city councils are
in place.
* Sewer and water lines are installed in every major city.
* Over 60,000 police are patrolling the streets.
* Over 100,000 Iraqi civil defense police are securing the country.
* Over 80,000 Iraqi soldiers are patrolling the streets side by side
with US soldiers.
* Over 400,000 people have telephones for the first time ever.
* Students are taught field sanitation and hand washing techniques to
prevent the spread of germs.
* An interim constitution has been signed.
* Girls are allowed to attend school.
* Textbooks that don't mention Saddam are in the schools for the first
time in 30 years.
Don't believe for one second that these people do not want us there. I
have met many, many people from Iraq that want us there, and in a bad
way. They say they will never see the freedoms we talk about but they
hope their children will. We are doing a good job in Iraq and I
challenge anyone, anywhere to dispute me on these facts. So If you
happen to run into John Kerry, be sure to send him to Denison, Iowa.
This soldier will set him straight. If you are like me and very
disgusted with how this period of rebuilding has been portrayed, email
this to a friend and let them know there are good things happening.
Ray Reynolds, SFC
Iowa Army National Guard
234th Signal Battalion

--- Courtesy o' the Father

--- Courtesy o' the Father in Law.
This is a letter from Ray Reynolds, a medic in the Iowa Army
National Guard, serving in Iraq:
As I head off to Baghdad for the final weeks of my stay in Iraq, I
wanted to say thanks to all of you who did not believe the media. They
have done a very poor job of covering everything that has happened. I
am sorry that I have not been able to visit all of you during my
two-week leave back home. And just so you can rest at night knowing
something is happening in Iraq
that is noteworthy, I thought I would pass this on to you. This is the
list of things I KNOW have happened in Iraq recently: (Please share it
with your friends and compare it to the version that your paper is
producing.)
* Over 400,000 kids have up-to-date immunizations.
* School attendance is up 80% from levels before the war.
* Over 1,500 schools have been renovated and rid of the weapons stored
there so education can occur.
* The port of Uhm Qasar was renovated so grain can be off-loaded from
ships faster.
* The country had its first 2 billion barrel export of oil in August.
* Over 4.5 million people have clean drinking water for the first time
ever in Iraq.
* The country now receives 2 times the electrical power it did before
the war.
* 100% of the hospitals are open and fully staffed, compared to 35%
before the war.
* Elections are taking place in every major city, and city councils are
in place.
* Sewer and water lines are installed in every major city.
* Over 60,000 police are patrolling the streets.
* Over 100,000 Iraqi civil defense police are securing the country.
* Over 80,000 Iraqi soldiers are patrolling the streets side by side
with US soldiers.
* Over 400,000 people have telephones for the first time ever.
* Students are taught field sanitation and hand washing techniques to
prevent the spread of germs.
* An interim constitution has been signed.
* Girls are allowed to attend school.
* Textbooks that don't mention Saddam are in the schools for the first
time in 30 years.
Don't believe for one second that these people do not want us there. I
have met many, many people from Iraq that want us there, and in a bad
way. They say they will never see the freedoms we talk about but they
hope their children will. We are doing a good job in Iraq and I
challenge anyone, anywhere to dispute me on these facts. So If you
happen to run into John Kerry, be sure to send him to Denison, Iowa.
This soldier will set him straight. If you are like me and very
disgusted with how this period of rebuilding has been portrayed, email
this to a friend and let them know there are good things happening.
Ray Reynolds, SFC
Iowa Army National Guard
234th Signal Battalion

--- Kofi In a Nutshell

--- Kofi In a Nutshell

Now, despite revelations about bribery in the UN's oil-for-food
program for Iraq, the world is clamouring to entrust Annan with the
future of more than 20 million Iraqis who survived Saddam Hussein
dictatorship. That is because of who Annan is and what the UN has
become: an institution in which no shortcoming, it seems, goes
unrewarded.

Go read the whole thing.

(Hat tip: Instapundy)

--- Kofi In a Nutshell

--- Kofi In a Nutshell

Now, despite revelations about bribery in the UN's oil-for-food
program for Iraq, the world is clamouring to entrust Annan with the
future of more than 20 million Iraqis who survived Saddam Hussein
dictatorship. That is because of who Annan is and what the UN has
become: an institution in which no shortcoming, it seems, goes
unrewarded.

Go read the whole thing.

(Hat tip: Instapundy)

VATICAN CITY : The abuse

VATICAN CITY : The abuse of Iraqi prisoners by US soldiers is a scandal offensive to God himself, the Vatican said, in its first public comment. "Violence against people offends God himself, who made humans in his own image," the Vatican's foreign minister, Archbishop Giovanni Lajolo, said in a pre-recorded television interview due to be broadcast later on Friday...

*

VATICAN CITY : The abuse

VATICAN CITY : The abuse of Iraqi prisoners by US soldiers is a scandal offensive to God himself, the Vatican said, in its first public comment. "Violence against people offends God himself, who made humans in his own image," the Vatican's foreign minister, Archbishop Giovanni Lajolo, said in a pre-recorded television interview due to be broadcast later on Friday...

*

Apparently, the Cake Eater Chronicles

Apparently, the Cake Eater Chronicles is in the top five results for
Google searches on Muntada al-Ansar, which is the website where the
Nick Berg video originally aired. Why this has happened, is beyond me.
I don't do algorithms. Never got that far in high school math. If
you're one of these people, welcome to Cake Eater Land. I'm assuming
you're looking for the video so please to the Northeast Intelligence Network.
Scroll down and you will find a link to the video.
(Apologies to Northeast Intelligence Network. I emailed, but received
no response and I really wanted to get this post up. Please hit the
link on the side and email me if you would like it removed.)
Their servers apparently have been slammed, so it will take some time
to download. And, if possible, you should hit their tipjar to defray
some of the bandwidth costs they're incurring to provide this very
valuable service. A service, I will add, that should have been provided
by the mainstream media but to date has not been. Show your
appreciation in an appropriate way.

Apparently, the Cake Eater Chronicles

Apparently, the Cake Eater Chronicles is in the top five results for
Google searches on Muntada al-Ansar, which is the website where the
Nick Berg video originally aired. Why this has happened, is beyond me.
I don't do algorithms. Never got that far in high school math. If
you're one of these people, welcome to Cake Eater Land. I'm assuming
you're looking for the video so please to the Northeast Intelligence Network.
Scroll down and you will find a link to the video.
(Apologies to Northeast Intelligence Network. I emailed, but received
no response and I really wanted to get this post up. Please hit the
link on the side and email me if you would like it removed.)
Their servers apparently have been slammed, so it will take some time
to download. And, if possible, you should hit their tipjar to defray
some of the bandwidth costs they're incurring to provide this very
valuable service. A service, I will add, that should have been provided
by the mainstream media but to date has not been. Show your
appreciation in an appropriate way.

...It's only basketball, after all.

...It's only basketball, after all.

Peeler's punch happened. It's over. Bring on Game 7. That, in Garnett's case, provides a perfect opportunity to dig deep in his bag of metaphors. "This is it, all the marbles," he said. "I'm sitting in the house loading up the pump, I'm loading up the Uzis, I've got a couple of M-16s, couple of [guns] with some silencers on them, couple of grenades, got a missile launcher. I'm ready for war."

Yeesh. And people said Barkley was bad about shooting his mouth off. (Pun intended.)

...It's only basketball, after all.

...It's only basketball, after all.

Peeler's punch happened. It's over. Bring on Game 7. That, in Garnett's case, provides a perfect opportunity to dig deep in his bag of metaphors. "This is it, all the marbles," he said. "I'm sitting in the house loading up the pump, I'm loading up the Uzis, I've got a couple of M-16s, couple of [guns] with some silencers on them, couple of grenades, got a missile launcher. I'm ready for war."

Yeesh. And people said Barkley was bad about shooting his mouth off. (Pun intended.)

"WHERE'S MY METAMUCIL, GOSHDARNIT!

"WHERE'S MY METAMUCIL, GOSHDARNIT! I'M SO CONSTIPATED THAT SHIT IS ABOUT TO FLY OUT OF MY EARS---AND IT'S PAINFUL!

"WHERE'S MY METAMUCIL, GOSHDARNIT!

"WHERE'S MY METAMUCIL, GOSHDARNIT! I'M SO CONSTIPATED THAT SHIT IS ABOUT TO FLY OUT OF MY EARS---AND IT'S PAINFUL!

Christ. ST. LOUIS - Energizer

Christ.

ST. LOUIS - Energizer Holdings Inc. is appealing to the rock 'n' roll sensibilities of baby boomers by enlisting 1980s rocker Pat Benatar (news) to boost sales of hearing-aid batteries. "Our generation has helped shape American culture, especially since we're the first to be raised on rock 'n' roll," Benatar says in a brochure for Energizer's new marketing campaign, "It's Hip to Hear." "From Aerosmith to the Rolling Stones, our music defines us, but all those years of rockin' are beginning to take a toll," she says.

Yeah, and Social Security and Medicare aren't going to be around by the time I hit the mandatory retirement age (which will be roughly around the same time that Methuselah cacked) because said boomers are going to suck those programs dry. Not like I mind all that much. I've got other plans, but damn. Must we be subjected to years of advertising dedicated to easing their aging pains whilst paying for it simultaneously?

Christ. ST. LOUIS - Energizer

Christ.

ST. LOUIS - Energizer Holdings Inc. is appealing to the rock 'n' roll sensibilities of baby boomers by enlisting 1980s rocker Pat Benatar (news) to boost sales of hearing-aid batteries. "Our generation has helped shape American culture, especially since we're the first to be raised on rock 'n' roll," Benatar says in a brochure for Energizer's new marketing campaign, "It's Hip to Hear." "From Aerosmith to the Rolling Stones, our music defines us, but all those years of rockin' are beginning to take a toll," she says.

Yeah, and Social Security and Medicare aren't going to be around by the time I hit the mandatory retirement age (which will be roughly around the same time that Methuselah cacked) because said boomers are going to suck those programs dry. Not like I mind all that much. I've got other plans, but damn. Must we be subjected to years of advertising dedicated to easing their aging pains whilst paying for it simultaneously?

Immanuel Kant was a real

Immanuel Kant was a real pissant Who was very rarely stable. Heidegger, Heidegger was a boozy beggar Who could think you under the table. David Hume could out-consume Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel, And Wittgenstein was a beery swine Who was just as schloshed as Schlegel.

There's nothing Nietzche couldn't teach ya
'Bout the raising of the wrist.
Socrates, himself, was permanently pissed.

John Stuart Mill, of his own free will,
On half a pint of shandy was particularly ill.
Plato, they say, could stick it away--
Half a crate of whisky every day.
Aristotle, Aristotle was a bugger for the bottle.
Hobbes was fond of his dram,
And René Descartes was a drunken fart.
'I drink, therefore I am.'

Yes, Socrates, himself, is particularly missed,
A lovely little thinker,
But a bugger when he's pissed

--- Monty Python, The Philosopher's Drinking Song
And that my friends is about all the levity you will get from me this
evening.
It's a handy little tool, though, for trying to remember the core
teachings of a few philosophers, don't you think? If I can read Leviathan
over a weekend, enter class and have my political theory professor sum
up that massive and incredibly boring book in six words---"Life is
nasty, brutish and short"---and then move on to Rosseau without even
discussing it, I can most assuredly refer you to a drinking song to
remind you what Descartes core message was. Rene Descartes was a drunken fart, I drink therefore I am.

Cogito Ergo Sum. I think therefore I am. Descartes was part of
that great post-Renaissance philosophical movement in the Baroque Era
in Europe. He was part of that group of men, emboldened by the
intellectual break from the Church due to the Reformation, yet still
very religious, who wanted to figure out how the world worked. That
included human thought. To quote the link above:

{...}The two most widely known of Descartes'
philosophical ideas are those of a method of hyperbolic doubt, and the
argument that, though he may doubt, he cannot doubt that he exists. The
first of these comprises a key aspect of Descartes' philosophical
method. As noted above, he refused to accept the authority of previous
philosophers - but he also refused to accept the obviousness of his own
senses. In the search for a foundation for philosophy, whatever could
be doubted must be rejected. He resolves to trust only that which is
clearly and distinctly seen to be beyond any doubt. In this manner,
Descartes peels away the layers of beliefs and opinions that clouded
his view of the truth. But, very little remains, only the simple fact
of doubting itself, and the inescapable inference that something exists
doubting, namely Descartes himself. His next task is to reconstruct our
knowledge piece by piece, such that at no stage is the possibility of
doubt allowed to creep back in. In this manner, Descartes proves that
he himself must have the basic characteristic of thinking, and that
this thinking thing (mind) is quite distinct from his body; the
existence of a God; the existence and nature of the external world; and
so on. {...}

So, we think therefore we are. Descartes did the work for us. He's
stripped everything down and then, much like a Marine drill sergeant,
built it back up again, using doubt as his ally. Go here,
brace yourself, then scroll down and view the barbarity.
What about this act or barbarism makes you think that the members of
this band of merry men have done the same? Have they doubted? Have they
wondered about how the world works? Have they asked the questions? Have
they realized that their version of God exists, but that they cannot
make assertions of His will because he is separate from them, and they
are separate from Him? I would think that the resounding answer would
be no. They haven't done the work. They've never doubted. They don't
see the reason to because their God has everything they could ever
possibly want. They're uneducated barbarians who have never seen the
light of reason, let alone contemplated doubting in their one true
faith or the world that surrounds them.
I think therefore I am. How much thought, I wonder, went into beheading
an innocent man while the participants screamed "Allahu Akbar!" ?

Immanuel Kant was a real

Immanuel Kant was a real pissant Who was very rarely stable. Heidegger, Heidegger was a boozy beggar Who could think you under the table. David Hume could out-consume Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel, And Wittgenstein was a beery swine Who was just as schloshed as Schlegel.

There's nothing Nietzche couldn't teach ya
'Bout the raising of the wrist.
Socrates, himself, was permanently pissed.

John Stuart Mill, of his own free will,
On half a pint of shandy was particularly ill.
Plato, they say, could stick it away--
Half a crate of whisky every day.
Aristotle, Aristotle was a bugger for the bottle.
Hobbes was fond of his dram,
And René Descartes was a drunken fart.
'I drink, therefore I am.'

Yes, Socrates, himself, is particularly missed,
A lovely little thinker,
But a bugger when he's pissed

--- Monty Python, The Philosopher's Drinking Song
And that my friends is about all the levity you will get from me this
evening.
It's a handy little tool, though, for trying to remember the core
teachings of a few philosophers, don't you think? If I can read Leviathan
over a weekend, enter class and have my political theory professor sum
up that massive and incredibly boring book in six words---"Life is
nasty, brutish and short"---and then move on to Rosseau without even
discussing it, I can most assuredly refer you to a drinking song to
remind you what Descartes core message was. Rene Descartes was a drunken fart, I drink therefore I am.

Cogito Ergo Sum. I think therefore I am. Descartes was part of
that great post-Renaissance philosophical movement in the Baroque Era
in Europe. He was part of that group of men, emboldened by the
intellectual break from the Church due to the Reformation, yet still
very religious, who wanted to figure out how the world worked. That
included human thought. To quote the link above:

{...}The two most widely known of Descartes'
philosophical ideas are those of a method of hyperbolic doubt, and the
argument that, though he may doubt, he cannot doubt that he exists. The
first of these comprises a key aspect of Descartes' philosophical
method. As noted above, he refused to accept the authority of previous
philosophers - but he also refused to accept the obviousness of his own
senses. In the search for a foundation for philosophy, whatever could
be doubted must be rejected. He resolves to trust only that which is
clearly and distinctly seen to be beyond any doubt. In this manner,
Descartes peels away the layers of beliefs and opinions that clouded
his view of the truth. But, very little remains, only the simple fact
of doubting itself, and the inescapable inference that something exists
doubting, namely Descartes himself. His next task is to reconstruct our
knowledge piece by piece, such that at no stage is the possibility of
doubt allowed to creep back in. In this manner, Descartes proves that
he himself must have the basic characteristic of thinking, and that
this thinking thing (mind) is quite distinct from his body; the
existence of a God; the existence and nature of the external world; and
so on. {...}

So, we think therefore we are. Descartes did the work for us. He's
stripped everything down and then, much like a Marine drill sergeant,
built it back up again, using doubt as his ally. Go here,
brace yourself, then scroll down and view the barbarity.
What about this act or barbarism makes you think that the members of
this band of merry men have done the same? Have they doubted? Have they
wondered about how the world works? Have they asked the questions? Have
they realized that their version of God exists, but that they cannot
make assertions of His will because he is separate from them, and they
are separate from Him? I would think that the resounding answer would
be no. They haven't done the work. They've never doubted. They don't
see the reason to because their God has everything they could ever
possibly want. They're uneducated barbarians who have never seen the
light of reason, let alone contemplated doubting in their one true
faith or the world that surrounds them.
I think therefore I am. How much thought, I wonder, went into beheading
an innocent man while the participants screamed "Allahu Akbar!" ?

--- And this woman still

--- And this woman still has custody of her child?

Why?

--- And this woman still

--- And this woman still has custody of her child?

Why?

To the person who keeps

To the person who keeps finding their way here whilst looking for a translation for 'de recta non tolerandum sunt,' it means NO ASSHOLES WILL BE TOLERATED.

That, of course, is a loose translation. In Latin 'Recta' actually means this. This is the motto the Python Lads and if you look carefully at the picture,
you can clearly get the gist of what they were going after. If the
Pythons were looking for a literal translation, they would have gone
for something like "intestinum."
(Realize that not everything in our modern world has a Latin name
simply because most of the stuff in our modern world---like
rectums---weren't thought to exist back then. Back then your intestine
covered everything from your gullet to your bum.) But intestinum a. is
a stupid word and b. doesn't make any sense and isn't easy to get the
gist of if you're not fluent in Latin, right? You probably sussed out
"tolerandum" as the Latin word for "tolerate" and you knew "non"
probably meant that something would not be tolerated, but what? If they
used intestinum, you'd be thinking, "Intestines will not be tolerated?"
What the hell does that mean? Here's the Etymology Yellow Brick Road:
recta=rectum=lower part of your intestine=assholes. That's what
wouldn't be tolerated. There is no Latin word for assholes. They
improvised.
I like Monty Python, and I laughed when I read it, soooo, I took their
motto for my own. I'm a plagiarist, I know, but hell, this is the Internet.
Did you honestly expect any better?
There's an email link over on the left hand side-- next time click on
it and ASK.

To the person who keeps

To the person who keeps finding their way here whilst looking for a translation for 'de recta non tolerandum sunt,' it means NO ASSHOLES WILL BE TOLERATED.

That, of course, is a loose translation. In Latin 'Recta' actually means this. This is the motto the Python Lads and if you look carefully at the picture,
you can clearly get the gist of what they were going after. If the
Pythons were looking for a literal translation, they would have gone
for something like "intestinum."
(Realize that not everything in our modern world has a Latin name
simply because most of the stuff in our modern world---like
rectums---weren't thought to exist back then. Back then your intestine
covered everything from your gullet to your bum.) But intestinum a. is
a stupid word and b. doesn't make any sense and isn't easy to get the
gist of if you're not fluent in Latin, right? You probably sussed out
"tolerandum" as the Latin word for "tolerate" and you knew "non"
probably meant that something would not be tolerated, but what? If they
used intestinum, you'd be thinking, "Intestines will not be tolerated?"
What the hell does that mean? Here's the Etymology Yellow Brick Road:
recta=rectum=lower part of your intestine=assholes. That's what
wouldn't be tolerated. There is no Latin word for assholes. They
improvised.
I like Monty Python, and I laughed when I read it, soooo, I took their
motto for my own. I'm a plagiarist, I know, but hell, this is the Internet.
Did you honestly expect any better?
There's an email link over on the left hand side-- next time click on
it and ASK.

The full transcript can be

The full transcript can be found here.

My favorite bit:

Our enemies in Iraq are good at filling hospitals, but they don't build any. They can incite men to murder and suicide, but they cannot inspire men to live in hope and add to the progress of their country. The terrorists only influence is violence and their only agenda is death. Our agenda, in contrast, is freedom and independence, security and prosperity for the Iraqi people.

{Emphasis mine}

Cringe-inducing bit that I'm sure the media will be ALL over:

A new Iraq will also need a humane, well-supervised prison system. Under the dictator, prisons like Abu Ghraib were symbols of death and torture. That same prison became a symbol of disgraceful conduct by a few American troops who dishonored our country and disregarded our values. America will fund the construction of a modern maximum security prison. When that prison is completed, detainees at Abu Ghraib will be relocated. Then with the approval of the Iraqi government, we will demolish the Abu Ghraib Prison as a fitting symbol of Iraq's new beginning.

Bush said "Abu Ghraib" three times and used three different pronounciations. He only got it right on the last time---barely. As the husband commented: "That's positively Freudian." I agree. Overall, it was a good speech that outlined the plan quite clearly. It's lacking in specifics, but those specifics, like the planned handover and the new Iraqi leadership, have yet to be determined. They're coming down to the wire, of course, but it would be foolhardy for Bush to line his ducks up, announce them to the public only to have them change. And with that, I bid you a'dieu for the evening.

The full transcript can be

The full transcript can be found here.

My favorite bit:

Our enemies in Iraq are good at filling hospitals, but they don't build any. They can incite men to murder and suicide, but they cannot inspire men to live in hope and add to the progress of their country. The terrorists only influence is violence and their only agenda is death. Our agenda, in contrast, is freedom and independence, security and prosperity for the Iraqi people.

{Emphasis mine}

Cringe-inducing bit that I'm sure the media will be ALL over:

A new Iraq will also need a humane, well-supervised prison system. Under the dictator, prisons like Abu Ghraib were symbols of death and torture. That same prison became a symbol of disgraceful conduct by a few American troops who dishonored our country and disregarded our values. America will fund the construction of a modern maximum security prison. When that prison is completed, detainees at Abu Ghraib will be relocated. Then with the approval of the Iraqi government, we will demolish the Abu Ghraib Prison as a fitting symbol of Iraq's new beginning.

Bush said "Abu Ghraib" three times and used three different pronounciations. He only got it right on the last time---barely. As the husband commented: "That's positively Freudian." I agree. Overall, it was a good speech that outlined the plan quite clearly. It's lacking in specifics, but those specifics, like the planned handover and the new Iraqi leadership, have yet to be determined. They're coming down to the wire, of course, but it would be foolhardy for Bush to line his ducks up, announce them to the public only to have them change. And with that, I bid you a'dieu for the evening.

Hmmph. I know. It sounds

Hmmph.
I know. It sounds like I'm ticked. Well, I was. Here I was completely
adept at futzing around with this thing---and it had taken me months to
get to a competent level---and they go and change everything. Well,
FINE! Go and change everything, why don't you? Fiddle with the
templates and all that! See if I care! {slams door}
But, the thing is, now that I've looked around a wee bit, well, much
like a spouse on the erroneous end of an argument, I've decided I like
some of the changes. They've now enabled comments, so I don't have to
have this Haloscan stuff anymore (far be it from me to criticize a free
service, but, dudes, it's about friggin' time!). They also have regular
permalinks available for every post! Woohoo. Hit the little # sign next
to my name at the end of this post and voila!
that specific post will appear on a fresh page. Maybe someone will
finally link me as a result. They also have a boatload of new
templates, so we'll have to see if I get rid of this hideous orange and
red concotion and pick something different. Still, there are some
drawbacks. There's no trackback, so I'll probably keep that feature
from Haloscan if that's possible. I don't think I'll be able to ban
anyone if they leave a nasty comment. There's no 'main' link, unless I
add one---somehow. And, yes, it's still
a Blogger blog. But it's free and until the server issue is resolved,
there's no sense in moving over to a different software package. I'm
still scared of Moveable Type. I'm breaking out in hives just thinking
about switching over. Ugh. Anyway, expect some changes over the next
little while. I'll try to keep the upheaval to a minimum.

Hmmph. I know. It sounds

Hmmph.
I know. It sounds like I'm ticked. Well, I was. Here I was completely
adept at futzing around with this thing---and it had taken me months to
get to a competent level---and they go and change everything. Well,
FINE! Go and change everything, why don't you? Fiddle with the
templates and all that! See if I care! {slams door}
But, the thing is, now that I've looked around a wee bit, well, much
like a spouse on the erroneous end of an argument, I've decided I like
some of the changes. They've now enabled comments, so I don't have to
have this Haloscan stuff anymore (far be it from me to criticize a free
service, but, dudes, it's about friggin' time!). They also have regular
permalinks available for every post! Woohoo. Hit the little # sign next
to my name at the end of this post and voila!
that specific post will appear on a fresh page. Maybe someone will
finally link me as a result. They also have a boatload of new
templates, so we'll have to see if I get rid of this hideous orange and
red concotion and pick something different. Still, there are some
drawbacks. There's no trackback, so I'll probably keep that feature
from Haloscan if that's possible. I don't think I'll be able to ban
anyone if they leave a nasty comment. There's no 'main' link, unless I
add one---somehow. And, yes, it's still
a Blogger blog. But it's free and until the server issue is resolved,
there's no sense in moving over to a different software package. I'm
still scared of Moveable Type. I'm breaking out in hives just thinking
about switching over. Ugh. Anyway, expect some changes over the next
little while. I'll try to keep the upheaval to a minimum.

--- Ritalin Backlash in Cake

--- Ritalin Backlash in Cake Eater Country.
Sidewalk chalk is a wonderful thing. It gives the children the chance
to hone their fine sense of chiaroscuro on hopscotch squares while they
get a bit of fresh air at the same time. A great thing for parents and
for their wee ones. Today, however, on our walk through Cake Eater
Country, it seems someone had decided that sidewalk chalk was as good a
tool as spray paint for starting a movement. What phrase was scribbled
across the pavement? No, it wasn't "All Your Base Belong Are Belong To
Us." It was Hyper is Good!

UPDATE: 05/01/2004 The husband informs me that I screwed up the "All Your
Base" thing. And Yeah, upon further review it does look as if I goofed
it pretty badly---but for a sentence with numerous grammatical errors,
how the hell was I supposed to know and why should I care? I don't keep
up on obscure movements. "All your base are belong to us." is what it's supposed to be.

Forgive me Father, I am a worm...

--- Ritalin Backlash in Cake

--- Ritalin Backlash in Cake Eater Country.
Sidewalk chalk is a wonderful thing. It gives the children the chance
to hone their fine sense of chiaroscuro on hopscotch squares while they
get a bit of fresh air at the same time. A great thing for parents and
for their wee ones. Today, however, on our walk through Cake Eater
Country, it seems someone had decided that sidewalk chalk was as good a
tool as spray paint for starting a movement. What phrase was scribbled
across the pavement? No, it wasn't "All Your Base Belong Are Belong To
Us." It was Hyper is Good!

UPDATE: 05/01/2004 The husband informs me that I screwed up the "All Your
Base" thing. And Yeah, upon further review it does look as if I goofed
it pretty badly---but for a sentence with numerous grammatical errors,
how the hell was I supposed to know and why should I care? I don't keep
up on obscure movements. "All your base are belong to us." is what it's supposed to be.

Forgive me Father, I am a worm...

God, I've been trolling for

God, I've been trolling for a Silly German story for a while now. And thanks to Electric Venom and Apropos of Something, I have one!

Childless couple told to try sex A German couple who went to a fertility clinic after eight years of marriage have found out why they are still childless - they weren't having sex. The University Clinic of Lubek said they had never heard of a case like it after examining the couple who went to see them last month for fertility tests. Doctors subjected them to a series of examinations and found they were both apparently fertile, and should have had no trouble conceiving. A clinic spokesman said: "When we asked them how often they had had sex, they looked blank, and said: "What do you mean?". "We are not talking retarded people here, but a couple who were brought up in a religious environment who were simply unaware, after eight years of marriage, of the physical requirements necessary to procreate."

Wow. Talk about sheltered.

God, I've been trolling for

God, I've been trolling for a Silly German story for a while now. And thanks to Electric Venom and Apropos of Something, I have one!

Childless couple told to try sex A German couple who went to a fertility clinic after eight years of marriage have found out why they are still childless - they weren't having sex. The University Clinic of Lubek said they had never heard of a case like it after examining the couple who went to see them last month for fertility tests. Doctors subjected them to a series of examinations and found they were both apparently fertile, and should have had no trouble conceiving. A clinic spokesman said: "When we asked them how often they had had sex, they looked blank, and said: "What do you mean?". "We are not talking retarded people here, but a couple who were brought up in a religious environment who were simply unaware, after eight years of marriage, of the physical requirements necessary to procreate."

Wow. Talk about sheltered.

I'll be damned if I

I'll be damned if I ever buy another Tom Clancy book.

The hawkish master of such million-selling thrillers as Patriot Games and The Hunt for Red October has added his own name to critics of the Iraq war, and not only through his own comments. His latest book, Battle Ready, is a collaboration with another war critic, retired Marine General Anthony Zinni. Battle Ready looks at Zinni's long military career, dating back to the Vietnam War, and includes harsh remarks by Zinni about the current conflict. In an interview today with The Associated Press, Clancy and Zinni sat side by side in a hotel conference room in Manhattan, mutual admirers who said they agreed on most issues, despite "one or two" spirited "discussions" during the book's planning. Zinni has openly attacked the war, but Clancy reluctantly acknowledged his own concerns. He declined repeatedly to comment on the war, before saying that it lacked a "casus belli," or suitable provocation. "It troubles me greatly to say that, because I've met President (George W) Bush," Clancy said. "He's a good guy. ... I think he's well-grounded, both morally and philosophically. But good men make mistakes."

The last person I ever expected a lack of foresight from was Tom Clancy. This is the guy who actually wrote a novel usingNATO's Cold War strategies regarding
a Soviet invasion of Western Europe. This is a guy who can look
simultaneously at the big picture and at the minute details and make
them come together to tell a compelling story. But after reading Executive Orders
I never expected something like this from him. In case you hadn't read
the book, Jack Ryan is fresh into his accidental presidency, the
Iranian president smells weakness and hooks up with the PRC and India
to cause trouble. He also invades Iraq and forms the United Islamic
Republic and also unleashes an airborne strain of Ebola in the United
States, murdering thousands to distract America from the war he is
about to launch against Kuwait and Saudi Arabia. When the illness and
the war is beaten back, Ryan decides to go preemptive.

Chapter 63. The Ryan Doctrine. Copyright 1996 by Jack Ryan Limited Partnership
"My Fellow Americans. I am here to give you an updated report on the
situation in the Middle East," the President said without preamble.
"Approximately four hours ago, organized resistance ceased among the
forces of the United Islamic Republic which invaded the Kingdom of
Saudi Arabia. Saudi, Kuwaiti and American forces, working together,
have destroyed six divisions in a battle which raged through a night
and a day. {...}"Ground combat in the area has, for the moment concluded.
I say 'for the moment' because this war is unlike any most of us have
known in the past fifty years. An attack was made directly upon our
citizens, on our soil. It was an attack deliberately made upon
civilians. It was an attack made using weapons of mass destruction. The
violations of international law are too numerous to list," the
President went on, "but it would be wrong to say that this attack was
made by the people of the United Islamic Republic upon America.
"Peoples do not make war. The decision to start a war is most
often made by one man. They used to be kings, or princes, or barbarian
chiefs, but throughout history it's usually one man who decides, and
never is the decision to start a war of aggression the result of the
democratic process.
"We Americans have no quarrel with the people of the form Iran and
Iraq. Their religion may be different from ours, but we are a country
which protects freedom of religion. Their languages may be different,
but America has welcomed people of many languages. If America has
proven anything to the world, it is that all men are the same, and
given the same freedom and the same opportunity, they will all prosper
to the limit only of their own abilities.
"In the last twenty-four hours, we killed at least ten thousand
soldiers of the UIR. Probably many more. We do not know and probably
will never know the total number of enemy deaths, and we need to remind
ourselves that they did not choose their fates. Those fates were chosen
for them by others, and ultimately by one person." Ryan clasped his
hands together theatrically. It seemed a very awkward gesture to all
who watched. ***
"There it goes," Chavez said, his face to the camera's small eyepiece
screen, which was not showing the download from the orbiting satellite.
"Start the music."
Clark thumbed the laser transmitter, careful to see that it was in the
invisible infra-red setting. A check through his eyepiece put the dot
on the building's cornice---or parapet, he couldn't remember the
difference. Whatever, there was a guard standing there, his foot on the
structure.
Diggs in Riyadh:"Final check."
"Bandit-Two-Five-One," he heard in reply---
"Two-Five-Two."
"Throughout history, kinds and princes have made war at their whim,
sending people off to die. To the kings, they were just peasants, and
the wars were just grabs for power and riches, a kind of entertainment,
and if people died, nobody much cared, and when it was all over, for
the most part the kings were still kings, whether they won or lost,
because they were above it all. All the way into this century, it was
assumed that a chief of state had a right
to make war. At Nuremberg, after the Second World War, we changed that
rule by trying and executing some of those responsible. But, getting to
that point, arresting the criminals, as it were, cost the lives of
twenty million Russians, six million Jews, so many lives lost that
historians don't even know..." Ryan looked up to see Andrea Price wave
to him. She didn't smile. It was not a smiling matter. But she gave the
signal anyway.
The ground-based laser was only insurance. They could have gone in
without it, but picking out exactly the right house in the city would
have been difficult, and they wanted to limit collateral damage. This
way, also, the aircraft could drop their weapons from higher altitude.
Simple ballistics would guarantee a drop to within a hundred yards, and
the improved optics systems on the guidance packages cut that figure to
one. Exactly on time, both BANDIT aircraft ("Bandit" was the
semi-official call sign for the pilots of the Black Jets) opened their
bomb-bay doors. Each aircraft carried a single five-hundred pound
weapon, the smallest that could take a PAVEWAY guidance package. These
hung from a trapeze while the seeker heads looked for a modulated laser
signal. Bot acquired the laser dot, and so informed the pilots, who
executed the release. Then they both did something neither had ever
done before on a Stealth mission.
"Bandit-Two-Five-One, bomb away!"
"Two-Five-Two, bomb gone!"
"Every idea in the history of man, good or bad, has started in a single
human mind, and wars begin because one mind thinks it is profitable to
kill and steal. This time it's happened to us in a particularly cruel
way. This time, we can be exactly sure who did it---and more"
Worldwide, in every country with a satellite dish and TV cable, in over
a billion homes, the picture changed from the Oval Office of the White
House to a three-story building on a city street. Most viewers thought
it some mad error, something from a movie, a bad connection---
A handful knew different, even before the President went on. Daryaei,
too, was watching the President's speech, as much from pure curiosity
as political advantage. What sort of man was this Ryan, really? he'd
wondered for so long. Too late, he found out.
"This is where he lives, Mahmoud Haji Daryaei, the man who attacked our
country with disease, the man who attacked my child, the man who tried
to attack me, the man who sent his army on a mission of conquest that
turned into a mission of death. He is a man who has defiled his
religion and the laws of men and nations, and now, Mr. Daryaei, here is
the reply of the United States of America."
The President's voice stopped, and a second or two later, so did
translations all over the world, replaced only by silence, as eyes
watched an ordinary black-and-white picture of a quite ordinary
building---and yet everyone knew that something extraordinary was about
to happen. Those looking very closely saw a light go on in a window,
and the front door open, but no one would ever know the indentity of
the person who might have been attempting to leave, because both
weapons fell true, struck the roof of the building and went off a
hundredth of a second later.
The noise was awful. The passing pressure wave was the worst. Both men
watched, ignorning the danger. The echoes were punctuated by the tinkle
of glass from half a mile around. "You okay?" Ding asked.
"Yeah. Time to boogie, partner."
"Fuckin' A, Mr. C."
They got down to the bedroom level as quickley as possible. Chavez cut
most of his way through the cords with a pocket knife. He figured it
would take them about five minutes to work themselves free. The alleys
allwoed them to drive from the area, and keep out of the way of
emergency vehicles, which screamed their way to the remains of the
three buildings. Half an hour later, they were back in the safety of
the Russian embassy. Vodka was offered. Vodka was drunk. Chavez had
never experienced so bad a case of the shakes. Clark had. The vodka
helped.
"To the people of the United Islamic Republic, the United States of
America says this:
"First we know the exact location of the germ-warfare factory. We have
asked for and received the help of the Russian Federation. They are
neutrals in this dispute, but they have knowledge of this type of
weapon. A team of technical experts is not on its way to Teheran. They
will land and and you will take them immediately to the facility to
supervise its neutralization. They will be accompanied by journalists
for independent verification of the facts. If this does not happen,
then twelve hours from now we will destroy the site with a low-yield
nuclear bomb to be delivered by a Stealth aircraft. Do not make the
mistake of thinking that I am unwilling to give that order. The United
States of America will not tolerate the existence of that facility and
its inhuman weapons/ The twelve-hour period starts now." {...}
"Finally, and I say this to all nations who may wish us ill, the United
States of America will not tolerate attacks on our country, our
possessions, or our citizens. From this day forward, whoever executes
or orders such an attack, no matter who you are, no matter where you
might hide, no matter how long it may take, we will come for you. I
have sworn an oath before God to execute my duties as President. That I
will do. To those who wish to be our friends, you will find no more
faithful friend than we. To those who would be our enemies, remember
that we can be faithful at that, too.{...}

So, what's good for Clancy's fiction, what makes it compelling, what makes the people who read his books cheer and say yes! that's how it ought to be!
isn't good enough for the United States of America in reality. And
that's fine. It's fiction, after all. But Clancy---staunch supporter of
America and her Armed Services---had better step up to the plate and
explain his actions by using more words than just that the casus belli
we did have wasn't enough before someone takes his words and uses them
against the war effort---and gets someone killed. Because it will
happen, sooner rather than later. People take what Clancy has to say
seriously. He's a first rate analyst and strategist. This bothers me to
say this because I have a great respect for Clancy. Zinni's interview
with 60 Minutes the other night bothered me and I cringed the moment I
heard he'd coauthored the book with Clancy. Here was the former
commander of CENTCOM ripping the Pentagon a new one over what he saw
was faulty planning. But let's be clear about Zinni's and Clancy's
motivations here: they want to make money. They're not giving a speech
at the War College. They're not presenting their findings in an Op-Ed
in the Times
or the Post. They wrote a book about Zinni's career and his opposition
to the war in Iraq takes up a portion of that book. And guess what,
given the current media mood about the war in Iraq, the publishers made
the decision that the best way to sell this book was based on Zinni's
critique of it. That's what's going to shoot it to #1 on the NYT
Bestseller List. Not because Zinni was another Napoleon and people are
really, really anxious to read what he has to say about military
matters and to read about his career. They're going to read it because
he critiqued the war. Zinni, after all, had street cred; this will
bolster their arguments against the war. This was a calculated move on
Zinni's and Clancy's part. They're out to profit from this. I generally
wouldn't hesitate to say that no one has more respect for the men and
women of our Armed Forces than Tom Clancy. But hell. This certainly
gets one to wondering doesn't it, about what he really thinks about war
and casus belli?
It's pretty clear from reading his novels that he likes everything to
be very, very neat. All the loose ends---and invariably there are many
of them---are tied up with a spectacular bow. I can see where this war
in Iraq would go against the grain for him. The causes of war are
always specific in nature. It's how his hero--Jack Ryan---reacts that's
unusual. As a character, Ryan is an unlikely hero. Hell, you've seen
the movies---you know what I'm talking about. But Ryan is a man who
believes in sending messages with your actions---for actions to mean
something other than a pure difference from inertia. Ryan's beliefs are
so ingrained, so forthright, they lead you to wonder about the
author's. Particularly when Clancy dedicates Executive Orders
to Ronald Wilson Reagan, 40th President of the United States. "The Man
Who Won The War." Clancy is a good writer. Moreover he is extremely
knowledgeable about all things military. He has less patience for
politics and that is obvious just from picking up his later works where
Ryan is President. I love reading his books. I'm not debating that
point, and sometime in the future I will probably pick up a book of his
at the library. But I won't buy one and I own all of his books. No more
will I contribute to his financial empire. He just doesn't fucking
deserve it. To coauthor a book with a critic of the war while there are still boots on the ground in Iraq
is just beyond me. What's worse is that the man who has profited from
glorfying the Armed Forces, will now profit (435,000 copies on the
first run---that's a lot of coin)from criticizing them and their
actions. What a fucking traitor. And that's not a word I throw around
lightly. Is that nasty divorce really affecting his finances? Is the
new wife looking for some nice rocks or a house on the beach in
Bermuda? What the hell is wrong with him? Clancy and Zinni say that
they're allowed to dissent, and they've made it very, very clear that
you find the fault with the Pentagon, not with the soldiers on the
ground, but what the hell are they to expect? Clancy has been their
biggest fan for years and now he's turned his back on them to coauthor
a book with a man who got up on 60 Minutes the other night and said
Rumsfeld and Wolfowitz have to go; you make it clear that the soldiers
are following orders, that they have no control over the plan; it's the
planners who need to be shown the door. The soldiers are following
their plan. You criticize the plan, you criticize them. Normally you
could say, yeah, the planners goofed and the soldiers on the ground
would agree with you and shrug it off. You can't do that right now. The
soldiers in Iraq are besieged. They're criticized at every turn for
just doing their job and there is no egghead difference between the
planners at the Pentagon and the soldiers on the ground at present when
it comes to the media. They are one in the same as far as the media's
concerned. Or hasn't Clancy noticed that the media tries to present the
soldiers in as bad a light as much as they possibly can? But Clancy
thinks the casus belli wasn't clear enough. What the hell is not clear
about the fact that Saddam Hussein ignored UN resolutions to disarm?
What the hell isn't clear about the fact that Al Qaeda stepped up to
the plate on 9/11, hit a goddamn homer, and it was simply a matter of
time before Saddam started giving them bigger bats and urged them to do
it again? What is not clear about our national security? While I know Tom likes things nice and neat, the War on Terrorism isn't
nice and neat. This bothers him, I think. It wasn't nice and neat when
nineteen men slammed airliners into the Twin Towers and the Pentagon
because they weren't acting as official representatives of a state. If
they had been members of the Saudi Army, for instance, well, then Tom
would have been advocating invading The Kingdom. That would have meant
two conventional armies going up against each other, tanks shooting at
tanks, subs shooting at subs---you know, old fashioned war,
fought in lines, replete with scouts and flanking maneuvers, with the
Generals directing the show from the back of the battlefield. Or from
CENTCOM at MacDill AFB in Florida via satellite. But the War on
Terrorism isn't tidy enough for Clancy. It's messy and it's confusing
and he isn't sure that we had casus belli. Well, Tom, far be it from me
to instruct you on anything, but you need to come into the 21st Century
and deal with the realities of the situation. Read your Kissinger. Read
your Weber. Read your Machiavelli. In other words, get real. Preemptive
war may not have been the optimal solution, but damn, did we have
another choice given what we knew of Saddam's capabilities? Did we have
to wait until Saddam did something really repulsive, like sell Sarin
gas to Al-Qaeda and it's allies to be released in the New York City
subway system? Would that make it neat enough for you? Despite the
civilian lives lost? Would it have been clear
enough for you, then, Tom? I thought you would have had the eagle's eye
view on this one, as is your normal habit, but apparently not. You
can't see the forest for the damn trees.
Tom just threw his ante into the pot. He's in the game now, whether he
likes it or not. And I sincerely hope, now that he's in the game, that
his incompetence doesn't get people killed.

I'll be damned if I

I'll be damned if I ever buy another Tom Clancy book.

The hawkish master of such million-selling thrillers as Patriot Games and The Hunt for Red October has added his own name to critics of the Iraq war, and not only through his own comments. His latest book, Battle Ready, is a collaboration with another war critic, retired Marine General Anthony Zinni. Battle Ready looks at Zinni's long military career, dating back to the Vietnam War, and includes harsh remarks by Zinni about the current conflict. In an interview today with The Associated Press, Clancy and Zinni sat side by side in a hotel conference room in Manhattan, mutual admirers who said they agreed on most issues, despite "one or two" spirited "discussions" during the book's planning. Zinni has openly attacked the war, but Clancy reluctantly acknowledged his own concerns. He declined repeatedly to comment on the war, before saying that it lacked a "casus belli," or suitable provocation. "It troubles me greatly to say that, because I've met President (George W) Bush," Clancy said. "He's a good guy. ... I think he's well-grounded, both morally and philosophically. But good men make mistakes."

The last person I ever expected a lack of foresight from was Tom Clancy. This is the guy who actually wrote a novel usingNATO's Cold War strategies regarding
a Soviet invasion of Western Europe. This is a guy who can look
simultaneously at the big picture and at the minute details and make
them come together to tell a compelling story. But after reading Executive Orders
I never expected something like this from him. In case you hadn't read
the book, Jack Ryan is fresh into his accidental presidency, the
Iranian president smells weakness and hooks up with the PRC and India
to cause trouble. He also invades Iraq and forms the United Islamic
Republic and also unleashes an airborne strain of Ebola in the United
States, murdering thousands to distract America from the war he is
about to launch against Kuwait and Saudi Arabia. When the illness and
the war is beaten back, Ryan decides to go preemptive.

Chapter 63. The Ryan Doctrine. Copyright 1996 by Jack Ryan Limited Partnership
"My Fellow Americans. I am here to give you an updated report on the
situation in the Middle East," the President said without preamble.
"Approximately four hours ago, organized resistance ceased among the
forces of the United Islamic Republic which invaded the Kingdom of
Saudi Arabia. Saudi, Kuwaiti and American forces, working together,
have destroyed six divisions in a battle which raged through a night
and a day. {...}"Ground combat in the area has, for the moment concluded.
I say 'for the moment' because this war is unlike any most of us have
known in the past fifty years. An attack was made directly upon our
citizens, on our soil. It was an attack deliberately made upon
civilians. It was an attack made using weapons of mass destruction. The
violations of international law are too numerous to list," the
President went on, "but it would be wrong to say that this attack was
made by the people of the United Islamic Republic upon America.
"Peoples do not make war. The decision to start a war is most
often made by one man. They used to be kings, or princes, or barbarian
chiefs, but throughout history it's usually one man who decides, and
never is the decision to start a war of aggression the result of the
democratic process.
"We Americans have no quarrel with the people of the form Iran and
Iraq. Their religion may be different from ours, but we are a country
which protects freedom of religion. Their languages may be different,
but America has welcomed people of many languages. If America has
proven anything to the world, it is that all men are the same, and
given the same freedom and the same opportunity, they will all prosper
to the limit only of their own abilities.
"In the last twenty-four hours, we killed at least ten thousand
soldiers of the UIR. Probably many more. We do not know and probably
will never know the total number of enemy deaths, and we need to remind
ourselves that they did not choose their fates. Those fates were chosen
for them by others, and ultimately by one person." Ryan clasped his
hands together theatrically. It seemed a very awkward gesture to all
who watched. ***
"There it goes," Chavez said, his face to the camera's small eyepiece
screen, which was not showing the download from the orbiting satellite.
"Start the music."
Clark thumbed the laser transmitter, careful to see that it was in the
invisible infra-red setting. A check through his eyepiece put the dot
on the building's cornice---or parapet, he couldn't remember the
difference. Whatever, there was a guard standing there, his foot on the
structure.
Diggs in Riyadh:"Final check."
"Bandit-Two-Five-One," he heard in reply---
"Two-Five-Two."
"Throughout history, kinds and princes have made war at their whim,
sending people off to die. To the kings, they were just peasants, and
the wars were just grabs for power and riches, a kind of entertainment,
and if people died, nobody much cared, and when it was all over, for
the most part the kings were still kings, whether they won or lost,
because they were above it all. All the way into this century, it was
assumed that a chief of state had a right
to make war. At Nuremberg, after the Second World War, we changed that
rule by trying and executing some of those responsible. But, getting to
that point, arresting the criminals, as it were, cost the lives of
twenty million Russians, six million Jews, so many lives lost that
historians don't even know..." Ryan looked up to see Andrea Price wave
to him. She didn't smile. It was not a smiling matter. But she gave the
signal anyway.
The ground-based laser was only insurance. They could have gone in
without it, but picking out exactly the right house in the city would
have been difficult, and they wanted to limit collateral damage. This
way, also, the aircraft could drop their weapons from higher altitude.
Simple ballistics would guarantee a drop to within a hundred yards, and
the improved optics systems on the guidance packages cut that figure to
one. Exactly on time, both BANDIT aircraft ("Bandit" was the
semi-official call sign for the pilots of the Black Jets) opened their
bomb-bay doors. Each aircraft carried a single five-hundred pound
weapon, the smallest that could take a PAVEWAY guidance package. These
hung from a trapeze while the seeker heads looked for a modulated laser
signal. Bot acquired the laser dot, and so informed the pilots, who
executed the release. Then they both did something neither had ever
done before on a Stealth mission.
"Bandit-Two-Five-One, bomb away!"
"Two-Five-Two, bomb gone!"
"Every idea in the history of man, good or bad, has started in a single
human mind, and wars begin because one mind thinks it is profitable to
kill and steal. This time it's happened to us in a particularly cruel
way. This time, we can be exactly sure who did it---and more"
Worldwide, in every country with a satellite dish and TV cable, in over
a billion homes, the picture changed from the Oval Office of the White
House to a three-story building on a city street. Most viewers thought
it some mad error, something from a movie, a bad connection---
A handful knew different, even before the President went on. Daryaei,
too, was watching the President's speech, as much from pure curiosity
as political advantage. What sort of man was this Ryan, really? he'd
wondered for so long. Too late, he found out.
"This is where he lives, Mahmoud Haji Daryaei, the man who attacked our
country with disease, the man who attacked my child, the man who tried
to attack me, the man who sent his army on a mission of conquest that
turned into a mission of death. He is a man who has defiled his
religion and the laws of men and nations, and now, Mr. Daryaei, here is
the reply of the United States of America."
The President's voice stopped, and a second or two later, so did
translations all over the world, replaced only by silence, as eyes
watched an ordinary black-and-white picture of a quite ordinary
building---and yet everyone knew that something extraordinary was about
to happen. Those looking very closely saw a light go on in a window,
and the front door open, but no one would ever know the indentity of
the person who might have been attempting to leave, because both
weapons fell true, struck the roof of the building and went off a
hundredth of a second later.
The noise was awful. The passing pressure wave was the worst. Both men
watched, ignorning the danger. The echoes were punctuated by the tinkle
of glass from half a mile around. "You okay?" Ding asked.
"Yeah. Time to boogie, partner."
"Fuckin' A, Mr. C."
They got down to the bedroom level as quickley as possible. Chavez cut
most of his way through the cords with a pocket knife. He figured it
would take them about five minutes to work themselves free. The alleys
allwoed them to drive from the area, and keep out of the way of
emergency vehicles, which screamed their way to the remains of the
three buildings. Half an hour later, they were back in the safety of
the Russian embassy. Vodka was offered. Vodka was drunk. Chavez had
never experienced so bad a case of the shakes. Clark had. The vodka
helped.
"To the people of the United Islamic Republic, the United States of
America says this:
"First we know the exact location of the germ-warfare factory. We have
asked for and received the help of the Russian Federation. They are
neutrals in this dispute, but they have knowledge of this type of
weapon. A team of technical experts is not on its way to Teheran. They
will land and and you will take them immediately to the facility to
supervise its neutralization. They will be accompanied by journalists
for independent verification of the facts. If this does not happen,
then twelve hours from now we will destroy the site with a low-yield
nuclear bomb to be delivered by a Stealth aircraft. Do not make the
mistake of thinking that I am unwilling to give that order. The United
States of America will not tolerate the existence of that facility and
its inhuman weapons/ The twelve-hour period starts now." {...}
"Finally, and I say this to all nations who may wish us ill, the United
States of America will not tolerate attacks on our country, our
possessions, or our citizens. From this day forward, whoever executes
or orders such an attack, no matter who you are, no matter where you
might hide, no matter how long it may take, we will come for you. I
have sworn an oath before God to execute my duties as President. That I
will do. To those who wish to be our friends, you will find no more
faithful friend than we. To those who would be our enemies, remember
that we can be faithful at that, too.{...}

So, what's good for Clancy's fiction, what makes it compelling, what makes the people who read his books cheer and say yes! that's how it ought to be!
isn't good enough for the United States of America in reality. And
that's fine. It's fiction, after all. But Clancy---staunch supporter of
America and her Armed Services---had better step up to the plate and
explain his actions by using more words than just that the casus belli
we did have wasn't enough before someone takes his words and uses them
against the war effort---and gets someone killed. Because it will
happen, sooner rather than later. People take what Clancy has to say
seriously. He's a first rate analyst and strategist. This bothers me to
say this because I have a great respect for Clancy. Zinni's interview
with 60 Minutes the other night bothered me and I cringed the moment I
heard he'd coauthored the book with Clancy. Here was the former
commander of CENTCOM ripping the Pentagon a new one over what he saw
was faulty planning. But let's be clear about Zinni's and Clancy's
motivations here: they want to make money. They're not giving a speech
at the War College. They're not presenting their findings in an Op-Ed
in the Times
or the Post. They wrote a book about Zinni's career and his opposition
to the war in Iraq takes up a portion of that book. And guess what,
given the current media mood about the war in Iraq, the publishers made
the decision that the best way to sell this book was based on Zinni's
critique of it. That's what's going to shoot it to #1 on the NYT
Bestseller List. Not because Zinni was another Napoleon and people are
really, really anxious to read what he has to say about military
matters and to read about his career. They're going to read it because
he critiqued the war. Zinni, after all, had street cred; this will
bolster their arguments against the war. This was a calculated move on
Zinni's and Clancy's part. They're out to profit from this. I generally
wouldn't hesitate to say that no one has more respect for the men and
women of our Armed Forces than Tom Clancy. But hell. This certainly
gets one to wondering doesn't it, about what he really thinks about war
and casus belli?
It's pretty clear from reading his novels that he likes everything to
be very, very neat. All the loose ends---and invariably there are many
of them---are tied up with a spectacular bow. I can see where this war
in Iraq would go against the grain for him. The causes of war are
always specific in nature. It's how his hero--Jack Ryan---reacts that's
unusual. As a character, Ryan is an unlikely hero. Hell, you've seen
the movies---you know what I'm talking about. But Ryan is a man who
believes in sending messages with your actions---for actions to mean
something other than a pure difference from inertia. Ryan's beliefs are
so ingrained, so forthright, they lead you to wonder about the
author's. Particularly when Clancy dedicates Executive Orders
to Ronald Wilson Reagan, 40th President of the United States. "The Man
Who Won The War." Clancy is a good writer. Moreover he is extremely
knowledgeable about all things military. He has less patience for
politics and that is obvious just from picking up his later works where
Ryan is President. I love reading his books. I'm not debating that
point, and sometime in the future I will probably pick up a book of his
at the library. But I won't buy one and I own all of his books. No more
will I contribute to his financial empire. He just doesn't fucking
deserve it. To coauthor a book with a critic of the war while there are still boots on the ground in Iraq
is just beyond me. What's worse is that the man who has profited from
glorfying the Armed Forces, will now profit (435,000 copies on the
first run---that's a lot of coin)from criticizing them and their
actions. What a fucking traitor. And that's not a word I throw around
lightly. Is that nasty divorce really affecting his finances? Is the
new wife looking for some nice rocks or a house on the beach in
Bermuda? What the hell is wrong with him? Clancy and Zinni say that
they're allowed to dissent, and they've made it very, very clear that
you find the fault with the Pentagon, not with the soldiers on the
ground, but what the hell are they to expect? Clancy has been their
biggest fan for years and now he's turned his back on them to coauthor
a book with a man who got up on 60 Minutes the other night and said
Rumsfeld and Wolfowitz have to go; you make it clear that the soldiers
are following orders, that they have no control over the plan; it's the
planners who need to be shown the door. The soldiers are following
their plan. You criticize the plan, you criticize them. Normally you
could say, yeah, the planners goofed and the soldiers on the ground
would agree with you and shrug it off. You can't do that right now. The
soldiers in Iraq are besieged. They're criticized at every turn for
just doing their job and there is no egghead difference between the
planners at the Pentagon and the soldiers on the ground at present when
it comes to the media. They are one in the same as far as the media's
concerned. Or hasn't Clancy noticed that the media tries to present the
soldiers in as bad a light as much as they possibly can? But Clancy
thinks the casus belli wasn't clear enough. What the hell is not clear
about the fact that Saddam Hussein ignored UN resolutions to disarm?
What the hell isn't clear about the fact that Al Qaeda stepped up to
the plate on 9/11, hit a goddamn homer, and it was simply a matter of
time before Saddam started giving them bigger bats and urged them to do
it again? What is not clear about our national security? While I know Tom likes things nice and neat, the War on Terrorism isn't
nice and neat. This bothers him, I think. It wasn't nice and neat when
nineteen men slammed airliners into the Twin Towers and the Pentagon
because they weren't acting as official representatives of a state. If
they had been members of the Saudi Army, for instance, well, then Tom
would have been advocating invading The Kingdom. That would have meant
two conventional armies going up against each other, tanks shooting at
tanks, subs shooting at subs---you know, old fashioned war,
fought in lines, replete with scouts and flanking maneuvers, with the
Generals directing the show from the back of the battlefield. Or from
CENTCOM at MacDill AFB in Florida via satellite. But the War on
Terrorism isn't tidy enough for Clancy. It's messy and it's confusing
and he isn't sure that we had casus belli. Well, Tom, far be it from me
to instruct you on anything, but you need to come into the 21st Century
and deal with the realities of the situation. Read your Kissinger. Read
your Weber. Read your Machiavelli. In other words, get real. Preemptive
war may not have been the optimal solution, but damn, did we have
another choice given what we knew of Saddam's capabilities? Did we have
to wait until Saddam did something really repulsive, like sell Sarin
gas to Al-Qaeda and it's allies to be released in the New York City
subway system? Would that make it neat enough for you? Despite the
civilian lives lost? Would it have been clear
enough for you, then, Tom? I thought you would have had the eagle's eye
view on this one, as is your normal habit, but apparently not. You
can't see the forest for the damn trees.
Tom just threw his ante into the pot. He's in the game now, whether he
likes it or not. And I sincerely hope, now that he's in the game, that
his incompetence doesn't get people killed.

WASHINGTON, May 26 (UPI) --

WASHINGTON, May 26 (UPI) -- The U.S.-led war on terror is "bankrupt of vision and bereft of principle," and has made the world more dangerous, the human rights group Amnesty International said in its latest report Wednesday. The group's 2004 report criticizes the United States and its allies, along with militant groups worldwide, for what it calls "the most sustained attack on human rights and international humanitarian law in the last 50 years." Over the past four years, 177 armed groups have operated in 65 countries, which make-up one-third of the world's population, the report said. Fifty-five percent of these groups killed civilians and 20 percent committed rape and other sexual violence. One-third of governments responded to this violence by killing civilians; 36 percent by torturing and ill-treating people; and 28 percent through sexual violence, including rape, the report added. The report comes down heavily on both governments and militant groups. It details torture and ill-treatment in 132 countries, political killings in 47, and detainments without trial or charge in 58 nations. It also detailed killings and attacks by militants in 34 countries, torture or ill treatment in 18, and hostage-takings and abductions in 16. "This is to say that the war on terror has evolved into a global street brawl with governments and armed groups duking it out, and innocent civilians suffering severely," William Schulz, executive director of Amnesty International USA, at a news conference in Washington.

According to Amnesty International, this is what the math looks like:

I think not. It's off to summer school for Amnesty International. While
every other kid is out having fun, they should be stuck in an
unairconditioned class room, learning how to add.

(Apologies for the crappy graphic job. I don't have photoshop...sue me)

WASHINGTON, May 26 (UPI) --

WASHINGTON, May 26 (UPI) -- The U.S.-led war on terror is "bankrupt of vision and bereft of principle," and has made the world more dangerous, the human rights group Amnesty International said in its latest report Wednesday. The group's 2004 report criticizes the United States and its allies, along with militant groups worldwide, for what it calls "the most sustained attack on human rights and international humanitarian law in the last 50 years." Over the past four years, 177 armed groups have operated in 65 countries, which make-up one-third of the world's population, the report said. Fifty-five percent of these groups killed civilians and 20 percent committed rape and other sexual violence. One-third of governments responded to this violence by killing civilians; 36 percent by torturing and ill-treating people; and 28 percent through sexual violence, including rape, the report added. The report comes down heavily on both governments and militant groups. It details torture and ill-treatment in 132 countries, political killings in 47, and detainments without trial or charge in 58 nations. It also detailed killings and attacks by militants in 34 countries, torture or ill treatment in 18, and hostage-takings and abductions in 16. "This is to say that the war on terror has evolved into a global street brawl with governments and armed groups duking it out, and innocent civilians suffering severely," William Schulz, executive director of Amnesty International USA, at a news conference in Washington.

According to Amnesty International, this is what the math looks like:

I think not. It's off to summer school for Amnesty International. While
every other kid is out having fun, they should be stuck in an
unairconditioned class room, learning how to add.

(Apologies for the crappy graphic job. I don't have photoshop...sue me)

This guy better watch it.

This guy better watch it.

He might get bubbles up his whoops-a-daisy.

This guy better watch it.

This guy better watch it.

He might get bubbles up his whoops-a-daisy.

101 Great Books List recommended

101 Great Books List recommended by the College Board. (Hat Tip: Michele)
The books in bold are the ones I, just like Michele (I'm all about
originality here), read either in high school or in college. Or during
some point in time during my adult life.
I should probably note that the English department at my high school
was the largest department within the entire school. More than a few of
the teachers had their MA's and had started work on their PhD's and
were teaching literature at the college level, but were sick and tired
of the "publish or perish" business so prevalent in universities that
they came and taught at my school. These teachers, of course, had some
rather unorthodox views about classic literature and passed these ideas
along. You'll notice them when you come to them in my list. Achebe,
Chinua - Things Fall Apart Agee, James - A Death in the Family Austin, Jane - Pride and Prejudice Note that the misspelling of Austen's
last name is done by the people who force your kids to study their
asses off for the SAT. I love Austen. This is my favorite novel of
hers. Baldwin, James - Go Tell It on the Mountain Beckett, Samuel -
Waiting for Godot Bellow, Saul - The Adventures of Augie March Bronte, Charlotte Jane Eyre Honestly. What 17 year old girl hasn't read this one?
Bronte, Emily - Wuthering Heights Ditto.
Camus, Albert - The Stranger Still don't know what it was about.
Cather, Willa - Death Comes for the Archbishop I grew up in Nebraska. She's our most famous author. I liked My Antonia better, though. I was told the public school kids had to read "O Pioneers," but we never had to.
Cervantes, Miguel de - Don Quixote I'd rather watch The Man From La Mancha
Chaucer, Geoffrey - The Canterbury Tales
Chekhov, Anton - The Cherry Orchard
Chopin, Kate - The Awakening
Conrad, Joseph - Heart of Darkness Never read this, but I did read Lord Jim We went through it sentence by sentence and deconstructed the language. Oy.
Cooper, James Fenimore - The Last of the Mohicans American Lit.
If I'm remembering correctly, it was the first American novel. Or was
Fenimore Cooper the first American novelist? Ah, who cares. Best
character name that SO didn't fit the character---Natty Bumppo! Crane, Stephen - The Red Badge of Courage
Dante - Inferno And people worry that their kids see too much
violence on TV. Hmmph. Yeah, yeah, I know. Morality tale. Still, one of
the goriest books I've ever read.
Defoe, Daniel-Robinson Crusoe Dickens, Charles - A Tale of Two Cities Dostoyevsky, Fyodor - Crime and Punishment Convinced me at age seventeen I wanted nothing whatsoever to do with Russians. Ever.
Douglass, Frederick - Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass
Dreiser, Theodore - An American Tragedy
Dumas, Alexandre - The Three Musketeers
Eliot, George - The Mill on the Floss
Ellison, Ralph - Invisible Man
Emerson, Ralph Waldo - Selected Essays Yawn.
Faulkner, William - As I Lay Dying
Faulkner, William - The Sound and the Fury
Fielding, Henry - Tom Jones
Fitzgerald, F. Scott - The Great Gatsby
Flaubert, Gustave - Madame Bovary
Ford, Ford Madox - The Good Soldier
Goethe, Johann Wolfgang von - Faust
Golding, William - Lord of the Flies I never had to read this
for class. This book was for the level three girls (translation: not
the brightest bulbs in the box) But my friend was level three and
needed help so I read it to help her.
Hardy, Thomas - Tess of the d'Urbervilles Hawthorne, Nathaniel - The Scarlet Letter
Heller, Joseph Catch 22
Hemingway, Ernest - A Farewell to Arms Gag. I hate Hemingway.
Always have. I'd only read a few of his short stories, and one of them
described this WWI Vet camping, all of his buddies were dead, he was
sad. I remember he was opening a can of oranges to go with his fish
supper and it took FOREVER for this guy to put one in his mouth. This
overly described slice of orange was supposedly a metaphor for loss and
war being horrible and all of that bullshit. But I also hate that I was
enough of a spineless sap at age seventeen to have read this book to
please a boy who wanted to get into my pants. I told him I loved it,
even though I thought it was crap. He thought that Henry's love for
Catherine was "the ideal." Henry was an idiot. Ugh. I tried to disagree
with him, but in the end he was just SO in favor of this book that I
didn't want to disappoint him. Like I said, SPINELESS SAP! (And no, he
didn't get into my pants. Not so spineless after all, I suppose.) Homer - The Iliad
Homer - The Odyssey Both of these. In Latin. Impressive, no? Heh.
Hugo, Victor The Hunchback of Notre Dame
Hurston, Zora Neale Their Eyes Were Watching God
Huxley, Aldous Brave New World
Ibsen, Henrik - A Doll's House Did anyone ever get out of reading this one?
James, Henry - The Portrait of a Lady
James, Henry The Turn of the Screw
Joyce, James - A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man If you're ever to read Joyce, this is the book to attempt. Forget Finnegan's Wake and Ulysses.
Kafka, Franz - The Metamorphosis
Kingston, Maxine Hong - The Woman Warrior
Lee, Harper - To Kill a Mockingbird
Lewis, Sinclair - Babbitt
London, Jack - The Call of the Wild Never read this actually, but I did read To Build a Fire. I've never been so cold in all my life as when I read that.
Mann, Thomas - The Magic Mountain
Marquez, Gabriel Garcia - One Hundred Years of Solitude
Melville, Herman - Bartleby the Scrivener A Story of Wall Street. One of the best short stories I've ever read.
Melville, Herman - Moby Dick
Miller, Arthur - The Crucible
Morrison, Toni - Beloved
O'Connor, Flannery - A Good Man is Hard to Find
O'Neill, Eugene - Long Day's Journey into Night
Orwell, George - Animal Farm The husband tells me that I'm missing something rather good by not having read this. We read <1>1984 instead.
Pasternak, Boris - Doctor Zhivago
Plath, Sylvia - The Bell Jar What? Are they trying to get young girls to off themselves?
Poe, Edgar Allen - Selected Tales Fall of the House of Usher.
Scariest. Story. Ever.
Proust, Marcel - Swann's Way Pynchon, Thomas - The Crying of Lot 49
Remarque, Erich Maria - All Quiet on the Western Front (The English
department apparently wasn't too fond of this book. Everyone I know has
read it. I haven't.) Rostand, Edmond - Cyrano de Bergerac The schnozz!
Roth, Henry - Call It Sleep
Salinger, J.D. - The Catcher in the Rye
Shakespeare, William - Hamlet I only read Macbeth in high school. The rest I read at other times. We didn't read Romeo and Juliet
at my high school. I found out why from Mrs. H.---she said that
Shakespeare was good, but the English department felt there was too
much emphasis paid to the man's works and that other, perfectly good
works were ignored in his favor. Hence, we read Macbeth instead of R&J (they wanted to envoke the "what the hell?" aspect that Macbeth
does so well) She was also highly invested in the argument that
Shakespeare did not write all of the works attributed to him. She
believed Christopher Marlowe was the true author and she didn't feel
like "perpetuating a fraud" until the matter was settled. Shakespeare, William - Macbeth
Shakespeare, William - A Midsummer Night's Dream
Shakespeare, William - Romeo and Juliet
Shaw, George Bernard - Pygmalion
Shelley, Mary - Frankenstein
Silko, Leslie - Marmon Ceremony
Solzhenitsyn, Alexander One Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich
Sophocles - Antigone I know I read it, but for the life of me, I can't remember a thing about it.
Sophocles - Oedipus Rex What first walks on four legs, then on two, then on three? Ugh. Sick, sick, sick.
Steinbeck, John - The Grapes of Wrath
Stevenson, Robert Louis - Treasure Island
Stowe, Harriet Beecher - Uncle Tom's Cabin I like Tuptim's adaptation better.
Swift, Jonathan - Gulliver's Travels
Thackeray, William - Vanity Fair
Thoreau, Henry David - Walden Yawn.
Tolstoy, Leo - War and Peace
Turgenev, Ivan - Fathers and Sons
Twain, Mark - The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn
Voltaire - Candide Ah, the good old days of political theory class.
Vonnegut, Kurt Jr. - Slaughterhouse-Five
Walker, Alice - The Color Purple
Warton, Edith - The House of Mirth
Welty, Eudora - Collected Stories
Whitman, Walt Leaves of Grass Yawn. I know, I'm showing a
distinct lack of appreciation for American poets of the
transcendentalist movement. Which seems particularly neglectful and
unappreciative given my own views. Well, pfft. Wilde, Oscar - The
Picture of Dorian Gray Williams, Tennessee - The Glass Menagerie Woolf,
Virginia - To the Lighthouse Wright, Richard - Native Son

101 Great Books List recommended

101 Great Books List recommended by the College Board. (Hat Tip: Michele)
The books in bold are the ones I, just like Michele (I'm all about
originality here), read either in high school or in college. Or during
some point in time during my adult life.
I should probably note that the English department at my high school
was the largest department within the entire school. More than a few of
the teachers had their MA's and had started work on their PhD's and
were teaching literature at the college level, but were sick and tired
of the "publish or perish" business so prevalent in universities that
they came and taught at my school. These teachers, of course, had some
rather unorthodox views about classic literature and passed these ideas
along. You'll notice them when you come to them in my list. Achebe,
Chinua - Things Fall Apart Agee, James - A Death in the Family Austin, Jane - Pride and Prejudice Note that the misspelling of Austen's
last name is done by the people who force your kids to study their
asses off for the SAT. I love Austen. This is my favorite novel of
hers. Baldwin, James - Go Tell It on the Mountain Beckett, Samuel -
Waiting for Godot Bellow, Saul - The Adventures of Augie March Bronte, Charlotte Jane Eyre Honestly. What 17 year old girl hasn't read this one?
Bronte, Emily - Wuthering Heights Ditto.
Camus, Albert - The Stranger Still don't know what it was about.
Cather, Willa - Death Comes for the Archbishop I grew up in Nebraska. She's our most famous author. I liked My Antonia better, though. I was told the public school kids had to read "O Pioneers," but we never had to.
Cervantes, Miguel de - Don Quixote I'd rather watch The Man From La Mancha
Chaucer, Geoffrey - The Canterbury Tales
Chekhov, Anton - The Cherry Orchard
Chopin, Kate - The Awakening
Conrad, Joseph - Heart of Darkness Never read this, but I did read Lord Jim We went through it sentence by sentence and deconstructed the language. Oy.
Cooper, James Fenimore - The Last of the Mohicans American Lit.
If I'm remembering correctly, it was the first American novel. Or was
Fenimore Cooper the first American novelist? Ah, who cares. Best
character name that SO didn't fit the character---Natty Bumppo! Crane, Stephen - The Red Badge of Courage
Dante - Inferno And people worry that their kids see too much
violence on TV. Hmmph. Yeah, yeah, I know. Morality tale. Still, one of
the goriest books I've ever read.
Defoe, Daniel-Robinson Crusoe Dickens, Charles - A Tale of Two Cities Dostoyevsky, Fyodor - Crime and Punishment Convinced me at age seventeen I wanted nothing whatsoever to do with Russians. Ever.
Douglass, Frederick - Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass
Dreiser, Theodore - An American Tragedy
Dumas, Alexandre - The Three Musketeers
Eliot, George - The Mill on the Floss
Ellison, Ralph - Invisible Man
Emerson, Ralph Waldo - Selected Essays Yawn.
Faulkner, William - As I Lay Dying
Faulkner, William - The Sound and the Fury
Fielding, Henry - Tom Jones
Fitzgerald, F. Scott - The Great Gatsby
Flaubert, Gustave - Madame Bovary
Ford, Ford Madox - The Good Soldier
Goethe, Johann Wolfgang von - Faust
Golding, William - Lord of the Flies I never had to read this
for class. This book was for the level three girls (translation: not
the brightest bulbs in the box) But my friend was level three and
needed help so I read it to help her.
Hardy, Thomas - Tess of the d'Urbervilles Hawthorne, Nathaniel - The Scarlet Letter
Heller, Joseph Catch 22
Hemingway, Ernest - A Farewell to Arms Gag. I hate Hemingway.
Always have. I'd only read a few of his short stories, and one of them
described this WWI Vet camping, all of his buddies were dead, he was
sad. I remember he was opening a can of oranges to go with his fish
supper and it took FOREVER for this guy to put one in his mouth. This
overly described slice of orange was supposedly a metaphor for loss and
war being horrible and all of that bullshit. But I also hate that I was
enough of a spineless sap at age seventeen to have read this book to
please a boy who wanted to get into my pants. I told him I loved it,
even though I thought it was crap. He thought that Henry's love for
Catherine was "the ideal." Henry was an idiot. Ugh. I tried to disagree
with him, but in the end he was just SO in favor of this book that I
didn't want to disappoint him. Like I said, SPINELESS SAP! (And no, he
didn't get into my pants. Not so spineless after all, I suppose.) Homer - The Iliad
Homer - The Odyssey Both of these. In Latin. Impressive, no? Heh.
Hugo, Victor The Hunchback of Notre Dame
Hurston, Zora Neale Their Eyes Were Watching God
Huxley, Aldous Brave New World
Ibsen, Henrik - A Doll's House Did anyone ever get out of reading this one?
James, Henry - The Portrait of a Lady
James, Henry The Turn of the Screw
Joyce, James - A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man If you're ever to read Joyce, this is the book to attempt. Forget Finnegan's Wake and Ulysses.
Kafka, Franz - The Metamorphosis
Kingston, Maxine Hong - The Woman Warrior
Lee, Harper - To Kill a Mockingbird
Lewis, Sinclair - Babbitt
London, Jack - The Call of the Wild Never read this actually, but I did read To Build a Fire. I've never been so cold in all my life as when I read that.
Mann, Thomas - The Magic Mountain
Marquez, Gabriel Garcia - One Hundred Years of Solitude
Melville, Herman - Bartleby the Scrivener A Story of Wall Street. One of the best short stories I've ever read.
Melville, Herman - Moby Dick
Miller, Arthur - The Crucible
Morrison, Toni - Beloved
O'Connor, Flannery - A Good Man is Hard to Find
O'Neill, Eugene - Long Day's Journey into Night
Orwell, George - Animal Farm The husband tells me that I'm missing something rather good by not having read this. We read <1>1984 instead.
Pasternak, Boris - Doctor Zhivago
Plath, Sylvia - The Bell Jar What? Are they trying to get young girls to off themselves?
Poe, Edgar Allen - Selected Tales Fall of the House of Usher.
Scariest. Story. Ever.
Proust, Marcel - Swann's Way Pynchon, Thomas - The Crying of Lot 49
Remarque, Erich Maria - All Quiet on the Western Front (The English
department apparently wasn't too fond of this book. Everyone I know has
read it. I haven't.) Rostand, Edmond - Cyrano de Bergerac The schnozz!
Roth, Henry - Call It Sleep
Salinger, J.D. - The Catcher in the Rye
Shakespeare, William - Hamlet I only read Macbeth in high school. The rest I read at other times. We didn't read Romeo and Juliet
at my high school. I found out why from Mrs. H.---she said that
Shakespeare was good, but the English department felt there was too
much emphasis paid to the man's works and that other, perfectly good
works were ignored in his favor. Hence, we read Macbeth instead of R&J (they wanted to envoke the "what the hell?" aspect that Macbeth
does so well) She was also highly invested in the argument that
Shakespeare did not write all of the works attributed to him. She
believed Christopher Marlowe was the true author and she didn't feel
like "perpetuating a fraud" until the matter was settled. Shakespeare, William - Macbeth
Shakespeare, William - A Midsummer Night's Dream
Shakespeare, William - Romeo and Juliet
Shaw, George Bernard - Pygmalion
Shelley, Mary - Frankenstein
Silko, Leslie - Marmon Ceremony
Solzhenitsyn, Alexander One Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich
Sophocles - Antigone I know I read it, but for the life of me, I can't remember a thing about it.
Sophocles - Oedipus Rex What first walks on four legs, then on two, then on three? Ugh. Sick, sick, sick.
Steinbeck, John - The Grapes of Wrath
Stevenson, Robert Louis - Treasure Island
Stowe, Harriet Beecher - Uncle Tom's Cabin I like Tuptim's adaptation better.
Swift, Jonathan - Gulliver's Travels
Thackeray, William - Vanity Fair
Thoreau, Henry David - Walden Yawn.
Tolstoy, Leo - War and Peace
Turgenev, Ivan - Fathers and Sons
Twain, Mark - The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn
Voltaire - Candide Ah, the good old days of political theory class.
Vonnegut, Kurt Jr. - Slaughterhouse-Five
Walker, Alice - The Color Purple
Warton, Edith - The House of Mirth
Welty, Eudora - Collected Stories
Whitman, Walt Leaves of Grass Yawn. I know, I'm showing a
distinct lack of appreciation for American poets of the
transcendentalist movement. Which seems particularly neglectful and
unappreciative given my own views. Well, pfft. Wilde, Oscar - The
Picture of Dorian Gray Williams, Tennessee - The Glass Menagerie Woolf,
Virginia - To the Lighthouse Wright, Richard - Native Son

Golddiggers beware. HAMBURG, Germany (AFP)

Golddiggers beware.

HAMBURG, Germany (AFP) - Drivers of high-performance Porsche sports cars are more likely to play fast and loose by having extra-marital sex, according to a poll in the May edition of German motoring magazine Men's Car.

Might want to stick with the guy who drives the Toyota.

Golddiggers beware. HAMBURG, Germany (AFP)

Golddiggers beware.

HAMBURG, Germany (AFP) - Drivers of high-performance Porsche sports cars are more likely to play fast and loose by having extra-marital sex, according to a poll in the May edition of German motoring magazine Men's Car.

Might want to stick with the guy who drives the Toyota.

The Things That Suck Up

The Things That Suck Up Gandalf's Memory

My cousin sent me this last year when Martha was indicted. I didn't have a blog then.

I do now.

Heh.

The Things That Suck Up

The Things That Suck Up Gandalf's Memory

My cousin sent me this last year when Martha was indicted. I didn't have a blog then.

I do now.

Heh.

Monster Hostas I'm fiddling around

Monster Hostas

I'm fiddling around with this photo hosting software. Changes will be made while I'm trying to figure this whole thing out.

Monster Hostas I'm fiddling around

Monster Hostas

I'm fiddling around with this photo hosting software. Changes will be made while I'm trying to figure this whole thing out.

So, while I'm waiting for

So, while I'm waiting for the typists at the networks to get their fat
fingers moving so I can have a transcript of the President's speech,
let me note one thing:
Not one of the Big Five broadcasters---ABC, NBC, CBS, FOX, or
PBS---preempted their programming to show the President's speech. One
local affliate here in the Twin Cities, Kare11 the NBC affliate,
preempted "Fear Factor" to show the speech. And that's it.
If you didn't have cable or satellite, you were screwed if you wanted
to see the speech.
The media bleats on about the fact that the "President doesn't have a
clear plan for Iraq." He presents one and they don't cover it because
it interferes with their plans to rape their advertisers next fall.
And the media claims it isn't biased? To quote that immortal poet Wayne
Campbell: "Sha. Right. And monkeys might fly out of my ass."

So, while I'm waiting for

So, while I'm waiting for the typists at the networks to get their fat
fingers moving so I can have a transcript of the President's speech,
let me note one thing:
Not one of the Big Five broadcasters---ABC, NBC, CBS, FOX, or
PBS---preempted their programming to show the President's speech. One
local affliate here in the Twin Cities, Kare11 the NBC affliate,
preempted "Fear Factor" to show the speech. And that's it.
If you didn't have cable or satellite, you were screwed if you wanted
to see the speech.
The media bleats on about the fact that the "President doesn't have a
clear plan for Iraq." He presents one and they don't cover it because
it interferes with their plans to rape their advertisers next fall.
And the media claims it isn't biased? To quote that immortal poet Wayne
Campbell: "Sha. Right. And monkeys might fly out of my ass."

--- You know, until Saturday

--- You know, until Saturday afternoon I had no clue as to who Micah Wright was. Want the scoop---Michele, as usual, has it covered.
Scroll down to the bottom and read from there. Long story short: to not
catch flack for putting out repulsive anti-war posters, he said he was
a Vet. A Ranger to be precise. When the flack stopped coming his way,
he decided to take the lie even further and in every post he left on
multitudinous message boards kept up with the lie as a way of winning
the argument. Basically his argument was I
served, you didn't. I'm right. You're wrong. You have no business ever
saying anything about the war ever again because you never served.
This lie also helped him reap a book contract and a lot of publicity.
Then people got suspicious. His accounts didn't match up with the
truth. And eventually the Washington Post outed him. The blogosphere
has been up in arms about this one all weekend long. Now, I had no idea
who Micah Wright was before this weekend. But I did know a Ranger once
upon a time and I'm offended on her behalf because of this jerk. She
was my roommate for a summer in college. Her name was Sarah. I'm
ashamed to say I don't remember her last name, because she was very
cool, but I wasn't there very often and neither was she. The first time
I met her, I'd already moved in and wasn't there when she'd arrived. I
waited for days for her to arrive, but she'd apparently been delayed
because of a flight screwup. I went about my business and one hot
afternoon in late May, I walked into my room and was surprised to see a
slightly framed brunette standing there in her bra and a pair of
shorts, an open suitcase at her feet. She was in the middle of the
tricky process of removing a small white, surgical taped bandage from
her skin. Never one to be surprised at anything, she just looked up and
smiled and said, "You must be Kathy. It's nice to finally meet you,"
while she kept on with her work. After introducing myself and doing the
usual greeting thing, I watched her replace the old bandage with a
fresh one after applying a generous coating of Neosporin. She swiftly
and precisely taped it off and then threw her t-shirt back on. I
couldn't help but ask: "What happened?" The bandaged spot was a little
to the left and north of her left breast. It looked like it hurt. I
rubbed the same spot on my left breast, much in the same way a man will
reflexively grab himself when he sees another man get kicked in the
crotch. "I just got my jump wings,"
she replied nonchalantly. "Unfortunately, it got infected."
"What'd you do? Poke yourself with something when you were
parachuting?" I asked.
"Nope," she said laughingly. "Don't know much about Rangers, do you?"
There was no condescension in her question.
"No," I replied. "Well, when you get your jump wings, they don't attach
the backing to the pin when they award it to you. They hand it to you."
"Huh?" This made no sense. "I'm not getting it."
She just smiled and changed the subject. I let it go, but brought it up
to the husband later on and he nodded approvingly. "Kath," he said,
"They call it blood winging.
Her commander took the pin and instead of pinning it on her, he slammed
it into her...probably with a helmet or with his hand. And then he
probably handed her the backing to the pin. It's tradition. It's
probably a much tougher process with the Rangers than with other
branches." Damn. I thought, and had a great deal of respect for her for
enduring that. And over the summer, I gained a great deal of respect
for her. That was one tough, motivated chick. She was the only
female in her jump class, too. There was no way she could back down,
even if she had wanted to. Micah Wright, spineless simp that he is,
would have probably pissed himself at the mere thought of going through
that.

--- You know, until Saturday

--- You know, until Saturday afternoon I had no clue as to who Micah Wright was. Want the scoop---Michele, as usual, has it covered.
Scroll down to the bottom and read from there. Long story short: to not
catch flack for putting out repulsive anti-war posters, he said he was
a Vet. A Ranger to be precise. When the flack stopped coming his way,
he decided to take the lie even further and in every post he left on
multitudinous message boards kept up with the lie as a way of winning
the argument. Basically his argument was I
served, you didn't. I'm right. You're wrong. You have no business ever
saying anything about the war ever again because you never served.
This lie also helped him reap a book contract and a lot of publicity.
Then people got suspicious. His accounts didn't match up with the
truth. And eventually the Washington Post outed him. The blogosphere
has been up in arms about this one all weekend long. Now, I had no idea
who Micah Wright was before this weekend. But I did know a Ranger once
upon a time and I'm offended on her behalf because of this jerk. She
was my roommate for a summer in college. Her name was Sarah. I'm
ashamed to say I don't remember her last name, because she was very
cool, but I wasn't there very often and neither was she. The first time
I met her, I'd already moved in and wasn't there when she'd arrived. I
waited for days for her to arrive, but she'd apparently been delayed
because of a flight screwup. I went about my business and one hot
afternoon in late May, I walked into my room and was surprised to see a
slightly framed brunette standing there in her bra and a pair of
shorts, an open suitcase at her feet. She was in the middle of the
tricky process of removing a small white, surgical taped bandage from
her skin. Never one to be surprised at anything, she just looked up and
smiled and said, "You must be Kathy. It's nice to finally meet you,"
while she kept on with her work. After introducing myself and doing the
usual greeting thing, I watched her replace the old bandage with a
fresh one after applying a generous coating of Neosporin. She swiftly
and precisely taped it off and then threw her t-shirt back on. I
couldn't help but ask: "What happened?" The bandaged spot was a little
to the left and north of her left breast. It looked like it hurt. I
rubbed the same spot on my left breast, much in the same way a man will
reflexively grab himself when he sees another man get kicked in the
crotch. "I just got my jump wings,"
she replied nonchalantly. "Unfortunately, it got infected."
"What'd you do? Poke yourself with something when you were
parachuting?" I asked.
"Nope," she said laughingly. "Don't know much about Rangers, do you?"
There was no condescension in her question.
"No," I replied. "Well, when you get your jump wings, they don't attach
the backing to the pin when they award it to you. They hand it to you."
"Huh?" This made no sense. "I'm not getting it."
She just smiled and changed the subject. I let it go, but brought it up
to the husband later on and he nodded approvingly. "Kath," he said,
"They call it blood winging.
Her commander took the pin and instead of pinning it on her, he slammed
it into her...probably with a helmet or with his hand. And then he
probably handed her the backing to the pin. It's tradition. It's
probably a much tougher process with the Rangers than with other
branches." Damn. I thought, and had a great deal of respect for her for
enduring that. And over the summer, I gained a great deal of respect
for her. That was one tough, motivated chick. She was the only
female in her jump class, too. There was no way she could back down,
even if she had wanted to. Micah Wright, spineless simp that he is,
would have probably pissed himself at the mere thought of going through
that.

Agenda for the evening: 1.

Agenda for the evening:

1. Pizza
2. State of Play on BBCAmerica
3. Read.
In all truthfullness, this book is boring the hell out of me. Stalin.
Ugh. But I'm far enough into it now that I have to see where it goes,
even though I have a pretty good idea already. Have a lovely night.

Agenda for the evening: 1.

Agenda for the evening:

1. Pizza
2. State of Play on BBCAmerica
3. Read.
In all truthfullness, this book is boring the hell out of me. Stalin.
Ugh. But I'm far enough into it now that I have to see where it goes,
even though I have a pretty good idea already. Have a lovely night.

You can find the deluuuuuuuuusion

You can find the deluuuuuuuuusion here.

Time for Moore, an Academy Award winner for his gun-culture documentary ``Bowling for Columbine,'' to tell all on himself. ``There's a character that is often written about that is often times largely invented by the media, and it's called Michael Moore,'' said Moore, 50, whose previous credits include ``Roger & Me'' and the television shows ``TV Nation'' and ``The Awful Truth.'' ``It took me a few years to figure this out, but that guy isn't really me. ``I read things, negative things about my flaws or whatever. I go, you know, they don't have to make this stuff up. If anybody would just ask me, I have lots of things wrong with me.'' The awful truth about Moore: Work ethic. ``I'm lazy. I'm a lethargic individual. I strive to do nothing. ... I watch too much TV. Some days, I watch four, five hours of TV, just completely vegged out, completely zoned out.'' Reading habits. ``I don't read enough novels, I don't read enough fiction. I love to do that, and I don't take the time to do it. I'm not as well read as I should be on that level.'' Body and spirit. ``I clearly have put my health second. Taking care of myself is second to everything else I'm doing. That's a horribly stupid thing to do.'' Despite his pudginess, Moore said doctors routinely proclaim him in good health, though they admonish him, ```Mike, get up and walk around the block.' I don't do that.'' ``I don't take care of my spiritual needs as well as I should. I try to go to Mass as often as I can, but not out of some obligation, some rule of the church, a hierarchy that I completely disagree with. Its attitudes and policies and treatment of women. I come from the other end of Mel Gibson's Catholic church.'' Self image. ``I'm very shy, I'm very introverted. I think I was able to ask out one girl in high school, and I didn't do much better after high school, and I just had to wait around for people to ask me out. I can't stand looking at myself in a movie. ... I don't have enough of an ego. I read that (about his supposed egomania), but then I remember, that's that other Michael Moore.''

There's a pill out there for everything, right? Question of the day: is there a pill large enough that it could work on Michael Moore? UPDATE: Not only is Moore in need of psychiatric help, he's a founding member of the Copperhead Feyadeen. My homework's done, Mom. Can I go and watch TV now?

UPDATE 2: It would probably help if I learned how to spell
"fedayeen."

You can find the deluuuuuuuuusion

You can find the deluuuuuuuuusion here.

Time for Moore, an Academy Award winner for his gun-culture documentary ``Bowling for Columbine,'' to tell all on himself. ``There's a character that is often written about that is often times largely invented by the media, and it's called Michael Moore,'' said Moore, 50, whose previous credits include ``Roger & Me'' and the television shows ``TV Nation'' and ``The Awful Truth.'' ``It took me a few years to figure this out, but that guy isn't really me. ``I read things, negative things about my flaws or whatever. I go, you know, they don't have to make this stuff up. If anybody would just ask me, I have lots of things wrong with me.'' The awful truth about Moore: Work ethic. ``I'm lazy. I'm a lethargic individual. I strive to do nothing. ... I watch too much TV. Some days, I watch four, five hours of TV, just completely vegged out, completely zoned out.'' Reading habits. ``I don't read enough novels, I don't read enough fiction. I love to do that, and I don't take the time to do it. I'm not as well read as I should be on that level.'' Body and spirit. ``I clearly have put my health second. Taking care of myself is second to everything else I'm doing. That's a horribly stupid thing to do.'' Despite his pudginess, Moore said doctors routinely proclaim him in good health, though they admonish him, ```Mike, get up and walk around the block.' I don't do that.'' ``I don't take care of my spiritual needs as well as I should. I try to go to Mass as often as I can, but not out of some obligation, some rule of the church, a hierarchy that I completely disagree with. Its attitudes and policies and treatment of women. I come from the other end of Mel Gibson's Catholic church.'' Self image. ``I'm very shy, I'm very introverted. I think I was able to ask out one girl in high school, and I didn't do much better after high school, and I just had to wait around for people to ask me out. I can't stand looking at myself in a movie. ... I don't have enough of an ego. I read that (about his supposed egomania), but then I remember, that's that other Michael Moore.''

There's a pill out there for everything, right? Question of the day: is there a pill large enough that it could work on Michael Moore? UPDATE: Not only is Moore in need of psychiatric help, he's a founding member of the Copperhead Feyadeen. My homework's done, Mom. Can I go and watch TV now?

UPDATE 2: It would probably help if I learned how to spell
"fedayeen."

This is just freaking horrible.

This is just freaking horrible. (Courtesy of one of Michele's commenters)
Everyone has been ranting and raving about this all day long. The
general replies are twofold: I'm glad I've got the originals on VHS and
Lucas will have to pry them out of my cold dead fingers to get them
back and that the fat cat is where he is because of us; that they're
our movies, too, etc. I've just got one point to add: when's he going
to edit out the work of an actor who's still living? Sebastian Shaw died in 1994.
So far, he's only fooled with bits and pieces related to CGI wonders
and has fiddled with the plot to make it more kiddie-friendly(HAN SHOT
FIRST, DAMNIT!). Now he's descrating the work of a man who cannot
object to this treatment because he's no longer with us. If that's not
the ultimate cheap shot, I don't know what is.

This is just freaking horrible.

This is just freaking horrible. (Courtesy of one of Michele's commenters)
Everyone has been ranting and raving about this all day long. The
general replies are twofold: I'm glad I've got the originals on VHS and
Lucas will have to pry them out of my cold dead fingers to get them
back and that the fat cat is where he is because of us; that they're
our movies, too, etc. I've just got one point to add: when's he going
to edit out the work of an actor who's still living? Sebastian Shaw died in 1994.
So far, he's only fooled with bits and pieces related to CGI wonders
and has fiddled with the plot to make it more kiddie-friendly(HAN SHOT
FIRST, DAMNIT!). Now he's descrating the work of a man who cannot
object to this treatment because he's no longer with us. If that's not
the ultimate cheap shot, I don't know what is.

--- Looney Toon fans beware.

--- Looney Toon fans beware. I'm about to do some desecrating. I
noticed a long time ago that "Jaques Chirac" rhymed rather well with
"Blaque Jacques Shellaque." You remember Blaque Jacques from when he
did battle with Bugs in the Yukon, right? Well, seeing as how he's
French (ok, Quebecois if you insist on cartoon nationalistic purity),
and how their names rhyme, I thought it might be fun to play with
graphics. Ok, well, the husband played with the graphics because I'm no
good at it. Without further ado...Blacque Jacques Chirac

If someone wants to improve on it, by all means, go for it.

--- Looney Toon fans beware.

--- Looney Toon fans beware. I'm about to do some desecrating. I
noticed a long time ago that "Jaques Chirac" rhymed rather well with
"Blaque Jacques Shellaque." You remember Blaque Jacques from when he
did battle with Bugs in the Yukon, right? Well, seeing as how he's
French (ok, Quebecois if you insist on cartoon nationalistic purity),
and how their names rhyme, I thought it might be fun to play with
graphics. Ok, well, the husband played with the graphics because I'm no
good at it. Without further ado...Blacque Jacques Chirac

If someone wants to improve on it, by all means, go for it.

Oh. Whoops. That was Ricky

Oh. Whoops. That was Ricky Martin. Not Marc Anthony.
But it works, right? {audience nods collective head} See! That's what I
thought. I'll be damned if I'm going to throw away a perfectly good
quip due to problems with accuracy when it involves a story about JLo.

Oh. Whoops. That was Ricky

Oh. Whoops. That was Ricky Martin. Not Marc Anthony.
But it works, right? {audience nods collective head} See! That's what I
thought. I'll be damned if I'm going to throw away a perfectly good
quip due to problems with accuracy when it involves a story about JLo.

This went off without a

This went
off without a hitch. A long and happy life to them and a hearty
congratulations to the security services of Denmark for a job well
done.
What worries me, however, is a wedding that's happening next week. In Madrid.

This went off without a

This went
off without a hitch. A long and happy life to them and a hearty
congratulations to the security services of Denmark for a job well
done.
What worries me, however, is a wedding that's happening next week. In Madrid.

You'd better leave my clotted

You'd better leave my clotted cream fudge alone, jerk-off.

Dr Geof Rayner, the former chairman of the UK Public Health Association (UKPHA), said that a national ban on television commercials that promote junk food, such as burgers and fizzy drinks, would be ineffective because of widespread and growing access to satellite TV. His comments came after the Commons health select committee today recommended a voluntary ban on TV commercials promoting unhealthy food in a damning report on Britain's obesity epidemic. He said: "In order to impose any limit on the amount of junk food advertisements for children we must tackle it at the European level. In Sweden they have a ban on marketing to children but a lot comes in through satellite TV, so the food industry can usurp the national ban." Dr Rayner, who sits on the UKPHA council, also called on the government to address European Union (EU) subsidies for unhealthy foods. He said that 48% of the European commission's budget went on subsidies to the food industry, but this funding took no account of how healthy the food produced was. "The EU shouldn't be subsidising fats and sugars. Subsidies need to go towards those parts of the industry which are producing healthy foods. The UK government could take the lead there and conduct a health impact assessment on the European common agricultural policy."

Fudge does not equal cigarettes.

{Mmmmm. Fuuuudddge}

You'd better leave my clotted

You'd better leave my clotted cream fudge alone, jerk-off.

Dr Geof Rayner, the former chairman of the UK Public Health Association (UKPHA), said that a national ban on television commercials that promote junk food, such as burgers and fizzy drinks, would be ineffective because of widespread and growing access to satellite TV. His comments came after the Commons health select committee today recommended a voluntary ban on TV commercials promoting unhealthy food in a damning report on Britain's obesity epidemic. He said: "In order to impose any limit on the amount of junk food advertisements for children we must tackle it at the European level. In Sweden they have a ban on marketing to children but a lot comes in through satellite TV, so the food industry can usurp the national ban." Dr Rayner, who sits on the UKPHA council, also called on the government to address European Union (EU) subsidies for unhealthy foods. He said that 48% of the European commission's budget went on subsidies to the food industry, but this funding took no account of how healthy the food produced was. "The EU shouldn't be subsidising fats and sugars. Subsidies need to go towards those parts of the industry which are producing healthy foods. The UK government could take the lead there and conduct a health impact assessment on the European common agricultural policy."

Fudge does not equal cigarettes.

{Mmmmm. Fuuuudddge}

--- There's a hooker convention

--- There's a hooker convention going
on in Hong Kong.
But nowhere in your litany of suggested improvements for prostitutes do
you mention that perhaps---ahem--- PEOPLE SHOULDN'T HAVE TO SELL THEIR
BODIES TO PAY THE GODDAMN RENT! Grrrrrr.

--- There's a hooker convention

--- There's a hooker convention going
on in Hong Kong.
But nowhere in your litany of suggested improvements for prostitutes do
you mention that perhaps---ahem--- PEOPLE SHOULDN'T HAVE TO SELL THEIR
BODIES TO PAY THE GODDAMN RENT! Grrrrrr.

--- Well, this explains Trinity's

--- Well, this explains Trinity's supposed affection for catsuits.

Gives a whole new meaning to the term "residual self image," doesn't it?

(hat tip: Jeff)

somewhere Carrie Ann Moss is laughing hysterically and
is saying, "Now you can slap on the patent leather catsuit, bitch, and
be the one to contract a yeast infection! Asshole!"

--- Well, this explains Trinity's

--- Well, this explains Trinity's supposed affection for catsuits.

Gives a whole new meaning to the term "residual self image," doesn't it?

(hat tip: Jeff)

somewhere Carrie Ann Moss is laughing hysterically and
is saying, "Now you can slap on the patent leather catsuit, bitch, and
be the one to contract a yeast infection! Asshole!"

Pollen As in I dusted

Pollen

As in I dusted the Cake Eater Apartment earlier and when I was done, my dustrag was green.

*^%#@$% oak trees.

Pollen As in I dusted

Pollen

As in I dusted the Cake Eater Apartment earlier and when I was done, my dustrag was green.

*^%#@$% oak trees.

If you were a man,

If you were a man, and I was still single, I'd marry you.

Sincerely,

Kathleen Nelson
Cake Eater Chronicles.

P.S. Wow? Great? Great? Wow?

If you were a man,

If you were a man, and I was still single, I'd marry you.

Sincerely,

Kathleen Nelson
Cake Eater Chronicles.

P.S. Wow? Great? Great? Wow?

Two examples of just how

Two examples of just how friggin' weird, at times, it is to live here.
1. Bumper sticker spotted on a Hunter Green Chrysler Town and Country
(with all the trimmings)at 50th and Xerxes.
I'm Doing My Part to Piss Off Right Wing Radicals!Congratulations,
asshole. But, far be it from me to point out the fact you didn't
achieve that goal by the righteousness of your political viewpoint. You
did that by not turning on your turn signal and subsequently blocking
traffic because you were too busy pontificating with your hands while
you sat in the middle of the intersection.
Moron.
2. I live across a busy street from a Lutheran Church. They're big on
"community involvement," and since their church has a nice flow-through
driveway, they loan the front driveway out to whatever youth group from
the nearby high school that needs a spot to hold a car wash. They do
this on a regular basis during the warmer months. It's never a good
sign when there are kids over there on a Friday afternoon. This means
that Friday after school was the only slot available on the schedule.
Come tomorrow, there will be at least three different student clubs
holding car washes all damn day long.
We've lived here for five years. The pattern has become obvious. Three
things that make this an annoying addition to spring.
1. The kids scream their lungs out at cars that are flying by at 40
mph. There is no way in hell the cars can stop. If they would just go
two blocks down and did their thing at the stoplight, they'd get more
cars than they could handle. Apparently, though, they don't teach logic
at Minneapolis Public High Schools. 2. The cars that fly by at 40 mph
always honk when they see the nubile bikini-clad teenage girls standing
on the street, trying to lure customers like a hooker lures a john. And
they honk frequently and loudly.
3. The church apparently has NO issues with the fact that there are
nubile bikini-clad teenage girls out on the corner trying to lure
easily led men into their parking lot. Yeah, that's Christianity for
you. As long as it's all for a good cause. I need a glass of wine.
BADLY.
UPDATE Just walked to the drugstore and back. The student
organization du jour is the Track and Field team. No girls in bikinis
this time round: however, there are plenty of VERY skinny, very
shirtless teenage boys lining the street, their car wash signs placed
strategically to make it seem as if they're naked. It's a pedophile's
wet dream.
Don't they have @#@!#$! bake sales anymore?

Two examples of just how

Two examples of just how friggin' weird, at times, it is to live here.
1. Bumper sticker spotted on a Hunter Green Chrysler Town and Country
(with all the trimmings)at 50th and Xerxes.
I'm Doing My Part to Piss Off Right Wing Radicals!Congratulations,
asshole. But, far be it from me to point out the fact you didn't
achieve that goal by the righteousness of your political viewpoint. You
did that by not turning on your turn signal and subsequently blocking
traffic because you were too busy pontificating with your hands while
you sat in the middle of the intersection.
Moron.
2. I live across a busy street from a Lutheran Church. They're big on
"community involvement," and since their church has a nice flow-through
driveway, they loan the front driveway out to whatever youth group from
the nearby high school that needs a spot to hold a car wash. They do
this on a regular basis during the warmer months. It's never a good
sign when there are kids over there on a Friday afternoon. This means
that Friday after school was the only slot available on the schedule.
Come tomorrow, there will be at least three different student clubs
holding car washes all damn day long.
We've lived here for five years. The pattern has become obvious. Three
things that make this an annoying addition to spring.
1. The kids scream their lungs out at cars that are flying by at 40
mph. There is no way in hell the cars can stop. If they would just go
two blocks down and did their thing at the stoplight, they'd get more
cars than they could handle. Apparently, though, they don't teach logic
at Minneapolis Public High Schools. 2. The cars that fly by at 40 mph
always honk when they see the nubile bikini-clad teenage girls standing
on the street, trying to lure customers like a hooker lures a john. And
they honk frequently and loudly.
3. The church apparently has NO issues with the fact that there are
nubile bikini-clad teenage girls out on the corner trying to lure
easily led men into their parking lot. Yeah, that's Christianity for
you. As long as it's all for a good cause. I need a glass of wine.
BADLY.
UPDATE Just walked to the drugstore and back. The student
organization du jour is the Track and Field team. No girls in bikinis
this time round: however, there are plenty of VERY skinny, very
shirtless teenage boys lining the street, their car wash signs placed
strategically to make it seem as if they're naked. It's a pedophile's
wet dream.
Don't they have @#@!#$! bake sales anymore?

Apparently the UN Department of

Apparently the UN Department of Public Information would like the media
to start covering some stories they believe are underreported. They
have ten recommendations, just to get the media started.

Uganda: Child soldiers at centre of mounting humanitarian crisis Central African Republic: a silent crisis crying out for help AIDS orphans in sub-Saharan Africa: a looming threat to future generations The peacekeeping paradox: as peace spreads, surge in demand strains UN resources Tajikistan: rising from the ashes of civil war Women as peacemakers: from victims to re-builders of society Persons with disabilities: a treaty seeks to break new ground in ensuring equality Bakassi Peninsula: Recourse to the law to prevent conflict Overfishing: a threat to marine biodiversity Indigenous peoples living in voluntary isolation

While I will agree that these stories could use more coverage, I have a list for the media as well.

1. UNSCAM.
2. UNSCAM
3. Benon Sevon and the fact he's keeping his diplomatic immunity
4. UNSCAM
5. UN Peacekeepers horrible human rights record.
6. The UN's failure in Sudan. Darfur in particular and the UN's horrific policy of not letting those on foot enter refugee camps.
7. UNSCAM
8. Lakhdar Brahimi's latent pro-Palestinian position
9. Sudan's election to the UN human rights commission
10. UNSCAM

Apparently the UN Department of

Apparently the UN Department of Public Information would like the media
to start covering some stories they believe are underreported. They
have ten recommendations, just to get the media started.

Uganda: Child soldiers at centre of mounting humanitarian crisis Central African Republic: a silent crisis crying out for help AIDS orphans in sub-Saharan Africa: a looming threat to future generations The peacekeeping paradox: as peace spreads, surge in demand strains UN resources Tajikistan: rising from the ashes of civil war Women as peacemakers: from victims to re-builders of society Persons with disabilities: a treaty seeks to break new ground in ensuring equality Bakassi Peninsula: Recourse to the law to prevent conflict Overfishing: a threat to marine biodiversity Indigenous peoples living in voluntary isolation

While I will agree that these stories could use more coverage, I have a list for the media as well.

1. UNSCAM.
2. UNSCAM
3. Benon Sevon and the fact he's keeping his diplomatic immunity
4. UNSCAM
5. UN Peacekeepers horrible human rights record.
6. The UN's failure in Sudan. Darfur in particular and the UN's horrific policy of not letting those on foot enter refugee camps.
7. UNSCAM
8. Lakhdar Brahimi's latent pro-Palestinian position
9. Sudan's election to the UN human rights commission
10. UNSCAM

Iraq's Navy Sucks... And The

Iraq's Navy Sucks...

And The US Navy Rules!

HELLO SAILORS!
{BIG bonus points to Mr. H. for passing that one along!}

Iraq's Navy Sucks... And The

Iraq's Navy Sucks...

And The US Navy Rules!

HELLO SAILORS!
{BIG bonus points to Mr. H. for passing that one along!}

If you people kill off

If you people kill off Donna tonight, I'm NEVER watching your piddly little show ever again.

Don't piss me off.

If you people kill off

If you people kill off Donna tonight, I'm NEVER watching your piddly little show ever again.

Don't piss me off.

MELBOURNE, Australia — Kiss bassist

MELBOURNE, Australia — Kiss bassist Gene Simmons has sparked outrage in Australia with comments seen as attacking Islam. "This is a vile culture and if you think for a second that it's willing to just live in the sands of God's armpit you've got another thing coming," Simmons said during an interview on Melbourne's 3AW radio Thursday. "They want to come and live right where you live and they think that you're evil." The Western world was under threat from extremists and a culture that treated women worse than dogs, he claimed in a segment of the interview that touched on the war in Iraq. "You can send your dog to school to learn tricks, sit, beg, do all that stuff — none of the women have that advantage," the 54-year-old said. Angry Muslims flooded the radio station with calls, furious over Simmons' comments.

Note to the radio producers in Melbourne: The guy's got a tongue the size of Kilmanjaro. Did you honestly expect he was going to keep it civil when he sat down for an interview? The sheer size of that monster pretty much negates the possibility of keeping it quiet. It simply can't be put on a leash. That said, Gene, this is the only thing you've ever said or done that I've ever agreed with or liked. Way to Go! Particularly enjoyed the bit about "living in the sands of God's armpit."

MELBOURNE, Australia — Kiss bassist

MELBOURNE, Australia — Kiss bassist Gene Simmons has sparked outrage in Australia with comments seen as attacking Islam. "This is a vile culture and if you think for a second that it's willing to just live in the sands of God's armpit you've got another thing coming," Simmons said during an interview on Melbourne's 3AW radio Thursday. "They want to come and live right where you live and they think that you're evil." The Western world was under threat from extremists and a culture that treated women worse than dogs, he claimed in a segment of the interview that touched on the war in Iraq. "You can send your dog to school to learn tricks, sit, beg, do all that stuff — none of the women have that advantage," the 54-year-old said. Angry Muslims flooded the radio station with calls, furious over Simmons' comments.

Note to the radio producers in Melbourne: The guy's got a tongue the size of Kilmanjaro. Did you honestly expect he was going to keep it civil when he sat down for an interview? The sheer size of that monster pretty much negates the possibility of keeping it quiet. It simply can't be put on a leash. That said, Gene, this is the only thing you've ever said or done that I've ever agreed with or liked. Way to Go! Particularly enjoyed the bit about "living in the sands of God's armpit."

--- Bashir let the UN

--- Bashir let the UN guys in.

Hmph.

UNITED NATIONS (Reuters) - A scorched-earth campaign by Arab
militias to drive black Africans out of Sudan's Darfur region has
spread in its wake hunger, homelessness and deprivation so crippling it
is common to find three women sharing a single dress, senior U.N.
officials said on Friday. "One, there is a rein of terror in this area.
Two, there is a scorched-earth policy. Three, there are repeated war
crimes and crimes against humanity, and four, this is taking place
before our very eyes," said Bertrand Ramcharan, the acting U.N. high
commissioner for human rights. Ramcharan and James Morris, head of the
World Food Program, spoke to reporters after briefing the 15-nation
Security Council on twin U.N. missions they led to the region after
Sudan's government, which has played down the crisis and denied
responsibility, invited them in after initially balking.

I'm not impressed.

Why? The reason is listed in the next paragraph.

Sudan, backed by Arab and African governments and Russia, had
lobbied hard to keep its internal affairs off the council agenda,
obliging it to discuss the crisis in a closed session without any
public signal it was doing so.
We all know the Security Council is all about transparency. /sarcasm
I would lay you pretty favorable odds that Bashir isn't the least bit
worried about what the UN might do. He knows the UN is all talk. He's
put them off in one way or another for over twenty years in regard to
the civil war in the south. He knows the UN's M.O. He had nothing to
fear by letting them in to see what was what: Sudan, it seems, has
friends in high places on the Security Council that will prevent
anything being done about Darfur. And nothing will be done---by the UN
at least. Just like nothing was done about Southern Sudan until the US
got involved post-9/11.
Russia's active involvement is curious, though. Total Fina Elf has a goodly chunk of oil concessions lined
up for a post-civil war Sudan. Bashir, however, wants to gain momentum
on developing his country's astounding natural resources before the
SPLM has the ability to get their fingers into the pie---and if the
Russians can help them to do that, why, gracious! That's good for Sudan
and good for Russia. What we have here are all the ingredients of
another Iraq. Brutal dictator. An Islamic government trying to force
their will on non-Muslims. Fossil fuel rich country. Ethnic cleansing.
Internal strife and an overwhelming desire to keep the international
community out of it. But Sudan is in Africa. If this were playing out
in the Middle East, you could bet that Bush and company would be all
over it.

--- Bashir let the UN

--- Bashir let the UN guys in.

Hmph.

UNITED NATIONS (Reuters) - A scorched-earth campaign by Arab
militias to drive black Africans out of Sudan's Darfur region has
spread in its wake hunger, homelessness and deprivation so crippling it
is common to find three women sharing a single dress, senior U.N.
officials said on Friday. "One, there is a rein of terror in this area.
Two, there is a scorched-earth policy. Three, there are repeated war
crimes and crimes against humanity, and four, this is taking place
before our very eyes," said Bertrand Ramcharan, the acting U.N. high
commissioner for human rights. Ramcharan and James Morris, head of the
World Food Program, spoke to reporters after briefing the 15-nation
Security Council on twin U.N. missions they led to the region after
Sudan's government, which has played down the crisis and denied
responsibility, invited them in after initially balking.

I'm not impressed.

Why? The reason is listed in the next paragraph.

Sudan, backed by Arab and African governments and Russia, had
lobbied hard to keep its internal affairs off the council agenda,
obliging it to discuss the crisis in a closed session without any
public signal it was doing so.
We all know the Security Council is all about transparency. /sarcasm
I would lay you pretty favorable odds that Bashir isn't the least bit
worried about what the UN might do. He knows the UN is all talk. He's
put them off in one way or another for over twenty years in regard to
the civil war in the south. He knows the UN's M.O. He had nothing to
fear by letting them in to see what was what: Sudan, it seems, has
friends in high places on the Security Council that will prevent
anything being done about Darfur. And nothing will be done---by the UN
at least. Just like nothing was done about Southern Sudan until the US
got involved post-9/11.
Russia's active involvement is curious, though. Total Fina Elf has a goodly chunk of oil concessions lined
up for a post-civil war Sudan. Bashir, however, wants to gain momentum
on developing his country's astounding natural resources before the
SPLM has the ability to get their fingers into the pie---and if the
Russians can help them to do that, why, gracious! That's good for Sudan
and good for Russia. What we have here are all the ingredients of
another Iraq. Brutal dictator. An Islamic government trying to force
their will on non-Muslims. Fossil fuel rich country. Ethnic cleansing.
Internal strife and an overwhelming desire to keep the international
community out of it. But Sudan is in Africa. If this were playing out
in the Middle East, you could bet that Bush and company would be all
over it.

The Baghdad Blog, a book

The Baghdad Blog, a book based on an online diary written by an Iraqi man about life during the conflict there, is to be made into a film. Media group Intermedia is searching for a scriptwriter to adapt the book by the man, who calls himself Salam Pax. "He's like a Nick Hornby in the middle of a war," Scott Kroopf, chairman of the company's film division, told film industry website ScreenDaily.com. Salam Pax's diary, Dear Raed, became an internet sensation during the Iraq war.

Source:BBC

So, habibi, you got a movie deal. Good for you.

Just one question, though. Do you think any of this would have been possible if the US hadn't invaded?

The Baghdad Blog, a book

The Baghdad Blog, a book based on an online diary written by an Iraqi man about life during the conflict there, is to be made into a film. Media group Intermedia is searching for a scriptwriter to adapt the book by the man, who calls himself Salam Pax. "He's like a Nick Hornby in the middle of a war," Scott Kroopf, chairman of the company's film division, told film industry website ScreenDaily.com. Salam Pax's diary, Dear Raed, became an internet sensation during the Iraq war.

Source:BBC

So, habibi, you got a movie deal. Good for you.

Just one question, though. Do you think any of this would have been possible if the US hadn't invaded?

Hot Damn! The husband---the ultimate

Hot Damn!

The husband---the ultimate Star Wars Galaxies freak---finally made it back to the moons of Endor in the game. You might remember, a while back, I was shafted in my efforts to slay an Ewok.
He's been busy with his harvesters on Talus. He's also the mayor of
Ba'aar, so he's got a few politician things to take care of other than
slaughtering Ewoks. But I just slayed four of those furry, fat rats.

I feel good. I feel, dare I say it, justified.
I can now go about my business with the righteous swagger of a slayer
of unintelligible furry little rodents who ruined a perfectly good
trilogy. FOUR of those furry little rodents are dead because of ME!

Heh.

Hot Damn! The husband---the ultimate

Hot Damn!

The husband---the ultimate Star Wars Galaxies freak---finally made it back to the moons of Endor in the game. You might remember, a while back, I was shafted in my efforts to slay an Ewok.
He's been busy with his harvesters on Talus. He's also the mayor of
Ba'aar, so he's got a few politician things to take care of other than
slaughtering Ewoks. But I just slayed four of those furry, fat rats.

I feel good. I feel, dare I say it, justified.
I can now go about my business with the righteous swagger of a slayer
of unintelligible furry little rodents who ruined a perfectly good
trilogy. FOUR of those furry little rodents are dead because of ME!

Heh.

--- It's quiet around here.

--- It's quiet around here. Blessedly quiet. I just returned from
driving the husband downtown. He had a meeting with some intellectual
property lawyers, but he didn't feel like parking or dealing with rush
hour traffic on the way back, so he's taking the bus home. It's pretty
convenient, on the whole. But since he's absent, and it's quiet, I'm
going to go and edit the manuscript, so no more blogging until this
evening. Anyway, two observations from the trip downtown.
a. My car---Nellie---is not long for this world. Her rear suspension is
going to bust through the trunk and backseat any day now. One
well-placed, small-child sized pothole should achieve the task. (Trust
me, they're everywhere. A Minnesota winter is not kind to concrete.)
Her transmission is also slipping badly between 45 and 50 mph, which of
course says nothing of the hole in the gas tank. I'm surprised she
hasn't already succumbed, but that would be Nellie. She's been a good
car, considering we bought her four years ago for $800 and have taken
her from 218,000 miles to 242,792. She has always started up on the
first try, she's incredibly reliable---it's just that her body is
rusted to hell and back that's the problem. Nellie is a 1982 Toyota
Camry---white, four door, automatic and with a radio that still works
(only you can't see what station you're on---the display has crapped
out, so you have to find radio stations by developing a keen sense of
marketing audience and by utilizing your DJ knowledge---Remy Maxwell is
on 93, Brian Oakes is on 97, etc.). She outlasted our fling with
Marie---a beeeyoootiful Audi A6---and enjoyed the four month respite
Marie provided. She's an truly amazing automobile. When we bought her,
a friend of mine complimented us on our choice---despite the fact that
Nellie truly looks like a piece of shit---saying the body would wear
out before the engine quit running. And as fate would have it, he was
correct. Nellie's spirit is willing but her flesh is weak. In essence,
she's the Grandma Mazur of cars.
Nellie has been there for us in good times and in bad times---which is
saying something because as far as automobiles are concerned, we have
the *worst* track record. Fortunately though, Nellie doesn't care about
any of that. She's a true friend. She's the person that no matter how
long you haven't chatted with them, will always come down to the jail
and bail you out if you should need it. She takes no offense to the
fact you haven't pampered her: she realizes she's not worth it. We try
not to tax her or to take advantage of her friendship because we
realize that she just can't make it around all that well. She's been a
friend for friendship's sake. And I will miss her when she goes. b. I
have finally lived here long enough that I can get in and out of
downtown without missing the entrance to the freeway!
It only took eight years for me to accomplish this! HA!

--- It's quiet around here.

--- It's quiet around here. Blessedly quiet. I just returned from
driving the husband downtown. He had a meeting with some intellectual
property lawyers, but he didn't feel like parking or dealing with rush
hour traffic on the way back, so he's taking the bus home. It's pretty
convenient, on the whole. But since he's absent, and it's quiet, I'm
going to go and edit the manuscript, so no more blogging until this
evening. Anyway, two observations from the trip downtown.
a. My car---Nellie---is not long for this world. Her rear suspension is
going to bust through the trunk and backseat any day now. One
well-placed, small-child sized pothole should achieve the task. (Trust
me, they're everywhere. A Minnesota winter is not kind to concrete.)
Her transmission is also slipping badly between 45 and 50 mph, which of
course says nothing of the hole in the gas tank. I'm surprised she
hasn't already succumbed, but that would be Nellie. She's been a good
car, considering we bought her four years ago for $800 and have taken
her from 218,000 miles to 242,792. She has always started up on the
first try, she's incredibly reliable---it's just that her body is
rusted to hell and back that's the problem. Nellie is a 1982 Toyota
Camry---white, four door, automatic and with a radio that still works
(only you can't see what station you're on---the display has crapped
out, so you have to find radio stations by developing a keen sense of
marketing audience and by utilizing your DJ knowledge---Remy Maxwell is
on 93, Brian Oakes is on 97, etc.). She outlasted our fling with
Marie---a beeeyoootiful Audi A6---and enjoyed the four month respite
Marie provided. She's an truly amazing automobile. When we bought her,
a friend of mine complimented us on our choice---despite the fact that
Nellie truly looks like a piece of shit---saying the body would wear
out before the engine quit running. And as fate would have it, he was
correct. Nellie's spirit is willing but her flesh is weak. In essence,
she's the Grandma Mazur of cars.
Nellie has been there for us in good times and in bad times---which is
saying something because as far as automobiles are concerned, we have
the *worst* track record. Fortunately though, Nellie doesn't care about
any of that. She's a true friend. She's the person that no matter how
long you haven't chatted with them, will always come down to the jail
and bail you out if you should need it. She takes no offense to the
fact you haven't pampered her: she realizes she's not worth it. We try
not to tax her or to take advantage of her friendship because we
realize that she just can't make it around all that well. She's been a
friend for friendship's sake. And I will miss her when she goes. b. I
have finally lived here long enough that I can get in and out of
downtown without missing the entrance to the freeway!
It only took eight years for me to accomplish this! HA!

I have a great camera

I have a great camera with great resolution, so as you might imagine,
it's somewhat distressing to me that with the small size of these
photos, you lose something in the conversion. Know that if you click on
the photo you will get a bigger size that will show more details. On
the whole, though, this free photo hosting is pretty damn cool.

I have a great camera

I have a great camera with great resolution, so as you might imagine,
it's somewhat distressing to me that with the small size of these
photos, you lose something in the conversion. Know that if you click on
the photo you will get a bigger size that will show more details. On
the whole, though, this free photo hosting is pretty damn cool.

That last post is going

That last post is going to bring the freaks out of the woodwork.

Sigh.

That last post is going

That last post is going to bring the freaks out of the woodwork.

Sigh.

More Turtles Doing Their Thing

More Turtles Doing Their Thing

More Turtles Doing Their Thing

More Turtles Doing Their Thing

Yet Another Fountain At the

Yet Another Fountain At the Rose Garden

Yet Another Fountain At the

Yet Another Fountain At the Rose Garden

More Tulips

More Tulips

More Tulips

More Tulips

Tulip

Tulip

Tulip

Tulip

He Kinda Reminds Me of

He Kinda Reminds Me of a Dr. Seuss Character

He Kinda Reminds Me of

He Kinda Reminds Me of a Dr. Seuss Character

Rose Garden Fountain

Rose Garden Fountain

Rose Garden Fountain

Rose Garden Fountain

Mr. Little Guy is Back

Mr. Little Guy is Back For The Summer.

Mr. Little Guy is Back

Mr. Little Guy is Back For The Summer.

I keep forgetting to post

I keep forgetting to post this.

KUWAIT (Reuters) - Kuwait's cabinet approved a draft law Sunday allowing women to vote and run in parliamentary polls, moving them a step closer to full political rights they have sought for decades in the conservative Gulf Arab state. The draft needs parliament's approval to pass into law. A decree issued by Emir Sheikh Jaber al-Ahmad al-Sabah giving women the vote was narrowly defeated in the 50-man house in 1999 by an alliance of Islamist and conservative tribal MPs. Kuwaiti women have been fighting for suffrage for more than 40 years, only to be blocked by Islamists and male politicians. "The council (of ministers) decided to approve the draft law and transfer it to the Emir, God protect him, in order to transfer it to the National Assembly," a cabinet statement said.

Keep your fingers crossed.

I keep forgetting to post

I keep forgetting to post this.

KUWAIT (Reuters) - Kuwait's cabinet approved a draft law Sunday allowing women to vote and run in parliamentary polls, moving them a step closer to full political rights they have sought for decades in the conservative Gulf Arab state. The draft needs parliament's approval to pass into law. A decree issued by Emir Sheikh Jaber al-Ahmad al-Sabah giving women the vote was narrowly defeated in the 50-man house in 1999 by an alliance of Islamist and conservative tribal MPs. Kuwaiti women have been fighting for suffrage for more than 40 years, only to be blocked by Islamists and male politicians. "The council (of ministers) decided to approve the draft law and transfer it to the Emir, God protect him, in order to transfer it to the National Assembly," a cabinet statement said.

Keep your fingers crossed.

Downtown Minneapolis Skyline Replete With

Downtown
Minneapolis Skyline Replete With Canoe

Downtown Minneapolis Skyline Replete With

Downtown
Minneapolis Skyline Replete With Canoe

FOUR AND A @#%&$@! QUARTER

FOUR AND A @#%&$@! QUARTER FOR A GALLON OF MILK!

Milk shortage, my ass. This is the fault of all those Atkins dieters.

FOUR AND A @#%&$@! QUARTER

FOUR AND A @#%&$@! QUARTER FOR A GALLON OF MILK!

Milk shortage, my ass. This is the fault of all those Atkins dieters.

But tomorrow and the rest

But tomorrow and the rest of the three day weekend is supposed to suck
in metorological terminology. So the husband and I went over to Lake
Harriet this afternoon and I brought the camera along.
Pictures forthcoming.

But tomorrow and the rest

But tomorrow and the rest of the three day weekend is supposed to suck
in metorological terminology. So the husband and I went over to Lake
Harriet this afternoon and I brought the camera along.
Pictures forthcoming.

Get over it already. DUBLIN

Get over it already.

DUBLIN (Reuters) - Four months after Janet Jackson outraged the United States by bearing her breast on TV, Ireland has banned a video to encourage voting in next month's European elections because it shows a bare nipple. In Britain, where bare breasts are shown daily in tabloids, the film will be shown in censored form. The breast-feeding sequence survives but shots of the offending nipple have been edited out. The 45-second film was produced by the European Parliament's audio-visual department and shows a suckling baby trying to decide which of its mother's breasts to feed from. The idea is to show people making choices -- like voters at the ballot box. While the sight of a baby suckling at its mother's breast is considered acceptable for hundreds of millions of other Europeans, Irish officials believe it would cause offence in Roman Catholic Ireland. "I decided that due to sensitivities here, this is not the right image to promote anything in Ireland, unless it is of a medical or scientific nature," the head of the European Parliament's Irish office, Jim O'Brien, said.

Boobies. Boobies. Boobies. Boobies. Boobies. Boobies.
Boobies. Boobies. Boobies. Boobies. Boobies. Boobies.
Boobies. Boobies. Boobies. Boobies. Boobies. Boobies.

Nipples. Nipples. Nipples. Nipples. Nipples. Nipples.
Nipples. Nipples. Nipples. Nipples. Nipples. Nipples.
Nipples. Nipples. Nipples. Nipples. Nipples. Nipples.

There. Are you desensitized enough yet? If not go here. Or I can start typing again.

Your choice.

Get over it already. DUBLIN

Get over it already.

DUBLIN (Reuters) - Four months after Janet Jackson outraged the United States by bearing her breast on TV, Ireland has banned a video to encourage voting in next month's European elections because it shows a bare nipple. In Britain, where bare breasts are shown daily in tabloids, the film will be shown in censored form. The breast-feeding sequence survives but shots of the offending nipple have been edited out. The 45-second film was produced by the European Parliament's audio-visual department and shows a suckling baby trying to decide which of its mother's breasts to feed from. The idea is to show people making choices -- like voters at the ballot box. While the sight of a baby suckling at its mother's breast is considered acceptable for hundreds of millions of other Europeans, Irish officials believe it would cause offence in Roman Catholic Ireland. "I decided that due to sensitivities here, this is not the right image to promote anything in Ireland, unless it is of a medical or scientific nature," the head of the European Parliament's Irish office, Jim O'Brien, said.

Boobies. Boobies. Boobies. Boobies. Boobies. Boobies.
Boobies. Boobies. Boobies. Boobies. Boobies. Boobies.
Boobies. Boobies. Boobies. Boobies. Boobies. Boobies.

Nipples. Nipples. Nipples. Nipples. Nipples. Nipples.
Nipples. Nipples. Nipples. Nipples. Nipples. Nipples.
Nipples. Nipples. Nipples. Nipples. Nipples. Nipples.

There. Are you desensitized enough yet? If not go here. Or I can start typing again.

Your choice.

I haven't written anything about

I haven't written anything about the Abu Ghraib scandal because what I
would have written about the scandal itself had been said better
elsewhere. A quick synopsis of my thoughts on the matter: the abuse is
disgusting, abhorrent, reprehensible.
And that's the extent of what I think about the scandal itself.
However, as far as the commentary in the blogosphere and in newspapers
regarding what the military should do now that these photos have been
released, well, that's another matter entirely. I've got plenty to say
about that. I've read accounts that cover the oh-so-colorful spectrum
of political views that we all look forward to reading on a daily
basis. I'm sure you know what I'm talking about. The suggestions range
from drawing and quatering the accused to listing out the reasons for
Rummy to resign to speculating wildly on how this will affect the
campaigns in Fallujah and Najaf. Some are wild in nature, yet others
make some sense. Do I think these bloggers and commentators should shut
the fuck up? No, they're allowed to say whatever the hell they want to
say about it. I would, however, ask them to stop armchair marshalling
this war and declaring in bold print what the military should do about
this scandal. Why do I ask this? Because most people aren't qualified
to comment on what it takes to win a war, how hard it must be, and the
horrible situations soldiers find themselves in on a daily basis to
fulfill the will of a plan they haven't seen, let alone commented on. I
know I don't, which is why I haven't written anything about it other
than to tell you to read what Sgt. Hook had to say. He would know,
after all. I don't. Oh, she's pulling a Micah Wright! The only people qualified to
comment on a war are the ones who've served! Lambast and crucify her!
No, I'm not.
Say whatever the hell you want to say about this scandal. I don't care.
I can choose to disagree with it. It's my position, however, that you
should actually have some level of military experience before you start
pontificating on how these people should be strung up and what sort of
adverse effects this scandal will have on troop and homeland morale,
how this will affect the war overall, and how this has ultimately
wrecked the mission we set out to achieve. I've come by this opinion
honestly, just in case you were wondering. Go here and
look at the list of promotions and know that my cousin is on it. (I'm
not going to email him and ask him if I can publish his name here.
Quite frankly, he's got other, more important, things to deal with.)
He's a talented guy who's made a career out of the Army. He's really
cool guy, too. Yet I'm always and forever terrified to open my mouth in
conversation with him about anything even vaguely related to the war
because he will set me straight if I'm wrong. Yet he only does this
sparingly, which makes it all the more effective. You see, it's pretty
obvious he wants people to have opinions about what is going on
with the military, but he's not afraid to correct them if their
opinions are faulty. I've been wrong in the past and he's corrected me.
Which is why I'm hesitant to shoot my mouth off when chatting with him
because he always adds something new and very impressive to the
conversation about which I had no clue. As terrified as I am of looking
stupid, I still ask questions and he still answers me.
The essence of the difference is this: as a civilian I see things one
way. I can follow a to b to c and make my conclusions based upon my
civilian knowledge. But there is a whole set of knowledge that as a
civilian, I am not able to access to formulate my opinions. My cousin
does have that information, however. He is in the know. Does that mean
his opinions are infalliable? No. But I would take his word over
someone who is in their very comfortable apartment, blogging about what
really should be done about this scandal to make sure we don't lose the
war because of it. I'm asking bloggers and commentators to realize that
they don't know everything and that perhaps, just perhaps, they should
have faith in their Armed Services.
I do. Look hard and look long for evidence that the Army does not know
what the hell it is doing when it comes to dealing with this problem.
The logic follows that you must have lost faith in the army's
operations somewhere along the line to decry now that they're not
competent enough to deal with this crisis and that the entire mission
is in jeopardy as a result. Where was that event on the timeline and
why did it affect you? Did they make an effort to resolve the problem?
But most importantly, do you have all the information about the issue from all sides?
Chances are, you probably don't. Should this stop you from publishing
your assertions? No. Not at all. But it should make you think twice
before you draw your rhetorical sword out of its sheath and declare
that all is lost.

I haven't written anything about

I haven't written anything about the Abu Ghraib scandal because what I
would have written about the scandal itself had been said better
elsewhere. A quick synopsis of my thoughts on the matter: the abuse is
disgusting, abhorrent, reprehensible.
And that's the extent of what I think about the scandal itself.
However, as far as the commentary in the blogosphere and in newspapers
regarding what the military should do now that these photos have been
released, well, that's another matter entirely. I've got plenty to say
about that. I've read accounts that cover the oh-so-colorful spectrum
of political views that we all look forward to reading on a daily
basis. I'm sure you know what I'm talking about. The suggestions range
from drawing and quatering the accused to listing out the reasons for
Rummy to resign to speculating wildly on how this will affect the
campaigns in Fallujah and Najaf. Some are wild in nature, yet others
make some sense. Do I think these bloggers and commentators should shut
the fuck up? No, they're allowed to say whatever the hell they want to
say about it. I would, however, ask them to stop armchair marshalling
this war and declaring in bold print what the military should do about
this scandal. Why do I ask this? Because most people aren't qualified
to comment on what it takes to win a war, how hard it must be, and the
horrible situations soldiers find themselves in on a daily basis to
fulfill the will of a plan they haven't seen, let alone commented on. I
know I don't, which is why I haven't written anything about it other
than to tell you to read what Sgt. Hook had to say. He would know,
after all. I don't. Oh, she's pulling a Micah Wright! The only people qualified to
comment on a war are the ones who've served! Lambast and crucify her!
No, I'm not.
Say whatever the hell you want to say about this scandal. I don't care.
I can choose to disagree with it. It's my position, however, that you
should actually have some level of military experience before you start
pontificating on how these people should be strung up and what sort of
adverse effects this scandal will have on troop and homeland morale,
how this will affect the war overall, and how this has ultimately
wrecked the mission we set out to achieve. I've come by this opinion
honestly, just in case you were wondering. Go here and
look at the list of promotions and know that my cousin is on it. (I'm
not going to email him and ask him if I can publish his name here.
Quite frankly, he's got other, more important, things to deal with.)
He's a talented guy who's made a career out of the Army. He's really
cool guy, too. Yet I'm always and forever terrified to open my mouth in
conversation with him about anything even vaguely related to the war
because he will set me straight if I'm wrong. Yet he only does this
sparingly, which makes it all the more effective. You see, it's pretty
obvious he wants people to have opinions about what is going on
with the military, but he's not afraid to correct them if their
opinions are faulty. I've been wrong in the past and he's corrected me.
Which is why I'm hesitant to shoot my mouth off when chatting with him
because he always adds something new and very impressive to the
conversation about which I had no clue. As terrified as I am of looking
stupid, I still ask questions and he still answers me.
The essence of the difference is this: as a civilian I see things one
way. I can follow a to b to c and make my conclusions based upon my
civilian knowledge. But there is a whole set of knowledge that as a
civilian, I am not able to access to formulate my opinions. My cousin
does have that information, however. He is in the know. Does that mean
his opinions are infalliable? No. But I would take his word over
someone who is in their very comfortable apartment, blogging about what
really should be done about this scandal to make sure we don't lose the
war because of it. I'm asking bloggers and commentators to realize that
they don't know everything and that perhaps, just perhaps, they should
have faith in their Armed Services.
I do. Look hard and look long for evidence that the Army does not know
what the hell it is doing when it comes to dealing with this problem.
The logic follows that you must have lost faith in the army's
operations somewhere along the line to decry now that they're not
competent enough to deal with this crisis and that the entire mission
is in jeopardy as a result. Where was that event on the timeline and
why did it affect you? Did they make an effort to resolve the problem?
But most importantly, do you have all the information about the issue from all sides?
Chances are, you probably don't. Should this stop you from publishing
your assertions? No. Not at all. But it should make you think twice
before you draw your rhetorical sword out of its sheath and declare
that all is lost.

--- The Messenger. Ms. Ebadi

--- The Messenger.

Ms. Ebadi pushed for the need to promote human rights and democracy
alongside economic development. Without singling out any specific
countries for criticism, she made it clear that financial aid to
countries she described as "undemocratic," only helps prop up
repressive regimes. "In countries that are undemocratic, where their
governments are undemocratic, and where all the administrative,
political and economic power of the society lies in the hands of one
person or a special group or elites of a country, the granting of loans
means assisting dictators and opposing people who are already
oppressed," said Ms. Ebadi. "In other words, to say it more clearly, if
undemocratic countries receive loans and credits, they are strengthened
to become more negligent of the rights of their people." She added that
the people living under a bad government will also harbor anger for
nations or international institutions that are seen as having helped
that regime. "The palaces of tyrants will one day fall, and it is then
that the people, the oppressed people, who will, with hatred and
grudge, look at the countries that supported that and the institutions
that provided loans to that former system and consider them as the
reason for this, as an accomplice to the crime that occurred and as a
reason for their misfortune." Ms. Ebadi also said she believes freedom
is the most important human possession. She added, though, that anger
is the enemy of intellect -- and that people who are angry could resort
to means that threaten world security.

Instapundit says
this "sounds good to him." And I suppose it does. After all, you have
the first Islamic Female Nobel Peace Prize winner declaring that
democracy is indeed a good thing and that the IMF should stop rewarding
countries that don't practice it. However, the quickie bio on Ms. Ebadi
seems to neglect a few things. According to a October 16, 2003Economist article (subscription required)...

- {...}she
did not follow colleagues to overseas refuge after the revolution, but
stayed on as an advocate, fighting cases of political murder,
repression and domestic violence. A defender of Islam, she wrote
learnedly about women's and children's rights under Islamic law. She
lost most of her high-profile cases, but survived. Overnight, she has
become a celebrity.
So, while she's "fighting the good fight" she's still basically the
Iranian female equivalent of a losing Alan Dershowitz. Or a Jacques
Verges.
- {...) Rather than the flexible jurisprudence to which Shia
Islam lends itself, and which Ms Ebadi champions, Iran's Islamic
Republic has promoted what Farideh Gheirat, a leading women's lawyer,
calls a “bone-dry version”. Lawmakers and judges reinstated
polygamy, made it virtually impossible for women to divorce without
their husband's consent, and condemned adulteresses to be stoned to
death. The intrusion that offends foreigners the most, the compulsory
head covering, is a minor irritant.
She's apparently for democracy for other countries, but for her own
legal system she still prefers Shia Islam jurisprudence. Which we all
know is just so fair and unbiased toward women---something she works to remedy, yes, yet she still thinks that Islamic jurisprudence can work. How?

- {...}Iranian
women, even many who are indifferent to her causes, are intensely proud
of Ms Ebadi's achievement. But do not expect her to become a role
model. Despite a dash of radicalism—she goes bare-headed outside
Iran—she remains wedded to the cautious reformism that is espoused by
Mr Khatami and his supporters. And that, many believe, has failed. A
small but growing number of women are coming to reject the legal
superstructure to which Ms Ebadi is committed.. Ebadi is not the
best messenger, it seems, to be preaching about rewarding those
countries who have democratic governments, when it doesn't seem as if
she wants it in her homeland. Whether for political expediency or her
religious beliefs, she has thrown her lot in with the noble repressors
in her own country---those who try, but never seem to get any reform
enacted. And the Nobel Committee rewarded her for her half-measures.
So, really, is she the best and most qualified person to be lecturing
anyone about the virutes of democracy?

--- The Messenger. Ms. Ebadi

--- The Messenger.

Ms. Ebadi pushed for the need to promote human rights and democracy
alongside economic development. Without singling out any specific
countries for criticism, she made it clear that financial aid to
countries she described as "undemocratic," only helps prop up
repressive regimes. "In countries that are undemocratic, where their
governments are undemocratic, and where all the administrative,
political and economic power of the society lies in the hands of one
person or a special group or elites of a country, the granting of loans
means assisting dictators and opposing people who are already
oppressed," said Ms. Ebadi. "In other words, to say it more clearly, if
undemocratic countries receive loans and credits, they are strengthened
to become more negligent of the rights of their people." She added that
the people living under a bad government will also harbor anger for
nations or international institutions that are seen as having helped
that regime. "The palaces of tyrants will one day fall, and it is then
that the people, the oppressed people, who will, with hatred and
grudge, look at the countries that supported that and the institutions
that provided loans to that former system and consider them as the
reason for this, as an accomplice to the crime that occurred and as a
reason for their misfortune." Ms. Ebadi also said she believes freedom
is the most important human possession. She added, though, that anger
is the enemy of intellect -- and that people who are angry could resort
to means that threaten world security.

Instapundit says
this "sounds good to him." And I suppose it does. After all, you have
the first Islamic Female Nobel Peace Prize winner declaring that
democracy is indeed a good thing and that the IMF should stop rewarding
countries that don't practice it. However, the quickie bio on Ms. Ebadi
seems to neglect a few things. According to a October 16, 2003Economist article (subscription required)...

- {...}she
did not follow colleagues to overseas refuge after the revolution, but
stayed on as an advocate, fighting cases of political murder,
repression and domestic violence. A defender of Islam, she wrote
learnedly about women's and children's rights under Islamic law. She
lost most of her high-profile cases, but survived. Overnight, she has
become a celebrity.
So, while she's "fighting the good fight" she's still basically the
Iranian female equivalent of a losing Alan Dershowitz. Or a Jacques
Verges.
- {...) Rather than the flexible jurisprudence to which Shia
Islam lends itself, and which Ms Ebadi champions, Iran's Islamic
Republic has promoted what Farideh Gheirat, a leading women's lawyer,
calls a “bone-dry version”. Lawmakers and judges reinstated
polygamy, made it virtually impossible for women to divorce without
their husband's consent, and condemned adulteresses to be stoned to
death. The intrusion that offends foreigners the most, the compulsory
head covering, is a minor irritant.
She's apparently for democracy for other countries, but for her own
legal system she still prefers Shia Islam jurisprudence. Which we all
know is just so fair and unbiased toward women---something she works to remedy, yes, yet she still thinks that Islamic jurisprudence can work. How?

- {...}Iranian
women, even many who are indifferent to her causes, are intensely proud
of Ms Ebadi's achievement. But do not expect her to become a role
model. Despite a dash of radicalism—she goes bare-headed outside
Iran—she remains wedded to the cautious reformism that is espoused by
Mr Khatami and his supporters. And that, many believe, has failed. A
small but growing number of women are coming to reject the legal
superstructure to which Ms Ebadi is committed.. Ebadi is not the
best messenger, it seems, to be preaching about rewarding those
countries who have democratic governments, when it doesn't seem as if
she wants it in her homeland. Whether for political expediency or her
religious beliefs, she has thrown her lot in with the noble repressors
in her own country---those who try, but never seem to get any reform
enacted. And the Nobel Committee rewarded her for her half-measures.
So, really, is she the best and most qualified person to be lecturing
anyone about the virutes of democracy?

--- The Cake Eater Chronicles:

--- The Cake Eater Chronicles: Now with 30% more Estradiol!
Heh.
You could knock me up just by looking at me the wrong way.

--- The Cake Eater Chronicles:

--- The Cake Eater Chronicles: Now with 30% more Estradiol!
Heh.
You could knock me up just by looking at me the wrong way.

--- Proof that no one

--- Proof that no one is safe from PETA.

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals has selected the gadfly
filmmaker as one of its “Flab Five” and is treating him to a Veg
Eye for the Fat Guy makeover. “Looks like the ‘Downsize This’
author has been doing too much supersizing,” notes PETA. “We’ll
be sending him a nice little care package, a makeover kit filled with
health and diet tips, PETA’s vegetarian starter kit, and suggestions
on how he might change his lifestyle,” PETA’s Michael McGraw tells
The Scoop.
I'm tempted to buy a book of McDonald's gift certificates and send them
to Moore with my compliments if it'll get me more stories like this.
{snort}
(Hat tip to Michele)

--- Proof that no one

--- Proof that no one is safe from PETA.

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals has selected the gadfly
filmmaker as one of its “Flab Five” and is treating him to a Veg
Eye for the Fat Guy makeover. “Looks like the ‘Downsize This’
author has been doing too much supersizing,” notes PETA. “We’ll
be sending him a nice little care package, a makeover kit filled with
health and diet tips, PETA’s vegetarian starter kit, and suggestions
on how he might change his lifestyle,” PETA’s Michael McGraw tells
The Scoop.
I'm tempted to buy a book of McDonald's gift certificates and send them
to Moore with my compliments if it'll get me more stories like this.
{snort}
(Hat tip to Michele)

--- You might have noticed

--- You might have noticed that the server is down. I don't know what
the problem is but hopefully it will be back up and running soon. If
you're really curious about any of the graphics---which I know you
won't be---hit the email link over to the right and I'll email you a
copy. I'm sick of of the hosting company and their servers. The husband
keeps saying we will switch sometime in the near future, but when?
That's up in the air. At times, it kinda sucks having a husband in IT.
I don't mind the free laptops (I do mind it, however, when the laptop
comes in lieu of a payment that was OVERDUE) or the free software or
having someone handy who knows how all this stuff goes together. But
IT is an industry in flux. Always and forever in flux. What's great
month is not so hot the next. I'm not going to go into details about
his future plans, suffice it to say though, that because of said plans
he can't make up his mind about whether or not he'll actually purchase
a server, or find better hosting options. He doesn't know. Last I heard
he was moving away from the idea of purchasing a server, but that might
have changed. I have no clue. But, if there's even a remote possibility
he might purchase a server, it makes no sense for me to sign up for
independent hosting and to switch over to Moveable Type. Why pay extra
money for hosting when I could have all the hosting I want for free? I
dunno.
Never mind the fact that the idea of moving over Moveable Type makes me
break out in hives. It's all about hosting. Shudder. What's really odd
is that a year ago I had no idea how all of this stuff worked.

--- You might have noticed

--- You might have noticed that the server is down. I don't know what
the problem is but hopefully it will be back up and running soon. If
you're really curious about any of the graphics---which I know you
won't be---hit the email link over to the right and I'll email you a
copy. I'm sick of of the hosting company and their servers. The husband
keeps saying we will switch sometime in the near future, but when?
That's up in the air. At times, it kinda sucks having a husband in IT.
I don't mind the free laptops (I do mind it, however, when the laptop
comes in lieu of a payment that was OVERDUE) or the free software or
having someone handy who knows how all this stuff goes together. But
IT is an industry in flux. Always and forever in flux. What's great
month is not so hot the next. I'm not going to go into details about
his future plans, suffice it to say though, that because of said plans
he can't make up his mind about whether or not he'll actually purchase
a server, or find better hosting options. He doesn't know. Last I heard
he was moving away from the idea of purchasing a server, but that might
have changed. I have no clue. But, if there's even a remote possibility
he might purchase a server, it makes no sense for me to sign up for
independent hosting and to switch over to Moveable Type. Why pay extra
money for hosting when I could have all the hosting I want for free? I
dunno.
Never mind the fact that the idea of moving over Moveable Type makes me
break out in hives. It's all about hosting. Shudder. What's really odd
is that a year ago I had no idea how all of this stuff worked.

You have something in common,

You have something in common, too. You're both black.

BEIRUT (Reuters) - Lebanon's Hizbollah guerrilla group condemned Wednesday the beheading of an American hostage by Iraqi militants as an ugly crime that flouted the tenets of Islam. "Hizbollah condemns this horrible act that has done very great harm to Islam and Muslims by this group that claims affiliation to the religion of mercy, compassion and humane principles," the Shi'ite Muslim group said in a statement.

But wait, there's more...

Hizbollah said Berg's killing had diverted the world's gaze from an escalating furor over the abuse of Iraqi prisoners by occupation soldiers. "The timing of this act that overshadowed the scandal over the abuse of Iraqi prisoners in occupation forces prisons is suspect timing that aims to serve the American administration and occupation forces in Iraq and present excuses and pretexts for their inhumane practices against Iraqi detainees."

You have something in common,

You have something in common, too. You're both black.

BEIRUT (Reuters) - Lebanon's Hizbollah guerrilla group condemned Wednesday the beheading of an American hostage by Iraqi militants as an ugly crime that flouted the tenets of Islam. "Hizbollah condemns this horrible act that has done very great harm to Islam and Muslims by this group that claims affiliation to the religion of mercy, compassion and humane principles," the Shi'ite Muslim group said in a statement.

But wait, there's more...

Hizbollah said Berg's killing had diverted the world's gaze from an escalating furor over the abuse of Iraqi prisoners by occupation soldiers. "The timing of this act that overshadowed the scandal over the abuse of Iraqi prisoners in occupation forces prisons is suspect timing that aims to serve the American administration and occupation forces in Iraq and present excuses and pretexts for their inhumane practices against Iraqi detainees."

The Cake Eater Chronicles is

The Cake Eater Chronicles is also declaring itself to be a No Communist Zone.

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - A Southern California city known as "Little Saigon" because of its large Vietnamese population hasbecome the first U.S. city to declare itself a "no Communist" zone. The city council in Garden Grove, about 30 miles south of Los Angeles, passed a resolution on Tuesday saying it "does not welcome, or sanction high-profile visits, drive-bys or stopovers by members or officials of the Vietnamese Communist government." The resolution, passed to cheers from a crowd of about 200 Vietnamese residents, also urged city officials to refrain from "initiating engagements with or facilitating" visits by Vietnamese Communists. Garden Grove and the neighboring city of Westminster are home to some 90,000 residents of Vietnamese descent -- the largest Vietnamese population outside Vietnam. Many are political refugees and visits by visiting Vietnamese government delegations are frequently met with large protests and demonstrations.

Understandably, the Vietnamese government is a wee bit hurt by this decision.

Ha Noi, May 13 (VNA) - Viet Nam has protested against a recent resolution by the Garden Grove City Council in the State of California, which outlaws visits by delegations representing the Vietnamese Government to the city. "We protested against the Garden Grove City Council's approval of such an irrational resolution which runs counter to the growing relationship between the two countries and to the US federal constitution as well," Vietnamese Foreign Ministry spokesman Le Dung said on Thursday.

Bitch and moan. Bitch and moan. That's all communists ever do. Maybe you can call on the ghost of Ho Chi Minh to help you wheedle your way out of this one, eh, boys?

The Cake Eater Chronicles is

The Cake Eater Chronicles is also declaring itself to be a No Communist Zone.

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - A Southern California city known as "Little Saigon" because of its large Vietnamese population hasbecome the first U.S. city to declare itself a "no Communist" zone. The city council in Garden Grove, about 30 miles south of Los Angeles, passed a resolution on Tuesday saying it "does not welcome, or sanction high-profile visits, drive-bys or stopovers by members or officials of the Vietnamese Communist government." The resolution, passed to cheers from a crowd of about 200 Vietnamese residents, also urged city officials to refrain from "initiating engagements with or facilitating" visits by Vietnamese Communists. Garden Grove and the neighboring city of Westminster are home to some 90,000 residents of Vietnamese descent -- the largest Vietnamese population outside Vietnam. Many are political refugees and visits by visiting Vietnamese government delegations are frequently met with large protests and demonstrations.

Understandably, the Vietnamese government is a wee bit hurt by this decision.

Ha Noi, May 13 (VNA) - Viet Nam has protested against a recent resolution by the Garden Grove City Council in the State of California, which outlaws visits by delegations representing the Vietnamese Government to the city. "We protested against the Garden Grove City Council's approval of such an irrational resolution which runs counter to the growing relationship between the two countries and to the US federal constitution as well," Vietnamese Foreign Ministry spokesman Le Dung said on Thursday.

Bitch and moan. Bitch and moan. That's all communists ever do. Maybe you can call on the ghost of Ho Chi Minh to help you wheedle your way out of this one, eh, boys?

Monster Hosta II---Same one from

Monster Hosta II---Same one from the other day. Just bigger.

Monster Hosta II---Same one from

Monster Hosta II---Same one from the other day. Just bigger.

--- I'm baaaaaack. I took

--- I'm baaaaaack. I took a much needed mental health day. Mental health day? What
the fuck's a mental health day? I've got a job, you dumb woman. What
the hell do you need to take a mental health day for? You do laundry.
You clean. You pose as a novelist to give yourself blog props. Get over
yourself. is invariably the reply to my need for a little time
away from el Internetola. Which, of course, leads to the question: how
does one know when one needs a mental health day? It's a subjective
concept, after all. Your qualifications for a mental health day might
differ from mine, but does that mean I have the right to tell you that
you can't take a mental health day? Hmmmm? Well, for me, it's when I
start rambling on about a miniscule, yet overlooked, detail that
ultimately makes no sense whatsoever. i.e. It really does matter if you use vegetable oil when you fry potatoes and let me tell you why...
This strange careering into wierd subject matter generally causes my
audience to wonder what the hell I'm smoking other than Marlboro Ultra
Light 100's. Long story short: I took one for the team.

--- I'm baaaaaack. I took

--- I'm baaaaaack. I took a much needed mental health day. Mental health day? What
the fuck's a mental health day? I've got a job, you dumb woman. What
the hell do you need to take a mental health day for? You do laundry.
You clean. You pose as a novelist to give yourself blog props. Get over
yourself. is invariably the reply to my need for a little time
away from el Internetola. Which, of course, leads to the question: how
does one know when one needs a mental health day? It's a subjective
concept, after all. Your qualifications for a mental health day might
differ from mine, but does that mean I have the right to tell you that
you can't take a mental health day? Hmmmm? Well, for me, it's when I
start rambling on about a miniscule, yet overlooked, detail that
ultimately makes no sense whatsoever. i.e. It really does matter if you use vegetable oil when you fry potatoes and let me tell you why...
This strange careering into wierd subject matter generally causes my
audience to wonder what the hell I'm smoking other than Marlboro Ultra
Light 100's. Long story short: I took one for the team.

Yes, I know I'm not

Yes, I know I'm not all that good with the scissors.

And there's my Self-Degrading Public Service Announcement For the Day.

Enjoy.

Yes, I know I'm not

Yes, I know I'm not all that good with the scissors.

And there's my Self-Degrading Public Service Announcement For the Day.

Enjoy.

My Neighborhood. Only You Can't

My Neighborhood. Only You Can't See My House.

My Neighborhood. Only You Can't

My Neighborhood. Only You Can't See My House.

--- Way. Over. The. Line.

--- Way. Over. The. Line.
Got this in the Cake Eater Mail Box today.

My name is John paul, a member of Independent Committee of
Eminent Persons (ICEP), Switzerland. ICEP is charged with the
responsibility
of finding bank accounts in Switzerland belonging to non-Swiss
indigenes, which have remained dormant since World War II.

It may interest you to know that in July of 1997, the Swiss Banker's
Association published a list of dormant accounts originally opened by
non-Swiss citizens. These accounts had been dormant since the end of
World War II (May 9, 1945). Most belonged to Holocaust victims.

The continuing efforts of the Independent Committee of Eminent Persons
(ICEP) have since resulted in the discovery of additional dormant
accounts - 54,000 in December, 1999.

The published lists contain all types of dormant accounts, including
interest-bearing savings accounts, securities accounts, safe deposit
boxes, custody accounts, and non-interest-bearing transaction accounts.
Numbered accounts are also included. Interest is paid on accounts that
were interest bearing when established.

The Claims Resolution Tribunal (CRT) handles processing of all claims
on accounts due non-Swiss citizens. A dormant account of ORDNER ADELE
with a credit balance of 35,000,000 US dollar plus accumulated
interest was discovered by me. The beneficiary was murdered during the holocaust
era, leaving no WILL and no possible records for trace of heirs.

The Claims Resolution Tribunal has been mandated to report all
unclaimed funds for permanent closure of accounts and transfer of
existing credit balance into the treasury of Switzerland government as provided
by the law for management of assets of deceased beneficiaries who died
interstate (living no wills).

Being a top executive at ICEP, I have all secret details and necessary
contacts for claim of the funds without any hitch. The funds will be
banked in the Cayman Island, being a tax free, safe haven for funds and
we can share the funds and use in investment of our choice.

Due to the sensitive nature of my job, I need a foreigner to HELP claim
the funds. All that is required is for you to provide me with your
details for processing of the necessary legal and administrative claim
documents for transfer of the funds to you.

Kindly provide me with your full name, address, and telephone/fax. I
will pay all required fees to ensure that the fund is transferred to a
secure, numbered account in your name in the Cayman Island, of which
you will be capable of accessing the funds gradually and transferring to
your country and other banks of choice in the world. My share will be
60 percent and your share is 40 per cent of the total amount. THERE IS NO
RISK INVOLVED.

You can find additional information about unclaimed funds through the
internet at the following websites:

www.swissbankclaims.com

http://www.cnn.com/WORLD/europe/9902/09/germany.holocaust/

www.avotaynu.com

www.icheic.org

www.livingheirs.com

www.wiesenthal.com

The Holocaust Claims Processing Office has put funds in Escrow awaiting
submission of valid claims for necessary disbursement.

I find myself priviledged to have this information and this may be a
great opportunity for a life time of success without risks.

Due to security reasons, reply to my via email only. You may reply to
me securely on the following email,
johnson1313@sify.com
Thank you for your prompt response.

John

I haven't seen this one before. I've seen all the Nigerian Oil/Banking
scams. I've seen all sorts of interesting scams who try to get people
to give their information over to dubious persons, and while disgusted,
I'm generally of the opinion that if you're silly enough to believe a
randomly generated email from someone you don't know is meant for you
and will solve your problems, well, you deserve what you get. It's sad,
but that's life. You are the person who is responsible for your best
interests, and if you fall for this sort of thing, well... This spam,
however, is beyond the pale. This isn't a Nigerian Oil scam. This spam
seeks to take advantage of personal desperation. This is a very
personal issue for people who have survived the worst genocide on the
books. I worry that a survivor could be taken in by this. A quick
Google check reveals that all of the organizations listed above---the
Independent Committee of Eminent Persons, the Swiss Bankers
Association---are legit. Dear God.
How many Holocaust survivors and their heirs have spent years trying to
get back what was legally theirs, but came up against the brick wall
that is Swiss banking and failed? How many survivors died before they
could get back what was theirs? I cannot even begin to imagine how
frustrating that would have been. Produce
a death certificate and you can have your father's money. My father
died at Auschwitz. Oh, well, I'm sorry for your loss but without proper
documentation there's nothing we can do... Honestly, I find it
amazing there wasn't a rash of personal attacks in the Zurich and
Geneva banking communities. But the survivors didn't resort to
violence. They waited and worked behind the scenes to make things
happen. And they finally did---to a certain extent. But here you have a
spammer who is relatively well educated, knows that there are myriad
organizations out there taking care of this issue and takes advantage
of the desperation of people who have suffered way entirely too much in
this lifetime. People, who because of their age---despite what they
suffered through---might be a bit on the naive side when it comes to
spamming techniques. Fucker.

--- Way. Over. The. Line.

--- Way. Over. The. Line.
Got this in the Cake Eater Mail Box today.

My name is John paul, a member of Independent Committee of
Eminent Persons (ICEP), Switzerland. ICEP is charged with the
responsibility
of finding bank accounts in Switzerland belonging to non-Swiss
indigenes, which have remained dormant since World War II.

It may interest you to know that in July of 1997, the Swiss Banker's
Association published a list of dormant accounts originally opened by
non-Swiss citizens. These accounts had been dormant since the end of
World War II (May 9, 1945). Most belonged to Holocaust victims.

The continuing efforts of the Independent Committee of Eminent Persons
(ICEP) have since resulted in the discovery of additional dormant
accounts - 54,000 in December, 1999.

The published lists contain all types of dormant accounts, including
interest-bearing savings accounts, securities accounts, safe deposit
boxes, custody accounts, and non-interest-bearing transaction accounts.
Numbered accounts are also included. Interest is paid on accounts that
were interest bearing when established.

The Claims Resolution Tribunal (CRT) handles processing of all claims
on accounts due non-Swiss citizens. A dormant account of ORDNER ADELE
with a credit balance of 35,000,000 US dollar plus accumulated
interest was discovered by me. The beneficiary was murdered during the holocaust
era, leaving no WILL and no possible records for trace of heirs.

The Claims Resolution Tribunal has been mandated to report all
unclaimed funds for permanent closure of accounts and transfer of
existing credit balance into the treasury of Switzerland government as provided
by the law for management of assets of deceased beneficiaries who died
interstate (living no wills).

Being a top executive at ICEP, I have all secret details and necessary
contacts for claim of the funds without any hitch. The funds will be
banked in the Cayman Island, being a tax free, safe haven for funds and
we can share the funds and use in investment of our choice.

Due to the sensitive nature of my job, I need a foreigner to HELP claim
the funds. All that is required is for you to provide me with your
details for processing of the necessary legal and administrative claim
documents for transfer of the funds to you.

Kindly provide me with your full name, address, and telephone/fax. I
will pay all required fees to ensure that the fund is transferred to a
secure, numbered account in your name in the Cayman Island, of which
you will be capable of accessing the funds gradually and transferring to
your country and other banks of choice in the world. My share will be
60 percent and your share is 40 per cent of the total amount. THERE IS NO
RISK INVOLVED.

You can find additional information about unclaimed funds through the
internet at the following websites:

www.swissbankclaims.com

http://www.cnn.com/WORLD/europe/9902/09/germany.holocaust/

www.avotaynu.com

www.icheic.org

www.livingheirs.com

www.wiesenthal.com

The Holocaust Claims Processing Office has put funds in Escrow awaiting
submission of valid claims for necessary disbursement.

I find myself priviledged to have this information and this may be a
great opportunity for a life time of success without risks.

Due to security reasons, reply to my via email only. You may reply to
me securely on the following email,
johnson1313@sify.com
Thank you for your prompt response.

John

I haven't seen this one before. I've seen all the Nigerian Oil/Banking
scams. I've seen all sorts of interesting scams who try to get people
to give their information over to dubious persons, and while disgusted,
I'm generally of the opinion that if you're silly enough to believe a
randomly generated email from someone you don't know is meant for you
and will solve your problems, well, you deserve what you get. It's sad,
but that's life. You are the person who is responsible for your best
interests, and if you fall for this sort of thing, well... This spam,
however, is beyond the pale. This isn't a Nigerian Oil scam. This spam
seeks to take advantage of personal desperation. This is a very
personal issue for people who have survived the worst genocide on the
books. I worry that a survivor could be taken in by this. A quick
Google check reveals that all of the organizations listed above---the
Independent Committee of Eminent Persons, the Swiss Bankers
Association---are legit. Dear God.
How many Holocaust survivors and their heirs have spent years trying to
get back what was legally theirs, but came up against the brick wall
that is Swiss banking and failed? How many survivors died before they
could get back what was theirs? I cannot even begin to imagine how
frustrating that would have been. Produce
a death certificate and you can have your father's money. My father
died at Auschwitz. Oh, well, I'm sorry for your loss but without proper
documentation there's nothing we can do... Honestly, I find it
amazing there wasn't a rash of personal attacks in the Zurich and
Geneva banking communities. But the survivors didn't resort to
violence. They waited and worked behind the scenes to make things
happen. And they finally did---to a certain extent. But here you have a
spammer who is relatively well educated, knows that there are myriad
organizations out there taking care of this issue and takes advantage
of the desperation of people who have suffered way entirely too much in
this lifetime. People, who because of their age---despite what they
suffered through---might be a bit on the naive side when it comes to
spamming techniques. Fucker.

--- I have no desire

--- I have no desire to blog today, so, guess what? I'm not going to!
It's good to be Queen.
Have a lovely day and stop back tomorrow when I will probably have
something for you.

--- I have no desire

--- I have no desire to blog today, so, guess what? I'm not going to!
It's good to be Queen.
Have a lovely day and stop back tomorrow when I will probably have
something for you.

...to boycott Estee Lauder. This

...to boycott Estee Lauder. This would be it.

NEW YORK - Sean Combs seems to have teamed up musically with everyone, from Notorious B.I.G. and Usher to Sting and Dave Navarro. But his next collaboration, through his fashion designer persona, is with Estee Lauder: The cosmetics company is planning to create and market a new line of fragrances under the rapper’s Sean John name.

Mrs. Lauder must be spinning in her grave. Too bad I can't boycott them. I would except for the fact it's the only brand of makeup that doesn't make me instantly break out. Yep. That's right. The Cake Eater Chronicles: we have principles that will be easily thrown to the wayside if it compromises the clarity and texture of our skin.

...to boycott Estee Lauder. This

...to boycott Estee Lauder. This would be it.

NEW YORK - Sean Combs seems to have teamed up musically with everyone, from Notorious B.I.G. and Usher to Sting and Dave Navarro. But his next collaboration, through his fashion designer persona, is with Estee Lauder: The cosmetics company is planning to create and market a new line of fragrances under the rapper’s Sean John name.

Mrs. Lauder must be spinning in her grave. Too bad I can't boycott them. I would except for the fact it's the only brand of makeup that doesn't make me instantly break out. Yep. That's right. The Cake Eater Chronicles: we have principles that will be easily thrown to the wayside if it compromises the clarity and texture of our skin.

It's not everyday that the

It's not everyday that the Metro Section of the Strib has an aerial photo of your neighborhood on its front page.

Amazingly enough, though, the Strib only has the article up online, and not the photo.

Will scan and post.

And just in case you were wondering, my neighborhood is listed as "good" for walking.

It's not everyday that the

It's not everyday that the Metro Section of the Strib has an aerial photo of your neighborhood on its front page.

Amazingly enough, though, the Strib only has the article up online, and not the photo.

Will scan and post.

And just in case you were wondering, my neighborhood is listed as "good" for walking.

--- Silly Germans Don't they

--- Silly Germans

Don't they have CSI in Germany?

--- Silly Germans Don't they

--- Silly Germans

Don't they have CSI in Germany?

WASHINGTON – As California gas

WASHINGTON – As California gas prices reach new highs, the state's two senators are joining other Democrats in calling on the Bush administration to tap the country's oil reserves to lower prices. ... At a Capitol Hill news conference Tuesday, Sens. Dianne Feinstein and Barbara Boxer expressed support for a resolution calling on the administration to stop sending oil into the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. Instead, the administration should siphon out 1 million barrels a day for at least 30 days, says the resolution by Sen. Charles Schumer, D-N.Y. "It in itself would send a strong message that we've got to stabilize and begin to reduce gas prices," Feinstein said. "I think this spike is with us for a considerable period of time." The reserve, a cache of 660 million barrels – or more than two months of imports – is in salt domes on the Gulf Coast. Some 170,000 barrels per day are now being shipped to the reserve, which was created after the 1973 oil embargo to counter supply disruptions.

{emphasis added by moi} Memo to Chuck Shumer, Dianne Fienstein and Babs Boxer From: Me Re: YOU ARE A PACK OF FLAMING IDIOTS, or GROW SOME GODDAMN BRAINS, WOULD YOU? There is a reason the word "strategic" is in the official title of the place we store all the oil. This would mean, nimrods, that there is a reason we are pumping billons of barrels into the reserve. This means OPEC cannot hold us hostage over political moves an administration might make that they disagree with. Are you getting it now? If we started emptying the reserves in a misguided effort to glut the market so gas prices would go down, that means we'd have to buy more at $41 a barrel. You would, essentially, be dooming us to more gas price increases because, of course, OPEC would take advantage of the situation. This also means you're giving OPEC leverage and honestly, do we need more of that? Learn what supply and demand means before you claim there's a problem with supply. There isn't a problem with supply. Neither has demand gone up. There's plenty o' oil. and the number of customers hasn't gone up. The problem here is terrorists. Yep those people you would like to think aren't out there, and if they are, well, they're wearing a Che T-shirt and what's not to like about that? They, and their state sponsors (who, just in case you hadn't noticed, control most of the world's supply of oil) would love nothing more than to hold us hostage by threatening to cut off the supply of the black goop. Why do you think Saudi Arabia suddenly started getting with the program in their limited way? Because they were attacked? Yeah, that had something to do with it, but it was also partially because Dubya said he was going to fill up the reserves to the brim after 9/11. The logic goes something like this: they can't blackmail us into going along with their whims if we take their means of blackmail away. It's all about "hand." You all watched Seinfeld didn't you? If you're unfamiliar with the concept, perhaps you can have one of your vast number of researchers dig up a copy for you so, like George Costanza, you can figure this one out. It's not like it's going to have a permanent effect, either. You are there to help us guide our country into the future, aren't you? Or are you only in Washington to make sure things go well in the meanwhile and the future can go hang? Just ask your beloved Bubba how well it went when he opened up the reserves. Sure there was temporary relief, but it didn't last long. His effort to allieviate our pain also put us at a disadvantage because we eventually had to fill the reserves back up. So, there's not a supply problem. There's not a demand problem. Where is the hold-up? Oil refineries. The baseline problem here is that nitwit Democrats like you scream bloody murder about oil refineries. You pay attention to all those nitwit environmentalists with their fringe "we should all be vegetarians living off the fruit of ferns" agenda, and you get all upset about oil refineries and their pollution output. This has led to fewer refineries, because the way it stands now, who in their right mind would want to own one of these things, let alone build more? They're anathema. Add in the draconian regulations you people have forced them to adhere to and you've got no incentive for anyone to the solve the problem. No one wants a refinery in their backyard and business owners know this. They stink. They're huge. They pollute. But because we don't have more refineries and because you refuse to help the ones that are operating to increase production, a bottleneck ensues. You all drive on Washington's freeways, don't you? You know what a bottleneck is, right? In the unlikely event that you all walk to work, let me explain: it's when a five lane freeway suddenly goes down to two lanes and all of that traffic that was flowing along quite nicely within five lanes, grinds to a standstill when there are only two lanes to handle it. We have plenty of oil; it should flow freely from the ground to the refineries to the pump. However, it doesn't. There is a bottleneck in the process and it occurs at the refineries. Particularly during the summertime, when stupid legislators like you have demanded that there be special, emission reducing gas sold at the pumps. The refineries can't keep up with the demand for specialized gas, hence the price of gas GOES UP. This of course doesn't mention all the friggin' gouging the oil companies are partaking in right now, but you wouldn't want to do anything about that, would you Senators Shumer, Feinstein and Boxer, because you get campaign contributions from the oil companies, too. Dubya's pockets aren't the only ones lined with petrodollars. At least he's honest about who he gets his money from---you, well, you three are a pack of hypocritical bastards, taking money with one hand while the other wags in disapproval. So, to sum up. 1. Opening the Strategic Petroleum Reserves is a bad idea because it will give OPEC more leverage that they shouldn't have and it puts us at risk. Neither will it help gas prices to go down and stay down. Temporary relief is not worth the price we would pay in the long run. 2. Fix the laws to encourage the building of more refineries, or at least make it easier for them to operate in the meantime. You're the ones who put the regulations in place, you can take them out again. 3. Realize the reason we're paying over two bucks a gallon is because of your actions. Take one for the team and shut the hell up already. You haven't a clue as to what you're talking about.

WASHINGTON – As California gas

WASHINGTON – As California gas prices reach new highs, the state's two senators are joining other Democrats in calling on the Bush administration to tap the country's oil reserves to lower prices. ... At a Capitol Hill news conference Tuesday, Sens. Dianne Feinstein and Barbara Boxer expressed support for a resolution calling on the administration to stop sending oil into the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. Instead, the administration should siphon out 1 million barrels a day for at least 30 days, says the resolution by Sen. Charles Schumer, D-N.Y. "It in itself would send a strong message that we've got to stabilize and begin to reduce gas prices," Feinstein said. "I think this spike is with us for a considerable period of time." The reserve, a cache of 660 million barrels – or more than two months of imports – is in salt domes on the Gulf Coast. Some 170,000 barrels per day are now being shipped to the reserve, which was created after the 1973 oil embargo to counter supply disruptions.

{emphasis added by moi} Memo to Chuck Shumer, Dianne Fienstein and Babs Boxer From: Me Re: YOU ARE A PACK OF FLAMING IDIOTS, or GROW SOME GODDAMN BRAINS, WOULD YOU? There is a reason the word "strategic" is in the official title of the place we store all the oil. This would mean, nimrods, that there is a reason we are pumping billons of barrels into the reserve. This means OPEC cannot hold us hostage over political moves an administration might make that they disagree with. Are you getting it now? If we started emptying the reserves in a misguided effort to glut the market so gas prices would go down, that means we'd have to buy more at $41 a barrel. You would, essentially, be dooming us to more gas price increases because, of course, OPEC would take advantage of the situation. This also means you're giving OPEC leverage and honestly, do we need more of that? Learn what supply and demand means before you claim there's a problem with supply. There isn't a problem with supply. Neither has demand gone up. There's plenty o' oil. and the number of customers hasn't gone up. The problem here is terrorists. Yep those people you would like to think aren't out there, and if they are, well, they're wearing a Che T-shirt and what's not to like about that? They, and their state sponsors (who, just in case you hadn't noticed, control most of the world's supply of oil) would love nothing more than to hold us hostage by threatening to cut off the supply of the black goop. Why do you think Saudi Arabia suddenly started getting with the program in their limited way? Because they were attacked? Yeah, that had something to do with it, but it was also partially because Dubya said he was going to fill up the reserves to the brim after 9/11. The logic goes something like this: they can't blackmail us into going along with their whims if we take their means of blackmail away. It's all about "hand." You all watched Seinfeld didn't you? If you're unfamiliar with the concept, perhaps you can have one of your vast number of researchers dig up a copy for you so, like George Costanza, you can figure this one out. It's not like it's going to have a permanent effect, either. You are there to help us guide our country into the future, aren't you? Or are you only in Washington to make sure things go well in the meanwhile and the future can go hang? Just ask your beloved Bubba how well it went when he opened up the reserves. Sure there was temporary relief, but it didn't last long. His effort to allieviate our pain also put us at a disadvantage because we eventually had to fill the reserves back up. So, there's not a supply problem. There's not a demand problem. Where is the hold-up? Oil refineries. The baseline problem here is that nitwit Democrats like you scream bloody murder about oil refineries. You pay attention to all those nitwit environmentalists with their fringe "we should all be vegetarians living off the fruit of ferns" agenda, and you get all upset about oil refineries and their pollution output. This has led to fewer refineries, because the way it stands now, who in their right mind would want to own one of these things, let alone build more? They're anathema. Add in the draconian regulations you people have forced them to adhere to and you've got no incentive for anyone to the solve the problem. No one wants a refinery in their backyard and business owners know this. They stink. They're huge. They pollute. But because we don't have more refineries and because you refuse to help the ones that are operating to increase production, a bottleneck ensues. You all drive on Washington's freeways, don't you? You know what a bottleneck is, right? In the unlikely event that you all walk to work, let me explain: it's when a five lane freeway suddenly goes down to two lanes and all of that traffic that was flowing along quite nicely within five lanes, grinds to a standstill when there are only two lanes to handle it. We have plenty of oil; it should flow freely from the ground to the refineries to the pump. However, it doesn't. There is a bottleneck in the process and it occurs at the refineries. Particularly during the summertime, when stupid legislators like you have demanded that there be special, emission reducing gas sold at the pumps. The refineries can't keep up with the demand for specialized gas, hence the price of gas GOES UP. This of course doesn't mention all the friggin' gouging the oil companies are partaking in right now, but you wouldn't want to do anything about that, would you Senators Shumer, Feinstein and Boxer, because you get campaign contributions from the oil companies, too. Dubya's pockets aren't the only ones lined with petrodollars. At least he's honest about who he gets his money from---you, well, you three are a pack of hypocritical bastards, taking money with one hand while the other wags in disapproval. So, to sum up. 1. Opening the Strategic Petroleum Reserves is a bad idea because it will give OPEC more leverage that they shouldn't have and it puts us at risk. Neither will it help gas prices to go down and stay down. Temporary relief is not worth the price we would pay in the long run. 2. Fix the laws to encourage the building of more refineries, or at least make it easier for them to operate in the meantime. You're the ones who put the regulations in place, you can take them out again. 3. Realize the reason we're paying over two bucks a gallon is because of your actions. Take one for the team and shut the hell up already. You haven't a clue as to what you're talking about.

...Why don't you just get

...Why don't you just get down on your knees and take care of business, already?

...Why don't you just get

...Why don't you just get down on your knees and take care of business, already?

According to Reuters, the Abu

According to Reuters, the Abu Ghraib backlash has begun.

DUBAI (Reuters) - An Islamist web site showed a videotape Tuesday of an al Qaeda-linked group beheading an American and vowing more executions as revenge for the abuse of Iraqi prisoners. The poor quality tape showed a man sitting on the floor with five masked men behind him. After one of the masked men read out a statement, they pushed the bound man to the floor, cutting off his head and holding it aloft. It was not immediately possible to verify the authenticity of the tape carried on Muntada al-Ansar Islamist Web site. On the tape, the man identified himself as Nick Berg before the execution. "My name is Nick Berg, my father's name is Michael...I have a brother and sister, David and Sarah," said the man, who was shown bound and seated in a chair in the poor quality tape carried on Muntada al-Ansar Islamist Web site.

My gut says this is legit.

UPDATE: 05/01/2004 It is.

The 26-year-old Berg was a self-employed civilian contractor from suburban Philadelphia. He was found dead near a highway overpass in Baghdad. Berg's mother says he'd been in Iraq doing contract work to repair the country's infrastructure. She says he'd been missing since April 9th. The military says there were signs of trauma to the body.

The media had better start decrying this one right fucking now. They've been focusing solely on relatively benign prisoner abuse for hours on end for over a week now. They have made this into the firestorm that it has become. They had better spend some time putting it out. I know. I won't be holding my breath, either. UPDATE II:

"For the mothers and wives of American soldiers, we tell you that we offered the U.S. administration to exchange this hostage for some of the detainees in Abu Ghraib and they refused," says a hooded man standing behind the American. "So we tell you that the dignity of the Muslim men and women in Abu Ghraib and others is not redeemed except by blood and souls. You will not receive anything from us but coffins after coffins, slaughtered in this way."

Let me repeat that just in case you skimmed over the details: "...the dignity of the Muslim men and women in Abu Ghraib and others is not redeemed except by blood and souls."

According to Reuters, the Abu

According to Reuters, the Abu Ghraib backlash has begun.

DUBAI (Reuters) - An Islamist web site showed a videotape Tuesday of an al Qaeda-linked group beheading an American and vowing more executions as revenge for the abuse of Iraqi prisoners. The poor quality tape showed a man sitting on the floor with five masked men behind him. After one of the masked men read out a statement, they pushed the bound man to the floor, cutting off his head and holding it aloft. It was not immediately possible to verify the authenticity of the tape carried on Muntada al-Ansar Islamist Web site. On the tape, the man identified himself as Nick Berg before the execution. "My name is Nick Berg, my father's name is Michael...I have a brother and sister, David and Sarah," said the man, who was shown bound and seated in a chair in the poor quality tape carried on Muntada al-Ansar Islamist Web site.

My gut says this is legit.

UPDATE: 05/01/2004 It is.

The 26-year-old Berg was a self-employed civilian contractor from suburban Philadelphia. He was found dead near a highway overpass in Baghdad. Berg's mother says he'd been in Iraq doing contract work to repair the country's infrastructure. She says he'd been missing since April 9th. The military says there were signs of trauma to the body.

The media had better start decrying this one right fucking now. They've been focusing solely on relatively benign prisoner abuse for hours on end for over a week now. They have made this into the firestorm that it has become. They had better spend some time putting it out. I know. I won't be holding my breath, either. UPDATE II:

"For the mothers and wives of American soldiers, we tell you that we offered the U.S. administration to exchange this hostage for some of the detainees in Abu Ghraib and they refused," says a hooded man standing behind the American. "So we tell you that the dignity of the Muslim men and women in Abu Ghraib and others is not redeemed except by blood and souls. You will not receive anything from us but coffins after coffins, slaughtered in this way."

Let me repeat that just in case you skimmed over the details: "...the dignity of the Muslim men and women in Abu Ghraib and others is not redeemed except by blood and souls."

--- To all those Google

--- To all those Google searchers who find their way here after typing
in "Ray Reynolds SFC Hoax"
Please go here.

"I did write it and I am in Kuwait now on my way home. I wrote it while at home because I felt that too many people were exploiting the violence in Iraq to sell papers and gain votes. Sometimes the silent majority need to be awakened to respond to the bad things in our world. I am passionate about our President's decision and support this rebuilding whole heartedly...Yes legit..I am a fire fighter in Denison, Iowa and to verify, call Mike McKinnon of the Denison Iowa fire department."

--- To all those Google

--- To all those Google searchers who find their way here after typing
in "Ray Reynolds SFC Hoax"
Please go here.

"I did write it and I am in Kuwait now on my way home. I wrote it while at home because I felt that too many people were exploiting the violence in Iraq to sell papers and gain votes. Sometimes the silent majority need to be awakened to respond to the bad things in our world. I am passionate about our President's decision and support this rebuilding whole heartedly...Yes legit..I am a fire fighter in Denison, Iowa and to verify, call Mike McKinnon of the Denison Iowa fire department."

The Cake Eater Chronicles, as

The Cake Eater Chronicles, as of 1:29pm CDT, has had 601 hits, with 54
coming in the last hour, and pretty much all of you are looking for
information on Nick Berg---or at least that's what I assume you're
looking for when you type the phrase "Muntada Al Sadr" into Google and
it leads you here.
When I installed the site meter, I'd always thought this was going to
be the tool that would help me suss out when I'd struck a nerve. I
never thought I'd be swarmed by people searching for what the
mainstream media wasn't providing them. I guess I was wrong. If you're
looking for the Nick Berg Video please read this first. He says it much better than I ever could.

More video sources.

Wizbang, who,
besides hosting the video themselves, has also provided links to more
sites where you can see the video. They are all swamped, so it will
take some time, but it's available. It is also still available at Northeast Intelligence Network
Whomever you get the video from, remember bloggers do not have the
operational budgets that CNN or Fox News does. We pay for this stuff
out of our own pockets (and with a little help from our readers)
because we think there is a need for alternative forums for finding and
discussing news. If you're not familiar with how a website/blog is
maintained, know that the people who are hosting the video are going to
get fiscally crucified by their hosting providers for all the bandwidth
they're using by allowing access to this video. Be a good person and take care of them.
A few bucks in their tip jar from everyone who downloads the video will
go a long way toward covering their expenses. It will also ensure that
there isn't a foul taste left in their mouths---and a dent in their
checking accounts---because they picked up the mainstream media's
slack. Thanks for stopping by. Go forth and seek the truth!
UPDATE: Wizbang has further compiled a list o' sites that have the video. Go here.

The Cake Eater Chronicles, as

The Cake Eater Chronicles, as of 1:29pm CDT, has had 601 hits, with 54
coming in the last hour, and pretty much all of you are looking for
information on Nick Berg---or at least that's what I assume you're
looking for when you type the phrase "Muntada Al Sadr" into Google and
it leads you here.
When I installed the site meter, I'd always thought this was going to
be the tool that would help me suss out when I'd struck a nerve. I
never thought I'd be swarmed by people searching for what the
mainstream media wasn't providing them. I guess I was wrong. If you're
looking for the Nick Berg Video please read this first. He says it much better than I ever could.

More video sources.

Wizbang, who,
besides hosting the video themselves, has also provided links to more
sites where you can see the video. They are all swamped, so it will
take some time, but it's available. It is also still available at Northeast Intelligence Network
Whomever you get the video from, remember bloggers do not have the
operational budgets that CNN or Fox News does. We pay for this stuff
out of our own pockets (and with a little help from our readers)
because we think there is a need for alternative forums for finding and
discussing news. If you're not familiar with how a website/blog is
maintained, know that the people who are hosting the video are going to
get fiscally crucified by their hosting providers for all the bandwidth
they're using by allowing access to this video. Be a good person and take care of them.
A few bucks in their tip jar from everyone who downloads the video will
go a long way toward covering their expenses. It will also ensure that
there isn't a foul taste left in their mouths---and a dent in their
checking accounts---because they picked up the mainstream media's
slack. Thanks for stopping by. Go forth and seek the truth!
UPDATE: Wizbang has further compiled a list o' sites that have the video. Go here.

Anyone got one? Come on

Anyone got one? Come on people, this is the Internet. If you can't find it here, there isn't one to be had.

The warring parties signed three protocols late Wednesday on power-sharing and the administration of three disputed areas in central Sudan, clearing up the last remaining political issues needed for a final peace accord. The signing took place in Naivasha, 60 miles west of the Kenyan capital of Nairobi. The accord is unrelated to fighting in the Darfur region of western Sudan, where fighting between the government and rebels have raised fears of ethnic cleansing. All that remains for the two sides to work out are procedural matters to end the 21-year civil conflict, in which more than 2 million people have perished, mainly through war-induced famine. "The next step will entail negotiations on the detail of each step of the transition," chief mediator Lazaro Sumbeiywo told The Associated Press. "I am going to meet these groups now." Despite Wednesday's agreement, it could take months to determine if the diplomatic solution will translate to peace on the ground. Negotiators are expected to take a short break before returning to talks in Nairobi to iron out the final issues, including how the accord will be implemented. "I hope that by June we would have signed and completed the (final) deal," said Sayed el-Khatib, a Sudanese government negotiator. "This is the most detailed peace agreement that has probably been negotiated in the history of the world because of the problems we have had, the lack of trust and prolonged conflict." El-Khatib said the government hoped the deal with the southern rebels would help build bridges with the western insurgents. "Now the (Sudan People's Liberation Army) is going to be part of the government, that is going to encourage the rebels in Darfur to be less suspicious of the government when negotiating a settlement to the problem there," he said. "The southern rebels have had contacts with those in Darfur."

Apparently it's a 70/30 split as far as representation goes. The South gets 70 percent representation in the southern provinces, the North gets 30 percent. Flip it around for representation in the northern provinces. But still there isn't a cease-fricking-fire that's worth diddly squat. Will they get one done that will actually do something to stop the fighting? I'm not holding my breath. There's too many factions on either side who are willing to act independently of what their bosses tell them, and this is particularly true on the SPLA's side. It's progress, to be sure, but it's progress that could be easily forgotten if tensions flare again, which they might if Bashir gets the notion in his head to blame part of the troubles in Darfur on the SPLA.

Anyone got one? Come on

Anyone got one? Come on people, this is the Internet. If you can't find it here, there isn't one to be had.

The warring parties signed three protocols late Wednesday on power-sharing and the administration of three disputed areas in central Sudan, clearing up the last remaining political issues needed for a final peace accord. The signing took place in Naivasha, 60 miles west of the Kenyan capital of Nairobi. The accord is unrelated to fighting in the Darfur region of western Sudan, where fighting between the government and rebels have raised fears of ethnic cleansing. All that remains for the two sides to work out are procedural matters to end the 21-year civil conflict, in which more than 2 million people have perished, mainly through war-induced famine. "The next step will entail negotiations on the detail of each step of the transition," chief mediator Lazaro Sumbeiywo told The Associated Press. "I am going to meet these groups now." Despite Wednesday's agreement, it could take months to determine if the diplomatic solution will translate to peace on the ground. Negotiators are expected to take a short break before returning to talks in Nairobi to iron out the final issues, including how the accord will be implemented. "I hope that by June we would have signed and completed the (final) deal," said Sayed el-Khatib, a Sudanese government negotiator. "This is the most detailed peace agreement that has probably been negotiated in the history of the world because of the problems we have had, the lack of trust and prolonged conflict." El-Khatib said the government hoped the deal with the southern rebels would help build bridges with the western insurgents. "Now the (Sudan People's Liberation Army) is going to be part of the government, that is going to encourage the rebels in Darfur to be less suspicious of the government when negotiating a settlement to the problem there," he said. "The southern rebels have had contacts with those in Darfur."

Apparently it's a 70/30 split as far as representation goes. The South gets 70 percent representation in the southern provinces, the North gets 30 percent. Flip it around for representation in the northern provinces. But still there isn't a cease-fricking-fire that's worth diddly squat. Will they get one done that will actually do something to stop the fighting? I'm not holding my breath. There's too many factions on either side who are willing to act independently of what their bosses tell them, and this is particularly true on the SPLA's side. It's progress, to be sure, but it's progress that could be easily forgotten if tensions flare again, which they might if Bashir gets the notion in his head to blame part of the troubles in Darfur on the SPLA.

--- Something tells me that

--- Something tells me that joints aren't the only illegal substance
Altman's been ingesting. Crack, perhaps?

Hollywood maverick Robert Altman said he sparked up the after-dinner
spliff in the PM's presence during a party given by Dave Stewart.
Instead of fleeing from the room, the PM calmly continued to enjoy the
meal. But Mr Blair did not partake and certainly did not inhale, Mr
Altman said. Number 10 has refused to comment. "We were sitting there
smoking grass. He was sitting across from me, so I thought he was
pretty cool," Mr Altman said. But now, Mr Altman says, he mistook that
"cool" for openness when it was in fact a "pose". The director of the
acclaimed film Short Cuts said he had since been very disappointed by
the prime minister's relationship with President George Bush.
Oh, so Blair's obviously a poser when it comes to not objecting to
someone firing up a joint because he's with W on the war. Good grief.
The sixties were over thirty-five years ago. Could you stop with the
"everyone who's for the war is obviously a narc" reasoning, already.
Next thing you know, Altman will be chatting about Vietnam. {rolls
eyes}

--- Something tells me that

--- Something tells me that joints aren't the only illegal substance
Altman's been ingesting. Crack, perhaps?

Hollywood maverick Robert Altman said he sparked up the after-dinner
spliff in the PM's presence during a party given by Dave Stewart.
Instead of fleeing from the room, the PM calmly continued to enjoy the
meal. But Mr Blair did not partake and certainly did not inhale, Mr
Altman said. Number 10 has refused to comment. "We were sitting there
smoking grass. He was sitting across from me, so I thought he was
pretty cool," Mr Altman said. But now, Mr Altman says, he mistook that
"cool" for openness when it was in fact a "pose". The director of the
acclaimed film Short Cuts said he had since been very disappointed by
the prime minister's relationship with President George Bush.
Oh, so Blair's obviously a poser when it comes to not objecting to
someone firing up a joint because he's with W on the war. Good grief.
The sixties were over thirty-five years ago. Could you stop with the
"everyone who's for the war is obviously a narc" reasoning, already.
Next thing you know, Altman will be chatting about Vietnam. {rolls
eyes}

--- Now playing in the

--- Now playing in the Cake Eater Office.

Which, I'm sure, is driving the husband nuts. I can feel his hackles rising. He hates Prince.

This was intentional on my part. It's payback. And for him, I'm sure, it's a bitch.

You don't have to watch Dynasty to have an attitude! This will
teach him, however, not to download Rush drum solos. Ditto for Alex Van
Halen solos. And to subsequently drag out his unloved sticks and to
start banging along with whatshisname and Alex---while lagging behind
by a half beat. (To be fair---it's pretty amazing that he's only
lagging behind by a half-beat considering he hasn't played for ten
years. Alex and whatshisname are damn quick.)
I know the guy just wants another drum kit (he sold the one he did have
to pay for school), and I will oblige him because he's talented and
because he likes to play the drums, but damnit! His birthday isn't
until the end of July. There isn't a damn thing I can do about the
problem until then because I have to start collecting the egg cartons
that are needed for the soundproofing. It's one thing to drive me nuts.
It's another thing entirely to drive the entire neighborhood nuts, not
to mention the very nice people who share this fine house with us.
Patience, grasshopper!
Semi-related note to self: figure out what a snap repeater is and price
it.

--- Now playing in the

--- Now playing in the Cake Eater Office.

Which, I'm sure, is driving the husband nuts. I can feel his hackles rising. He hates Prince.

This was intentional on my part. It's payback. And for him, I'm sure, it's a bitch.

You don't have to watch Dynasty to have an attitude! This will
teach him, however, not to download Rush drum solos. Ditto for Alex Van
Halen solos. And to subsequently drag out his unloved sticks and to
start banging along with whatshisname and Alex---while lagging behind
by a half beat. (To be fair---it's pretty amazing that he's only
lagging behind by a half-beat considering he hasn't played for ten
years. Alex and whatshisname are damn quick.)
I know the guy just wants another drum kit (he sold the one he did have
to pay for school), and I will oblige him because he's talented and
because he likes to play the drums, but damnit! His birthday isn't
until the end of July. There isn't a damn thing I can do about the
problem until then because I have to start collecting the egg cartons
that are needed for the soundproofing. It's one thing to drive me nuts.
It's another thing entirely to drive the entire neighborhood nuts, not
to mention the very nice people who share this fine house with us.
Patience, grasshopper!
Semi-related note to self: figure out what a snap repeater is and price
it.

Gross. NEW YORK (Reuters) -

Gross.

NEW YORK (Reuters) - In the latest act of sanitizing New York's mean streets, lawmakers want to rid the city of a scourge most people are not even aware of -- previously worn lingerie being sold as new merchandise. Council members are mulling the proposed legislation after watching a local television news broadcast which claimed leading department stores, including Saks Fifth Avenue and Macy's, had tried to resell returned undergarments. Under current law, stores do not have to state whether undergarments on sale, including women's panties and thongs, have been bought and returned, although certain stores have developed their own policies. "This is a major consumer and health issue in that the amount of bacteria that can be transported from one person to another in just one wearing can be a health hazard," said council member Tony Avella.

I think I'll stick with Victoria's Secret's online shopping, thank you ever so much.

Gross. NEW YORK (Reuters) -

Gross.

NEW YORK (Reuters) - In the latest act of sanitizing New York's mean streets, lawmakers want to rid the city of a scourge most people are not even aware of -- previously worn lingerie being sold as new merchandise. Council members are mulling the proposed legislation after watching a local television news broadcast which claimed leading department stores, including Saks Fifth Avenue and Macy's, had tried to resell returned undergarments. Under current law, stores do not have to state whether undergarments on sale, including women's panties and thongs, have been bought and returned, although certain stores have developed their own policies. "This is a major consumer and health issue in that the amount of bacteria that can be transported from one person to another in just one wearing can be a health hazard," said council member Tony Avella.

I think I'll stick with Victoria's Secret's online shopping, thank you ever so much.

Obligatory warning to my mother:

Obligatory warning to my mother: DON'T READ THIS ONE (For those
of you who think I'm enforcing some sort of censorship on my mom and
depriving her of the choice to either read or not read and in the
meantime am trying to remain a good little girl in her eyes, well,
you're right. And she appreciates it. She does. And she's thanked me
for it. So there! She's always been of the mindset that sometimes
ignorance is bliss and I'm sure she'd much rather remain ignorant about
some of this stuff and I honestly can't blame her.)
For the rest of you, read this.

Then go and check this out.

Then adopt Stan's voice and say, Dude, that is f@#ked up!

Obligatory warning to my mother:

Obligatory warning to my mother: DON'T READ THIS ONE (For those
of you who think I'm enforcing some sort of censorship on my mom and
depriving her of the choice to either read or not read and in the
meantime am trying to remain a good little girl in her eyes, well,
you're right. And she appreciates it. She does. And she's thanked me
for it. So there! She's always been of the mindset that sometimes
ignorance is bliss and I'm sure she'd much rather remain ignorant about
some of this stuff and I honestly can't blame her.)
For the rest of you, read this.

Then go and check this out.

Then adopt Stan's voice and say, Dude, that is f@#ked up!

And of course you'll need

And of course you'll
need turrets for the archers and the boiling oil.
I'm sure the burglars will start using a trebuchet sooner rather than
later, so you'll also want to make sure you have fire extinguishers
handy when they send a flaming ball of shit over your wall of roses and
holly.

And of course you'll need

And of course you'll
need turrets for the archers and the boiling oil.
I'm sure the burglars will start using a trebuchet sooner rather than
later, so you'll also want to make sure you have fire extinguishers
handy when they send a flaming ball of shit over your wall of roses and
holly.

It's Sunday afternoon. Like Robert

It's Sunday afternoon. Like Robert the Llama Butcher, I don't really feel like reading the paper because it's bound to be full of blah, blah, blah, BushHitler bullshit.

So, we'll do this instead.

FIRSTS
First job: Unofficial: babysitting/mowing lawns. Age twelve. Official:
Telemarketing. For my brother's company. Age fourteen. The less said
about this experience, the better. I still feel ashamed about this
deal. First self-purchased CD:Steve Miller Band's Greatest Hits 1974-78.
First piercing/tattoo: I don't have any. Ugh. Ironically enough,
though, I married a man who has both a pierced ear (closed up now) and
a tattoo.
First enemy: Adam Gouttierre. He moved up from jerk to someone I really
hated in the seventh grade. Too bad his parents were really nice
people. He was their demon spawn. I never resorted to violence when
dealing with him because I liked his parents and I just wasn't that
type of person at that point in time. I see now that that was a
mistake. I should have smacked him.
LASTSLast big car ride: Minneapolis to Omaha in January for the
parentals 50th Anniversary part-aay. Last kiss: Five minutes ago. The
husband, of course. Quick smooch before he sat down to play Star Wars
Galaxies for the rest of the day. Although, I did get a nice peck on
the cheek from Mr. H. when I met him for coffee this morning.
Last library book checked out: Does it count if the husband checked it
out and you read it as well? Pattern Recognition by William Gibson. Great book.

Last movie seen: In the theater: Something's Gotta Give. (Yeah, I know. We have to get out more.) On DVD: Gosford Park.
Last beverage consumed: Coffee.
Last food consumed: Tortillas with cheese at one-thirty this morning.
Evil, I know.
Last phone call: Somebody called yesterday. I think.
Last CD played: The husband's got a mix of his going right now. He
named it, "Progression." It progresses from Cheap Trick to seriously
heavy metal. Tool's Learn to Swim
is currently playing so we're near the end of the CD. Last annoyance:
Nellie's having trouble with all the humidity. The condensation is
building up in the gas tank and she kept threatening to die on me this
morning as I was heading into Uptown. She finally settled down as I was
dodging potholes on Calhoun Parkway.
Last pop consumed: I'm consuming one now. A lovely glass of Diet Coke
with a slice of lime. Marvelous.
Last ice cream eaten: Honestly, I can't remember. It's been some time
since we've had some in the house. I think it was Lunds Bavarian
Raspberry. Mmmm.
Last shirt worn: The one I wore yesterday? A gray shortsleeved Nike
v-neck with white banding on the neck. Today, I'm wearing a brown
Banana Republic stretchy t-shirt that does wonders for boob
enhancement.
I....I AM: Clueless. As usual. I HAVE: To sit down and finish
training my dication software.
I WISH: We'd won the Powerball last week.
I HEAR: Traffic. The husband pounding commands into his keyboards that
will ultimately result in dead Storm Troopers. Joan Jett singing that
she doesn't give a damn about her Bad Reputation.
I SEARCH: 1. my fancy lens cleaning cloth 2. chapstick 3. my sunglass
clip for my glasses 4. my Merrells. 5. The car keys 6. The USB cable
for the camera. And that's all that I can remember at the present time.
Heh.
I REGRET: Not kicking the shit out of Adam Gouttierre. Or at least
taking a swing.
I LOVE: The husband. My family. My friends. Diet Coke with lime. Philip
Morris. I ALWAYS: forget to eat until I'm about ready to pass out. Like
right now. FAVORITES

NUMBER: zero. I love that they had to invent it.

COLOR: RED!

DAY: Thursday.

MONTH: No idea. Like any good dyed-in-the-wool pessimist I can tell you what my least
favorite month is and that would be January. It sucks.
SONG(S): Too many to list here. SEASON: Spring.
DRINK: Alcoholic: Sappire and tonic, lime on the bottom. Chardonnay.
The occasional beer sits well on a hot summers day, too. Non-Alcoholic:
Milk, Diet Coke, Water, IBC Root Beer.

It's Sunday afternoon. Like Robert

It's Sunday afternoon. Like Robert the Llama Butcher, I don't really feel like reading the paper because it's bound to be full of blah, blah, blah, BushHitler bullshit.

So, we'll do this instead.

FIRSTS
First job: Unofficial: babysitting/mowing lawns. Age twelve. Official:
Telemarketing. For my brother's company. Age fourteen. The less said
about this experience, the better. I still feel ashamed about this
deal. First self-purchased CD:Steve Miller Band's Greatest Hits 1974-78.
First piercing/tattoo: I don't have any. Ugh. Ironically enough,
though, I married a man who has both a pierced ear (closed up now) and
a tattoo.
First enemy: Adam Gouttierre. He moved up from jerk to someone I really
hated in the seventh grade. Too bad his parents were really nice
people. He was their demon spawn. I never resorted to violence when
dealing with him because I liked his parents and I just wasn't that
type of person at that point in time. I see now that that was a
mistake. I should have smacked him.
LASTSLast big car ride: Minneapolis to Omaha in January for the
parentals 50th Anniversary part-aay. Last kiss: Five minutes ago. The
husband, of course. Quick smooch before he sat down to play Star Wars
Galaxies for the rest of the day. Although, I did get a nice peck on
the cheek from Mr. H. when I met him for coffee this morning.
Last library book checked out: Does it count if the husband checked it
out and you read it as well? Pattern Recognition by William Gibson. Great book.

Last movie seen: In the theater: Something's Gotta Give. (Yeah, I know. We have to get out more.) On DVD: Gosford Park.
Last beverage consumed: Coffee.
Last food consumed: Tortillas with cheese at one-thirty this morning.
Evil, I know.
Last phone call: Somebody called yesterday. I think.
Last CD played: The husband's got a mix of his going right now. He
named it, "Progression." It progresses from Cheap Trick to seriously
heavy metal. Tool's Learn to Swim
is currently playing so we're near the end of the CD. Last annoyance:
Nellie's having trouble with all the humidity. The condensation is
building up in the gas tank and she kept threatening to die on me this
morning as I was heading into Uptown. She finally settled down as I was
dodging potholes on Calhoun Parkway.
Last pop consumed: I'm consuming one now. A lovely glass of Diet Coke
with a slice of lime. Marvelous.
Last ice cream eaten: Honestly, I can't remember. It's been some time
since we've had some in the house. I think it was Lunds Bavarian
Raspberry. Mmmm.
Last shirt worn: The one I wore yesterday? A gray shortsleeved Nike
v-neck with white banding on the neck. Today, I'm wearing a brown
Banana Republic stretchy t-shirt that does wonders for boob
enhancement.
I....I AM: Clueless. As usual. I HAVE: To sit down and finish
training my dication software.
I WISH: We'd won the Powerball last week.
I HEAR: Traffic. The husband pounding commands into his keyboards that
will ultimately result in dead Storm Troopers. Joan Jett singing that
she doesn't give a damn about her Bad Reputation.
I SEARCH: 1. my fancy lens cleaning cloth 2. chapstick 3. my sunglass
clip for my glasses 4. my Merrells. 5. The car keys 6. The USB cable
for the camera. And that's all that I can remember at the present time.
Heh.
I REGRET: Not kicking the shit out of Adam Gouttierre. Or at least
taking a swing.
I LOVE: The husband. My family. My friends. Diet Coke with lime. Philip
Morris. I ALWAYS: forget to eat until I'm about ready to pass out. Like
right now. FAVORITES

NUMBER: zero. I love that they had to invent it.

COLOR: RED!

DAY: Thursday.

MONTH: No idea. Like any good dyed-in-the-wool pessimist I can tell you what my least
favorite month is and that would be January. It sucks.
SONG(S): Too many to list here. SEASON: Spring.
DRINK: Alcoholic: Sappire and tonic, lime on the bottom. Chardonnay.
The occasional beer sits well on a hot summers day, too. Non-Alcoholic:
Milk, Diet Coke, Water, IBC Root Beer.

Until about three or thereabouts.

Until about three or thereabouts. I was working on the manuscript.
I don't know what it is about writing---particularly when working on
the manuscript---that makes me lose track of time. I'll settle down to
work, I'll plug away for a while, then I'll look at the clock
and---whammo! I will have lost three or four hours. They're gone.
Whoosh. They've melted away like the Wicked Witch of the West in the Wizard of Oz
and the remnants can now be found somewhere near those of Salvador
Dali's brain. It's so damn wierd, but I'm used to it...almost. Anyway,
when I pulled away from the laptop to finally notice the time, all of
my senses that had lain dormant for the preceding few hours suddenly
came alive again. I noticed I was a wee bit cold as the window was
still wide open. I noticed the office stank of cigarette smoke (I don't
pay attention to how much I'm smoking when I'm working.)And the guy on
the classical station---Minnesota Public Radio---was saying in his very
soothing "Music Through the Night" voice that coming up in the next
hour (three to four---am) would be the thoughts of "commentator James
Lileks" on some piece of music that I didn't quite catch in my haze.
I was too tired to stay up and listen for it, but I suppose if all of
you Lileks-lovers go trolling through MPR's site,
you might be able to find what piece of music he was enamored with.
With that, I'm announcing that I'm fairly useless today. Don't have
great expectations for excellent, insightful blogging today.

Until about three or thereabouts.

Until about three or thereabouts. I was working on the manuscript.
I don't know what it is about writing---particularly when working on
the manuscript---that makes me lose track of time. I'll settle down to
work, I'll plug away for a while, then I'll look at the clock
and---whammo! I will have lost three or four hours. They're gone.
Whoosh. They've melted away like the Wicked Witch of the West in the Wizard of Oz
and the remnants can now be found somewhere near those of Salvador
Dali's brain. It's so damn wierd, but I'm used to it...almost. Anyway,
when I pulled away from the laptop to finally notice the time, all of
my senses that had lain dormant for the preceding few hours suddenly
came alive again. I noticed I was a wee bit cold as the window was
still wide open. I noticed the office stank of cigarette smoke (I don't
pay attention to how much I'm smoking when I'm working.)And the guy on
the classical station---Minnesota Public Radio---was saying in his very
soothing "Music Through the Night" voice that coming up in the next
hour (three to four---am) would be the thoughts of "commentator James
Lileks" on some piece of music that I didn't quite catch in my haze.
I was too tired to stay up and listen for it, but I suppose if all of
you Lileks-lovers go trolling through MPR's site,
you might be able to find what piece of music he was enamored with.
With that, I'm announcing that I'm fairly useless today. Don't have
great expectations for excellent, insightful blogging today.

Michele would like your help

Michele would like your help to make some.

Michele would like your help

Michele would like your help to make some.

In Lenexa, Kansas, my nephew

In Lenexa, Kansas, my nephew is hoping that school might be cancelled tomorrow.
I can guarantee it.

In Lenexa, Kansas, my nephew

In Lenexa, Kansas, my nephew is hoping that school might be cancelled tomorrow.
I can guarantee it.

Mr. H. has been busy

Mr. H. has been busy sending out postcards promoting the Illusion's
upcoming production, Vanishing Point, so I thought I'd help out with the marketing of said production to make his life a wee bit easier.

If you're in Minneapolis or will be visiting somewhere between June 11 and July 3, you will want to go and check Vanishing Point out.

It's musical theater with a fascinating theme:

VANISHING POINT returns to Illusion as a full production, with wit and audacity inspired by author Agatha Christie, aviator Amelia Earhart, and evangelist Aimee Semple McPherson. These early 20th-century women each disappeared at some time during their lives, and the remote island setting of the play becomes their common "vanishing point." Will they each choose to remain a "missing person," or will they go back to the normal routines of their lives? The mystery unfolds through a gorgeous score by Rob Hartmann and soaring performances by Patty Nieman (Christie), Aimee K. Bryant (Earhart), and Beth Gilleland (McPherson).

Honestly, I don't know about the other actors in this musical, but Aimee Bryant is a phenomenal actor whom I seen in productions at the Illusion before and she will knock your socks off every time. The best way to describe Aimee's talent is that she's "gifted." And when she sings---oh, man. She opens her mouth and perfection comes flying out. If you live in the Twin Cities, you will want to get down to the theater and see her perform. She will be a big star one day and you will be able to say you saw her way back when she was performing in Minneapolis. I guarantee it. She oozes talent. Go and check it out if you get the chance.

Mr. H. has been busy

Mr. H. has been busy sending out postcards promoting the Illusion's
upcoming production, Vanishing Point, so I thought I'd help out with the marketing of said production to make his life a wee bit easier.

If you're in Minneapolis or will be visiting somewhere between June 11 and July 3, you will want to go and check Vanishing Point out.

It's musical theater with a fascinating theme:

VANISHING POINT returns to Illusion as a full production, with wit and audacity inspired by author Agatha Christie, aviator Amelia Earhart, and evangelist Aimee Semple McPherson. These early 20th-century women each disappeared at some time during their lives, and the remote island setting of the play becomes their common "vanishing point." Will they each choose to remain a "missing person," or will they go back to the normal routines of their lives? The mystery unfolds through a gorgeous score by Rob Hartmann and soaring performances by Patty Nieman (Christie), Aimee K. Bryant (Earhart), and Beth Gilleland (McPherson).

Honestly, I don't know about the other actors in this musical, but Aimee Bryant is a phenomenal actor whom I seen in productions at the Illusion before and she will knock your socks off every time. The best way to describe Aimee's talent is that she's "gifted." And when she sings---oh, man. She opens her mouth and perfection comes flying out. If you live in the Twin Cities, you will want to get down to the theater and see her perform. She will be a big star one day and you will be able to say you saw her way back when she was performing in Minneapolis. I guarantee it. She oozes talent. Go and check it out if you get the chance.

When I was growing up

When I was growing up in Omaha, I would walk the mile or so from home
to school twice a day. I know. It sounds odd nowadays, doesn't it? A
kid walking
to a school that was a mile away from her house. But that was the way
it was back then. And no one thought twice about it. In fact, I still
see kids from my school, wearing the same uniforms we wore back then,
making that familiar trek. I hated the walk, though. Particularly on
the way home, as there was a huge hill, sloped at a daunting forty-two
degrees (we measured it one day with a protractor---I make no claims
for the accuracy of that measurement)that looked much like Mount
Everest when your backpack was crammed with heavy text books. But once
you crested that hill, you could breathe a huge sigh of relief as it
was smooth---flat---sailing all the way home. As far as walks go, I've
learned over the years that my walk to school was an interesting one in
an aesthetic sense. It could have been much worse. We could have walked
through slums. Instead, we had beautiful old houses in an old
neighborhood to look at. We could have been scorched by the hot
Nebraska sun. In reality, however, we had ample shade from all of the
established trees. We could have had to dodge five lanes of traffic on
an overly busy street with an exceedingly short light-cycle to get to
the school. Instead, we had an overpass that took us fifty feet above
the street and delivered us to the other side. We could have had vacant
lots to look at, but instead we had Memorial Park
and its famous rose gardens. Now, I never really thought all that much
about the "Memorial" in Memorial Park. It was just one of those places
I saw every day of my life. It was where we went sledding in the
winter. It was where we flew kites in March. It was where my brothers
would go to play a game of pickup soccer or football. It simply a park
that was next-door to my church and my school. It was the last place I
saw before I walked into school, and the first place I saw when I went
home. It wasn't until I was older that I realized that the huge,
gleaming, white colonnade was supposed to represent something. One
Saturday, when I was fourteen or so, I actually read the plaques that
are sparsley placed around the park and it was mildly surprising to
realize that it wasn't just a park after all. That this place I had
seen every day of my life actually had a purpose other than the one I
had assigned to it. I had thought it was just a huge expanse of green
space where people liked to go to play. That's all it meant to me at
that point. It honestly never occurred to me that it was meant to honor
those who had passed before us, giving their lives so that we might be
free. It was then that I stopped taking it for granted and appreciated
it all the more. It has struck me, over the years, how many people
continue to ignore places like Memorial Park. The most memorable
example is from college. At the Union at Iowa State, there is a
vestibule that leads out to the fountains and central campus. The Union
is a glorious old building and it was built in a time when
architectural beauty meant stone, marble and gleaming floors; it meant
sweeping staircases and large archways leading into high-cielinged
rooms replete with gracefully arched, twenty-foot windows. That
beautiful vestibule is meant to be the main entrance into the Union and
to denote its stature as such, it was built out of fine stone, smooth
to the touch, opaque to the eye, and meant to last. The names of those
Iowa State University students who died in WWI, WWII, Korea and Vietnam
are carved into the vestibule walls. Unfortunately, there is also a
small amount of blank space on that curved wall, left for those who
might die in future wars. But no one pays them any attention. Because
that vestibule also happens to be where a large, decorative bronze
relief of the Zodiac
was placed into the granite floor. School legend has it that if you
walk directly over the Zodiac, you will fail your next test. You can
stand there and watch the paranoia at work: every single person---even
the professors---who enters the Union by that door will take pains to
walk around the Zodiac and not over it. After all, you wouldn't
want to flunk your next test, would you? Unsurprisingly, the Zodiac
shows very little wear and tear. In the wintertime, the Union
janitorial staff even places the floor mats around the Zodiac, where
the people walk, and not over it. What would the point be? But this act
of paying heed to superstition brings these people within mere inches
of the names of those who died fighting for our freedom. Do people pay
attention? No. They're more interested in not flunking their next exam.
On this Memorial Day, I would simply ask you to pay attention to all
those things you pass by on a daily basis that were originally meant to
make you remember the sacrifices of those who came before you. Pay
attention and notice them, even if you pass them every day of your
life. Let those monuments to those who died for our freedom serve their
intended purpose: to make you remember how lucky you are that someone
was willing to fight so that you might live in freedom.

When I was growing up

When I was growing up in Omaha, I would walk the mile or so from home
to school twice a day. I know. It sounds odd nowadays, doesn't it? A
kid walking
to a school that was a mile away from her house. But that was the way
it was back then. And no one thought twice about it. In fact, I still
see kids from my school, wearing the same uniforms we wore back then,
making that familiar trek. I hated the walk, though. Particularly on
the way home, as there was a huge hill, sloped at a daunting forty-two
degrees (we measured it one day with a protractor---I make no claims
for the accuracy of that measurement)that looked much like Mount
Everest when your backpack was crammed with heavy text books. But once
you crested that hill, you could breathe a huge sigh of relief as it
was smooth---flat---sailing all the way home. As far as walks go, I've
learned over the years that my walk to school was an interesting one in
an aesthetic sense. It could have been much worse. We could have walked
through slums. Instead, we had beautiful old houses in an old
neighborhood to look at. We could have been scorched by the hot
Nebraska sun. In reality, however, we had ample shade from all of the
established trees. We could have had to dodge five lanes of traffic on
an overly busy street with an exceedingly short light-cycle to get to
the school. Instead, we had an overpass that took us fifty feet above
the street and delivered us to the other side. We could have had vacant
lots to look at, but instead we had Memorial Park
and its famous rose gardens. Now, I never really thought all that much
about the "Memorial" in Memorial Park. It was just one of those places
I saw every day of my life. It was where we went sledding in the
winter. It was where we flew kites in March. It was where my brothers
would go to play a game of pickup soccer or football. It simply a park
that was next-door to my church and my school. It was the last place I
saw before I walked into school, and the first place I saw when I went
home. It wasn't until I was older that I realized that the huge,
gleaming, white colonnade was supposed to represent something. One
Saturday, when I was fourteen or so, I actually read the plaques that
are sparsley placed around the park and it was mildly surprising to
realize that it wasn't just a park after all. That this place I had
seen every day of my life actually had a purpose other than the one I
had assigned to it. I had thought it was just a huge expanse of green
space where people liked to go to play. That's all it meant to me at
that point. It honestly never occurred to me that it was meant to honor
those who had passed before us, giving their lives so that we might be
free. It was then that I stopped taking it for granted and appreciated
it all the more. It has struck me, over the years, how many people
continue to ignore places like Memorial Park. The most memorable
example is from college. At the Union at Iowa State, there is a
vestibule that leads out to the fountains and central campus. The Union
is a glorious old building and it was built in a time when
architectural beauty meant stone, marble and gleaming floors; it meant
sweeping staircases and large archways leading into high-cielinged
rooms replete with gracefully arched, twenty-foot windows. That
beautiful vestibule is meant to be the main entrance into the Union and
to denote its stature as such, it was built out of fine stone, smooth
to the touch, opaque to the eye, and meant to last. The names of those
Iowa State University students who died in WWI, WWII, Korea and Vietnam
are carved into the vestibule walls. Unfortunately, there is also a
small amount of blank space on that curved wall, left for those who
might die in future wars. But no one pays them any attention. Because
that vestibule also happens to be where a large, decorative bronze
relief of the Zodiac
was placed into the granite floor. School legend has it that if you
walk directly over the Zodiac, you will fail your next test. You can
stand there and watch the paranoia at work: every single person---even
the professors---who enters the Union by that door will take pains to
walk around the Zodiac and not over it. After all, you wouldn't
want to flunk your next test, would you? Unsurprisingly, the Zodiac
shows very little wear and tear. In the wintertime, the Union
janitorial staff even places the floor mats around the Zodiac, where
the people walk, and not over it. What would the point be? But this act
of paying heed to superstition brings these people within mere inches
of the names of those who died fighting for our freedom. Do people pay
attention? No. They're more interested in not flunking their next exam.
On this Memorial Day, I would simply ask you to pay attention to all
those things you pass by on a daily basis that were originally meant to
make you remember the sacrifices of those who came before you. Pay
attention and notice them, even if you pass them every day of your
life. Let those monuments to those who died for our freedom serve their
intended purpose: to make you remember how lucky you are that someone
was willing to fight so that you might live in freedom.

Courtesy of Michele and Garrulitis

Courtesy of Michele and Garrulitis in response to this article.

NEW YORK — American athletes have been warned not to wave the U.S. flag during their medal celebrations at this summer's Olympic Games in Athens, for fear of provoking crowd hostility and harming the country's already-battered public image. The spectacle of victorious athletes grabbing a national flag and parading it around the stadium is a familiar part of international sporting competition, but U.S. Olympic officials have ordered their 550-strong team to exercise restraint and avoid any jingoistic behavior. The plan is part of a charm offensive aimed at repairing the country's international reputation after the deepening crisis in Iraq and damaging revelations of the mistreatment of Iraqi prisoners by U.S. forces at the Abu Ghraib prison. "American athletes find themselves in extraordinary circumstances in Athens in relation to the world as we know it right now," said Mike Moran, a veteran former spokesman for the United States Olympic Committee who has been retained as a consultant to advise athletes how to behave. "Regardless of whether there is anti-American sentiment in Athens or not, the world watches Americans a lot now in terms of how they behave and our culture. What I am trying to do with the athletes and coaches is to suggest to them that they consider how the normal things they do at an event, including the Olympics, might be viewed as confrontational or insulting or cause embarrassment."

Forgive me for sounding like a jingo, but who in the name of God cares what the rest of the world thinks about us. God, it's so effing juvenile. Why on earth should we mount a "charm offensive" for people who are never going to be impressed with us, no matter what we do or what we say? Are we, as a country, really so damn needy that it's essential for everyone to like us? Apparently, the USOC thinks so. Hence "the charm offensive." Don't wave the flag around, don't jump up and down and hoot and holler and be obnoxious about your victory. Don't piss anyone off, and then maybe people will like you. Working under the Dennis Miller's theorem that "life is just tall grade school," let's apply the lessons of grade school to this problem. Grade school lesson #1: people will never like you because you want them to like you. They will either like you or they won't. Simple fact o' life.

I was not a popular kid. Shocking, I know. I spent years
trying to get people to like me. I cried. I bent over backwards to
please the Gods of popularity. I wondered and wondered what I could do
to get people to like me. I worked at it and nothing ever came of it.
You know what finally worked? Just being myself and the attitude that
anyone who didn't like it could go hang. It's a brutal lesson to learn,
because you think it's your fault that people despise you and snicker
about you behind your back. You think that you should be able to change
people's impressions. The hard truth says otherwise: most of the time
it's not your fault. Yes, there are the moments when you are an ass and
you deserve the ridicule that you recieve, but those are far and few in
between when you're an unpopular kid. Trust me on this one. The amount
of ridicule I received never equalled the times I was an ass. Although,
it sure as hell didn't feel like it at the time. It always felt like I
deserved it.
What the situation essentially boils down to is that you are trying to
leap the insurmountable wall of other people's incorrect assumptions
and you will never get there. Not even if you're the school pole
vaulting champion. You will always knock down the bar and you will hit
the mat...hard. You eventually learn that you have absolute absolutely
no control over what anyone thinks of you. You just don't. Does this
give you license to act like an ass? No. But it doesn't mean that
you're automatically an idiot because someone says you are, either. I
am not a needy individual, nor do I think my fellow citizens on the
USOC should be so damn needy as to hire a consultant to teach athletes
not to flaunt their patriotism because they just want people to like
Americans.
Commenters over at Michele's place and on other blogs have said that we
should just boycott the Olympics altogether. No. This is the wrong
thing to do. We should go. Why? Because, like the UN, the idea behind
the Olympics is worthy of paying homage to.

According to the Olympic Charter,
established by Pierre de Coubertin, the goal of the Olympic Movement is
to contribute to building a peaceful and better world by educating
youth through sport practised without discrimination of any kind and in
the Olympic spirit, which requires mutual understanding with a spirit
of friendship, solidarity and fair play.

Never mind the practicalities, the ideals
are what has made humanity so damn good, and are also what has made the
Olympics something to watch and wonder about for reasons other than the
sporting events. It's one of those "big ideas" that changed the world.
Noting that discrimination and mutual understanding, solidarity and
fair play should be a part of international sport is a big idea.
America is a part of the Western world. We are a democracy. The ideals
of the Olympic games are modeled in democracy, not totalitarianism. Not
fascism. Not communism. Democracy. Our values are a part of
what makes the Olympic ideal something to be aspired to. If American
athletes should attend the games with bowed heads, apologetic hearts,
while whispering a prayer that they don't offend someone with their
ideals, what does that say about how highly we value ourselves and by
that right, our ideals? It says, in essence, that our ideals suck. That
we're sorry for having them. That, to me, is just wrong.

Courtesy of Michele and Garrulitis

Courtesy of Michele and Garrulitis in response to this article.

NEW YORK — American athletes have been warned not to wave the U.S. flag during their medal celebrations at this summer's Olympic Games in Athens, for fear of provoking crowd hostility and harming the country's already-battered public image. The spectacle of victorious athletes grabbing a national flag and parading it around the stadium is a familiar part of international sporting competition, but U.S. Olympic officials have ordered their 550-strong team to exercise restraint and avoid any jingoistic behavior. The plan is part of a charm offensive aimed at repairing the country's international reputation after the deepening crisis in Iraq and damaging revelations of the mistreatment of Iraqi prisoners by U.S. forces at the Abu Ghraib prison. "American athletes find themselves in extraordinary circumstances in Athens in relation to the world as we know it right now," said Mike Moran, a veteran former spokesman for the United States Olympic Committee who has been retained as a consultant to advise athletes how to behave. "Regardless of whether there is anti-American sentiment in Athens or not, the world watches Americans a lot now in terms of how they behave and our culture. What I am trying to do with the athletes and coaches is to suggest to them that they consider how the normal things they do at an event, including the Olympics, might be viewed as confrontational or insulting or cause embarrassment."

Forgive me for sounding like a jingo, but who in the name of God cares what the rest of the world thinks about us. God, it's so effing juvenile. Why on earth should we mount a "charm offensive" for people who are never going to be impressed with us, no matter what we do or what we say? Are we, as a country, really so damn needy that it's essential for everyone to like us? Apparently, the USOC thinks so. Hence "the charm offensive." Don't wave the flag around, don't jump up and down and hoot and holler and be obnoxious about your victory. Don't piss anyone off, and then maybe people will like you. Working under the Dennis Miller's theorem that "life is just tall grade school," let's apply the lessons of grade school to this problem. Grade school lesson #1: people will never like you because you want them to like you. They will either like you or they won't. Simple fact o' life.

I was not a popular kid. Shocking, I know. I spent years
trying to get people to like me. I cried. I bent over backwards to
please the Gods of popularity. I wondered and wondered what I could do
to get people to like me. I worked at it and nothing ever came of it.
You know what finally worked? Just being myself and the attitude that
anyone who didn't like it could go hang. It's a brutal lesson to learn,
because you think it's your fault that people despise you and snicker
about you behind your back. You think that you should be able to change
people's impressions. The hard truth says otherwise: most of the time
it's not your fault. Yes, there are the moments when you are an ass and
you deserve the ridicule that you recieve, but those are far and few in
between when you're an unpopular kid. Trust me on this one. The amount
of ridicule I received never equalled the times I was an ass. Although,
it sure as hell didn't feel like it at the time. It always felt like I
deserved it.
What the situation essentially boils down to is that you are trying to
leap the insurmountable wall of other people's incorrect assumptions
and you will never get there. Not even if you're the school pole
vaulting champion. You will always knock down the bar and you will hit
the mat...hard. You eventually learn that you have absolute absolutely
no control over what anyone thinks of you. You just don't. Does this
give you license to act like an ass? No. But it doesn't mean that
you're automatically an idiot because someone says you are, either. I
am not a needy individual, nor do I think my fellow citizens on the
USOC should be so damn needy as to hire a consultant to teach athletes
not to flaunt their patriotism because they just want people to like
Americans.
Commenters over at Michele's place and on other blogs have said that we
should just boycott the Olympics altogether. No. This is the wrong
thing to do. We should go. Why? Because, like the UN, the idea behind
the Olympics is worthy of paying homage to.

According to the Olympic Charter,
established by Pierre de Coubertin, the goal of the Olympic Movement is
to contribute to building a peaceful and better world by educating
youth through sport practised without discrimination of any kind and in
the Olympic spirit, which requires mutual understanding with a spirit
of friendship, solidarity and fair play.

Never mind the practicalities, the ideals
are what has made humanity so damn good, and are also what has made the
Olympics something to watch and wonder about for reasons other than the
sporting events. It's one of those "big ideas" that changed the world.
Noting that discrimination and mutual understanding, solidarity and
fair play should be a part of international sport is a big idea.
America is a part of the Western world. We are a democracy. The ideals
of the Olympic games are modeled in democracy, not totalitarianism. Not
fascism. Not communism. Democracy. Our values are a part of
what makes the Olympic ideal something to be aspired to. If American
athletes should attend the games with bowed heads, apologetic hearts,
while whispering a prayer that they don't offend someone with their
ideals, what does that say about how highly we value ourselves and by
that right, our ideals? It says, in essence, that our ideals suck. That
we're sorry for having them. That, to me, is just wrong.

Mr. H. loves roller coasters.

Mr. H. loves roller coasters. He goes out of his way to go to amusement
parks because he loves the adrenaline rush. For the past few years he's
been trying to get a group together to drive to Ohio to hit all the
coasters on King's Island (I think that's the name of it). Never mind
the fact that that's a really long drive from the Twin Cities, he wants
to go. In the past, he's actually volunteered to ferry ML's and the
Doctor's kids through Six Flags outside of Chicago (he had a blast,
too). So, this one is for him. Enjoy, darling. And know that if ever I
find out that you took part in trying to break this record, the
friendship's off. This
is not safe for gazing upon while you're at work or if you are a person
of strong moral value who does not like to look at pictures of naked
people. (Mom, don't open this one up)

Mr. H. loves roller coasters.

Mr. H. loves roller coasters. He goes out of his way to go to amusement
parks because he loves the adrenaline rush. For the past few years he's
been trying to get a group together to drive to Ohio to hit all the
coasters on King's Island (I think that's the name of it). Never mind
the fact that that's a really long drive from the Twin Cities, he wants
to go. In the past, he's actually volunteered to ferry ML's and the
Doctor's kids through Six Flags outside of Chicago (he had a blast,
too). So, this one is for him. Enjoy, darling. And know that if ever I
find out that you took part in trying to break this record, the
friendship's off. This
is not safe for gazing upon while you're at work or if you are a person
of strong moral value who does not like to look at pictures of naked
people. (Mom, don't open this one up)

And yes, I did mean

And yes, I did mean to put the "Majors" in her name. I'm not so out of
it that I didn't know she divorced the Six Million Dollar Man eons ago.
It's a direct tribute to that era of Farrah's hairstyle---she was
married to the guy, she was on Charlie's Angels
and she had the ultimate feathered-do.
The reference all comes together quite nicely, don't you think? Because
you thought of Farrah in her Charlie days, didn't you? I know you did.
Don't lie to me. Anyway, I've been growing my mane out for about a year
now, and since my old do was a nice layered job, the layers have grown
out and, at times, I look like a brunette Farrah.
This morning would be one of those times.
I can't decide whether I like this or not. I suppose, however, I'll
figure it out before I chop off all this freakin'
hair sometime this summer, after it becomes too hot for my poor neck.
(I have exceedingly thick, naturally curly hair---which is its own
frizzy trial on humid days)
I do however feel like sitting down on a sofa with my compadres, in
front of a speaker phone placed prominently on Bosley's desk, and doing
my darndest to solve a crime whilst simultaneously attempting to suss
out just what Charlie looks like.
It's going to be one of those days, folks. Beware.

And yes, I did mean

And yes, I did mean to put the "Majors" in her name. I'm not so out of
it that I didn't know she divorced the Six Million Dollar Man eons ago.
It's a direct tribute to that era of Farrah's hairstyle---she was
married to the guy, she was on Charlie's Angels
and she had the ultimate feathered-do.
The reference all comes together quite nicely, don't you think? Because
you thought of Farrah in her Charlie days, didn't you? I know you did.
Don't lie to me. Anyway, I've been growing my mane out for about a year
now, and since my old do was a nice layered job, the layers have grown
out and, at times, I look like a brunette Farrah.
This morning would be one of those times.
I can't decide whether I like this or not. I suppose, however, I'll
figure it out before I chop off all this freakin'
hair sometime this summer, after it becomes too hot for my poor neck.
(I have exceedingly thick, naturally curly hair---which is its own
frizzy trial on humid days)
I do however feel like sitting down on a sofa with my compadres, in
front of a speaker phone placed prominently on Bosley's desk, and doing
my darndest to solve a crime whilst simultaneously attempting to suss
out just what Charlie looks like.
It's going to be one of those days, folks. Beware.

...when I tell him this

...when I tell him this frightens me.

Mr Gates made a point of dwelling on blogs and said that although they started in the technical community and have come to be a broader social phenomenon, businesses can use them too. They had advantages over more traditional ways of keeping in touch such as e-mail and websites, he said. E-mail messages could be too imposing or miss out key people who should be included, said Mr Gates. Websites were a problem too, he added, because they demand that people visit them regularly to find out if anything has changed and require regular updating to avoid going stale. These problems could be solved, said Mr Gates, by using blogs and Real Simple Syndication (RSS), that lets people know when a favourite journal is updated. "What blogging and these notifications are about is that you make it very easy to communicate," he said. "The ultimate idea is that you should get the information you want when you want it." {...}Microsoft currently does not make any individual blogging tools but it is widely expected to move into this space soon. If it does the move would pitch it into even sharper competition with Google and others such as AOL.

I don't want Microsquash in this market. I really, really, really don't. Gates has a habit of throwing money around to gain access to the pie du jour for his sticky fingers. I don't want him goofing up the blogging market with his gobs of cash. For months now, I've been bitching about Blogger. It's a pretty low-tech excursion---or at least it used to be. But all that's changed in the last two weeks. I adore Blogger now that they've done the upgrade. I now have permalinks. I have comments. I have a nifty template, but most of all, I have free hosting. Blogger is free because they're ad-revenue based. Now I read I get free photo hosting as well. I have no idea how long Google's munificence is going to last---I'm assuming that at some point in time they'll start charging for all of this stuff, but right now I'm taking it while I can. But if nerdboy wants into this market, well, that changes things. The husband, Mr. IT Strategy, tells me this is nothing to worry about. That anything Microsquash comes up with will mainly be for business apps, and they'll eventually lose money because other services---Google---are offering this service for free. He says that I should look at the history of IM'ing to see what will ultimately happen with blogs. I dunno. What happens in the meantime and what sort of turmoil will the rest of us have to suffer through because nerdboy wants to rule the world? {hat tip: Adam Curry}

...when I tell him this

...when I tell him this frightens me.

Mr Gates made a point of dwelling on blogs and said that although they started in the technical community and have come to be a broader social phenomenon, businesses can use them too. They had advantages over more traditional ways of keeping in touch such as e-mail and websites, he said. E-mail messages could be too imposing or miss out key people who should be included, said Mr Gates. Websites were a problem too, he added, because they demand that people visit them regularly to find out if anything has changed and require regular updating to avoid going stale. These problems could be solved, said Mr Gates, by using blogs and Real Simple Syndication (RSS), that lets people know when a favourite journal is updated. "What blogging and these notifications are about is that you make it very easy to communicate," he said. "The ultimate idea is that you should get the information you want when you want it." {...}Microsoft currently does not make any individual blogging tools but it is widely expected to move into this space soon. If it does the move would pitch it into even sharper competition with Google and others such as AOL.

I don't want Microsquash in this market. I really, really, really don't. Gates has a habit of throwing money around to gain access to the pie du jour for his sticky fingers. I don't want him goofing up the blogging market with his gobs of cash. For months now, I've been bitching about Blogger. It's a pretty low-tech excursion---or at least it used to be. But all that's changed in the last two weeks. I adore Blogger now that they've done the upgrade. I now have permalinks. I have comments. I have a nifty template, but most of all, I have free hosting. Blogger is free because they're ad-revenue based. Now I read I get free photo hosting as well. I have no idea how long Google's munificence is going to last---I'm assuming that at some point in time they'll start charging for all of this stuff, but right now I'm taking it while I can. But if nerdboy wants into this market, well, that changes things. The husband, Mr. IT Strategy, tells me this is nothing to worry about. That anything Microsquash comes up with will mainly be for business apps, and they'll eventually lose money because other services---Google---are offering this service for free. He says that I should look at the history of IM'ing to see what will ultimately happen with blogs. I dunno. What happens in the meantime and what sort of turmoil will the rest of us have to suffer through because nerdboy wants to rule the world? {hat tip: Adam Curry}

There are days when I

There are days when I wonder if, in the human race, there are varying
sizes of brains. I read once that, in the natural kingdom, there can be
different brain sizes within the same species. The example they put
forth was that of squirrels. I wonder if this is true for humans. If
so, Hugo Chavez is in the tiny human brain category.

In his latest jibe against the U.S. leader, the outspoken left-wing Venezuelan president urged Bush to use his planned visit to the Vatican on June 4 to announce the withdrawal of U.S. troops from Iraq. "Even though he's not a Catholic ... he should ask God's forgiveness at the Vatican ... go down on his knees in front of the Pope and ask for the forgiveness of the world, not just the Iraqi people," Chavez told a news conference Friday in Caracas.

{Insert hand going to forehead. SLAP!}

There are days when I

There are days when I wonder if, in the human race, there are varying
sizes of brains. I read once that, in the natural kingdom, there can be
different brain sizes within the same species. The example they put
forth was that of squirrels. I wonder if this is true for humans. If
so, Hugo Chavez is in the tiny human brain category.

In his latest jibe against the U.S. leader, the outspoken left-wing Venezuelan president urged Bush to use his planned visit to the Vatican on June 4 to announce the withdrawal of U.S. troops from Iraq. "Even though he's not a Catholic ... he should ask God's forgiveness at the Vatican ... go down on his knees in front of the Pope and ask for the forgiveness of the world, not just the Iraqi people," Chavez told a news conference Friday in Caracas.

{Insert hand going to forehead. SLAP!}

Don't you just love it

Don't you just love it when you turn on your computer in the morning
and it decides to tell you that it can't open your settings because there's some corrupted memory file and it would prefer to open up an entirely new user in XP?

You just love it when that happens, right? To use Caribou speak: it's not a problem, it's a challenge!
Screw that. My former employers were always a little too chipper.
The husband is being the diligent master of all things computer-y right
now and is trying to reconstruct Wee Bastard to where it was last
night. He says he's about 95% there, but some of my stuff has to go.
That's fine---he's picking and choosing stuff that I haven't used in a
while---like the BMW Film Player I had to download when I wanted to
watch all those "Driver" films. After all, one of them was
Frankenheimer's last piece of work. That was important in more ways
than just the obvious time killing ones. But it has to go. Sigh. That's
fine. I'll live without it, I'm sure.
This happens at least once a year. Wee Bastard, a Compaq Armada laptop,
is a great computer most of the time---ever since we put XP on it. It
hasn't really deserved its name since 2001, but before that...well, it
wasn't pleasant. You see, Wee Bastard is one of those laptops the
husband kept because the company he was consulting for had decided not
to pay him. It was originally purchased in Kuwait City. It came with an
Arabic/English keyboard and a bastardized Arabic Enabled version of
Windows 98, which sucked bullets. I'd be working in Word, typing away,
and all of a sudden, I'd look up and there would be a whole page full
of Arabic characters. This of course, says nothing about how freaking
unstable the thing was...it was constantly crashing, and more so than a
regular version of 98. So, really, I've been fighting my own war with
the Arabs for the past couple of years, only they've gotten to me in
sneaky ways.
Ah, the husband tells me that I need to vamoose from his
computer---Gandalf---and go back to my own. Sigh. Thank goodness. It's
up, but we have to do maintenence this weekend. Relief. I was really
afraid there. When your computer decides it would really rather don a
Che T-shirt and become a full fledged member of the Rebellion, thank
you ever so much---you begin to worry.

Don't you just love it

Don't you just love it when you turn on your computer in the morning
and it decides to tell you that it can't open your settings because there's some corrupted memory file and it would prefer to open up an entirely new user in XP?

You just love it when that happens, right? To use Caribou speak: it's not a problem, it's a challenge!
Screw that. My former employers were always a little too chipper.
The husband is being the diligent master of all things computer-y right
now and is trying to reconstruct Wee Bastard to where it was last
night. He says he's about 95% there, but some of my stuff has to go.
That's fine---he's picking and choosing stuff that I haven't used in a
while---like the BMW Film Player I had to download when I wanted to
watch all those "Driver" films. After all, one of them was
Frankenheimer's last piece of work. That was important in more ways
than just the obvious time killing ones. But it has to go. Sigh. That's
fine. I'll live without it, I'm sure.
This happens at least once a year. Wee Bastard, a Compaq Armada laptop,
is a great computer most of the time---ever since we put XP on it. It
hasn't really deserved its name since 2001, but before that...well, it
wasn't pleasant. You see, Wee Bastard is one of those laptops the
husband kept because the company he was consulting for had decided not
to pay him. It was originally purchased in Kuwait City. It came with an
Arabic/English keyboard and a bastardized Arabic Enabled version of
Windows 98, which sucked bullets. I'd be working in Word, typing away,
and all of a sudden, I'd look up and there would be a whole page full
of Arabic characters. This of course, says nothing about how freaking
unstable the thing was...it was constantly crashing, and more so than a
regular version of 98. So, really, I've been fighting my own war with
the Arabs for the past couple of years, only they've gotten to me in
sneaky ways.
Ah, the husband tells me that I need to vamoose from his
computer---Gandalf---and go back to my own. Sigh. Thank goodness. It's
up, but we have to do maintenence this weekend. Relief. I was really
afraid there. When your computer decides it would really rather don a
Che T-shirt and become a full fledged member of the Rebellion, thank
you ever so much---you begin to worry.

--- More Silly Germans! I

--- More Silly Germans!

I forsee a whole new set of hook-up questions being asked as a result of this survey.

--- More Silly Germans! I

--- More Silly Germans!

I forsee a whole new set of hook-up questions being asked as a result of this survey.

--- Silly Germans! BERLIN (Reuters)

--- Silly Germans!

BERLIN (Reuters) - The German government's plans to levy fines on companies that fail to hire trainees will also be
applied to legal German brothels, Der Spiegel news magazine reported Sunday.

Brothels failing to employ a certain number of apprentices will not be exempted from the financial penalties that
Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder's government wants to introduce on all companies later this year, the magazine said.

The legislation drafted by the Social Democrats and their Greens coalition partners will fine companies that do not have
one apprentice for every 15 workers.

I'm not touching this one with a ten foot pole.

--- Silly Germans! BERLIN (Reuters)

--- Silly Germans!

BERLIN (Reuters) - The German government's plans to levy fines on companies that fail to hire trainees will also be
applied to legal German brothels, Der Spiegel news magazine reported Sunday.

Brothels failing to employ a certain number of apprentices will not be exempted from the financial penalties that
Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder's government wants to introduce on all companies later this year, the magazine said.

The legislation drafted by the Social Democrats and their Greens coalition partners will fine companies that do not have
one apprentice for every 15 workers.

I'm not touching this one with a ten foot pole.

--- Ah, Hippie Hollow. My

--- Ah, Hippie Hollow.
My sister and brother and their respective families live on Lake
Travis, so I'm pretty familiar with the area they're talking about.
I've been visiting Travis since I was ten years old and ultimately it's
where I would like to spend the rest of my days. It's gorgeous there.
(If you'd like to see what some of the area looks like, click here
and take a peek around. That's my sister and brother in law's company.)
Travis is a huge man made lake---it was created by damming off the
eastern branch of the Colorado river--- but because of the hilly
terrain in the area, there isn't a huge amount of beach area. In most
spots on Travis, you jump in and the bottom is sixty-five feet straight
down. You never touch. The terrain creates negative odds on there being
beaches at all, but Hippie Hollow is one of the few. So, not only is it
noteworthy to float by a beach on Travis, the fact one of the few is a
nudist beach makes it all the more interesting.
We've boated by Hippie Hollow, and I can testify that it is quite the
scene. Perhaps my nephew put it best when, at age five, he screamed, "MOMMY! MOMMY! Why is that man standing over there with his wiener hanging out?"

From the mouths of babes.

--- Ah, Hippie Hollow. My

--- Ah, Hippie Hollow.
My sister and brother and their respective families live on Lake
Travis, so I'm pretty familiar with the area they're talking about.
I've been visiting Travis since I was ten years old and ultimately it's
where I would like to spend the rest of my days. It's gorgeous there.
(If you'd like to see what some of the area looks like, click here
and take a peek around. That's my sister and brother in law's company.)
Travis is a huge man made lake---it was created by damming off the
eastern branch of the Colorado river--- but because of the hilly
terrain in the area, there isn't a huge amount of beach area. In most
spots on Travis, you jump in and the bottom is sixty-five feet straight
down. You never touch. The terrain creates negative odds on there being
beaches at all, but Hippie Hollow is one of the few. So, not only is it
noteworthy to float by a beach on Travis, the fact one of the few is a
nudist beach makes it all the more interesting.
We've boated by Hippie Hollow, and I can testify that it is quite the
scene. Perhaps my nephew put it best when, at age five, he screamed, "MOMMY! MOMMY! Why is that man standing over there with his wiener hanging out?"

From the mouths of babes.

--- And here I thought

--- And here I thought Libya was bad.

UNITED NATIONS (Reuters) - Sudan won an uncontested election on
Tuesday to the United Nations' main human rights watchdog, prompting
the United States to walk out because of alleged ethnic cleansing in
the country's Darfur region. Sudan's delegate immediately shot back
that the U.S. delegation was "shedding crocodile tears" and turning a
blind eye to atrocities committed by U.S. soldiers in Iraq against
civilians as well as against prisoners.

The UN has no credibilty left. None. Whatsoever.

--- And here I thought

--- And here I thought Libya was bad.

UNITED NATIONS (Reuters) - Sudan won an uncontested election on
Tuesday to the United Nations' main human rights watchdog, prompting
the United States to walk out because of alleged ethnic cleansing in
the country's Darfur region. Sudan's delegate immediately shot back
that the U.S. delegation was "shedding crocodile tears" and turning a
blind eye to atrocities committed by U.S. soldiers in Iraq against
civilians as well as against prisoners.

The UN has no credibilty left. None. Whatsoever.

Blogger needs to improve their

Blogger needs to improve their communication skills. Which is ironic,
don't you think, for a company that specializes in blogs?

Sometime yesterday afternoon, Blogger switched all the domain names on what seems to be all
the Blogger Blogs. If you found your way here via Google, take a peek
up at the domain name and realize that they've ditched the 'www'
routing. In the past you could either put in the 'www' or you could
leave it out---but either way you'd get here. Blogger apparently is
pushing for uniformity. You'll need to redo your bookmarks for this
site and any other Blogger Blogs you visit.
So, this is fine and dandy and I don't really have any issues with it. I
JUST WOULD HAVE APPRECIATED BEING TOLD ABOUT IT BEFORE THEY DID IT SO I
COULD HAVE WARNED MY READERS AND SIMULTANEOUSLY NOT WASTED HOURS LAST
NIGHT WONDERING WHAT THE HELL WAS GOING ON BECAUSE THE HUSBAND COULD
SEE THE SITE BUT I COULDN'T.

I don't think a little post on the log-in page would have been too much to ask, do you?

Update: It does make me feel strangely normal, though. Blogger
never tells you about this stuff until it's over with, if they bother
telling you about it at all. It's somewhat comforting in a weird sort
of way. Update 2: An observant commentator over at INDC Journal notes that it's BLOGSPOT
blogs that are affected and not all Blogger Blogs. I'd completely
forgotten that you could pay Blogger to host your site---hence those
people aren't affected. Forgive me for spreading lies, lies and more
damn lies!

Blogger needs to improve their

Blogger needs to improve their communication skills. Which is ironic,
don't you think, for a company that specializes in blogs?

Sometime yesterday afternoon, Blogger switched all the domain names on what seems to be all
the Blogger Blogs. If you found your way here via Google, take a peek
up at the domain name and realize that they've ditched the 'www'
routing. In the past you could either put in the 'www' or you could
leave it out---but either way you'd get here. Blogger apparently is
pushing for uniformity. You'll need to redo your bookmarks for this
site and any other Blogger Blogs you visit.
So, this is fine and dandy and I don't really have any issues with it. I
JUST WOULD HAVE APPRECIATED BEING TOLD ABOUT IT BEFORE THEY DID IT SO I
COULD HAVE WARNED MY READERS AND SIMULTANEOUSLY NOT WASTED HOURS LAST
NIGHT WONDERING WHAT THE HELL WAS GOING ON BECAUSE THE HUSBAND COULD
SEE THE SITE BUT I COULDN'T.

I don't think a little post on the log-in page would have been too much to ask, do you?

Update: It does make me feel strangely normal, though. Blogger
never tells you about this stuff until it's over with, if they bother
telling you about it at all. It's somewhat comforting in a weird sort
of way. Update 2: An observant commentator over at INDC Journal notes that it's BLOGSPOT
blogs that are affected and not all Blogger Blogs. I'd completely
forgotten that you could pay Blogger to host your site---hence those
people aren't affected. Forgive me for spreading lies, lies and more
damn lies!

Bunnysutra. Tourists visiting New York's

Bunnysutra.

Tourists visiting New York's Times Square are blushing over a new Swatch watch billboard that features six pairs of rabbits in various sexual positions, according to a Local 6 News report. The billboard kicks off the new "Bunnysutra" Swatch watch line that features the company's "touch" technology. A Swatch news release reportedly says when touched, the clock hands land on "happy bunny positions."

Bunnysutra. Tourists visiting New York's

Bunnysutra.

Tourists visiting New York's Times Square are blushing over a new Swatch watch billboard that features six pairs of rabbits in various sexual positions, according to a Local 6 News report. The billboard kicks off the new "Bunnysutra" Swatch watch line that features the company's "touch" technology. A Swatch news release reportedly says when touched, the clock hands land on "happy bunny positions."

In fact, it's freakishly large.

In fact, it's freakishly large.

protein wisdom: "Yes, working people left behind, blah blah blah, gotcha. Seriously, though. It's like your neck gave birth to a giant ham, if you don't mind my saying. I expect you can't wear any kind of pullover sweaters, am I right? -- it's all V-necks for you...?"

There's mention of Godzilla as well.

In fact, it's freakishly large.

In fact, it's freakishly large.

protein wisdom: "Yes, working people left behind, blah blah blah, gotcha. Seriously, though. It's like your neck gave birth to a giant ham, if you don't mind my saying. I expect you can't wear any kind of pullover sweaters, am I right? -- it's all V-necks for you...?"

There's mention of Godzilla as well.

Realism: Its Limitation and Contributions

Realism: Its Limitation and Contributions
{…}Fundamental to the critique of realist theory was the questioning,
rejection or modification of the traditional paradigm of international
relations on which realism in its classical formulation was based.
Politics, defined as a struggle of power in a state-centric system
based on actors whose foreign polemics could be clearly separated from
domestic politics, had given way by the 1960s to a newer and more
complex paradigm, or model, of the international system. In place of
the Eurocentric realist paradigm came and international system global
in scope and containing an unprecedented number of states and nonstate
actors. To the extent that domestic politics shapes foreign policy, the
clearly defined separation assumed in realist theory became at least
blurred and at most a gross distortion of the complex process by which
state action takes place. According to John A. Vasquez, “realpolitik
explanations do not provide a theory of world politics, but merely an
image that decision makers can have of the world. Power politics is not
so much an explanation as a description of one type of behavior found
in the global political system. If this is correct, then power politics
behavior itself must be explained; it does not explain.” Reflecting
on other research of the 1970s as well as his own effort to test
propositions derived from realist theory, Vasquez concluded that those
that are “based on realist assumption do not do as well as those that
reject realist assumptions.”
For several reasons, the “national interest” concept has been the
object of criticism. According to one critique, “That national
interest is a necessary criterion of policy is obvious and
unilluminating. No statesman, no publicist, no scholar would seriously
argue that foreign policy ought to be conducted in opposition to, or
disregard of, the national interest.” Moreover, it is difficult to
give operational meaning to the concept of national interest. Statesmen
are constrained, or given freedom, by many forces in interpreting the
national interest. They are often the captive of their predecessors’
policies. They interpret the national interest as a result of their
cultural training, values, and the data made available to them as
decision-makers. According to Stanley Hoffman, “The conception of an
objective and easily recognizable national interest, the reliable guide
and criterion of national policy, is one which makes sense only in a
stable period in which the participants play for limited ends, with
limited means, and without domestic kibitzers to disrupt the players’
moves. In a period when the survival of states is at stake to a far
greater extent than in former times, the most divergent course of
action can be recommended as valid choices for survival. Ordinarily
less compelling objectives, such as prestige, or an increment of power
in a limited area, or the protection of private citizens abroad, all
become tied up with the issues of survival and the most frequent
argument against even attempting to redefine the hierarchy of national
objectives so as to separate at least some of them from survival is the
familiar fear of a “chain of events” or a “row of dominoes.”
Therefore, in the absence of empirically based studies, it is difficult
to determine what “national interest” means at any specific time.
According to Michael Joseph Smith, realists, having adopted Weber’s
ethic of responsibility, have not presented a competent set of criteria
for judging responsibility. Although, and perhaps because, they
minimize the relevance of ethics to international relations, they
appear no to recognize that “their judgment of morality and their
definition of the national interest rested on their own hierarchy of
values.” Among the focal points of neorealist analysis is an effort
to reformulate and refine the national interest concept with a
perceived calculus of benefits and losses in accordance with
alternative posited goals for the state. Specifically, the regime
concept includes an attempt to adapt national interest to a theoretical
framework related to state motivation in the formation of what are
defined as international regimes for collaboration or cooperation.
Realist writers, it has been noted, have been criticized for their
efforts to draw from the Eurocentric system of the past a series of
political concepts for the analysis of a vastly different contemporary
global international system. The pursuit of limited national
objectives, the separation of foreign policy from domestic politics,
the conduct of secret diplomacy, the use of balance of power as a
technique for the management of power, and the pleas for nations to
place reduced emphasis on ideology as a conditioner of international
conduct have little relevance to the international system today. By
urging that nations return to the practices of an earlier period, some
realist writers overestimate the extent to which such change in the
present international system is possible. If nations obey laws of
nature, which the realist purports to have discovered, why is it
necessary to urge them as realists do, to return to practices based on
such laws? Although history provides many examples of international
behavior that substantiate classical realist theory, historical data
offer deviant cases. In calling upon statesmen to alter their behavior,
the realist becomes normative in theoretical orientation and fails to
provide an adequate explanation as to why political leaders sometimes
do not adhere to realist tenets in foreign policy.
In emphasizing power as the principal motivation for political
behavior, realists have made themselves the object of criticism.
Critics have suggested that realist writers, for the most part, have
not clearly conceptualized power. {…}
Neorealism and, specifically, structural realism have encountered
several criticisms, including an alleged disregard for history as a
process that is continually undergoing redefinition, in which
individuals contribute to the molding of each successive era. In this
respect, the neorealist is considered to have departed from classical
realism, which held that the statesman was shaped by but also had an
important influence on history. Far from being captives of a particular
system---itself a reification---the individual person holds the
potential to be the master of structures, not simply the object.
Moreover, neorealism is faulted for having presumably reduced politics
to those dimensions that are conducive to interpretation by reference
to rational behavior under various structural constraints. Because of
its own focus on structure, neorealism is said to have ignored the
social basis and social limits of power. Power cannot be reduced to
capabilities; instead power consists also of psychological factors such
as public morale and political leadership, as well as situational
factors and the extent to which power is exercised within a consensual,
contrasted with a conflictual, framework. The “state as actor”
world of neorealism is faulted for having imputed to the state the role
of unitary actor whose behavior is shaped by the structure of the
international system. Neorealism, it is suggested, was statist before
it was structuralist. In response, neorealists deny that realism is, in
fact, structural determinism. Although structural elements exert a
powerful constraining influence on political behavior, the neorealist
does not consider all of the human political conduct to be determined
by the structure within which the polity is organized nor does the
neorealist accept the criticism that the “state as actor” world
represents a negation of the role of those individuals or groups who
act as the actual decision makers. {…}
Contending Theories of International Relations. James Dougherty and Robert Pfaltzgraff, Jr.

Realism: Its Limitation and Contributions

Realism: Its Limitation and Contributions
{…}Fundamental to the critique of realist theory was the questioning,
rejection or modification of the traditional paradigm of international
relations on which realism in its classical formulation was based.
Politics, defined as a struggle of power in a state-centric system
based on actors whose foreign polemics could be clearly separated from
domestic politics, had given way by the 1960s to a newer and more
complex paradigm, or model, of the international system. In place of
the Eurocentric realist paradigm came and international system global
in scope and containing an unprecedented number of states and nonstate
actors. To the extent that domestic politics shapes foreign policy, the
clearly defined separation assumed in realist theory became at least
blurred and at most a gross distortion of the complex process by which
state action takes place. According to John A. Vasquez, “realpolitik
explanations do not provide a theory of world politics, but merely an
image that decision makers can have of the world. Power politics is not
so much an explanation as a description of one type of behavior found
in the global political system. If this is correct, then power politics
behavior itself must be explained; it does not explain.” Reflecting
on other research of the 1970s as well as his own effort to test
propositions derived from realist theory, Vasquez concluded that those
that are “based on realist assumption do not do as well as those that
reject realist assumptions.”
For several reasons, the “national interest” concept has been the
object of criticism. According to one critique, “That national
interest is a necessary criterion of policy is obvious and
unilluminating. No statesman, no publicist, no scholar would seriously
argue that foreign policy ought to be conducted in opposition to, or
disregard of, the national interest.” Moreover, it is difficult to
give operational meaning to the concept of national interest. Statesmen
are constrained, or given freedom, by many forces in interpreting the
national interest. They are often the captive of their predecessors’
policies. They interpret the national interest as a result of their
cultural training, values, and the data made available to them as
decision-makers. According to Stanley Hoffman, “The conception of an
objective and easily recognizable national interest, the reliable guide
and criterion of national policy, is one which makes sense only in a
stable period in which the participants play for limited ends, with
limited means, and without domestic kibitzers to disrupt the players’
moves. In a period when the survival of states is at stake to a far
greater extent than in former times, the most divergent course of
action can be recommended as valid choices for survival. Ordinarily
less compelling objectives, such as prestige, or an increment of power
in a limited area, or the protection of private citizens abroad, all
become tied up with the issues of survival and the most frequent
argument against even attempting to redefine the hierarchy of national
objectives so as to separate at least some of them from survival is the
familiar fear of a “chain of events” or a “row of dominoes.”
Therefore, in the absence of empirically based studies, it is difficult
to determine what “national interest” means at any specific time.
According to Michael Joseph Smith, realists, having adopted Weber’s
ethic of responsibility, have not presented a competent set of criteria
for judging responsibility. Although, and perhaps because, they
minimize the relevance of ethics to international relations, they
appear no to recognize that “their judgment of morality and their
definition of the national interest rested on their own hierarchy of
values.” Among the focal points of neorealist analysis is an effort
to reformulate and refine the national interest concept with a
perceived calculus of benefits and losses in accordance with
alternative posited goals for the state. Specifically, the regime
concept includes an attempt to adapt national interest to a theoretical
framework related to state motivation in the formation of what are
defined as international regimes for collaboration or cooperation.
Realist writers, it has been noted, have been criticized for their
efforts to draw from the Eurocentric system of the past a series of
political concepts for the analysis of a vastly different contemporary
global international system. The pursuit of limited national
objectives, the separation of foreign policy from domestic politics,
the conduct of secret diplomacy, the use of balance of power as a
technique for the management of power, and the pleas for nations to
place reduced emphasis on ideology as a conditioner of international
conduct have little relevance to the international system today. By
urging that nations return to the practices of an earlier period, some
realist writers overestimate the extent to which such change in the
present international system is possible. If nations obey laws of
nature, which the realist purports to have discovered, why is it
necessary to urge them as realists do, to return to practices based on
such laws? Although history provides many examples of international
behavior that substantiate classical realist theory, historical data
offer deviant cases. In calling upon statesmen to alter their behavior,
the realist becomes normative in theoretical orientation and fails to
provide an adequate explanation as to why political leaders sometimes
do not adhere to realist tenets in foreign policy.
In emphasizing power as the principal motivation for political
behavior, realists have made themselves the object of criticism.
Critics have suggested that realist writers, for the most part, have
not clearly conceptualized power. {…}
Neorealism and, specifically, structural realism have encountered
several criticisms, including an alleged disregard for history as a
process that is continually undergoing redefinition, in which
individuals contribute to the molding of each successive era. In this
respect, the neorealist is considered to have departed from classical
realism, which held that the statesman was shaped by but also had an
important influence on history. Far from being captives of a particular
system---itself a reification---the individual person holds the
potential to be the master of structures, not simply the object.
Moreover, neorealism is faulted for having presumably reduced politics
to those dimensions that are conducive to interpretation by reference
to rational behavior under various structural constraints. Because of
its own focus on structure, neorealism is said to have ignored the
social basis and social limits of power. Power cannot be reduced to
capabilities; instead power consists also of psychological factors such
as public morale and political leadership, as well as situational
factors and the extent to which power is exercised within a consensual,
contrasted with a conflictual, framework. The “state as actor”
world of neorealism is faulted for having imputed to the state the role
of unitary actor whose behavior is shaped by the structure of the
international system. Neorealism, it is suggested, was statist before
it was structuralist. In response, neorealists deny that realism is, in
fact, structural determinism. Although structural elements exert a
powerful constraining influence on political behavior, the neorealist
does not consider all of the human political conduct to be determined
by the structure within which the polity is organized nor does the
neorealist accept the criticism that the “state as actor” world
represents a negation of the role of those individuals or groups who
act as the actual decision makers. {…}
Contending Theories of International Relations. James Dougherty and Robert Pfaltzgraff, Jr.

Krauthammer gets it right. In

Krauthammer gets it right.

In any case, the whole Rumsfeld debate is a sideshow. For partisans it is a convenient way to get at the president. And for those who have no partisan agenda but are shocked by the Abu Ghraib pictures, it is a way to try to do something, anything, to deal with the moral panic that has set in about the whole Iraq enterprise. This panic is everywhere and now includes many who have been longtime supporters of the war. The panic is unseemly. The pictures are shocking and the practices appalling. But how do the actions of a few depraved soldiers among 135,000 negate the moral purpose of the entire enterprise -- which has not only liberated 25 million people from 25 years of genocidal dictatorship but has included a nationwide reconstruction punctuated by hundreds, thousands, of individual acts of beneficence and kindness by American soldiers? We are obsessing about the wrong question. It is not: Is our purpose in Iraq morally sound? Of course it is. The question today, as from the beginning, remains: Is that purpose achievable?

Go read the whole thing.

Krauthammer gets it right. In

Krauthammer gets it right.

In any case, the whole Rumsfeld debate is a sideshow. For partisans it is a convenient way to get at the president. And for those who have no partisan agenda but are shocked by the Abu Ghraib pictures, it is a way to try to do something, anything, to deal with the moral panic that has set in about the whole Iraq enterprise. This panic is everywhere and now includes many who have been longtime supporters of the war. The panic is unseemly. The pictures are shocking and the practices appalling. But how do the actions of a few depraved soldiers among 135,000 negate the moral purpose of the entire enterprise -- which has not only liberated 25 million people from 25 years of genocidal dictatorship but has included a nationwide reconstruction punctuated by hundreds, thousands, of individual acts of beneficence and kindness by American soldiers? We are obsessing about the wrong question. It is not: Is our purpose in Iraq morally sound? Of course it is. The question today, as from the beginning, remains: Is that purpose achievable?

Go read the whole thing.

At least that's what E.J.

At least that's what E.J. Dionne seems to think is preventing us from learning the hard lessons of that day:

All of which makes you want to ask Giuliani why he felt it necessary to rebuke the commission investigating Sept. 11 for pointing out important truths about what went wrong that day. In the matter-of-fact way of its valuable staff reports, the commission pointed to the turf battles and communication problems among New York City's uniformed services that may have cost lives. Rudy, no one is asking you to be perfect. No one, and I mean no one, is taking anything away from the bravery of those who selflessly gave their all that day. But the Sept. 11 commission has the responsibility for making us more ready if a dreadful event of this sort happens again. They can't overlook what went wrong. Alas, most things are personal for Rudy. "Our enemy is not each other," he told the commission on Wednesday, "but terrorists who attacked us, murdered our loved ones and continue to offer a threat to our security." Of course that's right. But no one says you're the enemy, Rudy. Yet none of us, certainly not you, would want systems kept in place that threaten the very men and women whose bravery protects us. Most of the commission members seemed thoroughly intimidated by Giuliani and expressed their devotion. It fell to Bob Kerrey, the Vietnam veteran who does not intimidate easily, to state an important truth: "I don't believe it's an either/or choice of being angry at those who perpetrated this crime and feeling anger towards those with responsibility." Kerrey went on to praise Giuliani too, but his point goes to the heart of the commission's challenge and manDATE: 05/01/2004 to overcome the mythologizing of Sept. 11 and face what happened.

Note that the fire and police chiefs of NYC had testified before the 9/11 Commission the day before and had been raked over the coals. Note that Condoleeza Rice was bullied into giving public testimony even when she'd already met with the commission for four hours in private. Note that Richard Clarke, idiot extraordinaire, was lauded by the 9/11 Commission for essentially plugging a book and airing grudges he apparently still held because he'd been cut out of the loop. Given these examples of how non-partisan and how dedicated these commissioners are to finding the truth of what happened on 9/11, who on earth would expect Rudy Guiliani to go into that hearing room and expect underhanded softballs to be thrown at him? Rudy was ready, and now he's being berated for assuming a defensive posture. E.J. apparently is nuts because he tells Rudy that "no one is asking you to be perfect." Yes, they are. That's precisely what they're asking. Everyone associated with these hearings, whether it be the Jersey Girl widows the press is so fond of to the commissioners themselves, expected everyone to be perfect that day---because then no one would have died, would they? If the 9/11 Commission wasn't playing partisan games with who they decide to be harsh with and who they're not, it would be easy and right to say that they're just trying to get to the bottom of things. The truth, however, is that the 9/11 Commission is not trying to get to the bottom of things. I'm sure a few of them have deluded themselves into believing that mission statement, but in actuality you have a bunch of has-beens up on a stage, with national media coverage and they're surely enjoying the attention they're receiving. So they puff themselves up; they make themselves to be more important than they are; they lob softballs at the people they like and then they throw Roger Clemens-style fastballs at the ones they don't. I would make the argument that it's not the public, the White House or Rudy Guiliani who is mythologizing 9/11. I believe it's people like E.J. who seem to think that this commission will solve problems and will help us to suss out how we could have been better prepared and how our response could have been better. They're not going to solve a damn thing. We won't learn anything we didn't already know about 9/11. We just won't. Why? Because we don't live in a world where you can prepare and be ready for the worst case scenario every day of our lives, which is what they expect. It's just not feasible. We live in a world where commissions are formed and don't do a damn thing in actuality. But most importantly, we live in a world where shit happens. It does. While I am more sorry than you can ever imagine for this next statement, the truth is that shit happened on 9/11. There was nothing we could do to prevent this; there was nothing we could to do to stave it off. Horrible things happened on that day. But we simply cannot form a commission everytime something bad and completely unexpected happens to prevent it from happening again. People did their best on 9/11. Firemen, police officers, the mayor---everyone did their best. Yet, because, in the eyes of some, their best wasn't good enough, despite hurdles being placed in their path that they had no way of clearing, there is apparently room for improvement; there's truth to be sought; there's grandstanding to be done. My question is, though, how can the truth be found if the people asking the questions clearly aren't interested in the answers?

At least that's what E.J.

At least that's what E.J. Dionne seems to think is preventing us from learning the hard lessons of that day:

All of which makes you want to ask Giuliani why he felt it necessary to rebuke the commission investigating Sept. 11 for pointing out important truths about what went wrong that day. In the matter-of-fact way of its valuable staff reports, the commission pointed to the turf battles and communication problems among New York City's uniformed services that may have cost lives. Rudy, no one is asking you to be perfect. No one, and I mean no one, is taking anything away from the bravery of those who selflessly gave their all that day. But the Sept. 11 commission has the responsibility for making us more ready if a dreadful event of this sort happens again. They can't overlook what went wrong. Alas, most things are personal for Rudy. "Our enemy is not each other," he told the commission on Wednesday, "but terrorists who attacked us, murdered our loved ones and continue to offer a threat to our security." Of course that's right. But no one says you're the enemy, Rudy. Yet none of us, certainly not you, would want systems kept in place that threaten the very men and women whose bravery protects us. Most of the commission members seemed thoroughly intimidated by Giuliani and expressed their devotion. It fell to Bob Kerrey, the Vietnam veteran who does not intimidate easily, to state an important truth: "I don't believe it's an either/or choice of being angry at those who perpetrated this crime and feeling anger towards those with responsibility." Kerrey went on to praise Giuliani too, but his point goes to the heart of the commission's challenge and manDATE: 05/01/2004 to overcome the mythologizing of Sept. 11 and face what happened.

Note that the fire and police chiefs of NYC had testified before the 9/11 Commission the day before and had been raked over the coals. Note that Condoleeza Rice was bullied into giving public testimony even when she'd already met with the commission for four hours in private. Note that Richard Clarke, idiot extraordinaire, was lauded by the 9/11 Commission for essentially plugging a book and airing grudges he apparently still held because he'd been cut out of the loop. Given these examples of how non-partisan and how dedicated these commissioners are to finding the truth of what happened on 9/11, who on earth would expect Rudy Guiliani to go into that hearing room and expect underhanded softballs to be thrown at him? Rudy was ready, and now he's being berated for assuming a defensive posture. E.J. apparently is nuts because he tells Rudy that "no one is asking you to be perfect." Yes, they are. That's precisely what they're asking. Everyone associated with these hearings, whether it be the Jersey Girl widows the press is so fond of to the commissioners themselves, expected everyone to be perfect that day---because then no one would have died, would they? If the 9/11 Commission wasn't playing partisan games with who they decide to be harsh with and who they're not, it would be easy and right to say that they're just trying to get to the bottom of things. The truth, however, is that the 9/11 Commission is not trying to get to the bottom of things. I'm sure a few of them have deluded themselves into believing that mission statement, but in actuality you have a bunch of has-beens up on a stage, with national media coverage and they're surely enjoying the attention they're receiving. So they puff themselves up; they make themselves to be more important than they are; they lob softballs at the people they like and then they throw Roger Clemens-style fastballs at the ones they don't. I would make the argument that it's not the public, the White House or Rudy Guiliani who is mythologizing 9/11. I believe it's people like E.J. who seem to think that this commission will solve problems and will help us to suss out how we could have been better prepared and how our response could have been better. They're not going to solve a damn thing. We won't learn anything we didn't already know about 9/11. We just won't. Why? Because we don't live in a world where you can prepare and be ready for the worst case scenario every day of our lives, which is what they expect. It's just not feasible. We live in a world where commissions are formed and don't do a damn thing in actuality. But most importantly, we live in a world where shit happens. It does. While I am more sorry than you can ever imagine for this next statement, the truth is that shit happened on 9/11. There was nothing we could do to prevent this; there was nothing we could to do to stave it off. Horrible things happened on that day. But we simply cannot form a commission everytime something bad and completely unexpected happens to prevent it from happening again. People did their best on 9/11. Firemen, police officers, the mayor---everyone did their best. Yet, because, in the eyes of some, their best wasn't good enough, despite hurdles being placed in their path that they had no way of clearing, there is apparently room for improvement; there's truth to be sought; there's grandstanding to be done. My question is, though, how can the truth be found if the people asking the questions clearly aren't interested in the answers?

Henry A. Kissinger Another scholar

Henry A. Kissinger Another scholar who has drawn from history---in this case, diplomatic history---is Henry A. Kissinger. Kissinger’s theory of international relations is derived from his analysis of early nineteenth century Europe. In A World Restored, based on his doctoral dissertation, Kissinger wrote: “The success of physical science depends upon the selection of the “crucial” experiment; that of political science in the field of international affairs, on the selection of the “crucial” period. I have chosen for my topic, the period between 1812 and 1822, partly, I am frank to say, because its problems seem to me analogous to those of our day. But I do not insist on this analogy.” Kissinger’s fascination with this period lies in the insights that might be provided in that the exercise of power by statesmen such as Castlereagh and Metternich for the development of an international structure that contributed to peace in the century between the Congress of Vienna and the outbreak of WWI. Kissinger studied the nature and quality of political leadership, the impact of domestic political structures upon foreign policy, and the relationship between diplomacy and military policy in stable and revolutionary international systems. As Stephen R. Graubard has written: “Kissinger saw choice as fundamental to the whole political process. It was of greatest consequence to him that a given state opted for a specific policy for one reason rather than another: because its bureaucracy determined that here was only one safe course; because its leaders were anxious to test the adversary’s reactions; because domestic opinion demanded a specific policy; because the political leadership was confused and saw the necessity of creating the illusion that it as still capable of action.” Drawing heavily upon the 1815 to 1822 period, Kissinger postulates that peace is achieved not as an end in itself, but instead emerges as the result of a stable, contrasted with revolutionary, international system. Therefore Kissinger develops two models for the study of international politics: first, a stable system; and second, a revolutionary system. He contends that stability has resulted not “from a quest for peace but from a general accepted legitimacy.” By Kissinger’s definition, legitimacy means “no more than an international agreement about the nature of workable arrangements and about permissible aims and methods of foreign policy.” Legitimacy implies an acceptance of the framework of the international order by all the major powers. Agreement among major powers upon the framework of international order does not eliminate international conflicts, but it limits their scope. Conflict within the framework has been more limited than conflict about the framework. Diplomacy, which Kissinger defines as “the adjustment of differences through negotiation,” becomes possible only in the international systems where “legitimacy obtains.” In Kissinger’s model the primary objective of national actors is not to preserve the peace. In fact, “wherever peace---conceived as the avoidance of war---has been the primary objective of a power or a group of powers, the international system has been at the mercy of the most ruthless members of the international community.” In contrast, “whenever the international order has acknowledged that certain principles could not be compromised even for the sake of peace, stability based upon an equilibrium of forces was at least conceivable.” {…} In other writings Kissinger has applied concepts derived from his study of early nineteenth century European diplomatic history to the contemporary international system. The problems posed by the great destructive potential of nuclear weapons have been of great concern to him. As in the past, it is necessary for nations to develop limited means to achieve limited objectives. “An all or nothing military policy will…play into the hands of the Soviet strategy of ambiguity which seeks to upset the strategic balance by small degrees and which combines political, psychological and military pressures to induce the greatest degree of uncertainty and hesitation in the mind of the opponent.” If United States policy makers are to have a choice other than “the dread alternatives of surrender or suicide,” they must adopt concepts of limited war derived from the experience of nineteenth-century warfare. At that time the objective of warfare “was to create a calculus of risks according to which continued resistance would appear more costly than the peace sought to be imposed.” A strategy of limited warfar would provide the United States with the means to “establish a reasonable relationship between power and the willingness to use it, between the physical and psychological components of national policy.” Writing in the 1960’s, Kissinger contended that if the United States was to avoid the stark alternatives of suicide or surrender, it must have both large-scale conventional forces and tactical nuclear weapons. Kissinger established three requirements for limited war capabilities. 1.The limited war forces must be able to prevent the potential aggressor from creating a fait accompli. 2.They must be of a nature to convince the aggressor that their use, although invoking an increasing risk of all-out war, is not an inevitable prelude to it. 3.They must be coupled with a diplomacy which succeeds in conveying that all-out war is not the sole response to aggression and that there exists a willingness to negotiate a settlement short of unconditional surrender. If nations are to evolved a limited war strategy, they must develop an understanding of those interests that do not threaten national survival. Decision makers must possess the ability to restrain public opinion if disagreement arises as to whether national survival is at stake. Given a tacit understanding among nations about the nature of limited objectives, it is possible to fight both conventional conflicts and limited nuclear wars without escalation to total war. In the adjustment of differences between nations, Kissinger, like most other realists, assigns an important role to diplomacy. Historically, negotiation was aided by the military capabilities a nation could bring to bear if diplomacy failed. The vast increase in destructive capabilities has contributed to the perpetuation of disputes. “Our age faces the paradoxical problem that because the violence of war has grown all out of proportion to the objectives achieved, no issue has been resolved.” {…} Like Morganthau, Kissinger views with disfavor the injection of ideology into the international system. Ideology not only contributes to the development of unlimited national objectives, but it also eventually creates states whose goal is to overthrow the existing international system. In the absence of agreement among powers about the framework for the system---or its legitimacy---the conduct of diplomacy becomes difficult, even impossible. Hence the emphasis in the Nixon-Ford-Kissinger foreign policy upon creating stable structure for the international system: “All nations, adversaries and friends alike, must have a stake in preserving the international system. They must feel that their principles are being respected and their national interests secured. They must, in short, see positive incentive for keeping the peace, not just the dangers of breaking it.” {…} Realist writers, Kissinger included, have often sought to separate domestic politics from foreign policy. The conduct of an effective diplomacy is said to be difficult, if not impossible, if it must be subject, both in its conception and execution, to the continuous scrutiny of public opinion in a democracy such as in the United States. Flexibility, characteristic of Kissinger’s style of diplomacy, can be achieved in secrecy more easily than in a policy process open to the glare of publicity. But the relationship between domestic politics and foreign policy has been another dimension for realists, and especially for Kissinger. Unlike those who subscribe to the Wilsonian idealism or utopianism, Kissinger does not seek to transform domestic political structures in the belief that democratic political systems are a prerequisite for a peaceful world. “We shall never condone the suppression of fundamental liberties. We shall urge humane principles and use our influence to promote justice. But the issue comes down to the limits of such efforts. How hard can we press without provoking the Soviet leadership into returning to practices in its foreign policy that increase international tensions? ... For half a century we have objected to Communist efforts to alter the domestic structures of other countries. For a generation of Cold War we sought to ease the risks produced by competing ideologies. Are we not to come full circle and insist on domestic compatibility of progress?” Here Kissinger’s theory of international relations contrasts sharply with the view that a precondition for the development of a stable relationship with the Soviet Union is the transformation of its political system to conform with the principles of human rights and political freedom cherished in the West. At most, the easing of tensions between states is a complex process, dependent upon diplomacy, mutual interest, and “a strong military balance and flexible defense posture.” In short, foreign policy should be based on national power and interest, rather than abstract moralistic principles or political crusades. Nevertheless, in Kissinger’s theory of international relations the domestic political structure of states is a key element. His stable and revolutionary system models of international politics, noted earlier, are linked to the domestic political structures of states in either system. Stale international regimes are characterized by actors whose domestic political structures are based on compatible notions about means and goals of foreign policies. By definition, governments with stable domestic political structures do not resort to revolutionary or adventuristic foreign policies to restore or preserve domestic cohesion. In contrast, revolutionary systems contain actors whose domestic political structures contrast sharply with each other. {…}

Contending Theories of International Relations James E. Dougherty and Robert L. Pfaltzgraff, Jr

Henry A. Kissinger Another scholar

Henry A. Kissinger Another scholar who has drawn from history---in this case, diplomatic history---is Henry A. Kissinger. Kissinger’s theory of international relations is derived from his analysis of early nineteenth century Europe. In A World Restored, based on his doctoral dissertation, Kissinger wrote: “The success of physical science depends upon the selection of the “crucial” experiment; that of political science in the field of international affairs, on the selection of the “crucial” period. I have chosen for my topic, the period between 1812 and 1822, partly, I am frank to say, because its problems seem to me analogous to those of our day. But I do not insist on this analogy.” Kissinger’s fascination with this period lies in the insights that might be provided in that the exercise of power by statesmen such as Castlereagh and Metternich for the development of an international structure that contributed to peace in the century between the Congress of Vienna and the outbreak of WWI. Kissinger studied the nature and quality of political leadership, the impact of domestic political structures upon foreign policy, and the relationship between diplomacy and military policy in stable and revolutionary international systems. As Stephen R. Graubard has written: “Kissinger saw choice as fundamental to the whole political process. It was of greatest consequence to him that a given state opted for a specific policy for one reason rather than another: because its bureaucracy determined that here was only one safe course; because its leaders were anxious to test the adversary’s reactions; because domestic opinion demanded a specific policy; because the political leadership was confused and saw the necessity of creating the illusion that it as still capable of action.” Drawing heavily upon the 1815 to 1822 period, Kissinger postulates that peace is achieved not as an end in itself, but instead emerges as the result of a stable, contrasted with revolutionary, international system. Therefore Kissinger develops two models for the study of international politics: first, a stable system; and second, a revolutionary system. He contends that stability has resulted not “from a quest for peace but from a general accepted legitimacy.” By Kissinger’s definition, legitimacy means “no more than an international agreement about the nature of workable arrangements and about permissible aims and methods of foreign policy.” Legitimacy implies an acceptance of the framework of the international order by all the major powers. Agreement among major powers upon the framework of international order does not eliminate international conflicts, but it limits their scope. Conflict within the framework has been more limited than conflict about the framework. Diplomacy, which Kissinger defines as “the adjustment of differences through negotiation,” becomes possible only in the international systems where “legitimacy obtains.” In Kissinger’s model the primary objective of national actors is not to preserve the peace. In fact, “wherever peace---conceived as the avoidance of war---has been the primary objective of a power or a group of powers, the international system has been at the mercy of the most ruthless members of the international community.” In contrast, “whenever the international order has acknowledged that certain principles could not be compromised even for the sake of peace, stability based upon an equilibrium of forces was at least conceivable.” {…} In other writings Kissinger has applied concepts derived from his study of early nineteenth century European diplomatic history to the contemporary international system. The problems posed by the great destructive potential of nuclear weapons have been of great concern to him. As in the past, it is necessary for nations to develop limited means to achieve limited objectives. “An all or nothing military policy will…play into the hands of the Soviet strategy of ambiguity which seeks to upset the strategic balance by small degrees and which combines political, psychological and military pressures to induce the greatest degree of uncertainty and hesitation in the mind of the opponent.” If United States policy makers are to have a choice other than “the dread alternatives of surrender or suicide,” they must adopt concepts of limited war derived from the experience of nineteenth-century warfare. At that time the objective of warfare “was to create a calculus of risks according to which continued resistance would appear more costly than the peace sought to be imposed.” A strategy of limited warfar would provide the United States with the means to “establish a reasonable relationship between power and the willingness to use it, between the physical and psychological components of national policy.” Writing in the 1960’s, Kissinger contended that if the United States was to avoid the stark alternatives of suicide or surrender, it must have both large-scale conventional forces and tactical nuclear weapons. Kissinger established three requirements for limited war capabilities. 1.The limited war forces must be able to prevent the potential aggressor from creating a fait accompli. 2.They must be of a nature to convince the aggressor that their use, although invoking an increasing risk of all-out war, is not an inevitable prelude to it. 3.They must be coupled with a diplomacy which succeeds in conveying that all-out war is not the sole response to aggression and that there exists a willingness to negotiate a settlement short of unconditional surrender. If nations are to evolved a limited war strategy, they must develop an understanding of those interests that do not threaten national survival. Decision makers must possess the ability to restrain public opinion if disagreement arises as to whether national survival is at stake. Given a tacit understanding among nations about the nature of limited objectives, it is possible to fight both conventional conflicts and limited nuclear wars without escalation to total war. In the adjustment of differences between nations, Kissinger, like most other realists, assigns an important role to diplomacy. Historically, negotiation was aided by the military capabilities a nation could bring to bear if diplomacy failed. The vast increase in destructive capabilities has contributed to the perpetuation of disputes. “Our age faces the paradoxical problem that because the violence of war has grown all out of proportion to the objectives achieved, no issue has been resolved.” {…} Like Morganthau, Kissinger views with disfavor the injection of ideology into the international system. Ideology not only contributes to the development of unlimited national objectives, but it also eventually creates states whose goal is to overthrow the existing international system. In the absence of agreement among powers about the framework for the system---or its legitimacy---the conduct of diplomacy becomes difficult, even impossible. Hence the emphasis in the Nixon-Ford-Kissinger foreign policy upon creating stable structure for the international system: “All nations, adversaries and friends alike, must have a stake in preserving the international system. They must feel that their principles are being respected and their national interests secured. They must, in short, see positive incentive for keeping the peace, not just the dangers of breaking it.” {…} Realist writers, Kissinger included, have often sought to separate domestic politics from foreign policy. The conduct of an effective diplomacy is said to be difficult, if not impossible, if it must be subject, both in its conception and execution, to the continuous scrutiny of public opinion in a democracy such as in the United States. Flexibility, characteristic of Kissinger’s style of diplomacy, can be achieved in secrecy more easily than in a policy process open to the glare of publicity. But the relationship between domestic politics and foreign policy has been another dimension for realists, and especially for Kissinger. Unlike those who subscribe to the Wilsonian idealism or utopianism, Kissinger does not seek to transform domestic political structures in the belief that democratic political systems are a prerequisite for a peaceful world. “We shall never condone the suppression of fundamental liberties. We shall urge humane principles and use our influence to promote justice. But the issue comes down to the limits of such efforts. How hard can we press without provoking the Soviet leadership into returning to practices in its foreign policy that increase international tensions? ... For half a century we have objected to Communist efforts to alter the domestic structures of other countries. For a generation of Cold War we sought to ease the risks produced by competing ideologies. Are we not to come full circle and insist on domestic compatibility of progress?” Here Kissinger’s theory of international relations contrasts sharply with the view that a precondition for the development of a stable relationship with the Soviet Union is the transformation of its political system to conform with the principles of human rights and political freedom cherished in the West. At most, the easing of tensions between states is a complex process, dependent upon diplomacy, mutual interest, and “a strong military balance and flexible defense posture.” In short, foreign policy should be based on national power and interest, rather than abstract moralistic principles or political crusades. Nevertheless, in Kissinger’s theory of international relations the domestic political structure of states is a key element. His stable and revolutionary system models of international politics, noted earlier, are linked to the domestic political structures of states in either system. Stale international regimes are characterized by actors whose domestic political structures are based on compatible notions about means and goals of foreign policies. By definition, governments with stable domestic political structures do not resort to revolutionary or adventuristic foreign policies to restore or preserve domestic cohesion. In contrast, revolutionary systems contain actors whose domestic political structures contrast sharply with each other. {…}

Contending Theories of International Relations James E. Dougherty and Robert L. Pfaltzgraff, Jr

--- Apparently kryshas are advertising

--- Apparently kryshas are advertising in Forbes

I was flipping through Forbes
when what to my wondering eyes should appear. This ad. Placed
prominently in a section on Russia and what a great country it is for
business!

Nice to see that they're getting all entreprenurial about the shakedowns, eh?

*I
should probably mention that this company could be completely
legitimate and I haven't done any googling to prove otherwise, but what
the hell, right? It's one in the morning, I should be in bed, but
instead of sleeping I'd rather post my unfounded assumptions because
I'm bored.

--- Apparently kryshas are advertising

--- Apparently kryshas are advertising in Forbes

I was flipping through Forbes
when what to my wondering eyes should appear. This ad. Placed
prominently in a section on Russia and what a great country it is for
business!

Nice to see that they're getting all entreprenurial about the shakedowns, eh?

*I
should probably mention that this company could be completely
legitimate and I haven't done any googling to prove otherwise, but what
the hell, right? It's one in the morning, I should be in bed, but
instead of sleeping I'd rather post my unfounded assumptions because
I'm bored.

Well, well, well. It appears

Well, well, well.

It appears hell has officially frozen over.

NAIVASHA, Kenya - Moving to end a 21-year civil war, Sudan's government and rebels agreed on issues Tuesday that had prevented a final peace deal, officials said. The parties still have to agree on the details of a comprehensive cease-fire before the war — which has led to the deaths of more than two million people — could be declared over. Then it could take months to determine whether the diplomatic solution will translate to peace on the ground.

It's about time. Still, I'm not holding my breath. Until there's a solid cease fire in place with each side having a reason to keep the peace, the war will rage on. Both sides are battle hardened. Peace will not come easily. Hey, Kofi---how about some UN peacekeepers for the south? Oh, wait you want them for Darfur. Not enough peacekeepers lying about either it seems.

Well, well, well. It appears

Well, well, well.

It appears hell has officially frozen over.

NAIVASHA, Kenya - Moving to end a 21-year civil war, Sudan's government and rebels agreed on issues Tuesday that had prevented a final peace deal, officials said. The parties still have to agree on the details of a comprehensive cease-fire before the war — which has led to the deaths of more than two million people — could be declared over. Then it could take months to determine whether the diplomatic solution will translate to peace on the ground.

It's about time. Still, I'm not holding my breath. Until there's a solid cease fire in place with each side having a reason to keep the peace, the war will rage on. Both sides are battle hardened. Peace will not come easily. Hey, Kofi---how about some UN peacekeepers for the south? Oh, wait you want them for Darfur. Not enough peacekeepers lying about either it seems.

--- And while we're on

--- And while we're on the topic of pharmaceuticals.

Levitra apparently produces the Goldilockian Erection.

It's just right.

--- And while we're on

--- And while we're on the topic of pharmaceuticals.

Levitra apparently produces the Goldilockian Erection.

It's just right.

--- Leery of being pulled

--- Leery of being pulled in by cute Suessian advertising on TV?

I bit.

Crestor is another lower your cholesterol drug.

Just in case you were wondering.

--- Leery of being pulled

--- Leery of being pulled in by cute Suessian advertising on TV?

I bit.

Crestor is another lower your cholesterol drug.

Just in case you were wondering.

The past few days have

The past few days have been crappy. Usually, I like to shop when this happens, and I never
like to shop. Shopping is anathema to me. Unless it's for shoes and
handbags and then it's fine. But it's usually muy dangeroso for me to
use shopping as a mood elevator. I'll buy like crazy. Usually it's
stuff I wanted, but didn't really need, and this is when the credit
card bills go through the roof. But we is 'po. No money to go and shop.
Currently, the mall holds all the appeal of a ninety-five pound wombat.
I just don't want to have anything to do with it.
So, to give myself a slight thrill that didn't really do much in the
skirt-blowing department, but nonetheless quelled the nasties, I made a
wish list at Amazon. All the fun of shopping without the joys of the
husband yelling at me when the credit card statement arrives. You can
find it over on the left hand side, if you're so inclined to see what I
categorize as wants and not needs. I don't expect you to buy me
anything. You're safe from any financial obligations (read begging) for
reading The Cake Eater Chronicles until Needless Markup
figures out that some bloggers would really like a wish list option
because they want shoes. Only then will I expect remuneration for my
efforts. In the form of Manolos. You'll have to get together and pool
your resources, but it can be done. I'm sure of it. Anything's
possible, after all.

The past few days have

The past few days have been crappy. Usually, I like to shop when this happens, and I never
like to shop. Shopping is anathema to me. Unless it's for shoes and
handbags and then it's fine. But it's usually muy dangeroso for me to
use shopping as a mood elevator. I'll buy like crazy. Usually it's
stuff I wanted, but didn't really need, and this is when the credit
card bills go through the roof. But we is 'po. No money to go and shop.
Currently, the mall holds all the appeal of a ninety-five pound wombat.
I just don't want to have anything to do with it.
So, to give myself a slight thrill that didn't really do much in the
skirt-blowing department, but nonetheless quelled the nasties, I made a
wish list at Amazon. All the fun of shopping without the joys of the
husband yelling at me when the credit card statement arrives. You can
find it over on the left hand side, if you're so inclined to see what I
categorize as wants and not needs. I don't expect you to buy me
anything. You're safe from any financial obligations (read begging) for
reading The Cake Eater Chronicles until Needless Markup
figures out that some bloggers would really like a wish list option
because they want shoes. Only then will I expect remuneration for my
efforts. In the form of Manolos. You'll have to get together and pool
your resources, but it can be done. I'm sure of it. Anything's
possible, after all.

NeorealismThe realist tradition has furnished

NeorealismThe realist tradition has furnished an abundant basis
for the formation of what is termed a neorealist approach to
international relations theory. Neorealism purports to refine and
reinvigorate classical realism by developing propositions based upon
the disaggregation of independent and dependent variables, and by
integrating what is termed as classical realist theory into a
contemporary framework based upon comparative analysis. A neorealist
theory would inject greater rigor into the realist tradition by
developing a series of propositions that could be subjected to
empirical testing and investigation. {…} For neorealism, power
remains a key variable, although it exists less as an end in itself
than as a necessary and inevitable component of a political
relationship. According to Kindermann, “just as the instrument of
power and of sanctions does not exhaust the nature of law, the nature
of Politics is also not exhausted by primarily referring to power as
its most important tool.”
Indeed, the neorealist approach represents and effort not only to draw
from classical realism those elements of a theory adequate to the world
of the late twentieth century, but also to link conceptually other
theoretical efforts. Thus the structural realism of Kenneth Waltz draws
heavily upon systems constructs and the neorealism of Kindermann’s
Munich School has as its basis a constellation, or configuration,
consisting of a “systems of interaction---relations between states
and other action-systems of international politics at a given moment or
within a defined period of history past or present.” This neorealist
approach contains as interdependent categories of inquiry 1. system and
decision (leadership) 2. interest and power 3. perception and reality,
4. cooperation and conflict (behavioral strategy) and 5. norm or
advantage. Thus neorealism posits the existence of an international
system consisting of interactive elements that are to be studied by
reference to concepts derived from classical realism, but also based on
variables drawn on cross-cultural comparative analysis. To quote again
from Kindermann’s description: “Neorealism, in other words,
proceeds from the assumption that a much higher degree of of concrete
and quasi-institutionalized cross-disciplinary cooperation is required
before essential progress can be made in our ability to analyze and, if
possible, to predict political action processes of systems as complex
as, for instance, the nation-state and its structurally essential
subsystems.” If the flawed nature of man forms a crucially important
point of departure for classical realist analysis, neorealism has as
its focus the international system. Stated differently, it is the
structure that shapes the political relationships that take place among
its members. For structural realism, international politics is more
than the summation of the foreign policies of states and the external
balance of other actors in the system. Thus, Waltz argues for a
neorealist approach based on patterned relationships among actors in a
system that is anarchical. In this respect, drawing upon the paradigm
of international politics of classical realism, structured realism
contains and emphasis on those features of the structure that mold the
way in which the components relate to one another.{…}
The focus of structural realism is the arrangement of the parts of the
international system with respect to each other. According to Waltz,
“The concept of structure is based on the fact that units differently
juxtaposed and combined behave differently and interacting produce
different outcomes.” Basic to the anarchic system, by virtue of its
structure, is the need for member units to rely on whatever means or
arrangements than can generate in order to ensure survival and enhance
security. In such a system, based as it is on the principle of
self-help, states pursue one or both of two basic courses of action in
keeping with Waltz’s approach to structure as a variable
conditioning, or circumscribing, political behavior. They engage in
internal efforts to increase their political, military and economic
capabilities and to develop effective strategies. They also undertake
attempts to align, or realign, with other actors. The structure of the
system, notably the number of actors and their respective capabilities,
shapes the patterns of interaction that will take place, including the
number of states aligned with each other in opposing groupings as part
of a balance of power. In the anarchical structure all units confront
the minimal need or functional requirements for security, although
there are wide variations among them in their respective capabilities
for this purpose. In Waltz’s perspective, international systems are
transfigured by changes in the distribution of capabilities among its
units. As structures change, so do interactive patterns among its
members as well as the outcomes that such interactions can be expected
to produce. Although the capabilities constitute attributes of units,
their distribution among the various units forms a defining
characteristic of the structure of the system, and in this case, of
structural realism. In sum, central to structural realism, and
especially to the approach developed by Waltz, tis the proposition that
only a structural transformation can alter the anarchical nature of the
international system.{…}
Contending Theories of International Relations. James Dougherty and Robert Pfaltzgraff, Jr.

NeorealismThe realist tradition has furnished

NeorealismThe realist tradition has furnished an abundant basis
for the formation of what is termed a neorealist approach to
international relations theory. Neorealism purports to refine and
reinvigorate classical realism by developing propositions based upon
the disaggregation of independent and dependent variables, and by
integrating what is termed as classical realist theory into a
contemporary framework based upon comparative analysis. A neorealist
theory would inject greater rigor into the realist tradition by
developing a series of propositions that could be subjected to
empirical testing and investigation. {…} For neorealism, power
remains a key variable, although it exists less as an end in itself
than as a necessary and inevitable component of a political
relationship. According to Kindermann, “just as the instrument of
power and of sanctions does not exhaust the nature of law, the nature
of Politics is also not exhausted by primarily referring to power as
its most important tool.”
Indeed, the neorealist approach represents and effort not only to draw
from classical realism those elements of a theory adequate to the world
of the late twentieth century, but also to link conceptually other
theoretical efforts. Thus the structural realism of Kenneth Waltz draws
heavily upon systems constructs and the neorealism of Kindermann’s
Munich School has as its basis a constellation, or configuration,
consisting of a “systems of interaction---relations between states
and other action-systems of international politics at a given moment or
within a defined period of history past or present.” This neorealist
approach contains as interdependent categories of inquiry 1. system and
decision (leadership) 2. interest and power 3. perception and reality,
4. cooperation and conflict (behavioral strategy) and 5. norm or
advantage. Thus neorealism posits the existence of an international
system consisting of interactive elements that are to be studied by
reference to concepts derived from classical realism, but also based on
variables drawn on cross-cultural comparative analysis. To quote again
from Kindermann’s description: “Neorealism, in other words,
proceeds from the assumption that a much higher degree of of concrete
and quasi-institutionalized cross-disciplinary cooperation is required
before essential progress can be made in our ability to analyze and, if
possible, to predict political action processes of systems as complex
as, for instance, the nation-state and its structurally essential
subsystems.” If the flawed nature of man forms a crucially important
point of departure for classical realist analysis, neorealism has as
its focus the international system. Stated differently, it is the
structure that shapes the political relationships that take place among
its members. For structural realism, international politics is more
than the summation of the foreign policies of states and the external
balance of other actors in the system. Thus, Waltz argues for a
neorealist approach based on patterned relationships among actors in a
system that is anarchical. In this respect, drawing upon the paradigm
of international politics of classical realism, structured realism
contains and emphasis on those features of the structure that mold the
way in which the components relate to one another.{…}
The focus of structural realism is the arrangement of the parts of the
international system with respect to each other. According to Waltz,
“The concept of structure is based on the fact that units differently
juxtaposed and combined behave differently and interacting produce
different outcomes.” Basic to the anarchic system, by virtue of its
structure, is the need for member units to rely on whatever means or
arrangements than can generate in order to ensure survival and enhance
security. In such a system, based as it is on the principle of
self-help, states pursue one or both of two basic courses of action in
keeping with Waltz’s approach to structure as a variable
conditioning, or circumscribing, political behavior. They engage in
internal efforts to increase their political, military and economic
capabilities and to develop effective strategies. They also undertake
attempts to align, or realign, with other actors. The structure of the
system, notably the number of actors and their respective capabilities,
shapes the patterns of interaction that will take place, including the
number of states aligned with each other in opposing groupings as part
of a balance of power. In the anarchical structure all units confront
the minimal need or functional requirements for security, although
there are wide variations among them in their respective capabilities
for this purpose. In Waltz’s perspective, international systems are
transfigured by changes in the distribution of capabilities among its
units. As structures change, so do interactive patterns among its
members as well as the outcomes that such interactions can be expected
to produce. Although the capabilities constitute attributes of units,
their distribution among the various units forms a defining
characteristic of the structure of the system, and in this case, of
structural realism. In sum, central to structural realism, and
especially to the approach developed by Waltz, tis the proposition that
only a structural transformation can alter the anarchical nature of the
international system.{…}
Contending Theories of International Relations. James Dougherty and Robert Pfaltzgraff, Jr.

Uncredited swill passing for "journalism."

Uncredited swill passing for "journalism."

I know it's completely useless to ask, but where the hell do these people get off?

Revolting millions around the world, the video footage of an American citizen's execution has also raised numerous questions concerning its authenticity. Even at first glance, internet bloggers were asking on Thursday why Nick Berg was wearing an orange jumpsuit – just like US prisoners wear. Other net surfers point to the unlikely timing of the executioner's dubbed announcement that Berg was to die for "Iraqi prisoner abuse". Berg was last seen alive on 10 April, when his father Michael Berg believes he was killed - two weeks before the Abu Ghraib prisoner abuse scandal broke in the world's media. Some discussions focus on the timing of the video's release - guaranteed to divert attention from the outrage over US abuse of Iraqis.

Which "internet bloggers" were asking why Nick Berg was wearing an orange jumpsuit? Which
"net surfers" pointed to the unlikely timing of the excutioner's dubbed
announcement?
People, if I, the least technologically adept person in the world, can
figure out how to use the hyperlink key at the top of the page, I'm
assuming you can, too. Or didn't the Sheikh shell out the coin for
serious software before you started publishing stuff to the web?
What, are you writing articles on a Apple IIE and hoping that, by the
Grace of Allah, they'll somehow make it to the web? Who are your
sources? Who is saying this stuff and where are they saying it? Your
readers have a right to know, asshole.
But Smallman (nice Arabic name there, eh? I thought this was a by the
Arab, for the Arab operation.) doesn't only do this with bloggers, he
does it with mainstream media, too.

A US newspaper claims an official familiar with the case
knew that FBI agents had interrogated Berg, but had left him for two
weeks because he was in Iraqi - not American - custody.

Which US newspaper? There are more than a few. Or was it a wire article? Who wrote it and why won't you give credit?

It appears this Lawrence Smallman person is a stringer. A quick Google search
indicated that he's filed stories with many different media
organizations---but mostly with Al-Jazeera and other fringe sources.
You know, when the husband was working in Kuwait, due to the time
difference, I'd get two calls a day. One would happen before he went to
the office, which was when I was going to bed, and then he would call
me before he
went to bed---which was midafternoon, my time. His bedtime call was
always longer because he had time to chat and would fill me in on what
life was like for a westerner living out of a hotel room in Kuwait
City. Sometimes, just for variety, he would tell me what he was
watching on TV. TV in the Middle East is a whole new ballgame for
someone used to a hundred cable channels. Not too many choices, but he
liked Asian MTV (except for the Indian warblers)and CNN International.
He also said that "The Nanny" was almost tolerable with Arabic dubbing
because you didn't have to listen to Fran Drescher's nasal whining, but
the channel he really thought was horrible was Saudi TV. "Straight-up
propaganda," he commented. Apparently, there were a goodly number of
puff pieces about "The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques,"---the man
better known as King Fahd, but they never called him King Fahd.
Amazingly enough, the western media always takes reports from Saudi TV
with more than a grain of salt, declaring loudly that their source was
"state operated television in Saudi Arabia," and everyone knows what
that means. It means the source is not reliable; that they will only
publish what they want their people to hear and not a word more.
Al-Jazeera is "state owned and operated" as well. Qatar's emir, Hamad
bin Khalifa Al-Thani is the founder and operator of Al Jazeera. How
come we never hear the description "state-owned and operated" when the
western media describes what Al Jazeera is when they use their stories
as source material? Just asking.

Uncredited swill passing for "journalism."

Uncredited swill passing for "journalism."

I know it's completely useless to ask, but where the hell do these people get off?

Revolting millions around the world, the video footage of an American citizen's execution has also raised numerous questions concerning its authenticity. Even at first glance, internet bloggers were asking on Thursday why Nick Berg was wearing an orange jumpsuit – just like US prisoners wear. Other net surfers point to the unlikely timing of the executioner's dubbed announcement that Berg was to die for "Iraqi prisoner abuse". Berg was last seen alive on 10 April, when his father Michael Berg believes he was killed - two weeks before the Abu Ghraib prisoner abuse scandal broke in the world's media. Some discussions focus on the timing of the video's release - guaranteed to divert attention from the outrage over US abuse of Iraqis.

Which "internet bloggers" were asking why Nick Berg was wearing an orange jumpsuit? Which
"net surfers" pointed to the unlikely timing of the excutioner's dubbed
announcement?
People, if I, the least technologically adept person in the world, can
figure out how to use the hyperlink key at the top of the page, I'm
assuming you can, too. Or didn't the Sheikh shell out the coin for
serious software before you started publishing stuff to the web?
What, are you writing articles on a Apple IIE and hoping that, by the
Grace of Allah, they'll somehow make it to the web? Who are your
sources? Who is saying this stuff and where are they saying it? Your
readers have a right to know, asshole.
But Smallman (nice Arabic name there, eh? I thought this was a by the
Arab, for the Arab operation.) doesn't only do this with bloggers, he
does it with mainstream media, too.

A US newspaper claims an official familiar with the case
knew that FBI agents had interrogated Berg, but had left him for two
weeks because he was in Iraqi - not American - custody.

Which US newspaper? There are more than a few. Or was it a wire article? Who wrote it and why won't you give credit?

It appears this Lawrence Smallman person is a stringer. A quick Google search
indicated that he's filed stories with many different media
organizations---but mostly with Al-Jazeera and other fringe sources.
You know, when the husband was working in Kuwait, due to the time
difference, I'd get two calls a day. One would happen before he went to
the office, which was when I was going to bed, and then he would call
me before he
went to bed---which was midafternoon, my time. His bedtime call was
always longer because he had time to chat and would fill me in on what
life was like for a westerner living out of a hotel room in Kuwait
City. Sometimes, just for variety, he would tell me what he was
watching on TV. TV in the Middle East is a whole new ballgame for
someone used to a hundred cable channels. Not too many choices, but he
liked Asian MTV (except for the Indian warblers)and CNN International.
He also said that "The Nanny" was almost tolerable with Arabic dubbing
because you didn't have to listen to Fran Drescher's nasal whining, but
the channel he really thought was horrible was Saudi TV. "Straight-up
propaganda," he commented. Apparently, there were a goodly number of
puff pieces about "The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques,"---the man
better known as King Fahd, but they never called him King Fahd.
Amazingly enough, the western media always takes reports from Saudi TV
with more than a grain of salt, declaring loudly that their source was
"state operated television in Saudi Arabia," and everyone knows what
that means. It means the source is not reliable; that they will only
publish what they want their people to hear and not a word more.
Al-Jazeera is "state owned and operated" as well. Qatar's emir, Hamad
bin Khalifa Al-Thani is the founder and operator of Al Jazeera. How
come we never hear the description "state-owned and operated" when the
western media describes what Al Jazeera is when they use their stories
as source material? Just asking.

--- "I'm Batman!" Or at

--- "I'm Batman!"

Or at least Christian Bale is Batman.

Mmmmmmmm. Tasty.

Don't quite know what's up with the Batmobile though.

Batman apparently seems ready for the monster truck rally on SUNDAY, SUNDAY, SUNDAY!

Who'd win? Gravedigger or The Batmobile?

--- "I'm Batman!" Or at

--- "I'm Batman!"

Or at least Christian Bale is Batman.

Mmmmmmmm. Tasty.

Don't quite know what's up with the Batmobile though.

Batman apparently seems ready for the monster truck rally on SUNDAY, SUNDAY, SUNDAY!

Who'd win? Gravedigger or The Batmobile?

Power as a Determinant of

Power as a Determinant of International Behavior

Power is one of the words most frequently used in the study of
poltical science, especially in international relations. The absence of
at the international level of adequate institutions and procedures for
resolving conflict comparable to those in most domestic political
systems makes the so-called power element more obvious than at the
domestic level. In a textbook first published in 1933, Frederick L.
Schumann held that in an international system lacking a common
government, each unit “necessarily seeks safety by relying on its own
power and viewing with alarm the power of its neighbors.” According
to Nicholas J. Spykman, “All civilized life rests in the last
instance on power.” Power is the ability to move the individual or
the human collectivity in some desired fashion. Hans J. Morgenthau even
defined international politics, and indeed all politics, as a
“struggle for power.” Thus power has been conceptualized---with
some confusion---as both a means and an end. Morgenthau held that power
is “man’s control over the minds and actions of other men.” {…}
{…}the power of a state is said to consist of capabilities, some of
which are economic in nature---such as the levels of industrialization
and productivity, gross national product, national income and income on
a per capita basis. In an analysis of the economic dimension of
international politics and the political aspects of international
economics, Charles P. Kindleberger assesses power in its intertwined
economic and political contexts. He defines power as “strength
capable of being used efficiently,” that is, “strength plus
the capacity to use it effectively” in support of some objective.
Thus like several other writers, Kindleberger distinguishes between
means and ends, or the use of means for the attainment of ends. Thus
strength is a means that exists even in the absence of its use for some
goal, whereas power is the use of strength for a particular purpose.
According to Kindleberger, “Prestige is the respect which is paid to
power. Influence is the capacity to affect the decisions of others.
Force is the use of physical means to affect those decisions. Dominance
is defined as the condition under which A affects a significant number
of B’s decisions without B affecting those of A.” Power, thus
conceptualized, is related in Kindleberger’s analysis of adaptability
and flexibility in a nation’s economy. Such is the meaning of
efficiency in the use of power. Thus, power is dynamic and changing,
rather than static in nature. Those states or other entities best able
to adjust to change are likely to possess power, and to make most
effective use of it in support of posited goals. {…}Power exists to a
certain extent in the eyes of the beholder. The element of perception,
or subjective assessment, may be high in calculating the resolve of an
adversary to use effectively the power at its disposal. Similar
considerations are operative in deterrence theory, which in turn is
closely related to power as discussed here. The perceptual dimension of
power has been studied by the scoring and ranking of 103 nations in
terms of power perception. It was concluded that the perceived national
power is some function of military expenditures if the state has not
been at war recently. {…}
Contending Theories of International Relations James E. Dougherty and Robert L. Pfaltzgraff, Jr

Power as a Determinant of

Power as a Determinant of International Behavior

Power is one of the words most frequently used in the study of
poltical science, especially in international relations. The absence of
at the international level of adequate institutions and procedures for
resolving conflict comparable to those in most domestic political
systems makes the so-called power element more obvious than at the
domestic level. In a textbook first published in 1933, Frederick L.
Schumann held that in an international system lacking a common
government, each unit “necessarily seeks safety by relying on its own
power and viewing with alarm the power of its neighbors.” According
to Nicholas J. Spykman, “All civilized life rests in the last
instance on power.” Power is the ability to move the individual or
the human collectivity in some desired fashion. Hans J. Morgenthau even
defined international politics, and indeed all politics, as a
“struggle for power.” Thus power has been conceptualized---with
some confusion---as both a means and an end. Morgenthau held that power
is “man’s control over the minds and actions of other men.” {…}
{…}the power of a state is said to consist of capabilities, some of
which are economic in nature---such as the levels of industrialization
and productivity, gross national product, national income and income on
a per capita basis. In an analysis of the economic dimension of
international politics and the political aspects of international
economics, Charles P. Kindleberger assesses power in its intertwined
economic and political contexts. He defines power as “strength
capable of being used efficiently,” that is, “strength plus
the capacity to use it effectively” in support of some objective.
Thus like several other writers, Kindleberger distinguishes between
means and ends, or the use of means for the attainment of ends. Thus
strength is a means that exists even in the absence of its use for some
goal, whereas power is the use of strength for a particular purpose.
According to Kindleberger, “Prestige is the respect which is paid to
power. Influence is the capacity to affect the decisions of others.
Force is the use of physical means to affect those decisions. Dominance
is defined as the condition under which A affects a significant number
of B’s decisions without B affecting those of A.” Power, thus
conceptualized, is related in Kindleberger’s analysis of adaptability
and flexibility in a nation’s economy. Such is the meaning of
efficiency in the use of power. Thus, power is dynamic and changing,
rather than static in nature. Those states or other entities best able
to adjust to change are likely to possess power, and to make most
effective use of it in support of posited goals. {…}Power exists to a
certain extent in the eyes of the beholder. The element of perception,
or subjective assessment, may be high in calculating the resolve of an
adversary to use effectively the power at its disposal. Similar
considerations are operative in deterrence theory, which in turn is
closely related to power as discussed here. The perceptual dimension of
power has been studied by the scoring and ranking of 103 nations in
terms of power perception. It was concluded that the perceived national
power is some function of military expenditures if the state has not
been at war recently. {…}
Contending Theories of International Relations James E. Dougherty and Robert L. Pfaltzgraff, Jr

--- Activism on Sniffer's Row.

--- Activism on Sniffer's Row.

Melissa Smithey, a 19-year-old stripper from Janesville, said she
wouldn't have registered to vote if it hadn't been for the drive at The
Isabella Queen where she works.
"It makes people think we're not just about nudity, but that we're
taking part in society," Smithey said.
And we're also, umm, like, for government subsidized breast implants,
too! And wax jobs! We need help with those and...