With all the nice things, there are still reminders that not all is well in the world. Let's just use a couple of examples, at least until tomorrow. First, some U of M professor publicly came out in favor of cutting Michigan's population to about 2.7 million. That's about 25% of current population numbers. How does this guy keep his job? How'd he get it in the first place? Well, he should, then, lead by example--and go first! What if people, under his plan, don't leave? What then? Forced migration or worse? Reminds me of the typical do-gooders, who are quick to use other people's money for their projects, but viciously hold on to their own cash. Hypocrites all.
And what about the local school board (yeah, we're back on them--apparently nobody has taken Mark Twain at his word yet, 100+ years later!)? After forming public committees to examine possibilities of closing a building or two, it rejected the recommendations because the recs didn't match up with their predetermined ideas--that's the only possibility isn't it? So, they justified this, in looking for other, not recommended buildings to close, it has become, "It's not about money. It's about the kids." Yeah, right--they are dishonest or stupid, take your pick, but one or the other. First, c'mon, it's never really "about the kids" unless that happens to coincide, just accidentally, with their agendas. And, if it's not "about the money," then why are they even thinking about closing a building? There's no reason to do so, none.
I wrote a lengthy reply to a really ill-considered op-ed piece last week about tenure. I'm tired now, but maybe I'll post it here tomorrow. Out....
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Nice Weekend
What a nice weekend, beginning with a good, but tired Fri and ending this eve. Fri was a good eve with friends and Sat AM opened with about 4" of snow, light and fluffy--good to shovel. And, I got out there early enough so I beat the LOUD snowblowers. One neighbor, though, was out in his drive talking on his cell phone--does a cell phone require the user to yell into it? This guy was loud, as if having a conversation with me, standing right beside me. Ha--cell phones.
The basketball games were OK, too. The first one we weren't so hot, not playing very well. But the second game was a lot of fun. I think two guys scored for the first time in two years! And all of the guys but one really played hard, hustling, going after balls, playing defense as if they meant it. It was fun. And it was fun watching their faces beam after being told how well they were doing.
The wine party was fun--let's let it stay at 14 empty wine bottles on the kitchen counter this AM, not to mention the partly full ones in the ice box and the reds/dry whites we just had others take home. Did I say LaBatts, too?
This AM, on my way home from my run, I noticed blue sky! Yep, blue sky. I tried to remember the last time I saw that--maybe a week and a half ago? Then, the sky was sunny all afternoon, although the online weather for Commerce Twp read "cloudy" all day. But, this AM going out at the start of my run, it was a beautiful portrait in gray and black--the white snow from yesterday mixing with the stark blacks and grays of the trees and roads. Jut beautiful! Big storm advisory out for Tue eve/Wed AM--8 to 12" being forecast, now. We'll see.
I enjoyed writing Feb's column, too. Three of four classes of papers are graded, too. I might just finish the last one tomorrow.
The basketball games were OK, too. The first one we weren't so hot, not playing very well. But the second game was a lot of fun. I think two guys scored for the first time in two years! And all of the guys but one really played hard, hustling, going after balls, playing defense as if they meant it. It was fun. And it was fun watching their faces beam after being told how well they were doing.
The wine party was fun--let's let it stay at 14 empty wine bottles on the kitchen counter this AM, not to mention the partly full ones in the ice box and the reds/dry whites we just had others take home. Did I say LaBatts, too?
This AM, on my way home from my run, I noticed blue sky! Yep, blue sky. I tried to remember the last time I saw that--maybe a week and a half ago? Then, the sky was sunny all afternoon, although the online weather for Commerce Twp read "cloudy" all day. But, this AM going out at the start of my run, it was a beautiful portrait in gray and black--the white snow from yesterday mixing with the stark blacks and grays of the trees and roads. Jut beautiful! Big storm advisory out for Tue eve/Wed AM--8 to 12" being forecast, now. We'll see.
I enjoyed writing Feb's column, too. Three of four classes of papers are graded, too. I might just finish the last one tomorrow.
Monday, January 24, 2011
Wonderment?
I am still stunned (not really, but...) by the blame game surrounding the Tucson shooting. First, while K had on the boob tube yesterday, there was a commercial that had shooting and explosions and all kinds of violence and then I noted the product being pitched had nothing to do with shooting and explosions and all kinds of violence, at least not directly. I thought, "Hmmm...commercials, the shows themselves, movies. How many acts of extreme violence are on the boob tube and big screen every day/night? That we so callously exhibit these is quite troubling. That we seem to embrace them, as noted by the popularity of such programs, movies, and video games, not to mention some forms of so-called "music," is more troubling. Yet, has there been any great cry, from either side, about the effects of these overt displays of violence? Oh, it's just television or games or...! Well, let's see, if "it's just...," why do companies spend billions of dollars using it/them to influence our thinking and behavior? It must have some impact. But, again, nary a peep. Second, this AM's newspaper had more letters-to-the-editor about "blame." One came from a "health care professional" or so the writer claimed. He blamed the shooting on the right wing rhetoric, "the conservatives." So, this is what passes as a "professional?" What about the facts that the vitriol has also come from the left, the liberals? Saul Alinsky's book isn't a comic book. President Obama was the one who said, "If they bring knives, we'll bring guns." (Gee, talk about a tie to the Tucson shootings...?) And a New Republic regular claims he was the one who started using "crosshairs" on political "targets." Maybe I'm missing something....
And, the evidence continues to pile up that our schools are being run by boobs--not just locally, but all over the nation. Some school in CA prevented a kid from riding his bike to school because he had an American flag attached to it. I can't begin to think why some ding-a-ling would be opposed to this. Well, I can and none of the thoughts are at all flattering. The kid's story came to light, the local and national support for him was overwhelming. More than 100 veterans on their motorcycles accompanied him to school one day--US flags on their bikes, too. No word from the school, except that the ban was lifted. Why is whoever started this still in hi or her position? Of course, I know why.... It's pandemic.
A local newspaper article this weekend documented how state scores on student tests have been inflated to make the schools look better. Anyone paying attention, anyone who has direct contact with recent graduates knows things aren't getting "better." And they won't until some hard facts are faced and difficult decisions are made. This includes getting rid of current leadership (if it can be called that) and many teachers--all over the country. But what is the likelihood of that? I'd bet Las Vegas would set the odds at close to zero.
And, the evidence continues to pile up that our schools are being run by boobs--not just locally, but all over the nation. Some school in CA prevented a kid from riding his bike to school because he had an American flag attached to it. I can't begin to think why some ding-a-ling would be opposed to this. Well, I can and none of the thoughts are at all flattering. The kid's story came to light, the local and national support for him was overwhelming. More than 100 veterans on their motorcycles accompanied him to school one day--US flags on their bikes, too. No word from the school, except that the ban was lifted. Why is whoever started this still in hi or her position? Of course, I know why.... It's pandemic.
A local newspaper article this weekend documented how state scores on student tests have been inflated to make the schools look better. Anyone paying attention, anyone who has direct contact with recent graduates knows things aren't getting "better." And they won't until some hard facts are faced and difficult decisions are made. This includes getting rid of current leadership (if it can be called that) and many teachers--all over the country. But what is the likelihood of that? I'd bet Las Vegas would set the odds at close to zero.
Mon AM Thoughts
Brrrrrr! It's still cold out there--Ashley and I share, "Baby...it's cold outside!" It was zero, actual temperature, not that windchill stuff, yesterday during our run. It hit a high here of 12 during the afternoon, but is back at zero right now. It was odd, with the low temperatures, to watch the bright sunshine still melt the light dusting of snow on our driveway. Radiant heat....
I was laughed at yesterday, at least a bit, for not watching the football game(s). In fact, in yakking on the phone, I discovered who was playing. I was almost shamed into turning on the Packers/Bears game, but soon lost interest. I didn't watch any of the Steelers/Jets game. I try, but I just have no interest in these games. We've been invited to a Super Bowl Party and I'm looking forward to going. But I doubt I'll watch much of the game, but will be Mr Social--you know me!
It is really gratifying to see some of the 3rd/4th graders play basketball. OK, one of them is really head and shoulders above almost all of the rest--in the whole league, not just our team. But the improvement over last year is fun to watch--many don't really score at all, although some do, but they have an idea of what they are doing, play hard, and do other things like play defense and even dribble much better. Practice tonight and I'm looking forward to it.
Ugh. I spent about 6-7 hours yesterday grading papers. I have about 2 1/2 classes (of 4) done so far. I hope to finish all of the rest today, along with entering my final class lists. I figure another 3-4 hours today. More come in this week, but the essays won't be as long.
I was laughed at yesterday, at least a bit, for not watching the football game(s). In fact, in yakking on the phone, I discovered who was playing. I was almost shamed into turning on the Packers/Bears game, but soon lost interest. I didn't watch any of the Steelers/Jets game. I try, but I just have no interest in these games. We've been invited to a Super Bowl Party and I'm looking forward to going. But I doubt I'll watch much of the game, but will be Mr Social--you know me!
It is really gratifying to see some of the 3rd/4th graders play basketball. OK, one of them is really head and shoulders above almost all of the rest--in the whole league, not just our team. But the improvement over last year is fun to watch--many don't really score at all, although some do, but they have an idea of what they are doing, play hard, and do other things like play defense and even dribble much better. Practice tonight and I'm looking forward to it.
Ugh. I spent about 6-7 hours yesterday grading papers. I have about 2 1/2 classes (of 4) done so far. I hope to finish all of the rest today, along with entering my final class lists. I figure another 3-4 hours today. More come in this week, but the essays won't be as long.
Saturday, January 15, 2011
Discourse
What is the phrase used by the comedian(s)? "And they vote!" This has struck me reading and hearing the comments from those blaming the "vitriol," "the hate speech," the whatever of the critics of the gov't for the shootings by that nutcase in Tucson.
It would then seem that any action that is undesirable, even violent action, can be "blamed" on someone's speech. Theo van Gogh's death? Those critics of Islam should have kept their mouths shut. You get it....
It would also seem people have very short or, more likely, very selective memories. (Or perhaps they are just ignorant.) Who was it who said, "If they bring knives, we'll bring guns!" and who is the self-proclaimed "author" of using scope crosshairs on political targets? (Hint: He writes for The New Republic and is often the spokesman for "the Left" on television and radio talk shows.) I have no problem with either of these, just as I have no problem with the Tea Parties, Palin, et al.
And, any comment about the likes of Saul Alinsky and Rules for Radicals? Did that inspire others to violence? Where are/were the clamors about it from those issuing diatribes now? Not only did he get a free pass; he got a teaching position at one of our most prestigious universities. Double standards, hypocrisy...I've let my opinions be known about those.
Ross Douthat was quoted in the paper this AM and it is right on the money: "When our politicians and media loudmouths act like fools and zealots, they should be held responsible for being fools and zealots." As the Codester would say, as a matter of clear fact, "Yep!"
When we give up our right to voice, forcefully, with meaning, our views and opinions, we have begun the descent from democracy and freedom.
That said, Bill Bennett had a calm voice of reason this week. (And who are the two people, I let them identify themselves, who, in recent months remarked to me, "You like Bennett? He's a bigot!" I replied to them, "Oh? Can you give me an example of his bigotry?" When there was silence, I went on, "I think Bennett is very intelligent. People need to listen to him." There was, of course, more silence while his critics thought me, too, a bigot I'll bet. But, that kind of thought couldn't lead to an atmosphere of a shooting in a mall parking lot, could it? No, it's always the other side's "vitriol" and "hate speech.") Anyway, Bennett remarked that a lot of this shouting, from either side, is pointless because it won't convince anyone to change opinions. Who, being yelled at or called names, will concede or at least reconsider a point? Yes, I'm thinking about that one...but I'm also thinking about "fools and zealots" being held "responsible" through forceful speech.
Out to shovel 2" or so.... It's so beautiful out there, just before dawn.
It would then seem that any action that is undesirable, even violent action, can be "blamed" on someone's speech. Theo van Gogh's death? Those critics of Islam should have kept their mouths shut. You get it....
It would also seem people have very short or, more likely, very selective memories. (Or perhaps they are just ignorant.) Who was it who said, "If they bring knives, we'll bring guns!" and who is the self-proclaimed "author" of using scope crosshairs on political targets? (Hint: He writes for The New Republic and is often the spokesman for "the Left" on television and radio talk shows.) I have no problem with either of these, just as I have no problem with the Tea Parties, Palin, et al.
And, any comment about the likes of Saul Alinsky and Rules for Radicals? Did that inspire others to violence? Where are/were the clamors about it from those issuing diatribes now? Not only did he get a free pass; he got a teaching position at one of our most prestigious universities. Double standards, hypocrisy...I've let my opinions be known about those.
Ross Douthat was quoted in the paper this AM and it is right on the money: "When our politicians and media loudmouths act like fools and zealots, they should be held responsible for being fools and zealots." As the Codester would say, as a matter of clear fact, "Yep!"
When we give up our right to voice, forcefully, with meaning, our views and opinions, we have begun the descent from democracy and freedom.
That said, Bill Bennett had a calm voice of reason this week. (And who are the two people, I let them identify themselves, who, in recent months remarked to me, "You like Bennett? He's a bigot!" I replied to them, "Oh? Can you give me an example of his bigotry?" When there was silence, I went on, "I think Bennett is very intelligent. People need to listen to him." There was, of course, more silence while his critics thought me, too, a bigot I'll bet. But, that kind of thought couldn't lead to an atmosphere of a shooting in a mall parking lot, could it? No, it's always the other side's "vitriol" and "hate speech.") Anyway, Bennett remarked that a lot of this shouting, from either side, is pointless because it won't convince anyone to change opinions. Who, being yelled at or called names, will concede or at least reconsider a point? Yes, I'm thinking about that one...but I'm also thinking about "fools and zealots" being held "responsible" through forceful speech.
Out to shovel 2" or so.... It's so beautiful out there, just before dawn.
Monday, January 10, 2011
Ariz Shootings
What a terrible tragedy, in more ways than one! A nine-year old girl shot and killed? How utterly senseless. Esp with my own 9-year old, my heart breaks. Others, there just to express opinions, voice protests or support, or even just to shop for groceries.... No mercy, none, should be shown this shooter.
Of course, the foolish, ridiculous comments came out almost faster than I expected. The shootings, according to these fools, can be laid at the feet of Palin, the Tea Partiers, and their ilk. C'mon, how stupid! So, then, I suppose, the murders committed by Al Capone and the Purple Gang can be blamed on the Prohibitionists? Let's also blame Charlie Manson on the Beatles?
At Cooper Union, Lincoln opined, "A highwayman holds a pistol to my ear and mutters through his teeth, 'Stand and deliver or I shall kill you and then you will be a murderer!'" No!
Lost in much of this isn't this nut's derangement, but the real anger Americans have for their elected officials (and their appointees). People are sick and tired of the kind of government we've been getting for the past decades, the growth, the intrusions on our lives, the wastefulness, the arrogance of the self-anointed elites, etc. Again, this in no way, none, gives any slack to the shooter (yes, I believe in the death penalty, esp when the victims include a 9-year old!). But those who have no reverence or even respect for the Constitution need to reconsider all of the harm they have done, through selfishness and/or arrogance, desire for power, or even misguided intents. Stop. Stop right now and start doing the right things. (There, I've said it, "...the right things!" Yes, that's a value judgment, but I don't accept that junk from the relativists, the diversity folks, etc. I believe there is a right and a wrong, OK with maybe some over which we can legitimately, but respectfully and peacefully disagree. But there are "right things.")
OK, out to make chocolate chunk cookies with Ashley.
Of course, the foolish, ridiculous comments came out almost faster than I expected. The shootings, according to these fools, can be laid at the feet of Palin, the Tea Partiers, and their ilk. C'mon, how stupid! So, then, I suppose, the murders committed by Al Capone and the Purple Gang can be blamed on the Prohibitionists? Let's also blame Charlie Manson on the Beatles?
At Cooper Union, Lincoln opined, "A highwayman holds a pistol to my ear and mutters through his teeth, 'Stand and deliver or I shall kill you and then you will be a murderer!'" No!
Lost in much of this isn't this nut's derangement, but the real anger Americans have for their elected officials (and their appointees). People are sick and tired of the kind of government we've been getting for the past decades, the growth, the intrusions on our lives, the wastefulness, the arrogance of the self-anointed elites, etc. Again, this in no way, none, gives any slack to the shooter (yes, I believe in the death penalty, esp when the victims include a 9-year old!). But those who have no reverence or even respect for the Constitution need to reconsider all of the harm they have done, through selfishness and/or arrogance, desire for power, or even misguided intents. Stop. Stop right now and start doing the right things. (There, I've said it, "...the right things!" Yes, that's a value judgment, but I don't accept that junk from the relativists, the diversity folks, etc. I believe there is a right and a wrong, OK with maybe some over which we can legitimately, but respectfully and peacefully disagree. But there are "right things.")
OK, out to make chocolate chunk cookies with Ashley.
Joltin' Joe
Thanks for the word on the upcoming biog of Joe D! I will look for it. Di Maggio was always, I mean always, my father's favorite player. Charlie Gehringer was next, but not close to Joe. If someone made a great play, my dad's comment was immediately, "Di Maggio would have had it in his hip pocket."
I'll be interested in the Joe D biog, esp in light of the many negative comments from players I've read. Oh, they acknowledge his great play; it was his personality that grated.
Thanks.
I'll be interested in the Joe D biog, esp in light of the many negative comments from players I've read. Oh, they acknowledge his great play; it was his personality that grated.
Thanks.
Saturday, January 8, 2011
History Lectures
I heard a couple of history lectures today on C-Span (again, don't ask). There were a couple of really great points.
One focused on the southern sense/culture of "honor" as a cause of secession and, ultimately, the Civil War. A questioner asked how that sense of "honor" might also be seen in the modern world/culture of Islam. Pretty good one.... More on that later next week.
The other asked about the sense of "honor" and more current times. The lecturer talked about a colleague of his who played football at U of Colorado and, rumor had it, had returned an int for a TD in the Orange Bowl. Finally, to set matters straight, the colleague showed a tape of the game...with his return. What struck the original history prof was that throughout the game, when players of either side made good/great plays, they just got up and went back to the huddle to await the next play. No showmanship. Cool.... Does that mean the players of the past cared less about winning, about doing well? I wouldn't think that at all. But it does tell us a lot, doesn't it?
I was also struck by a reference to southern defense of its position in a speech by the Alabamian Yancey. He talked about the right to rebel of Russian serfs, of hogs readied to be slaughtered, and, hence, of the southern states to secede. He was silent and and the prof didn't note it about the right of slaves to rebel. Hmmm.... But he was pretty darn good on why southerners, 80% or more of whom didn't own slaves, went to war over it, risking life and limb, property, everything.
One focused on the southern sense/culture of "honor" as a cause of secession and, ultimately, the Civil War. A questioner asked how that sense of "honor" might also be seen in the modern world/culture of Islam. Pretty good one.... More on that later next week.
The other asked about the sense of "honor" and more current times. The lecturer talked about a colleague of his who played football at U of Colorado and, rumor had it, had returned an int for a TD in the Orange Bowl. Finally, to set matters straight, the colleague showed a tape of the game...with his return. What struck the original history prof was that throughout the game, when players of either side made good/great plays, they just got up and went back to the huddle to await the next play. No showmanship. Cool.... Does that mean the players of the past cared less about winning, about doing well? I wouldn't think that at all. But it does tell us a lot, doesn't it?
I was also struck by a reference to southern defense of its position in a speech by the Alabamian Yancey. He talked about the right to rebel of Russian serfs, of hogs readied to be slaughtered, and, hence, of the southern states to secede. He was silent and and the prof didn't note it about the right of slaves to rebel. Hmmm.... But he was pretty darn good on why southerners, 80% or more of whom didn't own slaves, went to war over it, risking life and limb, property, everything.
Mantle
I enjoyed the Koufax biog by Leavy better than the Mantle one. Maybe that's because of the subject.
Mantle was maybe the most talented player ever. He certainly had two or three of the very best years any player amassed. And, to think he did all this with all of the injuries, often wrapped in tape like a mummy, is astounding. Toss in all his drinking and carousing....
Yet, despite Leavy's attempts to make him more sympathetic--he was generous to teammates, he was abused as a kid (what jerk wasn't abused as a kid?)--he still comes across as a low-life. Read how he autographed baseballs--or didn't autograph them. Read how he flaunted his marriage, openly. Read how he treated women, when he could or couldn't use them. It's hard to like someone like that, hard to root for him.
Interesting that, although they are cited as being interviews, Hank Aaron and Al Kaline, maybe even Frank Robinson were never quoted. Hmm....
Along the way, Joe DiMaggio also comes across as an A #1 jerk. I pretty much knew that, though. My dad didn't let that bother him--DiMaggio was the greatest, the standard against everyone else should be measured, if they could.
Mantle was maybe the most talented player ever. He certainly had two or three of the very best years any player amassed. And, to think he did all this with all of the injuries, often wrapped in tape like a mummy, is astounding. Toss in all his drinking and carousing....
Yet, despite Leavy's attempts to make him more sympathetic--he was generous to teammates, he was abused as a kid (what jerk wasn't abused as a kid?)--he still comes across as a low-life. Read how he autographed baseballs--or didn't autograph them. Read how he flaunted his marriage, openly. Read how he treated women, when he could or couldn't use them. It's hard to like someone like that, hard to root for him.
Interesting that, although they are cited as being interviews, Hank Aaron and Al Kaline, maybe even Frank Robinson were never quoted. Hmm....
Along the way, Joe DiMaggio also comes across as an A #1 jerk. I pretty much knew that, though. My dad didn't let that bother him--DiMaggio was the greatest, the standard against everyone else should be measured, if they could.
Friday, January 7, 2011
The Constitution
Yes, I have seen the recent appointments Obama made to his team of "czars." Why don't people seem to catch on to the term "czars," you know, as in the Russian autocrat? Remember these guys, the ones who invented "Siberia?" It is frightening how Congress, the courts, and the people are letting the executive and his bureaucrats do end runs around gov't of the people, by the people, and for the people.
The key to everything is whether Nov's elections will have any effect. Will those elected because of voter anger have the fortitude and courage to shut down these perversions of democracy? Will they echo the voters in their shouts of "That's enough!?!?" Will they play games and say all the "right things" will continuing business as usual? There have been several of them who have postured so, declaring how "moderate" or even "conservative" they are, despite records of voting for Obama, Reid, Pelosi 90% or more of the time. Hey, if we offer free dinners to people if they'd only agree on steak or seafood or whatever, we couldn't get 90% agreement! Will our elected reps return to the Constitution and its principles of limited gov't? I hope so, but fear not.
Power has a way of being intoxicating. Look at history, as unappetizing and uncool as it is. There is a reason, from the dawn of time, through the centuries, people have risked their lives and those of others--power. In our democracy, the "elites" have become intoxicated. Will they give up, willingly, the seat of power? It would take one of great moral fortitude and courage to do so, one who believes in the principles of limited gov't. Do you really think a Levin, a Stabenow, a Dingell, a Conyers, etc. would do so, esp when each of them believes he/she knows what is best for us, that he/she is smarter than we are?
I believe their ilk and the courts cringe at the idea that invoking the principles of the Constitution would limit, if not end, their increasing expansion of big government, of infringements on individual rights (not entitlements, etc.). Congress, the President, the bureaucrats, even the courts are not empowered to do whatever they like, whenever they like, just because they have been elected or appointed by Constitutional means. For instance, use of the Constitution's Commerce Clause by recent Congresses and Presidents, interpreted incorrectly by the courts, has been shameful, dishonest.
Note my previous comments on "dishonesty," be it with the media, politicians, local school boards, or what. Certainly we can disagree over some of the Constitution, esp its applications 220+ years after it was written. But honesty in terms of interpretation doesn't mean "everything goes," "all's fair...." etc. Hardly. Because something is supposed to make others "feel good" doesn't mean it is Constitutional. Because something makes others "feel "uncomfortable" doesn't mean it is unconstitutional.
As I've said before, none of this will affect me personally. I'll be dead soon enough. But for the future of young Americans, most namely my kids and grandkids, I am concerned. I want them to have all of the opportunities, all of the liberties I've had. Again, if you don't believe me, if you think I'm paranoid, some conspiracy nut, just read through the papers. If some gov't bureaucracy can force you to buy some kind of insurance, can make it so you can't buy a Happy Meal, what's next?
The key to everything is whether Nov's elections will have any effect. Will those elected because of voter anger have the fortitude and courage to shut down these perversions of democracy? Will they echo the voters in their shouts of "That's enough!?!?" Will they play games and say all the "right things" will continuing business as usual? There have been several of them who have postured so, declaring how "moderate" or even "conservative" they are, despite records of voting for Obama, Reid, Pelosi 90% or more of the time. Hey, if we offer free dinners to people if they'd only agree on steak or seafood or whatever, we couldn't get 90% agreement! Will our elected reps return to the Constitution and its principles of limited gov't? I hope so, but fear not.
Power has a way of being intoxicating. Look at history, as unappetizing and uncool as it is. There is a reason, from the dawn of time, through the centuries, people have risked their lives and those of others--power. In our democracy, the "elites" have become intoxicated. Will they give up, willingly, the seat of power? It would take one of great moral fortitude and courage to do so, one who believes in the principles of limited gov't. Do you really think a Levin, a Stabenow, a Dingell, a Conyers, etc. would do so, esp when each of them believes he/she knows what is best for us, that he/she is smarter than we are?
I believe their ilk and the courts cringe at the idea that invoking the principles of the Constitution would limit, if not end, their increasing expansion of big government, of infringements on individual rights (not entitlements, etc.). Congress, the President, the bureaucrats, even the courts are not empowered to do whatever they like, whenever they like, just because they have been elected or appointed by Constitutional means. For instance, use of the Constitution's Commerce Clause by recent Congresses and Presidents, interpreted incorrectly by the courts, has been shameful, dishonest.
Note my previous comments on "dishonesty," be it with the media, politicians, local school boards, or what. Certainly we can disagree over some of the Constitution, esp its applications 220+ years after it was written. But honesty in terms of interpretation doesn't mean "everything goes," "all's fair...." etc. Hardly. Because something is supposed to make others "feel good" doesn't mean it is Constitutional. Because something makes others "feel "uncomfortable" doesn't mean it is unconstitutional.
As I've said before, none of this will affect me personally. I'll be dead soon enough. But for the future of young Americans, most namely my kids and grandkids, I am concerned. I want them to have all of the opportunities, all of the liberties I've had. Again, if you don't believe me, if you think I'm paranoid, some conspiracy nut, just read through the papers. If some gov't bureaucracy can force you to buy some kind of insurance, can make it so you can't buy a Happy Meal, what's next?
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
Honesty?
First, to clear the air, I don't care what they do with Rich Rodriguez. I've written about him, U of M, college athletics (at least the "big-time" sports), etc. often enough.
But this AM on a radio show devoted to the reports of Richard Rodriguez's firing I heard some guy talk about "honesty" or, rather, the lack of it. He claimed it is "difficult to find" nowadays. "Everybody lies." Namely, he was talking about journalists, athletic officials, politicians, and gov't officials. To cite one of his examples, he talked about his local school board. Apparently in some sort of legal action with his local board, he offered to take a lie detector test with the State Police and encouraged the school officials to do the same. He claimed it was a matter of public record, the lie detector tests, and he passed, while the school guys declined. I guess the explanation was "seeing things from different perspectives." Yeah, right.... That's like "misspeaking," is it?
In the end, who cares about these college sports? Again and again, the NCAA and member schools have shown what a sham "student-athlete" is. They have demonstrated their hypocrisy and dishonesty. (Can you say Ohio State and Sugar Bowl--or whatever bowl it played?) If fans want to admit that it's all a joke, then cheer away! Alumni (and I heard this AM on the radio, for the umpteenth time, "he's an alumni;" these people get paid to fracture the English language) should be (but, of course, aren't) insulted, embarrassed, furious at what is happening at their alma maters. Speaks volumes to me....
But the larger question is honesty in the media. I won't go so far to say the media are dead, but it is telling that I read recently that a poll held blogs in higher confidence/trust than the mainstream/lamestream media. Those journalists with any integrity should be ashamed of that and should be working to make things better. Of course, they won't be able to, just as the best teachers can't make any real inroads to improving schools.
Before making cookies with Ashley, one more thing. Have you noticed the President's czars (regulatory agencies) are doing what Congress didn't pass? The health care death panels, that we were assured wouldn't be created? They have been, by agency directives. The cap and tax carbon taxes that were defeated by Congress? They've been enacted, by agency directives. When will members of Congress step up with some courage and integrity and stop this madness of government, not of the people, by the people, for the people, but by executive fiat and bureaucracy? Don't hold your breath. There's more, including a move by the Dems in the Senate to limit filibustering, something they vehemently opposed about 16 years ago--when they were in the minority!!!! Hypocrites.
I believe it really is a battle for the soul of our country and culture and the good guys are losing, badly. But, who cares? The OSU players got to play and won the game for the Big Ten!
But this AM on a radio show devoted to the reports of Richard Rodriguez's firing I heard some guy talk about "honesty" or, rather, the lack of it. He claimed it is "difficult to find" nowadays. "Everybody lies." Namely, he was talking about journalists, athletic officials, politicians, and gov't officials. To cite one of his examples, he talked about his local school board. Apparently in some sort of legal action with his local board, he offered to take a lie detector test with the State Police and encouraged the school officials to do the same. He claimed it was a matter of public record, the lie detector tests, and he passed, while the school guys declined. I guess the explanation was "seeing things from different perspectives." Yeah, right.... That's like "misspeaking," is it?
In the end, who cares about these college sports? Again and again, the NCAA and member schools have shown what a sham "student-athlete" is. They have demonstrated their hypocrisy and dishonesty. (Can you say Ohio State and Sugar Bowl--or whatever bowl it played?) If fans want to admit that it's all a joke, then cheer away! Alumni (and I heard this AM on the radio, for the umpteenth time, "he's an alumni;" these people get paid to fracture the English language) should be (but, of course, aren't) insulted, embarrassed, furious at what is happening at their alma maters. Speaks volumes to me....
But the larger question is honesty in the media. I won't go so far to say the media are dead, but it is telling that I read recently that a poll held blogs in higher confidence/trust than the mainstream/lamestream media. Those journalists with any integrity should be ashamed of that and should be working to make things better. Of course, they won't be able to, just as the best teachers can't make any real inroads to improving schools.
Before making cookies with Ashley, one more thing. Have you noticed the President's czars (regulatory agencies) are doing what Congress didn't pass? The health care death panels, that we were assured wouldn't be created? They have been, by agency directives. The cap and tax carbon taxes that were defeated by Congress? They've been enacted, by agency directives. When will members of Congress step up with some courage and integrity and stop this madness of government, not of the people, by the people, for the people, but by executive fiat and bureaucracy? Don't hold your breath. There's more, including a move by the Dems in the Senate to limit filibustering, something they vehemently opposed about 16 years ago--when they were in the minority!!!! Hypocrites.
I believe it really is a battle for the soul of our country and culture and the good guys are losing, badly. But, who cares? The OSU players got to play and won the game for the Big Ten!
Saturday, January 1, 2011
Palace Council
Stephen L. Carter is one of my favorite novelists. He also writes nonfiction, but I haven't yet read any of it. The Emperor of Ocean Park and New England White told brilliant tales. The Palace Council is equally wonderful.
Carter is one of those unique authors who is entertaining, but also teaches. He is insightful and thought-provoking. And he is not trendy or quirky; he is not, I'm sure, a favorite of the cognescenti. In other words, he won't win many of the awards that some other, much less deserving authors are given.
"You die young or you get old." That one has prompted a lot of thought, esp with the recent deaths that seem to have surrounded us--not to mention getting older myself! "Sometimes the 'what ifs' are all we have." Wow! "What's the sense of being a lawyer," one of his characters says, "if one can't make a difference?" Fill in any other career for "lawyer."
And, in his Notes, Carter writes this: "...the dawn of modern America--the mean-spirited America of me-first, trust-nobody, sound bites, revile-anyone-who-disagrees, and devil-take-the-hindmost. All of this misbehavior is a mark of our timidity, not our confidence. Americans across the political spectrum cannot bear dissent because we lack the courage to meet it squarely." Yep, Yep, and Yep again.
I would add, we lack the intellectual ability to defend our postures. It's much easier to call names, smear with a wide paint brush, ostracize, etc. than to rationally argue and attempt to persuade.
That's what has made, for me at least, the 2010 Amherst College Class of 1970 dialogue about "Lives of Consequence" so appealing and riveting. Opinions have varied, as expected. But they have been respectful of differing thoughts. They have examined the strengths and weaknesses of the arguments, pointing out what needs illumination. There has been no attempt to "revile-anyone who disagrees," to ostracize or marginalize, to call names. The discussion has been the epitome of intellectual rigor. Our professors, I think, would be proud of what we have learned from them.
Now, contrast that, as Carter notes, with our politicans and government officials, those who run our schools, etc. They won't or more likely can't justify what they do. They unable to defend their ideas. So, instead, they attack the questioner(s), from individual critics to the Tea Partiers.
I certainly recommend Carter's novels.....
Carter is one of those unique authors who is entertaining, but also teaches. He is insightful and thought-provoking. And he is not trendy or quirky; he is not, I'm sure, a favorite of the cognescenti. In other words, he won't win many of the awards that some other, much less deserving authors are given.
"You die young or you get old." That one has prompted a lot of thought, esp with the recent deaths that seem to have surrounded us--not to mention getting older myself! "Sometimes the 'what ifs' are all we have." Wow! "What's the sense of being a lawyer," one of his characters says, "if one can't make a difference?" Fill in any other career for "lawyer."
And, in his Notes, Carter writes this: "...the dawn of modern America--the mean-spirited America of me-first, trust-nobody, sound bites, revile-anyone-who-disagrees, and devil-take-the-hindmost. All of this misbehavior is a mark of our timidity, not our confidence. Americans across the political spectrum cannot bear dissent because we lack the courage to meet it squarely." Yep, Yep, and Yep again.
I would add, we lack the intellectual ability to defend our postures. It's much easier to call names, smear with a wide paint brush, ostracize, etc. than to rationally argue and attempt to persuade.
That's what has made, for me at least, the 2010 Amherst College Class of 1970 dialogue about "Lives of Consequence" so appealing and riveting. Opinions have varied, as expected. But they have been respectful of differing thoughts. They have examined the strengths and weaknesses of the arguments, pointing out what needs illumination. There has been no attempt to "revile-anyone who disagrees," to ostracize or marginalize, to call names. The discussion has been the epitome of intellectual rigor. Our professors, I think, would be proud of what we have learned from them.
Now, contrast that, as Carter notes, with our politicans and government officials, those who run our schools, etc. They won't or more likely can't justify what they do. They unable to defend their ideas. So, instead, they attack the questioner(s), from individual critics to the Tea Partiers.
I certainly recommend Carter's novels.....
Mickey Mantle
I'm reading a biog of Mickey Mantle. It's amazing the hold some athletes, Mantle in this case, have over others. A "roast" of Mantle was being planned. Bill Skowron was asked to be one of the roasters. He hesitated and finally declined, saying, "You want me to make fun of Mickey Mantle?" I'll be curious to see how the author (Jane Leavy, who wrote an outstanding biog of Sandy Koufax) sifts through the fact and the fiction. And it will be interesting to see people's perceptions of Mantle, contemporary and otherwise.
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