Stigma? What Stigma?
JonBenet's Father May Run for Michigan House Seat No, I'm not accusing him of killing his daughter, but he hasn't helped his case any by being uncooperative in the investigation. He and his wife alwys struck me as being self-serving and emotionally shallow. You'd think reasonable people would not want he spotlight after that. Not Mr. Ramsey, apparently.
Am I being unfair here?
Sunday, March 7, 2004
At the Movies
Today is Alison's birthday. She wanted to see a movie to celebrate, so we did. We just got back from Starsky and Hutch. It's a fun movie, with quitea few belly laughs. Will Ferrell has a bit part, but it is the funniest scene. Wilson and Stiller make a pretty good pair, especially when they are playing it straight right alongside the outlandish Snoop Dogg. It was a neat way to spend an evening. Bittersweet, too, as these outing will soon end and we all go our separate ways.
Today is Alison's birthday. She wanted to see a movie to celebrate, so we did. We just got back from Starsky and Hutch. It's a fun movie, with quitea few belly laughs. Will Ferrell has a bit part, but it is the funniest scene. Wilson and Stiller make a pretty good pair, especially when they are playing it straight right alongside the outlandish Snoop Dogg. It was a neat way to spend an evening. Bittersweet, too, as these outing will soon end and we all go our separate ways.
Saturday, March 6, 2004
City of Angels=Cuervo Nation?
Los Angeles Ponders Selling Naming Rights: That's what I love about America: everything is for sale. Surprisingyl enough, L.A. would be following in the footsteps of New York City, which sold its rights to Snapple. I think there is a big difference between claiming Snapple as your city's official beverage and tequila, but, hey, it isn't my city. If itwere, I'd hold out for a heck of a lot more than $1 million--especially with a $250 million shortfall. I'll bet city councilmen swindle more than $1 million every year each. Geez, guys. Negotiate some, will ya?
Remember a name from this:Eric Garcetti. He'is the son of District Attorney Gil Garcetti, who survived Rodney King, the riots, and OJ, so you know the guy's got some political genes. He's also a Rhodes Scholar who's a shhining star in the Young Democrats. He may be a city councilman now, but you can tell he just oozes ambition. He'll be in Congress before the decade is out. Mark my words.
Los Angeles Ponders Selling Naming Rights: That's what I love about America: everything is for sale. Surprisingyl enough, L.A. would be following in the footsteps of New York City, which sold its rights to Snapple. I think there is a big difference between claiming Snapple as your city's official beverage and tequila, but, hey, it isn't my city. If itwere, I'd hold out for a heck of a lot more than $1 million--especially with a $250 million shortfall. I'll bet city councilmen swindle more than $1 million every year each. Geez, guys. Negotiate some, will ya?
Remember a name from this:Eric Garcetti. He'is the son of District Attorney Gil Garcetti, who survived Rodney King, the riots, and OJ, so you know the guy's got some political genes. He's also a Rhodes Scholar who's a shhining star in the Young Democrats. He may be a city councilman now, but you can tell he just oozes ambition. He'll be in Congress before the decade is out. Mark my words.
For the 'War of Northern Aggression' Buffs
Valley of the Shadow: This is a digital archive of primary sources that document the lives of people in Augusta County, Virginia, and Franklin County, Pennsylvania, during the era of the American Civil Wa. The Valley of the Shadow is different than many other history websites. It is more like a library than a single book. There is no "one" story in the Valley Project. Rather, what you'll find are thousands of letters and diaries, census and government records, newspapers and speeches, all of which record different aspects of daily life in these two counties at the time of the Civil War. As you explore the extensive archive and you'll find that you can flip through a Valley resident's Civil War diary, read what the county newspapers reported about the battle of Gettysburg, or even search the census records to see how much the average citizen owned in 1860 or 1870.
Valley of the Shadow: This is a digital archive of primary sources that document the lives of people in Augusta County, Virginia, and Franklin County, Pennsylvania, during the era of the American Civil Wa. The Valley of the Shadow is different than many other history websites. It is more like a library than a single book. There is no "one" story in the Valley Project. Rather, what you'll find are thousands of letters and diaries, census and government records, newspapers and speeches, all of which record different aspects of daily life in these two counties at the time of the Civil War. As you explore the extensive archive and you'll find that you can flip through a Valley resident's Civil War diary, read what the county newspapers reported about the battle of Gettysburg, or even search the census records to see how much the average citizen owned in 1860 or 1870.
Friday, March 5, 2004
Excuses, Excuses
Blogging has been light today, but i was out enjoying the spring-like weather. And i also took some time to dump my Martha Stewart stock. What do you think suits her best: vertical black stripes on white or basic orange? Not that the decision is up to her, of course. Remember, Martha, life is not holding a good hand but playing a poor hand well. Oh, and next time, don't lie to the nice men from the SEC.
I'm being mean, i know. Truthfuly, I've been bugged all day by a dream I had lasr night. It involved an old college..agem...friend. I dreamt I was camped out on her parents patio waiting for her. I knew i had been there a long time, and i could tell her parents were afraid of me. The kicker is that i knew she was married andnever returning to her parents house, yet I refused to leave. It has stuck with me all day, and is irritating me much more than it should. Truthfully, it shouldn'tirritate me at all. I can't understand why i am irked by so many silly things as of ate. I think i'm under way too much stress and uncertainty. Lord, I am glad it is Spring Break.
Blogging has been light today, but i was out enjoying the spring-like weather. And i also took some time to dump my Martha Stewart stock. What do you think suits her best: vertical black stripes on white or basic orange? Not that the decision is up to her, of course. Remember, Martha, life is not holding a good hand but playing a poor hand well. Oh, and next time, don't lie to the nice men from the SEC.
I'm being mean, i know. Truthfuly, I've been bugged all day by a dream I had lasr night. It involved an old college..agem...friend. I dreamt I was camped out on her parents patio waiting for her. I knew i had been there a long time, and i could tell her parents were afraid of me. The kicker is that i knew she was married andnever returning to her parents house, yet I refused to leave. It has stuck with me all day, and is irritating me much more than it should. Truthfully, it shouldn'tirritate me at all. I can't understand why i am irked by so many silly things as of ate. I think i'm under way too much stress and uncertainty. Lord, I am glad it is Spring Break.
And I Hear Hirohito Wanted Dewey
North Korea Wants Kerry: There's an incentive to vote Democrat in November. You know the one thing we'd like to do in the world is make the most repressive regime on the planet happy, right? This, along with libya's about face on imost ts nuclear program is further evidence of the Bush Docrtrine's success. If that is "cowboy diplomacy," then I say, 'Yippie Kai Yay."
North Korea Wants Kerry: There's an incentive to vote Democrat in November. You know the one thing we'd like to do in the world is make the most repressive regime on the planet happy, right? This, along with libya's about face on imost ts nuclear program is further evidence of the Bush Docrtrine's success. If that is "cowboy diplomacy," then I say, 'Yippie Kai Yay."
Thursday, March 4, 2004
Nader's Ego Trip
Ralph Nader's Dark Alliance: In search of support for his candidacy, "...Nader has now jumped into bed with the ultrasectarian cult-racket formerly known as the New Alliance Party and its guru, Fred Newman" who "recruits and controls his followers through a brainwashing scheme baptized "social therapy," designed to create blind allegiance to Newman", and who has "dipped his rhetoric in the poisonous blood-libel of anti-Semitism, denouncing Jews as "storm troopers of decadent capitalism."
Ralph Nader's Dark Alliance: In search of support for his candidacy, "...Nader has now jumped into bed with the ultrasectarian cult-racket formerly known as the New Alliance Party and its guru, Fred Newman" who "recruits and controls his followers through a brainwashing scheme baptized "social therapy," designed to create blind allegiance to Newman", and who has "dipped his rhetoric in the poisonous blood-libel of anti-Semitism, denouncing Jews as "storm troopers of decadent capitalism."
Holy Frijoles!
It is currently 74 degrees and sunny in Virginia Beach. The weather is actually nice. For once. I wondered if i'd ever feel warm weather again. Now that i've jinxed it by mentioning it on my blog, there probabl won't be any more warm weather until I leave. regardess, I've been out enjoying it, but now I am about to head out for class.
I ran into NDK in the student union. We rarely meet up anymore, so i was glad to see her. I didn't mention her by name (I still haven't, actually) but she was one i hinted at in a earlier post as joining the Common Good and foregoing the bar exam. She has changed her mind, and now plans to join a corporate litigation firm in Florida. Good for her. I am glad to see her talents are going to be put to good use. She, her roomie, and I are planning to go out over Spring Break next week and have a last fling as unattached and uninhibited students before we get chained to families and mortgages. It should be fun.
It is currently 74 degrees and sunny in Virginia Beach. The weather is actually nice. For once. I wondered if i'd ever feel warm weather again. Now that i've jinxed it by mentioning it on my blog, there probabl won't be any more warm weather until I leave. regardess, I've been out enjoying it, but now I am about to head out for class.
I ran into NDK in the student union. We rarely meet up anymore, so i was glad to see her. I didn't mention her by name (I still haven't, actually) but she was one i hinted at in a earlier post as joining the Common Good and foregoing the bar exam. She has changed her mind, and now plans to join a corporate litigation firm in Florida. Good for her. I am glad to see her talents are going to be put to good use. She, her roomie, and I are planning to go out over Spring Break next week and have a last fling as unattached and uninhibited students before we get chained to families and mortgages. It should be fun.
Wednesday, March 3, 2004
Clinton As VP?
No, that's wishful thinking on the part of the New York Times. Clinton has been twice elected President. By the 22nd Amendment, he is not eligible to be elected President again. So, by the 12th Amendment, he is not eligible to be elected Vice-President Clinton is constitutionally ineligible to be VP. If he fills any other cabinet position, he is waived from the line of succession. Even there could be some legal way arounf it (anyone believe the Supreme Court would go for it?) there's no way that Kerry could risk choosing a VP candidate that might be found to be ineligible prior to the election. It would be quite embarassing to have to refashion your campaign. There is also that pesky fact that Clinton lied under oath, and has been professionally censured for it. There is the lurking bad blood over what appears to be a pattern of sexual harassment by Clinton that would make him unacceptable to many feminist voters. There is also the deep wedge between the liberal left and centrist Democrats that fueled Nader's 2000 campaign.
In other words, if you want a Clinton (and heaven help you if you do), you'll have to settle for Hillary.
No, that's wishful thinking on the part of the New York Times. Clinton has been twice elected President. By the 22nd Amendment, he is not eligible to be elected President again. So, by the 12th Amendment, he is not eligible to be elected Vice-President Clinton is constitutionally ineligible to be VP. If he fills any other cabinet position, he is waived from the line of succession. Even there could be some legal way arounf it (anyone believe the Supreme Court would go for it?) there's no way that Kerry could risk choosing a VP candidate that might be found to be ineligible prior to the election. It would be quite embarassing to have to refashion your campaign. There is also that pesky fact that Clinton lied under oath, and has been professionally censured for it. There is the lurking bad blood over what appears to be a pattern of sexual harassment by Clinton that would make him unacceptable to many feminist voters. There is also the deep wedge between the liberal left and centrist Democrats that fueled Nader's 2000 campaign.
In other words, if you want a Clinton (and heaven help you if you do), you'll have to settle for Hillary.
Talk About Ingrates
Bomb Plot Threatens French Rail System: Terrorists never met a better frend than France, and this is the thanks they get. The interesting part is on page two. The terrorists asked for $5.2 million - 1 million in euros and the rest in USD. Strange time to be preferring dollars over euros considering the strength of the euro v. the dollar. I imagine dollars would be easier to spend in many third world countries, if you want to escape with your ill-gotten gains. Dollars seem to be accepted nearly anywhere in the world, whereas euros probably haven't spread quite so far yet.
Bomb Plot Threatens French Rail System: Terrorists never met a better frend than France, and this is the thanks they get. The interesting part is on page two. The terrorists asked for $5.2 million - 1 million in euros and the rest in USD. Strange time to be preferring dollars over euros considering the strength of the euro v. the dollar. I imagine dollars would be easier to spend in many third world countries, if you want to escape with your ill-gotten gains. Dollars seem to be accepted nearly anywhere in the world, whereas euros probably haven't spread quite so far yet.
New Wave of Liberals
I talked with a fellow politico this morning after class about how parts of Oregon and new York are going to allow gay marriages. I speculate that this is a preview of the next generation of liberals. While they will have the same value system as their current brethren, how they go about their agenda will radically change. Those who came of age in the sixties say, "This law is unjust. Let's change it." Now the iphilosophy is, "This law is unjust. Let's ignore it." John Kerry is of the former school of thought; San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsoim is of the latter. if Kerry loses the presidency, expect to see the latter school of thought ascendant.
It's already happened, with the relatively moderate Gephardt being replaced by the shrill Pelosi as the House Democrat leader. Now, just as Dole's defeat in 1996 ended the World War II generation's hold on power, the hippie generation may be kicked out for something far worse. Farewell, rule of law. We hardly knew you.
I talked with a fellow politico this morning after class about how parts of Oregon and new York are going to allow gay marriages. I speculate that this is a preview of the next generation of liberals. While they will have the same value system as their current brethren, how they go about their agenda will radically change. Those who came of age in the sixties say, "This law is unjust. Let's change it." Now the iphilosophy is, "This law is unjust. Let's ignore it." John Kerry is of the former school of thought; San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsoim is of the latter. if Kerry loses the presidency, expect to see the latter school of thought ascendant.
It's already happened, with the relatively moderate Gephardt being replaced by the shrill Pelosi as the House Democrat leader. Now, just as Dole's defeat in 1996 ended the World War II generation's hold on power, the hippie generation may be kicked out for something far worse. Farewell, rule of law. We hardly knew you.
That's the Sound of Arteries Unclogging
McSupersizes to be Phased Out: The hamburger giant has started phasing out its trademark Supersize fries and drinks in its U.S. restaurants as part of an effort to simplify its menu and give customers choices that support a balanced lifestyle, a company spokesman said Tuesday. Of course, if you are eating at McDonalds, a balanced diet probably isn't all that important to you anyway.
McSupersizes to be Phased Out: The hamburger giant has started phasing out its trademark Supersize fries and drinks in its U.S. restaurants as part of an effort to simplify its menu and give customers choices that support a balanced lifestyle, a company spokesman said Tuesday. Of course, if you are eating at McDonalds, a balanced diet probably isn't all that important to you anyway.
Tuesday, March 2, 2004
Primarily Speaking
There are no surprises in Super Tuesday II. It's a Kerry blowout. Now that he's the de facto nominee, I will be waiting anxiously to discover when buyer's remorse will set in for the Democratic Party. Surely thre Vush campaign is ready to go after Kerry with both barrels. It should be easy, considering the poor success rate of Senators who have run for president. Explaining those inconsistent records because of backroom deals on votes/logeolling/etc can really kill them. it should be quite a bit of fun to watch. Anway, I don't expect Edwards to concede until tomorrow and I enjoyed the fact that Vermont still voted for Dean. I can appreciate those who vote their cpnscience, even when I never would have voted for him in a zillion years.
There are no surprises in Super Tuesday II. It's a Kerry blowout. Now that he's the de facto nominee, I will be waiting anxiously to discover when buyer's remorse will set in for the Democratic Party. Surely thre Vush campaign is ready to go after Kerry with both barrels. It should be easy, considering the poor success rate of Senators who have run for president. Explaining those inconsistent records because of backroom deals on votes/logeolling/etc can really kill them. it should be quite a bit of fun to watch. Anway, I don't expect Edwards to concede until tomorrow and I enjoyed the fact that Vermont still voted for Dean. I can appreciate those who vote their cpnscience, even when I never would have voted for him in a zillion years.
Monday, March 1, 2004
Change of Pace
Some didn't care for that last post. I did say in the above disclaimer tat anything and everything could show up here. Oh, well. I guess the axiom that if it interests you, it will interest someone else isn't a hard and fast rule. Heh heh. Anybody going to see one of those spider crabs in your sleep tomight?
I've done quite a bit of research on locating legal jobs in South Carolina. While I am still in the phase of applying for just about anything outside of corporate law (which is an ickey subject, let me tell you) I am narrowing it down to focus on the career I really want--criminal and civil litigation. It looks more and more like the solicitor's office is the best place for me. It would offer litigation experience, plus criminal aw logically flows: thedefendant is accused of a crime, there are three elements to the crime, prove all three down the line. Boom. Boom. Boom. Plus the appearances in court give privateemployersa chance to see you in action, whereas by going to a private firm, I'd be in a library for the entire first year and sitting second chair long thereafter. So, it's a short time sacrifice forlongterm gain.
Yes, I hope i gt fortunate with a private firm instead. But I'm a realist. Clients should appreciate that about me. I'm still hoping to land a job somewhere on the coast, although i spent the best years of my life in Columbia. I'll bet I'd feel right at home there. I'd better. There won't be any other homeonce I leave Virginia. Hold on--let me dwell on that lovely thought (Leave Virginia...leave Virginia.. ) Wow i feel better. Anyway, more on my future later as things become clear as mud.
Some didn't care for that last post. I did say in the above disclaimer tat anything and everything could show up here. Oh, well. I guess the axiom that if it interests you, it will interest someone else isn't a hard and fast rule. Heh heh. Anybody going to see one of those spider crabs in your sleep tomight?
I've done quite a bit of research on locating legal jobs in South Carolina. While I am still in the phase of applying for just about anything outside of corporate law (which is an ickey subject, let me tell you) I am narrowing it down to focus on the career I really want--criminal and civil litigation. It looks more and more like the solicitor's office is the best place for me. It would offer litigation experience, plus criminal aw logically flows: thedefendant is accused of a crime, there are three elements to the crime, prove all three down the line. Boom. Boom. Boom. Plus the appearances in court give privateemployersa chance to see you in action, whereas by going to a private firm, I'd be in a library for the entire first year and sitting second chair long thereafter. So, it's a short time sacrifice forlongterm gain.
Yes, I hope i gt fortunate with a private firm instead. But I'm a realist. Clients should appreciate that about me. I'm still hoping to land a job somewhere on the coast, although i spent the best years of my life in Columbia. I'll bet I'd feel right at home there. I'd better. There won't be any other homeonce I leave Virginia. Hold on--let me dwell on that lovely thought (Leave Virginia...leave Virginia.. ) Wow i feel better. Anyway, more on my future later as things become clear as mud.
Devil and the Deep Blue Sea
Deep Sea Fish: From the strange to the fascinating and the downright frightening, here is a page featuring various critters captured from beneath the ocean. Nifty stuff, but it may make you not want to go swimming. Ever.
Deep Sea Fish: From the strange to the fascinating and the downright frightening, here is a page featuring various critters captured from beneath the ocean. Nifty stuff, but it may make you not want to go swimming. Ever.
Sunday, February 29, 2004
Oscar Wrap Up
No surprises here. Return of the King was a shoo in to sweep. I am disappinted that Sofia Coppola didn't wi Best Director, though. Lost in Translation was a fantastic film and I assume her family name would carry her further than it did. The Academy likes dynasties, after all. At leasr she won for Best Original Screenplay In many ways, that is even more important than Best Director. Most screenplays are written by committee, which explains why movies are the way they are nowadays. But Translation was her baby all the way. She had to stare at a blank page all alone and make the story come alive. As one who has an interest in creative writing (classier than John Grisham's, thenkyew very much.) I admire that
I wish Seabiscuit had faired better. I loved that movie. Continuing on a theme, the author of the book suffers from chronic fatiguesyndrome, yet still founf the energy to write it. She's one who thinks writing is a calling, not a job. I have to admire that, as well.
All right. Return of the King I'll admit it--the line, "I can't carry the ring, but I can carry you." choked me up. Itwas a great movie and deserved the accolades it received. But what i am waiting for is Peter Jackson's next film. It's a remake of one of my all time favorite films: King Kong Out of all the film makers out there, I think Peter Jackson is the only one who can pull off the epic that the Eighth Wonder of the World should be.
Finally--and humorously--did you see Bill Murray's face when he lost to Sean "Fast Times at Ridgemont High" Penn? It was priceless. I'd be ticked off if I lost to Mr. Weapons Inspector, too.
No surprises here. Return of the King was a shoo in to sweep. I am disappinted that Sofia Coppola didn't wi Best Director, though. Lost in Translation was a fantastic film and I assume her family name would carry her further than it did. The Academy likes dynasties, after all. At leasr she won for Best Original Screenplay In many ways, that is even more important than Best Director. Most screenplays are written by committee, which explains why movies are the way they are nowadays. But Translation was her baby all the way. She had to stare at a blank page all alone and make the story come alive. As one who has an interest in creative writing (classier than John Grisham's, thenkyew very much.) I admire that
I wish Seabiscuit had faired better. I loved that movie. Continuing on a theme, the author of the book suffers from chronic fatiguesyndrome, yet still founf the energy to write it. She's one who thinks writing is a calling, not a job. I have to admire that, as well.
All right. Return of the King I'll admit it--the line, "I can't carry the ring, but I can carry you." choked me up. Itwas a great movie and deserved the accolades it received. But what i am waiting for is Peter Jackson's next film. It's a remake of one of my all time favorite films: King Kong Out of all the film makers out there, I think Peter Jackson is the only one who can pull off the epic that the Eighth Wonder of the World should be.
Finally--and humorously--did you see Bill Murray's face when he lost to Sean "Fast Times at Ridgemont High" Penn? It was priceless. I'd be ticked off if I lost to Mr. Weapons Inspector, too.
Sour Grapes
Dean Didn't Want to Be President: In different conversations and in different ways, according to several people who worked with him, Dean said at the peak of his popularity late last year that he never expected to rise so high, that he didn't like the intense scrutiny, that he had just wanted to make a difference. "I don't care about being president," he said. Any parent will recognise this as the usual 'I didn't want it anyway' routine most kids spout when they lose. "It's okay I didn't want to be Class President/Quaterback/etc anyway." If i were as Dean supporter, I'd be upset that $40 million went to his Dadaist experiment. (Registration required to read the Washington Post. It's annoying, but free)
Dean Didn't Want to Be President: In different conversations and in different ways, according to several people who worked with him, Dean said at the peak of his popularity late last year that he never expected to rise so high, that he didn't like the intense scrutiny, that he had just wanted to make a difference. "I don't care about being president," he said. Any parent will recognise this as the usual 'I didn't want it anyway' routine most kids spout when they lose. "It's okay I didn't want to be Class President/Quaterback/etc anyway." If i were as Dean supporter, I'd be upset that $40 million went to his Dadaist experiment. (Registration required to read the Washington Post. It's annoying, but free)
Saturday, February 28, 2004
I Admire Tenacity, But...
World's Most Stubborn Man Dies: He fell in his yard and insisted he was fine--for days. Happily the world's most accomdating woman survived. The two of them have some pretty sharp neighbors, too, huh?
World's Most Stubborn Man Dies: He fell in his yard and insisted he was fine--for days. Happily the world's most accomdating woman survived. The two of them have some pretty sharp neighbors, too, huh?
Gaming
I managed to waste an obscene amount of time today playing Mario Kart: Double Dash. How can you expect me to resist spending the afternoon with a game featuring a turtle as its best driver? I'm not made of stone, although it has been speculated that I have a heart of pure granite. I don't count that, of course. I did go grocery shopping, so I guess the day wasn't a total loss. But it's nice to see that Saturdays can still be fun regardless of your age, no?
Yes, I'm 27. Hush.
I managed to waste an obscene amount of time today playing Mario Kart: Double Dash. How can you expect me to resist spending the afternoon with a game featuring a turtle as its best driver? I'm not made of stone, although it has been speculated that I have a heart of pure granite. I don't count that, of course. I did go grocery shopping, so I guess the day wasn't a total loss. But it's nice to see that Saturdays can still be fun regardless of your age, no?
Yes, I'm 27. Hush.
Friday, February 27, 2004
Open House
I crashed aftr coming home from classes today for a lot longer than I expected. Almost three hours longer, in fact. Now I’m wide awake at the time of night that I’d normally be winding down or already conked out. It seems like a perfect time to update this puppy. It’s mostly the same old same old.
Sure enough, i was on the hot seat in Federal Courts for the second time in a week. For some reason, I seem to have a target on my back in that class. The subject is so theoretical and nebulous that I often can’t make heads or tails out of iy even as I’m analyzing it in front of everyone. At least most everyone else in the class is in the same boat that I am and the professor is sympathetic.
There was an open house in the Dean’s office all day long. I dropped by his office for moment, as the prevailing assumption is that virtually no other classmate would. Friday’s a bad day for such things, no? We had a short conversation regarding some of the issues I’ve been dealing with lately involving my injury and my mother’s death. I expressed my concern that I think I’ve been insulated from how much I’ve lost back home while being in Virginia. I’ve spent less than a week in South Carolina since Mother died last March. It’s going to be a new experience to go back there permanently. We prayer about things together, which was a nice touch.
This leads us to the bit where I crashed and thought happy thoughts in la la land for a few hours. It’s one of the virtues of Friday afternoon, now that I think about it.
I forgot to send in my Columbia House selection of the month for the fourth time in seven years and for the third time, I’ve been happy with my mistake. I’m currently playing thr spoils of my irresponsibility, Lonestar’s Greatest Hits. As sick as I am of hearing I’m Already There it’s even tolerable among the other gems on the CD. I especially like their cover of Walking in Memphis It’s quite good.
I think i’m going to head off and warp my little fragile little mind with a Mario Brothers video game.
I crashed aftr coming home from classes today for a lot longer than I expected. Almost three hours longer, in fact. Now I’m wide awake at the time of night that I’d normally be winding down or already conked out. It seems like a perfect time to update this puppy. It’s mostly the same old same old.
Sure enough, i was on the hot seat in Federal Courts for the second time in a week. For some reason, I seem to have a target on my back in that class. The subject is so theoretical and nebulous that I often can’t make heads or tails out of iy even as I’m analyzing it in front of everyone. At least most everyone else in the class is in the same boat that I am and the professor is sympathetic.
There was an open house in the Dean’s office all day long. I dropped by his office for moment, as the prevailing assumption is that virtually no other classmate would. Friday’s a bad day for such things, no? We had a short conversation regarding some of the issues I’ve been dealing with lately involving my injury and my mother’s death. I expressed my concern that I think I’ve been insulated from how much I’ve lost back home while being in Virginia. I’ve spent less than a week in South Carolina since Mother died last March. It’s going to be a new experience to go back there permanently. We prayer about things together, which was a nice touch.
This leads us to the bit where I crashed and thought happy thoughts in la la land for a few hours. It’s one of the virtues of Friday afternoon, now that I think about it.
I forgot to send in my Columbia House selection of the month for the fourth time in seven years and for the third time, I’ve been happy with my mistake. I’m currently playing thr spoils of my irresponsibility, Lonestar’s Greatest Hits. As sick as I am of hearing I’m Already There it’s even tolerable among the other gems on the CD. I especially like their cover of Walking in Memphis It’s quite good.
I think i’m going to head off and warp my little fragile little mind with a Mario Brothers video game.
It Was An Honest Mistake
Yesyrtday, U.S. Rep. Corinne Brown (D-FL) caused a stir with her attacks on the "racist white men" in the Bush Administration. The person she was attacking, Assistant Secretary of State Roger Noriega, is actually Hispanic. When this was pointed out, she replied "you all look alike to me." Will the Democrats denounce Rep. Brown for her ignorant and racist comment? Naaaah. You probably haven't even heard about the incident until now.
Yesyrtday, U.S. Rep. Corinne Brown (D-FL) caused a stir with her attacks on the "racist white men" in the Bush Administration. The person she was attacking, Assistant Secretary of State Roger Noriega, is actually Hispanic. When this was pointed out, she replied "you all look alike to me." Will the Democrats denounce Rep. Brown for her ignorant and racist comment? Naaaah. You probably haven't even heard about the incident until now.
Thursday, February 26, 2004
Pack Your Bags
Because the United States has lifted the travel ban on that lovely paradise known as Libya. It should be a popular destination for those who enjoy sand and loney terrorists. I don't think the babes wear burkas, either, but I could be wrong. Anyway, I bought my ticket. Haven't you? Oh, I'll betcha they get a Starbucks before the end of summer. You don't want to miss that.
Blogging was nonexistant today because I was out having a blast. More fun than a Libyan holiday, even. Things should return to status quo once lthereal world creeps back in.
Because the United States has lifted the travel ban on that lovely paradise known as Libya. It should be a popular destination for those who enjoy sand and loney terrorists. I don't think the babes wear burkas, either, but I could be wrong. Anyway, I bought my ticket. Haven't you? Oh, I'll betcha they get a Starbucks before the end of summer. You don't want to miss that.
Blogging was nonexistant today because I was out having a blast. More fun than a Libyan holiday, even. Things should return to status quo once lthereal world creeps back in.
Wednesday, February 25, 2004
For the Fans of Irony
As if that last post wasn't enough to make you keil over. Aibohphobia is the fear of palindromes. Now, my question is how do you go about informing the poor person who has it without him running off screaming into the night? Whoever is in charge of naming phobias has a twisted mind. I'll bet there's a name for that, too.
As if that last post wasn't enough to make you keil over. Aibohphobia is the fear of palindromes. Now, my question is how do you go about informing the poor person who has it without him running off screaming into the night? Whoever is in charge of naming phobias has a twisted mind. I'll bet there's a name for that, too.
So It Is NASCAR Nation Now?
Go to Ask the White House and your question will be answered by a top administration official. Scratch that. It's an election year that may turn on NASCAR dads' votes, so for now your questions will be answered by NASCAR driver Michael Waltrip. Say, do you think Tony Blair should have a Bend It Like Beckham section on his web page, too? Nah. It would probably end up in a screaming match just like the real Prime Minister's Questions in Parliament.
Go to Ask the White House and your question will be answered by a top administration official. Scratch that. It's an election year that may turn on NASCAR dads' votes, so for now your questions will be answered by NASCAR driver Michael Waltrip. Say, do you think Tony Blair should have a Bend It Like Beckham section on his web page, too? Nah. It would probably end up in a screaming match just like the real Prime Minister's Questions in Parliament.
Tuesday, February 24, 2004
Random Thoughts
Just some quick ramblings, as I am bleary eyed beyond belief. My professor for tomight's class decided to describe his first job, buying his fisrt house, and how his salary grew exponentially within a three year period to pay for it. What did this have to do with Pre-Trial litigation? Diddly that I could tell. But since he used the actual dollar amounts (tacky, if I may say so) it seemed like mostly ego stroking. But hey, I gave the cat diary the benefit of the doubt, so why not a professor?
President Bush came out in gavor of a Constitutional amendment banning gay marriage. This was largely done to put Democrats on the defensive. Now they have to reconcile being against both gay marriage and this amendment. That civil union cop out won't fly. Civil unions are gay marriages without the official title. If civil unions are condoned, how long will it be before some put forth an equal protection claim that it should be called a marriage just like everyone else's? Regardless, the President hss nothing to do with amending the Constsitution. Thr amendment has to be passed by two-thirds of both Houses of Congress and ratified by three-fouths of the states. A daunting task indeed. I wonder if our country is too historically illiterate to know what happened to ancient Greek society when faced with a similar question and it chose poorly.
I need to skim Federal Courts and stroll off to la la land.
Just some quick ramblings, as I am bleary eyed beyond belief. My professor for tomight's class decided to describe his first job, buying his fisrt house, and how his salary grew exponentially within a three year period to pay for it. What did this have to do with Pre-Trial litigation? Diddly that I could tell. But since he used the actual dollar amounts (tacky, if I may say so) it seemed like mostly ego stroking. But hey, I gave the cat diary the benefit of the doubt, so why not a professor?
President Bush came out in gavor of a Constitutional amendment banning gay marriage. This was largely done to put Democrats on the defensive. Now they have to reconcile being against both gay marriage and this amendment. That civil union cop out won't fly. Civil unions are gay marriages without the official title. If civil unions are condoned, how long will it be before some put forth an equal protection claim that it should be called a marriage just like everyone else's? Regardless, the President hss nothing to do with amending the Constsitution. Thr amendment has to be passed by two-thirds of both Houses of Congress and ratified by three-fouths of the states. A daunting task indeed. I wonder if our country is too historically illiterate to know what happened to ancient Greek society when faced with a similar question and it chose poorly.
I need to skim Federal Courts and stroll off to la la land.
All Ya Gotta Do is Ask
The Hobbesian Conservative has expressed trepidation about his lofty perch among the law blogs. As I do not wish to force him into a life of vodka over indulgence, I have relocated him to the grab bag section. I accomodate all my fans.
The Hobbesian Conservative has expressed trepidation about his lofty perch among the law blogs. As I do not wish to force him into a life of vodka over indulgence, I have relocated him to the grab bag section. I accomodate all my fans.
Maybe ThIs Whole Blogging Thing is Getting Out of Hand
Ripley's Blog: I see three possibilities here. First, this is a joke that you smirk at once, and never think of again. Second, it's a brilliant commentary on the lack of substance many blogs contain. Finally, it is run by someone with way too much time on his or her hands. Maybe a combination. For the record, I smirked once and will give the benefit of the doubt on the other two.
Ripley's Blog: I see three possibilities here. First, this is a joke that you smirk at once, and never think of again. Second, it's a brilliant commentary on the lack of substance many blogs contain. Finally, it is run by someone with way too much time on his or her hands. Maybe a combination. For the record, I smirked once and will give the benefit of the doubt on the other two.
Monday, February 23, 2004
I'm the Finger On the Pulse of Legal Education
Then again, maybe I'm not. I imagine he most disappointed visitor to my blog came from this Google search. Sorry, pal. Be careful about making those "appeal to authority" logical fallacies when making a big decision on graduate legal education.
Then again, maybe I'm not. I imagine he most disappointed visitor to my blog came from this Google search. Sorry, pal. Be careful about making those "appeal to authority" logical fallacies when making a big decision on graduate legal education.
Stick a Fork in It
My article is done. More precisely, I have turned it in. It actually has to make it through another round of editors, so it is quite likely that I'll be burning the midnight oil yet again again making changes. The good news is that the entire human rights themed issue of the Regent Journal of International Law must be at the printer by March 15. I can't be given too much of a runaround with that definite a schedule.
My article is done. More precisely, I have turned it in. It actually has to make it through another round of editors, so it is quite likely that I'll be burning the midnight oil yet again again making changes. The good news is that the entire human rights themed issue of the Regent Journal of International Law must be at the printer by March 15. I can't be given too much of a runaround with that definite a schedule.
Sunday, February 22, 2004
But...But That Could Lead to President Pamela Anderson
Schwarzenegger: Let Foreign-Born Seek White House: Does he makea compelling argument? Not really. The foreign born statesmen he mentions (Kissinger, Albright) both served as Secretary of State. They specialized in foreign policy, not executive leadership. I'm am trying to recall if there have been many foreign born politicians high profile enough to have ever run for president. Currently, Gov. Granholm, born in Canada, would be on Kerry's wishlist (yes, in more ways than one. Get your mind out of th egutter.) so Arnie's wish isn't too farfetched. i wouldn't hold my breath waiting for it.
Oh, and Arnie claims he has never thought about running for president. He has. in fact, maintained his Austrian citizenship all this time. It has long been rumored that he has done so to keep open the possibility of running for president there. With the right-wing shift there under President Hader's government, it didn't seem like too much of a longshot. It looks like Arnie has set his sights a little higher these days.
Schwarzenegger: Let Foreign-Born Seek White House: Does he makea compelling argument? Not really. The foreign born statesmen he mentions (Kissinger, Albright) both served as Secretary of State. They specialized in foreign policy, not executive leadership. I'm am trying to recall if there have been many foreign born politicians high profile enough to have ever run for president. Currently, Gov. Granholm, born in Canada, would be on Kerry's wishlist (yes, in more ways than one. Get your mind out of th egutter.) so Arnie's wish isn't too farfetched. i wouldn't hold my breath waiting for it.
Oh, and Arnie claims he has never thought about running for president. He has. in fact, maintained his Austrian citizenship all this time. It has long been rumored that he has done so to keep open the possibility of running for president there. With the right-wing shift there under President Hader's government, it didn't seem like too much of a longshot. It looks like Arnie has set his sights a little higher these days.
Re: Article
I'm almost finished editing my article. The job noew is really deciding which editorial suggestions to follow and which to toss. The editor who first got my submission is a newl minted second year student who managed to iss the entire point of the article.
You see, it's about 'comfort women." These are mostly Korean women who were forced into brothels to serve at the pleasure of the Japanese Imperial Army. The Tokyo Tribunal never addressed forced sexual slavery as a war crime, even though thousands of women had been enslaved and brutalized. Japan has considered the matter closed as of the peace treaty signing. My article examines the international law principles existant at the time and the humanitarian treaties Japan was a party to in order to establish it's liability regardless. That part was successful.
But my article further details how a number of former "comfort women" have filed suit in the United States under the Alien Torts Claims Liability Act. That was a useless move, as Japan refused to forgo its soveriegn immunity, as any logical person could foresee. I took the opportunity to subtley criticize the ATCA. It's bad in a number of ways, such as how it would effect international relations, how it would entangle our courts in foreign matters, and how our beliefs and values may not gel with other countries. This was a rabbit trail for the "comfort women" and I tried to make it appear so.
The editor wants me to alter that, and make an argument in favor of ATCA. No can do. The point of the article is that Japan has violated internation law and internation pressure should force them to answer for it. The U'S. courts shouldn't be a venue for foreign claims anymore than Belgium could indict members of the Bush Administration for perceived "war crimes," as they tried to do months ago.
I may have to make a case, but I'm not changing the position on ATCA.
I'm almost finished editing my article. The job noew is really deciding which editorial suggestions to follow and which to toss. The editor who first got my submission is a newl minted second year student who managed to iss the entire point of the article.
You see, it's about 'comfort women." These are mostly Korean women who were forced into brothels to serve at the pleasure of the Japanese Imperial Army. The Tokyo Tribunal never addressed forced sexual slavery as a war crime, even though thousands of women had been enslaved and brutalized. Japan has considered the matter closed as of the peace treaty signing. My article examines the international law principles existant at the time and the humanitarian treaties Japan was a party to in order to establish it's liability regardless. That part was successful.
But my article further details how a number of former "comfort women" have filed suit in the United States under the Alien Torts Claims Liability Act. That was a useless move, as Japan refused to forgo its soveriegn immunity, as any logical person could foresee. I took the opportunity to subtley criticize the ATCA. It's bad in a number of ways, such as how it would effect international relations, how it would entangle our courts in foreign matters, and how our beliefs and values may not gel with other countries. This was a rabbit trail for the "comfort women" and I tried to make it appear so.
The editor wants me to alter that, and make an argument in favor of ATCA. No can do. The point of the article is that Japan has violated internation law and internation pressure should force them to answer for it. The U'S. courts shouldn't be a venue for foreign claims anymore than Belgium could indict members of the Bush Administration for perceived "war crimes," as they tried to do months ago.
I may have to make a case, but I'm not changing the position on ATCA.
Saturday, February 21, 2004
Is Nader Running? One Can Only Hope
Nader Will Announce 2004 Presidential Bid Plans This Sunday: All signs point to yes. Surely he won't go on TV just to say no. It's interesting that this news item refers to Nader as an egomaniac just before saying that DNC Chairman Terry McAuliffe pretty much groveled to convince him to stay out. That wouldcertainlyappeal to an overblown ego. Nader will be without a party, making fundraising and getting on the ballot in all fifty states tough, but this is still bad news for Democrats. Nader has a loyal following, and I'll bet many Dean refugees will jump into his corner.
Nader Will Announce 2004 Presidential Bid Plans This Sunday: All signs point to yes. Surely he won't go on TV just to say no. It's interesting that this news item refers to Nader as an egomaniac just before saying that DNC Chairman Terry McAuliffe pretty much groveled to convince him to stay out. That wouldcertainlyappeal to an overblown ego. Nader will be without a party, making fundraising and getting on the ballot in all fifty states tough, but this is still bad news for Democrats. Nader has a loyal following, and I'll bet many Dean refugees will jump into his corner.
Neither Seen Nor Heard
Convention Plan Puts Protesters Blocks Away: I'm all for protest, and one of the few things I dislike about Bush is the "management" of dissent crowds at his appearances. It's one of the only legitimate complaints Democrats have against Bush. Now, they no longer have the moral authority to complaint about that, either. At this point in history, Democrats are the weakest they have ever been. They have lost the White House, both Houses of Congress, the majority of Governorships (including the largest states), most state legislatures, and there is a conservative majority on the Supreme Court (or so I'm told.) They really don't need to weaken their position further by alienating their power base--indenty politics backers who know nothing but protest and aging hippies who haven't gotten over the Summer of Love. Have you no shame, Sen. Daschle?
Convention Plan Puts Protesters Blocks Away: I'm all for protest, and one of the few things I dislike about Bush is the "management" of dissent crowds at his appearances. It's one of the only legitimate complaints Democrats have against Bush. Now, they no longer have the moral authority to complaint about that, either. At this point in history, Democrats are the weakest they have ever been. They have lost the White House, both Houses of Congress, the majority of Governorships (including the largest states), most state legislatures, and there is a conservative majority on the Supreme Court (or so I'm told.) They really don't need to weaken their position further by alienating their power base--indenty politics backers who know nothing but protest and aging hippies who haven't gotten over the Summer of Love. Have you no shame, Sen. Daschle?
Friday, February 20, 2004
Couldn't We Finish the 2004 Election Frist..er..I Mean First?
Frist May Make 2008 Presidential Run This really isn't much of a surprise. In fact, I half expected Frist might replace Cheney on the ticket in 2004 id Cheney's negatives got to be an issue. (Cheney would retire for 'health reasons," naturally.) It still may happen. I could see Frist taking the VP spot in 2006 or so as an opportunity to look "presidential." It was clear the GOP was grooming Frist, since he was the clear choice to replace Trent Lott as Majority Leader after Lott's snafu at Strom's birthday bash. The Senate is a good old bys club, and everyone minds the tules. Seniority is the ruile of the day, except when big plans are in store. Bear in mind, then, that Sen. Frist is a relative newcomer to the Senate.
If health care continues to be the big issue that it is now (and it will be) look for the former heart surgeon to make a big splash.
Frist May Make 2008 Presidential Run This really isn't much of a surprise. In fact, I half expected Frist might replace Cheney on the ticket in 2004 id Cheney's negatives got to be an issue. (Cheney would retire for 'health reasons," naturally.) It still may happen. I could see Frist taking the VP spot in 2006 or so as an opportunity to look "presidential." It was clear the GOP was grooming Frist, since he was the clear choice to replace Trent Lott as Majority Leader after Lott's snafu at Strom's birthday bash. The Senate is a good old bys club, and everyone minds the tules. Seniority is the ruile of the day, except when big plans are in store. Bear in mind, then, that Sen. Frist is a relative newcomer to the Senate.
If health care continues to be the big issue that it is now (and it will be) look for the former heart surgeon to make a big splash.
Housekeepng
Looking back over the last few days of entries, I've discovered some awful grammar and spelling mistakes. Most are the result of hit-and-run posting with no time to proofread. I've gone back and fixed the most glaring ones. I'm sure there are more, but I'm going to move on from this point unless I run across an error that is just way too humiliating to let go. I'll try to be more careful in the future. An illiterate writer is no fun, although Christopher Hitchens has proven one can still make a decent living despite. I've also updated the links sections. No surprises that some errors crept in there, too.
Looking back over the last few days of entries, I've discovered some awful grammar and spelling mistakes. Most are the result of hit-and-run posting with no time to proofread. I've gone back and fixed the most glaring ones. I'm sure there are more, but I'm going to move on from this point unless I run across an error that is just way too humiliating to let go. I'll try to be more careful in the future. An illiterate writer is no fun, although Christopher Hitchens has proven one can still make a decent living despite. I've also updated the links sections. No surprises that some errors crept in there, too.
Thursday, February 19, 2004
Huh?
Shot By a Loose Conan: A Canadian columnist suspects Conan O'Brien is a CIA agent. If so, then Triumph the Insult Dog is the next Erma Bombeck. What are our neighbors to the north smoking?
Shot By a Loose Conan: A Canadian columnist suspects Conan O'Brien is a CIA agent. If so, then Triumph the Insult Dog is the next Erma Bombeck. What are our neighbors to the north smoking?
Wednesday, February 18, 2004
Blog Bankrolling
Blogs Pump Bucks into Campaigns: Blogs and other online resources are becoming a big source of grassroots fundraising. It's not exactly the legacy he wanted, but it was Howard Dean who opened the door to the concept.
Blogs Pump Bucks into Campaigns: Blogs and other online resources are becoming a big source of grassroots fundraising. It's not exactly the legacy he wanted, but it was Howard Dean who opened the door to the concept.
The Red and the Blue
Zogby Electoral Poll: The results of this poll show why the VP selection may be a bigger factor than normal. Just as in 2000, the country is almost evenly divided. Bush leads in the red states and Kerry leads in the blue carried by Gore. While there is still plenty of time for that to change, anything could put one over the top at any time. The question is who will have the edge come November?
Zogby Electoral Poll: The results of this poll show why the VP selection may be a bigger factor than normal. Just as in 2000, the country is almost evenly divided. Bush leads in the red states and Kerry leads in the blue carried by Gore. While there is still plenty of time for that to change, anything could put one over the top at any time. The question is who will have the edge come November?
VP Poker
It seems fair to say that John Kerry will be the Democratic nominee for President. While Edwards' surge last night in Wisconsin created a buzz, he still only came in second. It is true he will do well in Georgia, but New York and California, the two biggest prizes remaining , are clearly in Kerry's column. Now keery has to start thinking about who to select as his Vice Presidential candidate. Frankly, i can't see how anyone can add much to the ticket. look at the top choices:
John Edwards-- Sure he's popular among Democrats, but his biggest appeal would be the possibility of making inroads in the South. Unfortunately for him, the South is solidly Bush country. He couldn't even carry his home state.
Howard Dean--Okay. He's not even a remote possibility. I just wanted to mention that the kook finally got the message that it's over. Everybody now: Sha na na, na na na...
Hillary Clinton--She might help create wider margins of victory in states Kerry will already win, but won't add any new ones into the wins column. One suspectsshe doesn't want Kerry to win, leaving the field open for 2008. I can't pictue her playing second fiddle (again) until 2012.
Max Cleland--War hero, as far as De,ocrats are concerned. He actually lost his limbs in a non-combat accident. Still, he couldn't carry Georgia in his Senate reelection campaign, so forget any leeway in the South.
Bob Graham--Florida is the only southern state that is competitive, but no one is enthusiastic about Graham.
Dick Gephardt--Might please the unions, but they'll vote Democrat regardless of who runs. Plus age is a factor. After missing out on the Presidency twice and never being House Speaker, playing second fiddle can't be appealing.
Bill Richardson--He's Hispanic, which is a huge block of votes. The problem is that Hispanic voters often espuse traditional Catholic values, which is more in tune with conservatives. Regardless, I think curently Richardson has got to be the top choice.
The only thing certain at this point is the uncertainty. Would anyone have said Dick Cheney and Joe Leiberman in 2000? Who saw that coming?
It seems fair to say that John Kerry will be the Democratic nominee for President. While Edwards' surge last night in Wisconsin created a buzz, he still only came in second. It is true he will do well in Georgia, but New York and California, the two biggest prizes remaining , are clearly in Kerry's column. Now keery has to start thinking about who to select as his Vice Presidential candidate. Frankly, i can't see how anyone can add much to the ticket. look at the top choices:
John Edwards-- Sure he's popular among Democrats, but his biggest appeal would be the possibility of making inroads in the South. Unfortunately for him, the South is solidly Bush country. He couldn't even carry his home state.
Howard Dean--Okay. He's not even a remote possibility. I just wanted to mention that the kook finally got the message that it's over. Everybody now: Sha na na, na na na...
Hillary Clinton--She might help create wider margins of victory in states Kerry will already win, but won't add any new ones into the wins column. One suspectsshe doesn't want Kerry to win, leaving the field open for 2008. I can't pictue her playing second fiddle (again) until 2012.
Max Cleland--War hero, as far as De,ocrats are concerned. He actually lost his limbs in a non-combat accident. Still, he couldn't carry Georgia in his Senate reelection campaign, so forget any leeway in the South.
Bob Graham--Florida is the only southern state that is competitive, but no one is enthusiastic about Graham.
Dick Gephardt--Might please the unions, but they'll vote Democrat regardless of who runs. Plus age is a factor. After missing out on the Presidency twice and never being House Speaker, playing second fiddle can't be appealing.
Bill Richardson--He's Hispanic, which is a huge block of votes. The problem is that Hispanic voters often espuse traditional Catholic values, which is more in tune with conservatives. Regardless, I think curently Richardson has got to be the top choice.
The only thing certain at this point is the uncertainty. Would anyone have said Dick Cheney and Joe Leiberman in 2000? Who saw that coming?
Tuesday, February 17, 2004
Changing Horses in Midstream II
Returning visitors will take note of the new color scheme. It has been brought to my attention on more than one occasion that the old scheme was identical to Professor Wagner's Ninomania. As I loathe to be unorginal, I have decided to go with basic black. Nifty, no? Please don't be in any hurry to point out any blogs that go with the new scheme, or I'll just have to go postal.
The new Civil Pretrial professor is going to turn the class into the practical experience I was hoping it would be. Not only that, but he is dispensing with the Virginia rules in favor of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure. Bravo. I am now officially satisfied with all of my classes. Scratch that. I am somewhat depressed that I have to waste blog space talking about them. At least I'm not a whiney sixteen year old goth showing off my jadedness.
I haven't worked on my article yet. I need to do that soon. It's a doozy of a job.
Returning visitors will take note of the new color scheme. It has been brought to my attention on more than one occasion that the old scheme was identical to Professor Wagner's Ninomania. As I loathe to be unorginal, I have decided to go with basic black. Nifty, no? Please don't be in any hurry to point out any blogs that go with the new scheme, or I'll just have to go postal.
The new Civil Pretrial professor is going to turn the class into the practical experience I was hoping it would be. Not only that, but he is dispensing with the Virginia rules in favor of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure. Bravo. I am now officially satisfied with all of my classes. Scratch that. I am somewhat depressed that I have to waste blog space talking about them. At least I'm not a whiney sixteen year old goth showing off my jadedness.
I haven't worked on my article yet. I need to do that soon. It's a doozy of a job.
Monday, February 16, 2004
Speak of the Devil
Vote France Off the Island: The Thomas Friedman column I mentioned below is posted online. This is the one that prompted me to look back on my materials regarding United Nations Security Council reform. Nice to know I'm not the only person who thinks India should replace France, athough a decent argument could be made for Japan, as well.
Vote France Off the Island: The Thomas Friedman column I mentioned below is posted online. This is the one that prompted me to look back on my materials regarding United Nations Security Council reform. Nice to know I'm not the only person who thinks India should replace France, athough a decent argument could be made for Japan, as well.
No Comfort Zone
It has snowed yet again. Rather than sound like a broken record, I'll refrain from waxing bitter on how much I dislike Virginia weather. The good thing is that the snow canceled classes this morning. That meant no Federal Courts today, but it also means there will be a make up class at some point. Just like last Friday, it will probably mean two hours early some morning. You just can’t look forward to that.
My meeting with the higher up editors wasn’t canceled, however. My “comfort women” article is pretty clean, but they would like for me to redraft a paragraphs to increase the flow of the piece. I have until Monday in order to fix everything, so that probably means my weekend will be largely shot. Knowing me, virtually every sentence will get a makeover. But like I said last post, whatever it takes to publish, that’s what i’m going to do.
I sent off a check to the BARBRI bar review program today. The expense of studying law never seems to end, whether it’s financially, emotionally, or physically.
I did have more free time today than I normally do, I read some of Thomas L. Friedman’s Longitudes and Attitudes. It’s a collection of his columns for the New York Times spanning September 11, 2001 to Operation: Iraqi Freedom. Friedman specializes in writing about the Middle East, and this book is a fascinating look at the turbulent region in this turbulent time. Reading it renews twinges of international law and relations. Too bad I’m going to wind up some ambulance chaser in the middle of South Carolina instead.
Reading did prompt me to sort through some old files on my laptop to find the research I’d done on reforming the United Nations Security Council. I never did get to write that article, and from looking back, I think it’s good that I didn’t. I think one of my best suggestions was booting France off the Security Council and replacing it with India, Japan, or Brazil. It seem that I might have been riding the “Freedom Fries” wave just a little too enthusiastically. That does not a legal scholar make, no?
It has snowed yet again. Rather than sound like a broken record, I'll refrain from waxing bitter on how much I dislike Virginia weather. The good thing is that the snow canceled classes this morning. That meant no Federal Courts today, but it also means there will be a make up class at some point. Just like last Friday, it will probably mean two hours early some morning. You just can’t look forward to that.
My meeting with the higher up editors wasn’t canceled, however. My “comfort women” article is pretty clean, but they would like for me to redraft a paragraphs to increase the flow of the piece. I have until Monday in order to fix everything, so that probably means my weekend will be largely shot. Knowing me, virtually every sentence will get a makeover. But like I said last post, whatever it takes to publish, that’s what i’m going to do.
I sent off a check to the BARBRI bar review program today. The expense of studying law never seems to end, whether it’s financially, emotionally, or physically.
I did have more free time today than I normally do, I read some of Thomas L. Friedman’s Longitudes and Attitudes. It’s a collection of his columns for the New York Times spanning September 11, 2001 to Operation: Iraqi Freedom. Friedman specializes in writing about the Middle East, and this book is a fascinating look at the turbulent region in this turbulent time. Reading it renews twinges of international law and relations. Too bad I’m going to wind up some ambulance chaser in the middle of South Carolina instead.
Reading did prompt me to sort through some old files on my laptop to find the research I’d done on reforming the United Nations Security Council. I never did get to write that article, and from looking back, I think it’s good that I didn’t. I think one of my best suggestions was booting France off the Security Council and replacing it with India, Japan, or Brazil. It seem that I might have been riding the “Freedom Fries” wave just a little too enthusiastically. That does not a legal scholar make, no?
Sunday, February 15, 2004
Intolerable Cruelty
I vegged out this afternoon and watched Intolerable Cruelty. It's a pretty forgettable movie, but there were a few laugh out loud moments, especialy Billy Bob Thornton. It's too bad his role was so small. He plays a fantastic Southern caricature whenever he is allowed to go wild with it. Clooney was trying a little too hard to play the smarmy divortrce lawyer, and Zeta-Jones just didn't come across as the golddigger her character was supposed to be. Maybe id the plot had been fleshed out more, the movie would have been more enjoyable. I expect better from the guys who gave us Raising Arizona.
Tomorrow, I have a meeting with the higher up editors regarding the changes that need to be made in order to finalize my article for publication. What do you want to bet I have to butcher it? Actually, at this point I couldn't care less about anysense of creative integrity. if they ask me to put Henny Youngman one liners in, I'd do it just to get the thing published. I do not look forward to any major overhauls of the article.
I read my Federal Courts assignment earlier today. It was a Supreme Court case regarding state sovereigm immunity. As i was trudging through, it dawned on me (not for the first time, mind you) that I am going to spend a large chunk of my life handling thr three D's-dog bites, divorces, and DUIs. Doesn't it seem odd to be studying something as high concept as sovereign immunity at this point? Am I losing perspective here in the waning days of my studies? i wonder if I am also losing myself in a maelstrom of cynicism.
I vegged out this afternoon and watched Intolerable Cruelty. It's a pretty forgettable movie, but there were a few laugh out loud moments, especialy Billy Bob Thornton. It's too bad his role was so small. He plays a fantastic Southern caricature whenever he is allowed to go wild with it. Clooney was trying a little too hard to play the smarmy divortrce lawyer, and Zeta-Jones just didn't come across as the golddigger her character was supposed to be. Maybe id the plot had been fleshed out more, the movie would have been more enjoyable. I expect better from the guys who gave us Raising Arizona.
Tomorrow, I have a meeting with the higher up editors regarding the changes that need to be made in order to finalize my article for publication. What do you want to bet I have to butcher it? Actually, at this point I couldn't care less about anysense of creative integrity. if they ask me to put Henny Youngman one liners in, I'd do it just to get the thing published. I do not look forward to any major overhauls of the article.
I read my Federal Courts assignment earlier today. It was a Supreme Court case regarding state sovereigm immunity. As i was trudging through, it dawned on me (not for the first time, mind you) that I am going to spend a large chunk of my life handling thr three D's-dog bites, divorces, and DUIs. Doesn't it seem odd to be studying something as high concept as sovereign immunity at this point? Am I losing perspective here in the waning days of my studies? i wonder if I am also losing myself in a maelstrom of cynicism.
Saturday, February 14, 2004
That's Encouraging, No?
New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson, whose mother is Mexican and resides in Mexico City, is increasingly talked about as Kerry's running mate to attract the expanding Latino vote. Kerry-Richardson would be the first national Democratic ticket without a Southerner since Walter Mondale and Geraldine Ferraro lost 49 of 50 states in 1984.
New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson, whose mother is Mexican and resides in Mexico City, is increasingly talked about as Kerry's running mate to attract the expanding Latino vote. Kerry-Richardson would be the first national Democratic ticket without a Southerner since Walter Mondale and Geraldine Ferraro lost 49 of 50 states in 1984.
Friday, February 13, 2004
Good Run of Bad Luck
As I predicted last night, I was called on in Federal Courts today. I had to fumble through yet another case. That makes twice this week. Surely that violates the cruel and unusual punishment prohibition of the Eighth Amendment. What’s worse is car was covered with ice this morning. Even the door was stuck. I was outside, shivering my rear end off while scraping the windshield and prying the door open with a cake knife. This was fyrher complicated by the fact that I had just cleaned my glasses in a rysh, so the lenseswere still damp. Yep, they froze over, too.
I gave a Valentine’s gift of a teddy bear to KDR. I knew she wasn’t really expecting it, and her reaction was priceless. I propped it up in front her books when she wasn’t looking. She jumped when she turned around to see it.
“He’s homeless. Would you like to have him?” I said. Ah, you should have been there. Like I said, it was priceless.
We had a power blackout earlier this afternoon for nearly an hour. It was probably just a reminder that today is Friday the 13th. Miraculously, nothing really bad happened. I assume it’s because my luck is so rotten most of the time, Friday the 13th can’t be that bad for me. It must be some balance of te universe sort of thing. Any metaphysics gurus want to tackle that one for me?
As I predicted last night, I was called on in Federal Courts today. I had to fumble through yet another case. That makes twice this week. Surely that violates the cruel and unusual punishment prohibition of the Eighth Amendment. What’s worse is car was covered with ice this morning. Even the door was stuck. I was outside, shivering my rear end off while scraping the windshield and prying the door open with a cake knife. This was fyrher complicated by the fact that I had just cleaned my glasses in a rysh, so the lenseswere still damp. Yep, they froze over, too.
I gave a Valentine’s gift of a teddy bear to KDR. I knew she wasn’t really expecting it, and her reaction was priceless. I propped it up in front her books when she wasn’t looking. She jumped when she turned around to see it.
“He’s homeless. Would you like to have him?” I said. Ah, you should have been there. Like I said, it was priceless.
We had a power blackout earlier this afternoon for nearly an hour. It was probably just a reminder that today is Friday the 13th. Miraculously, nothing really bad happened. I assume it’s because my luck is so rotten most of the time, Friday the 13th can’t be that bad for me. It must be some balance of te universe sort of thing. Any metaphysics gurus want to tackle that one for me?
Tax Policy
The results of a tax policy generator: I'm not entirely surewhat to make of my results. This test is skewered in one direction or another. It's interesting nonetheless. Try it yourself: Tax Policy.
The results of a tax policy generator: I'm not entirely surewhat to make of my results. This test is skewered in one direction or another. It's interesting nonetheless. Try it yourself: Tax Policy.
Thursday, February 12, 2004
Raising the Bar
I was still awake at 3:00 AM last night talking to Pete and one of his classmates. If Pete hadn't hinted he needed to go to bed, our guest wouldn't have left until daylight. You've got to love MPA students. They don'tseem to have a care in the world. Do they even go to class? This fellow has caught the lawschool bug, but I've gotten the distinct impression it is more out of a fear of the real world than any true desire to practice law.
Speaking of which, I have discoveredseveral other classmates who ae opting to take public service jobs and forgo the bar altogether. This is cannot figure out to save my soul. Maybe they do feel a calling elsewhere, but at leasst take the bar. If for no other reason you can draft an estae plan or contract every now and then to supplement your income. There is no way I would have gone through all of this ordeal and not practice law. i can't fathom why someone would.
It is true that a good many of my classmates have been attracted to the Common Good. That's an attempt to create a political party/interest good that is less conservative than the Christian Coalition. I've only had brief encounters with the group, but i sense its lack of focus. The group's leaders are too idealistic about how an interest group should work. They espouse positive message, but they are not willing to take some of the necessary steps to make it in the political arena. They need a Ralph Reed, but they discourage anyone who might step into that role. I'm not optimistic about this group. I'll have to stick my allegiance with the GOP.
Actually, I really just think I'm disappointed by classmates I like chasing rainbows. It's selfish, I know, to worry about how these strange idealistic crusades reflect on Regent and my degree, but I do. Maybe i'm being cynical again about who does and does not have the juice to be lawyers. That's weighed on my mind as classmates opt out almost daily.
I have to prepare double for a make up Federal Courts class in the morning. I've got a feeling i'm going to be called on.
I was still awake at 3:00 AM last night talking to Pete and one of his classmates. If Pete hadn't hinted he needed to go to bed, our guest wouldn't have left until daylight. You've got to love MPA students. They don'tseem to have a care in the world. Do they even go to class? This fellow has caught the lawschool bug, but I've gotten the distinct impression it is more out of a fear of the real world than any true desire to practice law.
Speaking of which, I have discoveredseveral other classmates who ae opting to take public service jobs and forgo the bar altogether. This is cannot figure out to save my soul. Maybe they do feel a calling elsewhere, but at leasst take the bar. If for no other reason you can draft an estae plan or contract every now and then to supplement your income. There is no way I would have gone through all of this ordeal and not practice law. i can't fathom why someone would.
It is true that a good many of my classmates have been attracted to the Common Good. That's an attempt to create a political party/interest good that is less conservative than the Christian Coalition. I've only had brief encounters with the group, but i sense its lack of focus. The group's leaders are too idealistic about how an interest group should work. They espouse positive message, but they are not willing to take some of the necessary steps to make it in the political arena. They need a Ralph Reed, but they discourage anyone who might step into that role. I'm not optimistic about this group. I'll have to stick my allegiance with the GOP.
Actually, I really just think I'm disappointed by classmates I like chasing rainbows. It's selfish, I know, to worry about how these strange idealistic crusades reflect on Regent and my degree, but I do. Maybe i'm being cynical again about who does and does not have the juice to be lawyers. That's weighed on my mind as classmates opt out almost daily.
I have to prepare double for a make up Federal Courts class in the morning. I've got a feeling i'm going to be called on.
Wednesday, February 11, 2004
Confirmations
I've been checking my bank account over the phone for the last few days. My application check for the bar exam hasn't been cashed yet. This naturally had me worried. I called the Bar Examining Board. The gentleman who answered the phone acted as though I was bothering me immensely and said,"We haven't run across your name." Now, as I was laying on the floor hyperventilating in a fetal position, he explained that they cash the check as they process the applications and use the postmark date to determine if the application is in on time. Sheesh. Freak me out, will you? They may not even look at the darn thing for months.
I've wondered today, looking back, how much I've changed. I wonder if it's that change that law school supposedly brings about. It supposedly makes one more aggressive and argumentative. I was already those things in abundance, not to mention nihilistic and bitterly cynical. Now I think I'm worst. Has it been school, or has it been life in general? Many rotten things have happened in the last few years. I'd like to know.
My neice came to Williamsburg with her AP History class. They got off the bus, tasted Virginia, and got back on the bus much quicker than they had planned. She said,"Virginia weather sucks." She's right. Virginia's weather does indeed suck.
I've been checking my bank account over the phone for the last few days. My application check for the bar exam hasn't been cashed yet. This naturally had me worried. I called the Bar Examining Board. The gentleman who answered the phone acted as though I was bothering me immensely and said,"We haven't run across your name." Now, as I was laying on the floor hyperventilating in a fetal position, he explained that they cash the check as they process the applications and use the postmark date to determine if the application is in on time. Sheesh. Freak me out, will you? They may not even look at the darn thing for months.
I've wondered today, looking back, how much I've changed. I wonder if it's that change that law school supposedly brings about. It supposedly makes one more aggressive and argumentative. I was already those things in abundance, not to mention nihilistic and bitterly cynical. Now I think I'm worst. Has it been school, or has it been life in general? Many rotten things have happened in the last few years. I'd like to know.
My neice came to Williamsburg with her AP History class. They got off the bus, tasted Virginia, and got back on the bus much quicker than they had planned. She said,"Virginia weather sucks." She's right. Virginia's weather does indeed suck.
Tuesday, February 10, 2004
Trials and Tribulations
It looks like we are switching horses in midstream. my Civil Pre-Trial professor has a new job teaching CLE (Continuing Legal Education) classrs to judges. He'll be heading up to Richmond in order to do so. he was always sort of a lacadaisical professor. this new fellow teaching the course certainly is not. He is an experienced litigator and seems to know what life in the trenches is all about. hopefully that class will now become what I expected it to be.
I talked to Chandra for the first time this semester. This is the first semester we'have not had a class together. Thsat was normally a comforting expectation, but is no longer there. Actually, many comforting things are no longer there. Anyway, she has decided to not take the South Carolina bar. Chalk up another one who will bypass the Palmetto State.
I also saw Laurie tonight. She had her baby with her. That was the first time I have met him. We recalled our time in the Trial Practice trenches last semester. I reintereated that i felt more antagonistic with my partner than with her as my opponent. She knew exactly what meant.
We're definitiely heading towards the end. Conversations now involve where one is planning to take the bar, who has a job, and the like. There is a mix of happiness and melancholy in the air. It's an interesting atmosphere.
It looks like we are switching horses in midstream. my Civil Pre-Trial professor has a new job teaching CLE (Continuing Legal Education) classrs to judges. He'll be heading up to Richmond in order to do so. he was always sort of a lacadaisical professor. this new fellow teaching the course certainly is not. He is an experienced litigator and seems to know what life in the trenches is all about. hopefully that class will now become what I expected it to be.
I talked to Chandra for the first time this semester. This is the first semester we'have not had a class together. Thsat was normally a comforting expectation, but is no longer there. Actually, many comforting things are no longer there. Anyway, she has decided to not take the South Carolina bar. Chalk up another one who will bypass the Palmetto State.
I also saw Laurie tonight. She had her baby with her. That was the first time I have met him. We recalled our time in the Trial Practice trenches last semester. I reintereated that i felt more antagonistic with my partner than with her as my opponent. She knew exactly what meant.
We're definitiely heading towards the end. Conversations now involve where one is planning to take the bar, who has a job, and the like. There is a mix of happiness and melancholy in the air. It's an interesting atmosphere.
Monday, February 9, 2004
Casus Belli
What Every Rational Person Should Know About Iraq: Finally, it's all written down in one place. Read this, and you'll be glad Saddam got whacked.
What Every Rational Person Should Know About Iraq: Finally, it's all written down in one place. Read this, and you'll be glad Saddam got whacked.
Well, Phooey on You Then
Kristina said today she'd like to read my paper on compensation for Japanese war crimes victims (namely those taken as "comfort women") but has zero interest in my paper on fraud in estate planning. After all, the second topic involves something as mundane as the actual practice of law. Why would a third year law student want to read that drivel, no? ;) At least she does want to read the published one. My ego can't be bruised too hard.
For an explanation of the sad case of "comfort women,"click here.
Kristina said today she'd like to read my paper on compensation for Japanese war crimes victims (namely those taken as "comfort women") but has zero interest in my paper on fraud in estate planning. After all, the second topic involves something as mundane as the actual practice of law. Why would a third year law student want to read that drivel, no? ;) At least she does want to read the published one. My ego can't be bruised too hard.
For an explanation of the sad case of "comfort women,"click here.
Sunday, February 8, 2004
Holding the Line
It's after 1:00 AM, I've got class at 8:25 AM, and i haven't read the assignment yet. Federal courts is a huge ordeal. I still can't decided why Ithought it was a good idea. Oh, well. I'm really just writing this entry as an excuse to not read for class. You, my astute readers, have figured that out already.
I boght South Park: the Complete Third Season yesterday. That season is my personal favorite. I think the show hit its aprex that year. My favorite episodes were "Starvin Marin in Space," "Mr. Hanky's Chriatmas Sing-a-Long," "The Red Badge of Courage," and the two epiodes whose titles escape me--the one with Jennifer Anniston taking the kids to a concert in Costa Rica. There she s sacrificed by the natives (where'd she get the cheerleader outfit in the rainforest?) Also the one with Cartman's quest to find the Brown Note in order to gain revenge on some bullying kids from New York. I cackled like an old hag brewing over a cauldron watching those.
I also pulled in for my monthly haul of comics. I've given Bruce Jones well over a year to have something exciting happen in the Hulk. It hasn't happenedy et, but I can't tear myself away from it. There's just something compelling about his train wreck style of storytelling. Still, I miss the high adventureaspects of the Hulk. Thank goodness there are other comics out there to hold my attention. Sad that comicsstill thrill me now as much as they did when i was twelve. of course, since politics does, too, I don't feel quite so odd. Part precocious, part reverting. That's me.
It's after 1:00 AM, I've got class at 8:25 AM, and i haven't read the assignment yet. Federal courts is a huge ordeal. I still can't decided why Ithought it was a good idea. Oh, well. I'm really just writing this entry as an excuse to not read for class. You, my astute readers, have figured that out already.
I boght South Park: the Complete Third Season yesterday. That season is my personal favorite. I think the show hit its aprex that year. My favorite episodes were "Starvin Marin in Space," "Mr. Hanky's Chriatmas Sing-a-Long," "The Red Badge of Courage," and the two epiodes whose titles escape me--the one with Jennifer Anniston taking the kids to a concert in Costa Rica. There she s sacrificed by the natives (where'd she get the cheerleader outfit in the rainforest?) Also the one with Cartman's quest to find the Brown Note in order to gain revenge on some bullying kids from New York. I cackled like an old hag brewing over a cauldron watching those.
I also pulled in for my monthly haul of comics. I've given Bruce Jones well over a year to have something exciting happen in the Hulk. It hasn't happenedy et, but I can't tear myself away from it. There's just something compelling about his train wreck style of storytelling. Still, I miss the high adventureaspects of the Hulk. Thank goodness there are other comics out there to hold my attention. Sad that comicsstill thrill me now as much as they did when i was twelve. of course, since politics does, too, I don't feel quite so odd. Part precocious, part reverting. That's me.
Saturday, February 7, 2004
Homo Homini Lupus Est.
From John Derbyshire:
At a friend’s house the other day, I was introduced to an elderly female relative of his. The family is Jewish, and this old lady was born in Poland in the 1930s. Was she there when the war broke out? I asked, once sufficient acquaintance had been established. Yes, she said, she had. But how on earth had she survived? I asked, knowing that it was in Poland that the Final Solution was brought closest to finality. Well, she told me, she had left Warsaw and stayed with family friends in the countryside. These people, who were Gentiles, had kept her hidden through the whole of the war. After the war she had got out and come to America.
What a story! We all know this stuff, of course, but it is still very moving to hear it from the lips of an eyewitness. Well, later in the evening, the old lady now off in another room, my host cornered me and asked what I had been speaking to her about. I said she had told me the story of being hidden by Gentiles during the war. My friend nodded sadly. “That’s her cover story,” he said. What did he mean? “Well, when the war started, her family actually fled from Poland to the USSR. They had a hard enough time there, goodness knows — WW2 in the USSR was no picnic. But when she came to the States, the Cold War was on, and she was afraid that if she said she’d been living in the USSR, she’d be deported as a suspected communist. So she made up the other story. Still, today, she doesn’t feel totally safe, so she still tells people that story.”
In a way, the old lady’s little act of fearful deception is more telling about the state of affairs in the middle of the 20th century than the original, made-up, version. That fear — mainly fear of communism, but also a generalized fear of any state authority, even America’s — had sunk so deep into her very bones that she clung to her invented tale fifty years on, rather than take the chance of being informed on and deported. Good grief! What a safe, secure, smug, careless world we have the wonderful good fortune to be living in! Somewhere in our conversation the old lady had mentioned the monument to the dead at Dachau, which bears the inscription Homo homini lupus est — “Man is a wolf to man.” Is such evil really part of our human constitution? Yes, it is. May we never forget it
From John Derbyshire:
At a friend’s house the other day, I was introduced to an elderly female relative of his. The family is Jewish, and this old lady was born in Poland in the 1930s. Was she there when the war broke out? I asked, once sufficient acquaintance had been established. Yes, she said, she had. But how on earth had she survived? I asked, knowing that it was in Poland that the Final Solution was brought closest to finality. Well, she told me, she had left Warsaw and stayed with family friends in the countryside. These people, who were Gentiles, had kept her hidden through the whole of the war. After the war she had got out and come to America.
What a story! We all know this stuff, of course, but it is still very moving to hear it from the lips of an eyewitness. Well, later in the evening, the old lady now off in another room, my host cornered me and asked what I had been speaking to her about. I said she had told me the story of being hidden by Gentiles during the war. My friend nodded sadly. “That’s her cover story,” he said. What did he mean? “Well, when the war started, her family actually fled from Poland to the USSR. They had a hard enough time there, goodness knows — WW2 in the USSR was no picnic. But when she came to the States, the Cold War was on, and she was afraid that if she said she’d been living in the USSR, she’d be deported as a suspected communist. So she made up the other story. Still, today, she doesn’t feel totally safe, so she still tells people that story.”
In a way, the old lady’s little act of fearful deception is more telling about the state of affairs in the middle of the 20th century than the original, made-up, version. That fear — mainly fear of communism, but also a generalized fear of any state authority, even America’s — had sunk so deep into her very bones that she clung to her invented tale fifty years on, rather than take the chance of being informed on and deported. Good grief! What a safe, secure, smug, careless world we have the wonderful good fortune to be living in! Somewhere in our conversation the old lady had mentioned the monument to the dead at Dachau, which bears the inscription Homo homini lupus est — “Man is a wolf to man.” Is such evil really part of our human constitution? Yes, it is. May we never forget it
Friday, February 6, 2004
I'm Sure Someone Will Miss Him
You remember Randall Robinson? He was the head of TransAfrica, in Washington, who went on a hunger strike in order to get President Clinton to invade Haiti. He did. Robinson is also a major, major apologist for Fidel Castro, perhaps his favorite world leader. Well, he has now left the United States and written a book about it: Quitting America: The Departure of a Black Man from His Native Land. He went to St. Kitts, where his wife was born. Why did he leave America? He told an interviewer, "America is a huge fraud, clad in a narcissistic conceit and satisfied with itself, feeling unneedful of any self-examination nor responsibility to right past wrongs, of which it notices none. It's the kind of fraud that simply wears you out."
Well, I'm sure America is now slightly less fraudulent without Randall Robinson in it.
You remember Randall Robinson? He was the head of TransAfrica, in Washington, who went on a hunger strike in order to get President Clinton to invade Haiti. He did. Robinson is also a major, major apologist for Fidel Castro, perhaps his favorite world leader. Well, he has now left the United States and written a book about it: Quitting America: The Departure of a Black Man from His Native Land. He went to St. Kitts, where his wife was born. Why did he leave America? He told an interviewer, "America is a huge fraud, clad in a narcissistic conceit and satisfied with itself, feeling unneedful of any self-examination nor responsibility to right past wrongs, of which it notices none. It's the kind of fraud that simply wears you out."
Well, I'm sure America is now slightly less fraudulent without Randall Robinson in it.
Marbury v. Madison
Why take Federal Courts and Legislation? Because you get to hear the true story of Marbury v. Madison.
Why take Federal Courts and Legislation? Because you get to hear the true story of Marbury v. Madison.
Thursday, February 5, 2004
Lag Time
I have an early morning class on Tuesdays and Thursdays that ends at 10:10. My next class isn't until 4:30 in the afternoon. While that seems like a long time, I find that is doesn't feel like enough time to actually start any sort of activity. Thus I wind pittering around on nothing particularly important. I doin't really even feel likereading for tomorrow morning's class since I have an intervening one. Yes, i know this is a weird thing to mention, but if one cannot be self indulgent on his blog, where can he?
I received a copy of the Ultimate Guitar Handbook earlier. it's an interesting and extremely comprehensive guide. i bought it mostly for the chord charts, but I have found the rest of the topics fascinating, even the technical aspects of amplifiersand such. I've spent most of my time with the chord charts, though. I've been practicing the left haand finger movements, which are even tougher for me than i thought they would be. i am still determined to learn how to play.
I had a flash of inspiration for a story this morning and quickly fleshed out some ideas. I might be able to get a framework for it sometime this weekend. This weekend will be busy otherwise, too. I have a list from the University of South Carolina School of Law of law firms seeking new associates. i'm going to whittle that list down and prepare resumes and cover letters for them. It's getting close to crunch time.
I have an early morning class on Tuesdays and Thursdays that ends at 10:10. My next class isn't until 4:30 in the afternoon. While that seems like a long time, I find that is doesn't feel like enough time to actually start any sort of activity. Thus I wind pittering around on nothing particularly important. I doin't really even feel likereading for tomorrow morning's class since I have an intervening one. Yes, i know this is a weird thing to mention, but if one cannot be self indulgent on his blog, where can he?
I received a copy of the Ultimate Guitar Handbook earlier. it's an interesting and extremely comprehensive guide. i bought it mostly for the chord charts, but I have found the rest of the topics fascinating, even the technical aspects of amplifiersand such. I've spent most of my time with the chord charts, though. I've been practicing the left haand finger movements, which are even tougher for me than i thought they would be. i am still determined to learn how to play.
I had a flash of inspiration for a story this morning and quickly fleshed out some ideas. I might be able to get a framework for it sometime this weekend. This weekend will be busy otherwise, too. I have a list from the University of South Carolina School of Law of law firms seeking new associates. i'm going to whittle that list down and prepare resumes and cover letters for them. It's getting close to crunch time.
Wednesday, February 4, 2004
Housekeeping
I've finally gotten around to adding links to other blogs and columnists offerings on Caiviar for the Mind. My blog always seemed a little naked without connections to other spots, so here they are. I'll be addng more as time goes on. If you are interested, there is a much wider assortment of links on my home age, also linked off to the side.
I've finally gotten around to adding links to other blogs and columnists offerings on Caiviar for the Mind. My blog always seemed a little naked without connections to other spots, so here they are. I'll be addng more as time goes on. If you are interested, there is a much wider assortment of links on my home age, also linked off to the side.
Rev. Al and the GOP
Al Sharpton--Republican Stooge? A Village Voice investigation finds that his presidential campaign is being financed and staffed by Roger Stone, a longtime Republican operative. Article details some interesting financing arrangements and reveals that Stone has bragged that he gave Sharpton the ax handle he waved at a NAACP meeting to denounce Democratic racism. Sharpton wants to teach the Democrats a lesson (as he did in helping to elect Republican Mike Bloomberg mayor of New York), and Republicans are anxious to help create a division with black voters.
It didn't help him much in my home state, where he was supposed to pick up delegates but got nary a one.
Al Sharpton--Republican Stooge? A Village Voice investigation finds that his presidential campaign is being financed and staffed by Roger Stone, a longtime Republican operative. Article details some interesting financing arrangements and reveals that Stone has bragged that he gave Sharpton the ax handle he waved at a NAACP meeting to denounce Democratic racism. Sharpton wants to teach the Democrats a lesson (as he did in helping to elect Republican Mike Bloomberg mayor of New York), and Republicans are anxious to help create a division with black voters.
It didn't help him much in my home state, where he was supposed to pick up delegates but got nary a one.
Tuesday, February 3, 2004
The Bellicose Curve
How many Times Has the United States Gone to War Based on Faulty Intelligence?: I'm not saying we've done it in Iraq, and I'm not sure I buy every example listed here, but it seems to have happened more often than we'd like to admit.
How many Times Has the United States Gone to War Based on Faulty Intelligence?: I'm not saying we've done it in Iraq, and I'm not sure I buy every example listed here, but it seems to have happened more often than we'd like to admit.
Monday, February 2, 2004
Zo, Are You Ein Loyal Member Uf Zee Party?
The South Carolina state Democratic Party has decided to force every voter to sign a pledge swearing that they are true Democrats I'm not so sure the Democrats' loyalty oath is even legal. South Carolina code 7-11-20 deals with primaries vs. non-binding "advisory" votes. If it's a primary, it must be held according to state law, which means no loyalty oath is allowed. Since delegates will be apportioned based on the outcome of Tuesday's vote, I don't see how the SC primary can be considered merely "advisory."
I'm no specialist in Constitutional law, but this doesn't sound kosher. Since it's liberals running the show, i doubt anyone will challenge it. Has the ACLU, et al, ever jumped in where they were really needed?
The South Carolina state Democratic Party has decided to force every voter to sign a pledge swearing that they are true Democrats I'm not so sure the Democrats' loyalty oath is even legal. South Carolina code 7-11-20 deals with primaries vs. non-binding "advisory" votes. If it's a primary, it must be held according to state law, which means no loyalty oath is allowed. Since delegates will be apportioned based on the outcome of Tuesday's vote, I don't see how the SC primary can be considered merely "advisory."
I'm no specialist in Constitutional law, but this doesn't sound kosher. Since it's liberals running the show, i doubt anyone will challenge it. Has the ACLU, et al, ever jumped in where they were really needed?
Well, I'll Be
My bar application made it in under the deadline with everything intact. That's such a rare occurence, I'd thought I'd share it with the blogosphere. Well, for that reason and I really don't want to get started on the two pleadings I need to write for tomorrow night's class. One must have priorities. Publishing one's thoughts is a higher calling, after all.
My bar application made it in under the deadline with everything intact. That's such a rare occurence, I'd thought I'd share it with the blogosphere. Well, for that reason and I really don't want to get started on the two pleadings I need to write for tomorrow night's class. One must have priorities. Publishing one's thoughts is a higher calling, after all.
Sunday, February 1, 2004
Satire is Dead
Bush and Blar Nominated for Nobel Peace Prize: All right. I'm an ardent Bush supporter. I voted for him in 2000, and I'll vote for him in November. I whole-heartedly support the war on terror. What's more, I think Saddam was an evil man who never gained a weapon he didn't use, so a war to oust him before getting WMD is a great idea. But, as much as I thought the war was necessary and proper, I cannot say it deserves a Nobel Peace prize.
Was 2003 really that rough a year for peace?
Bush and Blar Nominated for Nobel Peace Prize: All right. I'm an ardent Bush supporter. I voted for him in 2000, and I'll vote for him in November. I whole-heartedly support the war on terror. What's more, I think Saddam was an evil man who never gained a weapon he didn't use, so a war to oust him before getting WMD is a great idea. But, as much as I thought the war was necessary and proper, I cannot say it deserves a Nobel Peace prize.
Was 2003 really that rough a year for peace?
Saturday, January 31, 2004
Christian Lawyering
Every Spring, the entire law school attends an orientation where we hear from practicing attornies who are also Christians. They speak about issues they face rourtinely in the decidedly non-Christian field of practicing law. That is what i had to attend today. It was interesting, however. Usually, the speakers are dry and colorless, but today there was an alumni who spoke of adapting the rules of dealing with disputes in Matthew 18 to a secular setting. Ironically, i blogged about Matthew18 on the 20th, as I recall. He was a humorous fellow, which is most necessary when your specialty is alternative dispute resolution. One has to connect with all parties. I imagine he does that well.
Wegot a free lunch out of it. I would up sitting across from *ahem* She Who Shall Remain Nameless, when he suddenly dawned on me: she just doesn't have the luster that i thought she did. Why did that hit me now? Is it because i am reaching the end of my career as a student? It's interesting, too, that i am not as upset about it as I thought i would be. it's just a conclusion i eached, and that's the end of it. There are so many nicer girls out there. I think handing that concern over to God has worked for me. I knew in my heart of hearts it wouldn't work out, but I'm glad I came to that conclusion peacefully rather than having her stomp all over my feelings, as i know she eventually would have.
Now, for the operative question: what's next?
Every Spring, the entire law school attends an orientation where we hear from practicing attornies who are also Christians. They speak about issues they face rourtinely in the decidedly non-Christian field of practicing law. That is what i had to attend today. It was interesting, however. Usually, the speakers are dry and colorless, but today there was an alumni who spoke of adapting the rules of dealing with disputes in Matthew 18 to a secular setting. Ironically, i blogged about Matthew18 on the 20th, as I recall. He was a humorous fellow, which is most necessary when your specialty is alternative dispute resolution. One has to connect with all parties. I imagine he does that well.
Wegot a free lunch out of it. I would up sitting across from *ahem* She Who Shall Remain Nameless, when he suddenly dawned on me: she just doesn't have the luster that i thought she did. Why did that hit me now? Is it because i am reaching the end of my career as a student? It's interesting, too, that i am not as upset about it as I thought i would be. it's just a conclusion i eached, and that's the end of it. There are so many nicer girls out there. I think handing that concern over to God has worked for me. I knew in my heart of hearts it wouldn't work out, but I'm glad I came to that conclusion peacefully rather than having her stomp all over my feelings, as i know she eventually would have.
Now, for the operative question: what's next?
Friday, January 30, 2004
Hmmm...
I really have nothing to say right now, which is an event worth noting because of its rare occurence and significance. So, as a concession to the 21st Century, I've announced it on my blog. Isn't it wonderful that any idiot with a modem can blares out his inane thoughts to the world within seconds? if that isn't the greatest concept ever brought about by man, it'll do until a replacement comes along.
I really have nothing to say right now, which is an event worth noting because of its rare occurence and significance. So, as a concession to the 21st Century, I've announced it on my blog. Isn't it wonderful that any idiot with a modem can blares out his inane thoughts to the world within seconds? if that isn't the greatest concept ever brought about by man, it'll do until a replacement comes along.
Thursday, January 29, 2004
Motivation
Motivation as in, "I don't have any." Thank goodness the weekend is coming up. Even though my Saturday is largely shot because of the "Chrisian Lawyering" seminar that i have to attend, I am going to have to find some way to rejuvenate myself. Maybe by starting a new project. I should start writing something again. I've defintitely been bugged my some nahhing thoughts lately related to thathuge chip on my shoulder that I dare any and all comers to knock off. Perhaps those are words that belong on paper.
Motivation as in, "I don't have any." Thank goodness the weekend is coming up. Even though my Saturday is largely shot because of the "Chrisian Lawyering" seminar that i have to attend, I am going to have to find some way to rejuvenate myself. Maybe by starting a new project. I should start writing something again. I've defintitely been bugged my some nahhing thoughts lately related to thathuge chip on my shoulder that I dare any and all comers to knock off. Perhaps those are words that belong on paper.
Wednesday, January 28, 2004
Ponderings
First, why did I take Federal Courts? It has a reputation for being impossibly difficult that everyone is aware. That means it's a very small class, so the odds of gerring called on to publicallty anayze acase pretty much guarantees a weekly grilling. Plus, it's first thing in the morning, when it's coldest. Top that off with it being essentially another semester of Constitutiona law, and you have a deadly combo.
Second, why did i sign up for Civil PreTrial? I thought it would be a general class on pleadings, depositions, and the like. Instead, it is a Virginia specific procedure class. i have to trudge through tons of Virginia statutes in order to do the work. Ninety percent of what goes on there will be completely seless to this South Carolina boy.
Third, why am I still maintaining office hours at the journal when my role in the latest issue is already completed? Seems my time coud be spent more productively elsewhere. I'm wondering if these thoughts are student burnout?
First, why did I take Federal Courts? It has a reputation for being impossibly difficult that everyone is aware. That means it's a very small class, so the odds of gerring called on to publicallty anayze acase pretty much guarantees a weekly grilling. Plus, it's first thing in the morning, when it's coldest. Top that off with it being essentially another semester of Constitutiona law, and you have a deadly combo.
Second, why did i sign up for Civil PreTrial? I thought it would be a general class on pleadings, depositions, and the like. Instead, it is a Virginia specific procedure class. i have to trudge through tons of Virginia statutes in order to do the work. Ninety percent of what goes on there will be completely seless to this South Carolina boy.
Third, why am I still maintaining office hours at the journal when my role in the latest issue is already completed? Seems my time coud be spent more productively elsewhere. I'm wondering if these thoughts are student burnout?
The Left's Idea of Free Speech
Comedian Al Franken knocked down a Howard Dean heckler at a speech in New Hampshire, breaking his trademark thck glasses. Defending free speech by tackling a heckler? "I got down low and took his legs out," said Franken afterwards. "I'm neutral in this race but I'm for freedom of speech, which means people should be able to assemble and speak without being shouted down." Indeed.
Comedian Al Franken knocked down a Howard Dean heckler at a speech in New Hampshire, breaking his trademark thck glasses. Defending free speech by tackling a heckler? "I got down low and took his legs out," said Franken afterwards. "I'm neutral in this race but I'm for freedom of speech, which means people should be able to assemble and speak without being shouted down." Indeed.
Kerry Forgoes the South
Kerry may be on a roll in New Hampshire, but he's wise to his chances down south. He told a Dartmouth College audience that "Everybody always makes the mistake of looking South. Al Gore proved he could have been president of the United States without winning one Southern state, including his own." Actually, he new Electoral College map actually give southern states even more clout, but Kerry is fundamentally correct. It is possible for a Democrat to lose every southern state and become president. Just ask President..uh...Bush.. OK, so no Democrat has ever done it, but since Kerry has no hope of carrying any southern state not starting with the letter "F," he is very smart to make this case to primary voters.
While we're on the subject, it looks like Kerry has had a few collagen injections lately, too. Have you noticed?
Kerry may be on a roll in New Hampshire, but he's wise to his chances down south. He told a Dartmouth College audience that "Everybody always makes the mistake of looking South. Al Gore proved he could have been president of the United States without winning one Southern state, including his own." Actually, he new Electoral College map actually give southern states even more clout, but Kerry is fundamentally correct. It is possible for a Democrat to lose every southern state and become president. Just ask President..uh...Bush.. OK, so no Democrat has ever done it, but since Kerry has no hope of carrying any southern state not starting with the letter "F," he is very smart to make this case to primary voters.
While we're on the subject, it looks like Kerry has had a few collagen injections lately, too. Have you noticed?
Monday, January 26, 2004
Snowflakes in January
You'll have to forgive the title, but I'm from South Carolina. Snow anytime is odd, much less in January. Regardless, there is about two inches of snow on the ground. The storm is heading north, so it's expected that the snow will turn to slush and start fading away sometime tomorrow. I wandered around the village roday with my camera and took some nice pictures of the white trees and buildings. it added a character to everything that this purgatory of a state usually doesn't have. in fact, it made Virginia...almost...tolerable. For about ten seconds. Then I remembered the Palmetto State. Yes, it was a close one, but much like this snow, it just wouldn't stick.
I talked to Mike today. He is going through the BARBRI barreview course. He has to learn and memorize the nuances of two sets of law: the general principles of the multistate and the quirks of North Carolina law. They aren't always the same. He said he wouldn't wish this on his worse enemy. We used to say the same thing about law school. I haven't changed my mind about that, either. The study of law should be incorporated into our judicial system as a punishment.
JUDGE: I sentence you to three years at the Regent University School of Law.
PRISONER: Oh, please your honor! Have mercy!
JUDGE: And if I see you here again, you're getting an LL M in Corporate Taxation.
PRISONER: *uncontrollable sobbing*
You'll have to forgive the title, but I'm from South Carolina. Snow anytime is odd, much less in January. Regardless, there is about two inches of snow on the ground. The storm is heading north, so it's expected that the snow will turn to slush and start fading away sometime tomorrow. I wandered around the village roday with my camera and took some nice pictures of the white trees and buildings. it added a character to everything that this purgatory of a state usually doesn't have. in fact, it made Virginia...almost...tolerable. For about ten seconds. Then I remembered the Palmetto State. Yes, it was a close one, but much like this snow, it just wouldn't stick.
I talked to Mike today. He is going through the BARBRI barreview course. He has to learn and memorize the nuances of two sets of law: the general principles of the multistate and the quirks of North Carolina law. They aren't always the same. He said he wouldn't wish this on his worse enemy. We used to say the same thing about law school. I haven't changed my mind about that, either. The study of law should be incorporated into our judicial system as a punishment.
JUDGE: I sentence you to three years at the Regent University School of Law.
PRISONER: Oh, please your honor! Have mercy!
JUDGE: And if I see you here again, you're getting an LL M in Corporate Taxation.
PRISONER: *uncontrollable sobbing*
Bugs Bunny v. the Axis Powers
World War II in Cartoons: Now where else are you going to see Bugs Bunny battle the Japanese and Donald Duck take on Hilter? Only here at Caviar for the Mind, my friends.
World War II in Cartoons: Now where else are you going to see Bugs Bunny battle the Japanese and Donald Duck take on Hilter? Only here at Caviar for the Mind, my friends.
Sunday, January 25, 2004
There Snow Business Like Show Business
There is a light but steady snow flurry falling outside. A litttle while ago, i was stuck ot in it near the grocery store. i was slowly but surely fumbing my way to the car as it really started to come down. I must have looked like a newborn dawn trying out my legs for the first time. Now, as I've said before, Virginians can't drive, and when the weather is bad, they are even worse. For some reason, to them, snow means, "Go faster." I'm glad I made it home before the real looney drivers took to the streets. I expect to hear about 10 or so accidents on the radio tomorrow morning.
There is a light but steady snow flurry falling outside. A litttle while ago, i was stuck ot in it near the grocery store. i was slowly but surely fumbing my way to the car as it really started to come down. I must have looked like a newborn dawn trying out my legs for the first time. Now, as I've said before, Virginians can't drive, and when the weather is bad, they are even worse. For some reason, to them, snow means, "Go faster." I'm glad I made it home before the real looney drivers took to the streets. I expect to hear about 10 or so accidents on the radio tomorrow morning.
Saturday, January 24, 2004
Quite a Good Day
First, I received my replacement sweater from LL Bean this morning. Longtime readers (assuming there is such an animal) will recall my original sweater was soiled in my accident a few weeks ago. It was surprisingly painless to replace it. My face, of course, was not as painless. Nevertheless, the scars have faded to two virtually unnoticeable lines--one on my forehead and another across the bridge of my nose. Even the lump on my head is dissapating. My black eyes faded days ago. Thirdly (hmm..I've screwed up the numbering already. Oh, well.) my eyes have cleared up enough that I can drive. Finally, and the best news, my bar exam application is ready to mail off on Monday. Thus, in oneday, virtually everything I've had weighing onmy mind has turned out well.
Now, rather than tempt fate, i'm going to settle back and watch my new DVD of Freddy v. Jason.
First, I received my replacement sweater from LL Bean this morning. Longtime readers (assuming there is such an animal) will recall my original sweater was soiled in my accident a few weeks ago. It was surprisingly painless to replace it. My face, of course, was not as painless. Nevertheless, the scars have faded to two virtually unnoticeable lines--one on my forehead and another across the bridge of my nose. Even the lump on my head is dissapating. My black eyes faded days ago. Thirdly (hmm..I've screwed up the numbering already. Oh, well.) my eyes have cleared up enough that I can drive. Finally, and the best news, my bar exam application is ready to mail off on Monday. Thus, in oneday, virtually everything I've had weighing onmy mind has turned out well.
Now, rather than tempt fate, i'm going to settle back and watch my new DVD of Freddy v. Jason.
Wednesday, January 21, 2004
Targeted
I was on the hot seat for the first time in Federal Courts today. It's not exactly a fun and glorious experience. I also discovered a general unenthusiasm for this semester among several friends. I'm glad it's not just me. This feeling of, "just get me the heck out of here" is, in eality, an epidemic. Yes, this semester can't end fast enogh to suit me or anybody else.
I was on the hot seat for the first time in Federal Courts today. It's not exactly a fun and glorious experience. I also discovered a general unenthusiasm for this semester among several friends. I'm glad it's not just me. This feeling of, "just get me the heck out of here" is, in eality, an epidemic. Yes, this semester can't end fast enogh to suit me or anybody else.
Tuesday, January 20, 2004
Devotion
Here is the devotional Scripture reading i am going to present for my Civil PreTiral class tonight:
If any of you has a dispute with another, dare he take it
before the ungodly for judgment instead of before the
saints? Do you not know that the saints will judge the
world? And if you are to judge the world, are you not com-
petent to judge trivial cases? Do you not know that we will
judge angels? How much more the things of this life!
Therefore, if you have disputes about such matters, appoint
as judges even men of little account in the church! I say
this to shame you. Is it possible that there is nobody among
you wise enough to judge a dispute between believers? But
instead, one brother goes to law against another - and this
in front of unbelievers!
The very fact that you have lawsuits among you means you
have been completely defeated already. Why not rather be
wronged? Why not rather be cheated? Instead, you your-
selves cheat and do wrong, and you do this to your broth-
ers.
1 Corinthians 6:1-8
If your brother sins against you, go and show him his fault,
just between the two of you. If he listens to you, you have
won your brother over. But if he will not listen, take one or
two others along; so that every matter may be established
by the testimony of two or three witnesses. If he refuses to
listen to them, tell it to the church; and if he refuses to lis-
ten even to the church, treat him as you would a pagan or
a tax collector.
I tell you the truth, whatever you bind on earth will be
bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be
loosed in heaven.
Again, I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about
anything you ask for, it will be done for you by my Father
in heaven. For where two or three come together in my
name, there am I with them.
Matthew 18:15-20
Here is the devotional Scripture reading i am going to present for my Civil PreTiral class tonight:
If any of you has a dispute with another, dare he take it
before the ungodly for judgment instead of before the
saints? Do you not know that the saints will judge the
world? And if you are to judge the world, are you not com-
petent to judge trivial cases? Do you not know that we will
judge angels? How much more the things of this life!
Therefore, if you have disputes about such matters, appoint
as judges even men of little account in the church! I say
this to shame you. Is it possible that there is nobody among
you wise enough to judge a dispute between believers? But
instead, one brother goes to law against another - and this
in front of unbelievers!
The very fact that you have lawsuits among you means you
have been completely defeated already. Why not rather be
wronged? Why not rather be cheated? Instead, you your-
selves cheat and do wrong, and you do this to your broth-
ers.
1 Corinthians 6:1-8
If your brother sins against you, go and show him his fault,
just between the two of you. If he listens to you, you have
won your brother over. But if he will not listen, take one or
two others along; so that every matter may be established
by the testimony of two or three witnesses. If he refuses to
listen to them, tell it to the church; and if he refuses to lis-
ten even to the church, treat him as you would a pagan or
a tax collector.
I tell you the truth, whatever you bind on earth will be
bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be
loosed in heaven.
Again, I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about
anything you ask for, it will be done for you by my Father
in heaven. For where two or three come together in my
name, there am I with them.
Matthew 18:15-20
Monday, January 19, 2004
Iowa Caucuses
I certainly didn't expect Kerry to pull this one out. I had all ideas that Dean, who has campaigned in Iowa for two years, to win. it looks like Dean's blunt nature is hurting him in the polls. I was hoping for Dean, as I think he would be the easiest nominee for Bush to beat in November. Now it looks like there might be a two horse race, not between Kerry and Dean, but Kerry and Edwards. It's going to be fascinating to see New Hampshire when Clark gets thrown into the mix as well. What do you want to bet that Dean will run as an independant candidate if he doesn't get the nomination?
I certainly didn't expect Kerry to pull this one out. I had all ideas that Dean, who has campaigned in Iowa for two years, to win. it looks like Dean's blunt nature is hurting him in the polls. I was hoping for Dean, as I think he would be the easiest nominee for Bush to beat in November. Now it looks like there might be a two horse race, not between Kerry and Dean, but Kerry and Edwards. It's going to be fascinating to see New Hampshire when Clark gets thrown into the mix as well. What do you want to bet that Dean will run as an independant candidate if he doesn't get the nomination?
Where Liberal Rhetoric Comes From
George W. Bush Conspriacy Generator: Remember to read the disclaimer before using, my liberal amigos.
George W. Bush Conspriacy Generator: Remember to read the disclaimer before using, my liberal amigos.
Weekender
It's been cold and rainy this weekend. That has given me a good excuse to become a recluse and see if I can't speed u the healing process. I've spent this time reading a few novels. i've also worked on my home page some. A few days ago, I got a nastygram from Geocitiessaying it would be deleted if i didn't update in the next thirty days. Looks like they are trying to get rid of stagnant pages. Funnt, since even those have the awgul pop up ads on them regardless. Nevertheless, i've added a few touches here and there and will probably keep doing so for a while. As usual, y sleep pattern is awkward, and i wind up staying up at all hours. it's been nice to sit back in my easy chair and hear nothing but the refrigerator hum.
My face is healing, and my eye is clearing up. Are things improving, or am I being set up for the kill? Time will tell.
It's been cold and rainy this weekend. That has given me a good excuse to become a recluse and see if I can't speed u the healing process. I've spent this time reading a few novels. i've also worked on my home page some. A few days ago, I got a nastygram from Geocitiessaying it would be deleted if i didn't update in the next thirty days. Looks like they are trying to get rid of stagnant pages. Funnt, since even those have the awgul pop up ads on them regardless. Nevertheless, i've added a few touches here and there and will probably keep doing so for a while. As usual, y sleep pattern is awkward, and i wind up staying up at all hours. it's been nice to sit back in my easy chair and hear nothing but the refrigerator hum.
My face is healing, and my eye is clearing up. Are things improving, or am I being set up for the kill? Time will tell.
Friday, January 16, 2004
Coverage
This may be an odd thing to complain about and an even odder time to mention it, but Marvel's new policy of having pin up artwork on all their covers is annoying. Now you can't catch a hint at what the story inside is actually about. With the induxtry in decline like it is, you'd think the company would want to encourage impulse purchases with an exciting cover. I'm not sure who is in charge of marketing at Marvel, but he certainly missed the boat on this concept.
This may be an odd thing to complain about and an even odder time to mention it, but Marvel's new policy of having pin up artwork on all their covers is annoying. Now you can't catch a hint at what the story inside is actually about. With the induxtry in decline like it is, you'd think the company would want to encourage impulse purchases with an exciting cover. I'm not sure who is in charge of marketing at Marvel, but he certainly missed the boat on this concept.
Wednesday, January 14, 2004
In Stitches
The stitches came out today. There won't be any visible scarring because of the quick and careful work that was done on them. Much of the swelling still remains and I'm still doing a killer raccoon impression with my eyes, but things are moving along nicely. I thought about postinga few pictures, but this isn't something I ever want to remember once it's all said and done. Once my black eyes fade, i'll have t rescedule with the eye doctor and see if I can't improve on this "fog" without surgery. Like i've said before, 2004 is not shaping up to be a better year than 2003. At least not yet, anyway.
The stitches came out today. There won't be any visible scarring because of the quick and careful work that was done on them. Much of the swelling still remains and I'm still doing a killer raccoon impression with my eyes, but things are moving along nicely. I thought about postinga few pictures, but this isn't something I ever want to remember once it's all said and done. Once my black eyes fade, i'll have t rescedule with the eye doctor and see if I can't improve on this "fog" without surgery. Like i've said before, 2004 is not shaping up to be a better year than 2003. At least not yet, anyway.
Monday, January 12, 2004
New Discovery
For the record, cold, biting wind against a bruised face hurts really, really badly. I can remember if I've said ately how much i dislike Virgnia, so let me remind you all: I dislike Virginia. One nice thing did happen today. One of the janitor's who helped me with my injury called to check up on me. That was a very nice thing to do, particularly considering that hehas already gone above and beyond the call of duty to help me in the first place.
For the record, cold, biting wind against a bruised face hurts really, really badly. I can remember if I've said ately how much i dislike Virgnia, so let me remind you all: I dislike Virginia. One nice thing did happen today. One of the janitor's who helped me with my injury called to check up on me. That was a very nice thing to do, particularly considering that hehas already gone above and beyond the call of duty to help me in the first place.
Sunday, January 11, 2004
Ouch
I don't have a patch of skin on my face that is its normal color. It looks like someone has beaten me with a tire iron. i've thought about putting a picture up here just for the record, but I'm not so sure i want to remember these days once they are gone. There's no sense in leaving a road marker down memory lane about this little affair. The good news is that my vision is steadily claring up. it didn't do so in time to save my face, but i guess you can't have it all. i'm still debating over whether I'll go back to class tomorrow. it depends on how much I can hide with bandages.
I don't have a patch of skin on my face that is its normal color. It looks like someone has beaten me with a tire iron. i've thought about putting a picture up here just for the record, but I'm not so sure i want to remember these days once they are gone. There's no sense in leaving a road marker down memory lane about this little affair. The good news is that my vision is steadily claring up. it didn't do so in time to save my face, but i guess you can't have it all. i'm still debating over whether I'll go back to class tomorrow. it depends on how much I can hide with bandages.
Saturday, January 10, 2004
Further Elaboration
After crashing for nearly fourteen hours, I can now assess the damage with a relatively clear head. Some of it is more acute than others. Once i put my feet on the floor, I immediately felt the jarring aftershocks. Mt neck and shoulders ache—especially my right one. I have some nice bruises up and down my arms and a huge one on my knee where I went down.
To elaborate, I stumbled over a theshold covered by carpet in our student union building. I tried for a few seconds to regain my balance, but I knew it wasn’t possible. For that split moment I knew I couldn’t save myself, I knew I was going to hit the wall. I certainly did. Face first, in fact. I was dazed, but I can remember saying my nose was broken. There were two members of the maintenance staff nearby. One grabbed me from behind to keep me from falling over, as both my head and nose were gushing blood. Someone, I don’t even know who, called 911.
Much of this was a blur, but I do recall hearing prayers, one even in Hebrew. I remember it running through my mind how interesting it is to be at Regent. I can’t hink of any other school where that would happen. It’s funny the things that go through your mind while you are spitting blood into a cup.
Well, I got the whole nine yards—ambulance ride, cat scan, six hour emergency room wait while alternating an ice pack between my head and nose. I had a three inches hematoma (bleeding under the skin) to go along with the stitches on my nose. The blood didn’t seem to phase too many. Even the janitors kept cleaning up around me without slowing down in their conversation. I assume they’ve seen much worse in their time.
I, however, have not. I have a swollen gash across my forehead, another across the bridge of my nose, and what appears to be a nice chunk out of my septum, but i can’t tell exactly how bad until it scabs over. Everthing, from hairline to neck, is a nice shade of either blue or purple, with a few bits f green just to add some variety.
The university administration has freaked. Even while I was on the floor bleeding and the paramedics were trying to keep mre from going into shock, the head administrator came down and was interrogating me as to whether I thought they might be at fault. Even Pat Robertson gave me a call to personally apologize. I’m thinking that Monday Morning is going to be a really interesting time.
I am an emotional wreck at all this. Last year was terrible, and this year isn’t shaping up to be any better I’m an emotional wreck over the scarring of my nose. It’s up in the air, but there might be plastic surgery in my future. There is no telling where this will all wind up, but one things is for certain: even when you think you’ve lost everything ,fate finds a way to take even more.
After crashing for nearly fourteen hours, I can now assess the damage with a relatively clear head. Some of it is more acute than others. Once i put my feet on the floor, I immediately felt the jarring aftershocks. Mt neck and shoulders ache—especially my right one. I have some nice bruises up and down my arms and a huge one on my knee where I went down.
To elaborate, I stumbled over a theshold covered by carpet in our student union building. I tried for a few seconds to regain my balance, but I knew it wasn’t possible. For that split moment I knew I couldn’t save myself, I knew I was going to hit the wall. I certainly did. Face first, in fact. I was dazed, but I can remember saying my nose was broken. There were two members of the maintenance staff nearby. One grabbed me from behind to keep me from falling over, as both my head and nose were gushing blood. Someone, I don’t even know who, called 911.
Much of this was a blur, but I do recall hearing prayers, one even in Hebrew. I remember it running through my mind how interesting it is to be at Regent. I can’t hink of any other school where that would happen. It’s funny the things that go through your mind while you are spitting blood into a cup.
Well, I got the whole nine yards—ambulance ride, cat scan, six hour emergency room wait while alternating an ice pack between my head and nose. I had a three inches hematoma (bleeding under the skin) to go along with the stitches on my nose. The blood didn’t seem to phase too many. Even the janitors kept cleaning up around me without slowing down in their conversation. I assume they’ve seen much worse in their time.
I, however, have not. I have a swollen gash across my forehead, another across the bridge of my nose, and what appears to be a nice chunk out of my septum, but i can’t tell exactly how bad until it scabs over. Everthing, from hairline to neck, is a nice shade of either blue or purple, with a few bits f green just to add some variety.
The university administration has freaked. Even while I was on the floor bleeding and the paramedics were trying to keep mre from going into shock, the head administrator came down and was interrogating me as to whether I thought they might be at fault. Even Pat Robertson gave me a call to personally apologize. I’m thinking that Monday Morning is going to be a really interesting time.
I am an emotional wreck at all this. Last year was terrible, and this year isn’t shaping up to be any better I’m an emotional wreck over the scarring of my nose. It’s up in the air, but there might be plastic surgery in my future. There is no telling where this will all wind up, but one things is for certain: even when you think you’ve lost everything ,fate finds a way to take even more.
Friday, January 9, 2004
I Knew It, Part II
Scratch that last post. This motning I tripped over a loose bit of carpet in our student center and went face first into the wall. Instead of eye surgery, i now have a concussion, nearly broken nose, and a dozen or so stitches to worry about instead. There's a really nice three inhes hematoma across my forehead and a nicely colorful jaw in various shades of black and purple. Yes, 2004 is shaping up really well so far.
Scratch that last post. This motning I tripped over a loose bit of carpet in our student center and went face first into the wall. Instead of eye surgery, i now have a concussion, nearly broken nose, and a dozen or so stitches to worry about instead. There's a really nice three inhes hematoma across my forehead and a nicely colorful jaw in various shades of black and purple. Yes, 2004 is shaping up really well so far.
Thursday, January 8, 2004
Wednesday, January 7, 2004
Back to the Millstone
Today is my last day of holiday break. Tomorrow, I have Federal Courts at 8:25. That's right, once more, I have to get up at the crack of dawn in order to take a class I don't really want. Hopefully, it will turn out as well as Business Associations did, and all the whining i'm going to do about the class will be all for naught. But, back to my pointless...uh...point, I've spennt the day scurrying about on errands and am about to settle back with a Harlan Ellison novel my sister gave me for Christmas. Oppotunities to sit quietly and read are going to be few and far between in the foreseeable future. I've got to take advantage of such things whenever I can slide them in.
Today is my last day of holiday break. Tomorrow, I have Federal Courts at 8:25. That's right, once more, I have to get up at the crack of dawn in order to take a class I don't really want. Hopefully, it will turn out as well as Business Associations did, and all the whining i'm going to do about the class will be all for naught. But, back to my pointless...uh...point, I've spennt the day scurrying about on errands and am about to settle back with a Harlan Ellison novel my sister gave me for Christmas. Oppotunities to sit quietly and read are going to be few and far between in the foreseeable future. I've got to take advantage of such things whenever I can slide them in.
Tuesday, January 6, 2004
A Rose by Any Other Name
Now that Pete Rose has admitted he gambled while manger of the Reds, will he be allowed back into baseball? Considering OJ Simpson is still in the Football Hall of Fame, I don't see any argument why Rose shouldn't be in Cooperstown. But what Rose really wants is to manage in the majorsagain, and that's not going to happen. He's still a gambler, as he is a regular in Vegas and at off track betting elsewhere. There's too great a chance he'll go right back to betting on--or worse, against, whatever team he's managing. if Rose gets reinstated into the business side of baseball, i'll eat my Atlanta Braves hat.
Now that Pete Rose has admitted he gambled while manger of the Reds, will he be allowed back into baseball? Considering OJ Simpson is still in the Football Hall of Fame, I don't see any argument why Rose shouldn't be in Cooperstown. But what Rose really wants is to manage in the majorsagain, and that's not going to happen. He's still a gambler, as he is a regular in Vegas and at off track betting elsewhere. There's too great a chance he'll go right back to betting on--or worse, against, whatever team he's managing. if Rose gets reinstated into the business side of baseball, i'll eat my Atlanta Braves hat.
Freeze Frame
After flirting with 70 degree weather yesterday, its back to being vold and windy today. Knowwing Virginia, it's going to stay that way for the foreseeable future. If you can't hear my teeth chattering with your connection speed, I assure you they are. While we are on the subject of things that give you cold chills, I just spent 300+ dollars on my textbooks for this semester. Let me reiterate that this is my *last* semester. Ever. In my entire life. Finally, I have reached the point where I will never sit inside a classroom again. I have also decided, just for good measure, that I am going to put "I do not appeal federal cases" on all my representation agreements, in order to ensue I never set foot in the Dominion State again.
(FYI: Both South Carolina and Virginia are in the same federal circuit. If one wishes to appeal a federal case tha was tried in South Carolina, in must be heard in the U.S. 4th Circuit Court of Appeals in Richmond, Virginia.)
(FYI, Part Deux: Interesting that this place is the Dominion State. I recall the alien race from Deep Space Nine called the Dominion. Xenophobic and militaristic, they attempted to destroy everyone one they could not control. Heck, I'm of the opinion that the Virginia Tourism Board should put that in their brochures. Watch out for the Jem Ha'Dar foot soldiers.)
.
After flirting with 70 degree weather yesterday, its back to being vold and windy today. Knowwing Virginia, it's going to stay that way for the foreseeable future. If you can't hear my teeth chattering with your connection speed, I assure you they are. While we are on the subject of things that give you cold chills, I just spent 300+ dollars on my textbooks for this semester. Let me reiterate that this is my *last* semester. Ever. In my entire life. Finally, I have reached the point where I will never sit inside a classroom again. I have also decided, just for good measure, that I am going to put "I do not appeal federal cases" on all my representation agreements, in order to ensue I never set foot in the Dominion State again.
(FYI: Both South Carolina and Virginia are in the same federal circuit. If one wishes to appeal a federal case tha was tried in South Carolina, in must be heard in the U.S. 4th Circuit Court of Appeals in Richmond, Virginia.)
(FYI, Part Deux: Interesting that this place is the Dominion State. I recall the alien race from Deep Space Nine called the Dominion. Xenophobic and militaristic, they attempted to destroy everyone one they could not control. Heck, I'm of the opinion that the Virginia Tourism Board should put that in their brochures. Watch out for the Jem Ha'Dar foot soldiers.)
.
Monday, January 5, 2004
Exam Grades
You will recall I previously whined about the difficulty of my Health Care Law and Business Associations exams. Health Care shocked me, but Business Associations seemed to have done me in. Well, I don't know how I managed it, but I got one of the highest grades in both classes. I am one ecstatic (not to mention relieved) camper.
You will recall I previously whined about the difficulty of my Health Care Law and Business Associations exams. Health Care shocked me, but Business Associations seemed to have done me in. Well, I don't know how I managed it, but I got one of the highest grades in both classes. I am one ecstatic (not to mention relieved) camper.
Postings?
Oh, yeah. Content. On my blog. Gotcha. It's forthcoming. In the meantime, here's the top twenty show runs on Broadway and how many performances each had.
Cats (7485 performances)
Les Misérables (6680, closed 5/18/03)
The Phantom of the Opera (6650, still running)
A Chorus Line (6137)
Oh! Calcutta! - revival (5959)
Miss Saigon (4097)
Beauty and the Beast (3971, still running)
42nd Street (3486)
Grease (3388)
Fiddler on the Roof (3242)
Life With Father (3224)
Rent (3191, still running)
Tobacco Road (3182)
Chicago - revival (2976, still running)
Hello, Dolly! (2844)
My Fair Lady (2717)
The Lion King (2598, still running)
Cabaret - revival (2378, closed 1/4/04)
Annie (2377)
Man of La Mancha (2328)
Oh, yeah. Content. On my blog. Gotcha. It's forthcoming. In the meantime, here's the top twenty show runs on Broadway and how many performances each had.
Cats (7485 performances)
Les Misérables (6680, closed 5/18/03)
The Phantom of the Opera (6650, still running)
A Chorus Line (6137)
Oh! Calcutta! - revival (5959)
Miss Saigon (4097)
Beauty and the Beast (3971, still running)
42nd Street (3486)
Grease (3388)
Fiddler on the Roof (3242)
Life With Father (3224)
Rent (3191, still running)
Tobacco Road (3182)
Chicago - revival (2976, still running)
Hello, Dolly! (2844)
My Fair Lady (2717)
The Lion King (2598, still running)
Cabaret - revival (2378, closed 1/4/04)
Annie (2377)
Man of La Mancha (2328)
Thursday, January 1, 2004
So Far, So Good
We are now over thirteen hours into 2004 and nothing has gone wrong yet. Am I pressing my luck by posting this? Probably. Tempt me not, Fate.
The South Carolina Legislative session resumes Monday after the holiday break. My sister asked if I had any requests, as the Senator gets a laundry list over Christmas, and Denise is the one who filters them out. I requested a passing bar exam, a job with a six figure salary (plus benefits), and Reese Witherspoon. All impossible, according to her.
Au contraire.
If SC Rep. Creips can pass a resolution requesting the Dixie Chicks, I can ask for Reese Witherspoon. That's our republic in action.
We are now over thirteen hours into 2004 and nothing has gone wrong yet. Am I pressing my luck by posting this? Probably. Tempt me not, Fate.
The South Carolina Legislative session resumes Monday after the holiday break. My sister asked if I had any requests, as the Senator gets a laundry list over Christmas, and Denise is the one who filters them out. I requested a passing bar exam, a job with a six figure salary (plus benefits), and Reese Witherspoon. All impossible, according to her.
Au contraire.
If SC Rep. Creips can pass a resolution requesting the Dixie Chicks, I can ask for Reese Witherspoon. That's our republic in action.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
