As if the Michael Moores and Cindy Sheehans of the world were not proof enough, the left often demonstrates through their close association with national Democrats why much of America feels betrayed by the Democratic Party.
It's rather simplistic to reduce politics to a great battle between the Bush faction and the rest of the world, and this is one of the reasons I have always found the current fascination of the left with this particular President a net liability on their own part. But this is a style that the Democratic Party has adopted.
This President is not the be-all-and-end-all of American politics, any more than President Clinton was in his day. I say this as an acquaintance of someone who once told me, in hushed, emphatic tones, "If Clinton wins a second term, he will be the last President of the United States." And she believed it, as much as she believed that the Democrats were evil incarnate. I didn't take her seriously then, despite her claim to be a fellow conservative, and I had no reason to. By the same token, I don't take most the left seriously now.
I've previously written on why I think that the national Democrats are losing the battle for the hearts and minds of Americans in all but their attempts to disparage the character of this President. The fact is that the Democrats now stand for the counsel of despair, rather than the counsel of optimism and hope. Once they begin to offer what many of them once offered, but no longer do, then they will have a better chance of success. And America will be better served when that happens.
It seems rather odd, but I have a feeling that Hillary Clinton will win the next Presidential election, unless a couple of things happen that don't seem to be on the horizon, and provided that she plays her cards right. Notice that Sen. Clinton does not play the "bash Bush" game; this is by design. I know her playbook, and I know how she intends to win. I've called the last several elections based on these instincts -- I even predicted that President Bush would win the Republican nomination when he first came on the national scene -- and as things stand, I think the next election is coming clearly in focus as well.
When and if Hillary Clinton wins, this might finally spell the end of the Anti-Bushite Party. One can only hope.
Wednesday, August 31, 2005
President Bush To Speak On Katrina Disaster
According to CNN, President Bush intends to give a White House speech on the aftermath of the most destructive hurricane to strike the United States in recent memory. He will address the nation at 5:00 p.m. tonight.
As this story is written, the President has just landed in Washington, D.C. on Air Force One.
CNN also reports that the President observed first-hand the destruction caused by Katrina in the Gulf Coast area as his plane overflew the disaster zone for more than half and hour on his way back from Crawford, Texas.
As this story is written, the President has just landed in Washington, D.C. on Air Force One.
CNN also reports that the President observed first-hand the destruction caused by Katrina in the Gulf Coast area as his plane overflew the disaster zone for more than half and hour on his way back from Crawford, Texas.
Absolutism In Politics
There are some folks who believe that the truth is only available to them, and that anyone else who believes otherwise must be either deluded or a liar.
I think that Cindy Sheehan has fallen among these folks, and she herself has become a model of leftists of this particular ilk.
Conservatives by and large do not believe that anyone who disagrees with our views is necessarily "brainwashed" or ill-willed. But liberals of the kind described are not of a similar mind, and they are essentially absolutists in their own way.
I do agree that there are extremists on both sides.
I think that the Rev. Fred Phelps would consider himself a conservative, for example, even though most conservatives believe that has acted reprehensibly in protesting funerals.
By contrast, there are those whose lucid insights never betray a hint of retreat from what may be a position to the left of mine, but whose positions are nonetheless no less reasonable and defensible because of it. My interest is in a sane, rational way of discussion. I believe that both the left and the right have useful roles, and that despite the fact that we can disagree on various issues, we ought not do so in a disagreeable way. "We can disagree without being disagreeable," is the well-known phrase.
If there is a way to come together as a country or continent, surely those of us of such mind should be one of the first to try to do so.
I think that Cindy Sheehan has fallen among these folks, and she herself has become a model of leftists of this particular ilk.
Conservatives by and large do not believe that anyone who disagrees with our views is necessarily "brainwashed" or ill-willed. But liberals of the kind described are not of a similar mind, and they are essentially absolutists in their own way.
I do agree that there are extremists on both sides.
I think that the Rev. Fred Phelps would consider himself a conservative, for example, even though most conservatives believe that has acted reprehensibly in protesting funerals.
By contrast, there are those whose lucid insights never betray a hint of retreat from what may be a position to the left of mine, but whose positions are nonetheless no less reasonable and defensible because of it. My interest is in a sane, rational way of discussion. I believe that both the left and the right have useful roles, and that despite the fact that we can disagree on various issues, we ought not do so in a disagreeable way. "We can disagree without being disagreeable," is the well-known phrase.
If there is a way to come together as a country or continent, surely those of us of such mind should be one of the first to try to do so.
Boeing Mulls Further 787 Investment
Faced with orders totaling around 850, including 256 firm orders, for its brand-new 787 Dreamliner, the Boeing Company is considering plans to expand manufacturing capabilities for the aircraft several years into production. Implementing such an expansion would require a concerted investment effort on the part of Boeing and its suppliers.
For more information, see this source article in Flight International.
For more information, see this source article in Flight International.
China Southern Orders 10 Boeing 787's
The Boeing Company has received an order from China Southern Airlines for ten 787 aircraft, according to MSN News.
The deal is worth up to $1.25 billion at list prices.
For more information, see this story.
The 787 is the next step in airliner evolution. Fuel-efficient and consumer-oriented, it will carry more passengers more comfortably and cost-effectively than any of its competitors. Source: Boeing.com.
The deal is worth up to $1.25 billion at list prices.
For more information, see this story.
The 787 is the next step in airliner evolution. Fuel-efficient and consumer-oriented, it will carry more passengers more comfortably and cost-effectively than any of its competitors. Source: Boeing.com.
U.S. To Tap Oil Reserves
The Bush Administration has decided to release certain quantities of oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve in recognition of current conditions affecting the price of energy, according to Fox News Channel.
Tuesday, August 30, 2005
Received From GOP.com
The following message was received from GOP.com:
Hurricane Katrina has passed and now the people of Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama must begin the process of rebuilding. Our thoughts are with those who were affected by this powerful storm. During times like these, there is no room for politics and partisanship. This is a time when we all come together to help our neighbors.
Due to the size of this storm and the area of impact, the cost for recovery will be staggering. For that reason, we are asking you, our supporters, to make a donation to hurricane relief efforts. The American Red Cross and the Salvation Army provide shelter, food, water, blankets and clothing to those who have lost everything.
We appreciate your willingness to help these groups. Your generosity will help the people impacted by the storm begin the process of rising up and recovering from this disaster.Thanks for all you do.
Hurricane Victims Need Your Help
If you can afford to give assistance to the victims of Hurricane Katrina, please consider donating to the American Red Cross.
Their telephone number is 1-800-HELPNOW.
Or, access their website at http://www.redcross.org.
God bless you.
Their telephone number is 1-800-HELPNOW.
Or, access their website at http://www.redcross.org.
God bless you.
Sheehan's "Human Face"
Some say that Cindy Sheehan has placed a "human face" on the suffering of our troops, or of civilian casualties caused in the Iraq war.
To me, this is a bit like saying that "Hanoi Jane" Fonda put a human face on American war dead when she cavorted with enemy troops during the Vietnam war. It's not true, or at best, it's an incidental benefit that is entirely overwhelmed by other effects.
Jane Fonda's gladhanding among the Viet Cong may have brought attention to the war, but it did far more harm than good. What Sheehan has done is similar in principle -- present the enemy with a propaganda victory on a plate. I can no longer stand by idly while she does this in her patently irrational and destructive way.
Now comes to us news that, Susan Estrich, President Clinton's former campaign manager, has hinted that Sheehan may truly have made anti-Semitic comments, as feared. Sheehan's criticism of Israel and U.S. support for it has apparently been cited with approval by Pat Buchanan and David Duke. Need I really say more?
To me, this is a bit like saying that "Hanoi Jane" Fonda put a human face on American war dead when she cavorted with enemy troops during the Vietnam war. It's not true, or at best, it's an incidental benefit that is entirely overwhelmed by other effects.
Jane Fonda's gladhanding among the Viet Cong may have brought attention to the war, but it did far more harm than good. What Sheehan has done is similar in principle -- present the enemy with a propaganda victory on a plate. I can no longer stand by idly while she does this in her patently irrational and destructive way.
Now comes to us news that, Susan Estrich, President Clinton's former campaign manager, has hinted that Sheehan may truly have made anti-Semitic comments, as feared. Sheehan's criticism of Israel and U.S. support for it has apparently been cited with approval by Pat Buchanan and David Duke. Need I really say more?
The Teflon Candidate
Folks on the left have been scouring over records left over from the Reagan Administration, desperate to find a smoking gun that will aid them in derailing the candidacy of Judge John Roberts. But look though they might, they have found nothing of sufficient weight to allow them to batter down the fortress of solitude that the judge has built around himself.
From all indications, President Bush's candidate for the Supreme Court is a thoughtful, quiet man, which is why some of the memos unearthed by his detractors, such as those criticizing Reagan Administration decisions to meet with the entertainer, Michael Jackson, seem uncharacteristically harsh and outspoken. But even considering these exceptions, Judge Roberts looks to be the silent candidate that has always escaped much notice, except among those who were in a position to recognize and promote his talent.
From his days as a young prep school student, to his days as a law clerk, to his confirmation as U.S. appellate judge, nothing much seemed to faze Mr. Roberts, and nothing distracted from his determination to succeed at what he did.
There are several reasons why John Roberts seems immune from criticism. The first has to do with his unquestionable credentials, all of which suggest that he is a man of substance who succeeded academically beyond what almost any others of his peers were capable. A graduate of Harvard University, he went straight to the top of his class at Harvard Law. It seems that everyone who has ever met him remembers him for his intellect and hard work.
The second reason has to do with his role as a lawyer. Having argued various conservative positions for the Reagan Administration, he also volunteered to promote the cause of group even his detractors would recognize as generally disfavored among many conservatives -- gays who believed that they were being discriminated in housing decisions. This latter he did as a private lawyer pro bono -- for the good of society. What he did was no more or less than what every lawyer does every day of the week: Represent causes to the best of his ability, regardless of whether he himself believed in them. Clearly there is no smoking gun here.
The third reason relates to the mood of the country. While resentment against conservative over-reaching seems a factor in the thoughts of many who oppose the Roberts nomination, the country as a whole is unable to understand why it is that the left finds him so objectionable. Even questions posed about Judge Roberts' beliefs about the rights of privacy raise few red flags, since privacy itself is associated with an obvious agenda on this score -- the endless debate over abortion.
And perhaps this last reason is why opposition to Judge Roberts most likely will fail. For Americans are deeply conflicted over the issue of abortion rights, and despite the belief that the majority of Americans support the right to an abortion, another majority quite arguably opposes the notion of killing the unborn. And since the most vocal opponents of Judge Roberts are those who promote the "choice" to kill the unborn, there is a visceral ambiguity about their cause that bars most of us from supporting the opposition to his nomination on that ground.
When the nomination of Judge Roberts goes before the Senate, accordingly, only the most unexpected charge from left field will stand the chance of stopping it. The left has had weeks to come up with their plan of attack, and from all indications, it is not one that will succeed. Unlike, it might be said, John Roberts himself.
From all indications, President Bush's candidate for the Supreme Court is a thoughtful, quiet man, which is why some of the memos unearthed by his detractors, such as those criticizing Reagan Administration decisions to meet with the entertainer, Michael Jackson, seem uncharacteristically harsh and outspoken. But even considering these exceptions, Judge Roberts looks to be the silent candidate that has always escaped much notice, except among those who were in a position to recognize and promote his talent.
From his days as a young prep school student, to his days as a law clerk, to his confirmation as U.S. appellate judge, nothing much seemed to faze Mr. Roberts, and nothing distracted from his determination to succeed at what he did.
There are several reasons why John Roberts seems immune from criticism. The first has to do with his unquestionable credentials, all of which suggest that he is a man of substance who succeeded academically beyond what almost any others of his peers were capable. A graduate of Harvard University, he went straight to the top of his class at Harvard Law. It seems that everyone who has ever met him remembers him for his intellect and hard work.
The second reason has to do with his role as a lawyer. Having argued various conservative positions for the Reagan Administration, he also volunteered to promote the cause of group even his detractors would recognize as generally disfavored among many conservatives -- gays who believed that they were being discriminated in housing decisions. This latter he did as a private lawyer pro bono -- for the good of society. What he did was no more or less than what every lawyer does every day of the week: Represent causes to the best of his ability, regardless of whether he himself believed in them. Clearly there is no smoking gun here.
The third reason relates to the mood of the country. While resentment against conservative over-reaching seems a factor in the thoughts of many who oppose the Roberts nomination, the country as a whole is unable to understand why it is that the left finds him so objectionable. Even questions posed about Judge Roberts' beliefs about the rights of privacy raise few red flags, since privacy itself is associated with an obvious agenda on this score -- the endless debate over abortion.
And perhaps this last reason is why opposition to Judge Roberts most likely will fail. For Americans are deeply conflicted over the issue of abortion rights, and despite the belief that the majority of Americans support the right to an abortion, another majority quite arguably opposes the notion of killing the unborn. And since the most vocal opponents of Judge Roberts are those who promote the "choice" to kill the unborn, there is a visceral ambiguity about their cause that bars most of us from supporting the opposition to his nomination on that ground.
When the nomination of Judge Roberts goes before the Senate, accordingly, only the most unexpected charge from left field will stand the chance of stopping it. The left has had weeks to come up with their plan of attack, and from all indications, it is not one that will succeed. Unlike, it might be said, John Roberts himself.
Monday, August 29, 2005
Dozens Feared Dead In Katrina's Wake
CNN and other sources report that at least 50 individuals are feared dead as a result of an apartment collapse, flooding, and other causes attributed to Hurricane Katrina.
In fact, as I write, I'm watching the replay of a moving report by an emotional Jeanne Meserve of CNN describing horrific scenes in the aftermath of the hurricane, including those in which police were forced to leave citizens screaming for help.
Meserve described a scene of rescue in which a woman with her legs severed was taken to safety. Others were apparently not so lucky, as police were unable to maneuver their boats to help them.
Video shown during Meserve's live report and interview with host Aaron Brown included a dramatic helicopter rescue by the Coast Guard, images of homes completely flooded up to their rooftops, and the wind-ravaged roof of the SuperDome.
My thoughts and prayers go out to the people of the areas affected.
In fact, as I write, I'm watching the replay of a moving report by an emotional Jeanne Meserve of CNN describing horrific scenes in the aftermath of the hurricane, including those in which police were forced to leave citizens screaming for help.
Meserve described a scene of rescue in which a woman with her legs severed was taken to safety. Others were apparently not so lucky, as police were unable to maneuver their boats to help them.
Video shown during Meserve's live report and interview with host Aaron Brown included a dramatic helicopter rescue by the Coast Guard, images of homes completely flooded up to their rooftops, and the wind-ravaged roof of the SuperDome.
My thoughts and prayers go out to the people of the areas affected.
A Democratic Revival?
I remember a time when the Democratic Party stood for a future of hope and optimism. What distinguished it from its Republican rival was an energetic belief that regardless of the difficulty of any challenge before us, as a united people, we would find a way to conquer it.
This was the Democratic Party of John F. Kennedy. But since then, the Democrats seemingly have found hope an inconvenient impediment to a series of far more technocratic concerns. Arguably, the Democrats lost their hopes around the time that Johnson publicly and emphatically refused to run in 1968. With that decision, even their own leader, the President of the United States, seemed too tired of life to promote the interests of progress. And so there was a sense of deflation, as if air were released from a balloon. In inflationary times, this was doubly vexing.
When Nixon beat Humphrey, it was only the beginning of a long decline for the Democrats on the national level.
Skipping over the obvious case of Carter, whose malaise-ridden legacy ended appropriately enough with a fiasco in a desert both literal and figurative, the next and most recent Democratic President tried to recapture the bright sense of a better future -- even the campaign theme song spoke of a tomorrow that would "soon be here". But his two Presidential terms, too, ended in a degree of failure.
So, what is to be learned from this thumbnail history of America's "other party"?
The lesson is obvious: Avoid malaise. Avoid negativism. Avoid criticism for its own sake.
Present a hopeful tomorrow for the people to consider. Give the people what they want.
Ronald Reagan, a Republican who was once a Democrat, knew what the Democrats have forgotten: It is far better to lead with hope, than with despair.
This was the Democratic Party of John F. Kennedy. But since then, the Democrats seemingly have found hope an inconvenient impediment to a series of far more technocratic concerns. Arguably, the Democrats lost their hopes around the time that Johnson publicly and emphatically refused to run in 1968. With that decision, even their own leader, the President of the United States, seemed too tired of life to promote the interests of progress. And so there was a sense of deflation, as if air were released from a balloon. In inflationary times, this was doubly vexing.
When Nixon beat Humphrey, it was only the beginning of a long decline for the Democrats on the national level.
Skipping over the obvious case of Carter, whose malaise-ridden legacy ended appropriately enough with a fiasco in a desert both literal and figurative, the next and most recent Democratic President tried to recapture the bright sense of a better future -- even the campaign theme song spoke of a tomorrow that would "soon be here". But his two Presidential terms, too, ended in a degree of failure.
So, what is to be learned from this thumbnail history of America's "other party"?
The lesson is obvious: Avoid malaise. Avoid negativism. Avoid criticism for its own sake.
Present a hopeful tomorrow for the people to consider. Give the people what they want.
Ronald Reagan, a Republican who was once a Democrat, knew what the Democrats have forgotten: It is far better to lead with hope, than with despair.
Richard Dawkins' New Book
I recently purchased a copy of Richard Dawkins' new book, The Ancestor's Tale, which one critic said was akin to A Brief History of Time for the evolutionary set.
I haven't read it yet, but I trust it will reinforce my views concerning evolution, which are that it alone is the appropriate theory to teach in science class. The troubling trend toward substituting "creationism" for evolutionary theory promises to muck up the minds of many of America's science students. Perhaps Dawkins will address this trend in his book, directly or otherwise.
Regardless, it seems likely to be a refresher course on why evolution works as a science, and "creationism" does not.
In related news, the University of California has been sued by a group of Christian schools for refusing to consider creation science classes as a fulfillment of its science prerequisites for admission.
At this rate, can a retrial of Scopes be very far behind?
I haven't read it yet, but I trust it will reinforce my views concerning evolution, which are that it alone is the appropriate theory to teach in science class. The troubling trend toward substituting "creationism" for evolutionary theory promises to muck up the minds of many of America's science students. Perhaps Dawkins will address this trend in his book, directly or otherwise.
Regardless, it seems likely to be a refresher course on why evolution works as a science, and "creationism" does not.
In related news, the University of California has been sued by a group of Christian schools for refusing to consider creation science classes as a fulfillment of its science prerequisites for admission.
At this rate, can a retrial of Scopes be very far behind?
A Note On Gas Prices
It's possible that in a short while, I will re-read this message and marvel at how low unleaded was at $2.79 a gallon for regular. Or at $3.05 a gallon for premium. But for now, what I'm more interested in is the fact that "no-name" gasoline outlets actually seem pricier than national brands.
Maybe it's just a regional phenomenon, but the lowest gas prices I've been able to find are at national retailers like Mobil, Chevron, or Shell.
I'd better enjoy it while it lasts.
Maybe it's just a regional phenomenon, but the lowest gas prices I've been able to find are at national retailers like Mobil, Chevron, or Shell.
I'd better enjoy it while it lasts.
Iraq Veteran Starts Counter-Sheehan Campaign
A U.S. veteran of the war in Iraq has launched a campaign to require Cindy Sheehan to meet with him to justify her antiwar political campaign.
For more information, click on the Meet With Hiram website.
Does Cindy Sheehan have the guts to meet with a veteran who stands for exactly the opposite of her antiwar protestations?
I would hope so.
For more information, click on the Meet With Hiram website.
Does Cindy Sheehan have the guts to meet with a veteran who stands for exactly the opposite of her antiwar protestations?
I would hope so.
Hitchens Comments On Sheehan
I have withheld most commentary on Cindy Sheehan's antiwar activities in deference to her status and suffering. After all, there is no denying that her son Casey was and is a hero, and that she is a Gold Star Mother.
However, I heard today that she has criticized other Gold Star Mothers for failing to oppose the war in Iraq. Because Ms. Sheehan believes it appropriate to criticize the positions of others who are of putatively equal moral authority, I feel released from my self-imposed obligation to refrain from remarking upon her own.
Ms. Sheehan's position is evaluated in this article by Christopher Hitchens posted at Slate.com. As I feel that Mr. Hitchens' insights are, as usual, penetrating in regard to the Iraq war, I have provided a link to his comments to give those who may be interested a chance to see that there are other sides to this story than what Ms. Sheehan desires to promote.
However, I heard today that she has criticized other Gold Star Mothers for failing to oppose the war in Iraq. Because Ms. Sheehan believes it appropriate to criticize the positions of others who are of putatively equal moral authority, I feel released from my self-imposed obligation to refrain from remarking upon her own.
Ms. Sheehan's position is evaluated in this article by Christopher Hitchens posted at Slate.com. As I feel that Mr. Hitchens' insights are, as usual, penetrating in regard to the Iraq war, I have provided a link to his comments to give those who may be interested a chance to see that there are other sides to this story than what Ms. Sheehan desires to promote.
Rumors Abound On Possible "Star Trek" Movie
The next Trek movie, if made, may be centered around the beginnings of Star Fleet Academy and feature a more event-oriented story rather than one about a ship on a mission.
This information comes to you courtesy of CanMag.com, which cites two separate sources relating to two different possibilities.
Until confirmed by Paramount Studios, all such information should be considered speculative.
This information comes to you courtesy of CanMag.com, which cites two separate sources relating to two different possibilities.
Until confirmed by Paramount Studios, all such information should be considered speculative.
On My Reading List -- August 29, 2005
I recently purchased Brian Greene's new book, The Fabric of the Cosmos. The book came out in paperback just a short time ago.
It promises to be an interesting analysis of the newest discoveries in cosmology, which has always been a favorite subject of mine.
It promises to be an interesting analysis of the newest discoveries in cosmology, which has always been a favorite subject of mine.
Natural Gas Pipeline Damaged By Katrina
A major natural gas conduit in Louisiana was damaged by Hurricane Katrina, according to a news report.
The resulting reduction in supplies reportedly led to a rise in natural gas prices.
In related news, the price of oil reached $70 per barrel today.
Source: CNN, MSNBC, Fox News Channel.
The resulting reduction in supplies reportedly led to a rise in natural gas prices.
In related news, the price of oil reached $70 per barrel today.
Source: CNN, MSNBC, Fox News Channel.
State Speaks On Iraq, Afghan Women's Rights
The U.S. State Department sent a speaker to a Heritage Foundation panel on women's rights today. Charlotte Ponticelli, a senior coordinator for women's rights, spoke on various subjects including the rights of women in Iraq and Afghanistan.
The speaker mentioned that there were challenges facing women in those countries but said that work was ongoing to preserve and advance those rights.
The Public Health Minister of Afghanistan and others also spoke and took questions at the panel discussion.
Source: C-SPAN.
The speaker mentioned that there were challenges facing women in those countries but said that work was ongoing to preserve and advance those rights.
The Public Health Minister of Afghanistan and others also spoke and took questions at the panel discussion.
Source: C-SPAN.
Sunday, August 28, 2005
Ethiopian Airlines Orders Boeing 787's
Ethiopian Airlines has placed an order for 10 of Boeing's brand-new 787 airliners, sources say.
The 787 Dreamliner has made a strongly favorable impression on airlines worldwide. Boeing has touted the aircraft for its ultramodern design and unprecedented fuel efficiency.
In related news, Boeing unveiled the nose section of the first 787 last Thursday in a ceremony marked with fanfare and celebration. Corporate officials have been pleased with the prospects for the new plane, whose launch is off to a strong start with the receipt of hundreds of confirmed orders over the past few years.
For more information, see: Boeing.com.
The 787 Dreamliner has made a strongly favorable impression on airlines worldwide. Boeing has touted the aircraft for its ultramodern design and unprecedented fuel efficiency.
In related news, Boeing unveiled the nose section of the first 787 last Thursday in a ceremony marked with fanfare and celebration. Corporate officials have been pleased with the prospects for the new plane, whose launch is off to a strong start with the receipt of hundreds of confirmed orders over the past few years.
For more information, see: Boeing.com.
C-SPAN Airs John Roberts Recollections
C-SPAN is airing a series of interviews about John Roberts, nominee for the U.S. Supreme Court.^1
Interviewed this hour were a former room-mate and a close law school friend of the federal judge, as well as a former law partner.
Both appeared to offer high praise for Judge Roberts.
All is on track for a successful confirmation at the hearings in the Senate that are about to occur.
For his part, the candidate has been preparing for the hearings by subjecting himself to so-called "murder boards" in which various high-powered individuals play the parts of crucial U.S. Senators.^2
Sources:
1. C-SPAN (nonprofit cable network)
2. Newsweek magazine.
Interviewed this hour were a former room-mate and a close law school friend of the federal judge, as well as a former law partner.
Both appeared to offer high praise for Judge Roberts.
All is on track for a successful confirmation at the hearings in the Senate that are about to occur.
For his part, the candidate has been preparing for the hearings by subjecting himself to so-called "murder boards" in which various high-powered individuals play the parts of crucial U.S. Senators.^2
Sources:
1. C-SPAN (nonprofit cable network)
2. Newsweek magazine.
New Orleans Says Residents Must Leave
Authorities in New Orleans issued a declaration moments ago requiring all residents to evacuate the city in anticipation of Hurricane Katrina. Exceptions were listed exempting essential emergency and other personnel.
News sources previously said that for those who cannot leave, the SuperDome may be considered a refuge of last resort.
For the last day, outward-bound residents have jammed area highways in an effort to vacate the city.
Sources consulted: CNN, MSNBC, Fox News Channel.
News sources previously said that for those who cannot leave, the SuperDome may be considered a refuge of last resort.
For the last day, outward-bound residents have jammed area highways in an effort to vacate the city.
Sources consulted: CNN, MSNBC, Fox News Channel.
Saturday, August 27, 2005
Providing For Posterity
Posterity. What an old-fashioned concept. Is it any longer relevant in an age of preoccupation with the self? Live for the moment, it is sometimes urged. Eat, drink, and be merry, for tomorrow we die.
There is a fine balance between enjoying the moment and providing for the future. There are times when I think that living for tomorrow simply takes away from living for today. What is tomorrow, but today, once removed?
There is a fine balance between enjoying the moment and providing for the future. There are times when I think that living for tomorrow simply takes away from living for today. What is tomorrow, but today, once removed?
Or What Else Is Heaven For?
The gulf between human beings and other animals is truly astounding. Even the most intelligent of non-human beings seems nothing more than a handicapped child when we put them to tests of cognition.
It is already possible, however, to simulate the look and behavior of human beings using computer gaming devices. The simulation of motive and recognition, will and emotion, and all the other things that are associated with humanity, may yet be the fruit of research into artificial intelligence.
The logical outgrowth of this simulation is the ability to supervene humanity, and to overcome our own limitations as a species.
If this is true, then advancing computer technology to the state of humanity may only be the beginning, and not the ending, of understanding.
Imagine a network of human-scaled artificial minds, able to live forever, resident in cyberspace, reaching every problem that ever occupied mortal minds. Imagine such a mind improving itself, grasping the answers to problems we have not yet even begun to see. Is such a mind possible?
This is a philosophical problem more than a technical one. Technology is not yet to the point where the issue is real. But it is an interesting question nonetheless, and one with profound implications for whether humanity can move beyond a threshold we dare not imagine.
It is already possible, however, to simulate the look and behavior of human beings using computer gaming devices. The simulation of motive and recognition, will and emotion, and all the other things that are associated with humanity, may yet be the fruit of research into artificial intelligence.
The logical outgrowth of this simulation is the ability to supervene humanity, and to overcome our own limitations as a species.
If this is true, then advancing computer technology to the state of humanity may only be the beginning, and not the ending, of understanding.
Imagine a network of human-scaled artificial minds, able to live forever, resident in cyberspace, reaching every problem that ever occupied mortal minds. Imagine such a mind improving itself, grasping the answers to problems we have not yet even begun to see. Is such a mind possible?
This is a philosophical problem more than a technical one. Technology is not yet to the point where the issue is real. But it is an interesting question nonetheless, and one with profound implications for whether humanity can move beyond a threshold we dare not imagine.
The Boundaries Of The Heart
Looking down on Earth, the Apollo astronauts marveled at the beauty of our home planet. From this distance, they said, there were no national boundaries. Mankind was united in its common occupancy of a blue oasis, floating ceaselessly in an infinite void.
What they could not see was the boundaries of the heart, the love and hate that moves men to do what we do, to advance our own interests, to get what we do not have, or do not deserve.
The lines dividing nation from nation would not exist if human beings did not believe that they must. But believe, we must.
The imposition of boundaries from our deepest desires means nothing to the universe. It moves along, organically, blindly without us, and if all of humanity disappeared today, the universe would not care. It would not know. It would not even begin to perceive.
We perceive for the universe. We impose our will upon it. We impose our hurt, our sadness, our fears, our insecurities, upon electronic fields made real.
The lines that divide us start with each of us, and they end when our hearts change, for the better.
What they could not see was the boundaries of the heart, the love and hate that moves men to do what we do, to advance our own interests, to get what we do not have, or do not deserve.
The lines dividing nation from nation would not exist if human beings did not believe that they must. But believe, we must.
The imposition of boundaries from our deepest desires means nothing to the universe. It moves along, organically, blindly without us, and if all of humanity disappeared today, the universe would not care. It would not know. It would not even begin to perceive.
We perceive for the universe. We impose our will upon it. We impose our hurt, our sadness, our fears, our insecurities, upon electronic fields made real.
The lines that divide us start with each of us, and they end when our hearts change, for the better.
Friday, August 26, 2005
Global Cataclysm Depicted On Science Channel
Discovery ran an interesting program today in which it depicted, in gory detail, the effect of a large meteoric impact upon the Earth.
What shocked me was that, according to the program, such an impact would essentially boil off the oceans and turn the entire surface of the Earth into molten rock.
The size of the meteor in question was apparently the length of the country of Japan.
Let's start looking out for these planetkillers, shall we?
What shocked me was that, according to the program, such an impact would essentially boil off the oceans and turn the entire surface of the Earth into molten rock.
The size of the meteor in question was apparently the length of the country of Japan.
Let's start looking out for these planetkillers, shall we?
Should Dallas Cater To Spanish-Speaking?
CNN's Lou Dobbs program presented a short debate between a Dallas school administrator who vigorously defended his district's decision to teach its principals Spanish, and a representative of U.S. English, who opposed it.
The rationale presented by the Dallas official was that schools needed to be more "customer service" oriented and that speaking to parents in Spanish -- their native tongue -- would enhance this mission.
I agree with the opposite view, however. Students and parents should be expected to learn to speak English, so long as they remain in this country.
The rationale presented by the Dallas official was that schools needed to be more "customer service" oriented and that speaking to parents in Spanish -- their native tongue -- would enhance this mission.
I agree with the opposite view, however. Students and parents should be expected to learn to speak English, so long as they remain in this country.
CNN Reports On President's Poll Numbers
Bill Schneider of CNN presented a short piece on President Bush's falling poll numbers today. It aired on CNN Headline News and on CNN's main cable channel, more than once.
Why was this news so widely reported?
Poll numbers count because they might be harbingers of the next Congressional election.
As far as the President is concerned, however, poll numbers may not matter much. He seems much more of a man of principle than polls.
Why was this news so widely reported?
Poll numbers count because they might be harbingers of the next Congressional election.
As far as the President is concerned, however, poll numbers may not matter much. He seems much more of a man of principle than polls.
Thursday, August 25, 2005
Martha Stewart To Return To Television
Slobs of the world, beware! The doyenne of domesticity, as they call her, is about to return to the small screen. And the walls have (tastefully adorned) eyes.
Yes, friends and neighbors, the news is that Martha Stewart will make a triumphant television return with a show about home-making, complete with a live studio audience. Not content to putter around in her corporate home, she is destined to retake the reins of fate and splash across America's plasma screens with her characteristic considerable redoubt.
Never count that woman out, is what I say. Even the Feds can't dampen her enthusiasm for... whatever it is she does. Make money, I suppose. Because make no mistake about it, her name is still valuable, in a country where what you did yesterday is less important than what you can do for me now.
Is this good for America? Why? Why not? Who knows?
But one thing's for sure: It's a Martha thing.
Yes, friends and neighbors, the news is that Martha Stewart will make a triumphant television return with a show about home-making, complete with a live studio audience. Not content to putter around in her corporate home, she is destined to retake the reins of fate and splash across America's plasma screens with her characteristic considerable redoubt.
Never count that woman out, is what I say. Even the Feds can't dampen her enthusiasm for... whatever it is she does. Make money, I suppose. Because make no mistake about it, her name is still valuable, in a country where what you did yesterday is less important than what you can do for me now.
Is this good for America? Why? Why not? Who knows?
But one thing's for sure: It's a Martha thing.
Is Compromise A Learned Trait?
Who could fail to be frustrated that the plan for Iraqis to form their first postwar constitution has met with deadlock after deadlock, necessitating extension after extension of deadlines for completion? The best-laid plans of mice and men....
But in our least placid moments, one must consider that democracy is a difficult thing, and so therefore is compromise. Politics can sometimes be a matter of exquisitely painful delicacy. It is, as they say, the art of the possible.
It should come as no surprise to us that in a land where democracy was suppressed for so long, extreme desires overwhelm the willingness to accommodate interests other than one's own.
Give the Iraqis time. Despite the hurry that we all seem to be in, time for the newcomer to learn is something that the world can still afford, such is the value of democratic governance everywhere. Let's give democracy its due in Iraq.
But in our least placid moments, one must consider that democracy is a difficult thing, and so therefore is compromise. Politics can sometimes be a matter of exquisitely painful delicacy. It is, as they say, the art of the possible.
It should come as no surprise to us that in a land where democracy was suppressed for so long, extreme desires overwhelm the willingness to accommodate interests other than one's own.
Give the Iraqis time. Despite the hurry that we all seem to be in, time for the newcomer to learn is something that the world can still afford, such is the value of democratic governance everywhere. Let's give democracy its due in Iraq.
The Panda's Tail
News reports suggest that there is a "panda boom" of sorts, judging from the recent births of the bears in zoos in Washington, D.C. and San Diego, California. While pandas are still considered endangered, the small, wriggly products of conservation efforts in Chinese and American zoos are encouraging signs that work to preserve the species is succeeding.
One thing that has struck me about panda cubs is the fact that their tails are disproportionately long. They will grow into them, zoologists explained, and as older individuals, their tails will be relatively short by comparison to the rest of the panda.
Helpless little creatures, the cubs are. And by and large, their mothers are nurturing types, feeding and protecting them and providing for their every need.
It seems to me that panda tails are a bit like pandas themselves. Both are expectantly there, and both will eventually become the kind they are destined to be, if given half the chance.
One thing that has struck me about panda cubs is the fact that their tails are disproportionately long. They will grow into them, zoologists explained, and as older individuals, their tails will be relatively short by comparison to the rest of the panda.
Helpless little creatures, the cubs are. And by and large, their mothers are nurturing types, feeding and protecting them and providing for their every need.
It seems to me that panda tails are a bit like pandas themselves. Both are expectantly there, and both will eventually become the kind they are destined to be, if given half the chance.
Klingon Will Endure, Says Rushdie
The new TIME magazine packs an interview with Salman Rushdie, whom some may remember was the subject of a rather unwelcome edict from religious authorities some decades ago.
Rushdie, it says, believes that the language "Klingon" may endure for longer than we might think.
"Klingon", as in Star Trek.
And so, it is properly the attention of a Salman Rushdie, concerned as he is with reality? One may be astonished that such ideas pass his muster. Let's all stipulate that "Klingon" is an artificial language. But then again, so is Esperanto. And dare I say that Esperanto was, and is, geekier than Klingon ever was.
If Rushdie believes that Klingon will endure as a language, as he says, one might ask why.
Klingons are warriors, who believe in nobility. Klingons are our version of the Vikings, whose Valhalla is the Klingon's great hall of the afterlife. They are unabashed in their worship of the martial arts, but equally brash in their adherence to honor, or at least their avocation of same.
And I would submit that this is the possible reason that Klingons may survive as a concept for longer than we might think. They are part of an archetype of the unrefined hero -- the anti-hero, even, or a race of James Deans in space-age garb.
If James Dean lived today, I think he would be the ideal Klingon.
It would be a most honorable role.
Rushdie, it says, believes that the language "Klingon" may endure for longer than we might think.
"Klingon", as in Star Trek.
And so, it is properly the attention of a Salman Rushdie, concerned as he is with reality? One may be astonished that such ideas pass his muster. Let's all stipulate that "Klingon" is an artificial language. But then again, so is Esperanto. And dare I say that Esperanto was, and is, geekier than Klingon ever was.
If Rushdie believes that Klingon will endure as a language, as he says, one might ask why.
Klingons are warriors, who believe in nobility. Klingons are our version of the Vikings, whose Valhalla is the Klingon's great hall of the afterlife. They are unabashed in their worship of the martial arts, but equally brash in their adherence to honor, or at least their avocation of same.
And I would submit that this is the possible reason that Klingons may survive as a concept for longer than we might think. They are part of an archetype of the unrefined hero -- the anti-hero, even, or a race of James Deans in space-age garb.
If James Dean lived today, I think he would be the ideal Klingon.
It would be a most honorable role.
The Soundtrack Of Your Life
"November Rain" from Guns 'N' Roses was playing last night on 93.1 FM in Los Angeles. It bears noting that the station's new "Jack" format has been adopted by at least one competitor -- K-BIG -- previously deemed (by yours truly), a safe alternative to Muzak. Muzak for the caffeine set, suitable for office work. No more.
"Jack" is something else entirely.
I suppose what appeals to me about "November Rain" is its massive coda. The piece ends falsely, and then continues into a good two minutes of a rock bash that sings bravely, heavily, of the need to love. That November rains end is not the ending; the need endures, and the drive continues.
GNR is known for hard rock, for cynicism, for a bit of near-obscene musical savagery that suggest -- no, screams -- sex, if not drugs. Anyone who listens to the group's second wave -- "Use Your Illusion" I & II -- would agree, particularly as to the relatively unplayable tracks. Who invites you to "do it"? Who isn't satisfied with "some pain"?
But GNR is properly credited with depth, and its "November Rain" is often said to be the best of its ballads.
We haven't heard much from Axl and the gang lately; perhaps we never will. But to many, its songs are the soundtrack to life, reminiscent of times gone by.
Music is the fire in which we burn.
"Jack" is something else entirely.
I suppose what appeals to me about "November Rain" is its massive coda. The piece ends falsely, and then continues into a good two minutes of a rock bash that sings bravely, heavily, of the need to love. That November rains end is not the ending; the need endures, and the drive continues.
GNR is known for hard rock, for cynicism, for a bit of near-obscene musical savagery that suggest -- no, screams -- sex, if not drugs. Anyone who listens to the group's second wave -- "Use Your Illusion" I & II -- would agree, particularly as to the relatively unplayable tracks. Who invites you to "do it"? Who isn't satisfied with "some pain"?
But GNR is properly credited with depth, and its "November Rain" is often said to be the best of its ballads.
We haven't heard much from Axl and the gang lately; perhaps we never will. But to many, its songs are the soundtrack to life, reminiscent of times gone by.
Music is the fire in which we burn.
Life Without New "Star Trek"
For all the negative comments about Trek, a major element of its enduring appeal is now gone. That element is the production of new stories about an intrepid crew from our future, doing things that no one has ever done before.
From its founding, America has been on a trek of its own. It's blazed new trails into the future, becoming a new Greece, a new Roman Republic, a new embodiment of great ideals.
And for the past four decades, in this sense, Trek has been America's America, in much the same way as California has been the new American Dream for those who already live the original one.
In Trek's place, we have darker shows, whose ironic sense of beleaguerment invite sympathy, perhaps, more than inspiration.
All things have a time and place, and all good things must pass. It is my hope and belief that Trek's time is not past. It is, after all, about the future.
From its founding, America has been on a trek of its own. It's blazed new trails into the future, becoming a new Greece, a new Roman Republic, a new embodiment of great ideals.
And for the past four decades, in this sense, Trek has been America's America, in much the same way as California has been the new American Dream for those who already live the original one.
In Trek's place, we have darker shows, whose ironic sense of beleaguerment invite sympathy, perhaps, more than inspiration.
All things have a time and place, and all good things must pass. It is my hope and belief that Trek's time is not past. It is, after all, about the future.
Tuesday, August 23, 2005
Science And The Unscientific
Imagine, if you will, a world where scientific achievement was considered the pinnacle of personal success.
I think you'd have to do a lot of imagining, because such a world is nowhere near reality. At best, the egghead is considered a nerd or a geek in society today; at worse, a social outcast.
And yet science is the lifesblood of invention and progress in the physical realm. Feelings took a distant third to perspiration and inspiration to Edison, and doubtlessly, they take a distant fourth to the knowledge that allowed Edison reify his inspiration to begin with.
I read today that America is lagging behind in the production of graduates with advanced degrees in the sciences. And the question occurs to me: Have we become complacent about our leadership in the sciences? It's a valid question, and not one whose answers are entirely comforting.
I think you'd have to do a lot of imagining, because such a world is nowhere near reality. At best, the egghead is considered a nerd or a geek in society today; at worse, a social outcast.
And yet science is the lifesblood of invention and progress in the physical realm. Feelings took a distant third to perspiration and inspiration to Edison, and doubtlessly, they take a distant fourth to the knowledge that allowed Edison reify his inspiration to begin with.
I read today that America is lagging behind in the production of graduates with advanced degrees in the sciences. And the question occurs to me: Have we become complacent about our leadership in the sciences? It's a valid question, and not one whose answers are entirely comforting.
Why Famous People Say Dumb Things
Yes, by now everyone and his brother has heard, read, or seen the Rev. Pat Robertson's remark about assassination. But did the media cover Howard Dean's recent remarks which outraged Republicans all over the country? Not to the same extent, I would say.
Public figures have a habit of putting their foot firmly in their mouths. It must be an oral thing.
Ho-hum.
Public figures have a habit of putting their foot firmly in their mouths. It must be an oral thing.
Ho-hum.
Rita Cosby: Taped And Indirect
I'm watching the Rita Cosby show on MSNBC, and because of the time, I'm fairly sure that it's not being cablecast live.
There is another reason that this Fox transplant fails to impress me, however, and that has everything to do with the soft nature of the news on her show. The Natalie Holloway story was yet again given prominence; and thereafter, it was Robert Blake's video deposition.
Enough soft stories already. Let's deal with some serious issues.
There is another reason that this Fox transplant fails to impress me, however, and that has everything to do with the soft nature of the news on her show. The Natalie Holloway story was yet again given prominence; and thereafter, it was Robert Blake's video deposition.
Enough soft stories already. Let's deal with some serious issues.
Monday, August 22, 2005
Mars Rover Spies "Dust Devils"
NASA's Mars Exploration Rover Spirit has photographed several "dust devils" coursing across that planet's ruddy surface, reports say.
For example, see this article in USA Today.
Events on other planets have a certain static quality to them, since they are captured so infrequently and seem to be relics of the past. Exceptions are such things as the Moon's phases and, particularly, the impact of Comet Shoemaker-Levy on Jupiter. Another example is the recent brilliant run-in between a NASA impactor and Comet Tempel 1.
Seeing things like whirlwinds on another planet reminds us that the ways of other worlds aren't always as strange as they seem, and that in a geologic sense, life goes on in the Solar System regardless of whether humans see them.
Pictures like the ones taken by NASA's Rover at Gusev Crater remind us of our place on Earth, and are uplifting and humbling at the same time. Not bad for a probe named "Spirit".
For example, see this article in USA Today.
Events on other planets have a certain static quality to them, since they are captured so infrequently and seem to be relics of the past. Exceptions are such things as the Moon's phases and, particularly, the impact of Comet Shoemaker-Levy on Jupiter. Another example is the recent brilliant run-in between a NASA impactor and Comet Tempel 1.
Seeing things like whirlwinds on another planet reminds us that the ways of other worlds aren't always as strange as they seem, and that in a geologic sense, life goes on in the Solar System regardless of whether humans see them.
Pictures like the ones taken by NASA's Rover at Gusev Crater remind us of our place on Earth, and are uplifting and humbling at the same time. Not bad for a probe named "Spirit".
Tucker Carlson Covers UFO's
Tucker Carlson's The Situation on MSNBC led with a feature on UFO's today. Specifically, the question was whether they were really aliens from another planet. During the story, Carlson interviewed the chief of a clearinghouse for information on UFO sightings.
Carlson surprised me when he said that he had never heard of the term "ufology" until his guest used it on his show. I've never seen Carlson as particularly intellectual, despite his bow tie. However, "ufology" is hardly an uncommon or unusual word.
The story pointed out the fact that stories on UFO's are not given much credence by the news media. When questioned on why this was so, the guest did not seem to know. Perhaps one answer is a comment made by Carlson's co-host, whose reaction to the interview was surprise that the interviewee seemed so down-to-Earth.
But then, of course, there is the issue of plain old ignorance.
Carlson surprised me when he said that he had never heard of the term "ufology" until his guest used it on his show. I've never seen Carlson as particularly intellectual, despite his bow tie. However, "ufology" is hardly an uncommon or unusual word.
The story pointed out the fact that stories on UFO's are not given much credence by the news media. When questioned on why this was so, the guest did not seem to know. Perhaps one answer is a comment made by Carlson's co-host, whose reaction to the interview was surprise that the interviewee seemed so down-to-Earth.
But then, of course, there is the issue of plain old ignorance.
Helios Plane Sent Mayday Before Crash
According to recent reports, the Helios Airways aircraft that crashed in Greece sent an emergency "mayday" signal seconds before it crashed.
This indicates that there was at least one survivor aboard the craft until the moment of impact.
The news has been relatively scarce concerning the results of so-called "black box" flight recorder data. There had been fears that all the critical information concerning the aircraft had been erased because the black box contains a loop-style tape and therefore could have overwritten evidence of events early in the flight that could have caused the aircraft to crash. However, if there was indeed activity in the cockpit until shortly before the accident, then the recorder might yield information of interest after all.
Although a slow leak in cabin pressure has been identified by authorities as a cause, presumably leading to some form of incapacitation of the pilots that caused the aircraft to run out of fuel and crash while on autopilot, an official report on the cause of the accident has not been issued.
This indicates that there was at least one survivor aboard the craft until the moment of impact.
The news has been relatively scarce concerning the results of so-called "black box" flight recorder data. There had been fears that all the critical information concerning the aircraft had been erased because the black box contains a loop-style tape and therefore could have overwritten evidence of events early in the flight that could have caused the aircraft to crash. However, if there was indeed activity in the cockpit until shortly before the accident, then the recorder might yield information of interest after all.
Although a slow leak in cabin pressure has been identified by authorities as a cause, presumably leading to some form of incapacitation of the pilots that caused the aircraft to run out of fuel and crash while on autopilot, an official report on the cause of the accident has not been issued.
Sunday, August 21, 2005
Crowds Cheer Pope Benedict XVI
A mass audience at the World Youth Day celebrations in Cologne greeted Pope Benedict XVI with enthusiasm today, according to a news report.
The event was considered a celebration of two Popes -- the late John Paul II as well as Benedict XVI. Members of the audience said they appreciated that there were differences between the two Pontiffs but did not let this fact dampen their obvious affection for their native son.
Source: CNN Headline News.
The event was considered a celebration of two Popes -- the late John Paul II as well as Benedict XVI. Members of the audience said they appreciated that there were differences between the two Pontiffs but did not let this fact dampen their obvious affection for their native son.
Source: CNN Headline News.
Scientists Ponder Bioethics Of Creating Life
I read in a recent article that biologists are now capable of creating living things from inanimate constituent elements. Call it "designer life".
The horrors of unnatural creation have always had a hold on our imagination. But somehow I'm convinced that author Mary Shelley would not recognize this new technology. Forget Frankenstein -- it's Frankenstein bugs that we should worry about. "Bugs", as in viruses or bacteria specifically engineered to survive any natural antidote.
Scientists are worried that the means to create new life could be used for criminal purposes. Imagine, for example, a pandemic caused by a virus that cannot be stopped, because it was invented specifically for that purpose.
This is a public issue to trump all public issues. Bioethicists and the American people alike have a vested interest in keeping the associated dangers at bay. And so, I ask, when will we have serious debates about such issues in our hallowed halls of Congress?
The horrors of unnatural creation have always had a hold on our imagination. But somehow I'm convinced that author Mary Shelley would not recognize this new technology. Forget Frankenstein -- it's Frankenstein bugs that we should worry about. "Bugs", as in viruses or bacteria specifically engineered to survive any natural antidote.
Scientists are worried that the means to create new life could be used for criminal purposes. Imagine, for example, a pandemic caused by a virus that cannot be stopped, because it was invented specifically for that purpose.
This is a public issue to trump all public issues. Bioethicists and the American people alike have a vested interest in keeping the associated dangers at bay. And so, I ask, when will we have serious debates about such issues in our hallowed halls of Congress?
New Book Covers Apollo Astronauts
Alone among a select company of heroes, the astronauts of the Apollo moon missions are held in perpetual high regard, and now there is a book specifically about the last living men ever to have touched the surface of Earth's only natural satellite.
Andrew Smith's Moondust: In Search of the Men Who Fell to Earth is the story of the bittersweet end of America's ambitions beyond low Earth orbit, according to critic Frank D. Roylance.
For his interesting review, read this article from BaltimoreSun.com.
Andrew Smith's Moondust: In Search of the Men Who Fell to Earth is the story of the bittersweet end of America's ambitions beyond low Earth orbit, according to critic Frank D. Roylance.
For his interesting review, read this article from BaltimoreSun.com.
Michael Okuda Joins "Star Trek Online"
According to this article, veteran technical consultant Michael Okuda will design elements of Star Trek Online, a new computer game based in the Star Trek universe.
Mr. Okuda was the talent behind much of the look and feel of the various Trek series, including in particular such familiar effects as futuristic computer interfaces and readouts. He is the official archivist for many technical aspects of the various series, having co-authored a hefty encyclopedia of facts and trivia spanning four decades of the franchise.
I look forward to this new multiplayer online game and wish it much success.
Mr. Okuda was the talent behind much of the look and feel of the various Trek series, including in particular such familiar effects as futuristic computer interfaces and readouts. He is the official archivist for many technical aspects of the various series, having co-authored a hefty encyclopedia of facts and trivia spanning four decades of the franchise.
I look forward to this new multiplayer online game and wish it much success.
Saturday, August 20, 2005
Pixar's Joe Ranft Killed In Car Crash
Tragedy struck off the coast of California when Joe Ranft, the voice of several beloved animated characters and the head writer at Hollywood's award-winning Pixar animation studio, was killed in a traffic accident.
Mr. Ranft, who as writer was credited with a number of Pixar's cinematic hits, died when the vehicle he was in plunged more than a hundred feet off a coastal highway. Also dead was the driver of the Honda Element carrying him and another passenger, who survived the accident.
For more information, read this story.
My deepest condolences to Mr. Ranft's family and friends.
One of his characters, Hemlich the Caterpillar, was my favorite character in A Bug's Life. That movie, which I've always enjoyed, will never be quite the same to me.
May Mr. Ranft rest in peace.
Mr. Ranft, who as writer was credited with a number of Pixar's cinematic hits, died when the vehicle he was in plunged more than a hundred feet off a coastal highway. Also dead was the driver of the Honda Element carrying him and another passenger, who survived the accident.
For more information, read this story.
My deepest condolences to Mr. Ranft's family and friends.
One of his characters, Hemlich the Caterpillar, was my favorite character in A Bug's Life. That movie, which I've always enjoyed, will never be quite the same to me.
May Mr. Ranft rest in peace.
Democratic Senate Leader Suffers Stroke
U.S. Sen. Harry Reid of Nevada has suffered a mild stroke, reports say.
The Senator has been an outspoken proponent of Democratic positions in the Senate.
A proud son of working-class parents, he has risen to become one of the most powerful men in America.
Please say a prayer for Sen. Reid -- clearly a man of strong conviction.
Source of news: SFGate story.
The Senator has been an outspoken proponent of Democratic positions in the Senate.
A proud son of working-class parents, he has risen to become one of the most powerful men in America.
Please say a prayer for Sen. Reid -- clearly a man of strong conviction.
Source of news: SFGate story.
Border Police Initiative Seeks Support
Heard on KFI-AM:
The group behind "Save Our License" has crafted another popular initiative worth the attention of those who worry about our borders.
The site, CaliforniaBorderPolice.com, presents the interested citizen with all the information he or she needs to decide whether to let a crisis of illegal immigration flood our State, or sit up, take note, and actually do something about it.
I've decided to lend my support to the initiative and encourage like-minded individuals to do the same.
Please view the site for yourself. California Border Police needs your consideration.
The group behind "Save Our License" has crafted another popular initiative worth the attention of those who worry about our borders.
The site, CaliforniaBorderPolice.com, presents the interested citizen with all the information he or she needs to decide whether to let a crisis of illegal immigration flood our State, or sit up, take note, and actually do something about it.
I've decided to lend my support to the initiative and encourage like-minded individuals to do the same.
Please view the site for yourself. California Border Police needs your consideration.
Investing In Wholesome Entertainment
I've decided to put my money down on wholesome entertainment.
Amidst all the smut that populates our airwaves, are good shows and wonderful entertainment that needs the support of people who support mainstream values.
I'm glad to be one of those who have decided to promote the shows we believe in.
Amidst all the smut that populates our airwaves, are good shows and wonderful entertainment that needs the support of people who support mainstream values.
I'm glad to be one of those who have decided to promote the shows we believe in.
"Red Eye" Impresses Critics
I'm currently watching MSNBC's movie show, hosted by Sharon Tay, a former KTLA anchor. Peter Travers and Jeffrey Lyons have given Red Eye excellent reviews, and have praised it as a thriller worth watching.
Airline passengers might want to watch it with a friend!
Airline passengers might want to watch it with a friend!
Friday, August 19, 2005
Helios Plane Makes Emergency Landing
BBC reports that an aircraft operated by Helios Airways made an emergency landing today because of the pilot's fears concerning its flaps. The report says that it was later found that the flaps were operating normally.
Source: BBC article.
Helios is the airline that has received much grief lately not only because of the recent Cypriot crash, in which 121 passengers and crew aboard one of its 737 aircraft were killed, but because of alleged maintenance-related issues expressed by various passengers and at least one former employee.
It should not be surprising that the pilot diverted his flight today in view of this state of high tension.
Source: BBC article.
Helios is the airline that has received much grief lately not only because of the recent Cypriot crash, in which 121 passengers and crew aboard one of its 737 aircraft were killed, but because of alleged maintenance-related issues expressed by various passengers and at least one former employee.
It should not be surprising that the pilot diverted his flight today in view of this state of high tension.
Rockets Land Near U.S. Warship
Several rockets were fired from Jordan at a port between Jordan and Israel, according to CNN.
The rockets landed near a U.S. warship but apparently caused no damage or injury to the vessel or its occupants. However, CNN reports that a Jordanian soldier was killed in the attacks.
More as events may warrant.
The rockets landed near a U.S. warship but apparently caused no damage or injury to the vessel or its occupants. However, CNN reports that a Jordanian soldier was killed in the attacks.
More as events may warrant.
FBI To Investigate LAPD Shooting
The attorney for the family of a man whose infant daughter was fatally shot in his stand-off with the Los Angeles Police Department on July 10 has succeeded in his efforts to secure an FBI probe of the incident. The family reportedly sought the federal agency's intervention because it believed that the LAPD could not be sufficiently objective in its own investigation.
It was widely reported that the father was using his own infant daughter as a "human shield". The LAPD has not denied that the infant was shot by police during the incident. There have been accusations that the family is seeking publicity and preparing for a possible civil rights lawsuit.
Throughout all of this, it should be kept in mind that if the facts show that the father used his own daughter to protect himself during the shoot-out, as claimed by the LAPD, then the police might have done all it could to avoid injuring her and caused the death despite its best efforts.
There is no reason to fear an independent probe into the facts if there is nothing to hide, but by the same token, any future compensation should be firmly grounded in what was reasonable under the circumstances as determined by the FBI investigation and other objective analyses. One could hardly ask for much more, or less.
It was widely reported that the father was using his own infant daughter as a "human shield". The LAPD has not denied that the infant was shot by police during the incident. There have been accusations that the family is seeking publicity and preparing for a possible civil rights lawsuit.
Throughout all of this, it should be kept in mind that if the facts show that the father used his own daughter to protect himself during the shoot-out, as claimed by the LAPD, then the police might have done all it could to avoid injuring her and caused the death despite its best efforts.
There is no reason to fear an independent probe into the facts if there is nothing to hide, but by the same token, any future compensation should be firmly grounded in what was reasonable under the circumstances as determined by the FBI investigation and other objective analyses. One could hardly ask for much more, or less.
NASA Delays Next Shuttle Launch
According to news reports published yesterday, NASA has decided to postpone the next launch of the Shuttle to March, 2006. NASA has also decided to fly the Discovery again in lieu of Atlantis as had been previously planned.
The date was announced on the same day that NASA received scathing criticism from an oversight committee minority report on its performance in repairing the Shuttle system since the loss of the Columbia in 2003. Although individual statements by committee chairpersons were more positive and the majority report released in June found that NASA had substantially reduced flight risks, the minority statement castigated the space agency for having made the same mistakes since the Columbia accident that led up to the February, 2003 disaster.
The rationale given for the launch delay was that NASA needed a "conservative" timeframe in to investigate the causes of and presumably repair problems with the Shuttle's External Tank, which had lost an alarming quantity of foam during the last launch, including a particular chunk weighing about a pound that fell off when Discovery was relatively high in the atmosphere. The destruction of Columbia was traced to a falling chunk of foam of similar size that punctured the ship's wing nearer to its launch, allowing hot gases to enter the vehicle during its re-entry.
Sources consulted: Radio, television, and Internet news reports.
The date was announced on the same day that NASA received scathing criticism from an oversight committee minority report on its performance in repairing the Shuttle system since the loss of the Columbia in 2003. Although individual statements by committee chairpersons were more positive and the majority report released in June found that NASA had substantially reduced flight risks, the minority statement castigated the space agency for having made the same mistakes since the Columbia accident that led up to the February, 2003 disaster.
The rationale given for the launch delay was that NASA needed a "conservative" timeframe in to investigate the causes of and presumably repair problems with the Shuttle's External Tank, which had lost an alarming quantity of foam during the last launch, including a particular chunk weighing about a pound that fell off when Discovery was relatively high in the atmosphere. The destruction of Columbia was traced to a falling chunk of foam of similar size that punctured the ship's wing nearer to its launch, allowing hot gases to enter the vehicle during its re-entry.
Sources consulted: Radio, television, and Internet news reports.
Afghanistan As Red Herring
An argument often advanced against U.S. involvement in Iraq is that Afghanistan remains unfinished business. Some have gone so far as to imply that the U.S. has withdrawn all its forces from Afghanistan and used them instead in Iraq.
Some of these critics are the same ones who say that the U.S. has not put enough troops in Iraq.
But the facts reveal that there remain sizable U.S. and Allied troops in Afghanistan. Further, it is not clear that the kind of troops and equipment deployed in Iraq would have been appropriate in Afghanistan.
In this, the experience of the Soviets is instructive. The Soviets spent many years in Afghanistan, only to become bogged down despite a commitment of thousands of soldiers and their equipment. No matter how many troops there are on the ground, mere numbers are not a guarantee of success.
On the other hand, few could dispute that there is a new government in Afghanistan and that the main goals of U.S. actions there have been substantially advanced. Whatever remains is a hunt for remaining elements of what amounts to an insurgency.
All in all, it remains a factual obligation of those who criticize the military's actions there to show that an alternative approach would have been more effective than what has actually occurred. Nowhere on the left has such a factual argument been advanced.
Some of these critics are the same ones who say that the U.S. has not put enough troops in Iraq.
But the facts reveal that there remain sizable U.S. and Allied troops in Afghanistan. Further, it is not clear that the kind of troops and equipment deployed in Iraq would have been appropriate in Afghanistan.
In this, the experience of the Soviets is instructive. The Soviets spent many years in Afghanistan, only to become bogged down despite a commitment of thousands of soldiers and their equipment. No matter how many troops there are on the ground, mere numbers are not a guarantee of success.
On the other hand, few could dispute that there is a new government in Afghanistan and that the main goals of U.S. actions there have been substantially advanced. Whatever remains is a hunt for remaining elements of what amounts to an insurgency.
All in all, it remains a factual obligation of those who criticize the military's actions there to show that an alternative approach would have been more effective than what has actually occurred. Nowhere on the left has such a factual argument been advanced.
Political Rhetoric
Most of what passes for political discussion is little more than political rhetoric. Each side of a particular issue is careful only to present that side that it desires considered, often failing to address the legitimate concerns of its opponents.
The idea that more light is generated from this kind of opposition of ideas is a welcome one, but is it always justified? I would say not.
No wonder very little seems to get done in politics. People are too busy arguing past each other.
The idea that more light is generated from this kind of opposition of ideas is a welcome one, but is it always justified? I would say not.
No wonder very little seems to get done in politics. People are too busy arguing past each other.
Thursday, August 18, 2005
Pentagon OK's Contract In $100B System
The Pentagon has given the go-ahead to Boeing to advance development of the Future Combat System (FCS), a highly networked solution to 21st Century warfighting.
The FCS contemplates the development of new land, sea, and air vehicles in a coordinated network-centric environment providing maximized synergy in command, control, communications, and intelligence.
Source: The Los Angeles Times
The FCS contemplates the development of new land, sea, and air vehicles in a coordinated network-centric environment providing maximized synergy in command, control, communications, and intelligence.
Source: The Los Angeles Times
"Freedom Isn't Free"
Far be it for me to quote Up With People, the 1970's-era pop hit, for my philosophy, but sometimes one should realize that freedom demands a bit of personal sacrifice.
Freedom is distinguishable from license, according to historic views codified in American political lore, because freedom must be clearly justified as the reification of what is morally and ethically right.
The problem is that society has become so morally ambiguous that freedom sometimes spills over into license. Again and again, society's morality is reduced to the lowest common denominator, and very little seems to restrict the otherwise unrestrained citizen. A free society works best if its citizens are moral and upstanding. Indeed, one might go as far as to say that a free society works only if its best citizens are moral and upstanding, and when the best of its citizens are both respectable and respected. There is a built-in tolerance for amoral or even immoral acts, but above a certain threshold, then there, ahead, lies danger.
Thus it must be remember: Freedom truly isn't free. To quote, as far as I remember, the above-stated play: "We must pay the price; we must sacrifice; to keep our liberty."
Freedom is distinguishable from license, according to historic views codified in American political lore, because freedom must be clearly justified as the reification of what is morally and ethically right.
The problem is that society has become so morally ambiguous that freedom sometimes spills over into license. Again and again, society's morality is reduced to the lowest common denominator, and very little seems to restrict the otherwise unrestrained citizen. A free society works best if its citizens are moral and upstanding. Indeed, one might go as far as to say that a free society works only if its best citizens are moral and upstanding, and when the best of its citizens are both respectable and respected. There is a built-in tolerance for amoral or even immoral acts, but above a certain threshold, then there, ahead, lies danger.
Thus it must be remember: Freedom truly isn't free. To quote, as far as I remember, the above-stated play: "We must pay the price; we must sacrifice; to keep our liberty."
Wednesday, August 17, 2005
Russia To Build New Passenger Aircraft?
The Xinhua news agency says that a consortium of Russian aerospace manufacturers will build a medium-sized, long-range aircraft that will rival Boeing and Airbus competitors.
The proposed aircraft would be less expensive and more fuel-efficient, the report claims.
This information apparently has not been confirmed by other sources reviewed by this writer.
The proposed aircraft would be less expensive and more fuel-efficient, the report claims.
This information apparently has not been confirmed by other sources reviewed by this writer.
Boeing Receives $1.9 Billion Order
The Boeing Company has received an order for eight new 747-400 aircraft from United Parcel Service (UPS), reports say.
Each aircraft is capable of lifting up to 120 tons of payload, which is 25 tons more than existing 747-200's operated by UPS.
Source consulted: Boeing.com.
In other Boeing news, the Delta IV launch of the GOES-N satellite has been delayed until October, reports say.
In connection with the recent 737 crash in Greece, Boeing denies that it certified the particular plane in question, saying that maintenance certifications are done by national authorities.
Source consulted: Yahoo! News.
Each aircraft is capable of lifting up to 120 tons of payload, which is 25 tons more than existing 747-200's operated by UPS.
Source consulted: Boeing.com.
In other Boeing news, the Delta IV launch of the GOES-N satellite has been delayed until October, reports say.
In connection with the recent 737 crash in Greece, Boeing denies that it certified the particular plane in question, saying that maintenance certifications are done by national authorities.
Source consulted: Yahoo! News.
Is Secularism Innately Weak?
The most emotionally intense regions of the world also tend to be the most religious. The Middle East runs hot with strife fueled by religious disagreement.
The least strife-torn also tends toward the least religious. Sweden is rather atheistic; when was the last time you saw civil strife there?
Does this mean that secularism is inherently weak? I would tend not to believe this.
There is a particular kind of secularism which, I think, admits the need to energize its adherents. In one form, it is the aggressive atheism of the ACLU. In another, it is merely a form of secular humanism.
The West should not forget, in the current divided state of nonreligionism, that the intensity of one's belief may be important for its own future. The degree and generation of intensity is a problem which may not be solved until we determine what the West irreducibly believes, not only in the abstract, but also in reality.
The least strife-torn also tends toward the least religious. Sweden is rather atheistic; when was the last time you saw civil strife there?
Does this mean that secularism is inherently weak? I would tend not to believe this.
There is a particular kind of secularism which, I think, admits the need to energize its adherents. In one form, it is the aggressive atheism of the ACLU. In another, it is merely a form of secular humanism.
The West should not forget, in the current divided state of nonreligionism, that the intensity of one's belief may be important for its own future. The degree and generation of intensity is a problem which may not be solved until we determine what the West irreducibly believes, not only in the abstract, but also in reality.
Cindy Sheehan's Personal Struggle
As I review various news reports concerning the circus outside President Bush's ranch, I find the left and the right immensely exploitative of Cindy Sheehan's personal tragedy.
I fail to see why anyone should make this a cause of their own. It is nothing more than political opportunism of the worst possible sort.
Both the left and the right should leave this poor woman alone. Let her grieve in her own way, in peace.
I fail to see why anyone should make this a cause of their own. It is nothing more than political opportunism of the worst possible sort.
Both the left and the right should leave this poor woman alone. Let her grieve in her own way, in peace.
TIME Magazine Covers 25 Influential Hispanics
This week's TIME magazine has a cover story on the nation's 25 most influential Hispanics. The list includes Los Angeles' new mayor, who is the first Latino to hold the office in decades.
The existence of this issue shows that America bears no animus against Hispanics. Statements against illegal immigrants should not be deemed an issue of race, but rather, an issue of legality.
The existence of this issue shows that America bears no animus against Hispanics. Statements against illegal immigrants should not be deemed an issue of race, but rather, an issue of legality.
The Governator Speaks On Illegal Aliens
According to radio news reports, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger said today that he is prepared to close down California's border with Mexico if necessary to prevent the kind of chaos that has afflicted certain counties in two other border States.
Earlier news reports said that New Mexico and Arizona have declared a state of emergency in certain of their respective border counties because of criminality in this areas including drug and human smuggling.
Comment: Do we trust Gov. Schwarzenegger to do what is right? Currently, he strikes one as the punching bag for special interests. I expect him to do what is right, and not merely say it.
Earlier news reports said that New Mexico and Arizona have declared a state of emergency in certain of their respective border counties because of criminality in this areas including drug and human smuggling.
Comment: Do we trust Gov. Schwarzenegger to do what is right? Currently, he strikes one as the punching bag for special interests. I expect him to do what is right, and not merely say it.
NM In State Of Emergency Over Border Issues
The Governor of the New Mexico has declared a state of emergency to exist due to circumstances relating to that State's border with Mexico.
Governor Bill Richardson, himself a Hispanic, has found that authorities cannot otherwise handle the crime and other social issues that have arisen from a flood of criminality, disease, and illegal aliens flowing across New Mexico's borders.
For more information, see this article.
Governor Bill Richardson, himself a Hispanic, has found that authorities cannot otherwise handle the crime and other social issues that have arisen from a flood of criminality, disease, and illegal aliens flowing across New Mexico's borders.
For more information, see this article.
Tuesday, August 16, 2005
Anti-KFC Ad Features Nude Model
An advertisement placed by the animal-rights group PETA features a nude but relatively tasteful picture of a popular female model.
Which goes to show: Even in animal rights ads, sex sells.
See this story for details.
Which goes to show: Even in animal rights ads, sex sells.
See this story for details.
L.A. Increases Ambulance Fee
Heard on KNX-AM: The cost of ambulance service in the County of Los Angeles will rise from around $200.00 to between about $600.00 and $800.00 per use. Patients will be billed at this new, higher rate. The funds will be dedicated to improving the provision of such services to the public, according to a County official.
When I heard this, I asked myself: Why? It seems to me that the County has plenty of money to give away to illegal aliens. Shouldn't there be cutbacks in these services before general increases in the price of services used by actual citizens in this County?
When I heard this, I asked myself: Why? It seems to me that the County has plenty of money to give away to illegal aliens. Shouldn't there be cutbacks in these services before general increases in the price of services used by actual citizens in this County?
Strong Quake Strikes Japan
An earthquake registering 7.2 on the Richter scale knocked down houses and injured dozens in Japan earlier today, according to various news reports.
Perched on the Pacific Rim's "circle of fire", Japan is no stranger to quakes and has a well-developed infrastructure to handle the aftermath of both land-based temblors and tsunamis that periodically strike the island nation.
Here's hoping that rescue efforts go well and that those afflicted recover quickly.
Perched on the Pacific Rim's "circle of fire", Japan is no stranger to quakes and has a well-developed infrastructure to handle the aftermath of both land-based temblors and tsunamis that periodically strike the island nation.
Here's hoping that rescue efforts go well and that those afflicted recover quickly.
Aide To Canadian Tory Leader Quits Post
The departure of Phil Murphy, the chief of staff for Stephen Harper, the leader of Canada's Conservative Party, has left observers speculating whether he was the loser in a power struggle involving other senior staff that may implicate dissatisfaction with Harper's management style.
For more details, see this August 16, 2005 article at the Globe and Mail website.
It's a rare day when stories about Stephen Harper don't involve some degree of negativity about the direction of his party, or at least about him personally, which is almost worse. The article cited above made note of Harper's declining popularity among Canadians and implied that he micromanaged his staff to distraction.
One wonders if this is a self-fulfilling prophecy on the part of the media elites. The Conservatives seem to be the political whipping boy du jour. But the fact is that they are the only viable alternative to the present Liberal establishment and remain the party of choice for many in Western Canada. They are a force to reckon with in spite of themselves.
Taking the long view, one can see this as a time for renewal which could be used to advantage to reinvigorate a remarkably moribund political opposition. Times can change even for a party dedicated to preserving the best of the past. And when the tides of transformation arrive, there are those who should lead, and those who should follow. And then there are those who should get out of the way.
In which group will Stephen Harper choose to be?
For more details, see this August 16, 2005 article at the Globe and Mail website.
It's a rare day when stories about Stephen Harper don't involve some degree of negativity about the direction of his party, or at least about him personally, which is almost worse. The article cited above made note of Harper's declining popularity among Canadians and implied that he micromanaged his staff to distraction.
One wonders if this is a self-fulfilling prophecy on the part of the media elites. The Conservatives seem to be the political whipping boy du jour. But the fact is that they are the only viable alternative to the present Liberal establishment and remain the party of choice for many in Western Canada. They are a force to reckon with in spite of themselves.
Taking the long view, one can see this as a time for renewal which could be used to advantage to reinvigorate a remarkably moribund political opposition. Times can change even for a party dedicated to preserving the best of the past. And when the tides of transformation arrive, there are those who should lead, and those who should follow. And then there are those who should get out of the way.
In which group will Stephen Harper choose to be?
Politics For The Easily Entertained
Should there be a moratorium on cutesy stories about gaffes until we know a little of what a political candidate represents? Not according to a spate of stories about Jean Pirro, a candidate for the Republican nomination to oppose Sen. Hillary Clinton.
Ms. Pirro apparently lost her place at a recent speech, pausing for half a minute as she looked for a missing page. If this article, among others, is to be believed, the event has attained almost epochal importance.
Whether Ms. Pirro has a realistic chance of unseating Sen. Clinton depends on whom you believe. But it seems that regardless of reality, the soap opera-like facets of this race are already beginning to emerge. It's politics as entertainment, and we are all the worse for it.
Ms. Pirro apparently lost her place at a recent speech, pausing for half a minute as she looked for a missing page. If this article, among others, is to be believed, the event has attained almost epochal importance.
Whether Ms. Pirro has a realistic chance of unseating Sen. Clinton depends on whom you believe. But it seems that regardless of reality, the soap opera-like facets of this race are already beginning to emerge. It's politics as entertainment, and we are all the worse for it.
China To Build Lunar Orbiter
According to the BBC, the People's Republic of China has completed plans to build its first lunar orbiter, which it intends to launch by 2007. The vehicle, an unmanned scientific probe, is to commence development next month. For details, see this article, dated August 12, 2005.
Additional source: Reuters article, dated August 16, 2005.
Comment: As has been noted in several sources, the fact that the U.S. faces another competitor in space may be the reason for renewed interest in the final frontier. Many have noted that the Apollo missions arose from competition with the Soviet Union, and now, we see that Project Constellation beckons. Perhaps history is repeating itself as we speak.
Additional source: Reuters article, dated August 16, 2005.
Comment: As has been noted in several sources, the fact that the U.S. faces another competitor in space may be the reason for renewed interest in the final frontier. Many have noted that the Apollo missions arose from competition with the Soviet Union, and now, we see that Project Constellation beckons. Perhaps history is repeating itself as we speak.
Monday, August 15, 2005
New Engine Likened To "Star Trek" Device
A new engine currently under development by a U.S. governmental agency has been compared to fictional methods of propulsion seen in the original Star Trek television series.
(Excerpt)
Source of quoted material:
http://www.thedailytimes.com/sited/story/html/214967
(Excerpt)
While some may say that warp engines are still far beyond our reach, it's nice to know that steady progress is being made by dreamers who strive to make the previously unreachable a reality.The new rocket will be powered by plasma, a state of hydrogen, occurring in nature in bolts of lightening and the sun, that can be achieved in its gaseous state by heating it to extreme temperatures such as tens of thousands to sometimes millions of degrees. Some scientists call this the fourth state of matter.
``This is basically a controlled hydrogen explosion caused by plasma in a chamber,'' said Sparks about VASIMR. ``The plasma and the explosion are contained and directed by magnetic fields which force the blast into a nozzle.''
Source of quoted material:
http://www.thedailytimes.com/sited/story/html/214967
Violence Mars Gaza Withdrawal
Tens of thousands of Israeli and Palestinian soldiers were deployed across the Gaza Strip as the government of Ariel Sharon began to carry out a long-anticipated and controversial plan to evict Jewish citizens who refused to vacate their settlements in that disputed territory.
Despite receiving eviction notices from Israeli troops, many settlers resisted all efforts to enforce the order, and shots rang out near one particular settlement outside a Palestinian city, wounding several soldiers. Their injuries were attributed to "friendly fire".
Settlers in Gaza considered the forced move a sell-out of their rights by Tel Aviv and pledged to remain on land they considered hard-won by the sacrifices of their ancestors.
For more information on this historic withdrawal from the Gaza Strip, read this article from Newsmax.com.
Sources consulted: MSNBC, CNN, Fox News Channel.
Comment: No one has recently explained to the American public why vacating the Gaza Strip is essential to Middle East peace. Without further information, it seems that the Israeli government is acting capriciously and without due consideration for the sentiments of its own Jewish citizens. Where is the thoughtful analysis and justification for such acts that the media, in fulfilling their responsibilities, should present?
Despite receiving eviction notices from Israeli troops, many settlers resisted all efforts to enforce the order, and shots rang out near one particular settlement outside a Palestinian city, wounding several soldiers. Their injuries were attributed to "friendly fire".
Settlers in Gaza considered the forced move a sell-out of their rights by Tel Aviv and pledged to remain on land they considered hard-won by the sacrifices of their ancestors.
For more information on this historic withdrawal from the Gaza Strip, read this article from Newsmax.com.
Sources consulted: MSNBC, CNN, Fox News Channel.
Comment: No one has recently explained to the American public why vacating the Gaza Strip is essential to Middle East peace. Without further information, it seems that the Israeli government is acting capriciously and without due consideration for the sentiments of its own Jewish citizens. Where is the thoughtful analysis and justification for such acts that the media, in fulfilling their responsibilities, should present?
Pope Hopes For Renewal Of Faith
Pope Benedict XVI has expressed his hopes that a visit to Cologne he is about to make will help Europeans renew their faith in the Roman Catholic Church.
The Pope said in advance of his attendance at the the World Youth Day event in his native Germany that many Europeans mistakenly believed that the Church stood for a set of outmoded rules, when in fact membership in the faith was like having a set of wings.
Europe has experienced a long-term trend toward secularization, with many of its citizens leaving Christian churches in particular. By contrast, citizens in other areas of the world, such as the United States, Asia, and the Middle East, remain strongly religious and in some cases have become more fervent in their personal commitment to faith.
For more information, read this source article updated over the weekend at the BBC website.
Comment: The greatest mistake of mankind is to believe that there can be nothing greater than our own species. There is very little that can be said to prove the existence of God, at least that has not been said before. It is my position that God can only be apprehended by faith.
Yet much of what passes for faith today is exactly the preoccupation with rules that Benedict XVI has criticized.
God lives in mankind only if mankind believes in Him. God is not an intruder in our daily lives, and He will not cause miracles to occur to us if we fail to appreciate the sacred in the mundane. Thus, to be faithful must be to be uplifted -- there is no alternative. As Europeans ponder the consequences of pure secularism, it remains to be seen whether they will seek comfort in beliefs about God, or consign God to a place where He is no longer visible.
The jury is still very much out.
The Pope said in advance of his attendance at the the World Youth Day event in his native Germany that many Europeans mistakenly believed that the Church stood for a set of outmoded rules, when in fact membership in the faith was like having a set of wings.
Europe has experienced a long-term trend toward secularization, with many of its citizens leaving Christian churches in particular. By contrast, citizens in other areas of the world, such as the United States, Asia, and the Middle East, remain strongly religious and in some cases have become more fervent in their personal commitment to faith.
For more information, read this source article updated over the weekend at the BBC website.
Comment: The greatest mistake of mankind is to believe that there can be nothing greater than our own species. There is very little that can be said to prove the existence of God, at least that has not been said before. It is my position that God can only be apprehended by faith.
Yet much of what passes for faith today is exactly the preoccupation with rules that Benedict XVI has criticized.
God lives in mankind only if mankind believes in Him. God is not an intruder in our daily lives, and He will not cause miracles to occur to us if we fail to appreciate the sacred in the mundane. Thus, to be faithful must be to be uplifted -- there is no alternative. As Europeans ponder the consequences of pure secularism, it remains to be seen whether they will seek comfort in beliefs about God, or consign God to a place where He is no longer visible.
The jury is still very much out.
Religious Rallies Blast Judicial Power
Rallies in Tennessee led by conservative religious leaders including the Rev. James Dobson expressed criticism of judicial authorities for their perceived "arrogance" and called for a constitutional amendment limiting the ability of the Supreme Court to overturn acts of Congress.
The gatherings in Nashville and Louisville were attended by thousands of like-minded parishioners, many of whom appeared to support the sentiments of speakers who blasted liberal critics of the Bush Administration's judicial nominees and praised the nomination of John Roberts, the candidate President Bush recently proposed to succeed retiring Justice Sandra Day O'Connor. Liberal groups have questioned Judge Robert's commitment to abortion rights, and a controversial television ad was withdrawn by the pro-choice group NARAL after a Senator friendly to its cause wrote it a highly critical letter.
For more information, see this article in the Chicago Tribune, dated August 15, 2005.
The gatherings in Nashville and Louisville were attended by thousands of like-minded parishioners, many of whom appeared to support the sentiments of speakers who blasted liberal critics of the Bush Administration's judicial nominees and praised the nomination of John Roberts, the candidate President Bush recently proposed to succeed retiring Justice Sandra Day O'Connor. Liberal groups have questioned Judge Robert's commitment to abortion rights, and a controversial television ad was withdrawn by the pro-choice group NARAL after a Senator friendly to its cause wrote it a highly critical letter.
For more information, see this article in the Chicago Tribune, dated August 15, 2005.
Conservatives Lose Ground In Germany
Only a few months ago, the leader of Germany's Christian Democratic Union appeared poised to succeed Social Democrat Gerhard Schroeder as Chancellor. However, according to the latest polls, Schroeder has regained and widened his lead over Angela Merkel, thanks to what have been termed "blunders" by Merkel and fellow conservatives.
For more more information, see this August 13, 2005 source article in the Times of London.
Comment: Conservatives in various countries have a habit of pulling defeat from the jaws of victory. I give you the example of the Conservative Party in Canada, whose recent antics have brought some discredit to its leadership.
Citizens desire maturity and commitment in their leadership, not flighty leaps to political advantage over principle. And whether sentiments expressed are strongly held or not, radical statements that depart from mainstream beliefs run the risk of alienating the great mainstream of the voting public.
It seems to me that Conservatives in such countries have been away from power for so long, their hunger for it overwhelms their ability to exercise self-restraint and good judgment. This, as with few other things, cannot be good for the cause of conservatism.
For more more information, see this August 13, 2005 source article in the Times of London.
Comment: Conservatives in various countries have a habit of pulling defeat from the jaws of victory. I give you the example of the Conservative Party in Canada, whose recent antics have brought some discredit to its leadership.
Citizens desire maturity and commitment in their leadership, not flighty leaps to political advantage over principle. And whether sentiments expressed are strongly held or not, radical statements that depart from mainstream beliefs run the risk of alienating the great mainstream of the voting public.
It seems to me that Conservatives in such countries have been away from power for so long, their hunger for it overwhelms their ability to exercise self-restraint and good judgment. This, as with few other things, cannot be good for the cause of conservatism.
Sunday, August 14, 2005
Pentagon, NASA Cement Booster Plans
The Pentagon and NASA have sent a joint letter to the White House outlining their proposal to utilize both existing expendable rockets and two new classes of boosters to be developed under NASA supervision.
As expected, the Pentagon and NASA will continue to use Atlas and Delta variants, and NASA will have the Pentagon's blessing to develop both a Shuttle-based CEV launcher and, following that, a Shuttle-derived heavy-lift vehicle in the 100-ton payload class.
The letter, submitted on August 5, 2005 to White House science advisor John Marburger, confirms reports that NASA will use elements of the Space Shuttle system in its next two major launch systems.
For more information, consult this Space.com source, dated August 10, 2005.
As expected, the Pentagon and NASA will continue to use Atlas and Delta variants, and NASA will have the Pentagon's blessing to develop both a Shuttle-based CEV launcher and, following that, a Shuttle-derived heavy-lift vehicle in the 100-ton payload class.
The letter, submitted on August 5, 2005 to White House science advisor John Marburger, confirms reports that NASA will use elements of the Space Shuttle system in its next two major launch systems.
For more information, consult this Space.com source, dated August 10, 2005.
NASA To Launch GOES-N
NASA plans to launch the GOES-N weather and environmental monitoring satellite no earlier than August 15, 2005. This first in a new generation of satellites offers meteorologists and geophysicists increased capabilities, including a digital weather information service, a dedicated emergency communication channel, high imager resolution, and a more stable observing platform.
"GOES" is an acronym for "Geostationary Operational Environment Satellite". GOES satellites observe the Earth from geostationary orbit, from which they appear to hover over a specific spot on the Earth. Even from this distance about 22,300 statute miles above the Earth, the imager aboard GOES-N will have a resolution as high as 1 kilometer per pixel.
In addition to weather imaging and sounding instruments, the spacecraft will also carry a suite of detectors to study the environment in space around the Earth.
GOES-N, weighing about 7,000 pounds, will be launched by a Delta IV rocket in its Medium-Plus configuration.
Source consulted: NASA.gov.
"GOES" is an acronym for "Geostationary Operational Environment Satellite". GOES satellites observe the Earth from geostationary orbit, from which they appear to hover over a specific spot on the Earth. Even from this distance about 22,300 statute miles above the Earth, the imager aboard GOES-N will have a resolution as high as 1 kilometer per pixel.
In addition to weather imaging and sounding instruments, the spacecraft will also carry a suite of detectors to study the environment in space around the Earth.
GOES-N, weighing about 7,000 pounds, will be launched by a Delta IV rocket in its Medium-Plus configuration.
Source consulted: NASA.gov.
Human Evolution Today
Cultural evolution has greatly outpaced biological evolution in the expression of the human genome, and as human beings, what identifies us as better than other animals, as far as we know, is our ablity to develop and maintain a form of cognitively cumulative abstract cultural evolution.
That is, history teaches that our cultural aspects build upon themselves, to the extent that no other animal species can emulate. While chimps and dolphins have culture and even language, their cultural aspects are neither complex nor abstract nor particularly cumulative. Thus, the central critical feature of humanity is abstract, not biological.
What matters is what has been done through application of human intelligence and effort throughout the ages that matters. In this respect, our moral rectitude is essential. A species that oppresses its own is as low as the lowest animal, and possibly lower. Our humanity necessarily includes our compassion for others of our own kind, and for others in this world. Every major religion has taught this, and I, for one, subscribe to it.
That is, history teaches that our cultural aspects build upon themselves, to the extent that no other animal species can emulate. While chimps and dolphins have culture and even language, their cultural aspects are neither complex nor abstract nor particularly cumulative. Thus, the central critical feature of humanity is abstract, not biological.
What matters is what has been done through application of human intelligence and effort throughout the ages that matters. In this respect, our moral rectitude is essential. A species that oppresses its own is as low as the lowest animal, and possibly lower. Our humanity necessarily includes our compassion for others of our own kind, and for others in this world. Every major religion has taught this, and I, for one, subscribe to it.
Cypriot Airliner Crashes In Greece
A Boeing 737 operated by Helios, an airline based in Cyprus, crashed today near Athens, Greece. There are no reports of survivors. Fighter pilots sent to observe and guide the craft reported that the co-pilot was slumping forward in his seat and the captain was not visible through the cockpit windows. Yellow oxygen masks could be seen hanging down in the passenger cabin.^1.
According to a reporter on a cable news service, the fighter pilots saw the airplane moving in a "triangular" motion, indicating that it had lost the ability to communicate.
Helios operates a fleet of four aircraft consisting of one or two 737-300's and several 737-800's, according to a review of its website.
Early reports say that a text message was sent from a passenger saying that he was freezing. A loss of cabin pressure or oxygen is suspected, reports say. A cable news report presented speculation that the autopilot may have been disengaged when the co-pilot fell forward.
News sources also report that the aircraft's flight recorders have been recovered.
Sources consulted: MSBNC, CNN, Reuters, Helios website.
1. Update: 3:57 p.m. Pacific Time (U.S.) :
"Were there any issues with this particular aircraft?"
"There have been reports today the aircraft... had air-conditioning problems before and in fact was probably grounded round about a month ago for some maintenance to be carried out.
"We have to wait and see for confirmation of that and wait for confirmation to see if the work carried out was up to standard. "
Source of quoted material:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/4151322.stm
According to a reporter on a cable news service, the fighter pilots saw the airplane moving in a "triangular" motion, indicating that it had lost the ability to communicate.
Helios operates a fleet of four aircraft consisting of one or two 737-300's and several 737-800's, according to a review of its website.
Early reports say that a text message was sent from a passenger saying that he was freezing. A loss of cabin pressure or oxygen is suspected, reports say. A cable news report presented speculation that the autopilot may have been disengaged when the co-pilot fell forward.
News sources also report that the aircraft's flight recorders have been recovered.
Sources consulted: MSBNC, CNN, Reuters, Helios website.
1. Update: 3:57 p.m. Pacific Time (U.S.) :
"Were there any issues with this particular aircraft?"
"There have been reports today the aircraft... had air-conditioning problems before and in fact was probably grounded round about a month ago for some maintenance to be carried out.
"We have to wait and see for confirmation of that and wait for confirmation to see if the work carried out was up to standard. "
Source of quoted material:
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/4151322.stm
Saturday, August 13, 2005
Canada's Next Governor General
The candidate who has been proposed for Canada's next Governor General, Michaelle Jean, strikes one as a telegenic and accomplished first-generation Canadian and one who will effectively represent the Queen's role in that country.
There has recently been a tempest in a teapot concerning her appointment, scheduled to take place next month. She is to succeed a fellow journalist, Adrienne Clarkson, in that position. Apparently, a few politicians have questioned whether Ms. Jean's husband is a Quebec separatist.
I have criticized opponents of candidate for the U.S. Supreme Court, Judge John Roberts, for making comments about his wife's dedication to pro-life issues. In order to be consistent, I cannot very well criticize the proposed Governor General of Canada based on her spouse's putative stance.
I welcome any investigation into Ms. Jean's own beliefs, but I do not believe that the beliefs of her husband should be particularly relevant. It is, at best, a sidelight, and an indication that politicians of all stripes will raise any issue regardless of its merit if it is to their advantage.
Source consulted: CTV.ca.
There has recently been a tempest in a teapot concerning her appointment, scheduled to take place next month. She is to succeed a fellow journalist, Adrienne Clarkson, in that position. Apparently, a few politicians have questioned whether Ms. Jean's husband is a Quebec separatist.
I have criticized opponents of candidate for the U.S. Supreme Court, Judge John Roberts, for making comments about his wife's dedication to pro-life issues. In order to be consistent, I cannot very well criticize the proposed Governor General of Canada based on her spouse's putative stance.
I welcome any investigation into Ms. Jean's own beliefs, but I do not believe that the beliefs of her husband should be particularly relevant. It is, at best, a sidelight, and an indication that politicians of all stripes will raise any issue regardless of its merit if it is to their advantage.
Source consulted: CTV.ca.
Friday, August 12, 2005
Atlas, Delta, And Manned Space Flight
The current generation of expendable boosters has not been rated for manned space flight.
There must be enough confidence in the performance of certain flight systems, and there must be redundancy of certain features. The Shuttle is redundant, for example, in that any one of its three main engines can fail without causing an unrecoverable disaster, within limits. The Shuttle can lose any single main engine and still abort and land successfully at various locations, depending on when the main engine fails. The Shuttle can lose even more than one of its main engines without necessarily requiring it to be ditched.
Qualification of a version of the current Atlas or Delta system for use for manned flight is not ruled out, but appears unlikely at the moment.
There must be enough confidence in the performance of certain flight systems, and there must be redundancy of certain features. The Shuttle is redundant, for example, in that any one of its three main engines can fail without causing an unrecoverable disaster, within limits. The Shuttle can lose any single main engine and still abort and land successfully at various locations, depending on when the main engine fails. The Shuttle can lose even more than one of its main engines without necessarily requiring it to be ditched.
Qualification of a version of the current Atlas or Delta system for use for manned flight is not ruled out, but appears unlikely at the moment.
Mars Probe Lifts Off
The Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter successfully lifted off today from its pad at Kennedy Space Center.
All systems are nominal. The first stage has successfully separated and the vehicle's payload shroud has been jettisoned. The vehicle is currently experiencing Centaur upper stage burn which will place it in an appropriate trajectory.
The exact time of lift-off was 7:43:0273 a.m.
More updates as events may warrant.
Source: NASA TV, live and continuous coverage.
Congratulations on a successful start to a promising mission.
All systems are nominal. The first stage has successfully separated and the vehicle's payload shroud has been jettisoned. The vehicle is currently experiencing Centaur upper stage burn which will place it in an appropriate trajectory.
The exact time of lift-off was 7:43:0273 a.m.
More updates as events may warrant.
Source: NASA TV, live and continuous coverage.
Congratulations on a successful start to a promising mission.
Countdown Normal For Mars Probe Launch
Fueling Anomaly Explained
All is proceeding nominally at Kennedy Space Center as the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter counts down toward lift-off.
It is currently about an hour and fifteen minutes before scheduled lift-off, barring any holds.
NASA TV reports through its anchor, George Dillon, that the fueling anomaly experienced yesterday has been investigated and was attributed to a lightning strike 0.6 miles from the launch site that resulted in an automated check of critical launch systems. The result was a reconfiguration of a flight status system that differed from the actual fuel state of the spacecraft, with the readings showing that the Centaur upper stage fuel tank was full when in fact it was only five percent filled. The anomaly is well-understood and the problem is deemed solved.
Fueling has begun and live television coverage reveals normal gaseous venting from beneath the Centaur stage.
All is proceeding nominally at Kennedy Space Center as the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter counts down toward lift-off.
It is currently about an hour and fifteen minutes before scheduled lift-off, barring any holds.
NASA TV reports through its anchor, George Dillon, that the fueling anomaly experienced yesterday has been investigated and was attributed to a lightning strike 0.6 miles from the launch site that resulted in an automated check of critical launch systems. The result was a reconfiguration of a flight status system that differed from the actual fuel state of the spacecraft, with the readings showing that the Centaur upper stage fuel tank was full when in fact it was only five percent filled. The anomaly is well-understood and the problem is deemed solved.
Fueling has begun and live television coverage reveals normal gaseous venting from beneath the Centaur stage.
Despite Efforts, African Challenges Worsen
With the advent of renewed interest in African famine relief, one may be excused for believing that the food crisis that continues to grip that continent is on its way to improvement. But one would nevertheless be wrong.
A new study finds that starvation will continue to plague sub-Sahara Africa, if current trends prevail.
For more information, see this article.
Comment: What the world has done for Africa for the last thirty years clearly hasn't worked. Rather than continuing to maintain the current course, what is needed to alleviate the perpetual food crisis there is innovative and practical thinking at the highest levels of government combined with active, cooperative efforts toward implementation. There has been much talk about reconfiguring trade policies and the like, but so far, the results are few.
In the meantime, what is contributed by the West can only serve as short-term emergency relief. It's relief that is appreciated, to be sure, but that nevertheless will remain useless as a permanent solution to this seemingly intractable issue.
A new study finds that starvation will continue to plague sub-Sahara Africa, if current trends prevail.
For more information, see this article.
Comment: What the world has done for Africa for the last thirty years clearly hasn't worked. Rather than continuing to maintain the current course, what is needed to alleviate the perpetual food crisis there is innovative and practical thinking at the highest levels of government combined with active, cooperative efforts toward implementation. There has been much talk about reconfiguring trade policies and the like, but so far, the results are few.
In the meantime, what is contributed by the West can only serve as short-term emergency relief. It's relief that is appreciated, to be sure, but that nevertheless will remain useless as a permanent solution to this seemingly intractable issue.
Thunder From The Right -- 2005
Has the Grand Old Party lost its way?
According to recent analysis by Diane Alden, a frequent contributor to NewsMax.com, the Republican Party has betrayed those who believe in traditional conservative principles.
According to Alden, Republicans have become enchanted with big government, using it as Democrats have done for decades in pursuit of partisan goals having little to do with traditional goals for which they were elected.
For more information, read this article at NewsMax.com.
According to recent analysis by Diane Alden, a frequent contributor to NewsMax.com, the Republican Party has betrayed those who believe in traditional conservative principles.
According to Alden, Republicans have become enchanted with big government, using it as Democrats have done for decades in pursuit of partisan goals having little to do with traditional goals for which they were elected.
For more information, read this article at NewsMax.com.
NARAL Forced To Pull Anti-Roberts Ad
NARAL, the nation's leading pro-choice lobby, was forced to pull its controversial television advertisement after receiving a highly critical letter written by U.S. Sen. Arlen Specter.
According to CNN.com, Sen. Specter stated, "In our free society, anyone can speak out as they choose on any subject. I am concerned that the Roberts nomination, or others to follow, may provide an occasion for such advertising to get out of hand.
The letter continued, "The NARAL television advertisement is blatantly untrue and unfair. ... May I also suggest that the NARAL advertisement is not helpful to the pro-choice cause which I support. When NARAL puts on such an advertisement, in my opinion it undercuts its credibility and injures the pro-choice cause."
Source: CNN.com.
Comment: NARAL's positions on abortion are offensive to many who believe that human life is precious. I see nothing of value to NARAL's campaign of demonization against Judge Roberts but, given the ethos in which it immerses itself, find little that it does on this account surprising.
According to CNN.com, Sen. Specter stated, "In our free society, anyone can speak out as they choose on any subject. I am concerned that the Roberts nomination, or others to follow, may provide an occasion for such advertising to get out of hand.
The letter continued, "The NARAL television advertisement is blatantly untrue and unfair. ... May I also suggest that the NARAL advertisement is not helpful to the pro-choice cause which I support. When NARAL puts on such an advertisement, in my opinion it undercuts its credibility and injures the pro-choice cause."
Source: CNN.com.
Comment: NARAL's positions on abortion are offensive to many who believe that human life is precious. I see nothing of value to NARAL's campaign of demonization against Judge Roberts but, given the ethos in which it immerses itself, find little that it does on this account surprising.
Thursday, August 11, 2005
Mars Rovers Soldier On
While all eyes are trained on the MRO and the Shuttle, it's easy to forget that the two Mars Exploration Rovers (MER), Spirit and Opportunity, are still operating on the surface of the Red Planet.
I'm currently watching a program on NASA-TV which gives viewers some idea of the fascinating Martian discoveries that the Rovers have made. The program is a taped audience-participation event hosted by Bill Nye the Science Guy and features live presentations and interviews with Matt Golombek of the MER team at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory and a graduate student involved in the Rover program.
It's times like these that I rediscover my love for science over the grungy tawdriness of politics.
I'm currently watching a program on NASA-TV which gives viewers some idea of the fascinating Martian discoveries that the Rovers have made. The program is a taped audience-participation event hosted by Bill Nye the Science Guy and features live presentations and interviews with Matt Golombek of the MER team at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory and a graduate student involved in the Rover program.
It's times like these that I rediscover my love for science over the grungy tawdriness of politics.
Mars Orbiter Launch Scrubbed
Today's attempted launch of the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter (MRO) was scrubbed because of a problem with the fueling of its Centaur upper stage.
Engineers discovered the anomaly in the automatic fueling procedure less than an hour before the extended deadline for launch today and were unable to manually override the computer program controlling it.
The MRO is due to be launched tomorrow at approximately 7:45 a.m.
Engineers discovered the anomaly in the automatic fueling procedure less than an hour before the extended deadline for launch today and were unable to manually override the computer program controlling it.
The MRO is due to be launched tomorrow at approximately 7:45 a.m.
Wednesday, August 10, 2005
Whither Amtrak?
I hope that Congress does not permit Amtrak to go under.
The President has done a radical thing by essentially zeroing out Amtrak's entire budget; although there are funds for certain Northeastern commuter corridors, I gather that this does not fund Amtrak as a whole, but merely local operation of those routes.
It is a bit of a shame that Amtrak may go away. I've always enjoyed train travel. On the other hand, Amtrak has not been profitable. Billions have been used to subsidize it.
It comes down to this: Can a nation afford not to have passenger rail service?
Disclosure: I own shares of Burlington Northern, a multimodal transportation concern that owns and operates a large portion of the nation's rail stock. BN does not operate passenger lines, as far as I know.
The President has done a radical thing by essentially zeroing out Amtrak's entire budget; although there are funds for certain Northeastern commuter corridors, I gather that this does not fund Amtrak as a whole, but merely local operation of those routes.
It is a bit of a shame that Amtrak may go away. I've always enjoyed train travel. On the other hand, Amtrak has not been profitable. Billions have been used to subsidize it.
It comes down to this: Can a nation afford not to have passenger rail service?
Disclosure: I own shares of Burlington Northern, a multimodal transportation concern that owns and operates a large portion of the nation's rail stock. BN does not operate passenger lines, as far as I know.
Houston To Fete Discovery Astronauts
Houston will hold an a public celebration this afternoon for the seven travelers who returned on the Discovery Space Shuttle yesterday, according to a recent report.
I remember the days of ticker tape parades for our astronauts, and I look back wistfully at an era when America could celebrate without reservation those of us who had "the right stuff".
May this be the first of many such celebrations to come.
Source of information: Article.
I remember the days of ticker tape parades for our astronauts, and I look back wistfully at an era when America could celebrate without reservation those of us who had "the right stuff".
May this be the first of many such celebrations to come.
Source of information: Article.
Undersea Station Explores Ocean Life
A U.S. undersea station serves as mankind's permanent presence among densely populated coral reefs and other oceanic life 60 feet below the ocean's surface.
Aquarius is the site of 10-day missions to live and explore among our watery companions, where aquanauts conduct observations designed to help better understand the processes of life and environmental features far removed from shore. The station is operated by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
For more information, please see this site from CNN.com.
A news article from NOAA's official site may be accessed here.
Aquarius is the site of 10-day missions to live and explore among our watery companions, where aquanauts conduct observations designed to help better understand the processes of life and environmental features far removed from shore. The station is operated by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
For more information, please see this site from CNN.com.
A news article from NOAA's official site may be accessed here.
Boeing Delivers C-17 To March ARB
(Press Release - Source: http://www.boeing.com)
Note: Press releases are the sole responsibility of the original source. The information below has not been verified except as follows: Also reported by KCAL-TV (Los Angeles) and various other news sources.
Boeing Delivers "Spirit of California," First C-17 to be Based in California
ST. LOUIS, Aug. 9, 2005 – Officials from March Air Reserve Base took delivery today of the first C-17 Globemaster III airlifter to be based in California and flown by California citizen airmen.
Named "Spirit of California," the aircraft flew to its new home near Riverside, Calif., about 65 miles east of the Boeing [NYSE: BA] Long Beach facility where C-17 aircraft are assembled and where the delivery ceremony was held.
"We're extremely proud and excited to receive the Air Force Reserve Command's first C-17 here at March," said Maj. Gen. Robert E. Duignan, commander, 4th Air Force, Air Force Reserve Command at March ARB. "It's an extraordinary aircraft that increases our ability to accomplish our Total Force, global-reach mission, which is critical to the war on terrorism. March is the first reserve wing with the Globemaster III and it will continue to demonstrate the capacity of our citizen airmen to serve America."
The newly delivered aircraft is the U.S. Air Force's 138 th operational C-17 and the first of eight scheduled for delivery to March ARB between now and January 2006. The new C-17s will be flown and maintained by the Air Force Reserve Command's 452nd Air Mobility Wing at March.
"As the only airlifter that can fly between continents and land on short austere airfields, the C-17 does the work of several planes," said Ron Marcotte, Boeing vice president of Airlift and Tanker Programs. "The C-17 is the most technologically advanced airlift aircraft ever built, and March's C-17s are the most capable in the fleet."
The C-17 fleet has amassed more than 850,000 flying hours – and in the global war on terrorism, has flown combat missions for more than 1,400 consecutive days – with record-setting reliability rates. With a payload of 160,000 pounds, the C-17 can take off from a 7,600-foot airfield, fly 2,400 nautical miles, and land on dirt runways in 3,000 feet or less.
The March C-17s will have upgrades incorporating the latest avionics technologies, a next-generation weather radar system, an enhanced onboard inert gas generating system, and a new stabilizer strut system.
The C-17s will replace the base's aging fleet of C-141 Starlifters, the last of which was ceremonially retired earlier this year. March air mobility assets also include Boeing KC-135 Stratotankers. The base is undergoing a $50 million facilities upgrade and infrastructure improvement to accommodate the new C-17s.
"With its unique capabilities, the C-17 is revitalizing March Air Reserve Base, and ensuring that its mission remains critical and relevant well into the 21st century," said U.S. Rep. Ken Calvert, whose district includes the base. "This aircraft is so important to the nation and to our community that I intend to help March get a second squadron sometime in the next decade."
In addition to March's new aircraft, C-17s are based at Charleston Air Force Base, S.C.; McChord Air Force Base, Wash.; the Air National Guard Base at Jackson, Miss.; McGuire Air Force Base, N.J.; and Altus Air Force Base, Okla. Four C-17s are leased to the United Kingdom 's Royal Air Force.
Boeing currently is on a multi-year production contract to design, build and deliver 180 C-17s to the U.S. Air Force through 2008.
A unit of The Boeing Company, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is one of the world's largest space and defense businesses. Headquartered in St. Louis, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is a $30.5 billion business. It provides network-centric system solutions to its global military, government, and commercial customers. It is a leading provider of intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance systems; the world's largest military aircraft manufacturer; the world's largest satellite manufacturer and a leading provider of space-based communications; the primary systems integrator for U.S. missile defense; NASA's largest contractor; and a global leader in sustainment solutions and launch services.
Note: Press releases are the sole responsibility of the original source. The information below has not been verified except as follows: Also reported by KCAL-TV (Los Angeles) and various other news sources.
Boeing Delivers "Spirit of California," First C-17 to be Based in California
ST. LOUIS, Aug. 9, 2005 – Officials from March Air Reserve Base took delivery today of the first C-17 Globemaster III airlifter to be based in California and flown by California citizen airmen.
Named "Spirit of California," the aircraft flew to its new home near Riverside, Calif., about 65 miles east of the Boeing [NYSE: BA] Long Beach facility where C-17 aircraft are assembled and where the delivery ceremony was held.
"We're extremely proud and excited to receive the Air Force Reserve Command's first C-17 here at March," said Maj. Gen. Robert E. Duignan, commander, 4th Air Force, Air Force Reserve Command at March ARB. "It's an extraordinary aircraft that increases our ability to accomplish our Total Force, global-reach mission, which is critical to the war on terrorism. March is the first reserve wing with the Globemaster III and it will continue to demonstrate the capacity of our citizen airmen to serve America."
The newly delivered aircraft is the U.S. Air Force's 138 th operational C-17 and the first of eight scheduled for delivery to March ARB between now and January 2006. The new C-17s will be flown and maintained by the Air Force Reserve Command's 452nd Air Mobility Wing at March.
"As the only airlifter that can fly between continents and land on short austere airfields, the C-17 does the work of several planes," said Ron Marcotte, Boeing vice president of Airlift and Tanker Programs. "The C-17 is the most technologically advanced airlift aircraft ever built, and March's C-17s are the most capable in the fleet."
The C-17 fleet has amassed more than 850,000 flying hours – and in the global war on terrorism, has flown combat missions for more than 1,400 consecutive days – with record-setting reliability rates. With a payload of 160,000 pounds, the C-17 can take off from a 7,600-foot airfield, fly 2,400 nautical miles, and land on dirt runways in 3,000 feet or less.
The March C-17s will have upgrades incorporating the latest avionics technologies, a next-generation weather radar system, an enhanced onboard inert gas generating system, and a new stabilizer strut system.
The C-17s will replace the base's aging fleet of C-141 Starlifters, the last of which was ceremonially retired earlier this year. March air mobility assets also include Boeing KC-135 Stratotankers. The base is undergoing a $50 million facilities upgrade and infrastructure improvement to accommodate the new C-17s.
"With its unique capabilities, the C-17 is revitalizing March Air Reserve Base, and ensuring that its mission remains critical and relevant well into the 21st century," said U.S. Rep. Ken Calvert, whose district includes the base. "This aircraft is so important to the nation and to our community that I intend to help March get a second squadron sometime in the next decade."
In addition to March's new aircraft, C-17s are based at Charleston Air Force Base, S.C.; McChord Air Force Base, Wash.; the Air National Guard Base at Jackson, Miss.; McGuire Air Force Base, N.J.; and Altus Air Force Base, Okla. Four C-17s are leased to the United Kingdom 's Royal Air Force.
Boeing currently is on a multi-year production contract to design, build and deliver 180 C-17s to the U.S. Air Force through 2008.
A unit of The Boeing Company, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is one of the world's largest space and defense businesses. Headquartered in St. Louis, Boeing Integrated Defense Systems is a $30.5 billion business. It provides network-centric system solutions to its global military, government, and commercial customers. It is a leading provider of intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance systems; the world's largest military aircraft manufacturer; the world's largest satellite manufacturer and a leading provider of space-based communications; the primary systems integrator for U.S. missile defense; NASA's largest contractor; and a global leader in sustainment solutions and launch services.
Tuesday, August 09, 2005
Expendable Vehicles In The U.S. Space Fleet
Some Notes
The Delta IV Heavy
The most powerful expendable U.S. rocket is now the Delta IV Heavy, which lifted off on its maiden flight in December, 2004. The flight was successful but also marked by an anomaly leading to the discovery of a minor design flaw which caused fuel cavitation in a transfer fixture which in turn had resulted in false sensor readings. The flaw has since been repaired and the vehicle is ready for operational use.
The Delta IV Heavy is significantly more powerful than the Atlas V 551, the most advanced and heaviest configuration of the Atlas launchers. The Delta IV Heavy in advanced configurations is estimated to be potentially capable of launching 48,000 pounds into low Earth orbit (LEO), which approximates the capacity of the Shuttle.
With evolution, Boeing^1, the manufacturer, estimates that the Delta IV Heavy could eventually lift a payload of 100,000 pounds into LEO.
The Atlas V
The Atlas V is scheduled to boost the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter (MRO) into space at 7:55 a.m. tomorrow (Wednesday)^2. The Atlas V launching the MRO will use the 401 configuration (one common core booster and one Centaur upper stage, no solids).
The MRO is significantly larger than any other Mars orbiter.
Comparison
Interestingly, Boeing has just dedicated a West Coast launch site for the Delta IV (including the Medium and Heavy configurations). The Delta IV-H first stage consists of three liquid-fueled RS-68 engines, manufactured in the United States, developing a total thrust of around 2 million pounds. (Each R-68 engine develops more than 600,000 pounds of thrust.)
The RS-68 engine, built by Boeing's Rocketdyne^3, is the first large engine developed in the United States since the Space Shuttle main engine (SSME). The SSME develops a thrust of 350,000 pounds.
The advantage that the Delta IV has over the Atlas V (made by Lockheed Martin) is that the Atlas imports its main engine from Russia.
The Shuttle follow-on will be a combination of vehicles, ranging from Delta IV and Atlas V variants to the Magnum Saturn V-class booster (not described here). Congress may decide to eliminate either the Delta IV or the Atlas V to avoid duplication. If this happens, I hope Congress chooses to preserve the Delta IV.
Next Scheduled Flights
The next flight of the Atlas V is as noted above. The next flight of the Delta IV is scheduled for August 30 and it will be in its Medium configuration. The Delta IV-H will lift off for its first paying customer (the Air Force) in October of this year, carrying a classified payload.
Project Constellation's New Ships
The roster of spacecraft and launchers proposed under the President's Project Constellation as contemplated by NASA's new Administrator, Dr. Michael Griffin, does not involve either the Delta IV-H or the Atlas V for the Crew Exploration Vehicle (CEV) or for use as a heavy lift vehicle. Rather, the Magnum booster may be developed instead as a heavy lift launcher and a modified Shuttle solid rocket booster may be used for the CEV.
Footnotes:
1. Boeing has sold its Rocketdyne unit to United Technologies, effective August 2, 2005. Source: Boeing.com. -- Edited August 10, 2005.
2. The launch was delayed for approximately 48 hours. -- Edited August 12, 2005.
3. See Footnote 1. -- Edited August 10, 2005.
Sources consulted: Boeing website for the Delta IV; Space.com; SpaceNews.com; SpaceRef.com; Howstuffworks.com; and others.
Last updated: August 10, 2005.
The Delta IV Heavy
The most powerful expendable U.S. rocket is now the Delta IV Heavy, which lifted off on its maiden flight in December, 2004. The flight was successful but also marked by an anomaly leading to the discovery of a minor design flaw which caused fuel cavitation in a transfer fixture which in turn had resulted in false sensor readings. The flaw has since been repaired and the vehicle is ready for operational use.
The Delta IV Heavy is significantly more powerful than the Atlas V 551, the most advanced and heaviest configuration of the Atlas launchers. The Delta IV Heavy in advanced configurations is estimated to be potentially capable of launching 48,000 pounds into low Earth orbit (LEO), which approximates the capacity of the Shuttle.
With evolution, Boeing^1, the manufacturer, estimates that the Delta IV Heavy could eventually lift a payload of 100,000 pounds into LEO.
The Atlas V
The Atlas V is scheduled to boost the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter (MRO) into space at 7:55 a.m. tomorrow (Wednesday)^2. The Atlas V launching the MRO will use the 401 configuration (one common core booster and one Centaur upper stage, no solids).
The MRO is significantly larger than any other Mars orbiter.
Comparison
Interestingly, Boeing has just dedicated a West Coast launch site for the Delta IV (including the Medium and Heavy configurations). The Delta IV-H first stage consists of three liquid-fueled RS-68 engines, manufactured in the United States, developing a total thrust of around 2 million pounds. (Each R-68 engine develops more than 600,000 pounds of thrust.)
The RS-68 engine, built by Boeing's Rocketdyne^3, is the first large engine developed in the United States since the Space Shuttle main engine (SSME). The SSME develops a thrust of 350,000 pounds.
The advantage that the Delta IV has over the Atlas V (made by Lockheed Martin) is that the Atlas imports its main engine from Russia.
The Shuttle follow-on will be a combination of vehicles, ranging from Delta IV and Atlas V variants to the Magnum Saturn V-class booster (not described here). Congress may decide to eliminate either the Delta IV or the Atlas V to avoid duplication. If this happens, I hope Congress chooses to preserve the Delta IV.
Next Scheduled Flights
The next flight of the Atlas V is as noted above. The next flight of the Delta IV is scheduled for August 30 and it will be in its Medium configuration. The Delta IV-H will lift off for its first paying customer (the Air Force) in October of this year, carrying a classified payload.
Project Constellation's New Ships
The roster of spacecraft and launchers proposed under the President's Project Constellation as contemplated by NASA's new Administrator, Dr. Michael Griffin, does not involve either the Delta IV-H or the Atlas V for the Crew Exploration Vehicle (CEV) or for use as a heavy lift vehicle. Rather, the Magnum booster may be developed instead as a heavy lift launcher and a modified Shuttle solid rocket booster may be used for the CEV.
Footnotes:
1. Boeing has sold its Rocketdyne unit to United Technologies, effective August 2, 2005. Source: Boeing.com. -- Edited August 10, 2005.
2. The launch was delayed for approximately 48 hours. -- Edited August 12, 2005.
3. See Footnote 1. -- Edited August 10, 2005.
Sources consulted: Boeing website for the Delta IV; Space.com; SpaceNews.com; SpaceRef.com; Howstuffworks.com; and others.
Last updated: August 10, 2005.
Shuttle Discovery Lands At Edwards AFB
The Space Shuttle Discovery landed safely at Edwards Air Force Base today, much to the relief of a national television audience who followed it as it glided effortlessly to its California destination.
Congratulations to NASA for a job well done.
Congratulations to NASA for a job well done.
Monday, August 08, 2005
America's Secret Presidents-In-Waiting
During the height of the Cold War, each and every day presented the possibility that a devastating nuclear strike would decapitate the nation by destroying the institutions of governance in Washington, D.C., along with all the occupants thereof.
To preserve continuity of government, the Reagan Administration drafted and put into practice a highly classified procedure under which three separate Executive teams were dispersed far and wide throughout the country in times of utter peril. Each team was to include one person who would be President.
Included in such exercises were none other than Richard Cheney and Donald Rumsfeld.
To preserve continuity of government, the Reagan Administration drafted and put into practice a highly classified procedure under which three separate Executive teams were dispersed far and wide throughout the country in times of utter peril. Each team was to include one person who would be President.
Included in such exercises were none other than Richard Cheney and Donald Rumsfeld.
The outline of the plan was simple. Once the United States was (or believed itself about to be under nuclear attack, three teams would be sent from Washington to three different locations around the United States. Each team would be prepared to assume leadership of the country, and would include a Cabinet member who was prepared to become President. If the Soviet Union were somehow to locate one of the teams and hit it with a nuclear weapon, the second team or, if necessary, the third could take over. This was not some abstract textbook plan; it was practiced in concrete and elaborate detail. Each team was named for a color-"red" or "blue," for example-and each had an experienced executive who could operate as a new White House chief of staff.From: Article.
Military Could Move Against Domestic Terror
The U.S. military has developed detailed plans to preserve order and fulfill other emergency functions in case of terrorist attacks on American soil, according to this article in the Washington Post. The guidelines were written to address terror contingencies including simultaneous attacks at several locations across the country.
The command infrastructure for the implementation of such plans has been in place for years, but the specific force allocations would be determined by the needs of the moment and could include National Guard elements as well as regular troops, according to the story.
The command infrastructure for the implementation of such plans has been in place for years, but the specific force allocations would be determined by the needs of the moment and could include National Guard elements as well as regular troops, according to the story.
Michael Medved Versus Tent City
Or, The Bellevue Blues
I was listening to the Michael Medved program earlier today in which he interviewed a representative of a Jewish charity in Bellevue, Washington that has set up a tent city for the homeless. The city is apparently on private grounds and all individuals are welcome so long as they abide by its guidelines, which include a prohibition of alcohol consumption.
Medved questioned the wisdom of such a settlement, pointing to an instance of drug abuse found in what he said was a prior tent city, presumably at the same location.
I found the entire line of inquiry troubling, because it was difficult to understand where Medved expected the poor -- the truly indigent -- to live. I understand the argument that public funds should not be spent for social welfare if charities can provide similar assistance. But in the absence of an explanation, I don't see how Medved proposes to deal with the issue of homelessness if both public and private means of assistance are deemed unworthy for different reasons.
I may have missed his solution, since I did not tune in for the entire hour of his discussion. However, unless such a solution is given, it seems to me that he is calling for an abandonment of assistance of all kinds to the needy, and I fail to see the compassion in that.
I was listening to the Michael Medved program earlier today in which he interviewed a representative of a Jewish charity in Bellevue, Washington that has set up a tent city for the homeless. The city is apparently on private grounds and all individuals are welcome so long as they abide by its guidelines, which include a prohibition of alcohol consumption.
Medved questioned the wisdom of such a settlement, pointing to an instance of drug abuse found in what he said was a prior tent city, presumably at the same location.
I found the entire line of inquiry troubling, because it was difficult to understand where Medved expected the poor -- the truly indigent -- to live. I understand the argument that public funds should not be spent for social welfare if charities can provide similar assistance. But in the absence of an explanation, I don't see how Medved proposes to deal with the issue of homelessness if both public and private means of assistance are deemed unworthy for different reasons.
I may have missed his solution, since I did not tune in for the entire hour of his discussion. However, unless such a solution is given, it seems to me that he is calling for an abandonment of assistance of all kinds to the needy, and I fail to see the compassion in that.
Retro Rockets
An observer of NASA's new plans for a space capsule might be forgiven for asking the question: Isn't this the way we used to do it? Is the past truly prologue?
And such a critic would be right -- because the way things were done in the past, was indeed the best way. And together with improved technology, the designs of the past are proving to be the wave of the future.
For more information on this subject, see this article for a report on why, for its future, NASA decided to go back in time.
And such a critic would be right -- because the way things were done in the past, was indeed the best way. And together with improved technology, the designs of the past are proving to be the wave of the future.
For more information on this subject, see this article for a report on why, for its future, NASA decided to go back in time.
Has America Become More Virtuous?
David Brooks, writing in an opinion piece in an international newspaper, has expressed his belief that Americans are in the middle of a moral renaissance. According to Brooks, Americans are less likely to cause harm to each other and seem to take more interest in the welfare of their own children.
In a glowing review of recent societal trends, Brooks lavishes praise on America, citing encouraging statistics on domestic violence and teen pregnancy.
For more information, see this article in the International Herald Tribune.
Comment: Have we truly become more virtuous? The constant degradation of our culture in music and other methods of communication suggests otherwise. Nor do I see a public spirit of community that a truly virtuous society would promote. It is all too easy to point to individual statistics and draw conclusions based on one's own predilections. But it is more difficult to devise answers to societal problems that such indicators ignore.
In a glowing review of recent societal trends, Brooks lavishes praise on America, citing encouraging statistics on domestic violence and teen pregnancy.
For more information, see this article in the International Herald Tribune.
Comment: Have we truly become more virtuous? The constant degradation of our culture in music and other methods of communication suggests otherwise. Nor do I see a public spirit of community that a truly virtuous society would promote. It is all too easy to point to individual statistics and draw conclusions based on one's own predilections. But it is more difficult to devise answers to societal problems that such indicators ignore.
China Orders 42 787 Aircraft
In a victory for Boeing over Airbus, news reports confirm that several Chinese airlines have placed orders for a total of 42 787 Dreamliners, with a potential for 18 more.
The aircraft was apparently preferred over Airbus's A350.
The aircraft was apparently preferred over Airbus's A350.
Sunday, August 07, 2005
Peter Jennings Dead At 67
ABC News anchor Peter Jennings passed away at his apartment in New York today at the age of 67. The Canadian-born journalist had been diagnosed with lung cancer earlier this year and had suspended his appearances on ABC's World News Tonight as he underwent treatment to control the disease. Jennings was a naturalized U.S. citizen.
Sources: ABCNews.com story; KABC-AM (Los Angeles); KFI- AM (Los Angeles); CNN; Yahoo! News.
Comment: Can anyone who has followed the news be unaffected by Jennings' passing? Like him or not, he has been a fixture on the network news for a generation. It is appropriate that his death is marked as the end of an era, as well as the final echoes of an age when the three major entertainment networks ruled the world of broadcast news.
Sources: ABCNews.com story; KABC-AM (Los Angeles); KFI- AM (Los Angeles); CNN; Yahoo! News.
Comment: Can anyone who has followed the news be unaffected by Jennings' passing? Like him or not, he has been a fixture on the network news for a generation. It is appropriate that his death is marked as the end of an era, as well as the final echoes of an age when the three major entertainment networks ruled the world of broadcast news.
Saturday, August 06, 2005
Thousands March To Support Civil Rights
Marchers from all over the country gathered today in Atlanta in support of civil rights and to protest a new law they say would place new restrictions on voting.
The Voting Rights Act of 1965 guarantees that minorities will not be discriminated against in local, state, and federal elections. However, the Act is set to expire in 2007. Protestors pressed for the extension of provisions of the bill, and claimed that a new bill passed in Georgia that requires voter identification invites the violation of civil rights.
This article describes today's march.
The Voting Rights Act of 1965 guarantees that minorities will not be discriminated against in local, state, and federal elections. However, the Act is set to expire in 2007. Protestors pressed for the extension of provisions of the bill, and claimed that a new bill passed in Georgia that requires voter identification invites the violation of civil rights.
This article describes today's march.
Iran Rejects Latest EU Proposal
The EU's latest proposal designed to incentivize Iran's abandonment of its nuclear program has been rejected by Tehran.
The proposal was believed to have been a last recourse for the EU before referring this matter to the UN Security Council. However, in the wake of this latest rejection, the EU is sending a negotiating team to Iran and intends to call for a special session of the International Atomic Energy Agency to highlight the importance of the issue.
For more information, see this article from the Voice of America.
The proposal was believed to have been a last recourse for the EU before referring this matter to the UN Security Council. However, in the wake of this latest rejection, the EU is sending a negotiating team to Iran and intends to call for a special session of the International Atomic Energy Agency to highlight the importance of the issue.
For more information, see this article from the Voice of America.
Chilean Airline Buys 767's
LAN Airlines of Chile has agreed to purchase 12 767's from Boeing in a deal worth more than a billion dollars, according to this article.
The order comes as part of a spate of good news for Boeing. Earlier, it was reported that Kingfisher Airlines of India was leaning toward purchasing new Boeing aircraft after years of buying Airbus products. Ironically, Kingfisher's new CEO, who is spearheading the effort, is a former top-selling agent for Airbus.
The 777-200 Worldliner is also making news in India as part of its worldwide promotional tour.
The order comes as part of a spate of good news for Boeing. Earlier, it was reported that Kingfisher Airlines of India was leaning toward purchasing new Boeing aircraft after years of buying Airbus products. Ironically, Kingfisher's new CEO, who is spearheading the effort, is a former top-selling agent for Airbus.
The 777-200 Worldliner is also making news in India as part of its worldwide promotional tour.
Japan Marks 60th Year Since Hiroshima
Japan remembered its dead and injured with ceremonies both public and private on the 60th anniversary of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima.
TIME magazine devoted a cover story to the event in its August 1, 2005 edition, but by and large, the story has not been a major one in the United States. Some now say that the bombing was unnecessary and that Japan surrendered only because of the entry of the Soviet Union into war efforts against it. This conclusion flies in the face of conventional wisdom, which has taught the opposite for decades.
One thing is clear: If Japan had not attacked the United States, history would have not unfolded as it did.
For how one major U.S. newspaper has chosen to remember the event, please see this article.
TIME magazine devoted a cover story to the event in its August 1, 2005 edition, but by and large, the story has not been a major one in the United States. Some now say that the bombing was unnecessary and that Japan surrendered only because of the entry of the Soviet Union into war efforts against it. This conclusion flies in the face of conventional wisdom, which has taught the opposite for decades.
One thing is clear: If Japan had not attacked the United States, history would have not unfolded as it did.
For how one major U.S. newspaper has chosen to remember the event, please see this article.
Friday, August 05, 2005
NASA Plans Lunar Colony, Manned Mars Trips
NASA intends to land four astronauts on the Moon by 2018 and six astronauts on Mars thereafter, and in between, to establish a lunar colony complete with its own power plants, reports say. Lunar expeditions on motorized vehicles would conduct field studies of importance to our understanding of intractable scientific enigmas.
The plan is detailed in internal memoranda obtained by the Orlando Sentinel.
For a view of NASA's comprehensive outlook for Project Constellation, read this article.
The plan is detailed in internal memoranda obtained by the Orlando Sentinel.
For a view of NASA's comprehensive outlook for Project Constellation, read this article.
The Incomplete Conservative
Scan the headlines, and who can fail to be struck by our failure to address one of the fundamental issues of society that have plagued us since time immemorial. That question is, what is to be done about social inequality?
Social inequality, it is plain to see, is virtually absent as political controversy. It is gone from the highest realms of politics. In its place, we have issues of tangential significance to that subject: Middle class economic pressures; health woes of obese children; a culture out of control. But few commentators seem to publicly grapple with the question of why society is unequal, and how, or whether, anything should be done about it.
It is something of a travesty that in a country as rich as the United States, we still have pockets of deep poverty and hopelessness. Impoverished hamlets in the Appalachian mountains, the inner cities, and border towns all share a shameful past of neglect which seem to be no one's concern today.
Why is this?
Traditionally, it was the left that championed the causes of the poor. The left stood for the underdog, the working man, or the black man or other oppressed minority. But today, the left hates the right more than it loves these traditional causes. And so blogs on the left castigate the President and deem him unworthy of the post. Trendsetters consider themselves praiseworthy if they find a way to condemn their opponent, rather than contribute answers to the questions that we face.
In other words, the left has abandoned its traditional role of leadership in favor of a position of defense, attacking others because it feels it must, and not because it feels it is right.
This is easy to see, on the left. But what of the right?
Are there any deep thinkers of the right who have solutions to permanent problems of poverty and injustice in society?
I think it is easy to say that we should leave everyone to exercise their freedom to do what they can within the law. It is easy to say that free enterprise solves all, or that everything will unfold under the will of God. But it is, at the same time, an abdication of the laws of humanity and compassion to pretend that the economy cannot fail, or that the social safety net is sufficient for the least of us. Quite obvious, none of these latter are necessarily true.
So where is the conservative to draw from in his desire to be compassionate? Wasn't the President the one who advocated a compassionate form of conservatism?
Aside from economic principles, on one hand, and religious principles, on the other, what are the sources of conservative compassion?
Social inequality, it is plain to see, is virtually absent as political controversy. It is gone from the highest realms of politics. In its place, we have issues of tangential significance to that subject: Middle class economic pressures; health woes of obese children; a culture out of control. But few commentators seem to publicly grapple with the question of why society is unequal, and how, or whether, anything should be done about it.
It is something of a travesty that in a country as rich as the United States, we still have pockets of deep poverty and hopelessness. Impoverished hamlets in the Appalachian mountains, the inner cities, and border towns all share a shameful past of neglect which seem to be no one's concern today.
Why is this?
Traditionally, it was the left that championed the causes of the poor. The left stood for the underdog, the working man, or the black man or other oppressed minority. But today, the left hates the right more than it loves these traditional causes. And so blogs on the left castigate the President and deem him unworthy of the post. Trendsetters consider themselves praiseworthy if they find a way to condemn their opponent, rather than contribute answers to the questions that we face.
In other words, the left has abandoned its traditional role of leadership in favor of a position of defense, attacking others because it feels it must, and not because it feels it is right.
This is easy to see, on the left. But what of the right?
Are there any deep thinkers of the right who have solutions to permanent problems of poverty and injustice in society?
I think it is easy to say that we should leave everyone to exercise their freedom to do what they can within the law. It is easy to say that free enterprise solves all, or that everything will unfold under the will of God. But it is, at the same time, an abdication of the laws of humanity and compassion to pretend that the economy cannot fail, or that the social safety net is sufficient for the least of us. Quite obvious, none of these latter are necessarily true.
So where is the conservative to draw from in his desire to be compassionate? Wasn't the President the one who advocated a compassionate form of conservatism?
Aside from economic principles, on one hand, and religious principles, on the other, what are the sources of conservative compassion?
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