I will be out of town on Monday, Feb. 28.
So, there will br no Morning Briefing or Updates.
Reports will resume Tuesday, March 1, 2005.
Sunday, February 27, 2005
Friday, February 25, 2005
Morning Briefing - Pope feeling better - 2.25.05
Good morning . .
Medical updates from a Rome hospital say that Pope John Paul II rested comfortably last nigh and is breathing unassisted. The 84 year-old pontiff was given a tracheotomy to ease his briefing after another bout with the flu.
A Vatican spokesman said the Pope's heart and blood circulation were good and there was no sign of bronchial pneumonia infection - a complication of the operation.
Yahoo! News - Pope Breathing Unassisted, Advised Not to Speak
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Micheal Jackson's leagal troubles may not end with his trial for child molestation.
The family of a heart attack vicitim at the same hospital that treated Jackson for the flu say their mother was moved from a trauma room in order to treat the aging pop singer.
According to family members Manuela Gomez Ruiz, 74, was moved from the primary trauma room and removed from a machine ventilator, with her breathing instead assisted by a hand pump, until she was moved to a smaller room.
Hospital reports say that Jackson arrived complaining of abdominal pain with a temperature of 96.9 degrees which is lower than normal. The initial report says that Jackson could have left the hospital at anyqime and did not require hospitalization.
Doctors at the Marian Medical Center in Santa Maria assured Judge Rodney Melville that Jackson was indeed sick. The question remains how sick and did he need a trauma room for the flu.
Ruiz later died of complicationd from her heart attack. Family membes say that Jackson's arrival at the hospital distracted the doctors and other emergency room personnel from treating Ruiz. Daughter-in-law Anna Ruiz said, "He walked in. When I saw him he was walking unassisted."
The Ruiz family is considering suing Jackson, the hospital, and hospital personnel.
ABC News: Family: Heart Attack Victim Moved for Michael Jackson
--
More in the AFternoon Update.
Medical updates from a Rome hospital say that Pope John Paul II rested comfortably last nigh and is breathing unassisted. The 84 year-old pontiff was given a tracheotomy to ease his briefing after another bout with the flu.
A Vatican spokesman said the Pope's heart and blood circulation were good and there was no sign of bronchial pneumonia infection - a complication of the operation.
Yahoo! News - Pope Breathing Unassisted, Advised Not to Speak
--
Micheal Jackson's leagal troubles may not end with his trial for child molestation.
The family of a heart attack vicitim at the same hospital that treated Jackson for the flu say their mother was moved from a trauma room in order to treat the aging pop singer.
According to family members Manuela Gomez Ruiz, 74, was moved from the primary trauma room and removed from a machine ventilator, with her breathing instead assisted by a hand pump, until she was moved to a smaller room.
Hospital reports say that Jackson arrived complaining of abdominal pain with a temperature of 96.9 degrees which is lower than normal. The initial report says that Jackson could have left the hospital at anyqime and did not require hospitalization.
Doctors at the Marian Medical Center in Santa Maria assured Judge Rodney Melville that Jackson was indeed sick. The question remains how sick and did he need a trauma room for the flu.
Ruiz later died of complicationd from her heart attack. Family membes say that Jackson's arrival at the hospital distracted the doctors and other emergency room personnel from treating Ruiz. Daughter-in-law Anna Ruiz said, "He walked in. When I saw him he was walking unassisted."
The Ruiz family is considering suing Jackson, the hospital, and hospital personnel.
ABC News: Family: Heart Attack Victim Moved for Michael Jackson
--
More in the AFternoon Update.
Thursday, February 24, 2005
AFternoon Update - Update on the Pope and Other News - 2.24.05
Good Afternoon . .
According to Italian news agencies Pope John Paul II has undergone surgery to help him breathe easier.
Surgeons at a Rome hospital performed a tracheotomy on the Pope. A tracheotomy is a procedure that cuts a small hole in the windpipe to allow air to flow directly to the lungs.
Medical experts are speculating that the Pope has contracted pnuemonia. They say that the high fever, difficulty breathing and other symptons indicate pnuemonia. Pnuemonia could be expected as a condition exacerbated by his Parkinson's disease.
The Vatican has no offical comment or report on the condition of the Pope.
This latest hospitalization is again fueling rumors of the possibility of the Pope retiring.
Top News Article | Reuters.com
--
Both politival parties are to blame for the impasse on judicial nomination says Sen. Arlen Spector (R-PA) chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee.
Spector made these remarks as he announced hearings to begin next week on the nomination of two judges who were blocked by Domocrats.
Obstructionist Charles Schumer (R-NY) blames the President for "zero consultation" on judicial nominees. Sen. Schumer is out of touch with the nomination process.
Yahoo! News - Specter Blames Both Parties for Impasse
--
New York City has ended efforts to identify the remains of victims of the 9/11 attacks on the World Trade Center.
1100 victims have not be identified using the most sophisticated scientific methods. Robert Shaler od the city's medical examiner's office says that until new methods are found to identify remains, "in real terms, we're finsihed now."
Yahoo! News - NYC's work to ID 9/11 victims ends - for now
--
Moer tomorrow in the Morning Briefing.
According to Italian news agencies Pope John Paul II has undergone surgery to help him breathe easier.
Surgeons at a Rome hospital performed a tracheotomy on the Pope. A tracheotomy is a procedure that cuts a small hole in the windpipe to allow air to flow directly to the lungs.
Medical experts are speculating that the Pope has contracted pnuemonia. They say that the high fever, difficulty breathing and other symptons indicate pnuemonia. Pnuemonia could be expected as a condition exacerbated by his Parkinson's disease.
The Vatican has no offical comment or report on the condition of the Pope.
This latest hospitalization is again fueling rumors of the possibility of the Pope retiring.
Top News Article | Reuters.com
--
Both politival parties are to blame for the impasse on judicial nomination says Sen. Arlen Spector (R-PA) chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee.
Spector made these remarks as he announced hearings to begin next week on the nomination of two judges who were blocked by Domocrats.
Obstructionist Charles Schumer (R-NY) blames the President for "zero consultation" on judicial nominees. Sen. Schumer is out of touch with the nomination process.
Yahoo! News - Specter Blames Both Parties for Impasse
--
New York City has ended efforts to identify the remains of victims of the 9/11 attacks on the World Trade Center.
1100 victims have not be identified using the most sophisticated scientific methods. Robert Shaler od the city's medical examiner's office says that until new methods are found to identify remains, "in real terms, we're finsihed now."
Yahoo! News - NYC's work to ID 9/11 victims ends - for now
--
Moer tomorrow in the Morning Briefing.
Morning Briefing - Pope Returns to Hospital - 2.24.05
Good morning . .
Pope John Paul II returned to a Rome hospital today after a relapse of his flu-like symptons and difficulty breathing.
The 84 year-old Pontiff suffers from Parkinson's disease and other ailments which exacerbate his condition. A brief statement from the Vatican says the Pope was taken to the hospital for "specialist treatment and further checkups."
The Pope spent 9 days in he hosiptal earlier this month.
Health News - Pope Taken Back to Hospital
--
Although they cannot offer an alternative soultion to the pending crisis with Social Security, a liberal advocacy group is turning to personal attack to undermine any suggestion of changing the Social Security System.
The Campaign for America's Future, a George Soros funded group, is attacking the integrity of Rep. Jim McCreery (R-LA) chairman of the House sucommitee on Social Security for accepting campaign contributions from the banking and securities industry. Calling these contributions "corrupting ties to Wall Street."
McCreery supports the idea of personal accounts.
I wonder how many Democrats received contributions and more from the same industry.
Liberal Advocacy Group Getting Personal in Fight Over Social Security -- 02/24/2005
--
Three Californoia television will be fined by the Federal COmmunications Commission (FCC)for failing to provide timely graphics and captions to deaf and partially deaf viewers.
The stations are being fined for their coverage of wildfires in October 2003.
The FCC says emergency information presented to hearing vieweers must be given to deaf viewers "simultaneously or nearly simultaneously." If a broadvaster does not provide closed-captions it must present the informatiuon in a "crawl" at the bottom of the screen, maps, or graphics.
"People with hearing disabilities have a right to the same timely emergency information as stations provide to their hearing audiences," FCC CHairman Michael Powell said in a statement.
Only one station KUSI is planning to appeal the fine. Under FCC rules stations have 30 days to appeal any fine.
This is the first time the FCC has proposed fines in this situation. Yahoo! News - FCC Proposes Fines Over Emergency Info
--
Here is this week's column from Ann Coulter. HUMAN EVENTS ONLINE :: Republicans, Bloggers and Gays, Oh My! by Ann Coulter
--
More in the AFternoon Update.
Pope John Paul II returned to a Rome hospital today after a relapse of his flu-like symptons and difficulty breathing.
The 84 year-old Pontiff suffers from Parkinson's disease and other ailments which exacerbate his condition. A brief statement from the Vatican says the Pope was taken to the hospital for "specialist treatment and further checkups."
The Pope spent 9 days in he hosiptal earlier this month.
Health News - Pope Taken Back to Hospital
--
Although they cannot offer an alternative soultion to the pending crisis with Social Security, a liberal advocacy group is turning to personal attack to undermine any suggestion of changing the Social Security System.
The Campaign for America's Future, a George Soros funded group, is attacking the integrity of Rep. Jim McCreery (R-LA) chairman of the House sucommitee on Social Security for accepting campaign contributions from the banking and securities industry. Calling these contributions "corrupting ties to Wall Street."
McCreery supports the idea of personal accounts.
I wonder how many Democrats received contributions and more from the same industry.
Liberal Advocacy Group Getting Personal in Fight Over Social Security -- 02/24/2005
--
Three Californoia television will be fined by the Federal COmmunications Commission (FCC)for failing to provide timely graphics and captions to deaf and partially deaf viewers.
The stations are being fined for their coverage of wildfires in October 2003.
The FCC says emergency information presented to hearing vieweers must be given to deaf viewers "simultaneously or nearly simultaneously." If a broadvaster does not provide closed-captions it must present the informatiuon in a "crawl" at the bottom of the screen, maps, or graphics.
"People with hearing disabilities have a right to the same timely emergency information as stations provide to their hearing audiences," FCC CHairman Michael Powell said in a statement.
Only one station KUSI is planning to appeal the fine. Under FCC rules stations have 30 days to appeal any fine.
This is the first time the FCC has proposed fines in this situation. Yahoo! News - FCC Proposes Fines Over Emergency Info
--
Here is this week's column from Ann Coulter. HUMAN EVENTS ONLINE :: Republicans, Bloggers and Gays, Oh My! by Ann Coulter
--
More in the AFternoon Update.
Wednesday, February 23, 2005
Morning Briefing - 2.23.05 - Still More Court News
Good day . .
I had a little problem with Firefox this morning. So, the Morning Briefing did not post. Here it is again with some updates.
The Supreme Court ruled Wednesday that a policy of segreating prisoners according to race was unconstitutional.
The 5-3 opinion wirtten by Justice Sandra Day O'Conner overturned the decision by the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals. The policy that was struck down was used to limit gang-related volence in California prisons.
The Court ruled that segregation cannot be used except in the most extraordinary circumstances.
As a result, the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals must now scrutinize the 25-year-old policy for hard evidence that it is necessary and works — a burden that will be hard to meet. The 9th Circuit is the most overturned federal court in the country.
Chief Justice William H. Rehnquist did not participate in the decision.
The case is Johnson v. California, 03-636. Yahoo! News - High Court Curbs State Prison Segregation
--
The National Taxpayers Union has written a letter to the chairmen of Congressional Budget committees urging them to use President Bush's Budget as a "celing" not a "floor."
Recent sessions of Congress have used presidential budgets as a "minimum" for federal spending. Text of letter.
--
Even after the investgative report was issued CBS is still not telling the whole story about Rathergate. The New York Observer reports that shortly after the airing of the "sgement" on '60 Minutes - Wednesday' the network hired a private investigator to look into the authenticity and source of the documents.
Erik Rigler, a former FBI agent, looked into the source of the documents, but his report stops at Bill Burkett who gave the documents to Mary Mapes the fired producer of the "segment."
According to insiders, Mapes provided Rigler with all of her memos and information on the documents. While not finding the source of the documnets, Rigler's report did concentrate on Mapes. Rigler provided the investigative panel with his report, but did not report on the unsuccessful search for the source of the documents.
A CBS spokesperson commenting on the newest wrinkle in Rathergate said, "To this day, the basic questions about the documents have not been answered, but we remain hopeful that, one day, they will be."
That day will come only when Dan Rather and Andrew Heyward come clean with what they knew and when they knew it. CBS News’ Boss Hired Private Eye To Source Memos
--
More later in the Afternoon Update
I had a little problem with Firefox this morning. So, the Morning Briefing did not post. Here it is again with some updates.
The Supreme Court ruled Wednesday that a policy of segreating prisoners according to race was unconstitutional.
The 5-3 opinion wirtten by Justice Sandra Day O'Conner overturned the decision by the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals. The policy that was struck down was used to limit gang-related volence in California prisons.
The Court ruled that segregation cannot be used except in the most extraordinary circumstances.
As a result, the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals must now scrutinize the 25-year-old policy for hard evidence that it is necessary and works — a burden that will be hard to meet. The 9th Circuit is the most overturned federal court in the country.
Chief Justice William H. Rehnquist did not participate in the decision.
The case is Johnson v. California, 03-636. Yahoo! News - High Court Curbs State Prison Segregation
--
The National Taxpayers Union has written a letter to the chairmen of Congressional Budget committees urging them to use President Bush's Budget as a "celing" not a "floor."
Recent sessions of Congress have used presidential budgets as a "minimum" for federal spending. Text of letter.
--
Even after the investgative report was issued CBS is still not telling the whole story about Rathergate. The New York Observer reports that shortly after the airing of the "sgement" on '60 Minutes - Wednesday' the network hired a private investigator to look into the authenticity and source of the documents.
Erik Rigler, a former FBI agent, looked into the source of the documents, but his report stops at Bill Burkett who gave the documents to Mary Mapes the fired producer of the "segment."
According to insiders, Mapes provided Rigler with all of her memos and information on the documents. While not finding the source of the documnets, Rigler's report did concentrate on Mapes. Rigler provided the investigative panel with his report, but did not report on the unsuccessful search for the source of the documents.
A CBS spokesperson commenting on the newest wrinkle in Rathergate said, "To this day, the basic questions about the documents have not been answered, but we remain hopeful that, one day, they will be."
That day will come only when Dan Rather and Andrew Heyward come clean with what they knew and when they knew it. CBS News’ Boss Hired Private Eye To Source Memos
--
More later in the Afternoon Update
Tuesday, February 22, 2005
Afternoon Update - Today's Other News - 2.22.05
Good Afternoon . .
There was so much news from the Supreme Court this morning that the Morning Update was dedicated to the Court's activites.
This afternoon we will concentrate on other news.
--
A US citizen has been charged with plotting to kill President Bush and supporting Al-Qaida.
Abu Ali was arrested in Saudi Arabia as a suspected terrorist. Ali is a native of Virginia and was charged formally at the US District Courthouse in Alexandria.
Yahoo! News Photos - Man Charged in Plot to Kill Bush
--
A Florida circuit court has issued an emergency stay that will prevent Michael Schiavo from removing a feeding tube from his brain dead wife, Terry Schindler Schiavo. The same court had given Schiavo permission on two other occasions.
The Schindler family continues to press any court that will listen to deny Schiavo rights granted him by virtually every court. The court has scheduled a gearing for Wednesday to hear further argumewnt.
The Schindler family says that advances in neurological practice can be used to discover the true state of Terry's mental and cognitive state. No doctor has sided with the Schilndler family.
Last month the US Supreme Court declined to hear arguments in the case.
Florida Court Issues Emergency Stay in Schiavo Case -- 02/22/2005
--
Although he says he is not considering a run for the presidency in 2008, Gov. Mitt Romney (R-MA) spoke to Republicans in South Carolina Monday. During the 25 minute address, Romney blasted the MA Judicial Court and its stand on gay marriage and praised Presidents Reagan and Bush for their struggles against worldwide tyrrany and higher taxes.
Sounds like the beginning of a stump speech to me. Romney would be a very viable candidate for President. He has the charisma, the record, and the conservative credentials needed.
South Carolina is a key state for Republicans with presidential aspirations.
Boston.com / News / Local / Romney talks 'right' on social issues in S.C.
--
Emminent domain is the power of a government, primarily local, to condem property for redevelopment. Generally it is used by cities to make improvements to property or for a governmental use. In the Chicago area, Mayor Richard Daley has been trying for years to use it to expand O'Hare International Airport to the detremnent of local businesses and villages.
While governemnts compensate property owners, New London CT home owners say that eminent domain should not be used to condemn peroperty for use by land developers to build upscale property that will enhance the local government coffes with additional tax revenue.
The US Supreme Court heard arguments today in the New Lonmdon case.
Justices questioned the lawyer reperesenting the residents on why the Court should be involved in this case and how to distinguish between proper and improper property seizure.
Justices also questioned the right of the city to condemn property for the sole purpose of upgrading it to enhance tax revenues.
If the Court eventually sides with the CT residents, it could cast doubt on many projects across the country from shopping malls to baseball parks and, yes, Mayor Daley, to O'Hare International Airport.
Yahoo! News - Supreme Court hears case on government's power to seize property
--
More tomorrow in the Morning Briefing.
There was so much news from the Supreme Court this morning that the Morning Update was dedicated to the Court's activites.
This afternoon we will concentrate on other news.
--
A US citizen has been charged with plotting to kill President Bush and supporting Al-Qaida.
Abu Ali was arrested in Saudi Arabia as a suspected terrorist. Ali is a native of Virginia and was charged formally at the US District Courthouse in Alexandria.
Yahoo! News Photos - Man Charged in Plot to Kill Bush
--
A Florida circuit court has issued an emergency stay that will prevent Michael Schiavo from removing a feeding tube from his brain dead wife, Terry Schindler Schiavo. The same court had given Schiavo permission on two other occasions.
The Schindler family continues to press any court that will listen to deny Schiavo rights granted him by virtually every court. The court has scheduled a gearing for Wednesday to hear further argumewnt.
The Schindler family says that advances in neurological practice can be used to discover the true state of Terry's mental and cognitive state. No doctor has sided with the Schilndler family.
Last month the US Supreme Court declined to hear arguments in the case.
Florida Court Issues Emergency Stay in Schiavo Case -- 02/22/2005
--
Although he says he is not considering a run for the presidency in 2008, Gov. Mitt Romney (R-MA) spoke to Republicans in South Carolina Monday. During the 25 minute address, Romney blasted the MA Judicial Court and its stand on gay marriage and praised Presidents Reagan and Bush for their struggles against worldwide tyrrany and higher taxes.
Sounds like the beginning of a stump speech to me. Romney would be a very viable candidate for President. He has the charisma, the record, and the conservative credentials needed.
South Carolina is a key state for Republicans with presidential aspirations.
Boston.com / News / Local / Romney talks 'right' on social issues in S.C.
--
Emminent domain is the power of a government, primarily local, to condem property for redevelopment. Generally it is used by cities to make improvements to property or for a governmental use. In the Chicago area, Mayor Richard Daley has been trying for years to use it to expand O'Hare International Airport to the detremnent of local businesses and villages.
While governemnts compensate property owners, New London CT home owners say that eminent domain should not be used to condemn peroperty for use by land developers to build upscale property that will enhance the local government coffes with additional tax revenue.
The US Supreme Court heard arguments today in the New Lonmdon case.
Justices questioned the lawyer reperesenting the residents on why the Court should be involved in this case and how to distinguish between proper and improper property seizure.
Justices also questioned the right of the city to condemn property for the sole purpose of upgrading it to enhance tax revenues.
If the Court eventually sides with the CT residents, it could cast doubt on many projects across the country from shopping malls to baseball parks and, yes, Mayor Daley, to O'Hare International Airport.
Yahoo! News - Supreme Court hears case on government's power to seize property
--
More tomorrow in the Morning Briefing.
Supreme Court Begins Second Half of Term - Morning Briefing - 2.22.05
Good morning . . .
The Supreme Court begins the second half of its term with a laundry list of issues and without Chief Justice William H. Rehnquist. The ailing jurist will miss the first two weeks of the session, buit will continue to work from his Virginia home.
--
The Supreme Court has rejected a challenge to its 1973 landmark ruling in Roe v. Wade.
The Court declined without comment to hear the appeal from Norma McCorvey the woman once known as 'Jane Roe.' It was McCorvey complaint against the Texas abortion law that brought the original case to the Court.
For now, the Court has dodged a highly politically charged debate.
Yahoo! News - Court Rejects Challenge to Abortion Ruling
--
The Supreme Court today declined to hear an appeal of a National Park Service policy. The policy asks visitors to avoid walking near Utah's Rainbow Bridge out of respect for native American religion.
The policy was challeneged on the grounds that it unconstitutionally endorsed religion.
The Court let stand a lower court dismissal of the suit.
Yahoo! News - Court Won't Review Utah Park Policy Case
--
The Supreme Court also declined to review whether the poarents of a student killed at Columbine High Schoiol can back out of a settlement with the parents of the gunmen.
Without comment, the justice let stand a lower court ruling that rejected Michael and Vonda Shoels' claim that they accepted the settlement because of a mistake by their attorney.
Yahoo! News - High Court Won't Hear Columbine Dispute
--
The Supreme Court said today that it will hear a Bush admimnistration appeal on the nation's only assisted suicide law.
Justices will review a lower court ruling that says the US government cannot snaction or hold doctors criminally liable for prescribing overdoses under Oregon's voter-approved Death With Diginity Act.
Since it passage in 1998, about 170 people have used the law to end their lives.
Yahoo! News - High Court to Review Assisted Suicide Law
--
More in the Afternoon Update.
The Supreme Court begins the second half of its term with a laundry list of issues and without Chief Justice William H. Rehnquist. The ailing jurist will miss the first two weeks of the session, buit will continue to work from his Virginia home.
--
The Supreme Court has rejected a challenge to its 1973 landmark ruling in Roe v. Wade.
The Court declined without comment to hear the appeal from Norma McCorvey the woman once known as 'Jane Roe.' It was McCorvey complaint against the Texas abortion law that brought the original case to the Court.
For now, the Court has dodged a highly politically charged debate.
Yahoo! News - Court Rejects Challenge to Abortion Ruling
--
The Supreme Court today declined to hear an appeal of a National Park Service policy. The policy asks visitors to avoid walking near Utah's Rainbow Bridge out of respect for native American religion.
The policy was challeneged on the grounds that it unconstitutionally endorsed religion.
The Court let stand a lower court dismissal of the suit.
Yahoo! News - Court Won't Review Utah Park Policy Case
--
The Supreme Court also declined to review whether the poarents of a student killed at Columbine High Schoiol can back out of a settlement with the parents of the gunmen.
Without comment, the justice let stand a lower court ruling that rejected Michael and Vonda Shoels' claim that they accepted the settlement because of a mistake by their attorney.
Yahoo! News - High Court Won't Hear Columbine Dispute
--
The Supreme Court said today that it will hear a Bush admimnistration appeal on the nation's only assisted suicide law.
Justices will review a lower court ruling that says the US government cannot snaction or hold doctors criminally liable for prescribing overdoses under Oregon's voter-approved Death With Diginity Act.
Since it passage in 1998, about 170 people have used the law to end their lives.
Yahoo! News - High Court to Review Assisted Suicide Law
--
More in the Afternoon Update.
Monday, February 21, 2005
Morning Briefing - 2.21.05
Good Morning . . .
Are there still more problems at PBS? Actually, it is the same set of problems. Now they are more and more seeing the light of day and some scrutiny.
In remarks made to PBS station executives, outgoing PBS president Pat Mitchell said that she spoke "at length" to CPB president Kathleen Cox about the 'Buster' debacle and that the decision not distribute the controversial episode came before the letter from Secretary of Education Margaret Spellings.
A spokesperson for Cox says that Cox does not recall any conversation with Mitchell about the 'Sugartime' episode and that Mitchell told her that the decision to cancel the episode came after the letter from Spellings.
What's the real story. No one will ever know. A spokesperson for Mitchell now says Mitchell has been traveling so much it is hard to pin down a date for the conversation with Cox or when the decision to pull the 'Surgartime' episode was made.
It should be obvious that the decision came after the Spellings letter in hopes of saving funding for the 'Ready to Learn Program' that PBS oversees. The Departmnent of Education already announced funding for Ready to Learn would be distributed to other educaltional agencies this year.
Who Framed Buster Rabbit? The Fallout Continues (washingtonpost.com)
Although some PBS producers are becoming sensitive to recent rulings on language and content by the FCC and Congress, the producers of 'Frontline' cannot be included in that group.
Instead of editing an upcoming episode of 'Frontline' for language, WGBH sent a letter to PBS stations warning them about the language. The epsiode will be distributed to stations as is with no edits. Stations that air the unedited episode will be required to sign a letter stating that they are taking the risk.
Will stations take the risk? Many stations in the PBS system are so arrogant that they will run the uneditied episode and later blame the producers for not telling them about it in advance. It will be business as usual for public television stations.
Poynter Online - Forums
--
The big weelend story was the release of 'private' conversations between the President and 'friend" Doug Wead.
The conversations were taped without Bush's knowledge between 1998 and 2000. The discussions on the tapes cover a wide range of topics that include Bush's decision to run for President, what problems he may have with his past, and comments about his opponents.
A review of the information on the tapes uncovers nothing new. It is all information heard before. The tapes do provide some insigvht into the thoughts of a future President.
The most interesting comments I found are about former Attorney General John Ashcroft. On the tapes the president desctibes Ashcroft as a "very good Supreme COurt nominee" or a "fabulous vice president." I would agree with both, but the political realities in 2000 would not allow for Ashcroft to be succesful on the Bush ticket. He was, and remains, more conservative than would have been right for the country.
I wonder if Ashcroft is still on the White House 'short list' for Supreme Court nominees? That would be a interesting hearing and debate.
Why were they released? Simple, Wead has wriitten a book that is due for release. It's all about the book.
The New York Times > Washington > In Secretly Taped Conversations, Glimpses of the Future President
--
There is much speculation about Democrat nominees for President in 2008. Clinton, Liberman, Kerry, Edwards, and a host of others are considering a run.
There is little speculation, thus far, on the Republican ticket for 2008. The Conservative Political Action Confrence over the weekend started to stir interest in the race and poissible candidates.
In a straw poll of possible candidate no one received over 20%, but the names inlcuded top vote getter Rudy Guiliani, Bill Drist, John McCain, George Allen, and Newt Gingrich.
One surprising name that received 18% of the vote was Secretary of State Condoleeza Rice.
American Conservatrive Union chairman David Keene said that the results of the straw poll do not mean that they will support Guliani. "The questions was, who do you think will win the nomination, not who will you vote for in the primaries," Keene said.
Conservatives Predict Giuliani/Rice Ticket in 2008 -- 02/21/2005
--
Several prominent economists including a Nobel Prize winner say that the "transisition costs" for Social Security changes are a "myth."
The trillion dollar totals that Democrats cite as "transition costs" are actually the amount the government is borrowing to pay current Social Security benefits combined with the massive debt already owed to the so-called Social Security "Trust Fund."
"We hear a lot about transition costs," Arizona State University professor Edward Prescott, 2004 winner of the Bank of Sweden Nobel Prize in Economics, said. "But I'm going to use some economic jargon, not 'political accounting' jargon.
"There are no transition costs," Prescott said at the Cato Institute Feb, 9. "Re-labeling debt is not a cost."
Social Security 'Transition Costs' a Myth, Say Economists -- 02/21/2005
--
More later in the Afternoon Update.
Are there still more problems at PBS? Actually, it is the same set of problems. Now they are more and more seeing the light of day and some scrutiny.
In remarks made to PBS station executives, outgoing PBS president Pat Mitchell said that she spoke "at length" to CPB president Kathleen Cox about the 'Buster' debacle and that the decision not distribute the controversial episode came before the letter from Secretary of Education Margaret Spellings.
A spokesperson for Cox says that Cox does not recall any conversation with Mitchell about the 'Sugartime' episode and that Mitchell told her that the decision to cancel the episode came after the letter from Spellings.
What's the real story. No one will ever know. A spokesperson for Mitchell now says Mitchell has been traveling so much it is hard to pin down a date for the conversation with Cox or when the decision to pull the 'Surgartime' episode was made.
It should be obvious that the decision came after the Spellings letter in hopes of saving funding for the 'Ready to Learn Program' that PBS oversees. The Departmnent of Education already announced funding for Ready to Learn would be distributed to other educaltional agencies this year.
Who Framed Buster Rabbit? The Fallout Continues (washingtonpost.com)
Although some PBS producers are becoming sensitive to recent rulings on language and content by the FCC and Congress, the producers of 'Frontline' cannot be included in that group.
Instead of editing an upcoming episode of 'Frontline' for language, WGBH sent a letter to PBS stations warning them about the language. The epsiode will be distributed to stations as is with no edits. Stations that air the unedited episode will be required to sign a letter stating that they are taking the risk.
Will stations take the risk? Many stations in the PBS system are so arrogant that they will run the uneditied episode and later blame the producers for not telling them about it in advance. It will be business as usual for public television stations.
Poynter Online - Forums
--
The big weelend story was the release of 'private' conversations between the President and 'friend" Doug Wead.
The conversations were taped without Bush's knowledge between 1998 and 2000. The discussions on the tapes cover a wide range of topics that include Bush's decision to run for President, what problems he may have with his past, and comments about his opponents.
A review of the information on the tapes uncovers nothing new. It is all information heard before. The tapes do provide some insigvht into the thoughts of a future President.
The most interesting comments I found are about former Attorney General John Ashcroft. On the tapes the president desctibes Ashcroft as a "very good Supreme COurt nominee" or a "fabulous vice president." I would agree with both, but the political realities in 2000 would not allow for Ashcroft to be succesful on the Bush ticket. He was, and remains, more conservative than would have been right for the country.
I wonder if Ashcroft is still on the White House 'short list' for Supreme Court nominees? That would be a interesting hearing and debate.
Why were they released? Simple, Wead has wriitten a book that is due for release. It's all about the book.
The New York Times > Washington > In Secretly Taped Conversations, Glimpses of the Future President
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There is much speculation about Democrat nominees for President in 2008. Clinton, Liberman, Kerry, Edwards, and a host of others are considering a run.
There is little speculation, thus far, on the Republican ticket for 2008. The Conservative Political Action Confrence over the weekend started to stir interest in the race and poissible candidates.
In a straw poll of possible candidate no one received over 20%, but the names inlcuded top vote getter Rudy Guiliani, Bill Drist, John McCain, George Allen, and Newt Gingrich.
One surprising name that received 18% of the vote was Secretary of State Condoleeza Rice.
American Conservatrive Union chairman David Keene said that the results of the straw poll do not mean that they will support Guliani. "The questions was, who do you think will win the nomination, not who will you vote for in the primaries," Keene said.
Conservatives Predict Giuliani/Rice Ticket in 2008 -- 02/21/2005
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Several prominent economists including a Nobel Prize winner say that the "transisition costs" for Social Security changes are a "myth."
The trillion dollar totals that Democrats cite as "transition costs" are actually the amount the government is borrowing to pay current Social Security benefits combined with the massive debt already owed to the so-called Social Security "Trust Fund."
"We hear a lot about transition costs," Arizona State University professor Edward Prescott, 2004 winner of the Bank of Sweden Nobel Prize in Economics, said. "But I'm going to use some economic jargon, not 'political accounting' jargon.
"There are no transition costs," Prescott said at the Cato Institute Feb, 9. "Re-labeling debt is not a cost."
Social Security 'Transition Costs' a Myth, Say Economists -- 02/21/2005
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More later in the Afternoon Update.
Friday, February 18, 2005
Afternoon Update - 1.18.05
Good Afternoon . . .
When does 'No More Late Fees" mean no more late fees?
According to a suit filed by New Jersey Attorney General Peter Harvey, never. Harvey has filed suit against movie renatal ginat Blockbuster for failing to disclose key terms of its policy and some stores are not participating and continue to collect late fees. "Blockbuster's ads are fradualent and decptive," according to Harvey.
The No Late Fee policy hyped by Blockbuster charges for the price of the item rented if not returned within a week after its original due date. When the items is returned, Blockbuster will credit the consumer's account for the cost of the item minus a $1.25 restocking fee.
A Blockbuster spokesperson Karen Raskopf said she was surprised by the suit since Blockbuster was "never directly contacted" by Harvey's office before filing the suit.
She said that Blckbuster stands by its policy and has done everything to explain it to consumers.
MSNBC - Blockbuster’s ‘No More Late Fees’ under fire
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House Republican leaders have notified the 10 most vulnerable lawmakers they will benefit from this year's first ROMP (Retain Our Majority Program) fundraiser.
The 10 members are Reps. Bob Beauprez (Colo.), Mike Fitzpatrick (Pa.), Jim Gerlach (Pa.), Marilyn Musgrave (Colo.), Anne Northup (Ky.), Jon Porter (Nev.), Dave Reichert (Wash.), Rick Renzi (Ariz.), Rob Simmons (Conn.) and Mike Sodrel (Ind.). Rep. Christopher Shays (R-Conn.), who narrowly won his 2004 race, is not on the list.
In addition to identifyinmg close races for Democrat opponents it will also say that races in these districts will be expensive.
GOP's 10 most at-risk
--
Unless events warrant, join me Monday for the Morning Briefing.
When does 'No More Late Fees" mean no more late fees?
According to a suit filed by New Jersey Attorney General Peter Harvey, never. Harvey has filed suit against movie renatal ginat Blockbuster for failing to disclose key terms of its policy and some stores are not participating and continue to collect late fees. "Blockbuster's ads are fradualent and decptive," according to Harvey.
The No Late Fee policy hyped by Blockbuster charges for the price of the item rented if not returned within a week after its original due date. When the items is returned, Blockbuster will credit the consumer's account for the cost of the item minus a $1.25 restocking fee.
A Blockbuster spokesperson Karen Raskopf said she was surprised by the suit since Blockbuster was "never directly contacted" by Harvey's office before filing the suit.
She said that Blckbuster stands by its policy and has done everything to explain it to consumers.
MSNBC - Blockbuster’s ‘No More Late Fees’ under fire
--
House Republican leaders have notified the 10 most vulnerable lawmakers they will benefit from this year's first ROMP (Retain Our Majority Program) fundraiser.
The 10 members are Reps. Bob Beauprez (Colo.), Mike Fitzpatrick (Pa.), Jim Gerlach (Pa.), Marilyn Musgrave (Colo.), Anne Northup (Ky.), Jon Porter (Nev.), Dave Reichert (Wash.), Rick Renzi (Ariz.), Rob Simmons (Conn.) and Mike Sodrel (Ind.). Rep. Christopher Shays (R-Conn.), who narrowly won his 2004 race, is not on the list.
In addition to identifyinmg close races for Democrat opponents it will also say that races in these districts will be expensive.
GOP's 10 most at-risk
--
Unless events warrant, join me Monday for the Morning Briefing.
Morning Briefing - 2.18.05
Good morning . . .
One of Hollywood's leading liberals and FOB (friend of Bill (Clinton)) may no longer be a freind.
According to the NY Daily News, David Geffen appeared at the 92nd St Y for a Q&A session. He was questioned about Hillary Clinton's (D-NY) run for the White House in 2008.
Geffen told the audience, "She can't win, and she's an incredibly polarizing figure. And ambition is just not a good enough reason." Geffen's remarks were met with applause.
New York Daily News
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Failed presidential candidate John Kerry and possible presidentioal candidate Hillary Clinton are offering a bill to change election problems.
The Make Every Vote Count Bill will make election day a national holiday and will allow ex-felons vote. Letting felons vote will provide a few more votes from friends of the Clintons.
Making Election Day another federal holiday will be very costly and is unlikely to drive more voters to the polls. Many businesses and several universities do not "celebrate" several federal holidays including Veterans Day, Labor Day, Martin Luther King Day, and Presidents Day.
While some of the goals of the proposed legislation are good, it is unlikely to see the light of day in a Republican controlled Congress.
A bitter Jihn Kerry said that the bill "has nothing to do with the question of the outcone of 2004 (election). This has everything to do with full ciuvil rights of Americans. Period." Sorry, Senator, no one, but you and your liberal friends question the outcomne of 2004. Bush won. You lost.
Joing Kerry and Clinton at the press conference was new Democrat attack-dog and possible Presidential candidate Barbara Boxer (D-CA).
If Kerry et al are really interested in driving more voters to the ballot box, perhaps they should propose a Constitutional Amendment to hold elections on a Sunday. Many nations around the world hold Sunday elections.
Yahoo! News - Kerry, Clinton Offer Bill to Revamp Election Laws
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The Supreme Court begins the second half of its term next week. Word from the Court is that it will begin withouit Chief Justice William H. Rehnquist on the bemch.
The 80-year-old jurist will continue to listen to arguments and vote on decisions from his Virginia home. Chief Justice Rehnquist continues to recover from thyroid cancer.
Yahoo! News - Rehnquist to Miss High Court's Opening
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The Iowa Supreme Court ruled that illegal aliens are not entitled to a driver's license in the state.
The court upheld a ruling by a Polk County Court.
"We conclude that the practice of denying driver's licenses to illegal aliens violates none of the statutory and constitutional provisions raised by the classes," the Supreme Court ruling said.
Iowa's assistant attorney general, Mark Hunacek, said the federal courts have concluded there is no constitutional guarantee for illegal aliens to have a driver's license.
In light of recent Congressional action this case and others like it will eventually find their way into the federral court system.
Seattle Post-Intelligencer: AP - U.S. Headlines
--
More in the Afternoon Update.
One of Hollywood's leading liberals and FOB (friend of Bill (Clinton)) may no longer be a freind.
According to the NY Daily News, David Geffen appeared at the 92nd St Y for a Q&A session. He was questioned about Hillary Clinton's (D-NY) run for the White House in 2008.
Geffen told the audience, "She can't win, and she's an incredibly polarizing figure. And ambition is just not a good enough reason." Geffen's remarks were met with applause.
New York Daily News
--
Failed presidential candidate John Kerry and possible presidentioal candidate Hillary Clinton are offering a bill to change election problems.
The Make Every Vote Count Bill will make election day a national holiday and will allow ex-felons vote. Letting felons vote will provide a few more votes from friends of the Clintons.
Making Election Day another federal holiday will be very costly and is unlikely to drive more voters to the polls. Many businesses and several universities do not "celebrate" several federal holidays including Veterans Day, Labor Day, Martin Luther King Day, and Presidents Day.
While some of the goals of the proposed legislation are good, it is unlikely to see the light of day in a Republican controlled Congress.
A bitter Jihn Kerry said that the bill "has nothing to do with the question of the outcone of 2004 (election). This has everything to do with full ciuvil rights of Americans. Period." Sorry, Senator, no one, but you and your liberal friends question the outcomne of 2004. Bush won. You lost.
Joing Kerry and Clinton at the press conference was new Democrat attack-dog and possible Presidential candidate Barbara Boxer (D-CA).
If Kerry et al are really interested in driving more voters to the ballot box, perhaps they should propose a Constitutional Amendment to hold elections on a Sunday. Many nations around the world hold Sunday elections.
Yahoo! News - Kerry, Clinton Offer Bill to Revamp Election Laws
--
The Supreme Court begins the second half of its term next week. Word from the Court is that it will begin withouit Chief Justice William H. Rehnquist on the bemch.
The 80-year-old jurist will continue to listen to arguments and vote on decisions from his Virginia home. Chief Justice Rehnquist continues to recover from thyroid cancer.
Yahoo! News - Rehnquist to Miss High Court's Opening
--
The Iowa Supreme Court ruled that illegal aliens are not entitled to a driver's license in the state.
The court upheld a ruling by a Polk County Court.
"We conclude that the practice of denying driver's licenses to illegal aliens violates none of the statutory and constitutional provisions raised by the classes," the Supreme Court ruling said.
Iowa's assistant attorney general, Mark Hunacek, said the federal courts have concluded there is no constitutional guarantee for illegal aliens to have a driver's license.
In light of recent Congressional action this case and others like it will eventually find their way into the federral court system.
Seattle Post-Intelligencer: AP - U.S. Headlines
--
More in the Afternoon Update.
Thursday, February 17, 2005
Afternoon Update - 2.17.05
Good Afternoon . . .
The House joined the Senate in passing legislation that would curb abuses in Class Action lawsuits.
The aim of the bill is to protect businesses and prevent attorneys from repeaing huge profits in carefully selected state courts like those found in Marion County Illinois.
Lawsuits that target companies accused of wrongdoing of large numbers of people will now go into the federal court system.
House Majoprity Whip Roy Blunt (R-MO) said, "Moving those cases to federal court will ensure that state judges will no longer routinely approve settlements in which the lawyers receive large fees and the class members receive virtually nothing."
The bill no goes to the President who is likely to sign it into law Friday.
Yahoo! News - Congress OKs Law on Class Action Suits
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It will cost more to send a letter soon. The US Postal Service is looking into raising rates for a first class letter. Currently at 37 cents, sources at the Postal Service say it could go to 39 cents or, more than likely, to 45 cents.
The Postal Servoce will not say when the rate will increase only that it will in the near future.
Yahoo! News - Postal Board Begins Rate Increase Process
--
Several major decisions await the nine justices of the Supreme Court as it enter the second half of its term.
The justices will deal with cases on internet file sharing, free speech, Title IX, the death penality, the Ten Commandments, and medical marijuana.
It will be an interesting session. The main questions is what role will ailing Chief Justice William H. Rehnquist take in the proceedings and decisions. And will the 80 year-old jurist retire at the end of the session.
Yahoo! News - Death Penalty, Commandments Await Court
--
As always there are some interesting items on TKS on National Review online.
--
More tomorrow in the Morning Briefing.
The House joined the Senate in passing legislation that would curb abuses in Class Action lawsuits.
The aim of the bill is to protect businesses and prevent attorneys from repeaing huge profits in carefully selected state courts like those found in Marion County Illinois.
Lawsuits that target companies accused of wrongdoing of large numbers of people will now go into the federal court system.
House Majoprity Whip Roy Blunt (R-MO) said, "Moving those cases to federal court will ensure that state judges will no longer routinely approve settlements in which the lawyers receive large fees and the class members receive virtually nothing."
The bill no goes to the President who is likely to sign it into law Friday.
Yahoo! News - Congress OKs Law on Class Action Suits
--
It will cost more to send a letter soon. The US Postal Service is looking into raising rates for a first class letter. Currently at 37 cents, sources at the Postal Service say it could go to 39 cents or, more than likely, to 45 cents.
The Postal Servoce will not say when the rate will increase only that it will in the near future.
Yahoo! News - Postal Board Begins Rate Increase Process
--
Several major decisions await the nine justices of the Supreme Court as it enter the second half of its term.
The justices will deal with cases on internet file sharing, free speech, Title IX, the death penality, the Ten Commandments, and medical marijuana.
It will be an interesting session. The main questions is what role will ailing Chief Justice William H. Rehnquist take in the proceedings and decisions. And will the 80 year-old jurist retire at the end of the session.
Yahoo! News - Death Penalty, Commandments Await Court
--
As always there are some interesting items on TKS on National Review online.
--
More tomorrow in the Morning Briefing.
Morning Briefing - 2.17.05
Good morning . . .
Today President Bush announced his nominee for the newly created post of director of national intelligence.
John Negroponte, the US Ambassador to Iraq, was chosen by the preident to "lead a unified community" of intelligence agencies including the CIA.
"The director's responsibility is straightforward and demanding. John will make sure those whose duty it is to defend America have the information we need to make the right decisions," Bush said.
The newly created position will overseen 15 intelligence gathering agencies and was the primary recommendation of the 9/11 Commission.
US News Article | Reuters.com
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Abortion will be a crime in South Dakota if states are giving the right to outlaw the medical procedure.
A committee in the South Dakota House passed the recommendation last Friday that would make it a felony to perform an abortion in the state. If passed, the law would go into affect if Roe v Wade were overturned by the Supreme Court. The bill would allow exceptions for cases where the life of the mother is at risk.
AP Wire | 02/11/2005 | House panel approves measure to make abortion a felony
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Howard Dean has been the Chairman of the DNC for less than a week and there is controversy over his words and actions.
Before his election to the post Dean "joked" last Friday in from of members of the Congressional Black Caucus, "You think the Republican National Committee could get this many people of color in a single room? Only if they had the hotel staff in here."
Not everyone thought it was funny. On Monday, Republic National Commitee Chairman Ken Mehlman told ABC News the remark was "pretty offensive. It's pretty racist, if you ask me."
On Tuesday former Congressman JC Watts and Maryland Lt, Governor issued a joint statement that said in part, "We are simply outraged over recent racially insensitive remarks made by Democratic National Committee Chair Howard Dean. In his comments to the Democratic Black Caucus, Dean equates African-Americans who support Republicans to hired help.
"This kind of backward thinking reminds us of a horrible time in history when blacks were only seen as servants." Watts and Steel are demanding an apolgy for the racist statements. There is no word from Dean or the DNC.
NewsMax.com: Inside Cover Story
In another incident, Howard Dean requested a press blackout of a debate with top Penatgon officvial Ruchard Perle then changed his mind.
Event coordinator Gabrielle Williams sent an e-mail to news agencies requesting the blackout Wednesday saying she "was just informed of the request."
Less than two hours later Williams had the embarassing mission to call press agencies and announce that it would be an open event.
Dean spokesperson Laura Gross said that Dean changed his mind after an inquiry from the Assocxiated Press and in light of his new position as DNC Chairman. Gross told reporters that the event was scheduled before Dean's election and was originally planned to be closed to media.
The more troubling part of this incident came from Dean's representative on the lecture circuit Don Walker. Walker is President of the Harry Walker Agency said that many of Dean speeches and events are closed to press. Saying it was up to the speaker to make that decision, Walker said that with Dean, "We default to a clossed press policy."
Since Dean changed his mind, it seems that the DNC has learned how to flip-flop, but not how to lead a party.
Yahoo! News - Dean Seeks Media Blackout, Changes Mind
--
This week's column from Ann COulter expresses her view on Ward Churchill and academic freedom.
HUMAN EVENTS ONLINE :: Not Crazy Horse, Just Crazy by Ann Coulter
--
More in the AFternoon Update.
Today President Bush announced his nominee for the newly created post of director of national intelligence.
John Negroponte, the US Ambassador to Iraq, was chosen by the preident to "lead a unified community" of intelligence agencies including the CIA.
"The director's responsibility is straightforward and demanding. John will make sure those whose duty it is to defend America have the information we need to make the right decisions," Bush said.
The newly created position will overseen 15 intelligence gathering agencies and was the primary recommendation of the 9/11 Commission.
US News Article | Reuters.com
--
Abortion will be a crime in South Dakota if states are giving the right to outlaw the medical procedure.
A committee in the South Dakota House passed the recommendation last Friday that would make it a felony to perform an abortion in the state. If passed, the law would go into affect if Roe v Wade were overturned by the Supreme Court. The bill would allow exceptions for cases where the life of the mother is at risk.
AP Wire | 02/11/2005 | House panel approves measure to make abortion a felony
--
Howard Dean has been the Chairman of the DNC for less than a week and there is controversy over his words and actions.
Before his election to the post Dean "joked" last Friday in from of members of the Congressional Black Caucus, "You think the Republican National Committee could get this many people of color in a single room? Only if they had the hotel staff in here."
Not everyone thought it was funny. On Monday, Republic National Commitee Chairman Ken Mehlman told ABC News the remark was "pretty offensive. It's pretty racist, if you ask me."
On Tuesday former Congressman JC Watts and Maryland Lt, Governor issued a joint statement that said in part, "We are simply outraged over recent racially insensitive remarks made by Democratic National Committee Chair Howard Dean. In his comments to the Democratic Black Caucus, Dean equates African-Americans who support Republicans to hired help.
"This kind of backward thinking reminds us of a horrible time in history when blacks were only seen as servants." Watts and Steel are demanding an apolgy for the racist statements. There is no word from Dean or the DNC.
NewsMax.com: Inside Cover Story
In another incident, Howard Dean requested a press blackout of a debate with top Penatgon officvial Ruchard Perle then changed his mind.
Event coordinator Gabrielle Williams sent an e-mail to news agencies requesting the blackout Wednesday saying she "was just informed of the request."
Less than two hours later Williams had the embarassing mission to call press agencies and announce that it would be an open event.
Dean spokesperson Laura Gross said that Dean changed his mind after an inquiry from the Assocxiated Press and in light of his new position as DNC Chairman. Gross told reporters that the event was scheduled before Dean's election and was originally planned to be closed to media.
The more troubling part of this incident came from Dean's representative on the lecture circuit Don Walker. Walker is President of the Harry Walker Agency said that many of Dean speeches and events are closed to press. Saying it was up to the speaker to make that decision, Walker said that with Dean, "We default to a clossed press policy."
Since Dean changed his mind, it seems that the DNC has learned how to flip-flop, but not how to lead a party.
Yahoo! News - Dean Seeks Media Blackout, Changes Mind
--
This week's column from Ann COulter expresses her view on Ward Churchill and academic freedom.
HUMAN EVENTS ONLINE :: Not Crazy Horse, Just Crazy by Ann Coulter
--
More in the AFternoon Update.
Wednesday, February 16, 2005
Afternoon Update - 2.16.05
Good Afternoon . . .
There is an intersting article in US News and World Report about the affect of the blogsphere on politics.
In the 2004 election cycle blogs and bloggers were cherred and blamed for the rise and fall of Howard Dean, for Howard Dean's ability to raise funds, for the Swift Boat verterans, and for John Kerry's loss in the Presidential election.
Blogs and bloogers have also been cheered and blamed for the demise of Dan Rather and CBS News, and the downfall and resignation of CNN's Eason Jordan.
It is a little hard to find, but well worth reading.
--
In case anyone is interested, the National Hockey League season has been cancelled.
--
The fallout continues from the fedral court ruling that upheld a lower court that said reporters do NOT have a First Amendment right to refuse to testify and reveal sorces to a federa; grand jury.
The news industry is pinning its hopes on a fedrral shield law. There are currently two proposals in Congress that would apply shield protection to reporters similar to laws in 31 states.
These laws protect reporters from prosecution for refusing to reveal sources to law enforcement, grand juries, and at trial. These laws often prevent indictments and prosecution of serious offenders including murderers and rapists.
In Wake of Plame Ruling, Federal Shield Law Seen as Best Hope
--
The US House passed a law that would substantially increase fines for indenceny broadcast on US radio and televison stations.
In addition to increased fines, the legislation allows the FCC to fine an individual or staion without prior warning and can hold a revocation hearing after the third offense.
The new law requires the FCC to answer a consumer's complaint within six months.
It is likely that this law will not go into affect for months or years. Opponents of the law will liekly seek refuge in the federal court system.
Seattle Post-Intelligencer: AP - Washington, D.C.: Highlights: House's indecency legislation
--
More tomorrow in the Morning Briefing.
There is an intersting article in US News and World Report about the affect of the blogsphere on politics.
In the 2004 election cycle blogs and bloggers were cherred and blamed for the rise and fall of Howard Dean, for Howard Dean's ability to raise funds, for the Swift Boat verterans, and for John Kerry's loss in the Presidential election.
Blogs and bloogers have also been cheered and blamed for the demise of Dan Rather and CBS News, and the downfall and resignation of CNN's Eason Jordan.
It is a little hard to find, but well worth reading.
--
In case anyone is interested, the National Hockey League season has been cancelled.
--
The fallout continues from the fedral court ruling that upheld a lower court that said reporters do NOT have a First Amendment right to refuse to testify and reveal sorces to a federa; grand jury.
The news industry is pinning its hopes on a fedrral shield law. There are currently two proposals in Congress that would apply shield protection to reporters similar to laws in 31 states.
These laws protect reporters from prosecution for refusing to reveal sources to law enforcement, grand juries, and at trial. These laws often prevent indictments and prosecution of serious offenders including murderers and rapists.
In Wake of Plame Ruling, Federal Shield Law Seen as Best Hope
--
The US House passed a law that would substantially increase fines for indenceny broadcast on US radio and televison stations.
In addition to increased fines, the legislation allows the FCC to fine an individual or staion without prior warning and can hold a revocation hearing after the third offense.
The new law requires the FCC to answer a consumer's complaint within six months.
It is likely that this law will not go into affect for months or years. Opponents of the law will liekly seek refuge in the federal court system.
Seattle Post-Intelligencer: AP - Washington, D.C.: Highlights: House's indecency legislation
--
More tomorrow in the Morning Briefing.
Morning Briefing - 2.16.05
Good Morning . . .
The drama surrounding Rathergate and the report on the ill-conceived segemnt on the President is still festering at CBS.
Following the release of the report CBS requested the resignations of three prominent news officials deeply involved in the scandal. Josh Howard, Betsy West, and Mary Murphy have yet to resign and continue to collect their paychecks. They will do so until their contracts expire.
While most of the suspects remain silent and have hired sttormeys, Josh Howard, executive producer of '60 Minutes Wednesday,' is speaking out against his colleagues and CBS management.
Try to revise history and his role in the scandal, Howard is now asking CBS President Leslie Moonves to retract statements made about Howard, to restore his reputation in the news industry, and to admit his role and the role of CBS News Prsident Andrew Heyward in the matter.
A report in the New York Observer says that Moonves may be liable for a claim of defamation because in his remarlks he failed to say "in my opinion." Instead Moonves said 'the producer did this . . the producer did that.'
A CBS source according to the article is standing behind the inverstgative report into Rathergate and that Howard was simply trying to revise histoiry and blame others for his failure.
With the upcoming departure of Dan Rather, CBS News is planning a tribute to the primary culprit in the scandal on his final day in the anchor chair March 9. It is unlikely that Rather will come clean during the interview. It is unlikely that any reporter at CBS News has the nerve to ask the questions.
There is, however, a fatal flaw in the investigative report into Rathergate, it failed to declare that the memos were not authentic and it failed to see the liberal bias that has permeated CBS News for decades.
The CBS Three Won’t Slink Off; Hiring Lawyers
--
There is good news coming from PBS headquarters in Virginia. PBS President Pat Mitchell is resigning next year.
Mitchell who came from CNN failed to lead the taxpayer dependent network into propsperity and growth.
Under her watch PBS ratings declined, station revenue declined. PBS dues soared, and membership declined.
Her failures were also the architect of the 'Postcards From Buster' debacle and demonstrated the arropgance of PBS and many of its stations. Critics from the left and the right admoished PBS for the 'Buster' affair.
Whoever PBS finds to replace Mitchell, it, like CBS, has lost its credibility, failed in its mission, and is not a good steward of taxpayer money.
While the administration has cut the appropriation for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, it is not enough. Personally, I would rather see empty Amtrak trains than the liberal bias and arrogance that comes from public television.
New York Post Online Edition: news
--
The rhetoric is heating up in the Senate over President Bush's list of judicial nominees. The list contains the names of several nominees denied votes by a Democrat filibuster.
Senate Majority Leader Henry Reid (D-NV) says the democrats will likely employ the same tactics that prevented the nominees from receiving a vote on the Senate floor.
When asked about the nominees by reporters, Reid said "unless there's something that is new that I'm not aware of with each of these men and women, we will vote the same way we did in the past."
Unfortuinately for the new head obstructionist in the Senate the nominees did not receive a vote up or down. They did receive the refusal of Democrats to abide by the Advise and Consent clause of the Constitution.
Will the Republic leaders in the Senate use a rule change to prevent a filibuster for judicial nominees? Let's hope so.
If the Democrats can find enough votes to prevent confirmation, fine. That would give the nominees the appropriate conclusion to their nomination. Confirmation should not be stopped by a minority of Senators.
Republican Corrects the Record on Judicial Nominees -- 02/16/2005
--
More in the Afternoon Update.
The drama surrounding Rathergate and the report on the ill-conceived segemnt on the President is still festering at CBS.
Following the release of the report CBS requested the resignations of three prominent news officials deeply involved in the scandal. Josh Howard, Betsy West, and Mary Murphy have yet to resign and continue to collect their paychecks. They will do so until their contracts expire.
While most of the suspects remain silent and have hired sttormeys, Josh Howard, executive producer of '60 Minutes Wednesday,' is speaking out against his colleagues and CBS management.
Try to revise history and his role in the scandal, Howard is now asking CBS President Leslie Moonves to retract statements made about Howard, to restore his reputation in the news industry, and to admit his role and the role of CBS News Prsident Andrew Heyward in the matter.
A report in the New York Observer says that Moonves may be liable for a claim of defamation because in his remarlks he failed to say "in my opinion." Instead Moonves said 'the producer did this . . the producer did that.'
A CBS source according to the article is standing behind the inverstgative report into Rathergate and that Howard was simply trying to revise histoiry and blame others for his failure.
With the upcoming departure of Dan Rather, CBS News is planning a tribute to the primary culprit in the scandal on his final day in the anchor chair March 9. It is unlikely that Rather will come clean during the interview. It is unlikely that any reporter at CBS News has the nerve to ask the questions.
There is, however, a fatal flaw in the investigative report into Rathergate, it failed to declare that the memos were not authentic and it failed to see the liberal bias that has permeated CBS News for decades.
The CBS Three Won’t Slink Off; Hiring Lawyers
--
There is good news coming from PBS headquarters in Virginia. PBS President Pat Mitchell is resigning next year.
Mitchell who came from CNN failed to lead the taxpayer dependent network into propsperity and growth.
Under her watch PBS ratings declined, station revenue declined. PBS dues soared, and membership declined.
Her failures were also the architect of the 'Postcards From Buster' debacle and demonstrated the arropgance of PBS and many of its stations. Critics from the left and the right admoished PBS for the 'Buster' affair.
Whoever PBS finds to replace Mitchell, it, like CBS, has lost its credibility, failed in its mission, and is not a good steward of taxpayer money.
While the administration has cut the appropriation for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, it is not enough. Personally, I would rather see empty Amtrak trains than the liberal bias and arrogance that comes from public television.
New York Post Online Edition: news
--
The rhetoric is heating up in the Senate over President Bush's list of judicial nominees. The list contains the names of several nominees denied votes by a Democrat filibuster.
Senate Majority Leader Henry Reid (D-NV) says the democrats will likely employ the same tactics that prevented the nominees from receiving a vote on the Senate floor.
When asked about the nominees by reporters, Reid said "unless there's something that is new that I'm not aware of with each of these men and women, we will vote the same way we did in the past."
Unfortuinately for the new head obstructionist in the Senate the nominees did not receive a vote up or down. They did receive the refusal of Democrats to abide by the Advise and Consent clause of the Constitution.
Will the Republic leaders in the Senate use a rule change to prevent a filibuster for judicial nominees? Let's hope so.
If the Democrats can find enough votes to prevent confirmation, fine. That would give the nominees the appropriate conclusion to their nomination. Confirmation should not be stopped by a minority of Senators.
Republican Corrects the Record on Judicial Nominees -- 02/16/2005
--
More in the Afternoon Update.
Tuesday, February 15, 2005
Afternoon Update - 2.15.05
Good Afternoon . . .
Following this update there will be another in my series of editorial comments about the problems with PBS. Stay tuned.
--
Failed presidential candidate John Kerry has made statements in the past two days that seem contradictory. While that is not unusual for the junior senator from Massachusetts, it's just another way for Kerry to keep his name in the media spotlight.
As reported earlier, Kerry believes that his plan (still no details) for Iraq would put the US in a better position.
Now, in an apparent flip-flop, Kerry has said that he will endorse the President's request for $82 billion dollars for Iraq and Afghanastan. Huh?
Let's see, he was againbst the war, but voted for it. He voted against funding the war. His plan is better than Bush's and now he supports more money for the troops. Could somebody explain this.
US News Article | Reuters.com
--
It's just the flu. Michael Jackson was "rushed" to a Santa Maria hospital shortly before court this morning due to an "unknown" illness. The "illness" turns out to be the flu. Nothing very serious, but Jackson will remain in the hospital.
Judge Rodney Melville announced jury selection will be delayed for a week. Additional delays beyond next week seem possible due to the judge's calendar.
Was it necessary for Jackson to be taken to a hospital? Why didn't one of Jackson "servants" call a doctor to Neverland? Was the "rush" to the hospital for publicity reason? That one is easy, YES!
Michael Jackson news: Michael Jackson hospitalized with flu, jury selection delayed
--
Next . . the problems at PBS continue and more tomorrow in the Morning Briefing.
Following this update there will be another in my series of editorial comments about the problems with PBS. Stay tuned.
--
Failed presidential candidate John Kerry has made statements in the past two days that seem contradictory. While that is not unusual for the junior senator from Massachusetts, it's just another way for Kerry to keep his name in the media spotlight.
As reported earlier, Kerry believes that his plan (still no details) for Iraq would put the US in a better position.
Now, in an apparent flip-flop, Kerry has said that he will endorse the President's request for $82 billion dollars for Iraq and Afghanastan. Huh?
Let's see, he was againbst the war, but voted for it. He voted against funding the war. His plan is better than Bush's and now he supports more money for the troops. Could somebody explain this.
US News Article | Reuters.com
--
It's just the flu. Michael Jackson was "rushed" to a Santa Maria hospital shortly before court this morning due to an "unknown" illness. The "illness" turns out to be the flu. Nothing very serious, but Jackson will remain in the hospital.
Judge Rodney Melville announced jury selection will be delayed for a week. Additional delays beyond next week seem possible due to the judge's calendar.
Was it necessary for Jackson to be taken to a hospital? Why didn't one of Jackson "servants" call a doctor to Neverland? Was the "rush" to the hospital for publicity reason? That one is easy, YES!
Michael Jackson news: Michael Jackson hospitalized with flu, jury selection delayed
--
Next . . the problems at PBS continue and more tomorrow in the Morning Briefing.
Morning Briefing - 2.15.05
Good Morning . . .
A federal appeals panel upheld a ruling that could cost two reporters jail time for refusing to reveal sources to investigators probing the leak of an undercover CIA agent's name to the media.
The three judge panel at the US Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia sided with prosecutors in their attempt to compel The New York Times' Judith Miller and Time's Matthew Cooper to testify before a federal grand jury.
"We agree with the District Court that there is no First Amendment privilege protecting the information sought," Judge David B. Sentelle said in the ruling, which was unanimous.
Attorneys for the reporters say they will appeal the ruling to the full appeals court.
Appeals Court Upholds Contempt Rulings in Plame Case
--
Breaking news: Micheal Jackson has been taken to a Santa Maria hospital for an unknown illness. Reports are coming in that the "alledged" pedophile collapsed on his way into court.
Judge Rodeney Melville said he is awaiting word from the doctors in the emergency room about Jakcson's condition before deciding to continue with jury selection.
Whatever the decision of the judge, the current jury pool is contaminated in favor of Jackson. Sympathy for an "undisclosed" illness will certainly cause potential jurors to side with the defense.
In another move calculated to sway the jury in Jackson's favor, defense attorneys issued a witness list that includes many Hollywood stars and accused rapist Kobe Bryant. Judge Melville has said that not all famous people will testify. Just the prospect of seeing Stevie Wonder, Diana Ross, and Kobe Bryant will more than likely sway the jury.
Attention Judge Melville, these two actons have contaminated the jury pool, it is time to start over with jury selection and a change of venue.
Yahoo! News - Jackson Hospitalized En Route to Court
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Failed presidential candidate John Kerry can not stop running for president. Meeting with defense reporters Kerry said that his plans for Iraq would have put the United States in a better position than it is.
As usual, Kerry gave no details of those plans but said he would introduce legislation that will increase the size of the military and increase military pay and benefits.
The porposals are the same that Kerry offered during the failed campaign and similar to proposed legislation floating in Congress.
Bottom line: Nithing new.
Yahoo! News - Sen. Kerry Touts His Military Proposals
--
More in the Afternoon Update
A federal appeals panel upheld a ruling that could cost two reporters jail time for refusing to reveal sources to investigators probing the leak of an undercover CIA agent's name to the media.
The three judge panel at the US Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia sided with prosecutors in their attempt to compel The New York Times' Judith Miller and Time's Matthew Cooper to testify before a federal grand jury.
"We agree with the District Court that there is no First Amendment privilege protecting the information sought," Judge David B. Sentelle said in the ruling, which was unanimous.
Attorneys for the reporters say they will appeal the ruling to the full appeals court.
Appeals Court Upholds Contempt Rulings in Plame Case
--
Breaking news: Micheal Jackson has been taken to a Santa Maria hospital for an unknown illness. Reports are coming in that the "alledged" pedophile collapsed on his way into court.
Judge Rodeney Melville said he is awaiting word from the doctors in the emergency room about Jakcson's condition before deciding to continue with jury selection.
Whatever the decision of the judge, the current jury pool is contaminated in favor of Jackson. Sympathy for an "undisclosed" illness will certainly cause potential jurors to side with the defense.
In another move calculated to sway the jury in Jackson's favor, defense attorneys issued a witness list that includes many Hollywood stars and accused rapist Kobe Bryant. Judge Melville has said that not all famous people will testify. Just the prospect of seeing Stevie Wonder, Diana Ross, and Kobe Bryant will more than likely sway the jury.
Attention Judge Melville, these two actons have contaminated the jury pool, it is time to start over with jury selection and a change of venue.
Yahoo! News - Jackson Hospitalized En Route to Court
--
Failed presidential candidate John Kerry can not stop running for president. Meeting with defense reporters Kerry said that his plans for Iraq would have put the United States in a better position than it is.
As usual, Kerry gave no details of those plans but said he would introduce legislation that will increase the size of the military and increase military pay and benefits.
The porposals are the same that Kerry offered during the failed campaign and similar to proposed legislation floating in Congress.
Bottom line: Nithing new.
Yahoo! News - Sen. Kerry Touts His Military Proposals
--
More in the Afternoon Update
Monday, February 14, 2005
Afternoon Update - 2.14.05
Good Afternoon . . .
It did not take very long for a high ranking Republican to critcize the election of Howard Dean as the Chairman of the DNC.
New York GOP Chairman Stephen Minarik said Dean's election shows the Democratic leaders "have refused to learn the lessons of the past two election cycles."
Minarik said that Howard Dean is the personification of the national democratic party, a party that is radical, out of country, and out of touch with ordinary Americans.
Minarik is just verbalizing what many GOP leaders are saying privately. He does, however, make a valid point.
Newsday.com - AP New York
--
In a swearing-in ceremony for Attorney General Alberto Gonzales Prsident Bush urged Congress to reauthorize the USA Patriot Act. The Act was passed after the 9/11 attacks and has been valuable in fighting terrorism. "We must not allow the passage of time or the illusion of safety to weaken our resolve in this new war" on terrorism, Bush said.
The President also argued that the Senate must give judicial nominees an up-or-down vote without delay to fll vacancies on the Federal Bench.
Yahoo! News - Bush Urges Renewal of Patriot Act
--
No sooner did the President chide the Senate about judicial nominees when the White House sent a list of 20 judicial nominees (some nominated before).
Now the fun begins. Official list from the White House.
--
More tomorrow in the Morning Briefing.
It did not take very long for a high ranking Republican to critcize the election of Howard Dean as the Chairman of the DNC.
New York GOP Chairman Stephen Minarik said Dean's election shows the Democratic leaders "have refused to learn the lessons of the past two election cycles."
Minarik said that Howard Dean is the personification of the national democratic party, a party that is radical, out of country, and out of touch with ordinary Americans.
Minarik is just verbalizing what many GOP leaders are saying privately. He does, however, make a valid point.
Newsday.com - AP New York
--
In a swearing-in ceremony for Attorney General Alberto Gonzales Prsident Bush urged Congress to reauthorize the USA Patriot Act. The Act was passed after the 9/11 attacks and has been valuable in fighting terrorism. "We must not allow the passage of time or the illusion of safety to weaken our resolve in this new war" on terrorism, Bush said.
The President also argued that the Senate must give judicial nominees an up-or-down vote without delay to fll vacancies on the Federal Bench.
Yahoo! News - Bush Urges Renewal of Patriot Act
--
No sooner did the President chide the Senate about judicial nominees when the White House sent a list of 20 judicial nominees (some nominated before).
Now the fun begins. Official list from the White House.
--
More tomorrow in the Morning Briefing.
Morning Briefing - 2.14.05
Good morning . . .
The Democrats did it. They actually did it. It was a sure bet, the Democratic National Committee elected former presidentail also-ran Howard Dean as its new chairman.
Deam who is best known for the collapse of his presidential effort after "the scream" was elected on a voice vote Satiurday. Any sign of competition or other candidates slowly drifted away during the last week before the DNC's winter conference.
Is this a Respublican's dream or the final downfall of the Democratic Party? It could be both. While Dean is an excellent fundraiser, his caustic comments often reflect badly on him and the party. Plus fundraising can only get you so far. Just ask Terry McAuliffe. Is Dean too left for mainstream Democrats? Yes. His anti-war, Bush-bashing campaign was worse, if possible, than John Kerry's.
Will the Democrats gain seats in the 2006 mid-term election? No, in fact, they will lose more. With few exceptions all Democratic seats in the Senate are vulnerable.
Yahoo! News - New DNC Head Dean Looks to Rebuild Party
--
It is turning into a very slow news day.
More in the Afternoon Update.
The Democrats did it. They actually did it. It was a sure bet, the Democratic National Committee elected former presidentail also-ran Howard Dean as its new chairman.
Deam who is best known for the collapse of his presidential effort after "the scream" was elected on a voice vote Satiurday. Any sign of competition or other candidates slowly drifted away during the last week before the DNC's winter conference.
Is this a Respublican's dream or the final downfall of the Democratic Party? It could be both. While Dean is an excellent fundraiser, his caustic comments often reflect badly on him and the party. Plus fundraising can only get you so far. Just ask Terry McAuliffe. Is Dean too left for mainstream Democrats? Yes. His anti-war, Bush-bashing campaign was worse, if possible, than John Kerry's.
Will the Democrats gain seats in the 2006 mid-term election? No, in fact, they will lose more. With few exceptions all Democratic seats in the Senate are vulnerable.
Yahoo! News - New DNC Head Dean Looks to Rebuild Party
--
It is turning into a very slow news day.
More in the Afternoon Update.
Friday, February 11, 2005
Check This Out - Extra!
A CNN Executive has resigned in the aftermath of remarks made at the Davos Wordl Economic Forum.
Eason Jordam CNN chief news executive resigned Friday due to the furor over remrks made in January that journalists killed in Iraq had been "targeted" by coalition forces.
Conference attendees said that Jordan attempted to backtrack the remarks, but was unsuccessful. Until Friday CNN had backed Jordan's version of events.
Although a videotape of the event exists neither CNN or Forum organizers would release it to the public or Congressional investigators.
Yahoo! News - CNN News Executive Eason Jordan Quits
Eason Jordam CNN chief news executive resigned Friday due to the furor over remrks made in January that journalists killed in Iraq had been "targeted" by coalition forces.
Conference attendees said that Jordan attempted to backtrack the remarks, but was unsuccessful. Until Friday CNN had backed Jordan's version of events.
Although a videotape of the event exists neither CNN or Forum organizers would release it to the public or Congressional investigators.
Yahoo! News - CNN News Executive Eason Jordan Quits
Thursday, February 10, 2005
Afternoon Update - 2.10.05
Good Afternoon . . .
Many years ago the Federal Communications Commission mandated television stations convert to digital technology and give up their current analog channels. The FCC did this wiuthout setting any technical standards or wondering how the transition would be funded and how consumers could afford digital capable telvision sets costing thousands of dollars. Just another unfunded federal mandate.
The upsdie of digital broadcasting is high definition television (HDTV) which provides sharper images and digitally enhanced sound. When stations are not broadcasting in HDTV they have the ability to multicast. That is to transmit multiple programming streams. Many stations want to take advantage of multicasting to provide additional local programs, weather and news channels, and revnue for the station.
Unfortunately for those stations using multicasting techniques most of the channels will only be seen by NON cable subscribers. Cable systems only want to carry the "primary" signal of the station whether it is broadcasting in HDTV or multicasting. Therefore, the other channels for cable subscribers are non-existant and tv stations lose millions of dollars on equipment and programming for these channels.
The FCC has joined with the cable companies and refused to rule that cable systems "must carry" all of the channels from local broadcasters. The original "must carry" rule for local stations saved many independent and small public television stations. Now the FCC has turned its back on all television stations which it forced to spend hundreds of millions of dollars to convert to digital broadcasting with no opportunity to EVER make back the investment.
This ruling and others like it is likely to cause the failure of the few remaining independent stations and owners and most small public broadcasting sttaions.
Top Technology News Sponsored by Audi | Reuters.com
--
Using his signature Popemobile, Pope John Paul II left a Rome hosptial today and returned to the Vatican.
Reports say that the Pope has recovered from the respiratory problem that caused him to be rushed to the hospital 10 days ago.
Vatican officials and doctors will assist the Pope in fully recovering from his latest illness to be able to fully participate in Easter ceremonies.
BBC NEWS | Europe | 'Cured' Pope returns to Vatican
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James Sensenbrenner (R-WI) finally got the bill he wanted. The House passed a bill that would require states to verify the citizenship of applicants for a driver's license. Under the provisions of the bill states may only issues licenses to US citizens or legal immigrants.
Sensenbrenner said, "Today there are over 350 valid drivers license designs issued by the 50 states. We all know it's very difficult for security officials at airports to tell the real ID cards from the counterfeit ones."
The bill moves to the Senate where Republicans want it to be part of a larger immigration reform package.
Yahoo! News - House OKs Citizenship Check for Licenses
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In what may seem a surprise the Senate passed a bill that would limit class action suits. The bill is part of the President's tort reform package.
Under the legislation, long sought by big business, large multistate class action lawsuits like the ones that have been brought against tobacco companies could no longer be heard in small state courts. These suits would now be filed in the federal court system. Federal judges are often reluctant to certify class action suits.
The bill "is designed to rein in the lawsuit abuses, and it does just that," Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist, R-Tenn. said. "A plaintiff may end up in federal court, yes, rather instead of state court, but no citizen will lose his or her right to bring a case."
The bill now goes to the House for hearings and debate. Senate bill 5 can be found at http://thomas.loc.gov
Yahoo! News - Senate OKs Limit on Class Action Lawsuits
--
More tomorrow in the Morning Briefing.
Many years ago the Federal Communications Commission mandated television stations convert to digital technology and give up their current analog channels. The FCC did this wiuthout setting any technical standards or wondering how the transition would be funded and how consumers could afford digital capable telvision sets costing thousands of dollars. Just another unfunded federal mandate.
The upsdie of digital broadcasting is high definition television (HDTV) which provides sharper images and digitally enhanced sound. When stations are not broadcasting in HDTV they have the ability to multicast. That is to transmit multiple programming streams. Many stations want to take advantage of multicasting to provide additional local programs, weather and news channels, and revnue for the station.
Unfortunately for those stations using multicasting techniques most of the channels will only be seen by NON cable subscribers. Cable systems only want to carry the "primary" signal of the station whether it is broadcasting in HDTV or multicasting. Therefore, the other channels for cable subscribers are non-existant and tv stations lose millions of dollars on equipment and programming for these channels.
The FCC has joined with the cable companies and refused to rule that cable systems "must carry" all of the channels from local broadcasters. The original "must carry" rule for local stations saved many independent and small public television stations. Now the FCC has turned its back on all television stations which it forced to spend hundreds of millions of dollars to convert to digital broadcasting with no opportunity to EVER make back the investment.
This ruling and others like it is likely to cause the failure of the few remaining independent stations and owners and most small public broadcasting sttaions.
Top Technology News Sponsored by Audi | Reuters.com
--
Using his signature Popemobile, Pope John Paul II left a Rome hosptial today and returned to the Vatican.
Reports say that the Pope has recovered from the respiratory problem that caused him to be rushed to the hospital 10 days ago.
Vatican officials and doctors will assist the Pope in fully recovering from his latest illness to be able to fully participate in Easter ceremonies.
BBC NEWS | Europe | 'Cured' Pope returns to Vatican
--
James Sensenbrenner (R-WI) finally got the bill he wanted. The House passed a bill that would require states to verify the citizenship of applicants for a driver's license. Under the provisions of the bill states may only issues licenses to US citizens or legal immigrants.
Sensenbrenner said, "Today there are over 350 valid drivers license designs issued by the 50 states. We all know it's very difficult for security officials at airports to tell the real ID cards from the counterfeit ones."
The bill moves to the Senate where Republicans want it to be part of a larger immigration reform package.
Yahoo! News - House OKs Citizenship Check for Licenses
--
In what may seem a surprise the Senate passed a bill that would limit class action suits. The bill is part of the President's tort reform package.
Under the legislation, long sought by big business, large multistate class action lawsuits like the ones that have been brought against tobacco companies could no longer be heard in small state courts. These suits would now be filed in the federal court system. Federal judges are often reluctant to certify class action suits.
The bill "is designed to rein in the lawsuit abuses, and it does just that," Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist, R-Tenn. said. "A plaintiff may end up in federal court, yes, rather instead of state court, but no citizen will lose his or her right to bring a case."
The bill now goes to the House for hearings and debate. Senate bill 5 can be found at http://thomas.loc.gov
Yahoo! News - Senate OKs Limit on Class Action Lawsuits
--
More tomorrow in the Morning Briefing.
Morning Briefing - 2.10.05
Good morning . . .
Charles, the Prince of Whales, and his long-time love Camilla Parker Bowles are engaged. The wedding will take place April 8 at Windsor Castle. It will be a civil ceremony.
Parker Bowles title will be Her Royal Highness Duchess of Cornwall. When Chrles becomes king, she will not be Queen Camilla, but the Princess Consort. All very British you know.
Congratulations have been coming into the happy couple since the royal announcement Thursday.
CNN.com - Charles to marry lover Camilla - Feb 10, 2005
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The Eason Jordan controversy is not going away quietly like CNN would like. Jordan made remakrs at the Davos conference that inplied US troops were "targeting" journalists for assasination. Jordan and CNN say that the remarks were backtracked during the conference. Audience members including Barney Frank (D-MA) and Christopher Dodd (D-CT) disagree.
Now the Senate Foreign Relations Committee wants to see the videotape of the event. George Allen (R-VA) says the comments were "outrageous and wrong" and wants to see the videotape of Jordan's comments.
Senator Calls for Release of Comments by CNN News Chief -- 02/10/2005
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Not every member of Congress thinks the President's budget is "dead on arrival." Chuck Grassley (R-IA) one of Bush's harshest Republican critics and chairman of the Senate Finance Committee praised the budget and Bush's efforts to reduce the deficit. Grassley pointed out that during the Clinton Administration many of the programs looking at cuts or elimination received annual increases of 15 percent.
"The country can't sustain that kind of spending, and we need to continue ramping down annual increases in congressional appropriations," said Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), adding that he agrees with Bush's plan to make the 2001 and 2003 tax cuts permanent.
Senate Finance Committee Chair Praises Bush Budget -- 02/07/2005
--
In this week's column, Ann Coulter enters the Ward Churchill debacle. HUMAN EVENTS ONLINE :: The Little Injun that Could by Ann Coulter
--
More in the Afternoon Update.
Charles, the Prince of Whales, and his long-time love Camilla Parker Bowles are engaged. The wedding will take place April 8 at Windsor Castle. It will be a civil ceremony.
Parker Bowles title will be Her Royal Highness Duchess of Cornwall. When Chrles becomes king, she will not be Queen Camilla, but the Princess Consort. All very British you know.
Congratulations have been coming into the happy couple since the royal announcement Thursday.
CNN.com - Charles to marry lover Camilla - Feb 10, 2005
--
The Eason Jordan controversy is not going away quietly like CNN would like. Jordan made remakrs at the Davos conference that inplied US troops were "targeting" journalists for assasination. Jordan and CNN say that the remarks were backtracked during the conference. Audience members including Barney Frank (D-MA) and Christopher Dodd (D-CT) disagree.
Now the Senate Foreign Relations Committee wants to see the videotape of the event. George Allen (R-VA) says the comments were "outrageous and wrong" and wants to see the videotape of Jordan's comments.
Senator Calls for Release of Comments by CNN News Chief -- 02/10/2005
--
Not every member of Congress thinks the President's budget is "dead on arrival." Chuck Grassley (R-IA) one of Bush's harshest Republican critics and chairman of the Senate Finance Committee praised the budget and Bush's efforts to reduce the deficit. Grassley pointed out that during the Clinton Administration many of the programs looking at cuts or elimination received annual increases of 15 percent.
"The country can't sustain that kind of spending, and we need to continue ramping down annual increases in congressional appropriations," said Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), adding that he agrees with Bush's plan to make the 2001 and 2003 tax cuts permanent.
Senate Finance Committee Chair Praises Bush Budget -- 02/07/2005
--
In this week's column, Ann Coulter enters the Ward Churchill debacle. HUMAN EVENTS ONLINE :: The Little Injun that Could by Ann Coulter
--
More in the Afternoon Update.
Wednesday, February 09, 2005
Afternoon Update - 2.9.05
Good Afternoon . . .
Sen. Marc Dayton (D-MN) has announced he will not be seeking re-election in 2006. This will be a seat that Republicans will target for a pick-up in the mid-term election.
Dayton is best known as the only member of Congress who closed his Washington office two weeks before the Holiday Recess. The closure according to Dayton was due to terrorist threats against members of Congress. While most other members saw the same data, Dayton is the only one who decided it would be a good excuse to extend his holiday.
Recently Dayton has joined Democrat attack dog Barbara Boxer (D-CA) in criticizing Bush nominees for Cabinet positions. While other Senators maintained decorum on the Senate floor, Dayton has continual called Condoleeza Rice and Alberto Gonzales liars. Poor form Mr. Dayton, poor form
Yahoo! News - Minn. Democrat Not Seeking Second Term
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Failed presidential candidate John Kerry has donated $1 million dollars to the Democratic National Committee to suuport Howard Dean's grassroots efforts. Kerry made the announcement in a fund-raising email sent to 3 million of his supporters. Don't worry, Kerry did not use any of Teresa's money for this donation. In fact, it's possible that much of it is taxpayer money.
After the campaign Kerry had $15 million left in his campaign fund. After final costs and some other donations to Democratic causes, sources close to the campaign say there is between $8 and 10 million dollars remaining. Kerry will be able to use this money for his 2008 campaign.
Yahoo! News - Kerry Donates $1 Million to DNC
--
A would-be contestant on "The Apprentice" has sued producers of the show for discrimination of handicapped persons.
St. Louis attorney James Schottel, Jr., a quadrapalegic, is seeking an injunction that would prevent producers from requiring candidates be in "good physical condition."
Schottel said that producers provide each contestant with a warning that "you must be in excellent physical and mental health" and "meet all physical and psychological requirements."
Schottel is seeking no monetary award, but believes that the warning represents a viloation of the Americans with Disabilities Act.
My Way News
--
93 year-old Art Linkletter is still active and still politically active. The former TV personality is the National Chairman of the United Seniors Association (USA).
In an intervierwon FoxNews, Linkletter touted the importance of Social Security reform with personal retirement accounts and went on to call the AARP, which opposes President Bush's reform plan, "the largest liberal lobbying group in Washington."
USA is not backing down from Linkletter's statement and is planning a national campaign to support changes in Social Security and point out the liberal tendencies of AARP.
HUMAN EVENTS ONLINE :: Linkletter Claims AARP is Country's Largest Liberal Lobby by Chris Field
--
More tomorrow in the Morning Briefing.
Sen. Marc Dayton (D-MN) has announced he will not be seeking re-election in 2006. This will be a seat that Republicans will target for a pick-up in the mid-term election.
Dayton is best known as the only member of Congress who closed his Washington office two weeks before the Holiday Recess. The closure according to Dayton was due to terrorist threats against members of Congress. While most other members saw the same data, Dayton is the only one who decided it would be a good excuse to extend his holiday.
Recently Dayton has joined Democrat attack dog Barbara Boxer (D-CA) in criticizing Bush nominees for Cabinet positions. While other Senators maintained decorum on the Senate floor, Dayton has continual called Condoleeza Rice and Alberto Gonzales liars. Poor form Mr. Dayton, poor form
Yahoo! News - Minn. Democrat Not Seeking Second Term
--
Failed presidential candidate John Kerry has donated $1 million dollars to the Democratic National Committee to suuport Howard Dean's grassroots efforts. Kerry made the announcement in a fund-raising email sent to 3 million of his supporters. Don't worry, Kerry did not use any of Teresa's money for this donation. In fact, it's possible that much of it is taxpayer money.
After the campaign Kerry had $15 million left in his campaign fund. After final costs and some other donations to Democratic causes, sources close to the campaign say there is between $8 and 10 million dollars remaining. Kerry will be able to use this money for his 2008 campaign.
Yahoo! News - Kerry Donates $1 Million to DNC
--
A would-be contestant on "The Apprentice" has sued producers of the show for discrimination of handicapped persons.
St. Louis attorney James Schottel, Jr., a quadrapalegic, is seeking an injunction that would prevent producers from requiring candidates be in "good physical condition."
Schottel said that producers provide each contestant with a warning that "you must be in excellent physical and mental health" and "meet all physical and psychological requirements."
Schottel is seeking no monetary award, but believes that the warning represents a viloation of the Americans with Disabilities Act.
My Way News
--
93 year-old Art Linkletter is still active and still politically active. The former TV personality is the National Chairman of the United Seniors Association (USA).
In an intervierwon FoxNews, Linkletter touted the importance of Social Security reform with personal retirement accounts and went on to call the AARP, which opposes President Bush's reform plan, "the largest liberal lobbying group in Washington."
USA is not backing down from Linkletter's statement and is planning a national campaign to support changes in Social Security and point out the liberal tendencies of AARP.
HUMAN EVENTS ONLINE :: Linkletter Claims AARP is Country's Largest Liberal Lobby by Chris Field
--
More tomorrow in the Morning Briefing.
Morning Briefing - 2.9.05
Good Morning . . .
A University of Colorado professor who compared 9/11 victims to Nazi war criminals is not apologizing and taking a definat stand against his detractors.
Ward Churchill spoke Tuesday night to an overflow crowd in a university ballroom. The speech continued after Churchill threatened to sue the state supported university if it was canceled.
"I owe no one an apology," Churchill said to a crowd of supporters.
Currently the university's board of regents is considering disciplinary action against the activist professor that could include his dismissal. Governor Bill Owens wants Churchill fired and the state legislatiure has issued a resolution condeming the outspoken professor.
"I do not work for the taxpayers of Colorado, and I don't work for Bill Owens. I work for you," Churchill told the audience.
Well, professor you are only partially correct. Yes, you do not work "directly" for Bill Owens. You DO, however, work for the taxpayers of Colorado. As a State-supported university, your salary, your department, the equipment you use on campus, and your benefits are paid for by the taxpayers of Colorado. And if polls are correct, the taxpayers of Colorado want you to be fired.
My Way News
--
FoxNews Channel was the first "mainstream" media outlet to report on the Eason Jordan controversy. Jordan is the CNN news executive who told a room that included Rep. Barney Frank (D-MA) and several high profile journalists that US troops were targeting US journalists for assasination.
CNN continues to claims that Jordan was taken out of context and later retracted his statement. Witnesses including Frank say that he did not.
--
This is starting out as a slow news day, but there are some interesting items on the Eason Jordan controversy and other topics on TKS on National Review Online. TKS on National Review Online
--
More in the Afternoon Update.
A University of Colorado professor who compared 9/11 victims to Nazi war criminals is not apologizing and taking a definat stand against his detractors.
Ward Churchill spoke Tuesday night to an overflow crowd in a university ballroom. The speech continued after Churchill threatened to sue the state supported university if it was canceled.
"I owe no one an apology," Churchill said to a crowd of supporters.
Currently the university's board of regents is considering disciplinary action against the activist professor that could include his dismissal. Governor Bill Owens wants Churchill fired and the state legislatiure has issued a resolution condeming the outspoken professor.
"I do not work for the taxpayers of Colorado, and I don't work for Bill Owens. I work for you," Churchill told the audience.
Well, professor you are only partially correct. Yes, you do not work "directly" for Bill Owens. You DO, however, work for the taxpayers of Colorado. As a State-supported university, your salary, your department, the equipment you use on campus, and your benefits are paid for by the taxpayers of Colorado. And if polls are correct, the taxpayers of Colorado want you to be fired.
My Way News
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FoxNews Channel was the first "mainstream" media outlet to report on the Eason Jordan controversy. Jordan is the CNN news executive who told a room that included Rep. Barney Frank (D-MA) and several high profile journalists that US troops were targeting US journalists for assasination.
CNN continues to claims that Jordan was taken out of context and later retracted his statement. Witnesses including Frank say that he did not.
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This is starting out as a slow news day, but there are some interesting items on the Eason Jordan controversy and other topics on TKS on National Review Online. TKS on National Review Online
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More in the Afternoon Update.
Tuesday, February 08, 2005
Afternoon Update - 2.8.05
Good Afternoon . . .
I have been having substantial problems with Internet Explorer. It has been doing some stupid, locking up, not opening links and favorites, and just being a pain in the butt. So, I found a copy of Firefox.
So far, it seems to be very stable and not doing crazy stuff. The only downside is that Google does not support Firefox for the Google Toolbar. Still, I would rather have stability.
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The City of Chicago is finally ending a scandal-ridden program. Mayor Richard Daley announced that the hired-truck program is ending. The program that is currently under federal investigation.
The program uses outside contractors for hauling without competitive bids. Daley has directed city officials to find another way to provide the same service.
Daley Cancels Hired-Truck Program
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The jury pool in the Michael Jackson child-molestation trial was told by Judge Rodney Melville not to talk or read about the case.
The jury selection process was postponed until Monday due to a death in the family of one of Jackson's lawyers. Jackson Trial Postponed
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For Congressional Democrats it will be business as usual for debate on the President's budget and proposal to save Social Security.
Democrats plan to obstruct and criticize the President and administration policies while failing to offer a plan or suggestions of their own.
In the State of the Union Address and at various venues across the country, the President said everything is on the table and anyone can offer a suggestion or plan for duscussion.
As usual, the Democrats choose criticism and obstructuion instead of offering a plan or substitute. Attention Democrats, this tactic did not work in the election and it will not work now. Join the party, make suggestions, be a part of the solution not just the problem. Democrats Offer Criticism, but No Plan
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More tomorrow in the Morning Briefing.
I have been having substantial problems with Internet Explorer. It has been doing some stupid, locking up, not opening links and favorites, and just being a pain in the butt. So, I found a copy of Firefox.
So far, it seems to be very stable and not doing crazy stuff. The only downside is that Google does not support Firefox for the Google Toolbar. Still, I would rather have stability.
--
The City of Chicago is finally ending a scandal-ridden program. Mayor Richard Daley announced that the hired-truck program is ending. The program that is currently under federal investigation.
The program uses outside contractors for hauling without competitive bids. Daley has directed city officials to find another way to provide the same service.
Daley Cancels Hired-Truck Program
--
The jury pool in the Michael Jackson child-molestation trial was told by Judge Rodney Melville not to talk or read about the case.
The jury selection process was postponed until Monday due to a death in the family of one of Jackson's lawyers. Jackson Trial Postponed
--
For Congressional Democrats it will be business as usual for debate on the President's budget and proposal to save Social Security.
Democrats plan to obstruct and criticize the President and administration policies while failing to offer a plan or suggestions of their own.
In the State of the Union Address and at various venues across the country, the President said everything is on the table and anyone can offer a suggestion or plan for duscussion.
As usual, the Democrats choose criticism and obstructuion instead of offering a plan or substitute. Attention Democrats, this tactic did not work in the election and it will not work now. Join the party, make suggestions, be a part of the solution not just the problem. Democrats Offer Criticism, but No Plan
--
More tomorrow in the Morning Briefing.
Morning Briefing - 2.8.05
Good morning . . .
There has been a story brewing in the blogsphere since January 28 that has yet to see the light of the mainstream media.
A CNN News executive Eason Jordan made some remarks at a conference that have stirred some controversy. Jordan apparently said that US troops in Iraq have targeted journalists for assassination. According to Jordan 12 US journalists have been killed by US troops. He further said that the US military categorizes the deaths of journalists as "collateral damage."
What Jordan said at that conference which was recorded and there is a tape is not as important as his almost immediate backtracking plus an email sent to some bloggers that Jordan's remarks were taken out of contest. If that is true CNN, give us the tape or acknowledge the story on CNN and show the tape.
As Watergate defendants knew the cover-up is worse than the crime. More on the Jordan story and its aftermath can be found on TKS on National Review Online.
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Reports are surfacing in Rome that Pope John Paul II was minutes from death when he was rushed to a Rome hospital last week. Suffering from the flue with complications from Parkinson's disease, the Pope refused to go to the hospital for several hours while suffering from distressed breathing and coughing fits.
Sources inside the Vatican say that the Pope could have died within ten minutes of his arrival at the hospital.
The current status of the Pope's health shows that he is recovering and getting stringer, but will remain in the hospital for a few more days.
Meanwhile in the Vatican there is open talk about the Pope's resigning. The Vatican Secretary of State Angelo Cardinal Sodano said that a decision to resign should be "left to the conscience of the Pope." He added, "If there is one man who knows what to do. It is he." Cardinal Sodano, 77, is one of the potential successors.
In the past the Pope has refused to mention resignation saying, "Did Christ come down from the Cross?"
Times Online - World
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The President's budget is receiving criticism from all sides and the budget debate will be heating up in the days, weeks, and months to come.
One of the President's promises is to increase Homeland Security. A portion of the budget shows a "substantial" increase in the homeland security fee paid by the airlines. The proposed budget shows it going from $3 to $5.50 per flight segment.
With several airlines in bankruptcy and others involved in a price war, industry experts say it will be an additional burden on the airline industry. So what! If that extra $3 per trip is going to protect me from a terrorist attack, I'll pay it. In fact knowing the airlines, every passenger will be paying the extra fee not the airlines.
Airlines protest hike in security fee in proposed Bush budget
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Statements made recently by John Kerry demonstrate that he is still unable or unwilling to take responsibility for his loss in the November election.
He says that unfair criticism of Teresa Heinz-Kerry and Osama Bin Laden are the causes for his loss.
Perhaps, senator, you can contribute your loss to your lack of candor, lack of policy, and that the American voter did not trust you with the security of the country.
Yahoo! News - Kerry Defends Wife, Pins Loss on Osama
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More in the Afternoon Update.
There has been a story brewing in the blogsphere since January 28 that has yet to see the light of the mainstream media.
A CNN News executive Eason Jordan made some remarks at a conference that have stirred some controversy. Jordan apparently said that US troops in Iraq have targeted journalists for assassination. According to Jordan 12 US journalists have been killed by US troops. He further said that the US military categorizes the deaths of journalists as "collateral damage."
What Jordan said at that conference which was recorded and there is a tape is not as important as his almost immediate backtracking plus an email sent to some bloggers that Jordan's remarks were taken out of contest. If that is true CNN, give us the tape or acknowledge the story on CNN and show the tape.
As Watergate defendants knew the cover-up is worse than the crime. More on the Jordan story and its aftermath can be found on TKS on National Review Online.
--
Reports are surfacing in Rome that Pope John Paul II was minutes from death when he was rushed to a Rome hospital last week. Suffering from the flue with complications from Parkinson's disease, the Pope refused to go to the hospital for several hours while suffering from distressed breathing and coughing fits.
Sources inside the Vatican say that the Pope could have died within ten minutes of his arrival at the hospital.
The current status of the Pope's health shows that he is recovering and getting stringer, but will remain in the hospital for a few more days.
Meanwhile in the Vatican there is open talk about the Pope's resigning. The Vatican Secretary of State Angelo Cardinal Sodano said that a decision to resign should be "left to the conscience of the Pope." He added, "If there is one man who knows what to do. It is he." Cardinal Sodano, 77, is one of the potential successors.
In the past the Pope has refused to mention resignation saying, "Did Christ come down from the Cross?"
Times Online - World
--
The President's budget is receiving criticism from all sides and the budget debate will be heating up in the days, weeks, and months to come.
One of the President's promises is to increase Homeland Security. A portion of the budget shows a "substantial" increase in the homeland security fee paid by the airlines. The proposed budget shows it going from $3 to $5.50 per flight segment.
With several airlines in bankruptcy and others involved in a price war, industry experts say it will be an additional burden on the airline industry. So what! If that extra $3 per trip is going to protect me from a terrorist attack, I'll pay it. In fact knowing the airlines, every passenger will be paying the extra fee not the airlines.
Airlines protest hike in security fee in proposed Bush budget
--
Statements made recently by John Kerry demonstrate that he is still unable or unwilling to take responsibility for his loss in the November election.
He says that unfair criticism of Teresa Heinz-Kerry and Osama Bin Laden are the causes for his loss.
Perhaps, senator, you can contribute your loss to your lack of candor, lack of policy, and that the American voter did not trust you with the security of the country.
Yahoo! News - Kerry Defends Wife, Pins Loss on Osama
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More in the Afternoon Update.
Monday, February 07, 2005
Afternoon Update - 2.7.05
Good Afternoon . .
Democrats are not the only ones worried about the Bush budget. Republicans are worried about the record deficit, as well as, how to cut or eliminate popular "pork" projects that have been part of the budget for many years.
Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist (R-TN) summed it up, "It's going to be a tough budget year." He's right unless he can rein in Senate Republicans and eliminate Democrat whining during debates. Yahoo! News - Anxious over deficit, GOP lawmakers eye budget cuts
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It is done just a matter of time. The last opponent to former Vermont Governor Howard Dean has withdrawn from the race for Chair of the Democratic National Committee (DNC).
Tim Roemer a former Congressman from Indiana and a member of the 9/11 Commission has withdrawn his name from consideration for the post. Roemer did issue a warning to Democrats for upcoming elections. He said Democrats must be more inclusive in their outreach to fast-growing parts of the country.
"It's not about 60,000 votes in Ohio," Roemer said, "It's about losing 97 of the 100 fastest growing counties in the country."
So, the way is clear for the failed presidential candidate and anti-war screamer to become chair of the DNC. The DNC vote is scheduled for February 12.
By the way, Dean becoming chair of the DNC is the Republicans dream-come-true.
CNN.com - Roemer withdraws from "DNC chair" race - Feb 7, 2005
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During the State of the Union Address many Democrats decided that cat-calls, booing, and hissing were appropriate. It is obvious that many of the Dems have not gotten over the last two elections and are acting out.
I'm sure that many of the "boo birds" also hustled to the aisle to shake President Bush's hand as he left the chamber.
Democrats here is another thing to be ashamed of.
Republicans criticize Dems for hissing at speech
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Last month the Supreme Court rules that sentencing guidelines could only be advisory and not mandatory. This enabled Congress to look at passing mandatory sentences that were Constitutional.
The American Bar Association issued today a proposal that will ask Congress to stop and proposed legislation. The largest association of attorneys wants to give the federal court system a year to sort out a new system. Lawmakers could then evaluate whether changes should be made to ensure that punishment is headed out equally across the country.
Isn't that what the Supreme Court wants Congress to do? It looks like a case of the "foxes guarding the hen house" to me.
Yahoo! News - Lawyers May Seek Sentencing Reform Delay
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More tomorrow in the Morning Briefing.
Democrats are not the only ones worried about the Bush budget. Republicans are worried about the record deficit, as well as, how to cut or eliminate popular "pork" projects that have been part of the budget for many years.
Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist (R-TN) summed it up, "It's going to be a tough budget year." He's right unless he can rein in Senate Republicans and eliminate Democrat whining during debates. Yahoo! News - Anxious over deficit, GOP lawmakers eye budget cuts
--
It is done just a matter of time. The last opponent to former Vermont Governor Howard Dean has withdrawn from the race for Chair of the Democratic National Committee (DNC).
Tim Roemer a former Congressman from Indiana and a member of the 9/11 Commission has withdrawn his name from consideration for the post. Roemer did issue a warning to Democrats for upcoming elections. He said Democrats must be more inclusive in their outreach to fast-growing parts of the country.
"It's not about 60,000 votes in Ohio," Roemer said, "It's about losing 97 of the 100 fastest growing counties in the country."
So, the way is clear for the failed presidential candidate and anti-war screamer to become chair of the DNC. The DNC vote is scheduled for February 12.
By the way, Dean becoming chair of the DNC is the Republicans dream-come-true.
CNN.com - Roemer withdraws from "DNC chair" race - Feb 7, 2005
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During the State of the Union Address many Democrats decided that cat-calls, booing, and hissing were appropriate. It is obvious that many of the Dems have not gotten over the last two elections and are acting out.
I'm sure that many of the "boo birds" also hustled to the aisle to shake President Bush's hand as he left the chamber.
Democrats here is another thing to be ashamed of.
Republicans criticize Dems for hissing at speech
--
Last month the Supreme Court rules that sentencing guidelines could only be advisory and not mandatory. This enabled Congress to look at passing mandatory sentences that were Constitutional.
The American Bar Association issued today a proposal that will ask Congress to stop and proposed legislation. The largest association of attorneys wants to give the federal court system a year to sort out a new system. Lawmakers could then evaluate whether changes should be made to ensure that punishment is headed out equally across the country.
Isn't that what the Supreme Court wants Congress to do? It looks like a case of the "foxes guarding the hen house" to me.
Yahoo! News - Lawyers May Seek Sentencing Reform Delay
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More tomorrow in the Morning Briefing.
Morning Briefing - 2.7.05
Good morning . . .
The White House sent its 2006 budget to Capitol Hill today. The $2.57 trillion budget is the tightest in the Bush Presidency. Discretionary spending will only rise 2.1% under the current rate of inflation. There will some spending increases in defense and homeland security, but domestic spending will be cut in a variety of areas.
In the State of the Union address the President said that he will look for programs that some programs would be cut or eliminated. Domestic funding is the primary area for "pork" projects for lobbyists interests and Congressional projects that only spend taxpayer dollars and provide no real benefit to anyone but the Congressman or Senator seeking re-election.
If the President is serious about controlling spending he could save $250 million by cutting funding for public broadcasting.
Bush targets domestic spending in '06 - Aerospace - Financial - Industrial, Diversified - Manufacturing - Financial Services - Industrial Products & Services - Bond Market - Economy
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No sooner is the ink dry on the President's budget than House Democrat Leader Nancy Pelois criticizes it for being "fiscally irrepsonsible, morally irresponsible, and a failure of leadership." Unfortunately for Ms Pelosi her leadership in the House has cost the Democrats seats and will likely do so in 2006.
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In just three months the election cycle has come full circle. There was a presidential campaign, a presidential election, an inauguration, and a State of the Union Address. What's next - - the start of the 2008 Presidential election.
Over the past few weeks several potential candidates have been testing the waters for support and funding.
Some of the likely Democrat contenders include failed presidential nominee John Kerry who as usual cannot take a stand on the issue, failed VP candidate John Edwards, Hillary Clinton, Barbara Boxer (D-CA), Iowa Gov Tom Vislic, Sen. Joe Biden, and New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson.
The list is, so far, shorter on the Republican side. Possible candidates are Sen. John McCain, Sen Bill Frist, Sen. George Allen, New York Gov George Pataki, and former NYC mayor Rudy Giuliani. Absent from the list is VP Dick Cheney who aid on the Sunday news programs that he was not interested in the job. Well, stranger things have happened.
Two other governors have been mentioned as possible candidates, California Gov Arnold Schwarzenegger who would need a constitutional amendment in order to run and Florida Gov. Jeb Bush who like Cheney said he is not interested in 2008.
Yahoo! News - 2008 Presidential Hopefuls Test Waters
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Here's a story not to be believed. Last week CNN, FoxNews, and MSNBC were all waiting outside the Santa Maria Courthouse to get a glimpse of accused child molester Michael Jackson returning from lunch. Yet, the networks all claim that the Jackson trial will not become a national obsession like the OJ Simpson trial.
"It's certainly not going to dominate our air, not the way that O.J. did and not when you think of all the other things that we're dealing with as a nation, like terrorism, the state of the war, the tsunami," said Mark Effron, vice president of news and daytime programming at MSNBC.
If that is the case, why Mr. Effrom were all the cameras outside the Courthouse just waiting for a glimpse of Jackson?
The networks say that without cameras in the courtroom there will not be the chance for viewers and reporters to become engrossed in the action.
Yahoo! News - Networks Pledge Restraint in Jackson Case
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More in the Afternoon Update.
The White House sent its 2006 budget to Capitol Hill today. The $2.57 trillion budget is the tightest in the Bush Presidency. Discretionary spending will only rise 2.1% under the current rate of inflation. There will some spending increases in defense and homeland security, but domestic spending will be cut in a variety of areas.
In the State of the Union address the President said that he will look for programs that some programs would be cut or eliminated. Domestic funding is the primary area for "pork" projects for lobbyists interests and Congressional projects that only spend taxpayer dollars and provide no real benefit to anyone but the Congressman or Senator seeking re-election.
If the President is serious about controlling spending he could save $250 million by cutting funding for public broadcasting.
Bush targets domestic spending in '06 - Aerospace - Financial - Industrial, Diversified - Manufacturing - Financial Services - Industrial Products & Services - Bond Market - Economy
--
No sooner is the ink dry on the President's budget than House Democrat Leader Nancy Pelois criticizes it for being "fiscally irrepsonsible, morally irresponsible, and a failure of leadership." Unfortunately for Ms Pelosi her leadership in the House has cost the Democrats seats and will likely do so in 2006.
--
In just three months the election cycle has come full circle. There was a presidential campaign, a presidential election, an inauguration, and a State of the Union Address. What's next - - the start of the 2008 Presidential election.
Over the past few weeks several potential candidates have been testing the waters for support and funding.
Some of the likely Democrat contenders include failed presidential nominee John Kerry who as usual cannot take a stand on the issue, failed VP candidate John Edwards, Hillary Clinton, Barbara Boxer (D-CA), Iowa Gov Tom Vislic, Sen. Joe Biden, and New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson.
The list is, so far, shorter on the Republican side. Possible candidates are Sen. John McCain, Sen Bill Frist, Sen. George Allen, New York Gov George Pataki, and former NYC mayor Rudy Giuliani. Absent from the list is VP Dick Cheney who aid on the Sunday news programs that he was not interested in the job. Well, stranger things have happened.
Two other governors have been mentioned as possible candidates, California Gov Arnold Schwarzenegger who would need a constitutional amendment in order to run and Florida Gov. Jeb Bush who like Cheney said he is not interested in 2008.
Yahoo! News - 2008 Presidential Hopefuls Test Waters
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Here's a story not to be believed. Last week CNN, FoxNews, and MSNBC were all waiting outside the Santa Maria Courthouse to get a glimpse of accused child molester Michael Jackson returning from lunch. Yet, the networks all claim that the Jackson trial will not become a national obsession like the OJ Simpson trial.
"It's certainly not going to dominate our air, not the way that O.J. did and not when you think of all the other things that we're dealing with as a nation, like terrorism, the state of the war, the tsunami," said Mark Effron, vice president of news and daytime programming at MSNBC.
If that is the case, why Mr. Effrom were all the cameras outside the Courthouse just waiting for a glimpse of Jackson?
The networks say that without cameras in the courtroom there will not be the chance for viewers and reporters to become engrossed in the action.
Yahoo! News - Networks Pledge Restraint in Jackson Case
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More in the Afternoon Update.
Sunday, February 06, 2005
Weekend Briefing - 2.6.05
Friday was such a slow news day that there was little of any consequence for Check This Out!
While this weekend is cluttered with Super Bowl hype, there are some news items that slipped through.
Feeling better, but locking frail Pope John Paul II gave the Angelius Blessing from the window of his hospital room in Rome. The 84 year-old Pontiff was admitted to the hospital last week after suffering respiratory complications from the flu.
Although he is recovering and is expected to be released from the hospital this week, the Pope's Parkinson's disease is complicating his recovery.
Vatican officials say it is unlikely that the Poe will preside at Ash Wednesday ceremonies.
The New York Times > International > Europe > Pope Delivers Blessing from Hospital Window
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The President's budget will be sent to Capitol Hill Monday amidst speculation that hundreds of government programs will be curtailed or cut altogether.
The $2.5 trillion budget will begin the campaign promise to cit the deficit in half by 2009. That pledge was repeated during last week's State of the Union address.
The budget submission to Congress will set off months of debate with Congressional leaders and other trying to save "pork" projects while criticizing the Administration for cutting anything. If Congress fails to control spending, will the President finally use his veto power to keep spending in line?
Yahoo! News - Bush Proposes Cuts to Scores of Programs
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Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia is doing little to stop rumors of his pending elevation to Chief Justice.
Scalia is one of the White House favorites that could be nominated when current Chief Justice William H. Rehnquist decides to retire. Several Democrats have already said that they would support Scalia for the Chief Justice position.
The sharp-tongued jurist is known as a legal and constitutional scholar, but his personality often rubs legislatures and administration officials the wrong way. Nevertheless, Scalia would be the best nominee for Chief Justice if the Bush White House chooses to promote from within.
Yahoo! News - Scalia Won't Discourage Chief Justice Talk
Yahoo! News - Bio Box Antonin Scalia
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A University of Colorado professor who compared 9/11 victims with Nazis refuses to apologize for his remarks.
Ward Churchill said to Paula Zahn, "I don't believe I owe an apology." Churchill aid that his essay was a "gut reaction" to the terrorist attacks.
The Board of Regents of the University of Colorado are currently reviewing Churchill's record that could lead to dismissal of the tenured professor.
The controversy began when a student journalist at Hamilton College in upstate New York discovered the essay as part of a background story in anticipation of Churchill's appearance at the college. After the story broke Hamilton College along with other colleges and universities across the country have canceled appearances by Churchill.
Churchill who claims to be Native American resigned as the chair of his department at Colorado. Whether he remains on the faculty is up to the school's Board of Regents.
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A Manhattan judge rules Friday that the state's Domestic Relations Law which bans gay marriage is unconstitutional. This leaves the door open for same sex couples to be married legally in the Empire State.
New York City mayor Michael Bloomberg says that the city will appeal the ruling to the New York Curt of Appeals. This essential closes the door on gay marriage in the city until a higher court ruling.
Bloomberg who supports gay marriage said that the city will "expedite the appeal to the state's highest court so that people will have a right once and for all to know where they stand." This was the first time, according to aides, that the mayor has stated his position so clearly.
The New York Times > New York Region > City to Appeal Move Backing Gay Marriage
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More tomorrow in the Morning Briefing.
While this weekend is cluttered with Super Bowl hype, there are some news items that slipped through.
Feeling better, but locking frail Pope John Paul II gave the Angelius Blessing from the window of his hospital room in Rome. The 84 year-old Pontiff was admitted to the hospital last week after suffering respiratory complications from the flu.
Although he is recovering and is expected to be released from the hospital this week, the Pope's Parkinson's disease is complicating his recovery.
Vatican officials say it is unlikely that the Poe will preside at Ash Wednesday ceremonies.
The New York Times > International > Europe > Pope Delivers Blessing from Hospital Window
--
The President's budget will be sent to Capitol Hill Monday amidst speculation that hundreds of government programs will be curtailed or cut altogether.
The $2.5 trillion budget will begin the campaign promise to cit the deficit in half by 2009. That pledge was repeated during last week's State of the Union address.
The budget submission to Congress will set off months of debate with Congressional leaders and other trying to save "pork" projects while criticizing the Administration for cutting anything. If Congress fails to control spending, will the President finally use his veto power to keep spending in line?
Yahoo! News - Bush Proposes Cuts to Scores of Programs
--
Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia is doing little to stop rumors of his pending elevation to Chief Justice.
Scalia is one of the White House favorites that could be nominated when current Chief Justice William H. Rehnquist decides to retire. Several Democrats have already said that they would support Scalia for the Chief Justice position.
The sharp-tongued jurist is known as a legal and constitutional scholar, but his personality often rubs legislatures and administration officials the wrong way. Nevertheless, Scalia would be the best nominee for Chief Justice if the Bush White House chooses to promote from within.
Yahoo! News - Scalia Won't Discourage Chief Justice Talk
Yahoo! News - Bio Box Antonin Scalia
--
A University of Colorado professor who compared 9/11 victims with Nazis refuses to apologize for his remarks.
Ward Churchill said to Paula Zahn, "I don't believe I owe an apology." Churchill aid that his essay was a "gut reaction" to the terrorist attacks.
The Board of Regents of the University of Colorado are currently reviewing Churchill's record that could lead to dismissal of the tenured professor.
The controversy began when a student journalist at Hamilton College in upstate New York discovered the essay as part of a background story in anticipation of Churchill's appearance at the college. After the story broke Hamilton College along with other colleges and universities across the country have canceled appearances by Churchill.
Churchill who claims to be Native American resigned as the chair of his department at Colorado. Whether he remains on the faculty is up to the school's Board of Regents.
--
A Manhattan judge rules Friday that the state's Domestic Relations Law which bans gay marriage is unconstitutional. This leaves the door open for same sex couples to be married legally in the Empire State.
New York City mayor Michael Bloomberg says that the city will appeal the ruling to the New York Curt of Appeals. This essential closes the door on gay marriage in the city until a higher court ruling.
Bloomberg who supports gay marriage said that the city will "expedite the appeal to the state's highest court so that people will have a right once and for all to know where they stand." This was the first time, according to aides, that the mayor has stated his position so clearly.
The New York Times > New York Region > City to Appeal Move Backing Gay Marriage
--
More tomorrow in the Morning Briefing.
Thursday, February 03, 2005
Afternoon Update - 2.3.05
Good Afternoon . . .
The President has hit the road to explain his proposals outlined in the State of the Union address. The President is visiting 5 states including North Dakota and Nebraska.
Noting the response from Democrats the President challenged Congress to "put partisanship aside and focus on saving Social Security."
Social Security reform is at the heart of the President's speech but he also touched on other issues including a constitutional amendment defining marriage, making the tax cuts permanent, and continued support for troops in Iraq and the forming government in Iraq.
Democrat congressional leaders say that they would work with the President, but any changes in Social Security will not survive the legislative process. Yahoo! News - Bush Starts to Sell Social Security Plan
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The debate continues in the Senate over the nomination of Alberto Gonzales as Attorney General. While most agree he will be confirmed later today, Senate Democrats have taken the opportunity to vilify Gonzales as the architect of administration policies that led to prisoner abuse at Guantanamo and Iraq.
The New York Times > Washington > Senate Expected to Confirm Gonzales Today
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Some interesting items from TKS on National Review Online. TKS on National Review Online
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Here is Ann Coulter's weekly column. She is beginning to make sense again. HUMAN EVENTS ONLINE :: Iraq the Vote by Ann Coulter
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Human Events Online has several interesting articles of the State of the Union address including a Fact Check of the Democratic response. HUMAN EVENTS ONLINE - Conservative News, Views & Books
More tomorrow in the Morning Briefing.
The President has hit the road to explain his proposals outlined in the State of the Union address. The President is visiting 5 states including North Dakota and Nebraska.
Noting the response from Democrats the President challenged Congress to "put partisanship aside and focus on saving Social Security."
Social Security reform is at the heart of the President's speech but he also touched on other issues including a constitutional amendment defining marriage, making the tax cuts permanent, and continued support for troops in Iraq and the forming government in Iraq.
Democrat congressional leaders say that they would work with the President, but any changes in Social Security will not survive the legislative process. Yahoo! News - Bush Starts to Sell Social Security Plan
--
The debate continues in the Senate over the nomination of Alberto Gonzales as Attorney General. While most agree he will be confirmed later today, Senate Democrats have taken the opportunity to vilify Gonzales as the architect of administration policies that led to prisoner abuse at Guantanamo and Iraq.
The New York Times > Washington > Senate Expected to Confirm Gonzales Today
--
Some interesting items from TKS on National Review Online. TKS on National Review Online
--
Here is Ann Coulter's weekly column. She is beginning to make sense again. HUMAN EVENTS ONLINE :: Iraq the Vote by Ann Coulter
--
Human Events Online has several interesting articles of the State of the Union address including a Fact Check of the Democratic response. HUMAN EVENTS ONLINE - Conservative News, Views & Books
More tomorrow in the Morning Briefing.
Morning Briefing - 2.3.05
Good morning . . .
The talk of the day is the State of the Union address. As expected the President's speech was well received by supporters of the administration and, probably, some hangers-on, and poorly received by liberal, Democrats, and the far-far left folks at MoveOn.org.
Surprisingly CBS reporters gave the President a fairly balanced review of the President's speech. MSNBC's Chris Matthews and Ron Reagan said that the 'hug" was planned as a PR tool to bolster the Presidents ill-conceived Social Security plan and sagging approval numbers. Because so few people watch MSNBC this criticism was not heard by many.
The Democratic response by Harry Reid (d-NV) and Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) was as expected. There was nothing but harsh and unfounded criticism of the President's speech and its proposals. There was nothing from the Democrats that offered an alternative plan or support for anything. Reid said that he has "45 Senators" who will "never" vote for any changes to Social Security. That is short-sighted and out of touch with the American voters.
I will say this once again. In the last election and for a few elections before, the Democrats have been losing power in the Congress, in the White House,in several statehouses and governor's chairs. The attitude expressed by Pelosi and Reid demonstrate why and who is responsible for this failure. The unwillingness to compromise or discuss change will hurt the Democrats badly in the future. It is possible and now appears probable that the current course set by Reid and Pelosi will result in further losses in Congress. It is possible that the 2006 mid-term election will give the Republicans in the Senate the 60 seats needed to shut down the obstructionists. Increases in the House could make the Democrats seem like yapping dogs with no power and no prospects of power.
The Democratic response to the President's speech could be the beginning of the end for a viable, electable political party. Even Howard Dean as DNC chair would not help the Democrats regain power.
My Way News
Yahoo! News - Democrats Hit Bush on Iraq, Soc. Security
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No sooner had Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) described US forces in Iraq as an "occupying force" Democrats were trying to soften her words with spin that just will not work.
Rep. Shelia Jackson Lee (D-TX) said it was not a "harsh term."
Lee said that the term really means collaborators with the Iraqi people. No, I don not think so. I think Pelosi meant what she said.
Congresswoman Attempts to Redefine the Phrase 'Occupying Force' -- 02/03/2005
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Senator Robert Byrd (D-WV) is planning to run for a ninth term in the US Senate. Byrd, first elected in 1958, is talking with Democrat fundraising about the upcoming campaign. Byrd had no comment, but a spokesman for the former Klu Klux Klan member said that he will run.
If elected, which is likely, Byrd will surpass the late Strom Thurman for years in the Senate. Thurman served 47 years. At the end of a ninth term, Byrd will have served for 52 years.
Byrd, 87, may try for record
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More in the Afternoon Update.
The talk of the day is the State of the Union address. As expected the President's speech was well received by supporters of the administration and, probably, some hangers-on, and poorly received by liberal, Democrats, and the far-far left folks at MoveOn.org.
Surprisingly CBS reporters gave the President a fairly balanced review of the President's speech. MSNBC's Chris Matthews and Ron Reagan said that the 'hug" was planned as a PR tool to bolster the Presidents ill-conceived Social Security plan and sagging approval numbers. Because so few people watch MSNBC this criticism was not heard by many.
The Democratic response by Harry Reid (d-NV) and Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) was as expected. There was nothing but harsh and unfounded criticism of the President's speech and its proposals. There was nothing from the Democrats that offered an alternative plan or support for anything. Reid said that he has "45 Senators" who will "never" vote for any changes to Social Security. That is short-sighted and out of touch with the American voters.
I will say this once again. In the last election and for a few elections before, the Democrats have been losing power in the Congress, in the White House,in several statehouses and governor's chairs. The attitude expressed by Pelosi and Reid demonstrate why and who is responsible for this failure. The unwillingness to compromise or discuss change will hurt the Democrats badly in the future. It is possible and now appears probable that the current course set by Reid and Pelosi will result in further losses in Congress. It is possible that the 2006 mid-term election will give the Republicans in the Senate the 60 seats needed to shut down the obstructionists. Increases in the House could make the Democrats seem like yapping dogs with no power and no prospects of power.
The Democratic response to the President's speech could be the beginning of the end for a viable, electable political party. Even Howard Dean as DNC chair would not help the Democrats regain power.
My Way News
Yahoo! News - Democrats Hit Bush on Iraq, Soc. Security
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No sooner had Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) described US forces in Iraq as an "occupying force" Democrats were trying to soften her words with spin that just will not work.
Rep. Shelia Jackson Lee (D-TX) said it was not a "harsh term."
Lee said that the term really means collaborators with the Iraqi people. No, I don not think so. I think Pelosi meant what she said.
Congresswoman Attempts to Redefine the Phrase 'Occupying Force' -- 02/03/2005
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Senator Robert Byrd (D-WV) is planning to run for a ninth term in the US Senate. Byrd, first elected in 1958, is talking with Democrat fundraising about the upcoming campaign. Byrd had no comment, but a spokesman for the former Klu Klux Klan member said that he will run.
If elected, which is likely, Byrd will surpass the late Strom Thurman for years in the Senate. Thurman served 47 years. At the end of a ninth term, Byrd will have served for 52 years.
Byrd, 87, may try for record
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More in the Afternoon Update.
Wednesday, February 02, 2005
Evening Update - The State of the Union - 2.2.05
Good evening . . .
The President's State of the Union address was well reasoned and set forth and ambitious but attainable agenda Congress.
The two highlights of the speech were the President's call for Congressional fiscal responsibility and the overhaul of the Social Security System.
The President said that the budget he sends to Congress will see increases lower than the rate of inflation and that "hundreds" of programs that are not working or are fiscally irresponsible are not included. He said that Congress had the responsibility to make sure that they follow through by passing spending bills that reflect the budget. While not said, the President may veto bills that do not conform with his budget proposals. To date the President has not vetoed any spending bill, but there is always the possibility. You can tell from the President's speech that he will be using his second term to get the country's fiscal house in order and will use the "political capital" gained during the election to do so.
The most ambitious part of the speech and agenda is the reform of Social Security. This part of the speech was well reasoned and thoughtful. The framework the President presented demonstrated that the need is now and to wait for Social Security to collapse is unacceptable.
The framework for Congressional action seemed to be reasonable and workable. It demonstrates that all proposals will be considered and that all aspects of the system are on the table.
Even before the speech Democrats in the House and the Senate said that any proposal to change Social Security is "dead on arrival." How any Democrat could oppose a reform of the system to make it more viable and sound is beyond me. The proposal made by the President targets younger workers who will be voting in future elections. If the Democrats obstruct or block Social Security reform, they will feel it in future elections. Democrats should eagerly jump on the Social Security reform bandwagon and assure victory. Frankly, the system is broke, it will go bankrupt, and failing to reform it is ridiculous.
The remainder of the speech was on other domestic issues, Iraq, and Homeland Security. There was little new in these areas that the President hasn't proposed before.
All in all a good speech that will cause harsh and partisan criticism from backward think liberals and the Democratic leadership.
More tomorrow in the Morning Briefing.
The President's State of the Union address was well reasoned and set forth and ambitious but attainable agenda Congress.
The two highlights of the speech were the President's call for Congressional fiscal responsibility and the overhaul of the Social Security System.
The President said that the budget he sends to Congress will see increases lower than the rate of inflation and that "hundreds" of programs that are not working or are fiscally irresponsible are not included. He said that Congress had the responsibility to make sure that they follow through by passing spending bills that reflect the budget. While not said, the President may veto bills that do not conform with his budget proposals. To date the President has not vetoed any spending bill, but there is always the possibility. You can tell from the President's speech that he will be using his second term to get the country's fiscal house in order and will use the "political capital" gained during the election to do so.
The most ambitious part of the speech and agenda is the reform of Social Security. This part of the speech was well reasoned and thoughtful. The framework the President presented demonstrated that the need is now and to wait for Social Security to collapse is unacceptable.
The framework for Congressional action seemed to be reasonable and workable. It demonstrates that all proposals will be considered and that all aspects of the system are on the table.
Even before the speech Democrats in the House and the Senate said that any proposal to change Social Security is "dead on arrival." How any Democrat could oppose a reform of the system to make it more viable and sound is beyond me. The proposal made by the President targets younger workers who will be voting in future elections. If the Democrats obstruct or block Social Security reform, they will feel it in future elections. Democrats should eagerly jump on the Social Security reform bandwagon and assure victory. Frankly, the system is broke, it will go bankrupt, and failing to reform it is ridiculous.
The remainder of the speech was on other domestic issues, Iraq, and Homeland Security. There was little new in these areas that the President hasn't proposed before.
All in all a good speech that will cause harsh and partisan criticism from backward think liberals and the Democratic leadership.
More tomorrow in the Morning Briefing.
Afternoon Update - 2.2.05
Good Afternoon . . .
The Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee began hearings for Judge Michael Chertoff today. Chertoff is the President's nominee as Secretary of Homeland Security.
Several Democrats led by Carl Levin (D-MI) asked pointed and hypothetical questions about prisoner abuse which Chertoff said he would not be able to answer.
Chertoff who headed the criminal division at the Justice Department is expected to be confirmed easily.
Guardian Unlimited | World Latest | Chertoff Pledges to Weigh Civil Liberties
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A successor to Dan Rather has been named although it is an interim choice.
CBS Washington correspondent Bob Schieffer is almost certain to be ib the anchor chair beginning March 10. Schieffer will be able to continue the left-leaning broadcast exemplified by Rather.
Schieffer's elevation will be short-lived as CBS News and CBS President Leslie Moonves try to reshape the 'Evening News' to attract more viewers, especially young viewers. The 'CBS Evening News' has been mired in third place or lower in the ratings for years.
At the Television Critics Association meeting Moonves told reporters about possibilities for the 'Evening News' although none really exist. CBS News President Andrew Heyward who escaped the axe at CBS News has yet to approach Moonves with any suggestion for updating the "antiquated" format. Heyward is not known for cutting edge production or ideas, he is known for cutting budgets and personnel costs.
Yahoo! News - Schieffer set to fill Rather's CBS seat
Yahoo! News - Schieffer set to fill Rather's CBS seat
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Pope John Paul remains hospitalized in stable condition follow treatment for respiratory problems Tuesday.
A Vatican spokesman said the Pope will remain hospitalized for a few days and continue treatment.
The Pope's Parkinson's disease and other maladies will slow his recovery from the flu and this latest incident. My Way News
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Although the President has yet to deliver the State of the Union address, Democrats are criticizing the speech and its policies. As is typical of the Democrats they are offering criticism but no alternatives to the President's plans.
Following the President's speech House Minority Leader and far-left liberal Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) will deliver a televised response. Yahoo! News - Dems Criticize Bush on State of the Union
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The Public Broadcasting claim to fame is to take more tax dollars than it deserves and spend it on liberal leaning programming. While PBS recently censored a partially nude scene from a dramatic program (bought from HBO), it has decided that lesbianism is an appropriate topic for children's programming.
An upcoming episode of 'Postcards From Buster' take young viewers to Vermont to meet a lesbian couple. Appropriate . No.
The new Secretary of Education has denounced the episode and PBS for using taxpayer dollars to promote a homosexual lifestyle. PBS said it would not distribute the episode, but 18 PBS stations, including WGBH, WNET, and KQED, say they will air the episode today.
Again, PBS has failed. By funding the episode PBS shows that it is not a good steward of taxpayer dollars. Children's programming on PBS is largely funded by the Department of Education's Ready to Learn program. In the past PBS has received most of the $23 million given to the program. Before Margaret Spellings took over at DoE, the department said that it will spread the funding to other sources. Let's hope that the DoE makes good on its promise and not only spreads funds to other programs, but drops PBS from its funding.
WorldNetDaily: PBS stations to air lesbian-promoting cartoon
Depending on the State of the Union Speech, there could be an Evening Update.
The Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee began hearings for Judge Michael Chertoff today. Chertoff is the President's nominee as Secretary of Homeland Security.
Several Democrats led by Carl Levin (D-MI) asked pointed and hypothetical questions about prisoner abuse which Chertoff said he would not be able to answer.
Chertoff who headed the criminal division at the Justice Department is expected to be confirmed easily.
Guardian Unlimited | World Latest | Chertoff Pledges to Weigh Civil Liberties
--
A successor to Dan Rather has been named although it is an interim choice.
CBS Washington correspondent Bob Schieffer is almost certain to be ib the anchor chair beginning March 10. Schieffer will be able to continue the left-leaning broadcast exemplified by Rather.
Schieffer's elevation will be short-lived as CBS News and CBS President Leslie Moonves try to reshape the 'Evening News' to attract more viewers, especially young viewers. The 'CBS Evening News' has been mired in third place or lower in the ratings for years.
At the Television Critics Association meeting Moonves told reporters about possibilities for the 'Evening News' although none really exist. CBS News President Andrew Heyward who escaped the axe at CBS News has yet to approach Moonves with any suggestion for updating the "antiquated" format. Heyward is not known for cutting edge production or ideas, he is known for cutting budgets and personnel costs.
Yahoo! News - Schieffer set to fill Rather's CBS seat
Yahoo! News - Schieffer set to fill Rather's CBS seat
--
Pope John Paul remains hospitalized in stable condition follow treatment for respiratory problems Tuesday.
A Vatican spokesman said the Pope will remain hospitalized for a few days and continue treatment.
The Pope's Parkinson's disease and other maladies will slow his recovery from the flu and this latest incident. My Way News
--
Although the President has yet to deliver the State of the Union address, Democrats are criticizing the speech and its policies. As is typical of the Democrats they are offering criticism but no alternatives to the President's plans.
Following the President's speech House Minority Leader and far-left liberal Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) will deliver a televised response. Yahoo! News - Dems Criticize Bush on State of the Union
--
The Public Broadcasting claim to fame is to take more tax dollars than it deserves and spend it on liberal leaning programming. While PBS recently censored a partially nude scene from a dramatic program (bought from HBO), it has decided that lesbianism is an appropriate topic for children's programming.
An upcoming episode of 'Postcards From Buster' take young viewers to Vermont to meet a lesbian couple. Appropriate . No.
The new Secretary of Education has denounced the episode and PBS for using taxpayer dollars to promote a homosexual lifestyle. PBS said it would not distribute the episode, but 18 PBS stations, including WGBH, WNET, and KQED, say they will air the episode today.
Again, PBS has failed. By funding the episode PBS shows that it is not a good steward of taxpayer dollars. Children's programming on PBS is largely funded by the Department of Education's Ready to Learn program. In the past PBS has received most of the $23 million given to the program. Before Margaret Spellings took over at DoE, the department said that it will spread the funding to other sources. Let's hope that the DoE makes good on its promise and not only spreads funds to other programs, but drops PBS from its funding.
WorldNetDaily: PBS stations to air lesbian-promoting cartoon
Depending on the State of the Union Speech, there could be an Evening Update.
Morning Briefing - 2.2.05
Happy Groundhog Day . .
Punxatawney Phil saw his shadow early this morning. So, we are in for six more weeks of winter.
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The Vatican is reporting that Pope John Paul II was taken to the hospital Tuesday as a precaution. The Pope suffered a "breathing crisis" as a complication of the flu.
A Vatican spokesman said that the Pope will stay in the hospital for several more days but "there is no cause for alarm. The Pope suffers from Parkinson's disease, as well as, other maladies which may exacerbate his condition.
CANOE -- CNEWS - World: Pope's disease aggravated by infection
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Tonight President George W. Bush will deliver his annual State of the Union Address to a joint session of Congress. The speech will be seen live on the major networks, as well as, most cable news outlets. Personally, I will be watching it on FoxNews Channel.
White House insiders say the speech will concentrate on possible changes to the Social Security system and Iraq. It is certain that the President will note the successful elections in Iraq held last Sunday.
The speech will also touch on several domestic issues and will announce that the budget will be held to a 1% or less increase in spending. If the President is serious about spending limits, it will be necessary for him to veto spending bills that are full of "pork" projects for Congressional leaders and others.
Minority leaders in Congress have begun their criticism of the speech with a "pre-buttal" by Sen. Harry Reid (D-NV) and Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-CA). Both have said that any change in Social Security is dead on arrival. Latest News and Financial Information | Reuters.com
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The Senate has set Thursday for debate on the nomination of Alberto Gonzales for Attorney General. The debate is supposed to be followed by a vote, but Democrats are threatening a filibuster to obstruct the nomination.
"Democrats should understand that filibustering America's first Hispanic nominee for Attorney General is neither good policy nor good politics," said Republican National Committee Communications Director Danny Diaz in a statement on Tuesday.
Like the debate on Secretary of State Condoleeza Rice's confirmation, the debate on Thursday is like to contain partisan attacks on Gonzales and Bush Administration policy in Iraq. Senate Sets Thursday Debate on Gonzales Nomination -- 02/02/2005
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UN Secretary General Kofi Annan announced the appointment of former President Bill Clinton to head UN efforts for tsunami relief. Nothing like one corrupt leader appointing another corrupt leader to head efforts for a corrupt organization.
Clinton was earlier appointed by President Bush to help US fundraising efforts for tsunami relief. The President also appointed his father, George HE Bush, to assist in the efforts.
As reported here and other places, Clinton is eyeing the Secretary General position at the UN when Annan retires in 2006. Clinton will need the approval of the Bush administration to achieve it. It is unlikely that the Bush Administration would want Clinton there, but stranger things have happened at the UN.
There is, however, a movement headed by former Senator Jesse Helms (R-NC) to thwart Clinton's aspirations before they get momentum.
In a letter intended to raise funds for his senatorial library, Helms wrote to supporters, "I'm sure you might agree that putting a left-wing, undisciplined and ethically challenged former President of the United States into a position of such power would be a tragic mistake."
Kofi Annan 'Lands a Whale' With Bill Clinton Appointment -- 02/02/2005
Jesse Helms Warns of Bill Clinton's UN Ambitions -- 02/02/2005
More in the Afternoon Update.
Punxatawney Phil saw his shadow early this morning. So, we are in for six more weeks of winter.
--
The Vatican is reporting that Pope John Paul II was taken to the hospital Tuesday as a precaution. The Pope suffered a "breathing crisis" as a complication of the flu.
A Vatican spokesman said that the Pope will stay in the hospital for several more days but "there is no cause for alarm. The Pope suffers from Parkinson's disease, as well as, other maladies which may exacerbate his condition.
CANOE -- CNEWS - World: Pope's disease aggravated by infection
--
Tonight President George W. Bush will deliver his annual State of the Union Address to a joint session of Congress. The speech will be seen live on the major networks, as well as, most cable news outlets. Personally, I will be watching it on FoxNews Channel.
White House insiders say the speech will concentrate on possible changes to the Social Security system and Iraq. It is certain that the President will note the successful elections in Iraq held last Sunday.
The speech will also touch on several domestic issues and will announce that the budget will be held to a 1% or less increase in spending. If the President is serious about spending limits, it will be necessary for him to veto spending bills that are full of "pork" projects for Congressional leaders and others.
Minority leaders in Congress have begun their criticism of the speech with a "pre-buttal" by Sen. Harry Reid (D-NV) and Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-CA). Both have said that any change in Social Security is dead on arrival. Latest News and Financial Information | Reuters.com
--
The Senate has set Thursday for debate on the nomination of Alberto Gonzales for Attorney General. The debate is supposed to be followed by a vote, but Democrats are threatening a filibuster to obstruct the nomination.
"Democrats should understand that filibustering America's first Hispanic nominee for Attorney General is neither good policy nor good politics," said Republican National Committee Communications Director Danny Diaz in a statement on Tuesday.
Like the debate on Secretary of State Condoleeza Rice's confirmation, the debate on Thursday is like to contain partisan attacks on Gonzales and Bush Administration policy in Iraq. Senate Sets Thursday Debate on Gonzales Nomination -- 02/02/2005
--
UN Secretary General Kofi Annan announced the appointment of former President Bill Clinton to head UN efforts for tsunami relief. Nothing like one corrupt leader appointing another corrupt leader to head efforts for a corrupt organization.
Clinton was earlier appointed by President Bush to help US fundraising efforts for tsunami relief. The President also appointed his father, George HE Bush, to assist in the efforts.
As reported here and other places, Clinton is eyeing the Secretary General position at the UN when Annan retires in 2006. Clinton will need the approval of the Bush administration to achieve it. It is unlikely that the Bush Administration would want Clinton there, but stranger things have happened at the UN.
There is, however, a movement headed by former Senator Jesse Helms (R-NC) to thwart Clinton's aspirations before they get momentum.
In a letter intended to raise funds for his senatorial library, Helms wrote to supporters, "I'm sure you might agree that putting a left-wing, undisciplined and ethically challenged former President of the United States into a position of such power would be a tragic mistake."
Kofi Annan 'Lands a Whale' With Bill Clinton Appointment -- 02/02/2005
Jesse Helms Warns of Bill Clinton's UN Ambitions -- 02/02/2005
More in the Afternoon Update.
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